Fine Arts

Authors: Alexander Goslin, Hazel Ticas, Morgan Covarrubias. Mentors: Daniel Scott. Insitution: Utah Valley University. In the evolving realm of personal care product development, striking a balance between ingredient choice, manufacturing intricacies, and consumer demands is pivotal. As the industry grapples with escalating costs and the clamor for novelty, there's an imperative to find methods that refine the development pathway, keeping both product quality and cost-effectiveness in check. Machine Learning (ML) emerges as a promising contender, proposing a data-centric route to formulation - from discerning patterns to forecasting efficacies, and even creating formulas themselves. This study delves into the intricacies of leveraging ML for personal care formulations, specifically emphasizing its role in substituting ingredients to either amplify a product's qualitative facet or reduce production costs. Despite the allure of ML, its integration into personal care isn't without challenges, given the industry's unique regulatory, consumer-centric, and trend-driven landscape. Through rigorous testing, evidence-based enhancements, and in-depth analysis, we aim to shed light on ML's functional dynamics in cosmetic formulations, underscoring both its potential dividends in cost and quality.

Authors: Elise Bennett, Megan Frisby, Rob Hess, Max Taylor, Erin Riggs, Alma Laney. Mentors: Alma Laney. Insitution: Utah Valley University. Beet curly top virus (BCTV) is a highly destructive virus found in most of the Western United States characterized by curling of the leaves, yellowing, and lack of produce. Historically, BCTV was a key factor in the decline of sugar beet production in Utah, formerly a large factor in the state economy. Commonly found in beets, tomatoes, and peppers, BCT is vectored by the beet leafhopper, Circulifer tenellus, as it feeds on the phloem tissue. Novel hosts of this virus found in Utah include sunflower, mallow, eggplant, hemp, big sagebrush, and Solanum jamesii, the Four Corners potato. Sunflowers showed symptoms of curled leaves and stunting. Similarly, the eggplant developed shriveled leaves and a mosaic at the leaf tips. Four Corners potato, a staple food source of the Indigenous peoples of the Southwest, displayed strong symptoms including stunting, leaf yellowing, and leaf curling. Weedy species and other garden plants displaying various viral symptoms were also collected for testing. Detection was done using published BCTV detection primers and rolling circle amplification with the use of Phi29 polymerase to prepare the genome for whole genome sequencing. A 518 bp region was sequenced to 4x coverage from eight host samples. To ensure the validity of diagnosis, a triple antibody sandwich ELISA was performed confirming the results. Considering the history of BCTV in relation to the agriculture industry of Utah, the discovery of novel hosts is cause for concern since this virus is adaptable and limits crop yield. The diagnosis of BCTV in native plants, such as the Four Corners potato and the big sagebrush, is pressing as it these local flora are unique to the region. The verification of BCTV in these novel hosts allows for the agriculture industry of Utah to prepare prevention methods including the monitoring of beet leafhoppers and increased integrated pest management strategies are needed to protect our local environment.

Authors: Kyri Forman, Craig Thulin, Heath Ogden. Mentors: Heath Odgen. Insitution: Utah Valley University. The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) uses orange filtering pigments in the eyes to discriminate between different hues of orange and yellow and these pigments are believed to be used for deciphering wing color during mate selection (Blackiston et al., 2011). However, it is not known if these orange pigments in the eyes match those in the wings, or if they are present in the wings or eyes of the white monarch (Danaus plexippus nivosus); a variant caused by a mutation in the wing pigmentation process. For this study, pigment extracts from the wings and eyes of typical orange monarchs and white monarchs were characterized using LCMS and fragmentation MS (including MSMS and MSn) and compared. Of the seven pigments known to occur within the wings of orange monarchs (Forman and Thulin, 2022), three were found in the eyes of orange monarchs and little to none of these pigments were present in the nivosus wings or eyes. This lack of orange pigment within the eyes of white monarchs may signify possible color blindness within this mutant. This is supported by previous reports of these butterflies being less likely to breed and forage for nectar, but behavioral studies will be needed to confirm this hypothesis further.

Authors: Veronica Gunyan, Minh Nguyen. Mentors: Kevin Shurtleff. Insitution: Utah Valley University. Our team’s project green hydrogen production from plastic waste by high temperature plasma pyrolysis aims to help aid in reducing waste by taking UVU’s recycled plastic waste, decomposing it using plasma pyrolysis, and turning it into clean hydrogen and carbon in a cost-effective manner. Pyrolysis is the thermal decomposition of organic materials in an oxygen-free zone. Green hydrogen comes from renewable energy and releases no CO2 by products into the air. The purity of the hydrogen can be improved by adjusting components such as temperature in the reactor, range, the gas used, the time frame, catalysts and other operational elements. Energy prospects can be determined by considering the energy consumed subtracted by that produced to determine the net output.

Authors: Seth Stringham, Audrey Elison, Kevin Shurtleff, Dustin Shipp. Mentors: Dustin Shipp. Insitution: Utah Valley University. Graphene, a single atom thick layer of carbon, has become a focal point of research in various fields due to its unique and diverse properties. As many researchers apply new methods to develop this material, it is crucial to have tools and practices in place to determine if the newly created sample is indeed graphene. This study focuses on using a 785nm Raman Spectrometer for analyzing graphene samples. The key analysis methods used in this study are Raman spectral analysis and the construction of a Carbon Spectral Library. The Raman spectroscopy, leveraging the G and 2D bands, helps identify the structural and vibrational properties of graphene. The Carbon Spectral Library provides a comprehensive collection of Raman spectra from diverse carbon-based materials, aiding in accurate comparison and identification. The study's findings emphasize the significance of the 785nm Raman Spectrometer as an effective tool for characterizing graphene samples.

Authors: Juan Palencia, Tanner Probst, Clair Yeaman. Mentors: Machiel Van Frankenhuijsen. Insitution: Utah Valley University. Abstract: The ABC conjecture is an unsolved problem in mathematics first formulated by Joseph Oesterlé and David Masser. The conjecture attempts to show an analogy between polynomials and integers. This insight arises from the Stothers-Mason Theorem (also known as Mason’s Theorem). The theorem states that the maximum degree of a polynomial is always equal to or less than the number of distinct roots minus one. The ABC conjecture attempts to bridge this analogy by defining the height as the maximum algebraic number in the sum a + b = c where a, b and c are relatively prime. Masser and Oesterle define the radical as the sum of log p where p divides abc. Mason’s theorem states that the height is less than the radical minus one. It turns out that this is not true for the integers. Thus Masser and Oesterle formulated a conjecture which may be true. Over the past decades, this inequality has been strengthened and reformulated. Shinichi Mochizuki has recently published what he claims to be a proof of the conjecture, but many mathematicians are currently still working to understand it. The aim of our research is to better understand the height and radical in the ABC conjecture. In addition, we intend to explore the possibilities of expanding the Stothers-Mason Theorem. Since the ABC conjecture is concerned with an analogy between commutative rings (integers and polynomials), we are interested in seeing whether Mason’s Theorem for polynomials also holds for non-commutative rings, such as matrix rings and the ring of quaternions. In addition, we intend to explore the connection between the factorization of polynomials and finite Abelian groups.

Authors: Fatoumata N'diaye, Kevin Shurtleff. Mentors: Kevin Shurtleff. Insitution: Utah Valley University. The use of solar energy for water purification purposes has proven to be an efficient tool with promising results which could help tackle the issue of water scarcity in developing regions of the world. The low-cost, solar water purification system built previously will be improved through increasing thermal conduction, enhancement of the water flow uniformity, strengthening of the piping system, increasing airflow inside the water purification system, and thus maximizing the clean water production rate. We used aluminum foil as the condensation surface with silicone caulk as a binding agent between the materials. We used ultra-violet resistant greenhouse plastic film to protect the purifier overall from sunlight damage. We measured the incident solar irradiance, airflow inside the purifier, temperature of the evaporation side, temperature of the condensation side, ambient temperature outside, conductivity of the dirty and clean water, and clean water quality/taste. Finally, we compared this data to previously collected data.

Authors: Euiyoung Kim, Bonnie Anderson. Mentors: Bonnie Anderson. Insitution: Utah Valley University. A thermoacoustic engine is designed to transfer heat energy into sound energy. Heat engines have a hot side (hot heat exchanger) and a cold side (cold heat exchanger) and use part of the heat flowing between them to do work. The engine in this study is shaped like a bottle with copper wire mesh heat exchangers in the neck. A heating element wrapped around the top of the neck supplies heat to the hot side and the base of the bottle is made of aluminum to keep the cold side at room temperature. When the temperature on the hot side reaches a threshold the sound wave is created. The heat goes from the mesh of the hot side into the “stack” (steel wool, in this case) and down to the cold mesh. The motion of air as it picks up and drops off heat along the stack excites the engine into one of its resonant frequencies. Different mesh configurations of the heat exchangers were tested to determine the impact on the acoustic properties of the engine. Principal Component Analysis was used to determine which parameters of the mesh affected the acoustic pressure the most. The outcomes of this research not only contribute to the emerging field of thermoacoustics but also provide valuable knowledge for the development of thermal sensors and electric energy in remote locations.

Authors: Silvi Rouskin, Matthew Allan, Dragui Salazar. Mentors: Merrill Halling. Insitution: Utah Valley University. A 3’ untranslated region (UTR) is a non-coding region between the stop codon and the 3’ end of an mRNA. 3’ UTR can regulate post-transcriptional gene expression by influencing mRNA stability, translation, and localization. They fold into complex structures that contain elements and binding sites that interact with various molecules, including proteins and microRNAs (miRNAs). Despite the recognized importance of 3’ UTRs and their structural features, the vast majority of their structures in humans remain unknown. Indeed, the structures of long RNAs in general have been difficult to solve due to their heterogeneity and to the paucity of known, ground-truth RNA structures for training and validating models. This project aims to circumvent these limitations by characterizing the structures of 3,000 to 4,000 human 3’ UTRs. The project can be simply described as follows. The cDNA is received and prepared for PCR with the needed primers. After the PCR, genetic material is transcribed into RNA where dimethyl sulfate mutational profiling with sequencing (DMS-MapSeq) will be introduced. After this, it is reverse transcribed and prepared for sequencing. The project implements thousands of primers to facilitate the comprehensive identification of genes. The vast dataset of structure profiles will be used to develop an advanced machine learning algorithm to predict first the DMS-MapSeq results and eventually the structure of an RNA solely from its sequence. The preliminary results show that it is possible to determine hundreds, even thousands of 3’ UTR structures using DMS-MapSeq and the creating an accurate image of such structure. These results also contain druggable pockets that can be used in RNA based therapeutics in a near future.

Authors: Stone Smith, Ben Belt. Mentors: Sally Rocks. Insitution: Utah Valley University. Microplastics are particles less than 5 mm in length. These particles act as a vector for heavy metal and carcinogens, which have negative effects on human health. Often invisible to the naked eye, microplastics are extremely mobile and have been found in the most extreme parts of the planet, from the peak of Mount Everest to depths of the Mariana trench. Because microplastics are readily transported via air and water, microplastics have been found in every location exposed to wind or rain. However, one place that is sheltered from wind and rain are caves. In some subterranean environments, the earth acts as a natural filter of the water that descends into caves. It is suspected that caves will have lower levels of microplastics present in their environments compared to surface environments. However, another mechanism for microplastic introduction is human activity. Humans utilize plastics in relatively all synthetic items. Everything from clothing to packaging to regular household items employs the use of plastics, which can abrade to release microplastics. The goal of this research is to determine if caves with high levels of human visitation have higher concentrations of microplastics than caves with little to no human visitation. Analysis of subterranean water samples will reveal if microplastics are invading cave environments regardless of human activity, and through what mechanisms. A consequence of microplastic pollution in cave environments is the capture of plastic particles within mineral matrices. As mineral rich water evaporates in caves, the minerals left behind form speleothems that could capture plastic particles and thus preserve them (e.g. stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, etc.). With a better understanding of the presence or absence of microplastics in caves, efforts can be made to minimize plastic accumulation and prevent microplastics from entering the geologic record of the cave.

Authors: Iris Cepeda, Tabitha Weir, Jonathan Cook, Honey Ordonez. Mentors: Olga Kopp. Insitution: Utah Valley University. Solanum lycopersicum (tomatoes), are beloved herbaceous crops well known for their red bearing fruits. They are best grown in well-draining soils with access to full sun and are endemic to South America but grow all across the world where the conditions allow. Tomato fruits provide a quality source of phytochemicals and antioxidants such as lycopene, vitamin C, beta-carotene, and phenolic compounds which can substantially improve one’s healthy diet. S. lycopersicum are members of the nightshade family, which are known for their production of often toxic glycoalkaloids. The presence of these compounds usually deters herbivores by increasing their concentration as a defense response. There are, however, herbivores like Manduca sexta (tobacco hornworms) that feed on members of the nightshade family by dealkylating these glycoalkaloids. It is hypothesized that plants have the ability to modulate their defensive response based on queues from the environment and from their herbivore pests. Our research objective is to determine whether a S. lycopersicum plant undergoing defoliation from M. sexta will have the same molecular response as a plant undergoing simulated herbivory. Four treatment groups will be used with each treatment group having 8 replicates. Before treatment begins, the groups will be isolated by a non-permeable surface so air-borne defense signals from one group do not elicit a response in another. In the herbivory treatment group, M. sexta will be allowed to feed for a 24-hour period to account for diurnal and nocturnal herbivory, as well as high plant enzymatic response. Damage treatment 1 will simulate herbivory using a hole-punch, avoiding the midvein. Damage treatment 2 will simulate herbivory using a single transverse cut across the leaf blade and midvein. The undamaged control will have no herbaceous or mechanical damage done. After the treatment period, half of the leaf matter from all groups will be collected and frozen in liquid nitrogen to preserve all metabolic processes and GCMS will be used to analysis metabolite differences. The other half of the leaf matter will be analyzed using UV-spectrophotometer analysis with bromocresol green to compare the glycoalkaloid expression between the treatments. It’s expected that there will be a reduced expression of the defense glycoalkaloids in the herbivory group of S. lycopersium when compared to the two defoliation groups. While the three treatments could respond similarly to their treatments by primary metabolite expression, the type of defoliation could have a greater effect on this than the herbivory group.

Authors: Haylee Beck, Lauren Weidner, Carl E Hjelmen. Mentors: Carl E Hjelmen. Insitution: Utah Valley University. Blow flies, scientifically known as family Calliphoridae, are important primary colonizers of remains that play a crucial role in decomposition, making them useful in forensic investigations for estimating a time of colonization (TOC). Unfortunately, there is little information on the species and distributions of blow flies present in Utah. Our research seeks to address this issue through collection, preservation, and identification of these blow flies. To collect the specimens, traps baited with chicken liver were set up in various locations across Salt Lake and Utah Counties. While we have only collected from these two counties thus far, our intention is to gather flies across the state, spanning both rural and urban environments. We will then use standard metrics of diversity to compare the species makeup in each location. The results of our research offer significant insights into the biodiversity, distribution, and ecological functions of these flies and their development in different ecosystems. In addition, this research has far-reaching implications in the field of forensics. These findings will contribute significantly to our understanding of blow fly distribution and behavior, providing valuable information for forensic investigations in our region.

Authors: Thomas Caldwell. Mentors: Dustin Shipp. Insitution: Utah Valley University. In this research project, we have transformed an existing Raman spectroscopy simulation, enhancing its performance and capabilities through the integration of parallel computing with GPU acceleration. This significant improvement in computational time allows us to break through previous computational limitations, enabling more sophisticated and complex applications of the simulation. We are currently focused on two main objectives: assessing the viability and potential of spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) for deeper tissue analysis, and exploring the possibilities of topographical imaging using Raman techniques.

Authors: Jaylee Montague, Skylar Belka, Gabe Espinoza, Geoff Zahn, Alma Laney. Mentors: Alma Laney. Insitution: Utah Valley University. In May of 2022, a several unidentified trees on Utah Valley University (UVU) campus property exhibited severe virus-like symptoms including: mosaic patterning; yellowing, curling, deformed leaves; and flaking bark. Due to the presence of unidentified aphids and after a literature search, we began investigating the sample for a +ssRNA virus. Extensive testing and RNA sequencing using the MinION v9.4.1 and the cDNA PCR Barcoding kit revealed that neither a ssRNA nor a dsRNA virus were present in the samples, thus, it was suspected that a DNA virus could be the cause. We utilized Rolling Circle Amplification (RCA) on extracted DNA. Following the RCA, gel electrophoresis revealed a strong amplicon larger than 10 kb, suggesting the presence of a DNA virus. Sequencing of the viral genome from the RCA product using the MinION vs10.4.1 chip showed that the mulberry did contain baculoviruses and large DNA viruses. Unfortunately, though, the MinION did not get results for DNA plant viruses, so we sent samples for RNAseq on the Illumina NovaSeq, with results still pending. This is significant since it is likely that the other symptomatic plants near these trees—including redbud and spirea—were infected with the same virus due to RCA amplification in those samples and the presence of the same potential aphid vector. Mechanical inoculations to several herbaceous hosts were done using infected spirea tissue. Furthermore, to our knowledge this is the first report of a DNA virus infecting spirea and redbud in the United States.

Authors: Cristina Chirvasa, Tyler Williams, Matteo Petit Bon. Mentors: Karen Beard. Insitution: Utah State University. Arctic regions are experiencing climate change impacts at disproportionately high rates. Rising temperatures, flooding from melting sea ice and increasing storm surges, and changing animal migration patterns are all contributing to altered Arctic ecosystems. Here, we examine the impact of warming, flooding, and increased herbivory on three plant communities, with varying levels of background inundation due to their distance from rivers, in the Yukon-Kuskokwim (Y-K) delta, a large riverine delta in Alaska. While previous research has examined climate change responses in the Arctic, there have been few studies on the response of plant functional traits to herbivory with other environmental factors. We will conduct an experiment to measure the impact of these variables (herbivory, flooding, and warming) across three different habitat types. My research will investigate the response of plant functional traits to the experimental treatments. I will fit linear mixed effects models to analyze the impact of our three treatments. This study will increase knowledge on climate change impacts on different plant communities across the Y-K Delta.

Authors: Jacob Atkinson. Mentors: Vinodh Chellamuthu. Insitution: Utah Tech University. Insurance is a crucial part of economies worldwide, paying billions of dollars in claims yearly. Insurance companies need to anticipate future claim liabilities to manage the high volume of claims. This research investigates the use of linear and non-linear machine learning algorithms, including linear regression, ridge, lasso, elastic net, Decision Tree Regressor, Random Forest Regressor, and Gradient Boosting Regressor, to predict auto insurance claim amounts. The performance of each model is assessed using various metrics, such as mean squared errors, mean absolute errors, and R-squared. An optimized model will also be used to estimate the future financial impact.

Authors: Rebecca Burton. Mentors: Doug Tree. Insitution: Brigham Young University. Programmable control of colloidal particles is important in various micro and nanoscale applications, including dynamic materials, targeted drug delivery, and nanorobotics. Current top-down manipulation methods, such as optical tweezers, offer control over a limited number of particles, restricting their applicability. Alternatively, active matter demonstrates self-assembly of numerous particles, exhibiting intriguing phase behavior such as clustering and collective rotation. However, active matter is more difficult to control. In this study, we hypothesize that introducing a controllable and chemically active "herder" particle to an active matter system will enable us to combine the precision of top-down control methods with the natural collective behavior of active matter. Specifically, we employ 2D Brownian Dynamics simulations to model the dynamic interactions among active Brownian particles. The herder emits a chemical gradient, causing a direct effect on the self-propulsion of surrounding particles. Localized alterations in reactivity result in a distinct phase transition near the herder. By focusing on the collective state of the particle system rather than individual particles, we attain a substantial scaling-up of user control over colloid behavior.

Authors: Baylee Christensen, Reagan Mckee, Dante Celani, Candice Johnson, Randy Klabacka. Mentors: Randy Klabacka. Insitution: Utah Tech University. When studying the genetics of biological systems, we often assign individuals to categories (e.g., “ecotypes”) and then assess genetic differences using computational biology tools. If populations within categories are used as units in statistical models, this can present a potential statistical pitfall called pseudo-replication (which happens when multiple measurements of the same population are compared). To circumvent this flaw, we developed a software package called CatPop. CatPop considers all possible population assignments (using combinatorics) and performs a permutation test to determine whether a locus has significantly greater divergence between groups compared to within the same group. Our test of CatPop on simulated data shows that it can accurately identify divergent loci between categories, and we also examine its utility with previously-published datasets that examine divergence between ecotypes.

Authors: Haley LeFevre, Julie Pynn. Mentors: Julie Pynn. Insitution: Southern Utah University. Loneliness is a perceived isolation resulting from a lack of meaningful social connections. The COVID-19 pandemic increased rates of loneliness for many people, including college students. At the same time, internet use also went up. As loneliness and internet use increased, many people turned to parasocial relationships, forming one-sided emotional connections with online content creators and celebrities. Do students at SUU use parasocial relationships to cope with loneliness? We predict that students at SUU who are experiencing loneliness will be more likely to engage in parasocial relationships. Understanding how people interact with online content and develop relationships with online personalities is essential for promoting digital literacy and positive online behavior as internet usage grows. This research can explain the significance of digital media in students' lives if SUU students are using parasocial relationships to deal with loneliness. In that case, the university can create specialized support programs, workshops, or counseling services to assist students in making more effective coping strategies and minimizing feelings of isolation. Results are forthcoming.

Authors: Leif Ravnsen. Mentors: Scott Abbott. Insitution: Utah Valley University. After years of drought and water mismanagement Great Salt Lake is facing a crisis that is and will continue to directly affect everyone that lives along the Wasatch Front. As the water levels recede and expose the lakebed, the toxic materials within are disturbed out of the parched ground to poison our air. This issue also impacts our famous snow, as the lake moisture which would help rejuvenate our water supply diminishes into a feedback loop of ever increasing scarcity. According to a scientific report published on BYU’s website, our best hope for averting this crisis is water conservation. This project aims to accomplish two broad goals to help educate people about the need for this conversation: examine the issues surrounding the crisis within an interdisciplinary framework and create more ways for people to connect personally with Great Salt Lake. This project leverages many different perspectives and methods toward these ends, with theological appeals, expert interviews, examinations of the ecological and cultural impacts, comparisons to contemporary conservation efforts, focus articles on the local flora and fauna, and creative works in various formats. The Lake of Salt website will be added to the network of conservationists working toward the positive resolution of this ecological crisis, to help shed the fog of apathy and bring more hands to this great, but not insurmountable, task.

Authors: Atira Schulte. Mentors: Michael Popich. Insitution: Westminster College. We live in an environmental crisis caused by mass overconsumption and non-sustainable practices of humans- issues rooted in anthropocentric beliefs that humans may use all other life to our benefit with no regard for consequences. Animals and ecosystems have the right to exist and flourish, they have intrinsic worth, so they ought to have moral standing. This research aimed to build a new ethical theory that would extend the same rights humans are widely considered to have to other animals and ecosystems; especially citing Martha Nussbaum, James Sterba, and John O’Neill. The age-old desire to dominate nature must be replaced with a newfound respect and wonder for non-human life and the environment; Reframing our methods of thinking and moving towards more sustainable methods of living. Only by changing the mindset of humans, from one of domination and exploitation to stewardship and coexistence-even friendship, can we resolve this environmental crisis.

Authors: Kathryn Hales. Mentors: Sarah Steimel. Insitution: Weber State University. College students are exposed to a lot of stress, and it can impact their college experience and success. This mixed-methods study helps explain how current Weber State students’ communication with faculty is affected by stressors. Students responded to a survey we created by compiling questions from four existing studies. They answered questions on how they experience and respond to stress and how they communicate in the classroom. Interviews were also conducted to gain a more in-depth understanding of what instructors do, and whether it is helpful or not for relieving stress in the classroom. The results show statistical evidence of a relationship between stress and the type of communication students will engage in with their instructors. Instructors’ preparedness and style of communication also influences a student’s willingness to participate and communicate with their instructor.

Authors: Tyler Randall. Mentors: Joshua Price. Insitution: Southern Utah University. This research paper investigates the relationship between men's consumption of pornography and its potential influence on women's decisions regarding marriage. In an era of increasing acceptance of pornography, this study delves into the socio-economic implications of its widespread usage. The research builds upon existing literature that suggests individuals turn to pornography as an escape from negative emotional state. As internet pornography has grown into a big industry, we aim to understand its impacts not only individuals but also on society. Numerous studies have found that pornography as a factor contributing to divorce cases. Specifically, women may perceive pornography as a form of infidelity, which is shown to lead to unhappiness and potentially divorce. Our research contributes to the field by examining the distinct needs and motivations of men and women in the context of marriage. We seek to determine whether men's pornography consumption leads women to view them as less suitable for marriage. We explore the possibility that men may be giving up their ability to be an attractive option for women if they are looking at pornography.

Authors: Joshua Booher. Mentors: Jacob Hickman. Insitution: Brigham Young University. Musicians in Northern Ireland described the space and community that they were actively trying to build in Belfast as “the Third Thing”. In Belfast, music has remained as an alternative third space to the sectarian dualism of Protestant vs Catholics. Since before the Easter Rising in 1916 Catholic Nationalists have fought to obtain sovereignty by establishing a United Ireland while Protestant Unionist fight to retain what they have obtained and defend king and country from Nationalist siege. Their opposition to each other fueled The Troubles in Belfast. Since signing the good Friday agreement in 1998, active tension between these communities still creates further divides and oppositions toward their counterparts. The Good Friday Agreement ostensibly marked the end of the Troubles by providing equal sovereignty to both sides. In Belfast, music has played a significant role in anti-sectarian thirdness. Punk fostered this thirdness within the conflict of the Troubles through its references by way of its anti-sectarian framework. In contemporary Belfast, the residual punk scene now serves as one genre of many in the broader music scene. This music scene has now been self proclaimed as this “third thing” which pushes back on implosive sectarian frameworks between Catholic and Protestant communities.

Authors: Joshua Zander, Angel Rodriguez, Mason Davis, Edwin Nazario Dejesus, Mohammad Shekaramiz, Mohammad A S Masoum, Abdennour Seibi. Mentors: Mohammad Shekaramiz. Insitution: Utah Valley University. The proposed approach of using computer vision and autonomous drones for inspecting small wind turbines is a significant step towards improving the efficiency and safety of wind turbine inspections. The use of DJI Mini 3 Pro and Matrice 300 drones in conjunction with DJI’s Mobile SDK, which allows for programmed flights, enables the drones to fly autonomously and capture high-quality images of the wind turbines. The images are then processed using object detection with YOLOv8, which can accurately detect the turbines. Navigation is based on both GPS and object detection, which ensures that the drones can navigate accurately and avoid any obstacles. The proposed approach is expected to reduce the cost and time required for wind turbine inspections, while also improving the accuracy of the inspection process. This approach can be used to inspect wind turbines in remote locations, which are difficult to access, and can help identify any issues with the turbines before they become major problems.The proposed approach has the potential to revolutionize the wind energy industry by making wind turbine inspections more efficient and cost-effective. The use of computer vision and autonomous drones can help reduce the need for human intervention in the inspection process, which can be dangerous and time-consuming. The proposed approach can also help improve the accuracy of the inspection process by providing high-quality images of the turbines. This can help identify any issues with the turbines before they become major problems, which can help reduce the risk of accidents and improve the safety of the wind energy industry.

Authors: Grace Collier, Sadee Ball, Shelby Shepherd, Madi Kotter, Sierra Jeppesen, Tanner Wilson. Mentors: Julie Pynn. Insitution: Southern Utah University. ABSTRACTA large body of research indicates that nature has a positive effect on anxiety levels and overall well-being. This has been tested in many different ways, including through the use of soundscapes. This study aims to analyze how different soundscapes—nature sounds, urban sounds, and white noise—impact anxiety levels. Furthermore, it aims to determine whether or not this relates to one’s perception of origin. Quantitative results indicated that nature sounds and white noise tended to reduce anxiety levels the most, with urban sounds having an insignificant effect. Qualitative results revealed that nature sounds evoked the highest rate of positive emotion, with the white noise soundscape having the second highest rate, and the urban soundscape having the lowest rate. Keywords: soundscapes, nature sounds, urban sounds, white noise, anxiety, perception of origin

Authors: Leif Ravnsen

Authors: Hunter Gordon. Mentors: Geoff Smith. Insitution: Utah Tech University. Precipitation and temperature represent two of the most critical and extensively studied abiotic factors that impact ectotherms. With climate change, regions already under stress are experiencing heightened heat and aridity, which is forcing populations to adapt or face extinction. Scalation patterns, which may vary in response to these abiotic factors, could hold valuable insights for predicting the future. This study focuses on Side-blotched lizards, specifically Uta stansburiana, sampled from various populations to assess the influence of local climatic factors on their scalation. Additionally, museum specimens are integrated into the analysis to discern how these patterns have evolved over time, possibly in response to shifting climatic conditions. Through the examination of multiple locations spanning different time periods, we aim to enhance our ability to forecast the adaptive responses of organisms in the face of the hotter and drier future predicted by climate models for the American Southwest.

Authors: Alyssa Taylor. Mentors: Dr. Marquez-Velarde . Insitution: Utah State University. Athletics United (AU) is a non-profit organization in Logan, Utah dedicated to using “sport to provide a supportive environment for new American families to integrate with local communities for personal, physical and social growth” (https://www.athleticsunited.us/). To this point, AU lacks meaningful research to measure its progress in meeting its mission statement. In order to qualify and quantify AU’s impact, this project investigates question: “Does Athletics United help families integrate into local communities and how?” Athletics United integrates families into the community by providing a space to build friendships, expand one’s world view, and access community resources. During Summer of 2023, nine families participating in AU were interviewed. A mix of American and new American families were recruited. Four interviewees required an interpreter. Interviews are being qualitatively analyzed using NVivo. The interview data confirms that Athletics United integrates families into the community by providing a space to build friendships, expand one’s world view, and access community resources. To further improve, AU can consider assigning volunteers to help new American families participate in events and access resources more consistently.

Authors: Amanda Kanno Davis. Mentors: Jerry Petersen. Insitution: Utah Valley University. In December of 1941, following the attack by the nation of Japan on Pearl Harbor, the United States experienced a period of anti-Japanese sentiment which was directed at both Japanese immigrants as well as Japanese-American citizens. The rhetorical theories of Aristotle, Lloyd Bitzer, Kenneth Burke, and Byron Hawke show that the United States government actively participated in the anti-Japanese hysteria of World War II through its use of propaganda, executive orders, and public proclamations. The result of this hysteria was the breach of civil liberties for over 120,000 Japanese people, approximately two-thirds of whom were American citizens. This research demonstrates the rhetorical methods employed by the U.S. government and examines modern-day concerns regarding the possibility of recurrence.

Authors: Kennley Cook. Mentors: Crystal Koenig. Insitution: Southern Utah University. This research examines a brief history of pornography and then the porn industry itself. Specifically what has been driving men and women to perform lewd acts in front of a camera. It explores the mental, emotional, and social impacts that porn stars face from their line of work. The early days of the porn industry were permissive with acts that are considered highly immoral by today’s standards. Early porn included bestiality, child sex abuse, and highly violent pornography. While such acts have been illegalized, the industry continues to be exploitative. The ease of exploitation in the industry is largely driven by the stigma which pornography carries. Those who perform in pornographic settings are often shamed so much that it drives them to stay in the industry long after they may have wished to depart. While porn has always been taboo, it’s become far more taboo in recent years which has left many workers in the industry unprotected and open to abuse. Despite many of the dangers of pornography, porn itself is not inherently evil. In proper settings, pornography can be helpful for individuals in coming to terms with their sexuality. It can also be used to help couples equalize libidos and form bonds. It can also be liberating for some performers, with some research even suggesting porn stars have higher self esteem than those not in the porn industry . The dangers of pornography come about due to lack of regulation and outside shaming forces. To truly minimize the harms of pornography (and maximize its benefits), it’s crucial that the stigmas surrounding it be reduced so that laws and regulations may be enforced to protect its performers and viewers.

Authors: Hunter Gordon, Jace Riley, McCade Larsen. Mentors: Aaron Davis. Insitution: Utah Tech University. Tracking animal populations is key to ensuring that populations are healthy and thriving. Current data collection methods, such as radio tagging, manned aerial flyovers, and camera traps, are not only time-consuming and expensive but also fail to provide accurate population estimates. This interdisciplinary research project aims to produce a more accurate and less expensive data collection system for large game populations that could potentially be used to monitor other animal populations. The planned procedure for data collection is to attach a thermal imaging device to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and perform aerial transects throughout the observation area. Using a thermal camera will allow the UAV to fly at a higher altitude, lessening the disturbance to the animals themselves. The imaging device will take images at a set time interval along transects that can be stitched into a complete data set for the area. By using image processing techniques and deep learning models, the images will be processed to show the location as well as population counts of the animals in the area. Results from similar experiments have shown that using UAVs to collect population data not only provides more accurate data but also requires less time overall to collect the data.[1] This experiment expands upon those findings by creating automatic image processing and analysis software to increase the ease of use, allowing for more data to be collected and analyzed in the same time period.

Authors: Parker Graves, Landon Deru, Bruce Bailey. Mentors: Bruce Bailey. Insitution: Brigham Young University. Chronic illness such as strokes, heart disease and diabetes all rank among the leading causes of death in the United States. Recently, fasting has gained popularity as a means of preventing and treating chronic illness. PURPOSE: Fasting produces multiple beneficial physiological responses that have been shown to aid in chronic disease prevention, one of which is observed in relation to incretin hormones such as glucose-dependent insulin tropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). These incretin hormones are released by the gut to augment the secretion of insulin to regulate postprandial glucose levels. During a fast, the decrease in incretin hormones, and resultant insulin levels can aid the body to regain insulin sensitivity. This can lead to more effective blood glucose management and chronic illness prevention. The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of an acute 24-hour fast started with either a high fat (HF) or high carbohydrate (HC) meal on plasma GIP and GLP-1. METHODS: Subjects were over the age of 55, had a BMI equal to or greater than 27, and had no diagnosed metabolic disorders or some other disqualifying medical issues. Using a randomized crossover design, each participant performed two 24-hour fasts. One fast beginning with a high carbohydrate meal and the other a high fat meal, both of equal calories. Venous blood draws were taken at 0, 1, 24, and 48 hours. RESULTS: GIP and GLP-1 (P < 0.001) were both elevated 1 hour after consuming the pre-fast meal in both conditions. In addition, both GIP (P = 0.0122) and GLP-1 (P = 0.0068) were higher in the high fat condition compared to the high carbohydrate condition at 1 hour. There were no significant differences between conditions for either GIP or GLP-1 at any other time point. CONCLUSION: As expected, both incretin hormones spiked postprandially. We did find that GIP and GLP-1 levels were significantly higher at 1-hour postprandial for the HF meal compared to the HC meal. This could give evidence to show how macronutrient levels can affect incretin secretion and alter sensitivity to insulin. However, the impact of the pre-fast meal on GLP-1 and GIP did not persist throughout the fast.

Authors: Leila Moore, Marin Farnsworth. Mentors: Tyson Harmon. Insitution: Brigham Young University. Background:Facial expressions are crucial for understanding human emotions in communication. Coding and quantifying these expressions, however, have often been subjective, leading to issues with reliability and consistency (Kring and Sloan, 2007). To address this, we have modified the Facial Expression Coding System (FACES) protocol (Kring and Sloan, 2007), which traditionally relies on subjective interpretation. Our modified protocol employs a more objective approach by quantifying facial expressions based on the counting of facial units (e.g., eyes, corners of the mouth, eyebrows, and teeth). Each intensity rating corresponds to a certain number of facial units. For example, an expression involving one facial unit would receive an intensity rating of one whereas an expression involving two units would receive an intensity rating of two. Multiple studies have found that women are more emotionally expressive than men overall when considering gestures, body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice (Ashmore, 1990; Brody & Hall, 1993; Hall, 1984). Rather than focusing on overall emotional expressiveness, though, the present study aims to understand how gender impacts the production of emotional facial expressions specifically. Method:The proposed study aims to compare the frequency and intensity of facial expressions produced by men versus women when recounting personal narratives. Participants. Video footage from participants with and without aphasia producing personal narrative discourse will be obtained for equal numbers of male and female participants. Samples will include two personal narratives in response to prompts from the interviewer. The first prompt is to speak of an experience the participant has had with illness/injury/stroke, and the second prompt is to talk about an important event that has happened in their life. Procedure. A modified FACES protocol will be used to code facial expressions in videos obtained from AphasiaBank. The coding process is conducted with the audio muted to help eliminate distractions. The modified FACES protocol includes specific, operationalized criteria for what qualifies as a facial expression. This protocol does not include coding non-facial gestures or eye movements. However, we do take into account the narrowing and widening of eyes in addition to instances when the eyes are opened or closed with intention. A critical question we ask during coding is whether the facial expression conveys emotional content. We have established standards for intensity ratings and will outline how we arrived at these standards, as well as the distinctions between intensity ratings one, two, three, and four. The analysis process includes establishing a baseline expression for each participant and coding for 20 minutes before taking a break to maintain energy and productivity and to ensure accuracy in data collection. Additionally, secondary coding and a final pass for gestalt ratings are performed to ensure comprehensive analysis.Data Analysis. To address our research questions, we will conduct a comprehensive analysis, focusing on our participants' facial expressiveness during personal narrative storytelling. The analysis will involve quantifying the frequency of facial expressions exhibited by the participants. Additionally, we will consider the valence of these expressions, distinguishing between positive and negative emotional content. We will also assess the intensity of facial expressions by counting the number of facial units engaged during each expression. This examination of facial data will allow us to discern not only the prevalence of expressions but also emotional content and intensity, ultimately providing a more in-depth understanding of the gender differences in non-verbal communication during personal narratives.Anticipated Results:Our study aims to explore if there is a statistically significant difference in the quantity, valence, and intensity of facial expressions between men and women. By using a standardized approach for measuring emotional facial expression production, we hope to shed light on the nuances of non-verbal communication during personal narratives and contribute to a better understanding of gender differences in emotional expression. Consistent with previous research, we anticipate that females will produce more frequent and intense emotional facial expressions than males (Ashmore, 1990; Brody & Hall, 1993; Hall, 1984).References:Ashmore, R. D. (1990). Sex, gender, and the individual. In L. A. Pervin (Ed.), Handbook of personality: Theory and research (pp. 486-526). New York: Guilford Press.Brody, L. R., & Hall, J. A. (1993). Gender and emotion. In M. Lewis & J. M. Haviland (Eds.), Handbook of emotions (pp. 447-460). New York: Guilford Press.Hall, J. A. (1984). Nonverbal sex differences: Communication accuracy and expressive style. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press.Kring, A. M., & Sloan, D. M. (2007). The facial expression coding system (FACES): Development, validation, and utility. Psychological Assessment, 19(2), 210–224. https://doi.org/10.1037/1040-3590.19.2.210.

Authors: Jayden Peacock. Mentors: Jodi Corser. Insitution: Southern Utah University. Healthcare access disparities remain a persistent and pressing issue in the community, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. These disparities include aspects such as geographic location, socioeconomic standing, and ethnicity, all of which can hinder individual and societal growth. Addressing these disparities is vital as it can improve the well-being of individuals and therefore society. Examining the nature of healthcare access disparities helps present a holistic approach that can help bridge the gap, providing a more equitable healthcare system. Healthcare disparities are deeply embedded in the network of social and structural inequalities, driven by a complex interplay of geographical, economic, and cultural factors. Such disparities create health gaps, where individuals from marginalized communities are disproportionately burdened by a lack of access to essential medical services. The historical neglect of underserved communities has contributed to the persistence of these disparities, necessitating a comprehensive and transformative approach to address the problem.Effectively combating healthcare access disparities includes implementing community involvement that empowers underserved communities, enacting healthcare policy reforms to address systemic barriers, and leveraging locum tenens to improve access to care in all areas. Addressing these aspects will lead to a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system, that results in improved health outcomes and well-being for all individuals. Addressing healthcare access disparities is essential for individual and community improvement. Through community engagement, healthcare reforms, and the use of locum tenens a comprehensive approach can be represented in regards to a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system.

Authors: Ken Dixon, Jack Davis, DeLayney Anderson, Mackenzie Burr, Peyton Worley, Isaac Packer, Bridger Kearns, Jeffrey Okojie. Mentors: Jared Barrott. Insitution: Brigham Young University. IntroductionPersonalized cancer care requires molecular characterization of neoplasms. While the research community accepts frozen tissues as the gold standard analyte for molecular assays, the source of tissue for all testing of tumor tissue in clinical cancer care comes almost universally from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue (FFPE). Specific to genomics assays, numerous studies have shown significant discordance in genetic information obtained from FFPE samples and cryopreserved samples. To explain the discordance between FFPE samples and cryopreserved samples, a head-to-head comparison between FFPE and cryopreserved tissues was performed to analyze the DNA yield, DNA purity, and DNA quality in terms of DNA length.MethodsHuman (n = 48) and murine tissues (n = 10) were processed by traditional formalin fixation and paraffin embedding or placed in cryovials containing HypoThermosol solution. 19 human-matched samples were included. These cryovials were cooled to -80°C slowly and stored in liquid nitrogen until the time of the study. DNA was extracted using the same protocol for both tissue types except that tissues embedded in paraffin were first dewaxed using a xylene substitute followed by a multistep rehydration protocol using ethanol and water. Samples were weighed and calibrated to have the same starting mass. After the column purification, samples were eluted in 20 µL and concentration and purity were measured on a Nanodrop. Purity was determined by calculating the 260/280 ratio. DNA fragment length was measured on an Agilent Fragment Microelectrophoresis Analyzer.ResultsGraded amounts of tumor tissue (5- >50 mg) were used to determine the lowest starting material needed to extract 40 ng/mg of DNA. The average for both sample types reached the minimal threshold of 40 ng/mg. However, 74% of FFPE specimens failed to meet the minimum 40 ng/mg, whereas only 21% were below the threshold in the cryopreserved samples (Figure 1). In the cryopreserved group, the average DNA yield was 222.1 ng/mg, whereas 52.8 ng/mg was obtained from FFPE tissue. For DNA purity in cryopreserved tissues, the 260/280 ratio range was 1.09-2.13 with a mean of 1.79. The 260/280 ratio range in FFPE tissues was 0.85-2.76 with a mean of 1.65 (Figure 2). The DNA Quality Number(DQN) is a measurement of DNA fragment length and the percentage that exceeds the threshold of 300 bp. For FFPE, the DQN was 4.4 compared to a DQN of 9.8 for the cryopreserved samples (Figure 3). Setting a higher threshold of DNA length to 40,000 bp and measuring the area under the curve (AUC), it was observed that cryopreserved samples were 9-fold higher in fragments greater than 40,000 bp (Figure 4).ConclusionsCryopreserved cancer tissue provides superior quality assurance measurements of DNA over FFFPE. Treatment decisions based on molecular results demand accuracy and validity. The pathology community should support efforts to cryopreserve cancer biospecimens in the clinical setting to provide valid molecular testing results. The automatic pickling of tumor specimens in formalin is no longer an acceptable default.

Authors: Ashley Allan, Mikayla Kimball, Noah Bezzant, Brent Feland, Josh Sponbeck. Mentors: Brent Feland. Insitution: Brigham Young University. BACKGROUND: Recent studies have shown that there are differences bilaterally in the cross sectional area of the patellar tendon for lead vs non lead extremities of athletes. Yet, little research can be found as to whether there is a difference that develops over one’s lifetime between the stiffness of the patellar tendons in the dominant vs non-dominant legs. Reliability has not yet been established for elastography in the patellar tendons, so we are continuously striving to gather more reliable data on shear-wave elastography of the patellar tendon. PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to assess whether there is a difference in the average patellar tendon stiffness as measured by ultrasound elastography using a pad vs no pad and differences between self reported non-dominant vs dominant knee of senior athletes over the age of 50. Dominance taken as reported in a modified KOOS (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score) survey. METHODS: Data was collected from 15 active, senior aged volunteers at the Huntsman World Senior Games in St George, Utah, 2023. All subjects (mean age= 67.29 ± 6.26 yrs, height=175.44 ± 8.18 cm, weight=87.40 ± 12.21 kg) signed an approved consent and completed a modified KOOS survey. Following, they were seated on a table, with their backs against the wall directly behind them. They were seated so that their lower legs were hanging off of the table in a relaxed position. The patellar tendon was then imaged with a long axis view using ultrasound elastography. ANALYSIS: All data were analyzed using JMP ver16.2 with a repeated measured analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine if differences existed between pad and no pad and between dominant and non- dominant legs. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There was a significant difference between (p=.0423) pad and no pad patellar tendon measurements, but no significant difference when comparing sides combined with pad and no pad, between dominant and non-dominant legs, although a trend for significance did exist, and we suspect that with more subjects analyzed, we will get more significance.

Authors: Logan McMaster, Joshua Sponbeck, Malorie Wilwand, A. Wayne Johnson. Mentors: A Wayne Johnson. Insitution: Brigham Young University. In the dynamic game of professional football, where split-second decisions and explosive movements often determine the outcome, players train all year round for optimal athletic performance. Paramount to this performance are the hamstring muscles including the semimembranosus (SM), semitendinosus (ST), and both the long and short head of the biceps femoris (BFLH and BFSH). They play pivotal roles in sprints, agility, jumping, and overall lower-body strength. Because of the critical nature of the hamstrings during functional activity, this study sought to determine which of these three muscles contributes the most to eccentric hamstring strength. Recognizing the correlation between muscle volume and muscle strength, this study compared maximal eccentric hamstring strength with the proportion of each isolated hamstring muscle's volume relative to the total hamstring muscle group volume. Doing so would identify which specific muscle contributes the most to eccentric hamstring strength. This study incorporated 74 male, collegiate football players representing all positions on the team. Maximal strength was assessed through Nordic hamstring curls and overall muscle volume was quantified using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Our results show no correlation (R^2<0.2) between maximal force output and proportional muscle volume for the ST, and the BFSH. Additionally, the correlations for these muscles were not statistically significant (P>0.05). The SM muscles had a weak negative correlation (R^2= -0.25) with eccentric hamstring strength that was statistically significant (P = 0.03). The BFLH proportional volume was positively weakly correlated (R^2= 0.22) with eccentric hamstring strength. This correlation was statistically non-significant (P = 0.06). This information shows that no hamstring muscle contributes more to eccentric hamstring strength than any other. Knowledge of this can be invaluable for clinicians and researchers to design comprehensive strength training programs that enhance the collective strength of the entire hamstring muscle group, ultimately optimizing the performance of football players.

Authors: Rachel Prince, Joseph Monsen. Mentors: Jason Adams. Insitution: Brigham Young University. Humectants are an important class of compounds that attract and retain water within a cell. These substances are commonly used in skincare products to prevent the outer layers of the skin from drying out. Humectants also serve a similar purpose in tissue preservation and prevention of decomposition of cadaveric specimens. As there have been few comparative studies analyzing the effects of different chemicals on the preservation of cadaveric tissue, we designed an assay consisting of wet-dry analysis to compare the effects of four common humectants (2-phenoxy ethanol, glycerol, propylene glycol, and ethylene glycol) on water retention in various cadaveric tissues. These tissues include human skin, skeletal muscle, brain, liver, cardiac muscle, and lung tissue. In each experiment, the tissue was submerged in the humectant and then weighed before and after being placed in an incubator. From these values, we calculated the percent difference in tissue mass to determine the most effective humectant concentration for retaining moisture in the tissue. We first tested a concentration gradient for each humectant to determine the most effective concentrations for each humectant. Then we performed a second set of experiments to compare the ideal concentrations of the humectants under the same conditions in each tissue. In our preliminary experiments, we found that glycerol is the most effective in retaining moisture in several of these cadaveric tissues. As we finish our experimentation we plan to create a tissue library to provide an evidence-based standard for wetting solutions used in anatomy labs.

Authors: Katelynn Hales, Katya Hulse, Spencer Hawes. Mentors: Bruce Bailey Jr.. Insitution: Brigham Young University. There is relatively little research examining the effect of intermittent fasting on hunger and appetite. The existing literature suggests a complex interaction between hormonal signals, subjective hunger, and actual eating behavior. Development of effective and sustainable protocols rests on understanding these relationships. Dietary protocols that involve continuous energy restriction have been shown to increase appetite. As intermittent energy restriction results from fasting protocols, there is reason to suspect that fasting may similarly impact hunger and eating behavior. However, some research suggests that ketogenic or very low energy diets may decrease hunger, making it unclear what the effects of fasting may be. Levels of ghrelin, the primary hunger hormone, typically increase over the course of a fast, whereas satiety hormones, like leptin, decrease. However, these hormonal changes do not always align with ratings of subjective hunger. There is some evidence that the post-fast meal may play a role in hunger and appetite. Different macronutrients have been shown to impact hormones, hunger, and satiety differently. Our study aims to determine how ending a fast with a high or low carb shake will influence hunger and satiety hormones and subjective hunger.

Authors: Sehi Kim, Naomi Rapier-Sharman, Michael Told. Mentors: Brett Pickett. Insitution: Brigham Young University. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that produces autoantibodies affecting various body regions, including skin, joints, kidneys, brain, aerosol surfaces, blood vessels, etc., resulting in damaging organs and tissue. Patients commonly experience an elevated risk of bleeding or blood clotting, joint stiffness, pain, fatigue, and depression.Our study involved the collection of RNA seq data of B cells of both SLE patients and healthy people from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Subsequently, we employed the Automated Reproducible MOdular Workflow for preprocessing and differential analysis of RNA-seq data (ARMOR) workflow. The differentially expressed genes identified by ARMOR were then analyzed using SPIA (Signaling Pathway Impact Analysis) algorithm to find the pathways associated with lupus. We further utilized the Pathways2Targets algorithm to predict potential lupus treatments based on known protein-drug interactions.In our study on lupus patients, analysis using ARMOR, SPIA, and Pathways2Targets identified 10,000 differentially expressed genes and revealed their modulated pathways, providing insights into molecular cascades in lupus. Furthermore, we identified potential drug targets, finding the way for therapeutic interventions that ultimately led to the discovery of new drug treatments. We anticipate that our findings could be utilized for the benefit of lupus patients, further advancing personalized medicine strategies, holding promise for improving the quality of life for individuals grappling with this complex autoimmune disorder.

Authors: Spencer Jezek, Malorie Wilwand, Joshua Sponbeck, Hunter Jack, Kaden Kennard, A Wayne Johnson. Mentors: A Wayne Johnson. Insitution: Brigham Young University. Hamstring injuries are one of the most common injuries sustained in professional football with 800+ hamstring injuries per year. These hamstring injuries often occur between late swing (eccentric contraction) and early ground contact.PURPOSE: To investigate the correlation of eccentric hamstring strength to muscle volume across positional groups.METHODS:Athletes were divided into three homogeneous groups based on position (big (e.g., linemen), skill (e.g., receivers), combo (e.g., linebackers)). Seventy-three NCAA Division I football players participated (24 big, 37 skill, and 12 combo). Hamstring strength was collected for each leg while performing 3 Nordic curls on a Nordbord device. The peak force of each leg was summed for our data analysis. Collective hamstring volume for each athlete was found through MRI. RESULTS:A Pearson’s product correlation demonstrated an overall moderate correlation (r = 0.52, p < 0.0001) between hamstring muscle volume and strength, with skill players demonstrating a strong correlation (r = 0.66, p < 0.0001), combo players demonstrating a moderate correlation (r = 0.49, p < 0.0001), and big players demonstrating a weak correlation (r = 0.39, p < 0.0001). An ANOVA showed no statistically significant difference of hamstring strength between positional groups (p = 0.1074) relative to hamstring volume (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION:The observed overall moderate correlation between hamstring strength and muscle volume across positional groups indicates that factors outside of muscle volume contribute to muscle strength. Our data also suggests that, regardless of position, hamstring muscle strength was similar when accounting for volume. Muscle volume was the best predictor of strength for the skill group. However, other factors should be considered, such as motor control factors. In the combo and big groups, these additional factors play a larger role.

Authors: Calista Greenwood, Ciera Sanders, Pacen Williams, Kaleb Gardner, Caylor Hafen, Hillary Wadsworth. Mentors: Jordan Yorgason. Insitution: Brigham Young University. Dopamine circuit function in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) is implicated in the reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse including opioids. Opioid receptor desensitization occurs during acute and prolonged exposure to opioids such as morphine, which may have long lasting effects on dopamine circuit function. Fast scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) was performed in mice that have undergone morphine behavioral conditioning. In NAc brain slices, morphine has no apparent direct effects on dopamine release. In contrast, morphine bath application increases VTA dopamine release, which is reversed by naloxone. Interestingly, morphine induced increases in VTA dopamine release were greater in morphine vs saline conditioned mice, supporting a model of circuit sensitization. Surprisingly, blocking voltage gated potassium channels resulted in a switch in morphine effects, where morphine reduced VTA dopamine release. Morphine treated mice had reduced sensitivity to morphine effects on dopamine release in the presence of potassium channel blockers, suggesting that potassium channels are underlying the increases in sensitivity observed in morphine conditioned mice. Experimental protocols were approved by the Brigham Young University Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee according to the National Institutes of Health Guide for the care and use of laboratory animals. Research was funded by Brigham Young University. There are no conflicts of interests to disclose.

Authors: Joseph Holmes. Mentors: Jared Nielsen. Insitution: Brigham Young University. BACKGROUND Anosognosia is characterized by a stroke victim’s inability to acknowledge their acquired physical deficits. Such patients could believe they can operate their limbs normally even when they cannot. Patients will often attribute other reasons to explain their deficit (unwillingness to move, a sprain, arthritis, etc).Previous research has reported damage from various brain areas, including several fronto-temporal-parietal areas, insula, and subcortical regions. Many studies suggest that the deficit is caused from impaired sensory feedback coupled with spared motor intentions, which involves premotor, sensory-motor regions, basal ganglia, temporal-parietal junction, insular cortex, and prefrontal cortex. The objective of this study is to confirm the involvement of these brain areas. It is also to identify other possible networks that could contribute to the development of AHP. METHODSWe performed a literature review for case studies of patients presenting with anosognosia for hemiplegia (n=17). The majority of cases were attributed to ischemic stroke (n=15) while the others resulted from hemorrhagic stroke. Lesion network mapping analysis was performed on the 17 lesions with a large cohort of healthy control resting-state scans (n=1000). RESULTSThe main regions to which the lesions were functionally connected included the right transverse temporal gyrus (n=17) and the anterior left insula (n=17). It is also important to note that the lesion networks were found to be negatively correlated with a few areas in the prefrontal cortex. CONCLUSIONFurther research should be done to investigate the involvement of specific areas of the prefrontal cortex in AHP. Some regions in the prefrontal cortex may be negatively correlated; however, past research suggests a positive correlation of other prefrontal regions. It is important that clinicians understand the lesion networks of AHP, as it will guide them to treat patients more effectively. Interventions such as transcranial brain stimulation could become more beneficial to patients, as clinicians will know specific areas of the brain to stimulate to mitigate symptoms of AHP.

Authors: Spencer Hawes, Katya Hulse, McKay Knowlton, Landon Deru, Bruce Bailey. Mentors: Bruce Bailey. Insitution: Brigham Young University. The aim of this study is to understand how the macronutrient composition of the fast-initiating meal influences glucose regulating hormones in older, sedentary, and abdominally obese adults. Insulin, amylin, and glucagon were measured immediately before and after a 24-hour fast, as well as 48 hours after fast initiation. Understanding these outcomes will inform fasting protocols such as time restricted eating and alternate day fasting, which offer potential long-term health benefits. 16 participants (7 male, 9 female) each completed two 24-hour fasts consuming only water. In random order, one fast began with a high carb shake and the other with a low carb shake of equal calories, volume and fiber density. After each fast, participants lived and ate normally and then returned 24 hours later. Venous blood draws were taken at hours 0, 1, 24, and 48 to monitor levels of insulin, amylin, and glucagon. There was a significant condition by time interaction for insulin (F = 4.08, P < 0.01), amylin (F = 3.34, P = 0.02) and glucagon (F = 7.93, P < 0.01). Insulin (P = 0.02) and amylin (P = 0.01) were higher and glucagon lower (P = 0.05) after consuming the high carbohydrate shake compared to the low carbohydrate shake. There was no difference, however, between conditions for insulin, glucagon or amylin at 0, 24 and 48 hours.

Authors: Alex Jarvis, Brooklyn Flowers, June Oaks, Sadie North. Mentors: Tyson Harmon. Insitution: Brigham Young University. Background: Dual tasks have been found to negatively affect language production for people with and without aphasia (Harmon et al., 2023). For people with aphasia (PWA) specifically, previous research suggests that limited working memory or attentional capacity contributes to their difficulty with language tasks (Harmon et al., 2019; Pompon et al., 2015; King & Karen 1996; Obermeyer et al., 2020). One common situation in which communication occurs within a dual task environment is talking while driving. Investigating how talking while driving impacts spoken language could help us better understand how to facilitate both safer driving behaviors and improved communication among friends and family while driving. Longer-term, this understanding can springboard further research addressing assessment and intervention practices in aphasia, which better reflect communication in daily life. Original findings related to speech acoustics revealed that talking while driving led to increased speech intensity and decreased speech time ratios (Glenn, 2017; Simmons, 2016). The potential impact of these driving tasks on spoken language, however, has not been investigated. For the present study, we will conduct a secondary analysis of language samples produced across the aforementioned conditions to understand how they impact spoken language production. Method: Data for the present study was collected for a larger project with initial aims of investigating the impact of driving on speech acoustics (e.g., frequency, intensity). This project also investigated bidirectional interference between speech acoustics and driving as well as the effects of different conversational modalities (e.g., talking on the phone, in person, or through Bluetooth). Forty healthy adults who reported no speech, language, or hearing impairment participated in the study. Participants completed seven tasks, which were presented in a random order: driving without speaking, speaking on a hand-held cell phone, speaking on a hands-free phone, talking to a person next to them speaking on a hand-held cell phone while driving, speaking on a hands-free phone while driving, and talking to a person next to them while driving. Within each of these conditions, participants discussed a topic they selected from a list while completing these tasks. To analyze spoken language, we will first transcribe samples orthographically. These transcriptions will then be coded for lexical-phonological, morphosyntactic, and macro-linguistic errors. Parametric statistical analysis will be used to compare across different age groups. Anticipated Results: We hypothesize that participants will demonstrate increased errors in conditions that involve talking while driving (i.e., dual task conditions) than in conditions that involve talking alone (i.e., single task conditions). Previous research suggests dual-tasking has a negative effect on language including lexical and phonological errors even in non-aphasic participants (Harmon et al., 2023). In this study, we would expect more lexical-phonological (e.g., fillers, revisions, repetitions) and macro-linguistic (e.g., aposiopesis) errors during dual task conditions. For future studies involving PWA’s, we would expect more impaired language in dual-task activities than those without aphasia.

Authors: Amanda Carlson. Mentors: Bradford Berges. Insitution: Brigham Young University. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) causes AIDS and is one of the most studied viruses in history. HIV is a retrovirus that has two copies of a single stranded RNA genome. While there is in-depth understanding of the virus and its pathogenesis, no completely effective treatment or vaccine exists. One potential target for therapeutic treatment of HIV is Viral Protein R (Vpr). Vpr is a multi-functional accessory protein encoded by the HIV genome. While HIV is a quickly mutating virus, the vpr gene remains relatively conserved. Mutations in this protein dramatically impact the rate of AIDS progression compared to the wild type (WT) version of Vpr. The Vpr polymorphism R77Q is associated with the Long Term Non Progressor (LTNP) phenotype. Regular AIDS onset is 5-7 years for WT virus and 10 or more years for R77Q. These differences in AIDS progression have been observed in vivo by following people with HIV over time. We have successfully shown that R77Q activates G2 cell cycle arrest more efficiently than WT followed by apoptosis, a death mechanism with less inflammation compared to necrosis. While the molecular mechanism of Vpr-induced apoptosis is known, it is not yet determined why point mutations in Vpr are changing levels of apoptosis. With further experimentation, we have shown that R77Q has decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to WT virus, which may explain why it is associated with the LTNP phenotype. The functions of Vpr come from binding and modifying cellular proteins and enzymes. The focus of our research is to determine what molecular interactions change between Vpr mutants to better understand the shifts in apoptotic levels. Vpr can be found intracellularly in the nucleus, cytoplasm, and mitochondria and extracellularly in secreted proteins and within virions. We will determine Vpr concentration in these various locations for both WT Vpr and the R77Q mutant, starting by measuring extracellular Vpr. To quantify virion-associated Vpr, we have designed a research plan. We will use WT-Vpr plasmids tagged by GFP to create GFP-tagged plasmids with either WT, R77Q or null mutations using site-directed mutagenesis. We will use Sanger sequencing for confirmation of the proper Vpr mutations tagged by GFP. We will then digest the plasmid DNA, leaving only the Vpr-GFP component and use PCR to amplify the sequences. We will transfect null virus plasmid (NL4-3) and Vpr-GFP plasmids into HEK cells to package the null virus and Vpr-GFP plasmids together to create active HIV particles. Using these virus particles, we will infect Hut-78 cells for a short time to allow the virion to enter the cells. We will then measure GFP fluorescence via flow cytometry, allowing us to quantify virion Vpr. This will be run alongside a mock infection as a control. We hypothesize that differences in virion Vpr concentrations exist among Vpr mutants. Through these experiments, we aim to discover more about the role Vpr plays in cell death by apoptosis and contribute to the existing literature exploring the importance of Vpr in HIV-1.

Authors: Maddy Howard, Brooke Dension, Shanna Groesbeck. Mentors: Sandy Wilson. Insitution: Utah Valley University. AbstractThere are many systemic diseases that are linked to oral health. This literature review specifically examines different studies and academic journals that have studied the relationship between oral health, obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Obesity is linked to the patient's oral health in many ways. When patients are consuming large quantities of food more often than normal, this results in a more acidic environment along with energy for bacteria to grow. One study found a correlation between obesity and risk factors such as “frequency of brushing teeth, smoking, tooth loss, gingivitis, and dental caries (Yilmax & Somay, 2021). This article discusses the strong correlation between oral health and heart disease. Several studies emphasize the importance of dental hygienists educating their patients about the link between their oral and cardiovascular health. The articles conclude that treating periodontal disease more effectively and aggressively could lead to a marked reduction in coronary heart disease rates and vice versa.Diabetes and periodontal disease is also examined at length in this literature review. Diabetes and periodontitis is described as a ‘two-way relationship’. Evidence shows that individuals with diabetes, type 1 or type 2, are 34% more likely to develop periodontal disease. On the other hand, individuals experiencing periodontal disease are 53% more likely to develop diabetes (Wu, et al., 2020). This literature review will explore the importance of oral health in keeping your entire body healthy.ReferencesArora, A., Rana, K., Manohar, N., Li, L., Bhole, S., & Chimoriya, R. (2022). Perceptions and practices of oral health care professionals in preventing and managing childhood obesity. Nutrients, 14(9), 1809. 10.3390/nu14091809.Batty, G. D., Jung, K. J., Mok, Y., Lee, S. J., Back, J. H., Lee, S., & Jee, S. H. (2018). Oral health and later coronary heart disease: Cohort study of one million people. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, 25(6), 598-605. 10.1177/2047487318759112Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Defining adult overweight & obesity. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Deraz, O., Rangé, H., Boutouyrie, P., Chatzopoulou, E., Asselin, A., Guibout, C., Van Sloten, T., Bougouin, W., Andrieu, M., Vedie, B., Thomas, F., Danchin, N., Jouven, X., Bouchard, P., & Empana, J. P. (2022). Oral condition and incident coronary heart disease: A clustering analysis. Journal of Dental Research, 101(5), 526-533. 10.1177/00220345211052507Sanchez, P., Everett, B., Salamonson, Y., Ajwani, S., Bhole, S., Bishop, J., Lintern, K., Nolan, S., Rajaratnam, R., Redfern, J., Sheehan, M., Skarligos, F., Spencer, L., Srinivas, R., & George, A. (2017). Perceptions of cardiac care providers towards oral health promotion in Australia. Collegian, 25(5), 471-478. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colegn.2017.11.006Preshaw, P. M., Alba, A. L., Herrera, D., Jepsen, S., Konstantinidis, A., Makrilakis, K., & Taylor, R. (2012). Periodontitis and diabetes: A two-way relationship. Diabetologia, 55(1), 21-31. 10.1007/s00125-011-2342-yWu, C.-Z., Yuan, Y.-H., Liu, H.-H., Li, S.-S., Zhang, B.-W., Chen, W., An, Z.-J., Chen, S.-Y., Wu, Y.-Z., Han, B., Li, C.-J., & Li, L.-J. (2020). Epidemiologic relationship between periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus. BMC oral health, 20, 204. 10.1186/s12903-020-01180-wYilmax, Busra. & Somay, Efsun. (2021). Is obesity a problem that threatens oral health in adults? Cukurova Medical Journal, 46(3), 1215-1221. DOI: 10.17826/cumj.950243

Authors: Barry Gyman. Mentors: Cody Reeves. Insitution: Brigham Young University. The purpose of this paper is to qualify and analyze the leading driving forces in determining the success of healthcare innovations in a variety of subspaces in the healthcare industry. Health is one of the largest markets in America and is almost universally relied upon. As the systems and technologies of healthcare are innovated and improved upon, the quality and efficiency of this care stands to increase, potentially benefiting both those who provide care, those who receive care, or both. The healthcare industry offers a plethora of niches needing innovating and the potential of high economic return for the producers, and yet only a small portion of innovations are adopted and successfully integrated with some areas having a failure rate approaching or exceeding 90% (Sun et al., 2022)(Jacobs et. al, 2015). What propels these few successful innovations towards adoption that so many other innovations fail to achieve? Through the analysis of dozens of papers researching success robustness in various healthcare fields, such as pharmacology and technological innovation, we will summarize the data in search of shared commonalities among successful innovations. Sun, D., Gao, W., Hu, H., & Zhou, S. (2022). Why 90% of clinical drug development fails and how to improve it?. Acta pharmaceutica Sinica. B, 12(7), 3049–3062. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apsb.2022.02.002Jacobs, S.R., Weiner, B.J., Reeve, B.B. et al. Determining the predictors of innovation implementation in healthcare: a quantitative analysis of implementation effectiveness. BMC Health Serv Res 15, 6 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-014-0657-3

Authors: Marie Gibb. Mentors: Francine Jensen. Insitution: Utah Valley University. Maternal mortality, also known as maternal death, is defined as the death of a woman during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum. (MacDorman et al., 2021; Spelke & Werner, 2018). The United States is the only developed nation where the rates of maternal mortality are rising, and they have been rising for twenty years (Simpson, 2019; Spelke & Werner, 2018). This incidence represents a maternal health crisis in the United States. On average, 700 women in the United States die each year from pregnancy-related complications. This equates to 17.2 maternal deaths for every 100,000 live births (Simpson, 2019). Currently, the maternal mortality rate for Utah is higher than the national average at 21.5 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births (Utah Department of Health and Human Services, 2023). According to More than 60% of these deaths are preventable (MacDorman et al., 2021; Simpson, 2019).The leading causes of maternal death in the United States are hemorrhage, preeclampsia, eclampsia, hypertension, embolisms, and cardiomyopathy, which often lead to cardiovascular disorders (MacDorman et al., 2021; Simpson, 2019). The Utah Health and Human Services (2023) reported that increases in heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, mental health disorders, and other chronic conditions complicate pregnancies and are contributing to maternal mortality in Utah. The American Heart Association has cautioned that pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm delivery are linked to maternal heart disease later in life (Parikh et al., 2021). Research suggests that each episode has a cumulative effect (Marill, 2021), meaning, the more pregnancies women have, and the more complications women have during pregnancy, the more elevated their risks are in general for cardiovascular disorders as they age. A qualitative survey was sent out using snowball sampling to women over the age of 18 in Utah asking about their understanding of cardiovascular risk factors and current health conditions. Findings showed that women were unaware of their potential cardiovascular risks associated with pregnancy. Raising awareness regarding these cardiovascular risks may be the number one preventative strategy, as women are the ones who bear the personal and physical risks. If pregnant women are aware of their cardiovascular risk factors, they can be empowered to raise concerns when necessary. Future interventions may include educating all women of childbearing years about cardiovascular risks prior to pregnancy, as well as more frequent screening of women during and after delivery (Marill, 2021). ReferencesMacDorman, M. F., Thoma, M., Declcerq, E., & Howell, E. A. (2021). Racial and ethnic disparities in maternal mortality in the United States using enhanced vital records, 2016‒2017. American Journal of Public Health, 111(9), 1673–1681. https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.2021.306375Marill, M. C. (2021). Getting to the heart of America's maternal mortality crisis. Health Affairs, 40(12), 1824-1829. https://doi.org/10.1377/hlthaff.2021.01702Parikh, N. I., Gonzalez, J. M., Anderson, C. A. M., Judd, S. E., Rexrode, K. M., Hlatky, M. A., Gunderson, E. P., Stuart, J. J., & Vaidya, D. (2021, May 4). Adverse pregnancy outcomes and cardiovascular disease risk: Unique opportunities for cardiovascular disease prevention in women: A scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation, 143(18), e902-e916. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000961Simpson, K. (2019). Maternal mortality in the United States. MCN, The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing, 44 (5), 249-249. doi: 10.1097/NMC.0000000000000560.Spelke, B., & Werner, E. (2018). The fourth trimester of pregnancy: Committing to maternal health and well-being postpartum. Rhode Island Medical Journal (2013), 101(8), 30–33.Utah Department of Health and Human Services. (2023, March 16). Complete health indicator report of maternal mortality. Retrieved Sat, 09 September 2023 from the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, Indicator-Based Information System for Public Health website: http://ibis.health.utah.gov. https://ibis.health.utah.gov/ibisph-view/indicator/complete_profile/MatMort.html