2016 Poster Presentations Abstracts (Alphabetical)

WAITING ON COMPLETE ABSTRACT

*Alexia Charlot, Christina Miller

Mentor: Wendy Wolfe, Psychology

Buffering the adverse effects of media images through gratitude and media literacy interventions

Recent studies have examined how gratitude-based and media literacy interventions can be used to decrease body dissatisfaction. Geraghty et al., (2010) found that a gratitude intervention worked as well as cognitive restructuring at decreasing body dissatisfaction, and experienced less attrition. Halliwell et al., (2011) observed that viewing Dove’s Self-Esteem Fund Evolution video prevented negative body image effects when young female participants later viewed media images of thin idealized models. A study by Wolfe et al. (2015) found that a personal gratitude intervention was more effective at increasing body appreciation than a general gratitude intervention. The purpose of this study is to compare the relative effectiveness of a personal gratitude and a media literacy intervention, as compared to a control task, at buffering against media-induced increases in body dissatisfaction and negative mood. Female Armstrong State University students will be randomly assigned to the personal gratitude, media literacy, or control task conditions. Participants will complete either a written reflection of their highest-valued personal characteristic (e.g., loyalty), view the Dove Evolution video, or cross out vowels in a neutral article before viewing a high fashion jeans commercial. Afterwards, the groups will be compared on measures of state mood, state body esteem, and trait body satisfaction. Our hypothesis is that participants in the personal gratitude and media literacy conditions will experience more positive state mood and body esteem after viewing the jeans commercial than participants in the control condition, and that this difference will be most pronounced among participants with lower trait body satisfaction.

Savannah Chiarello, John Counts, Joshua Grier, +Esther Medrano

Mentor: Heather Joesting, Biology

Examining phenotypic plasticity in Hydrocotyle bonariensis in response to variations in soil conditions

Ranging from Texas to Virginia, Hydrocotyle bonariensis is an herbaceous plant known for its wide, round leaves and persistent clonal growth. This emergent plant is commonly found in coastal sand dune systems and various inland sites along coastal Georgia, the abiotic conditions (e.g., sunlight exposure, nutrient availability, soil water-holding capacity, and soil type) of which may differ considerably. Phenotypic plasticity is defined as variation in plant morphology and/or physiology in response to variations in the abiotic factors of the environment. The purpose of this study was to explore the potential phenotypic plastic responses in H. bonariensis by comparing plant anatomical and morphological characteristics between plants grown in soil collected from the coastal sand dune habitat (i.e., Tybee Island) and soil collected from an inland site (i.e., Armstrong State University campus). Plant fragments were collected from Tybee Island, Georgia, randomly transplanted into pots of either Tybee Island sand or Armstrong campus soil and maintained under greenhouse conditions. Leaf and petiole samples were collected weekly, and leaf area, leaf thickness, leaf fresh, dry, and water weight, petiole length, petiole thickness, petiole fresh, dry, and water weight, and leaf stomata density were measured. The results showed no statistically significant differences in plant morphology or anatomy between H. bonariensis grown in beach sand versus campus soil, suggesting a possible lack of phenotypic plasticity in H. bonariensis in response to variations in soil conditions.

**Audrionna Childs

Mentor: Jackie Kim, Early Childhood Education

What Is The Effect On Kindergarten Writing Skills When Students Are Tasked With Producing a Writing Sample Each Day?

The purpose for conducting this research is to gauge the effect on kindergarten writing skills when students are tasked with producing one writing piece each day on a given topic during a 30-minute independent writing session. This research project will monitor 6 kindergarten students. Jones, Ruetzel & Fargo (2010) state that “research concerning the relationship between emergent and formal literacy has shown that helping a young child learn to write has positive effects on future literacy.” In order for students to learn to write, it is necessary that they are presented with opportunities to engage in writing task on a consistent basis. As a kindergarten teacher, I have found that emergent writers have a love for writing, but struggle with mechanics of writing such as capitalization, word spacing, punctuation, and phonetic spelling. At the onset of the research period students will create a baseline writing sample. Each day, students will practice their writing skills by creating a writing piece and corresponding illustration on a lined sheet of paper bearing a section for illustration and rubric for their reference. At the conclusion of the research period, students will create a final writing sample. The baseline writing sample and the post writing sample scores will be compared using a teacher-created rubric. An analysis of the results will enable me to determine the areas that students improved in as well as the areas that need additional instruction and practice.

Candace Cosby, Benjamin Hamilton, Kennedi Herrmann, Molly Molyneaux

Mentor: Matthew Draud, Biology

Do tropical sea urchins have a preference for certain kinds of cover materials?

It is widely known that sea urchins use their tube feet to obtain materials that are used to cover themselves. The selective advantage of this behavior is often assumed to be anti-predator in nature, but some have suggested its possible advantage in terms of protection from intense solar radiation encountered in shallow marine waters. We examined the cover materials used by three sympatric species of tropical sea urchins on the back reef in Discovery Bay Jamaica. We found significant differences in the identity and the quantity of cover materials used by the three species. We also conducted a laboratory-based choice experiment to test whether these three species demonstrate a preference for certain types of cover materials. We removed all the cover materials from individuals of the three species and then placed them in a water table with a collection of materials often found on these species. The urchins were then given 60-min to acquire materials, after which the materials were removed, identified, dried and weighed.

*^Claire Davis

Mentor: Michele Guidone, Biology

Experimentation and Observation of Ilyanassa obsoleta with Plastic Micro-Bead Ingestion

With the passing of the Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015, the tiny plastics found in toothpaste, face wash, and other beauty products as “exfoliators” are no longer legal to be produced starting in 2017. But what about the little plastic spheres already floating in our waters and mixing with the organic materials on our beaches? Toxins can attach to the already present microbeads, become ingested by small organisms, and subsequently work their way up the food chain to the very humans that rinsed the microbeads into the environment. My research is an experimental study on the ingestion and digestion of microbeads using the eastern mud-snail, Ilyanassa obsoleta, a likely primary consumer of the tiny toxin-laden plastics. Experiments include studying the snails’ selection of engulfing the plastics, sand, and shrimp mixture along with the time it takes for them to ingest the micro-plastics and the digestion and mortality rate of snails that do eat the plastics. After running numerous rounds of the experiment over a two month period, results show that mud-snails did not eat the plastics in full micro bead form but did eat the plastics if they were crushed to the size of the sand grains. In conclusion, micro plastics can be ingested at one of the lowest levels of the food chain, however it is likely that they are ingested by larger organisms at higher rates and quantities than the Ilyanassa obsoleta.

**Shalli Davis, Emily Lewis, Kristen Marshall

Mentor: April Garrity, Communication Sciences & Disorders

Slowing Cognitive Decline in Individuals with Dementia: Examining the Effects of Physical Exercise

Irreversible dementia is one of the most common forms of neurodegenerative diseases and unfortunately, there is no cure. This pathology is characterized by the progressive and irreversible alterations of cognitive functioning. There are many treatment approaches aimed at slowing the rate of cognitive decline. One treatment approach is the incorporation of physical exercise into the proposed treatment plan.We conducted a literature review of ten studies. Specifically, our objective was to determine whether physical exercise, in addition to treatment, was attributed to slowing the cognitive decline in individuals with dementia. According to the studies we reviewed (Logsdon, Teleniu, Mahendra, Kolanowski, et. al), increased exercise not only improves physical function in older adults, but may also improve mood and slow progression of cognitive decline. Physical activity may delay onset and progression of dementia in older adults. The incorporation of exercise may also take away some of the negative consequences associated with dementing illnesses and improve functioning in activities of daily living. Though there was a correlation between slower cognitive decline and exercise; it is unclear if exercise was the determinant. Therefore, further research is needed. This is important for professionals working with the geriatric population because of the prevalence of the neurodegenerative disease -- individuals with dementia represent the fastest growing clinical population served by speech–language pathologists.

^Shawna Defreitas, Madison Sox

Mentors: Jennifer Brofft Bailey, Kathryn Craven, Biology

What is the source and distribution of Fusarium solani, a potential pathogen of loggerhead sea turtle embryos?

Previous research showed that failed loggerhead eggs collected from Jekyll Island, GA commonly contained 3 subtypes of the fungus Fusarium solani, two of which have been detected in diseased loggerhead embryos examined elsewhere. In this study we asked: is F. solani associated with failed loggerhead embryos on other GA barrier islands and is the source of F. solani the mother and/or nesting sand? To address these questions, the following were collected from 2013-2015 Wassaw Island, GA loggerhead nests: newly deposited eggs, failed eggs, maternal cloacal fluid and nest sand from the beginning and end of the incubation period. To determine the types of fungi the samples contain, extracted DNA is subject to ITS-PCR amplification using fungal-specific primers. Products are cloned, sequenced and compared to databases to identify the corresponding organisms. The two F. solani types most frequently encountered on Jekyll Island were identified in Wassaw samples. Based on preliminary data, F. solani doesn’t dominate the fungal community in Wassaw failed eggs (22.7%) to the same degree as in Jekyll failed eggs (76.6% in 2010, 94.7% in 2012). Thus far, F. solani hasn’t been detected in newly deposited eggs and cloacal fluid, although interestingly, it was detected in a newly deposited egg that accidently contacted the sand. Collectively, this suggests that the primary source of F. solani is nesting sand and that island differences (e.g., development, sand organic content) may increase the presence of F. solani in loggerhead embryos. Further testing of this hypothesis is ongoing.

Rachael DeLashmit, Yelyzaveta Savchenko

Mentor: April Garrity, Communication Sciences and Disorders

Group Interactive Structured Treatment Versus Communication Partner Training in Adults with Pragmatic Difficulties Following a Traumatic Brain Injury

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) at least 1.7 million traumatic brain injuries (TBI) occur in the United States each year. A TBI can result in many cognitive linguistic deficits including attention, executive function, memory, comprehension, verbal expression, and pragmatic communication difficulties. For the purpose of this study, our focus is on pragmatic functioning in adults who have survived a traumatic brain injury. We searched the literature related to self-monitoring, turn taking, conversation initiation, topic maintenance, and other pragmatic concerns commonly faced by this population. We compared evidence of group interactive structured treatment (GIST) to communication partner training (CPT) to determine which approach was more effective for pragmatic improvement. Group therapy provides an opportunity to converse with unfamiliar communication partners and increase one’s ability to apply social rules flexibly, whereas partner training allows for consistent and intensive support between individuals with TBIs and the persons they communicate with most in a variety of settings. Both GIST and CPT were found to improve pragmatic communication abilities in individuals with TBI, each resulting in unique benefits. Braden et. al (2010) and Lenore et. al (2010) found that GIST helped to improve aspects of pragmatic communication ability including social and emotional competence; GIST also allowed for greater generalization of skills emphasizing real world interactions. Togher et. al (2012) found that CPT led to more significant improvements in the areas of self-awareness and self-monitoring and that the role of the communication partner may be a key contributor to the outcomes of pragmatic treatment.

^Athena Downes, Julia De Amorim

Mentor: Kathryn Craven, Biology

Sexual dimorphic divergence in rescued hatchling diamondback terrapins,

Malaclemys terrapin

The Terrapin Education Research Program of Savannah (TERPS) at Armstrong State University, is focused on work with the state protected species Malaclemys terrapin centrata, the Carolina diamondback terrapin. During summer 2015, TERPS recovered 5 nests from Ft. Pulaski, the Bull River Bridge, and Oatland Island. Eggs were incubated to produce males (25 C, N=7) and females (31 C, N=3) in the laboratory at Armstrong. All hatchlings were individually marked and maintained in captivity under strict husbandry protocols. Morphometric traits have been measured weekly since hatching with the goal of creating a tool to accurately sex juvenile diamondback terrapins in the wild. Currently, Malaclemys terrapin are known to be monomorphic until adulthood. Having completed preliminary data analysis (JMP software, MANOVA, Repeated Measures and Linear Regression) we have observed some very interesting trends that support our hypothesis that sexual dimorphism can be seen in morphometric data, even in juvenile terrapins. The most notable differences established to date are greater female head width, greater male cloacal distance, and greater male tail width.

Travis Draud

Mentor: Michele Guidone, Biology

Are mud snails tiny cannibals? An examination of adult mud snail predation on mud snail eggs

Gracilaria vermiculophylla is an invasive alga that is found along the eastern coast of North America. The mud snail, Ilyanassa obsoleta, has been observed laying egg capsules on this alga. Currently it is unknown whether mud snails experience increased reproductive success due to the novel egg laying substrate provided by G. vermiculophylla or if egg capsules or emerging veligers are consumed by other members of the same species of snail. Previous studies have stated Ilyanassa obsoleta is one of the main predators of its own egg capsules. The purpose of this experiment was to quantify the numbers of egg capsules being consumed by the mud snails. Replicate mesocosms with a known number of egg capsules laid on window screening were placed in a temperature-controlled greenhouse with exposure to natural sunlight. Individual mud snails were placed into each jar containing the egg capsules. Control jars without snails were implemented to monitor natural mortality rates of the egg capsules. At the conclusion of the experiment, surviving egg capsules were counted. We found no evidence of mud snail predation on eggs laid by other individuals of the same species. As previous studies were conducted with snails from northern populations, this may indicate behavioral differences in this species across a latitudinal gradient.

**Erica Droste

Mentor: Lesley Clack, Health Sciences

Categories of Wasteful Spending in the United States Health Care System

Health care is known to be one of America’s leading components of national spending that steadily increases every year at an unsustainable rate. The United States spent 2.6 trillion dollars on health care in 2012 and nearly 3 trillion dollars in 2014. Health care accounts for about 18 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product, or GDP. Policy makers are continuously seeking ways to slow the growth or reduce health care spending as a whole. The first step in slowing down that growth is to understand why spending is at an all-time high and to pinpoint the major contributing factors. A literature review revealed that the top contributors of wasteful spending in health care are failures of care delivery, failures of care coordination, over treatment, administrative complexity, pricing failures, and fraud and abuse. These are just a few of the obvious reasons health care spending is so unbelievably high. What most people are not aware of is the bizarre amount that is actually wasted every year. More than one-third of health care spending can be constituted as services that lack evidence of producing better health outcomes and efficient use, otherwise known as waste. The presentation will highlight the main issues and will discuss new ways and ideas to deal with the problem.

^Amanda Dykes, Lia Kerkes

Mentor: Robert Mans, Biology

Establishing a spatial-memory test for adult zebrafish

WAITING ON COMPLETE ABSTRACT
*Jessica Edwards

Mentor: Matthew Draud, Biology

Juvenile Diamondback Terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) rescued from golf course sand traps are tagged and released

The purpose of this experiment was to observe and record the behavior of recently released juvenile Diamondback Terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) at the Landings on Skidaway Island. It was hypothesized that the juvenile Diamondback Terrapins would show a preference in habitat as the juveniles matured over the course of several weeks. Three Diamondback Terrapins rescued from the Landings’ golf course sand pits were tagged with a transmitter and released in marsh vegetation. Several measurements were recorded along with any other observations each time an individual tracked the Diamondback Terrapins with the receiver. The juvenile Diamondback Terrapins were found to be concealed the majority of the time in substrate. This can help the juvenile Diamondback Terrapins avoid predation and keep a constant temperature as the individuals mature.

**Melissa Erickson

Mentor: Nedra Cossa, Early Childhood Education

Playing to Learn: Gamification in the Elementary Classroom

The purpose of this poster presentation is to study the role of gamification in the elementary school classroom by examining the way games make us partake in self-betterment through the way Jim Boultin (2014) describes in his book 100 Ideas that Changed the Web – scorekeeping, rule following, interaction with peers, and handling the unexpected. This poster will address the benefits of a gamified classroom – namely self-intrinsic motivation as described by James Banfield and Brad Wilkerson’s 2014 article “Increasing Student Intrinsic Motivation and Self-Efficacy Through Gamification Pedagogy,” as well as the brief history of the gamified classroom and the successes achieved in that setting (Dicheva, Dichev, Agre, & Angelova, “Gamification in Education: A Systematic Mapping Study,” 2015). The poster presentation will conclude with ways to incorporate gamification strategies into the elementary classroom with or without the use of technology (Darcy, 2014).

^Thomas Ewing

Mentor: Aaron Schrey, Biology

DNA Methylation Patterns in Kenyan House Sparrows

We investigated DNA methylation patterns among populations of Kenyan house sparrows. First we investigated if DNA methylation patterns differ across multiple populations throughout Kenya. Second, if a difference in DNA methylation existed among populations, we determined if it was related to TLR4 gene expression. We used bisulfite sequencing to compare birds from different geographic regions and determine the amount of DNA methylation present in a specific promoter region of the TR4 gene. DNA methylation patterns in the promoter region of the TLR4 gene could be correlated to the expression of the gene. If a difference in methylation patterns was found consistently with differing phenotypes for multiple populations it suggested that each population had different environmental stressors that influence epigenetic mechanisms. These habitat specific factors may play a role in influencing methylation within the TLR4 gene in Kenyan house sparrows. Comparing these populations told us which areas had the greatest amount of methylation and which areas had the least. By relating these amounts to the habitat to which it belongs we hoped to discover what kinds of differences in DNA methylation patterns among populations of Kenyan house sparrows regulate the gene expression of the TLR4 gene.

^Chance Everette

Mentor: Rachel Green, Art, Music and Theatre

Creatures with Features

Looking back at textile history the terms “Science” and “Art” have been long intertwined, one has difficulty progressing without the other. For example, textiles combine both chemistry, construction, and design. Recently, textiles have begun to incorporate electronics to realize something never seen before and bring more into our world than was thought to be there. For my research symposium poster, I will be creating a series of interactive textiles that combine both hard and soft materials. Primarily, I will be re-purposing a toy RC car to be controlled with Bluetooth technology and android devices using the computer program Arduino. Through the use of fiber and fiber sculpture techniques I will transform the RC car into a fiber monster that can be controlled by the tip of your finger. My intention is to progress the relationship between science and fiber art through interactive means. By controlling the textile through the popular Android OS, the work becomes more compelling and accessible to the audience, stimulating their interest in both the art and technology.

^Jasmine Ferguson, Nathaniel Tarbell

Mentor: Jennifer Brofft Bailey, Heather Joesting, Biology

Molecular analysis of Sapleo Island dune plants and beach sand to test whether dune plants associate with nitrogen fixing microbes

The necessity of nitrogen for living things is critical and though it may seem nonessential, it is very important to understand how plants in dune ecosystems obtain the nitrogen they require for survival. We hypothesize that because sand is nutrient poor, dune plants compensate by receiving sufficient levels of nitrogen from microbes known as nitrogen fixers. These microbes may be found inside the plants’ roots or in the surrounding sand. During summer 2015, 5 root and sand samples from 4 different dune plants were taken from Sapelo Island, GA in order to detect whether the gene specific to nitrogen fixers is present. This gene (termed nifH) encodes for an enzyme called nitrogenase which enables these microbes to reduce N2 to ammonia, a usable form of nitrogen for the plant. DNA extracted from these samples is being screened by PCR to determine whether or not we can detect the nifH gene. PCR reactions are being run along with a no template control (to test for contamination) and a positive control (DNA extracted from termites [known to harbor N2 fixers]). The subsequent PCR reactions are then analyzed using gel electrophoresis. This will allow us to determine if these dune plants do indeed form a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen fixing microbes and, if so, what types are commonly associated with these plant species. By developing a thorough understanding of the microbiomes of dune ecosystems, we can learn better ways to preserve and protect our fragile coastlines.

^+Alexis Fields

Mentor: Brandon Quillian, Chemistry and Physics

Reactivity of Bi(pyrazol-1-yl)acetic acid Ligands with Diiodo(η6-p-cymene)ruthenium(II)

We have previously shown that the phosphite coordinated diiodo(η6-p-cymene)ruthenium(II) complex, η6-p-cymene)RuI2{P(OCH2)3CEt}, reacts cleanly with phenylmagnesium bromide at room temperature in methylene chloride to yield the phenylated ruthenium(II) complex, (η6-cymene)RuI(Ph){P(OCH2)3CEt}. In light of this facile reactivity, we became interested in the reactivity of diiodo(η6-p-cymene)ruthenium(II) with weaker nucleophiles. Reaction of bis(pyrazol-1-yl)acetic acid ((pz)2HCCO2H, pz = pyrazolyl; BPA) or bis(3,5-dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)acetic acid ((3,5-Me-pz)2HCCO2H, pz = 3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl; 3,5-MeBPA) with diiodo(η6-p-cymene)ruthenium(II) in the presence of potassium carbonate at room temperature in acetonitrile (NCMe) affords octahedral, (η6-p-cymene)(κ3-N,N,O-BPA)Ru(II) (1) and (η6-p-cymene)(κ3-N,N,O-3,5-Me-BPA)Ru(II) (2), respectively. Increasing the reaction temperature to 80° C displaces the cymene ligand of 1 and 2 and yields cationic, tris-acetonitrile ruthenium heteroscorpionate complexes, [(κ3-N,N,O-BPA)Ru(II)(NCMe)3]I (3) and [(κ3-N,N,O-3,5-MeBPA)Ru(II)(NCMe)3]I (4). Compound 2 is sterically congested and displays broad and ill-defined 1H NMR signals, suggesting a fluxional process most likely associated with the liberation of one of the 3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl arms of the 3,5-MeBPA ligand from the metal. All compounds have been characterized by 1H, 13C NMR, infrared spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Compounds 1 and 4 have also been characterized by single crystal X-ray crystallography. Notably, compounds 3 and 4 may serve as synthons for the preparation of a number of new compounds including those capable of performing olefin hydroarylation reactions.

Emily Flingos, Katie Ann Fopiano, Paige Gocke, Macey Lang, +Sierra Rothbart

Mentor: Scott Mateer, Biology

Title: Characterizing the role of Loop A on Substrate Specificity of Yeast Reductases

Our work seeks to explore the substrate specificity of YHR104w, YOR120w, YJR096w, and YBR149w by identifying regions important for substrate binding and orientation. For our analysis we have targeted residues located in the reductases’ Substrate Specificity Loop A (Loop A). We generated 4 mutants to investigate this region. Two mutants, 120L104 and 104L120, were made by exchanging the Loop A regions between YHR104w, YOR120w. An additional set of two mutants were made by exchanging the C-terminal “halves” of the reductases, YJR096w and YBR149w to generate the chimeric proteins 096N149C and 149N096C. These constructs were screened by restriction digest and verified by DNA sequencing, and the mutant constructs were transformed into E. coli. We are currently working to optimize protein expression so that we can characterize the substrate specificity of the Loop A region from these diverse reductases.

^Jessica Futch

Mentor: Sarah Zingales, Chemistry and Physics

Synthesis and Antibacterial

Chalcones are natural products produced by plants for defense against various pathogens. Chalcones, comprised of two aromatic rings joined by an α-β-unsaturated ketone, have shown potential as agents to inhibit bacterial growth. Previous research in Dr. Zingales' lab has shown that simple chalcones have efficacy against anti-bacterial resistant strains such as VRE (Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci). As part of Dr. Zingales' research team, we synthesized new chalcones that were evaluated for their medicinal properties against five different bacteria: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE), and Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC)-producing bacteria. The synthesis was completed through an aldol condensation reaction utilizing various aldehyde and ketone starting materials. Antibacterial testing followed standard broth microdilution methods.

**Deborah Nicole Grant, Kendall Roe

Mentor: April Garrity, Communication Sciences & Disorders

Improving Social Skills in Adolescents with Traumatic Brain Injury: A Comparison of Arts-based Therapy and Game-based Therapy

Adolescents and young adults age 15–24 have the highest incidence of a traumatic brain injury (TBI), typically associated with motor vehicle accidents, falls, or other trauma resulting in damage to the brain. Individuals with TBI’s can experience a variety of deficits impacting cognitive and communication skills. One common deficit seen in these individuals is the impairment of social skills, which interferes with the way one communicates and interacts with individuals, both verbally and nonverbally. Two therapy approaches aimed at improving social skills in adolescents with TBI are arts-based therapy and game-based therapy. Arts-based therapy utilizes art forms such as drama, music, and visual arts to promote social communication. Game-based therapy is an approach that relies on the use of multisensory interactive games that facilitate social interactions. The objective of this literature review was to examine the outcomes of arts-based therapy and game-based therapy on improving social skills in adolescents with TBI. Agnihotri, et al (2012, 2014) published studies assessing the effectiveness of arts-based therapy and its ability to facilitate social communication. Janssen, et al 2012 published a case report exploring the effects of game-based therapy in individuals with an acquired brain injury. Results showed that both therapies were effective in improving individual’s social communication skills. Clinical judgment should be used to determine which therapy would be most effective for individual clients. Due to the limited number of studies on arts-based therapy and game-based therapy, additional research is needed to determine effectiveness of interventions.

**Elizabeth Grant, Maria Smith

Mentor: April Garrity, Speech Language Pathology

For individuals with dementia, are medications, cognitive training therapies, or both used in conjunction, more beneficial for preserving cognitive functions?

Dementia is a syndrome that results in decline of memory and at least one other cognitive ability significantly enough to interfere with an individual’s daily life activities (Hopper et. al, 2013). The severity of dementia increases as it progresses and increasingly affects memory, cognitive function, and attention affecting activities of daily living and their ability to interact with their environment. Recent research states that patients with dementia comprise a large portion of speech-language pathologist’s caseloads. However, overall, individuals with dementia are underserved by these professionals who provide services regarding cognitive training (Bryan and Maxim, 2002). Five studies were reviewed comparing the effects of pharmacological and cognitive training on executive function, memory, and other cognitive abilities in individuals with dementia. There are many intervention approaches including direct and indirect treatment. Direct treatment involving pharmacological, cognitive training and other therapies result in relatively preserved cognitive abilities. Indirect treatment approaches target compensatory strategies, specifically with environmental training and caregiver support. The results indicate, “cognitive stimulation combined with drug treatment leads to considerable improvement in both the cognitive functions and mood of these patients” (Requena et al., 2004). These findings suggest that SLPs working with individuals with dementia should use cognitive training strategies for individuals with dementia to compound the effectiveness of drug therapies prescribed by physicians. Due to the limited number of studies on cognitive training and pharmacological interventions used in collaboration, further research is needed.

^Michael Hamilton, Kourtnei Zellner

Mentor: Robert Mans, Biology

Zebrafish as a model for the study of Alzheimer's disease

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have become the third most popular model organism for neuroscience research. We have been studying adult zebrafish to identify biological molecules needed for synaptic plasticity, the foundation for memory. In rodents, arc (activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein) has been shown to be necessary for memory acquisition, and its expression in the hippocampus, the memory acquisition hubin humans and rodents, is directly linked to exposure to novel environments. Using Western blot protein analysis, we have detected a protein with a similar structure to human and rodent arc. To test the functional role of this arc-like protein, we exposed fish to a y-maze, and then added a novel arm for them to explore, which we predicted would cause an increase in the arc-like protein in areas of the brain required for spatial memory. We analyzed tissue from three major regions of the zebrafish brain - the telencephalon, medulla, and optic tectum – with different functional roles. Our preliminary data indicate the arc-like protein did not increase in the medulla or the optic tectum. However, arc-like protein expression increased in the telencephalon, an area homologous to the human hippocampus. To more specifically test the functional role of the arc-like protein, follow-up studies will involve using drugs to artificially manipulate brain activity.

Aaron Hamlet, Khai Le

Mentor: Priya Goeser, Engineering Studies

The Disassembly and Analysis of a Hair Dryer

Many of our everyday household items contain technology; items such as computers, clocks, and hair dryers. The common user cannot confidently explain why he/she may get electrocuted when they drop a hair dryer under operation in water, rather they know so because the warning label advises them not to. In the simplest terms, a hair dryer receives the air from outside, heats it and blows out hot air at a higher velocity. This project involves alleviating the knowledge gap from the manufacturers and consumers by disassembling a hair dryer to its individual components and providing a purpose and fundamental operating principle for each part identified. Along with the parts, the properties of the airflow will also be evaluated. This includes the temperature, pressure, speed, and many other properties. Additionally, using the power usage specified from the hair dryer and the hair dryer’s dimensions, a trace of the mass and energy flow of the hair dryer during operation will be computed using thermodynamic control volume equations. These calculated values will present an overall detailed numerical and visual picture of how a hair dryer works. After the completion of collecting data, the user can be more educated about each individual component to lead to safer use of the hair dryer.

**Nicole Hewitt, Rita Massie

Mentor: April Garrity, Communication Sciences & Disorders

Dementia Treatment Approaches and their Effects

Each year more than three million Americans are diagnosed with the chronic, incurable condition known as dementia. Dementia is caused by degeneration of brain cells in the cerebral cortex, which interferes with their ability to communicate with one another. While symptoms of dementia may vary, at least two of the following core mental functions are significantly impaired: memory, communication and language, attention, visual perception, and reasoning and judgment. The purpose of this literature review is to determine which treatment approaches, direct, indirect, a combination of both, or no intervention, lead to better maintenance of cognitive abilities and functional communication. Although there are no known cures for dementia, the five studies examined in this review revealed positive effects of indirect and direct treatment approaches on slowing the progression of dementia. In addition, lifestyle changes can also help individuals manage their symptoms and live a more functional life. Research shows that exercise programs, speech- language therapy, caregiver education, pharmaceuticals, and/or communication strategies help to slow the progression of dementia. Heyn, et. al (2004) found that exercise training increases fitness, physical function, cognitive function, and positive behavior in people with dementia. Brodaty, et. al (2012) publicized how non-pharmacological interventions, such as caregiver education and communication strategies, reduced the frequency and severity of dementia symptoms. The overall findings of these studies showed that individuals with dementia exhibit a wide variety of cognitive and communication deficits and therefore each treatment approach should be individualized towards the person affected and their caregivers.

Krista Henburg, Jamal Ingram, Nakia Page

Mentors: Jennifer Beirdneau, Radiologic Sciences, Janet Buelow, Thomas Mckinley, Health Sciences

College Campuses Becoming Harmful to Female Students

Introduction: Women between the ages of 18 & 24 experience a high number of sexual assaults on college campuses. Prominent risk factors of sexual assault include alcohol consumption and drug use. Alcohol decreases one’s ability to think responsibly and predisposes to sexually aggressive situations. Purpose: Sexual assault is on a steady increase, and many cases are not reported. The only way to diffuse this important issue is to spread awareness and help educate those about sexual assault, along with preventive measures. Also it is important to help make those who have been assaulted to feel safe, providing the opportunity to report the incident and prevent any further assaults. Methods: We’re doing a systematic review of articles on this important topic. Results: Findings conclude that one in every five women are sexually assaulted during their college years. Even with the underreporting, over 97, 000 students are victims to sexual assault or date rape. Many of the sexual assaults are due in fact to the female students drinking excessively over the daily intake limit. Conclusion: The findings of studies conclude that preventive measures and prevention programs are a necessary implementation against sexual assault. Excessive alcohol consumption and drug use is the risk factor associated with the attacks. Awareness campaigns, education programs, and help lines are recommended to help aid the fight against sexual assault.

**Briauna Hill

Mentor: N/A

The lack of access to birth control in Brazil is the main catalyst for the increase of the zika virus in reproductive aged women 18-35

The emergence of the Zika virus in Latin America has highlighted the lack of women’s reproductive health services. The highly conservative climate and hotbed of gender disparities are negatively influencing women’s reproductive rights to care and subsequently increasing the prevalence of Zika viruses among reproductive aged women. With the recommendation of Brazil’s Government to postpone pregnancy for two years without providing support for its female citizens it is failing their women and adversely increasing the prevalence of the Zika virus in the process.

Sean Hendrix, Erin McGillen

Mentor: Ho Huynh, Psychology

“You will fail!”: Assessing Responses to Interpersonal Bracing

People sometimes will lower other people’s expectations to help them like their actual outcome more. For example, hostesses will often overestimate waiting times to ensure customers are satisfied with their experience. Although this type of manipulation of expectations increases or decreases people’s satisfaction and liking (i.e., intrapersonal responses), not much is understood about the consequences for the person doing the manipulation (i.e., interpersonal outcomes). The current study examines people’s interpersonal and intrapersonal responses when their expectations are manipulated for passing or failing a task. We manipulated participants’ expectations by informing them that they had to complete and pass a task that was either difficult and they have a 90% chance of failing or that the task was moderately difficult and they have a 50% chance of failing. We found that participants who were told it would be difficult reported lower levels of negative affect and rated their researcher as friendlier than those who were told it was moderately difficult. There was no difference between the two conditions for aggressive behavior and positive affect. Taken together, these findings suggest that it is a good idea to help others brace for the worst.

^Kyle Hutchins

Mentor: Sarah Gray, Chemistry and Physics

Method Development and Analysis of Alpha Acids in Beer Hops

With craft brewing growing immensely not only here in Savannah, but also throughout the United States, understanding the chemical contributions of hops under different brewing conditions is critical in determining the characteristics of a final product. Quantitative analysis via HPLC will allow us to determine relative compositions of common alpha acids, such as humulone and iso-humulone, found within different brews. These hop derivatives are major contributors in the subsequent “bitter” taste received by the palate upon consumption of certain brews. Finding key ratios of these acids to offset the sweet taste resultant of the barley used in the malting/brewing process is what fuels craft brewers today in the search for new formulations. We plan to establish a baseline comparison by analyzing hop extracts against commercially available alpha and iso-alpha acid reference standards (ICS-I3 and ICS-R2). From this baseline, we will be able to determine the overall compositions of these hop derivatives within a finished brewed product. Our current collaboration with Southbound Brewing Co. allows us access to samples, and provides us with practical application of the resulting data. Future work includes formulating an upper level lab for students to replicate these analyses. Ultimately, students will be able to examine real world samples, while developing key analytical and biochemical lab practices in the process.

**Delia Istrate, Sharlene Johnson, David Paek, Benjamin Wilkening

Mentors: Kathleen Schaefer, Health Sciences, Anthony Parish, Greg Wimer, Physical Education

Establishing normative data for Stair Climbing Test in the healthy adult population

Introduction: Quick, valid, and reliable measures are necessary to assess cardiovascular health. The stair climb test (SCT) is easily applicable and may be more useful in space-limited settings, but has not been standardized or validated against the gold standard of the six minute walk test (6MWT). Purpose: To establish normative speed values in the healthy population for height ascended during a SCT and to compare the SCT with the 6MWT. Design: Quasi-experimental, with the independent variable of exercise type, and dependent variables of distance, time, and blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and dyspnea. Subjects: Convenience sample of healthy adults, 20 - 60 years of age (N= 137, mean age 34.0 years old, males= 44, females = 93). Methods: All subjects performed a 6MWT in which distance completed was measured, followed by a SCT, in which ascending speed in meters per second was recorded. Other variables were recorded before and immediately after each test and at 4 minutes after completion of the SCT. Results: The average distance walked in the 6MWT was 582.85 +/- 85.89 meters. The average ascending speed in the SCT was .45 m/s +/- .12 m/s. Discussion/Conclusions: Full statistical analysis is pending, but initial review suggests that the SCT is comparable to the 6MWT and may be a viable alternative to the 6MWT.

^Abigail Johnson

Mentor: Jennifer Zettler, Biology

Color Change in Larval Antlions in Response to Background

Larval antlions (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae) construct pits in sandy soils to trap invertebrate prey. These ambush predators sit at the bottom of their pits with their mandibles open and ready for prey to tumble in. Those most successful in prey capture will take less time to develop into the adult stage. Antlions can be found in many soil types that vary in texture and color. In our study, we investigated if an antlion has the ability to alter its color to match its background. Some insects are capable of this change by selective breakdown and synthesis of cuticular and epidermal pigments. We placed 40 first instar larval antlions each in a condiment cup filled with either black or white soil. Biweekly, antlion head capsules were photographed using a microscope-mounted digital camera set at the same focal distance and exposure. All images are placed into Photoshop, where their head capsule is assigned an average RGB value in a 101 x 101 pixelated area and each result is recorded. Each RGB value is a series of 9 numbers that ranged in shades of increasing hue. Using an objective approach, we can appropriately identify if background color influences larval pigmentation. These data will be presented this spring as a poster at both the annual Association of Southeastern Biologist meeting in Concord, NC and at the Armstrong Student Scholar’s Symposium.

^+Clint Johnson, Sophia Laska, Megan Turpin

Mentor: Ho Huynh, Psychology

Humble Coaches and their Influence on Athlete’s Lives

Humility is an often desired trait, yet is the most understudied virtue (Chancellor & Lyubomirsky, 2013), particularly in athletics. As it is a trait based in modesty, it can be difficult to measure through self-proclamations. However, relational reporting allows for a more reliable perspective when reported by someone who has formed a knowledgeable relationship with the person (Davis et al., 2011). In our study, we examined ratings of athletic coaches’ relational humility and their influence on players’ development. A total of 185 participants participated in an online survey by rating their most recent coach’s humility and how influential they found this coach to be in their personal, athletic, and academic life. We found that coaches’ levels of overall humility and an accurate self-view were positively correlated with players’ personal, athletic and academic development. Conversely, we found that coaches’ levels of superiority were negatively correlated with players’ development. These findings suggest that coaches’ humility may be a factor in determining how influential a coach can be on an athlete’s development. These findings can lead to better education of coaching. However, the causal arrow is unclear and future research is necessary.

**Ashley Johnston

Mentor: Olavi Arens, History

Through the Eyes of a Child

Foreign policy dictates how one nation aligns with or despises another nation, especially in war time. Children are often times an integral part of propaganda used to spread the ideology of the nation’s leaders, since children are the future leaders of this world. The majority of policies created regarding children are going to be internal, such as education, criminal laws, and family laws. However, there are a few foreign policies involving children, and one of the most recent is the Russian ban on American adoptions. International adoption in Russia began in the early 1990s after the fall of the Soviet Union. America is known as the adoption nation, as they adopt more kids domestically and internationally than any other nation with the year 2004 marking the peak of the adoption era in the United States. However, the motive behind the adoption ban lies behind an American foreign policy that effected Russia. Nations utilize foreign policy as a means to an end, to perhaps persuade other nations to pass policies in their favor. How does this effect the children of a nation? To answer this question, one needs to look into the history of children and orphans, “normal” and “special” in a given nation, in this case Russia/Soviet Union. International adoption changed the lives of thousands of Russian orphans, especially special needs children. By banning the biggest adoption nation, Russia now faces pressure from UNICEF, other nations, and those directly involved in the orphanages in Russia to lift the ban in hopes of giving thousands of children a chance at having a family.

Staci Johnston, **Alexander Merritt

Mentor: Brent Feske, Chemistry and Physics

Synthesis of Substrates for Chiral Amine Production

Chiral amines are versatile precursors to a variety of pharmaceuticals. Though these compounds can be produced using more traditional means, these methods have several drawbacks such as harmful byproducts, mixed stereoisomers, and cost. Due to these drawbacks, scientists are investigating better approaches to synthesizing these molecules. One such process is biocatalysis, which is the use of biological systems to do complex chemistry more efficiently. The purpose of this project is to produce novel substrates and screen their activity with our genetically engineered enzymes. We hypothesize that these enzymes will take these ketone substrates and convert them to chiral amines. We will be measuring both the reactivity of these newly formed substrates with the enzyme as well as the proportion of stereoisomers that are produced. We have currently synthesized two putative substrates for our enzymes using NaNO3 in acetic acid. These products will need to be purified using flash chromatography and then verified by gas chromatography (GC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). After purification and verification, we will then screen using the genetically engineered enzyme. The screening process includes a negative control, positive control and desired reaction.

**Ashley Jones

Mentor: April Garrity, Speech Language Pathology

Improving Memory in Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury: A Comparison of Errorless Learning and Spaced-Retrieval Training

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when an external mechanical force causes insult to the brain structure. Individuals with TBI have varied difficulties in the skill areas of language and cognition. Memory impairment is common following traumatic brain injury. This deficit can negatively impact functional communication and participation in activities of daily living. Errorless learning and spaced-retrieval training are interventions designed to improve memory in persons with TBI. Errorless learning is an instructional strategy that facilitates correct responses by hindering opportunities for incorrect responses and thus decreasing the acquisition of errors. Spaced-retrieval training is used to facilitate memory recall by rehearsing information at different and increasing spaced intervals of time.

The objective of this literature review was to determine whether errorless learning or spaced-retrieval training is more effective in improving memory for functional communication in individuals with TBI. Seven research studies examining the effects of errorless learning and spaced-retrieval training on memory were reviewed. Campbell, et. al (2007) found errorless learning to significantly reduce the incidence of frequently occurring memory lapses. Hillary, et. al (2003) found spaced-retrieval training to improve memory in individuals with TBI. Jang, et. al (2015) suggest that the combination of the two strategies is more effective than the use of one. Further research is needed in order to verify the most efficacious of the treatments. The clinical implications of these findings is that these strategies can reduce the personal and social burden of persons with TBI by providing skill sets that generalize beyond the therapy context.
**Maima Kiawu, Sarah Lewis, Jadon Phillips, Sharlonda Pierce, Jah'Sosha Smith

Mentor: McKinley Thomas, Health Sciences

Food Deserts in Relation To Obesity

Obesity is a catalyst for various chronic diseases in the United States. Nationally, more than one-third or 78.6 million Americans are obese and prevalence rates are projected to increase to 50 percent by 2030 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015). This systematic review examined obesity rates in light of food security and minority populations in an effort to answer the following questions: Does race and socioeconomic status predispose minority populations to higher obesity rates? What influential factors construct food deserts that target minorities? Utilizing Galileo, PubMed, and ProQuest databases, the authors conducted a systematic review utilizing appropriate search phrases. Peer reviewed manuscripts selected for review were published between 2004 and 2015. Articles were read by each author and summarized. Emergent themes served as the basis question response. Access and availability to healthy food is a key determinant in the overall health of residents in food deprived neighborhoods. Although food insecure neighborhoods are classified as having limited resources, progressive measures have been implemented in these neighborhoods in order to provide a means for residents to obtain fresh foods Community initiatives, policy modification and development, as well as nutrition education are imperative in facilitating change in food desert communities. The goal of this study was to highlight research that has been done on food deserts in relation to obesity in order to initiate awareness, as well as provide additional information to preexisting literature. More work needs to be done to obtain food security worldwide, and diminish the rising trend of obesity.

Jessye Kirkham

Mentor: Michele Guidone, Biology

Investigation of Seasonal Patterns of Trematode Infections in the Mud Snail Ilyanassa obsoleta

Parasitic infections are quite common among members of the Nassariidae family, and are thought to be a major cause of male castration, which limits reproductive success and lowers fitness viability. The trematode A. variglandis, for example, is an infectious parasite that invades the mud snail, Ilyanassa obsoleta and uses them as obligate intermediate hosts for the progression of their life cycle. The purpose of our study was to determine the infection rates of local snail populations and to determine if these trematodes affect the mud snails on a seasonal basis. Some previous studies have shown that infections stop during the winter months, however others have concluded that trematodes were present during those months. To determine trematode infection rates in local mud snails, we randomly collected snails from April to November, 2015 from two mud flats using quadrats and measured them with calipers to insure proper size. Snails were then preserved in ethanol until dissection. During dissection, sex was identified and the intestine and gonads were examined under the compound microscope to determine trematode presence. We found infection rate varied with collection date with a higher infection rate in late spring and early summer than in fall. As the higher infection rates correspond to the mud snail reproductive season, these results indicate that trematode infection may have a large impact on the reproductive success of the mud snail, Ilyanassa obsoleta.

*Catherine LaHaise, Esther Medrano, David Riechert

Mentor: Jennfier Zettler, Biology

Bioremediation of copper with duckweed

Duckweed is a durable aquatic plant that can absorb a lot of copper and still be productive at low concentrations, such as 0.5 mg/L, making it useful for bioremediation (Zerdaoui). To evaluate the efficiency of copper absorption in duckweed, 3.00 to 3.02 grams of duckweed were placed in distilled water, to act as a control, and in concentrations of 0.5 ppm CuNO3, 1.5 pm CuNO3, 2.5 ppm CuNO3, and 3.5 ppm CuNO3 for two weeks. As the copper concentrations of the growth media increased, the copper concentrations inside the duckweed and its biomass increased. Copper absorption rates reached a peak between 0.97% to 0.99% after ten days and leveled out. Duckweed could be effective at remediating even the higher copper concentrations if it were harvested from the bioremediation site after death, and before decomposition occurred.

Leanna Lilienthal, Traci Crider

Mentor: Jennifer Brofft Bailey, Biology

Comparison of amoA primer sets for nitrification studies in aquaponics

Aquaponics involves raising fish and produce in a closed system; nutrients in fish waste fuel plant growth and plant nutrient assimilation helps purify recirculating water. Successful aquaponics systems depend, in part, on nitrification, a microbial process that converts ammonia to nitrate. Ammonia levels that can become toxic to fish are decreased and levels of nitrate, a preferred N source for certain plants, are increased. The rate-limiting step for nitrification is catalyzed by ammonia-oxidizing Archaea (AOA) and Bacteria (AOB). Armstrong State University is developing an Aquaponics Research Center. Once established, we plan to use a PCR-based approach to characterize the types of ammonia oxidizers present. The amoA gene is specific to known ammonia oxidizers and can serve as a means to detect and identify these microorganisms in natural systems. For this study, we tested different amoA PCR primers to determine which are most appropriate to apply to future aquaponics studies at Armstrong. A literature search was performed to find recently designed AOA and AOB primer sets that are more sensitive and target a wider variety of ammonia oxidizers. These primer sets were tested to determine optimal annealing temperatures and to compared to more established primer sets. DNA was extracted from several test samples (e.g., aquarium, soil) and used as template for 2 AOA and 2 AOB primer sets. PCR products were then analyzed by gel electrophoresis to determine which sets might be best suited for employment in future studies of the ammonia oxidizing microbial community in aquaponics systems.

Rachel Lewis

Mentor: Yassaman Saadatmund, Economics

Importing Gender Equality: Globalization and the Female Labor Participation Rate

This study investigates the impact of globalization on the female labor force participation rate of a sample of 214 developed and developing countries during 2003-2012. Globalization and trade liberalization has been cited as a source of increasing female participation rate. Based on Gary Becker’s 1957 Economics of Discrimination….. I don’t have my results yet. I will shoot Ashley Johnston a message later

**Crystal Logsdon

Mentor: Kelly Bouthillet, Nursing

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

During the Vietnam War, many critically injured soldiers and marines were resuscitated and stabilized with volume in forward operating bases and then transported to higher levels of care. Patients would develop respiratory distress, diffuse lung infiltrates, and respiratory failure, sometimes after a delay of hours to days. In 1967, military clinicians described this condition in Lancet as “adult respiratory distress syndrome”. Since then the definition and criteria for diagnosis has evolved to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

ARDS is an acute condition characterized by bilateral pulmonary infiltrates and severe hypoxemia in the absence of evidence for cardiogenic pulmonary edema. Direct lung injury due to aspiration of matter into the lungs, systemic illnesses, and injuries is frequently the inciting event to ARDS. Several factors make patients predisposed to developing ARDS; advanced age, female sex (noted only in trauma cases), cigarette smoking, and alcohol use. Mortality rates have essentially remained unchanged (range from 34 to 58%) from when ARDS was internationally defined in 1994. ARDS occurs in all ages with increased incidence with advancing age and there are no differences for incidence by sex. Morbidity of ARDS is considerable with prolonged hospital courses, and nosocomial infections, especially ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Patients also have significant weight loss and muscle weakness, and functional impairment may persist for months after hospital discharge. There is no effective therapy to treat the underlying pathophysiology of ARDS. Management is focused on the supportive care till syndrome resolves.

Lauren Lott

Mentor: Ho Huynh, Psychology

Race and the Color Red: Significant Determinants in Perceived Attraction?

Research has suggested that people tend to choose own-race partners because they perceive partners of their own-race as more attractive than other-race partners. The color red and race were examined as a determinants of perceived attraction among college students who rated either an African American (AA) or Caucasian American (CA) male pictured on a red or gray background. Participants (N = 335) were females between the ages of 18-24 and identified as either African American or Caucasian American. Results show that AA females rated the target AA male highest in perceived attraction, and rated the target CA male as lower. CA females rated the target CA male highest in perceived attraction, but rated the target AA male as lowest overall. There was no differences in attractiveness ratings and background color of the picture.

Kristopher Maedke-Russell

Mentor: Jay Hodgson, Biology

Shifts in Diatom Paleo-Community Assemblage: Raccoon Key, Georgia

This research focuses on algal microfossils (Diatoms: Bacillariophyceae) found throughout a sediment core obtained from Raccoon Key in coastal Georgia. Our object is to understand landscape evolution and barrier island formation in the region. Due to the habitat specificity exhibited by diatoms, genus-level identification indicated a shift from planktonic organisms in more recent sediment samples to episammic, epilithic, or epiphytic organisms in later sediment samples. An increase in non-marine taxa mid-core may indicate a sudden increase in terrestrial freshwater runoff, potentially showing processes relating to the formation of Raccoon Key. We are currently reanalyzing the diatoms at species-level and plan to incorporate radiometric dating to more conclusively elucidate ecological changes over time in this region.

**Vanessa Manning

Mentor: Sara Plaspohl, Health Sciences

Air Quality on Human Health

Healthy People 2020 strives to inform and encourage individuals about key public health issues, focusing on objectives to improve quality of health. The purpose of this evidence-based research was to examine the significance of a leading health indicator, air quality, and discuss why it should acquire attention. A literature review was conducted on air quality, yielding environmental factors such as weather temperature and anthropogenic substances as being contributing factors associated with adverse health outcomes. Comprehensively, each article suggested further studies being conducted to gain sufficient data to create policy regarding the decrease of harmful matter in the environment.

^Kim Mandigo, Amy Neely, +Rebekah Robinson

Mentor: Mitch Weiland, Chemistry and Physics

Characterization of the Putative TMH2 region within Human Perforin through Protein Engineering

Perforin (PRF) is an immune pore-forming protein secreted by cytotoxic T lymphocytes and natural killer cells. The crystal structure of mouse PRF was recently determined and shows structural homology with a family of bacterial pore-forming proteins known as cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs). Perfringolysin O (PFO) is a member of the CDC family that has been used to determine the pore forming mechanism. The mechanism involves a vertical collapse of the protein that brings two transmembrane β-hairpins (TMHs) to the membrane surface so the oligomer can form a β-barrel pore that is capable of penetrating membranes. The structural similarities between PRF and PFO suggest that the helical bundles in PRF may collapse and refold in a way similar to PFO. To identify if these regions are functional, we have constructed chimeras composed of PFO with one TMH region replaced with the putative TMH region of PRF. The chimeras retained significant activity when compared to PFO. These results strongly suggest the putative TMH region of PRF functions in a manner similar to the TMH region of PFO, indicating this region is responsible for membrane insertion.

Daniel McClendon, Jason Ray

Mentor: Priya Goeser, Engineering Studies

Residential Integrated Power and Heating Systems

Every modern household requires a power source to heat space water. Most consumers rely on conventional power companies for this resource partially due to a lack of knowledge about renewable resource costs. Renewable power sources can be much more expensive relative to the conventional method; however, they can have a positive impact on the economy as well as the ecosystem. The purpose of this project is to determine all the costs associated with installing and operating two power systems, a natural gas fuel cell system and a solar energy system. Assuming a twenty five hundred square foot residence, the total cost of heating and power will be determined including the specific equipment needed, installation of equipment, and finally the operating cost of the equipment. These costs will then be compared with the total costs of the conventional means for providing power and heat to residential spaces. Thermodynamic energy and entropy balance equations will be used to determine the efficiency of the conventional and renewable. These calculated values will be compared with known operating costs of renewable and conventional power sources in Savannah, Georgia. After completion of this research, consumers can be more educated about the costs of renewable heating and power systems and determine if purchasing such a system is an economically intelligent decision for them.

Victoria McCuen, Christine Mullins, Adaire Reaves

Mentor: McKinley Thomas, Health Sciences

Sexuality Education: is it Making an Impact on Adolescents’ Sexual Behavior?

Background: According to the Centers for Disease Control sexually active adolescents make up for half of all new cases of sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) annually. Purpose: The purpose of this research question is whether or not sexuality education makes an impact in reducing the number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among adolescents ages 15-19. Method: A systematic review was conducted to explore published articles examining STI rates among adolescents exposed to sexuality education compared to those without such exposure. Results: The research does not conclusively accept nor deny the claim that sexuality education in middle school or high school reduces the rates of STIs among adolescents. What was found to be of issue is that not all states have the same requirements when it comes to sexuality education and this may be the reason for so many inconsistencies and the varieties in sexuality education. The results varied for each type of sexuality health education programs used. Conclusion: At the forefront of anything to do with the education system funding and time are always an issue. With an estimated 9.8 million adolescents becoming infected with an STI annually the importance of an effective sexuality education curriculum in public schools cannot be minimized. If there is a way to get all schools to conduct similar sexuality education courses, then we may see a change in STI rates among adolescents. Hopefully a reduction.

Keri-Ann McGinn

Mentor: Ho Huynh, Psychology

You Got a Bae or Nah? Relationship Status and the Effect on Perceived Attractiveness

What effect does relationship status have on perceived attractiveness? In this study, participants (N= 331) were given a questionnaire and asked to rate one of the four pictures of moderately attractive men. The participants rated the attractiveness of the men in the pictures using five questions: three questions pertaining to visual attractiveness and two questions pertaining to physical attractiveness. The results indicated that women in a relationship gave the men lower ratings in physical attractiveness as compared to the single participants, while there was no significant difference in the ratings of visual attractiveness. These findings show evidence of women’s sensitivity to social norms, though further experiments should be conducted in this field.

^Kayla McKissick

Mentor: Ho Huynh, Psychology

The Effects of Timeouts on Psychological Momentum

Research on timeouts as a mean to stop psychological momentum has produced mix results. The purpose of this study is to analyze how timeouts affect the outcome of sports competitions. We examined archived play-by-plays of 650 NCAA women’s volleyball matches, from three different conferences, played in 2014. To study the effects of timeouts, we noted the winner of each point played immediately following a timeout. We compared the rate of scoring a point after taking a timeout (n = 5,575) to the typical success rate for a team when no timeout was taken in 75 randomly selected matches (n = 10,922). We found that, surprisingly, the two rates did not significantly differ. Given the large sample size, this study provides strong evidence against the strategy of using timeouts to slow opponents’ psychological momentum in sports.

+Esther Medrano, Savannah Chiarello

Mentor: Heather Joesting, Biology

Investigating spatial and diurnal patterns for the sand dune shrub Croton punctatus in Georgia

The coastal sand dune habitat is characterized by a unique combination of abiotic factors that vary both spatially and temporally, which can create a harsh environment for plant growth and reproduction. Thus, native sand dune plants should possess morphological and physiological adaptations to their environment. Croton punctatus is a woody shrub commonly found in the sand dune habitat of Georgia barrier islands and likely plays an important role in sand dune creation and maintenance. However, little research has been done to understand how this species adapts to the sand dune environment. The purpose of this study was to determine if there were spatial and/or diurnal patterns in leaf and plant morphology and physiology for C. punctatus on Sapelo Island, Georgia in June and July 2015. Specifically, leaf and plant morphology were compared between plants occupying windward (i.e., oceanside) and lee ward side (i.e., landward) of sand dunes to investigate potential spatial patterns, and leaf photosystem efficiency (proxy for photoinhibition) was measured every two hours to investigate potential diurnal patterns in leaf physiology. Results showed significantly larger and thicker leaves with more trichomes on top and bottom leaf surfaces in June and significantly greater plant area in July for individuals on the windward side of dunes and significantly greater leaf chlorophyll content in June for individuals on the leeward side of dunes, suggesting that there are spatial patterns in plant and leaf morphology. Furthermore, although there was a significant diurnal pattern in leaf photosystem efficiency, with decreases at midday in both June and July, results did not suggest the occurrence of substantial photoinhibition in C. punctatus in either month.

^Abigail Meert

Mentor: Allison Belzer, History

The Wandering Spirit of Eliza de Feuillide:

An in-depth analysis of the letters written by Jane Austen’s obscure and ‘outlandish’ cousin.

While modernly overshadowed by her cousin and famous novelist, Jane Austen, Eliza de Feuillide was an unconventional and undeniably revolutionary woman of the Georgian Era- transcending societal expectations and living beyond the prescriptive life. Her only surviving letters to her cousin, Phylly Walter, allow historians to reveal the typical qualities, domestic duties, and trends associated with and expected of Georgian women, while exploring Eliza’s eccentric approach to alleviate the overarching pressures in her life on issues regarding marriage, family, and international conflict. Additionally, parallels can be drawn between the characters that Jane Austen created in her novels and the temperament of her very own cousin, Eliza. Arguably the most famous Austen novel, Pride and Prejudice, not only exemplifies the similarities between Elizabeth Bennet and Eliza de Feuillide, but also reinforces the importance of family networking and communication, as seen through the inspiration Austen may have gathered from her own family.

^Morgan Moore

Mentor: Sarah Zingales, Chemistry and Physics

Evaluating Anti-Cancer Properties of Newly Synthesized Chalcones via PASS Software

While current cancer treatments can be effective in killing cancerous cells, their effects on healthy cells are often equally potent. As a result, there is a significant need for more selective therapies. Previous research has demonstrated that some chalcones, a class of organic compounds, can target cancerous cells without harming healthy cells. The primary goal of this project is to synthesize a library of new chalcones and have them evaluated for their anti-cancer properties. These chalcones are synthesized from various aldehydes and ketones via the Aldol Condensation reaction. Chalcones with different substituents can have varying levels of cytotoxicities and solubilities in our bodies. After synthesis of our chalcone analogs, we confirm their identity and purify via NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) and mass spectrometry. In order to make chalcones more soluble and thus more effective in our bodies, we reduce the chalcones that we have already synthesized via sodium borohydride. Next, we virtually screen our chalcones via PASS online, a web application that predicts the probability of having biological activity for small molecules. In silico evaluations of these compounds by PASS indicated that these compounds are likely to have anticancer properties via upregulation of apoptotic pathways. Once we determine which chalcones from our library are the most effective, we will continue to improve their structures to increase their functional capabilities as anti-cancer therapeutics.

^Lindsay Norcross

Mentor: Melanie Link-Perez, Biology

To Boldly Go Where No Elementary Classroom Has Gone Before: Beyond the Bean Seed