Oral Presentations
Room 316 – Oral Session 1A
–
Metformin's effects on the expression of genes linked to metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer
HIEE: Research
Metformin's effects on the expression of genes linked to metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer
In recent years, metformin's use as an anti-cancer agent has been a topic of intense investigation. The anti-hyperglycemic drug has been shown to directly induce apoptosis of breast cancer cells, decrease their production of some pro-angiogenic factors, and reduce their ability to produce lung metastases in immunodeficient mice (Orecchioni, et al., 2015). Although these results suggest that metformin might provide some clinical benefit, recent human studies in which breast cancer patients were treated with the drug suggest that disease-free survival is not improved (Goodwin, et al., 2022). To explore why this might be the case, we investigated the effect of metformin treatment on the expression of several genes related to metastasis, including those associated with inflammation and extracellular matrix assembly and degradation, in MDA-MB-436 triple-negative breast cancer cells using RT-qPCR. Our results support that, despite a reported mTOR-mediated decrease in global protein synthesis (Dowling, et al., 2007), metformin treatment does not significantly decrease expression of several pro-metastatic genes. The ability of triple-negative breast cancer cells to produce pro-metastatic proteins even in the presence of metformin may explain the absence of an observable clinical benefit in metformin-treated breast cancer patients.
–
Understanding Relationships: Does attachment style predict how people story interpersonal experiences
HIEE: Research
Understanding Relationships: Does attachment style predict how people story interpersonal experiences
Narrative Identity is a person's internalized and evolving life story, integrating the reconstructed past and imagined future to provide life with a sense of unity and purpose (McAdams & McLean, 2013). Narrative themes of communion center a narrative around connection, intimacy, and belonging (McAdams, 1993). Communion themes predict psychological well being. Research also shows that individuals with secure attachment styles are more likely to use “we” than “I” pronouns when retelling love life narratives (Dunlop, 2020). However, narrative research on attachment style and well-being has many gaps. We address these gaps by examining themes of communion and affective tone in turning point narratives (important autobiographical experiences that are salient for identity and one's sense of unity and purpose). Narratives were collected from emerging adults in different nations (U.S. and U.K.), who also completed measures of attachment style. Cross-cultural studies are rare and needed in narrative identity work. We are coding narratives for type of turning point and themes of communion and affective tone. We anticipate that secure attachment will be correlated with more positive affective tone and themes of communion. We explore whether this is true in people from both nations.
–
Advocating local volunteer work for WSU students
HIEE: Community Engagement
Advocating local volunteer work for WSU students
Give Me A Chance Inc. is a non-profit organization that serves the poverty-line residents of South Ogden. Each summer, they host a season-long camp where at-risk youth are enriched and taken care of while their mothers work uninhibited. Staffing this and other events is sometimes inconsistent. Having a background in advertising for youth-based non-profits, I have created print and digital advertisements for each volunteer position in this year’s camp. Additionally, I have made advertisements for other outlets of Give Me A Chance Inc., such as their dress outlet and art classes. Having professional-quality posts on Weber State campus, in local public institutions and on the organization’s Facebook page will further establish their public awareness to the event. This awareness leads to credibility to both the events and the organization as a whole, garnering future interaction and donations. The charity will be better able to serve those in need, and give people in the community a chance to make a difference. A variety of skills can be brought together under the right voice. Word of mouth spurned by the ads will also bring in the poverty-line individuals which the program hopes to benefit. This project has improved my visual communication through continued use of Canva to make the posts. I have also improved my personal and digital communication through regular messaging with Give Me A Chance on their desired vision, and networking with various representatives at WSU to best place my adverts. The world is intricate and huge, even on the local level. I’ve learned that if I want others to see my message to a good cause, I cannot do it through my own means. It takes networking with the right people to open platforms where my message can be seen. In future endeavors, I know that to communicate with the masses, I must first communicate with the select few who can aid me in that.
–
Minority ethnic centrality, affirmation, and attitudes toward mental health care
HIEE: Research
Minority ethnic centrality, affirmation, and attitudes toward mental health care
In recent years, there have been dramatic improvements in our ability to seek, utilize, and receive mental health care. Despite these improvements, research has shown that many individuals, especially those belonging to ethnic minority communities still experience difficulty seeking mental health treatment. Factors such as racial discrimination in the health care system, along with associated stigma within their communities surrounding mental health care, establish barriers in pursuing treatment for those who desire the help. The current study seeks to investigate the relationship between ethnic centrality and affirmation (two aspects of ethnic identity), and mental health. Namely, we assess relationships between perceptions toward mental health and ethnic identity, as well as attitudes toward seeking mental health treatment and about mental health in general. We hypothesize that participants who have strong ethnic centrality and affirmation will be more willing and less ashamed to seek mental health treatment, as well as having a less stigmatized view of mental health care.
Room 321 – Oral Session 1B
–
Eliminating urine stream splatter through fluid dynamics
HIEE: Research
Eliminating urine stream splatter through fluid dynamics
Using a public urinal can be a disgusting experience for men, as traditional urinals allow urine to splatter the floor, shoes, and even clothing. This presentation summarizes the experimental validation of a urinal designed to essentially eliminate unwanted splash back. Validation began with creating an experimental apparatus designed to accurately mimic the volumetric flow characteristics of an average male urine stream. Modern manufacturing equipment was used to prototype our unique urinal design at a relatively low cost. Dyed water was projected onto the urinal prototype and the escaped satellite droplets were absorbed by a large poster paper placed at the urinal base. Imaging software was used to test the splatter characteristics of the new urinal design against traditional urinals. Collected data confirm that the new design significantly reduces unwanted splash back.
–
Finding our friends
HIEE: Research
Finding our friends
Psychological and sociological research conducted centering around the relationship between perceived social support, online belonging, and exchanges of social capital online has become more prevalent as the use of social media continues to do so as well. This correlational study is interested in evaluating the interaction of social media usage (both type and usage), online social support (both given and received), and wellbeing. It was hypothesized that: (1) the amount of perceived social support given online will be positively associated with the amount of perceived social support received online; (2) the greater indicated levels of anxiety and depression will be positively associated with the amount of social support given; (3) the greater social support received online will be negatively associated with indicated levels of anxiety and depression; (4) underrepresented, stigmatized, and/or minority individuals within Utah are more likely to seek and receive social support online than face to face. These hypotheses will be tested through correlational and regressional analysis. Currently, 100 participants have completed the survey. Data collection will be completed soon, and data analysis will be completed well before the symposium. These findings will provide precedent and perspective for future research to be conducted in this area.
–
The eradication of the lay midwife and its long-term effects on birth outcomes today
HIEE: Community Engagement
The eradication of the lay midwife and its long-term effects on birth outcomes today
In contrast to other developed nations, giving birth in the United States is unusually deadly, particularly for Black mothers and their children. One of the foremost reasons for the high mortality of Black mother was the eradication of the African American lay midwife in the early 20th century. This eradication was a concerted effort by the established medical community to discredit and discard birth attendants who they viewed as racially inferior under the guise of safety and progress. Lay midwives were blamed for high maternal and infant mortality rates, even though their mortality and morbidity rates were generally lower than those of obstetricians and physicians. The effects of this eradication can be seen today, as the United States still has the highest maternal and infant mortality and morbidity rates of any developed nation. Consequently, the United States also has the lowest usage of nurse-midwives of any of these countries. The low percentage of nurse-midwives in the United States is a direct result of the eradication of their predecessor the lay midwife. Thus, the enduring problem of maternal mortality in the United States is at least partially caused by the eradication of the lay midwife.
Room 312 – Oral Session 1C
–
Reasons for majoring in psychology and the role that academic experiences and a sense of belonging
HIEE: Research
Reasons for majoring in psychology and the role that academic experiences and a sense of belonging
This study examines the perceptions of graduating psychological science majors at Weber State University. We are examining these students' motivations for majoring in psychological science and the impact mentorship, belonging, and high-impact educational experiences had on their scholastic experiences. Surveys provided to students as a part of their capstone course asked them to answer both qualitative and quantitative questions about their demographics, positive and negative experiences, and their plans for the future. We collected and analyzed partial data for this study; additional data is being collected, and the results will be available on the day of the symposium. We hypothesize that most students elect to major in psychology based on altruistic intentions/attitudes (helping people), the fear of other “more difficult” majors, and the advice of a mentor. Additionally, we hypothesize that the majority of students are satisfied with their decision to major in the psychological sciences. Furthermore, we hypothesize that mentorship, belonging, and high-impact educational experiences are positively correlated with GPA and reports of positive experiences. The limited research into this topic and the post-covid-19 era decline in post-secondary educational attendance make this research an essential component to augment efforts that enhance the overall academic infrastructure and improve students' experiences.
–
Political diasporas: Instrumental pieces of US foreign policy and society
HIEE: Research
Political diasporas: Instrumental pieces of US foreign policy and society
This study will define political diasporas and examine when, where, why, and how diasporas influence foreign policy as both state and non-state actors in the United States. Diasporic theory and the political assimilation or multi-culturalism of a diasporic group will guide my analysis in explaining political activism, revolutionary influence, and movements of self-determination towards a home country. This will be examined through the analysis of the Greek and Iranian experiences in the United States with interests in their home country. To further the conceptualization of this argument, this study will also examine and conclude the increasing role of digital globalized communication networks diasporas have, the balancing power underrepresented ethnic lobbies can and should have, and the reality of an ever-growing global movement of people through push factors of conflict, economic opportunity, and climate.
–
Cognitive Dissonance & User Engagement with Belief-Challenging Content
HIEE: Research
Cognitive Dissonance & User Engagement with Belief-Challenging Content
Misinformation regarding controversial scientific phenomena has flourished in recent years due, in part, to the prevalence of social networking sites. The proliferation and subsequent belief in misinformation can polarize the public, which in the case of the COVID-19 pandemic, can have dire consequences that include endangering human lives. Because social media allows users to engage in selective exposure to information that only conforms to prior beliefs, this study examined engagement with online misinformation regarding the COVID-19 vaccine through the lens of cognitive dissonance theory. A quantitative survey was deployed via convenience snowball sampling and received 430 responses. Results indicate Republicans are more likely to believe in vaccine misinformation than Democrats, but users do not engage with belief-challenging online content any more or less than general content, regardless of political party affiliation or any other demographic. However, users are likely to engage in selective exposure behaviors, thus avoiding dissonance long-term, by blocking, hiding, muting, or unfollowing the belief-challenging content. Political party affiliation and age is associated with a user's likelihood to block. This study sheds theoretical light on social media behavior in regards to COVID vaccine misinformation and highlights the need for media literacy education that focuses on the benefits of diversity.
–
NYC Alternate Breaks Trip
HIEE: Community Engagement
NYC Alternate Breaks Trip
1. For this project our focus was on public health in Atlanta, GA. The first organization we worked with was Cool Girls. Their focus is on teaching young at risk girls different aspects of life. This could range from learning about their bodies and individual health, to learning new hobbies/skills and looking into potential colleges for higher education. We worked with two elementary schools while we were there. The first school focused on photography and opening the door to new potential careers the girls might not have ever thought about. The second school focused on physical health and we were able to have a fitness day through the use of different games. The second organization was Friends of Disabled Adults and Children. This organization focuses on providing medical equipment to the community for free. They rely on grants and donations to obtain used medical equipment and community members just have to pay a $25 membership fee to join. 2. Working with the girls allows them to have a wider selection of life choices they may have not been exposed to before. This opportunity allowed us to see how different these children live versus children in our own neighborhoods. Even just small opportunities like using a digital camera can open the door for them to explore new things. Watching the girls ask questions on where to get cameras and the different things they can do with them really showcased how important this program is to them. Working with FODAC really expanded my views on how to help the community. They provide a place where individuals who are at their most vulnerable state have access to equipment that gives them a better quality of life. Walkers and wheelchairs are key in some individuals' lives and allow them to interact with society even after they experience life altering illness or accidents. 3. Working with FODAC helped me understand the importance of community engagement. I had previously been in an internship with Weber County working to address intergenerational poverty. We were starting up a new program and ran into a lot of issues we struggled to work past. I was able to speak with our project partner David C. to get a better view of how to move past our shortcomings. He provided insight and solutions to problems we had because FODAC has had to work through those same issues. He emphasized how the program is so well run that other state legislators and even Goodwill have come to them to see their process of functioning. This allowed me to see where I was falling short and gave me the confidence to reach out to my old mentor and continue building on our previous work even though I am no longer an intern with her. This taught me how to push through in a professional setting and showed the importance of networking and staying determined.
Room 316 – Spotlight High Impact Session
–
What is antibiotic resistance and why is it prevalent in our Utah environments?
HIEE: Research
What is antibiotic resistance and why is it prevalent in our Utah environments?
We currently live in an era where antibiotics are not only extremely effective in getting rid of any unwanted bacterial infection, but are also abundant and easily accessible. However, there have been rising concerns about whether they are too accessible or effective, and the general public has been left ignorant of this issue. Research has shown that we have seen an increase in antibiotic resistance in various environments, soils, and waters due to an overuse and misuse of antibiotics in the medical and agricultural industries. Antibiotic resistance is when a bacterium develops a gene that allows it to no longer be killed or affected by the antibiotic medication. Due to bacterial methods of horizontal gene transfer they are able to share this gene via transformation, transduction, and conjugation. The goal of this oral presentation is to educate the public how bacteria shares this resistant gene and the current scientific understanding of antibiotic resistance in the environment. Through this thorough study, I have discovered that antibiotic resistance has been around since before we entered our “antibiotic era” and that scientists are trying to understand this history of antibiotic resistance to better predict our future.
–
How community engagement can address poverty
HIEE: Community Engagement
How community engagement can address poverty
1. For this project our focus was on public health in Atlanta, GA. The first organization we worked with was Cool Girls. Their focus is on teaching young at risk girls different aspects of life. This could range from learning about their bodies and individual health, to learning new hobbies/skills and looking into potential colleges for higher education. We worked with two elementary schools while we were there. The first school focused on photography and opening the door to new potential careers the girls might not have ever thought about. The second school focused on physical health and we were able to have a fitness day through the use of different games. The second organization was Friends of Disabled Adults and Children. This organization focuses on providing medical equipment to the community for free. They rely on grants and donations to obtain used medical equipment and community members just have to pay a $25 membership fee to join. 2. Working with the girls allows them to have a wider selection of life choices they may have not been exposed to before. This opportunity allowed us to see how different these children live versus children in our own neighborhoods. Even just small opportunities like using a digital camera can open the door for them to explore new things. Watching the girls ask questions on where to get cameras and the different things they can do with them really showcased how important this program is to them. Working with FODAC really expanded my views on how to help the community. They provide a place where individuals who are at their most vulnerable state have access to equipment that gives them a better quality of life. Walkers and wheelchairs are key in some individuals' lives and allow them to interact with society even after they experience life altering illness or accidents. 3. Working with FODAC helped me understand the importance of community engagement. I had previously been in an internship with Weber County working to address intergenerational poverty. We were starting up a new program and ran into a lot of issues we struggled to work past. I was able to speak with our project partner David C. to get a better view of how to move past our shortcomings. He provided insight and solutions to problems we had because FODAC has had to work through those same issues. He emphasized how the program is so well run that other state legislators and even Goodwill have come to them to see their process of functioning. This allowed me to see where I was falling short and gave me the confidence to reach out to my old mentor and continue building on our previous work even though I am no longer an intern with her. This taught me how to push through in a professional setting and showed the importance of networking and staying determined.
–
Voluntarily choosing plastic: The critical role of synaptic plasticity in explaining the positive relationship between physical activity and learning and memory in adolescents
HIEE: Interdisciplinary/Research
Voluntarily choosing plastic: The critical role of synaptic plasticity in explaining the positive relationship between physical activity and learning and memory in adolescents
This project focuses on the effects of voluntary, chronic, aerobic physical activity (VCA-PA) on learning and memory through synaptic plasticity in adolescents. This is viewed through a mediating model. The independent variable is VCA-PA, the dependent variable is learning and memory, and it is hypothesized that the mediating variable is synaptic plasticity. There is a well-established relationship between the independent and dependent variables. However, the mechanisms in which this relationship functions are less well known—suggesting a mediating variable. This project hypothesizes that synaptic plasticity mediates this relationship. In this project each relationship will be explored through literature review. Then a brief description of the relationship between synaptic plasticity and learning and memory, which will be explored through discussion of my primary undergraduate research. This research utilized a zebrafish model of human autism to understand the mechanisms of cell death (apoptosis) in the developing zebrafish eye. Apoptosis is a mechanism under the umbrella of synaptic plasticity. By studying apoptosis, there is a fundamental level of understanding for the mechanisms of synaptic plasticity that lead to learning and memory. Lastly, enacting this relationship in educational settings requires a level of specific leadership skills. Having an understanding of the social psychological framework in which these principles are applied, physical educators and coaches can have the opportunity to lead individuals to self-development, discovery and intrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation is the principle in which will enable VCA-PA to function, and will positively affect learning and memory.
–
Narratives and numbers
HIEE: Honors