SURE 2025

Advancing Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment: Integrating Image Analysis and AI Algorithms for Enhanced Clinical Practice

Hussain Al-Sayed

The diagnosis and treatment of cancer have witnessed tremendous improvements through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and complex algorithms for the analysis of images. The current research focused on the ways AI algorithms, especially deep learning models, improve the sensitivity for the detection of cancerous tumors and enable early diagnosis. These studies highlighted the need for use of personalized treatment guidelines and precision medicine to deliver patient-specific care. However, the use of personalized treatment guidelines and precision medicine to deliver patient-specific care, the use of AI in the clinical environment faces challenges such as data quality, the interpretability of the models, regulatory issues, and ethics issues. This research will review the importance of contribution to the further evolution of AI-assisted cancer diagnosis to enable future research and innovation within the medical imaging arena.

Bioremediation of Plastic Pollution

Allison Cherwien

Global plastic production, exceeding 380 million tons annually, is projected to triple by 2060, posing a severe environmental crisis. With only 21% of plastic waste recycled or incinerated, the majority contaminates natural resources, impacting nearly 700 endangered species. Human health is also at risk, as microplastics are linked to cardiovascular diseases, cancers, neurological issues, and reproductive harm, primarily through induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. The inefficiency of current waste management, with only 9% recycled and 12% incinerated (releasing significant CO2), leaves 79% accumulating in landfills and oceans. Recognizing that recycling alone is insufficient, biologists are exploring bioremediation, utilizing microorganisms to degrade plastics. Bioremediation is using microorganisms to help decrease pollutants from the environment. Microorganisms are microscopic organisms that are found virtually everywhere on Earth, including in water, soil, air, and inside other living organisms. In 2014, researchers found microbial species, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, in landfills naturally degrading plastics. Microorganisms break down plastic by sticking to the polymers surface of plastics and using the carbon polymer as an energy source. However, these microbes do not currently digest plastic at an effective rate to make a large impact on the worldwide issue of plastic pollution. Therefore, biologists are working to genetically engineer microbes to digest plastic as a substrate more effectively and to identify additional microbial species capable of eating plastic.

Maternal & Environmental Influences on Infant Development

Khurshid Amirshahi

Maternal & Environmental Influences on Infant Development Khurshid Amirshahi March 2025 Maternal and environmental factors significantly impact infant development, both physically and cognitively, during the critical prenatal period when the fetus's organs and nervous system are rapidly forming. Exposure to adverse conditions can lead to long-term health issues and developmental challenges in the child. These factors are important because they shape early development, including brain development and immune function, as well as long-term well-being, both psychological and physical. Maternal factors such as nutrition, stress, mental health, exposure to toxins, and prenatal care play a crucial role. For instance, prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and maternal nutritional supplements impact cognitive and motor development in 6-month-old infants. Maternal cortisol levels during pregnancy and prenatal stress influence newborn health outcomes, while maternal depression symptoms affect toddler neurocognitive and affective development. Environmental factors, including prenatal and early-life air pollution exposure, have negative effects on motor skills, language, and social adaptation behaviors. Exposure to heavy metals also increases the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Maternal and environmental factors shape early development, health, and long-term well-being, as well as promote healthier pregnancies, improve birth outcomes, and prevent health issues.

Deepen vs. Broaden: Reimagining How the Arts Industry Can Engage with Audiences

Madeleine Baum

In the United States, audience participation and engagement in the performing arts has steadily declined since the turn of the 21st Century. The global pandemic further hindered arts organizations, as traditional audience development methods have decreasing efficacy in a digital and globalized world. It is imperative that the industry act quickly to regain engagement and return to its origins of community service and expression. Using a thematic analysis, this presentation critically examines one strategy for arts organizations to increase audience participation by examining academic journal articles, international scholarly analyses, and historical textbooks. The presenter argues that organizations must center their community’s needs instead of appealing to the broadest possible audience by employing public decision making. Public decision making has been successful at all organizational levels and utilizes many methods, such as advisory councils, town-hall or open board meetings, audience and community surveys, and creative placemaking. While critics worry about retaining artistic standards if decisions are influenced by public opinion, organizations which have employed this strategy have boasted increased participation and deepened artistic integrity. If centering the audience is to be successful, this presentation concludes that arts organizations must focus on deepening their engagement efforts with their immediate geographic communities, rather than aiming to broaden their reach to the state, regional, or national level. Keywords: accessibility, theater marketing, audience engagement, community service, public decision making, creative placemaking.

Should Shared Leadership Be the Gold Standard for American Regional Theatre? An Examination of the Advantages and Disadvantages of Theatre’s Trendiest Leadership Model

Megan Behm

In the wake of the #MeToo and Black Lives Matter movements, many theatres were forced to reckon with and acknowledge how the hierarchical systems of their companies protected and enabled abusive behavior. Shared leadership—a leadership model in which two or three artistic leaders share ultimate decision-making power—was held up by theatre activists as a potential solution to a range of institutional problems. Many theatres used the COVID pandemic as an opportunity to “press pause” and experiment with new leadership structures. This literature review research sought to evaluate and understand if shifting to a shared leadership model is an effective method for mitigating these institutional problems and abuses of power, and whether shared leadership should become a new “best practice.” This literature review research consisted of articles about leadership crises at various regional theatres; theatres trying shared leadership models including the Wilma Theatre, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and Steppenwolf Theatre; analyses of power-sharing in other industries; and academic research into performing arts leadership. This literature made it clear that the existing leadership models in the American regional theatre are dysfunctional, but that swapping out leadership at the top of an organization without making other structural changes to support this change can be disastrous. Ultimately, this review proposed that shared leadership could potentially lead to a more equitable, inclusive model of theatre-making, but that other structural changes and steps need to be made first to support a shared leadership model.

Justice or Cruelty: Juvenile Life Without Parole

Alexis Benton

The Research documented for this presentation is on juvenile life without parole and the ethical issues that revolve around it. Just Mercy, a book written by Bryan Stevenson, explains how the only country in the world that condemns juveniles to life imprisonment without parole is the United States. Through a comprehensive review of the literature, this presentation involves the cross-examination of juvenile life without parole (JLWOP) in both the United States and Canada. While JLWOP is strictly prohibited in Canada, they have a form of juvenile punishment that will be looked at in this presentation. The research will also go over three main factors, including but not limited to. The racial disparities between white and black youth. The impact life without parole has on a juvenile's life. Lastly, the cost of incarceration and the differences between countries. Keywords: Life without parole, Juvenile, JLWOP, United States, Canada

The Effects of Endomycorrhizal Fungi on Cosmos Bipinnatus Health

Juliana Bish, Olivia Shores

Endomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) is a type of fungi that forms a relationship with approximately 85% of plant life. This relationship is mutually beneficial: it facilitates the transportation of water and nutrients to the host plant’s roots from the soil in exchange for carbohydrates produced by the plant. However, there seems to be variation in the strength or importance of this relationship to the host plant’s overall health. This study investigates how EMF inoculation affects the overall health of the host plant Cosmos bipinnatus. We hypothesized that EMF inoculation would significantly influence C. bipinnatus germination rate (duration of sprout phase), growth (above and below-ground biomass), potential reproductive output (number of flowers), and carbon tissue storage (ash weight inorganic material). In a common greenhouse experimental design, C. bipinnatus was planted in pots (n= number of seeds in each pot) and divided into two treatments, 1) EMF inoculated (n = number of pots inoculated) and 2) non-inoculated (n = number of pots not inoculated). Measurements taken throughout the growing process include time to germinate, number of plants grown per pot, plant height, biomass, and flower size and abundance. After flowering, the plants will be harvested to determine the extent of EMF nodules in the roots and the overall nutrient contents of the plants. The results of the treatments will be compared using analysis of variance among measured variables to determine if EMF inoculation has a significant effect on the growth and health of C. bipinnatus. This study aims to clarify the role of EMF in enhancing plant productivity and health.

How the COVID-19 Pandemic and Black Lives Matter Movement Impacted the Theater Industry Four Years Later

Emily Bovan

Research Topic: For my CONR 602 research project, I wrote about the changing theater culture of acceptable working conditions for actors in show business and the impacts COVID-19 and the BLM movement had on the performing arts industry. Now as we are two years further removed from this period, I plan to add to the research with a view on how the industry’s comeback has been, post-pandemic. Findings: My findings have shown that the main lasting impacts on the theater industry are related to finances. Theater organizations have not completely bounced back to the audience sizes they had in pre-COVID times and trends show that giving from foundations and individuals is decreasing. The theaters that survived the lockdown, are now struggling more than ever to get back to their previous budgets, which with inflation, likely won’t improve. This alters my original findings which mostly focused on the working culture of theater professionals. While many of the working protections have remained, the industry has new risks with uncertainty in funding. Thesis Statement: Changing behaviors from audience members and arts funders have made the theater industry more volatile than ever before; causing theater performers to demand better working conditions in show business. The new working culture that stems from these changes will make the show business industry more sustainable and safer for future generations of performers. Literature: The literature I would like to add includes a research publication from Americans for the Arts which shows nationwide data regarding the arts community’s comeback from the pandemic, an interview from the Wallace Foundation with the Executive Director of Theatre Communications Group, and an article from All Arts covering numerous arts organizations and how they are recovering from the pandemic four years later. Conclusions: After reviewing the sources, I would like to add, I have found that lower attendance levels and a decreasing trend in federal and individual giving have continued to make the theater industry less stable than in pre-pandemic years. This makes a positive working environment and culture more important than ever to workers in the industry to ensure protections are in place.

Impact of Nature-Based Play on the Development of Childhood Skills

Uneque Chesser

This study aimed to determine if attending nature-based playgroup sessions would improve a child’s knowledge of self-regulation skills, social emotional skills, independence and awareness of nature, according to parental caregiver perception. This study is still ongoing and the results have yet to be finalized. It is expected that respective caregivers will report perceived changes in child participants following participation in the nature-based playgroup sessions. Using a pre-test and post-test design, surveys were given to 10 participants who were caregivers of 10 children that participated in 5 nature-based playgroup sessions over 1 week. Child participants were between the ages of 5 and 12 years old. Facilitators implemented structured activities that focused on educating the children about emotional regulation strategies, environmentalism or earth-friendly actions, and social emotional skills. Children were also provided with opportunities to initiate their own learning experiences through nature-based play interactions with peers. Potential benefits of this study include growth in a child’s awareness of earth-friendly actions and natural artifacts, which may encourage progression in environmental learning as the child continues to develop and seek opportunities. This may benefit the development of the individual child, as well as the environmentalism movement for sustainability and advocacy for the planet as a whole. Other potential benefits include the practical knowledge gained regarding the importance of emotional regulation, which can impact individual behavior, independence, relationships with others, and the use of self-regulation strategies.

The Bard and The Bible (Othello's Version)

Sarah Christy

This essay examines Shakespeare’s tragic play Othello and how Biblical allusions from both the Old and New Testaments deepen the play’s central themes of envy, betrayal, and the fall of man. By analyzing characters such as Othello, Desdemona, and Iago, the essay explores how Shakespeare's allusions show the development of key characters and highlight their tragic arcs. The essay also examines the temptation motif, drawing parallels to the story of Adam and Eve along with Cain and Abel in Genesis, and Judas’s betrayal of Jesus in Matthew. Shakespeare also alludes to the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, representing the forces of destruction that eventually lead to Othello’s tragic downfall. Through these Biblical references, Shakespeare enhances Othello’s exploration of human flaws and the devastating effects of envy and betrayal, offering a powerful commentary on the vulnerability of the human spirit.

Crafting with Confidence

Amanda Clowdis, Colleen Chudy, Jessie Williams, Jenna Carroll

Historically, arts and crafts have shown positive therapeutic outcomes, however, there is a need for further research on its influence on confidence and motivation in the pediatric population. This quasi-experimental study aimed to understand the impact of arts and crafts on confidence and motivation in children aged 6-13. Two measurement tools were utilized to assess research outcomes including the Children's Motivation Scale (CMS) to assess motivation and Child Occupational Self Assessment (COSA) to assess self-esteem. No significant differences in the participants' confidence and motivation were found after running a paired samples t-test. However, the researchers found there to be positive results of the arts and crafts intervention after conducting a qualitative interview with participants' caregivers. Researchers found that crafts allowed the participants to have creativity and ownership of their work by allowing them to choose when it came to order and design. This created a sense of autonomy and independence which allowed participants to feel more confident. In addition to findings on motivation and confidence, researchers also found that the group setting allowed for social participation as well as the opportunity to learn new skills and ideas from their peers. While this was a group study, it utilized an inclusive design that was easily adaptable across different diagnoses that participants had. These findings are applicable to the field of Occupational Therapy (OT) as it shows how craft-based interventions can be utilized to promote increased confidence, motivation, and social participation while also working on fine motor skills and executive functioning.

TikTok Dances and Viewer Reactions

Katelynn Clukey

TikTok is one of the leading social media sites standing alongside Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. In 2024, there are estimated to be over 1.582 billion TikTok users worldwide (Dunn, 2025). In this experiment, I examined how an individual’s mood is affected by watching TikTok dance videos. 220 participants were randomly assigned to watch one of four different videos. Two of the videos featured a singular dancer; two showed a pair of dancers. For each grouping of dancers, one video was performed with a neutral or “blank” expression and in the other condition the dancer(s) had happy facial expressions. Each TikTok featured the same choreography and clothing. Participants completed the TIPI (to measure Big 5 personality traits) prior to viewing videos, and the PANAS (to measure positive and negative affect) before and after viewing videos. After cleaning the dataset and performing a mixed factorial ANOVA, data showed that only time (not expression or number of dancers) had a main effect on mood. During the time it took participants to view the video, both their positive and negative emotions decreased. Of the Big 5 personality traits, openness was the only one correlated with changes in mood. Specifically, people who were more open decreased less in their negative affect after watching the video. Future studies would benefit from utilizing a younger age range of 16 to 25 (matching TikTok’s primary audience) and changing the gender and/or racial identity of the dance models, as well as altering the type of music.

Perceived Compared to Statistically Known: What Are the Top Concerns in Lord Fairfax District Counties, and What Can Be Done About It?

Lauren Cruz, Allie Clarkson, Taylor Reynolds

The Community Health Needs Assessment (CHA) is an initiative to understand the perceived concerns within the Lord Fairfax Health District (LFHD) with surveys and focus groups. From the data collected, the perceived needs will be compared to statistical data from secondary sources to identify priority health status and accessibility needs. The LFHD, a sector of the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), plans to develop strategies for the Community Health Improvement Plan. This group aims to use the CHA to investigate the top health concerns in the counties surveyed. What are the perceived and statistical concerns of the individual counties in the LFHD? The CHA, based on the Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships (MAPP) framework, focuses on health equity and identifying community health factors. The community status assessment gathers quantitative data on demographics and health behaviors, while partner assessments highlight community concerns through surveys and interviews. These assessments shape the community’s health narrative for ongoing improvement. Once the data is received, the approach of this group will be to let the data lead our investigation. Using SPSS, frequencies of the top concerns for each county will be observed and compared to secondary statistical sources. The results of our findings and associated implications will be crafted into a report and provided to the LFHD. The CHA’s purpose is to gain knowledge that will formulate strategies to promote community health. Accordingly, our group’s final report will include research-based recommendations to improve the health status of all in the LFHD community.

No S.H.A.M.E. in This Game (Sexual Health and Abuse Mitigation with Evidence)

Lauren Cruz, Isabella Luis, Taylor Reynolds

In the United States, there is a devastating presence of adolescent sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates, intimate partner violence, and unplanned pregnancy. Without a uniform-federal, comprehensive sexual education (CSE) curriculum in public schools, students are often left in a twilight zone of miseducation and neglect towards their knowledge of their bodies and autonomy. The goal of this proposed intervention is to empower students with confidence toward their sexual well-being to make safe and healthy decisions. This program will focus on high schoolers’ intention to perform healthy sexual behavior based on the Theory of Planned Behavior. The constructs of this theory- attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control- will be used to meet teenage students' wants and needs in their sexual health. We intend to design a program for adolescents centered around evidence-based, healthy sexual behavior materials. James Wood High School, a rural public high school located in Winchester, Virginia, will be the focus of this initiative. The program will be a blend of online modules and in-person classes. Over a series of multiple sessions, students will be engaged in CSE regarding contraceptive use, interpersonal communication, and pregnancy prevention. The objective of our programs’ curriculum is to inspire adolescents and promote healthy communication between their interpersonal relationships and self-efficacy toward their own sexual well-being. The accomplishments of this program would exhibit a decrease in the prevalence of STIs and the rate of adolescent pregnancies.

ARTabletopDefense: Exploring the Potential of the Meta Quest 3

Tyler Dossat, Ann Fink

ARTableTopDefense is an augmented reality (AR) tower defense style game made to take advantage of the capabilities the Meta Quest 3 provides. Using the Meta SDK, we are able to blend the real and virtual world allowing for a unique game experience. Meta’s newest headset has several built in features allowing the headset to track the player's hands, the room, and occlude virtual objects. In the application, you will fight 10 waves of enemies trying to destroy your tower. You can use the gold in your bank to build and place towers to defend your base. The game ends when you have either successfully fended off the enemies making for your tower or your tower has been destroyed. It is up to you how you will place your towers to make the best defense possible to win the day.

The Effects of Live Performance Streaming on Audience Building

Alyssa Downing

As technology advances, culture shifts, and digital consumption increases, arts organizations face growing challenges in maintaining live performance attendance, a trend worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many theaters, ballets, and symphonies have adapted by live streaming performances through their websites or subscription services. This research examines how live streaming performances impacts arts consumption and audience building, as well as the benefits and challenges it presents. The literature review draws from academic journals, industry articles, and case studies. Findings suggest live streaming is now a main entertainment source for households and provides accessibility benefits for families, people with disabilities, and those unable to attend in person. Surveys identified household size as the most significant factor in determining live versus online attendance, likely due to the challenges of childcare. Research also highlights inequalities in art consumption, such as limited accessible seating for individuals with visual or hearing impairments or those needing wheelchair access. Further studies indicate the more cultural content people consume online, the more likely they are to attend in-person events, demonstrating a complementary effect between live streaming and live attendance. Despite these benefits, there are challenges to live streaming performances such as copyright issues and royalty payments for union affiliated musicians. The research concludes that arts organizations should embrace digital streaming as a tool to reach broader, more diverse audiences. By leveraging digital media and adapting to evolving cultural consumption trends, these organizations can foster sustainable, loyal audience members in the current digital age.

Disability Education and Student Perception

Jennie Dunnavant, Madison Biggs, Jennie Dunnavant, Rachel Taylor, Yvette Tebo

A randomized control trial was conducted to determine the effect of a disability identity education program on health professional students’ perceived confidence and knowledge in treating individuals with disabilities. Participants were recruited from health professions programs at universities across the East Coast of the U.S., including occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), and nursing. Fourteen students were enrolled and randomly assigned to either a control or intervention group. The intervention consisted of four educational modules on disability and disability identity. A pre-test and post-test design was used to detect a change in perceived knowledge and confidence for both participant groups. Three research questions were analyzed using a Wilcoxon paired sample t-test and a correlation analysis. The results showed that the intervention group reported greater confidence in their ability to work with individuals with disabilities. There was also a strong correlation between perceived knowledge and perceived confidence, indicating that with more knowledge, confidence also increases. These results reflect the importance of adding disability education to healthcare curricula and the need for future healthcare practitioners to seek opportunities to learn about disability identity. Disability education could prompt further exploration of the individual experience of disability within the context of culture, language, and interactions with the healthcare system. Future research is needed to explore a more diverse population of health professions students and identify effective education methods for this population.

W.A.V.E.S.

Jacob Eisenhart, Luke Yager, Ethan Swope

Teaching about climate change can be challenging. Climate change is often not taught or is a difficult subject to cover in standard U.S. curriculum. Many people don't see climate change as something that is necessary to worry about and it is not something that affects most people. Over the course of a person's life, they are not likely to witness major changes in the environment. There is even a majority of the population that does not believe climate change is real. To address this challenge, this work introduces WAVES (water and atmospheric variability simulation), a virtual reality experience designed to be used as a supplementary learning tool at Shenandoah University and other higher education institutions. WAVES is designed to be educational while also leaving an impact on the viewers perception and preconceived notions about climate change. This platform allows the user to visit two locations: Miami Beach, Florida and the Island of Kiribati. The user will be able to view these locations in the modern day, a little in the past, and far into the future. Over time, the locations will gradually flood according to worst case scenario prediction models. There will be a large focus on the visuals as the locations will flood, the environment will deteriorate, and sea life will start to take over the land.

American Sign Language Learning for Youth and Adults with Gamified Virtual Reality

Ann Fink, Tyler Dossat

American Sign Language (ASL) is a visual-gestural language that has been used within the Deaf and hard of hearing community since the early 1800s. This project utilizes the hand tracking and gesture recognition capabilities of virtual reality headsets in a gamified application to teach parents of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children a set of various ASL signs, as well as the kids themselves, to learn and practice different signs. The gamified application is set in a futuristic cyber world where the user is able to battle their way through two levels of robots using the different hand signs that they learn, helping to cement the signs that they learn throughout the game in a fun and exciting way. The data collected from the application will be collected from a user study conducted at an ASL center.

Ghosts of the Argonne: Implementing Multi-User Interactivity To Explore Social Presence in a Historical Virtual Reality Simulation

Ann Fink, Tyler Dossat, Ryan Casey

Ghosts of the Argonne is a multiuser interactive virtual recreation of the French 75 artillery gun used in the first world war. The experience seeks to immerse the users in the environment of the Meuse-Argonne offensive on September 26, 1918 in order to have a close up understanding of this pivotal WW1 battle. In our 2024-2025 expansion of this project we are developing systems to support the exploration of multi-user interactivity, social presence, and the men of Harry Truman's battery D. The project has expanded to include networked interactivity, elevation and deflection functionality, fuse setter interactions, full caisson integration, and visual representations of several simultaneous human users. This has allowed us to deliver an authentic historical experience for the users that presents history in an engaging new medium. The new iteration of this project allows us to address how individuals were working together during this historic battle. The utilization of modern user experiences in a virtual headset versus actual historic functionality poses unique challenges and opportunities for collaboration. Join us on our journey to recreate the Meuse-Argonne historic offensive of 1918 as if you were in the battle yourself.

Multi Modal Pain Management in Postoperative Cardiac Surgery Patients

Kristen Fisher

Introduction Opioids are the standard of care to control pain after cardiac surgery, but these medications have adverse effects that may impede recovery. The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Cardiac Society designed an initiative to address pain management and improve recovery for patients undergoing surgery. ERAS recommends multi modal pain management after surgery to minimize opioid use and shorten recovery time. The objective of this study is to determine if multimodal (MM) pain management improves postoperative pain control compared to patients receiving opioid only (OO) management. We hypothesize that patients receiving MM pain management will have lower postoperative pain scores and less opioid use. Methods A retrospective cohort study using the electronic health record for chart review. Patients will be included if they underwent coronary artery bypass graft and/or valve surgery at Winchester Medical Center between 10/1/22-12/31/24. Patients will be excluded if they were taking scheduled opioids or gabapentin before admission, < 18 years of age, pregnant, have a substance use disorder history, or have contraindications to any of the analgesics. Patients will be placed into one of two study groups: patients receiving primary OO management or MM pain management. MM pain management is defined as having at least 2 non-opioid pain medications in addition to standard care with opioids. The primary endpoint is to compare mean pain score in the first 48 hours after surgery between the two groups. This endpoint will be evaluated using a student’s t test. Results and Conclusion: In progress

Negative Effects of Solitary Confinement

Taylor French

Over the years solitary confinement has been being used more and more. However, most people do not know the negative repercussions that solitary confinement has on inmates' mental health. A review of the literature on solitary confinement shows that there are many negative effects that solitary confinement has on mental health such as developing mental health disorders, hallucinations, and even loss of awareness or confusion. These types of disorders or symptoms occur because of the lack of human contact that inmates experience when they are put in solitary confinement. According to one study, excessive deprivation of liberty, defined as near complete confinement to the cell results in deep emotional disturbances (Haney, 2003). Solitary confinement needs to be abolished because it does more harm than good to an inmate and there is no reason to subject someone to those types of conditions when it could result in such adverse outcomes. [Haney, C. (2003). Mental health issues in long-term solitary and “Supermax” confinement. Crime & Delinquency, 49(1), 124–156. https://doi.org/10.1177/0011128702239239]

The Impact of a Health Literacy Program on Holistic Health of Esport Athletes

Sophia Gillam

Esports are described as organized, competitive video gaming (Yin et al., 2020). Esports requires a number of motor skills, mental skills, processing speed, fast reaction times, executive functioning, effective hand-eye coordination, and motivation to engage in (Yin et al., 2020). Research also suggests that playing only 3 hours of gaming a day can result in several injuries, including eye fatigue, computer vision syndrome, blurry vision, back pain, tension headache, wrist pain, carpal tunnel, hand pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, and poor vascular health (Sharma et al., 2020). In addition to physical injuries, research has shown that esport athletes’ mental strain is similar to those of pro football players and has been associated with a number of psychological/mental health issues. These concerns include depression, anxiety, apathy, uncooperative attitude, sleep disturbances, aggressive behaviors, social phobia, OCD, and ADHD. Research has shown health literacy has a large impact on an individual’s health. Low health literacy has been associated with decreased use of preventative services, poorer health status, poorer disease self-management, and individual health behaviors. Additionally, individuals with worse health literacy are more likely to have delayed diagnosis resulting in advanced illness and worse outcomes (Coughlin et al., 2020). With little research currently examining esport athletes' health literacy, we created a health literacy program to assess the baseline knowledge of esport athletes and to test the efficiency of a health literacy program on improving healthy habits. Our study is currently ongoing and expected to conclude data analysis at the beginning of April.

Inner Circle: A Women’s Health Management Pilot Program

Jasmin Gregory

In 2024, 512,007 single adults experienced homelessness, with 255,667 facing chronic homelessness, a group mainly comprising 68.4% men and 30% women (National Alliance to End Homelessness, 2024). This demographic has seen an increasing trend, with women becoming the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population. Homelessness has been linked to significant health disparities, as it affects life expectancy and access to quality healthcare services (American Institutes for Research, 2008). This study hypothesizes that participation in an occupation-based health management program will increase health management knowledge and awareness among women experiencing homelessness. The "Inner Circle: A Women’s Health Management Pilot Program" was implemented over five weeks at a women’s homeless shelter. A mixed-methods approach was utilized to assess the program’s implementation and outcomes. Quantitative data were collected through pre- and post-intervention assessments, while qualitative data were gathered through a focus group to evaluate participants' perceived experiences. The educational program included five weeks of modules on mental health, social skills, health literacy, and other essential life skills. Results are currently pending, with data collection set to conclude on March 31st. The final discussion and conclusions will follow.

Project X-VR

Zoe Grimes, Michael Reynolds, Yohan Joung

Among the most compelling use cases for simulation and virtual reality (VR) is scalable and interactive training. Project X-VR, created in collaboration with Air University (AU), was designed to answer the question: How can a VR program utilize multiplayer functionality and communication to enhance or provide an alternative to existing learning material? AU is a crucial part of the Air Education and Training Command and is dedicated to training and developing Air and Space warfighters. Project X-VR builds on and enhances previous multiplayer educational role-playing games (MPERPGs) platforms for the air force, offering training in the form of three main missions. Each mission emphasizes a different project learning outcome: communication, war-fighting, and critical thinking. Additionally, this research studies the effect of contested resources on each of these objectives. A user study will be conducted on faculty and staff from AU to collect data. Project X-VR is the first step towards a MPERPG framework that would outline how to build immersive, VR experiences that replicate the same cognitive challenges of a traditional military training session.

Sensory Processing and Parenthood

Camden Harrison, Camden Harrison, Patrick McHale, Delainey Stickley, Rachel Koerner

This study focused on how sensory processing (SP) is impacted by the transition into parenthood in relation to roles, routines, and responsibilities. Utilizing an exploratory mixed methods study, 69 participants completed a quantitative survey, and six participants completed a qualitative interview. The quantitative portion was measured to explore how altered routines and sensory demands of parenthood relate to SP. The qualitative interview focused on the perceptions of parents' SP before and after the transition into parenthood. The quantitative results revealed that participants reported a significant increase in SP challenges after transitioning into parenthood, with current SP being higher than pre-parenthood levels (W = 389.0, p < 0.001). A strong association was found between current SP and both the impact on parenting and frustration levels (rho: 0.7, p < 0.001). The four themes identified within the qualitative portion of the study were increased responsibility, changes in SP, the environment, and transitions into parenthood. The results of this study demonstrated an increase in sensory difficulties post-transition into parenthood, which impacted the parent's emotional response and ability to cope with daily challenges, leading to escalated frustration. Therefore, the findings emphasize the significant SP changes individuals experience during the transition to parenthood, highlighting the complex interplay between sensory challenges and parenting effectiveness.

How AI Has Influenced Music: A Research Review

Sophia Hoetmer

This study is set to examine the cross between music and AI. AI is shaping how we as a society can look at music as a role in the industry. As AI-generated compositions are becoming a thing, they are shaping how we as musicians are making music. In being able to look how AI is shaping musicians, there will be a study conducted that has a survey with questions on how AI is being used by people in the conservatory, especially music AI and also ChatGPT and others like Chat. I will take the responses given and compile a study plus a presentation on AI Music influences My methodology will be using a survey approach to be able to gather data about how people in the conservatory use AI. The study will take place over a two month gathering period where people will submit survey responses to the survey that I have put out for people to look at and review. The findings are very important because they will contribute to the discussion on whether AI serves as an innovative tool for musicians or if it limits the creativity and is a hindrance of musicians, the perception that some musicians think on AI and if they use any form of AI in their daily life, especially ChatGPT and the like. This is a very new medium so this would be beneficial to help us understand what AI can do and how AI can limit people.

Artificial Intelligence and Skill Decay

Rebecca Hopkins

In the field of Arts Management, particularly within the visual and performing arts, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly used for tasks such as advertisement creation, lighting design, and idea generation. Today, professionals from backgrounds of all kinds leverage AI to enhance workplace efficiency, improve industry outcomes, and organize their workflows. Scholars such as Brooke N. Macnamara, Catherine Malabou, and Radu Teampu have raised important concerns about the implications of AI on human cognition, creativity, and the future of work. As AI becomes more integrated into daily workplace operations, a critical question arises: what are the potential pitfalls of over-relying on AI? While AI offers significant benefits, it may also contribute to the decay of essential workplace skills and raise concerns about privacy and data security. When industry professionals rely on AI for completing day-to-day tasks, it is possible that the human beings behind the robots have forgotten how to fulfill these tasks on their own. This presentation explores the duality of AI in the workplace, analyzing both the benefits and potential pitfalls it poses to industry professionals and nonprofit arts organizations. Through the analysis of scholarly texts such as, “Does Using Artificial Intelligence Assistance Accelerate Skill Decay and Hinder Skill Development without Performers' Awareness?” by Brooke N. Macnamara, Morphing Intelligence: From IQ Measurement to Artificial Brains by Catherine Malabou, and “Emergence and Artificial Intelligence in the Performing Arts” by Radu Teampu, we can begin to understand the pros and cons of using AI technology in nonprofit arts organizations.

How Machine Learning Algorithms Can Be Optimized for Financial Fraud Detection

Steven Hugney

The continuous rise of credit card transactions has led to a simultaneous rise in criminal fraudulent activities, elevating the need for efficient, accurate fraud detection systems. Machine learning (ML) has become a basis for the models many institutions put into place, but there are often limitations and drawbacks, such as performance and operation time. This study utilizes and connects previous research to reveal key strategies that can be implemented to optimize ML algorithms for detecting credit card fraud (CCF). Automated feature engineering and intelligent feature selection, such as the Brown-Bear Optimization (BBO) algorithm, aim to enhance the Feature Selection (FS) process to produce more accurate models. CATCHM, a novel-network based model is studied to reveal undiscovered fraud patterns, as well as reveal the benefits of hyperparameter tuning and model stacking, further improving detection accuracy. Lastly, Weighted Extreme Learning Machines (WELM) are studied to handle the inevitable imbalanced fraud data to aid in model performance. Implementing these optimization techniques will lead to a strong performing ML model to aid in real time CCF detection, saving institutions from financial and client-trust losses.

The Use of Cannabinoids in Atopic Dermatitis (AD) and Psoriasis (PSO) and its Possible Use in AD/ PSO Overlapping Diseases

Angela Iannucci

Introduction: Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid, has been used to treat various medical conditions, including pain, epilepsy, nausea, and, more recently, chronic inflammatory skin diseases (CISDs). This evidence-based practice (EBP) project evaluated the use of topical CBD in reducing inflammatory symptoms in two prototypical CISDs: atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis (PSO). Purpose: The purpose was to explore the role of topical CBD in preserving skin health and homeostasis in AD and PSO. Also included is a brief theory on its potential as a treatment for rare AD/PSO overlapping diseases. Method: A rigorous search of electronic databases, including CINAHL Plus and PubMed, yielded 29 articles. Some articles were deemed irrelevant, duplicates, or secondary sources. This process resulted in 10 articles forming the basis of this EBP. Results: Cannabidiol (CBD) exerts influence at nearly every stage of cellular inflammation, affecting a diverse array of immune cells. It has been shown to diminish T and B-cell mediated responses, inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and reduce the activity of T-helper cells. Research indicates that CBD also affects keratinocyte proliferation and alters phospholipid profiles. Ultimately, this reduces symptoms such as redness, scaling, flaking, and hardening of the skin lesions. Conclusion: Research shows topical CBD effectively mitigates the inflammation associated with mild to moderate AD and PSO due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Cannabidiol (CBD) has fewer side effects, lower costs, and requires minimal patient education for use. Overall, a clinical practice change is warranted.

Heart Failure Medications Initiated Prior to Discharge in Postoperative Cardiac Surgery Patients with HFrEF

Lisa Jeffcoat

Introduction: Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) indicates poor cardiac contractility and is diagnosed if ejection fraction is under 40%. Guideline directed medication therapy (GDMT) currently recommends the combination of four “pillar” pharmacologic classes, where patients should be on one medication from each of the following classes: a renin-angiotensin aldosterone system inhibitor, beta-blocker, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, and a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i). Medications from each class have shown independent and additive benefits that offer cardiovascular protection to patients following a clinical event that contributes to worsening HFrEF. Identifying patients with HFrEF during hospitalization for surgery provides an ideal time to initiate and optimize GDMT before hospital discharge. This study aims to establish a baseline assessment of how many GDMT medications are prescribed to HFrEF patients prior to discharge after cardiac surgery. Methods: This study is a retrospective chart review using the electronic health record by the primary investigator. Patients with a HFrEF diagnosis before discharge are eligible for this study if they underwent cardiac surgery at Winchester Medical Center between Oct 2022-Dec 2025. Patients will be excluded if they are under 18 years old or are pregnant. The primary endpoint of this study is to determine the number of postoperative cardiac patients with HFrEF that are discharged on an SGLT2i. Secondary endpoints will determine the number of patients discharged with the other three medication classes or reasons why specific medications couldn’t be started. Results and Conclusions: In progress

Full Stage, Empty Seats: Increasing Audience Engagement for Classical Music Organizations

Raquel Johnson

Research Motivation: This research is motivated by the overall decrease in classical performing arts organizations’ audience engagement due to changing cultural preferences. Thesis: Classical performing arts organizations can increase audience engagement by cultivating emotionally resonant experiences that appeal to audience’s social-emotional needs. Literature Usage: Utilized literature includes Sloboda and Wise’s Going to a classical concert: the relationship between audience perceptions of artistic identity and motivation for future attendance (2016) which explores how actors’ characterizations impact audience engagement. Also discussed is Edelman and Sloboda’s Opera and emotion: The cultural value of attendance for the highly engaged (2016) which investigates self-reported causes behind devoted audience members’ emotional experiences. Woofle’s New York Times 2023 article, “Audiences are Coming back to Orchestras After ‘Scary’ Sales Last Fall” explores recent audience fears, motivations, and perceptions. Findings: Findings indicate that audiences are no longer content with formal, socially-alienating performance experiences. As humans, audiences are social creatures; they seek connection through art. Performing arts organizations must foster audience’s innate desire for social-emotional connection with artists and other audience members. Successful tactics include increasing sensory stimuli during performances, such as incorporating scents and colored lighting. Other successful tactics include performing works that attract niche audiences and providing avenues for social interaction during and after performances. Conclusion: When interacting with art, audiences crave a holistic sensory, emotional, and social experience. To fully engage audiences, classical performing arts organizations can reimagine traditional performance models to appeal to audience’s immersive desires. Organizations must provide the physical, social, and emotional opportunity to cultivate stimulating, empathetic interactions amongst audience members and with the organization.

Lord Fairfax CHA Analysis

Emma Johnson, Madison Perry

The goal of the Community Health Assessment (CHA) is to identify priority issues regarding community health within the area of the Lord Fairfax Health District. In addition, particular geographic areas and population data are collected in order to address the root causes of community health issues and promote health equity. The Lord Fairfax Health District utilizes the Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships (MAPP) framework to form the CHA. The MAPP framework is composed of three phrases, with the first phase being to build community health, phase two telling the community story through assessments, and lastly, phase three is to continuously improve the community. In a joint effort with the Lord Fairfax Health District, we distributed these surveys and will analyze the data collected based on geographical location and social determinants of health. Our research question will be developed based on data collected in the CHA and analyzed with secondary data for comparison. We will be using the CHA data and secondary data to detect trends in health behaviors, compare different demographics, and formulate statistical analysis through Qcamap, a statistical analysis tool. Based on our data analysis, we will discuss the implications of our findings and the recommended future public health initiatives.

Assessing Healthcare Professionals' Knowledge, Awareness, and Treatment Practices of Sandifer Syndrome

Amy Jones, Jennifer Lincoln, Mallory Mahoney , Brianna Kelly, Kevin Suarez, Stephanie Der

Sandifer Syndrome is a rare disorder seen in infants characterized by hypertonia, dystonic movements of the neck and back, and abnormal posturing after feeding. Current literature supports medical treatment of Sandifer Syndrome, such as medications and diet modifications. However, lack of evidence supporting interventions for Sandifer Syndrome by rehabilitation professionals suggests there is a gap in knowledge among rehabilitation and medical professionals. This limited knowledge can lead to inadequate care for infants suspected of or diagnosed with Sandifer Syndrome. This study aims to examine the knowledge of Sandifer Syndrome among healthcare professionals, including the guidelines for the identification and treatment of the disorder. This study utilized a cross-sectional exploratory design with a nondirectional hypothesis, and following IRB approval, 40 participants were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Mixed methods analyses will be conducted with the survey and interview data. Results and conclusions are forthcoming.

Artistic Health for Children: How the Arts Can Support Children’s Mental Health

Madeleine Kee

Artistic Health for Children: How the Arts Can Support Children’s Mental Health “According to a 2019 report by the National Arts Education Data Project, more than 2 million students in the United States didn't have access to arts education,” (Arts Education Partnership). Arts education has staggering mental health benefits for all children, but especially to those in abusive homes, foster care, and/or those that do not have proper access to arts education. Together, we can explore how arts education benefits a child’s mental health and emotional intelligence. Not only that, but the importance of exactly how arts education should be taught and presented to children will be covered in this research. “Drawing inspiration from artists who respond to trauma and/or come from positions of minoritized vulnerability is pretty crucial, as is being sure to discuss the content and context of those works rather than simply their media and form.—Albert Stabler” (Taylor and Francis). Creating a mentally stable environment encouraging connection and belonging in students could help prevent more mass tragedies from occurring in the future. If a child who has been beaten in their home, for instance, and manipulated into thinking otherwise, can engage in drawing, coloring, or acting out a play, they can process their emotions and share the truth about their home life in a therapeutic way. Throughout this research, there will be discovery about how art can relieve stress, promote creativity, and how the arts can be taught and presented in a therapeutic way that can help children that become school shooters, are victims of abuse, in foster care, or simply do not have the funds or any access whatsoever to arts education. Keywords: arts, education, mental health, children, abuse, gun violence, school shootings

AI Publishing Assistant for Manuscript Evaluation

Abigail Keene

I am developing an AI publishing tool to enhance the manuscript review process by converting full-length books and manuscripts into concise, one page summaries. Designed for authors, editors, and publishers, it employs advanced algorithms and natural language processing to analyze key components of the text, offering valuable insights to optimize the manuscript for publication. Initially, it evaluates the readability of the manuscript using the Flesch-Kincaid grading scale, used to provide a numerical measure of text quality and complexity based on the target reading level. It assesses the target audience by identifying the best demographic suited for the story, ensuring the content is tailored to the ideal audience. In addition to analyzing readability and audience, the AI publishing tool also thoroughly analyzes the quality and style of writing. It evaluates tone, sentence structure, and overall writing coherence to assist writers in refining their work for a better, more interesting final product. It provides an analysis of the plot structure by identifying various elements such as pacing, character development, and narrative structure of the manuscript. Additionally, there is a visual aspect the AI produces which suggests different cover design ideas based on the genre and tone, ensuring that the book’s cover aligns with its themes and is targeted for the audience. This system assists in the marketing efforts and identifies comparable manuscripts based on similar works and suggests possible strategies for publication and promotion. Ultimately, this AI tool can save significant amounts of time for agents and publishers, helping to ensure the manuscript is effectively tailored for its ideal readership.

The Boston Celtics: Data and Statistics To Win a Championship

Gabby Krystofiak

This research is centered around the NBA team, the Boston Celtics. Its focus is centered around finding out where the statistics for the Celtics need to be in order to win a NBA Championship. I have gathered data from past Celtic's season where they have lost in different rounds of the playoffs and won different rounds. All of that data was used in a cluster analysis to help me find an outcome for this research question; Where does the Celtic's statistics need to be in order to win a championship?

Perioperative Statin Utilization in Cardiac Surgery Patients

Haley Kuehner

Poster Title: Perioperative Statin Utilization in Cardiac Surgery Patients Submission Category: Primary Author: Haley Kuehner Secondary Authors: Marcia Brackbill, Pharm.D., BCPS Introduction: Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) is a surgical treatment modality for patients with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Due to the presence of already established disease, these patients are at a very high risk for future adverse cardiovascular (CV) events. Prevention of future events, by lowering cholesterol, is essential. Current clinical practice guidelines recommend that CABG patients should be placed on a high intensity statin after surgery to lower low density lipoprotein (LDL) by > 50% in order to reduce the risk of future CV events. It is common for CABG patients to have a history of hyperlipidemia and be on statin therapy. However, it is currently unknown how many patients undergoing CABG are prescribed a high intensity statin prior to surgery as well as how many patients are prescribed a high intensity statin at discharge. Methods: This study is a retrospective, descriptive study that will evaluate patients undergoing CABG at a 495 bed community hospital. Patients are eligible for study inclusion if they underwent surgery at Winchester Medical Center between the dates 10/22 - 12/24. The primary endpoint of this study is to determine the number of cardiac surgery patients that were prescribed a high intensity statin at hospital discharge. A high intensity statin will be defined as 40-80 mg of atorvastatin or 20-40 mg of rosuvastatin. Secondary endpoints will determine which statin agent patients were using prior to admission (with dose), and which statin agent was prescribed at discharge (with dose). Results and Conclusions: In progress

Exploring the Impacts of Acquired Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) on Occupational Performance

Alexis Kurtianyk, Rachel Alfonso, Kelsey Pendzich, Kayla Purcell, Olivia Lafferty, Courtney Schlund

The purpose of this study was to explore the impacts of acquired traumatic brain injury (TBI) on occupational performance. We used the modified occupational self assessment (OSA) short form in a self identified survey to collect data. The OSA short form is an assessment that is used to measure how an individual perceives and values their ability to complete their activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). This survey was shared by posting to social media and emailing local clinics. There were 95 participants who completed the survey. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) where appropriate statistical tests were applied. Results and discussion are forthcoming. This study is intended to provide a deeper understanding to medical providers of the effects TBIs have on occupational performance.

Social Media and the Art of Theatre

Amber Leitsch

Social media has become a powerful tool in many industries, and theatre is no exception. This research dives into how social media is transforming not only the way shows are marketed but also how they’re created and experienced. It shows that social media has moved beyond promotion and is shaping the very content of theatre, broadening its reach to new audiences. By looking at productions like Dear Evan Hansen and Beetlejuice, we see how platforms like TikTok have opened up theatre to a whole new generation of people who might never have considered attending a show. These platforms are influencing not just marketing but also the creative process, inspiring new directions in playwriting and direction. For example, Dear Evan Hansen used social media as a character in its story, while Beetlejuice found fresh success by connecting with TikTok users. Sources like Rolling Stone’s article, "Can TikTok Save Beetlejuice?" (2023), Playbill’s piece on Music Theatre International’s new social media marketing kits, and research by Dills (2023) also show how crucial these tools have become for productions. Research from Besana et al. (2018) highlights how social media has grown from a simple marketing tactic to a central part of shaping theatre today. This research shows that social media isn’t just a marketing tool—it's a game changer for the theatre industry, impacting everything from audience engagement to creative expression. Moving forward, understanding this influence will be key to ensuring theatre’s continued growth and relevance in a digital world.

BRWC "Wood Turtle Habitats" Immersive Media

El Lillard, Gabrielle Pieklo, Fabronia Farowez

Different departments of Shenandoah University partnered with Blue Ridge Wildlife Center to create an immersive experience to educate individuals about Wood Turtle habitats. These departments are: Virtual Reality (VR) Design/Shenandoah Center for Immersive Learning (SCiL), Environmental Science, Art, Language, and Film. Blue Ridge Wildlife Center strives to protect and conserve native wildlife in the Northern Virginia area. SCiL creates VR experiences to help teach people a variety of subjects. This project focused on creating a VR (Meta Quest 3) and computer application to teach those who are interested in Wood turtles about their habitats, including underwater habitats. In collaboration with Professor Lee Graff, SCiL Immersive Media Specialist, and Ally DiGrassi, Associate Professor Environmental Studies and Biology, we captured 360° video of different habitats that these turtles would live in at the Cool Springs Campus. We used a canoe to capture underwater video from the Shenandoah River. Afterwards, the videos were edited in Adobe Premiere Pro to remove people and cut down the length. They then were put into a VR environment using Unreal Engine to create a main hub and ten different worlds, with each video having their own world and information about that habitat. In the future, the project will be adapted into a desktop computer version to reach a wider audience. This production can also serve as a foundation for similar experiences about other species.

The Effects of Various Chemical Exposures on C. elegans Lifespan

Isabella Luis, Elizabeth

Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), a nematode species with an extensively studied genome, are a common laboratory model animal with an average lifespan of two to three weeks. We use this model organism to understand chemical influences on lifespan. While lifespan in C. elegans is substantially shorter than humans, the hallmarks of aging are comparable. We studied three chemicals: caffeine, a stimulant found in many beverages; vitamin B-12, found in fortified foods and essential for metabolism; and red-dye 40, a food color additive. Agar plates were treated with one of the three chemicals listed above. Larval C. elegans were moved onto the plates and allowed to complete their development and decline with appropriate nourishment and environmental conditions. C. elegans were counted every two-to-three days until all animals died. Once the experiment concluded, data analysis was done to generate tables and linear graphs for all experimental and control groups. Preliminary findings indicate that experimental treatments triggered changes in lifespan when compared to control animals. Experiments are currently ongoing to replicate our findings and provide stronger statistical significance. Our goal with these experiments is to determine how chemical exposures applicable to humans impact lifespan in organisms with shared molecular pathways.

The Impact of Therapeutic Listening ® with Pediatric Patients Currently Receiving Applied Behavior Analysis Interventions

Elizabeth Mann

Integrating evidence-based collaborative services between behavioral and allied health professionals can expand skill development opportunities for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Current research underutilizes a direct interdisciplinary approach that bridges applied behavioral analysis (ABA) and occupational therapy (OT). Further research, combined with collaborative efforts between services, will help clarify perceptions of behavioral and allied health services, addressing existing polarizing viewpoints. The impact of the Therapeutic Listening ® (TL) program during eight weeks combined with ongoing ABA treatment plans with this population is ongoing within this study. Participants actively attend an ABA clinic to receive treatment with an ASD diagnosis and are between the ages of 5 to 17. TL is an evidence-based listening program that utilizes modified music to stimulate neurological connection development which supports foundational functional skill development across developmental domains. With the stimulation of additional neurological connections with pediatric participants during a phase of greater neuroplasticity, an opportunity arises to improve the quality of life (QoL) of participants and their collaborative systems (i.e. family, community, education, healthcare). TL has the potential to reduce the burden of care within all systems for the pediatric ASD population with increased intervention awareness. Some current barriers include accessibility to interventions and opportunities to generalize skills with the ever-increasing pace and diversity of the U.S. family lifestyle.

Bringing Arts to Schools: A Look at Advocating for Arts Education Outside of Public Education

Marissa Marissa

As a professional in arts education, I see the first hand effects of the arts on students but I wanted to further my research on the idea. In this presentation I will examine the impact of arts education on both neurotypical and neurodivergent students and discuss why it is so important to create educational programs within nonprofit arts organizations. I found that an education in the arts can promote, not only academic, but social and interpersonal skills in children and young adults. Students that study the arts tend to have higher reading and speaking abilities than their peers who do not study the arts. Arts education students also have a lower dropout rate than non- arts students. But, even with all the benefits, arts education programs are not always considered essential programs. When it comes to policy makers, arts programs are often the first programs on the chopping block, which then cuts off many students from their benefits. Through my research from The Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, TIME Magazine, Arts policy reviews, the New York Times, and many other sources, I found that one solution to this problem could be the creation of a national nonprofit arts organization that provides arts education. As educational departments in arts organizations continue to grow, we should keep looking for ways to make an education in the arts accessible to all students who have the desire to learn like Arts Education Partners.

Investigating Contaminants in Abrams Creek by Measuring Transcription of Toxicant Responsive Genes in the Fathead Minnow (Pimephales promelas)

Sophia Menyhart, Savannah Lewis, Mackenzie Watkins

Abrams Creek is a spring-fed stream that flows through the SU campus and the city of Winchester. Despite a lack of industry in the area, since 1996 the creek has been classified as an impaired waterway by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. This classification is the result of macroinvertebrate surveys suggesting that the waters of the creek are polluted. However, there is little information on the type or quantity of pollutants contained therein. Due to the expense of directly measuring creek contaminants, we sought to identify pollutants through evaluating transcription of toxicant responsive genes in a native fish, the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas). Larval P. promelas were reared in creek or control conditions for 2 weeks; larvae were then processed for RNA purification, reverse transcription and qPCR. We measured expression of genes encoding estrogen receptors, detoxification enzymes, and metal clearing proteins. Our results will elucidate the types of contaminants that are physiologically relevant to fish native to the Abrams Creek habitat.

Listen and Share: Utilizing Story Telling as Healing in Theatrical Practices

Molly Miller

Mental health remains a pressing concern in the United States. Increasing frequency of natural disasters, pandemics, polarizing hate, and acts of terror have resulted in a heightened presence of mental health conditions. While humans cannot control nature, we can mitigate hate and promote healing practices. One way to do this is by sharing stories, which is shown to encourage empathy and connection with measurable results. Playback theatre, in particular, offers an opportunity for personal and communal healing. This research will highlight the intersection of healing and story telling through examination of historical context, scientific research, and the Playback theatre form. Sources will include studies such as “Neural correlates and network connectivity underlying narrative production and comprehension” by scientists at the University of Maryland and National Institutes of Health, and “A Pilot Study on Playback Theatre as a Therapeutic Aid after Natural Disasters: Brain Connectivity Mechanisms of Effects on Anxiety,” a joint effort by Baylor College of Medicine and the Houston Playback Theatre. Research will also include specific examples such as “Playback Theatre as a tool to enhance communication in medical education,” an experimental integration of Playback theatre in medical training and “Playback theatre in adult day centers: A creative group intervention for community-dwelling older adults,” a study that examines the responses of elderly individuals to participation in Playback theatre. This research will provide an inspirational guide for theatre leaders and a reminder of the collective power of the arts.

Public Funding Models vs. Private Funding Model Impact in Arts Education Opportunities for Adolescents

Dasia-Marie Mitchell

This research focuses on the topic: "What is the impact of public funding models vs. private funding models in arts education opportunities for adolescents?" with a particular emphasis on the differences in operations and instruction between nonprofit and for-profit arts organizations. The review emphasizes points such as Edin G. West's contention that community enrichment is a top priority for nonprofit arts groups, which frequently depend on grants and contributions. This approach can restrict financial stability but promote artistic flexibility and accessibility. On the other hand, other private arts schools like Interlochen, which are for-profit, offer exceptional results and intensive instruction, but their price constraints make them inaccessible to disadvantaged populations. In order to maintain community outreach and assure financial sustainability, scholars like Goldstein, Pope, Arthurs, Hodsoll, and Lavine all support a hybrid funding approach that combines nonprofit and for-profit tactics. This hybrid strategy is recommended as a way for achieving a balance between mission-driven objectives and financial stability. As an adolescent, with little to no experience, and from an underprivileged area, I myself struggled in finding quality arts education. Using synthesized research, this analysis focuses on the benefits of hybrid approaches in which extends fair access to arts education across socio-economic divides, thus improving developmental and academic results for underrepresented adolescents. The results show that a hybrid funding strategy can help the economic and financial challenges faced by both nonprofit and for-profit models, ultimately creating a foundation for arts education that is not only more accessible, but also more sustainable.

The Birds, The Bees and The Boundaries

Casey Morren

People with disabilities often have worse health outcomes than their peers without disabilities. It is shown that children with disabilities are not receiving much education through classes or their parents, teachers, health professionals, peers, or media (Chou et al., 2018; Kahonde & Johns, 2022; Klein et al., 2005). Adolescents with disabilities who are not being properly educated on sexual health partake in riskier sexual behavior and could be at a higher risk of harm (Oladunni, 2012; Tsuda et al., 2017). People with disabilities have been shown to have lower levels of sexual activity (Baines et al, 2018) and have also been shown to have lower satisfaction with their sexual lives than people without sexual activity (Mamali et al., 2020). While still making headway in having conversations about sexual health with people with disabilities, empowering parents to have these conversations with their children will allow them to do so on their own timeline as a family. This research study is a 4 week virtual class for parents of children with disabilities. Parents will attend sexual health educational classes based off concepts from the Occupational Therapy Sexually Assessment Framework. Classes will be separated into groups of children ages and parents will be discussing topics with peers. Participants are hypothesized to have an increased in preparedness to talk about sexual health with their children after attending sexual health educational classes. Parents will be given the tools to discuss sexual health topics that might be seen as difficult with their child(ren) with disabilities.

The Role of Occupational Therapy Educational Tools for Dementia Caregivers

Sarah Morrison

This study examines whether participation in occupational therapy (OT) education sessions decreases caregiver burden while enhancing confidence, knowledge, and well-being in dementia caregivers. Caregiving is a demanding and stressful occupation, particularly for those supporting individuals with dementia. There are currently more than 55 million people living with dementia worldwide, and nearly 10 million new cases of Alzheimer’s disease each year (Brodaty & Donkin, 2022; WHO, 2023). This increase in prevalence elicits an increase in demands for both informal and formal caregivers. Due to the progressive nature of dementia, individuals require high-intensity care, leading to significant physical and psychological strain on caregivers. Informal caregivers, such as family members, experience high levels of burden, stress, and health complications (Basque, 2017; Shin & Kim, 2022). Similarly, formal caregivers in nursing and care homes are at increased risk of emotional exhaustion, burnout, and depression (Franzmann et al., 2016; Vandrevala, 2017). This study seeks to lessen these effects and increase confidence by providing one-on-one educational sessions lasting approximately 2 hours. Topics include dementia characteristics, dementia types, behavioral management strategies, caregiving techniques, balancing occupations, meaningful activities for those with dementia, environmental adaptations, self-care techniques, and community resources. This program will utilize a quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design guided by the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) Model. This contributes to existing literature by offering a combination of structured educational methods applicable to both formal and informal caregivers across all stages of dementia. By incorporating an OT lens, this approach aims to improve caregivers’ occupational performance as well as their approach to caregiving. References: 1) Basque, S. R. (2017). Goals of family caregivers of persons with dementia across the caregiving career. Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository, 5116. https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/5116 2) Brodaty, H. & Donkin, M. (2022). Family caregivers of people with dementia. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 11(2), 217-228. https://doi.org/10.31887/DCNS.2009.11.2/hbrodaty 3) Franzmann, J., Haberstroh, J., & Pantel, J. (2016). Train the trainer in dementia care. A program to foster communication skills in nursing home staff caring for dementia patients. Zeitschrift Fur Gerontologie Und Geriatrie, 49(3), 209–215. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00391-016-1041-1 4) Shin, J. H., & Kim, J. H. (2022). Family caregivers of people with dementia associate with poor health-related quality of life: A nationwide population-based study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(23), 16252. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316252 5) Vandrevala, T., Samsi, K., Rose, C., Adenrele, C., Barnes, C., & Manthorpe, J. (2017). Perceived needs for support among care home staff providing end of life care for people with dementia: A qualitative study. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 32(2), 155–163. https://doi.org/10.1002/gps.4451 6) World Health Organization. (2023). Dementia. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia

Use of Skeletal Muscle Relaxers to Reduce Postoperative Opioid Use in Major Abdominal Surgeries

Elizabeth Neiman

Purpose: Postoperative pain in abdominal surgeries is mediated by opioids but with a recent push in opioid stewardship from multiple organizations to combat the overuse of these potentially addictive and harmful medications, the exploration of other pharmaceutical methods for pain management is essential. Although there is evidence that skeletal muscle relaxers are effective in managing postoperative pain outside of major abdominal surgeries, there is little evidence for their use in major abdominal surgeries. The purpose of this study is to compare the use of postoperative opioids in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery who were given perioperative cyclobenzaprine to patients in the same population who were not given perioperative cyclobenzaprine. Methods: A retrospective observational study will be conducted by performing an electronic chart review of patients 18 years old or older, admitted for major abdominal surgery for at least 48 hours, and were classified using the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Physical Status Classification System as Class I-III. The planned primary outcome of the study is total opioid consumption in MME 48 hours post-operatively. Planned secondary outcomes include total opioid consumption in MME 24 hours and 72 hours postoperatively, average 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour postoperative pain score, hospital length of stay, reported delirium, use of antipsychotics, and discharge opioid MME. Data to be collected and analyzed will include patient baseline demographics, specific agents for intraoperative pain management, and pharmacological agents used for 72-hour postoperative pain management. Results: Pending data collection.

Lift Like a Lady: Menstrual Periodization Strength Training

Michaela Oberholzer

Context: Strength training is imperative to enhancing sports performance and returning to activity after injury. Hormonal shifts during the menstrual cycle (i.e., increased estrogen during the follicular phase and increased progesterone during the luteal phase) may alter the effectiveness of strength training for eumenorrheic athletes. We aimed to determine whether menstrual cycle periodization strength training improves muscle strength and hypertrophy more than conventional strength training in eumenorrheic female athletes. Methods: Searches were conducted in August 2024 using PubMed, SportsDiscus, and CINAHL utilizing the terms “luteal phase strength training.” Articles were included if they were published in the past 5 years. Reference lists of systematic reviews were hand screened and identified in the search. Three original research articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria for this Critically Appraised Topic. Results: All included articles agreed that follicular phase strength training programs were more effective at strength building than luteal phase training or conventional training techniques. All forms of training had a significant increase in strength and muscle diameter (P<0.5), but absolute increases in strength and muscle diameter were greater with follicular phase training (P<0.5). The included articles ranged from Levels 2-4 on the OCEBM guidelines. These articles received a SORT grade of B due to their moderate quality and consistent findings. Conclusions: Evidence suggests that prioritizing follicular phase strength training increases strength and muscle diameter more than traditional training methods in eumenorrheic women. In eumenorrheic women, syncing strength training with the menstrual cycle may improve strength-based goals.

Lewis and Clark VR

Gabrielle Pieklo, Ann Fink, Tyler Dossat, Ethan Swope, Jacob Eisenhart, Jaden Galloway

The Lewis and Clark project focuses on the Corps of Discovery from 1803-1806 and compiles that information into a Virtual Reality application. The research for this project consisted of existing media about the expedition, such as books and documentaries, and a cross-country road trip visiting various locations along the Lewis and Clark Trail collecting media to expand on the existing knowledge. The media collected during the trip includes photos, videos and 3D scans of various objects, 360 photos of each location, and interviews of people who are either part of the Lewis and Clark Trail Alliance or know the history substantially. The creation of the VR app will help students understand the content and exercise immersive learning as an innovative method of education. It uses the research and media collected from the road trip to create new content for the user to be immersed in. The immersive experience includes a video description of the location and its significance, 3D models of the 3D scanned objects, and virtual environments designed to mimic the historical location as it would have been during the expedition.

The Presence of Lower Limb Imbalances of Flexibility, Balance, and Strength Among Collegiate Dancers

Maria Pomares

Background: Dance requires athleticism and artistry to execute repetitive movements while considering aesthetic demands. While the goal of a dancer is to be a symmetrical instrument, the dancer’s body and experience create preferences and imbalances. Body asymmetries are considered contributors to injuries, many of which are chronic lower limb musculoskeletal injuries, but there is limited conclusive research on the impact of side imbalance and asymmetries on injury in collegiate dancer populations, warranting further investigation into this topic. Methods: Dance majors at Shenandoah University (n=20) completed a questionnaire collecting basic demographics (age, sex, gender) and a twelve-month injury history of the lower limbs. In addition, lower limb flexibility, balance, and strength were measured using a standard two-arm goniometer, the Y-Balance Test, and the 5 Repetition Maximum (5RM) test, respectively. Results: The results showed a statistically significant difference in the range of motion between left and right foot plantar flexion (t(19) = 4.892, p < .001, d = 1.09). A correlational relationship was found between the difference in hip extension between the lower limbs and the total number of injuries experienced (r(18) = -.453, p = .045) with a greater hip extension being correlated with fewer lower limb injuries. Conclusion: This study revealed an asymmetry between the right and left limbs in dancers’ plantar flexion and a relationship between hip extension and injuries incurred. Further research is needed to develop complementary programs to address undesired plantar flexion asymmetries in dancer populations.

Beyond the Build: Long-Term Economic Impacts of TIGER Transportation Investments

Benjamin Rayburn

The 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), enacted to combat the 2008 recession, aimed to stimulate the economy through infrastructure, education, and energy investments. A key component was the TIGER grant program, allocating over $60 billion to nearly 1500 transportation projects. These projects primarily fall into three categories: highway rehabilitation, public transportation improvements, and active transportation projects. While all aim to boost the economy and create jobs, their long-term impact may differ. Highway projects generate significant short-term employment, but active and public transportation projects are theorized to provide more sustained economic growth. This capstone project will analyze which TIGER/BUILD funded project types best fulfill the ARRA's goals. Data will be gathered from mandatory economic impact reports from grant recipients, local jurisdictional reports, and analyses from transportation nonprofits like the ENO Center. The findings will be used to create policy recommendations for future infrastructure project selections.

Incorporation in Incarceration

Alexandra Reid

Occupational Therapy is a commonly used form of therapeutic treatment that enables individuals of various backgrounds to find strength in daily activities. Some examples of daily activities can include getting dressed, hygiene, walking, and more. This form of treatment is very beneficial to individuals who may struggle with a brain injury, autism, PTSD, and those with physical limitations as well. During incarceration, individuals are subjected to exacerbated mental, physical, and social challenges. Alongside these challenges, there is limited access to rehabilitation and therapeutic support. Incarcerated individuals often go overlooked or unseen as their struggles become blended with their punishment. Incorporating Occupational Therapy in correctional facilities could promote communication skills, coping mechanisms, and rehabilitation, while also assisting in successful reintegration into society. Occupational Therapists focus on challenging activities and adaptive mechanisms that can enhance cognition, motivation, and emotional or physical well-being. Based on a comprehensive literature review, this paper argues that incarcerated individuals should be provided with the opportunity for occupational therapy during their sentence because it can hold large benefits in their personal growth and assist them in re-entering society.

Preconception Health & Care: Exploring the Knowledge & Perceptions of Hispanic, Free-Clinic Patients

Taylor Reynolds

Background: Preconception health (PCH) refers to the overall health status and reproductive risks of couples prior to pregnancy, while the goal of preconception care (PCC) is to optimize the health of future pregnancies and birth outcomes via improved health of the couple. Awareness and uptake of PCC varies across populations in the US, and even less is known about its use in immigrant and Spanish-speaking communities. Aims: The aim of this pilot study was to explore the knowledge and perceptions of PCC in a sample of Hispanic, previously pregnant individuals seeking care at a free clinic. Methods: N=23 recently/currently pregnant persons (age 18+) were recruited via a free clinic in Winchester, VA from February-May 2024. A convenience sample was recruited and interviewed in Spanish using a structured interview. Results: Most participants were foreign-born (78.3%), in a relationship (73.9%), 30+ years old (52.2%), uninsured (43.5%), and had a >=high school education (82.6%). Typically, participants had 3+ pregnancies (52.2%) and reported ‘ambivalence’ on the most recent pregnancy (56.5%). Despite reproductive experience, PCH knowledge questions were answered primarily incorrectly (range 44% - 75% per question). Generally, participants were unafraid of PCC (73.9%), ‘disagree’ that it is unnecessary (73.9%) or solely for infertility issues (56.5%), and would use accessible & free PCC if it were offered (69.6%). Conclusion: There is a discrepancy in participants' knowledge compared to perspectives on and willingness to use PCC. This indicates a critical gap that educational programs/materials and communication on PCH could bridge in this increasing population.

Military Resilience and the Performing Arts

Naythen Rinehart

The military has a long history of supporting entertainment programs, especially during wartime, to foster resilience and morale among service members and veterans. This study focuses on the vital role that performing arts, particularly drama therapy, supports those undergoing mental health issues and increasing resilience among military communities. The literature review highlights these studies on several practices of drama therapy emphasizing its ability to reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms, improve self-esteem, and strengthen social connections and relationships. The research explores drama therapeutic programs through case studies from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, the Centre for the Arts in Human Development at Concordia University, and the Veterans Center for Performing Arts that produce results supporting the positive impact on veterans and individuals with disabilities. The findings show that art-based therapeutic practices like role-play and narrative therapy help foster healing and a sense of community among the participants. The conclusion strongly argues that performing arts programs and drama therapy are vital for personal growth and essential for military readiness, providing emotional, social, and physiological benefits. The continued inclusion of these programs in military communities point toward the performing arts being a necessary recreation.

Perspectives of US adults on Incorporating Dance to Improve Health Outcomes and Reduce Sedentariness Associated with Remote Working: A Cross-Sectional Study

Annika Rodoff

Background: Prolonged daily sedentary time has been linked to extensive negative health effects and is becoming alarmingly prevalent among US adults. Those employed in remote positions experience elevated sedentariness. As the widespread shift to remote work persists, dance-centered physical activity interventions present as novel yet inadequately researched approaches to interrupting daily sedentary time and improving well-being with considerable effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptance. Methods: A five-minute online anonymous questionnaire was sent to a convenience sample of US adults to capture their beliefs regarding sedentariness and their preferences between dance-centered versus traditional exercise-based physical activity interventions given their lifestyles and typical occupational structures. N=20 was targeted; currently, n=51, and the questionnaire remains open until March 12, 2025. Results: The questionnaire data will be utilized to describe US adults’ lifestyles and trends in attitudes toward a dance-centered physical activity intervention. This data will be analyzed to compare and acknowledge significant associations on the basis of age group, sex, occupational structure, and typical occupational sitting time with preferences on intervention delivery method and willingness to engage in dance to improve health. Conclusion: This study will inform healthcare and dance professionals on building a well communicated, implemented, and tailored dance-centered physical activity intervention program that effectively interrupts sedentary time and reduces risk of adverse health outcomes. Future research is needed to examine the health benefits of specific dance styles as well as determine the optimal frequency and intensity of dance practice involved with this intervention for this population to achieve lowered disease risk.

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, Social Engagement & Anxiety: A Survey Study

Mary Ruppert, Tamara Neiderer, Cassidy Wilson, Maddie Dougaree, Madeline Renalds, Sarah Bekhet

Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) can impact an individual mentally, emotionally, and socially. Studies comparing PFD, anxiety, and social participation are insufficient and limited. A holistic understanding of how PFD, anxiety, and occupational participation interact with one another could support occupational therapists in implementing treatments with more successful outcomes such as improving quality of life for clients with PFD. This study investigates the correlation between severity of PFD, level of anxiety, and ability to engage in social participation in cisgender women between the ages of 18-65. A survey design incorporated the Pelvic Floor Disability Index, the Social Participation subsection of the Occupation Self-Assessment for Pelvic Health, and the General Anxiety Disorder-7 scale. Over 200 participants in this study were recruited through convenience sampling. Various flyers were distributed amongst healthcare and fitness facilities, childcare centers, public community centers, local businesses, university campuses, Shenandoah University-related list serves, word of mouth, and on social media including Facebook and Instagram. Data collection will be through March 6. Results and Discussion sections to follow.

Skeuomorphic Representation of Physical Interfaces Focused on Customizability and Scalability

Noah Shenk

The skeuomorphic representation of physical user interfaces has long been employed due to its familiarity but has been found to lack customizability and scalability. In the past, skeuomorphic user interface design proved to have high recognizability and recall speed among all age groups in comparison to other design philosophies, like flat user interface design. Previous studies exhibiting these trends were conducted on small groups of people though, which makes their findings somewhat unreliable on their own. Looking at data from many studies covering different, smaller ranges of testing environments, age groups, and types and difficulty of tasks performed by the subjects can be synthesized to create a single, balanced representation of the advantages and disadvantages of user interface design philosophies. Through this collection of information, the overall trend of skeuomorphic interface design being generally preferred can be gleaned. Utilizing this trend and analyzing the history of user interface design, a method of increasing the customizability and scalability of skeuomorphic user interfaces is possible, exemplifying the advantages of multiple user interface design philosophies.

Foster Care Experiences Impact on Transitioning to Independent Living

Lila Shipley, Ashley Neff, Jessica Becks, Ashley Marshall , Jennifer Capper, Tysha Kuglin

Mental health impacts all aspects of life. Research suggests that children who have been in foster care have higher rates of mental health issues than their peers, which can result in making the transition to independent living challenging. Research has explored the experiences of children in the foster care system, but few have examined the effects of mental health on individuals who have transitioned out of the foster care system. Our study investigates how being in the foster care system can impact an individual’s relationships, access to higher education, self-care, and sleep once they have left the system. Using this data, we aim to find how occupational therapy can play a role in the transition into independent living. A mixed methods approach will be employed, using quantitative data gathered from a survey, and qualitative data gathered from semi-structured interviews of former foster youth. The analysis will be conducted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Dedoose software. It will provide insights into how occupational therapists can support young adults transitioning out of the foster care system.

Effect of Music BPM on 400m Times

Samantha Shy, Seamus Patenaude

Music has been credited for its ability to influence mood, motivation, and physiological responses (Terry et al., 2020). There is evidence from previous studies that music can distract exercisers from unpleasant sensations, which may lead to increased endurance or improved work rate (Terry et al., 2020). The current study aimed to examine the effects of music tempo, measured in beats per minute (BPM), on 400-meter running performance in college students. Specifically, we hypothesized that higher BPM music would result in faster running times. A total of 12 participants (5 females, 7 males, ages 18-20), including eight athletes and four non-athletes, completed four randomized crossover trials: no music, self-selected music, music 20% of their preferred BPM, and music 120% of their preferred BPM. Participants ran their trials on an outdoor track and we measured running times using an iPhone. Results from a one-way within-subjects ANOVA indicated a significant effect of music tempo on performance, F(3, 33) = 24.41, p < .001, η² = 0.69. Participants ran significantly faster with high BPM music compared to low BPM music and no music. Additionally, participants performed well with their song of choice, suggesting that personal preference and familiarity may play a role in performance. The findings support existing literature indicating that music influences cadence and motivation, likely through dopamine release and sensory-motor synchronization. However, the highest BPM condition did not result in the fastest times, suggesting a potential threshold where exercise intensity reduces neurological influences from external stimuli.

Evaluating Pharmacist Practices in Using Sex Assigned at Birth vs. Gender Identity for Clinical Calculations in Transgender and Gender-Diverse Patients: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Jessica Sinclair, Kaitlyn Pierson

Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) 10-year risk calculator in transgender and gender-diverse patients. This study evaluated pharmacist practices regarding these calculations. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted (October 2024–February 2025) among American College of Clinical Pharmacy and Virginia Society of Health-System Pharmacists members. Licensed pharmacists who performed these calculations within the past six months were included. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. Results Among 150 respondents, 126 performed creatinine clearance calculations, and 93 used the ASCVD risk calculator. Most pharmacists used sex assigned at birth for transfeminine (85.9%) and transmasculine (85.9%) patients not on hormone therapy. However, approaches varied for those on long-term hormone therapy, with 29.0–32.6% using gender identity, 26.1–29.0% using a combination, and the remainder using sex assigned at birth. Confidence in these calculations was low, and 90.2% had no formal training in transgender patient care. Conclusions Pharmacists predominantly rely on sex assigned at birth for clinical calculations, especially in those not receiving hormone therapy. However, no consensus exists for patients on long-term hormone therapy, leading to inconsistent practices. The findings highlight a need for standardized guidelines and educational interventions to improve confidence and ensure equitable care for transgender and gender-diverse patients.

An Investigation Into Factors That Affect Generosity

Elexis Stouffer

It appears that generosity is heavily impacted by the person’s personality traits. A randomized study with 204 participants recruited through Prolific.com evaluated if mood and personality had an impact on one's likelihood to donate and overall generosity. Additionally, it was studied if the health or gender of an individual would impact generosity and likelihood to donate. Participants were assigned one of four conditions using an Instagram post. The conditions were seeing an injured male, seeing an injured female, seeing a healthy male, or seeing a healthy female. Prior to viewing one of the conditions, participants were asked to answer a series of demographics questions, to complete the Brief Mood Introspection Scale, and to fill out a Ten Item Personality Measure. Following viewing the images, the participants were asked to redo the Brief Mood Introspection Scale and answer two questions about generosity. Comparisons between conditions provide insights that all Big 5 Personality Traits have an impact on one’s likelihood to donate, as well as an overall increase in positive affect.

The Science Behind Music: A Literature Review on Keeping Music in Elementary School Education

Nicole Stroh

Music should stand as a general education course, an arts elective, or an after-school program opportunity in US elementary schools. Based on research reviews in adolescent brain development and the neuropsychological effects of music on the brain, music engagement and education effectively contributes to physiological growth in the brain, and therefore contributes to cognitive function, thus increasing rates of academic achievement. Equally valuable with all general education subjects as well as physical education, music strengthens neuroplasticity, which increases children’s overall academic comprehension. There are two components to this project: the effect of music on the brain, and how the effect of music on the brain correlates to academic performance in adolescence. The purpose of this review is to conclude how the brain reacts to music and sound, specifically in relation to adolescent development, and theorize how these conclusions in musical interaction support academic development and achievement. Neuroplasticity correlates to evoking imagination, improvement of memory function, increasing attention span, behavioral synchrony and prosocial behavior, and musical effects can be traced back to neonatal development. This research is particularly important for schools that lack such enrichment programs, to support evidence in bringing music classes back into curricula, and for those in debate on ridding music classes, to keep them. This literature review encourages the further observation of music and the brain, and how these concepts apply to supporting music programs in elementary school education.

Zelda AR

Ethan Swope

The Legend of Zelda series is widely known mostly for the video games but there are also books that follow the main character Link as he sets out on adventures to save the kingdom of Hyrule. Zelda AR is an augmented reality software used to enhance the enjoyment of the first chapter of Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. The application uses image tracking technology to superimpose virtual objects, animations, and sound effects as if the pages of the book are coming to life. This adds to the immersive nature of the book and complements it with a technology that increases engagement.

Speaking Against Apartheid: How U.S. Presidential Rhetoric About the South African Apartheid Changed Over Time

Liberty Tennyson

This study investigates the language used by U.S. presidential administrations between 1948 and 1994 to describe the Apartheid in South Africa, and the goal is to explore how rhetoric fluctuated over time and look at specific themes throughout. The U.S. government played an integral role in the framing of the apartheid issue, and there were many different strategies behind it. Each administration approached the conflict differently, which was reflected in the way they spoke about the apartheid and how it was mentioned. By analyzing presidential speeches from Truman to Clinton using databases like the American Presidency Project, this research aims to trace changes in rhetoric over time, expecting to find an increasing trend of assertive, or direct, statements against apartheid. A mixed-methods approach will be used to analyze the change in language over time and the potential strategies used. The study seeks to show how political rhetoric around one conflict can develop and span across different administrations. This analysis may serve as a valuable tool for understanding how modern administrations address global issues and how the rhetoric can change through the duration of a global issue.

Vaping and Cognition

Regan Tucker

Prior research on e-cigarettes and cognition is mixed. Some studies suggest that e-cigarettes may improve cognition, whereas other studies suggest impairment. The current study aims to investigate relationships between long-term e-cigarette use and cognition in college-aged subjects (18-24). A minimum of 100 participants will be recruited via an online survey, with an estimated sample size of approximately 150 to allow for data cleansing and statistical analysis. Participants will be categorized into long-term e-cigarette users (15+ weeks) and non-users based on self-reported usage patterns. Data collection will occur through Qualtrics, with an E-Cigarette Use Questionnaire that gathers demographic information and detailed usage history, including frequency, duration, nicotine concentration, and time since last use. Cognitive performance will then be assessed using two standardized neuropsychological instruments: the NIH Toolbox Pattern Comparison Speed Test, which evaluates processing speed and reaction time, and the Reading Span Task (RST), which measures working memory capacity. The findings from this study aim to broaden the research on e-cigarette use and its potential links to mental health in young adults.

Deconstructing the Royal Fashion of 17th Century Spain

Taylor Vanaman

Understanding historical fashion is an important element in costume design, but it reaches much further than that. Fashion and art provide insight into history and the people who wore the clothing. The fashions in Spain during the 17th century deviated from the popular fashions throughout Europe. The purpose of this project is to understand why Spain maintained their own style and the practicalities of constructing popular fashions. The female fashions of the Spanish Royal Court in the 17th century are analyzed through paintings by Diego Valezquez and various other artists, as well as through their political purpose, and the tailors and methods used to create them. In this presentation I will explain the significance and construction of garments so that we can better understand their importance and shed light on the artistry of those who made them. I will demonstrate how historic methods can be used in understanding the execution of building historically appropriate garments and promote the use of accurate vocabulary in analyzing period garments.

Do Couples who Do Together, Stay Together?

Matthew Wadler, Diana Bozzay, Lola Oickle, Delaney Donelson

Although there is evidence that supports greater satisfaction within relationships when couples perform co-occupations together, gaps in the literature include the simultaneous contribution of couples to household management tasks, and what type of co-occupation creates greater satisfaction in the relationship, leisure or mundane tasks. The purpose of this study was to investigate the attitudes, perceptions, and beliefs of couples performing occupations together, and the impact on their relationship satisfaction. Our study aimed to address the gaps in the literature to solidify the potential importance of co-occupation for couple satisfaction. A quantitative survey design was utilized to investigate the experiences of monogamous couples and their satisfaction within their relationship based on participation in co-occupations. Independent T-Tests were conducted to compare leisure participation and conflict outcomes in couples, investigate relationship satisfaction with Family and Home Maintenance activities, and compare marital status and satisfaction with activity participation. Marital status, leisure and family co-occupations yielded significant correlation with relationship satisfaction and conflict contributions within relationships. Exploring the effects of co-occupations with romantic partners may provide valuable insights into a client’s performance patterns and skills during chosen activities.

Violence Against Women in Film and the Implications of Desensitization

Katherine Weinhold

Many famous films perpetuate a disproportionate amount of violence against women through physical or sexual abuse. This abuse is rarely shown in a way that sheds light on the issue in an educational or sensitive manner. Instead, it is included to propel storylines of male characters or add drama/shock value to the overarching story. When movies are written in this manner, they desensitize viewers to the violence and can retraumatize survivors. This study begins with establishing the severity of this issue by proving its prevalence and ends with a research proposal to determine the implications of desensitization. In 2022, I conducted a study that sorted the Oscar winners for best picture of each year and the top-grossing films of each year into categories based on their levels of glorifying violence against women. To showcase the continued, if not increased, relevance of this issue, the project I propose will involve a redesign of an experiment conducted by Mullin and Linz D. (1995) that linked exposure to sexually violent films with decreased sympathy for victims. My goal for this research and my SURE presentation is to illustrate how preventing violence against women may be influenced by what we accept and consume from film.

The Ethical Boundaries of Technology-Driven Employee Monitoring in Modern Workplaces

Faria Zafar

As technology-driven employee monitoring (EPM) becomes increasingly prevalent in modern workplaces, the ethical boundaries surrounding privacy and surveillance are becoming more critical, particularly with the rise of remote work. Remote and in-office setups now utilize a variety of monitoring tools, such as screen recording software, location tracking, and sentiment analysis, to evaluate employee performance and productivity. However, this surge in monitoring has raised concerns about employee privacy, often leading to negative reactions from workers who fear invasion of privacy or lack of transparency. Drawing from existing research, this study examines the ethical implications of EPM, focusing on the balance between enhancing productivity and respecting privacy. Key factors for ethical EPM implementation include ensuring legal compliance, promoting transparency in monitoring policies, involving employees in policy creation, and minimizing the invasiveness of monitoring tools. Best practices, such as anonymizing collected data, limiting data exposure, and using software solutions that respect employee privacy, are essential for creating a trust-based workplace. This research also emphasizes the importance of using EPM for employee development rather than punitive measures, aligning monitoring with learning and growth objectives. By integrating these ethical guidelines and tools, organizations can effectively navigate the challenges of employee monitoring, fostering both accountability and a supportive work environment.