Oral Presentations: Two

Are the principles of evidence-based fitness, as promoted by many health influencers on the internet, founded on good epistemology? In this presentation, I argue they are not, and advocate for a pluralistic approach.

There has been a surge of content online targeting those who want to take a “work smarter, not harder” approach to optimization of one’s fitness (health, physique or athleticism). Many believe that such optimization is best done (perhaps only possible) with a scientific basis. Without a basis in scientific evidence, one is susceptible to pseudoscience and pure conjecture. However, one must acknowledge that the human body is also complex and poorly understood; therefore, the most robust scientific evidence is that created by simple randomized control trials. These trials bypass theoretical explanations (the underlying biochemistry) by studying the effects of an intervention on a sample of participants, thereby directly demonstrating the efficacy of different protocols.

This approach is epistemologically flawed. Even under ideal conditions, the results of a randomized controlled trial may not be externally valid. In the absence of theory, one can neither infer the validity of the results in their case nor build the framework necessary to optimize/systematize their own health habits. This is the case because of the very complexity that leads us to adopt such methods.

Often, randomized controlled trials are placed atop a hierarchy of evidence. I do not replace it with theory; rather, I reject the hierarchy altogether and advocate a pluralistic approach that holds no method inherently more grounded than any other.

This is not meant to be a complete argument against the culture of fitness optimization. I do not, for example, examine it from an ethical viewpoint. I only intend to expose a flaw (which is arguably quite insignificant) in the philosophical foundations thereof.

Introduction: Current chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies effectively treat B cell malignancies but cause immunosuppression through the elimination of protective B cell populations as well as the pathogenic B cells. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), a B-cell-mediated autoimmune disease causing thrombosis and recurrent miscarriages, typically requires indefinite anticoagulation treatment with no cure. Chimeric autoantibody receptor (CAAR) T cells represent a more precise immunotherapy approach by redirecting T cells to target only autoreactive B cells expressing disease-causing antibodies while preserving the healthy B cell population.

Methods: CAAR T cells use the autoantigen as the binding domain of a standard CAR T cell to act as bait for autoreactive BCRs on B cells. In APS, B cells produce antibodies directed against the clotting factor β2-glycoprotein I (β2GP1), which binds to phospholipids on cells. Using patient-derived epitopes, we engineered two distinct autoreactive B cell populations and two distinct β2GP1-expressing CAAR T cells that attract and eliminate target B cells.

Results: One of the β2GP1 CAAR T cell lines achieved complete depletion of autoreactive B cells without exhibiting cytotoxicity against healthy B cells. A second β2GP1 CAAR design killed significantly more disease-causing B cells than healthy B cells (p-value < 0.0001) but did not successfully eliminate the autoreactive population. While this project continues forward, these results demonstrate that CAAR T cell targeting of β2GP1-specific B cells can achieve selective depletion in APS, potentially offering a disease-modifying therapy that preserves protective immunity.

Positive youth development (PYD) literature highlights that social environments have the potential to elicit positive and healthy development in youth (Holt et al., 2016; Côté et al., 2007). In youth sport settings, healthy development is characterized by effort, a desire to continue participating, having fun, and thriving. Finding strategies to maximize those PYD outcomes is critical to sustaining and growing youth sport engagement. A caring and task-involving climate (CTIC) emphasizes mutual kindness and respect, effort and involvement, mistakes as a part of the learning process, the importance of every athlete's role, and cooperation among teammates (Fry et al., 2020). An ego-involving climate (EIC) encourages winning and competition above all else, which leads to unmotivated youth athletes (Fry et al., 2020). This study explored the association between a caring and task-involving climate (CTIC) and an ego-involving climate (EIC) and Positive Youth Development (PYD) outcomes among young skaters enrolled in the Learn to Skate (LTS) program at the Salt Lake City Sports Complex (SLCSC). We hypothesized that perceptions of a CTIC instructional climate would be positively related to PYD outcomes. It was further hypothesized that perceptions of an EIC would be negatively associated with PYD outcomes in young ice skaters. Participants eligible for this study were participants in the LTS program, ranging in age from 7 to 17. Before the LTS session started, the LTS instructors at the SLCSC were led in a CTIC training that was created and led by the principal investigator. Youth skaters then participated in the six-week LTS program. Those who assented after parental permission completed a thirty-five-question survey about their perceptions of their coaching climate and PYD outcomes of thriving, enjoyment, effort, and intention to continue skating. Thirty-six young skaters participated. Twenty were males and sixteen were females. The youngest participant was seven and the oldest was fourteen. The average age of the participants was 8.8. Of the thirty-six participants, 69.4% of the participants were White, 11.1% were Hispanic or Latino, 11.1% were multiethnic, and 5.56% were Asian. Data collection was completed on November 4th. Data analysis (descriptive statistics, correlations, and regression) is ongoing and will be provided at the conference.

Early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is critical because it allows children to access therapies and interventions during key developmental periods. However, females with autism are often missed or diagnosed later than males. This can lead to increased anxiety, distress, and delayed support. While previous research has shown that autism presents differently in males and females, our literature review found no studies examining whether early screening tools themselves detect males and females equally. This is the first study to evaluate sex equity in early autism screening, highlighting an important gap in both research and practice. The Parent’s Observation of Social Interaction (POSI) is a short parent-completed questionnaire used at 18- and 24-month pediatric visits. Unlike many traditional screeners that require yes/no answers, the POSI allows parents to indicate how often behaviors occur. We analyzed data from 6,669 children screened in Utah between 2018 and 2022, with autism diagnoses confirmed from medical records in 2024 (ages 3.6–9 years). We compared the POSI’s original scoring with a version simplified to yes/no responses, looked at differences between males and females, and compared cohort prevalence with statewide data. When the POSI was simplified to yes/no responses, it correctly identified only about 30% of children with autism. Using the original graded responses, sensitivity increased to 65–70%, showing that more children were correctly identified. The male-to-female ratio among diagnosed children was 2.1:1, narrower than Utah’s usual 3–4:1 ratio, indicating a more balanced detection of females and males. At 18 months, 27% of males and 22% of females screened positive. Cohort prevalence also matched statewide estimates for 8-year-olds, suggesting that children are being identified earlier than with traditional tools. These findings show that allowing parents to report behaviors more precisely can improve both the accuracy and fairness of autism screening. The POSI identifies more autistic females without reducing accuracy for males, demonstrating that screening design can directly influence sex equity. Early, more equitable detection helps ensure that all children, regardless of sex, can access interventions that improve developmental outcomes.

DelphIC Anima revolutionizes personal health management by integrating wearable technology with an interactive app to monitor physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Unlike typical smartwatches, DelphIC Anima’s wearable device tracks not only heart rate, sleep quality, and physical activity but also emotional health indicators like mood and stress. Advanced biosensors collect this data, which is analyzed via machine learning in the companion app to provide actionable, personalized feedback.

A standout feature is the virtual endangered animal, whose health reflects the user’s well-being. Declines in the user’s physical or emotional health visibly affect the animal seen on the app, offering a tangible and emotionally engaging reason to improve one’s health. This personal connection taps into the natural empathy people feel for animals, creating a mutual bond that increases motivation for wellness. With the additional motivator of the animal companion being an endangered species, it not only helps raise awareness for endangered animals, but also makes for a unique bond between the user and animal companion. Thus, transforming health tracking into an engaging and emotionally rewarding experience, encouraging users to prioritize self-care.

The app employs Python and advanced algorithms to process data in real time, ensuring tailored insights that adapt to each user’s needs. Secure data handling safeguards user privacy, while intuitive feedback promotes sustainable behavioral changes.

DelphIC Anima seamlessly combines hardware and software for an enhanced user experience. The wearable’s sensors and signal-processing algorithms extract meaningful insights from complex biological data, visualized in the app. This holistic system tracks both physical and emotional health, fostering long-term improvements through technology-driven, empathetic motivation.

By blending innovative biosensors, machine learning, and psychological incentives, DelphIC Anima offers a unique, comprehensive tool for achieving healthier lifestyles: physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Agricultural practices on both a large and small scale are ever evolving in efficiency. A major challenge of agriculture is to increase food production without damaging the environment. As we advance, it is crucial to develop methods that not only optimize plant growth and health, but that prioritize minimizing impact on the environment and human health. Neem oil is a promising alternative to non-organic pesticides however, there are limitations to these organic pesticides. Short shelf life, photosensitive properties, and issues with residue make it difficult to use Neem on a large scale. By assessing insecticidal properties of additional essential oils from other plants, the efficacy of these compounds proved to be more effective than neem oil as an insecticide. This study aims to increase the knowledge we have on the efficacy of a mixture of essential oils as an organic pesticide as well as its effects on the growth of plants. The methods for this study have consisted of a number of experiments in a partnership with Young Living Essential Oils in which trials took place to collect data on insect pest mortality rate using different concentrations of an essential oil-based formula. Trials were conducted on live plants and in isolated chambers in which the model organisms were fed a mixture containing varying concentrations of the formula. Observations were made on plant health and success throughout the trials and yielded promising results, showing potential for the essential oil-based pesticide to outperform neem oil as a pesticide.

The ventral tegmental area (VTA) is an essential part of the reward system that under maladaptive conditions facilitates drug seeking and addiction behaviors. Synaptic plasticity, underlying normal reward learning and memory, is altered by drugs of abuse. Our research extends the understanding of synaptic plasticity to the inhibitory networks . We previously further examined iLTP and identified a novel form of iLTD at GABAergic inputs to VTA GABA synapses. While iLTD is GABAB receptor-dependent, the iLTP presented a more complex picture, being only partially contingent upon N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor (NMDAR) involvement. This partial dependency hints at the existence of additional mechanisms potentially driving the induction of iLTP that we explore in this study. Here we determined that iLTP is not cholecystokinin (CCK)-dependent (n value and stats). In addition, though the nitric oxide (NO) pathway can change GABA transmission, it is not necessary for iLTP induction. Since VTA GABA neurons receive inhibitory input from both inside and outside the VTA, we hypothesize that plasticity type could be due to unique GABAergic input sources. To test this hypothesis, we optogenetically drove three different GABAergic inputs to the VTA, the Lateral Hypothalamus (LH), the rostromedial tegmental nucleus (RMTg) and VTA interneurons. Activation of GABAergic LH and RMTg terminals induces iLTP in response to an optical 5Hz stimulus (iLTP, LH to VTA: P<0.0001 compared to baseline, ANOVA, n=14; iLTP, RMTg to VTA: p<0.0001 compared to baseline, ANOVA, n=6), while activation of the VTA interneurons produces iLTD with the same stimulus (iLTD, VTA to VTA, P<0.0001 compared to baseline, ANOVA, n=12). Additionally, we observed that both acute and chronic cocaine exposure prevented the occurrence of iLTD (n value and stats). Our study provides novel insights into the mechanisms of synaptic plasticity within the VTA, emphasizing the role of GABAergic neurons in the brain's response to drugs of abuse.

This work will focus on better understanding host-microbe interactions, specifically how animal microbiomes influence the fitness of their hosts in the wild, including at colder temperatures. To examine these relationships between animal microbiomes and their hosts, our work will focus on how symbiotic bacteria affect the activity and life history of Drosophila melanogaster at low temperatures. We have identified a bacterial strain Acetobacter species DmW_125 (As) that uniquely produces heat when grown on a specific diet, but the same effect is not observed when this or other strains are reared under different growth conditions or on different media, including standard laboratory media. Our data also suggest that As may affect fly mortality rate and activity at lower temperatures in ways that other strains of bacteria do not. To examine the effect of these microbes in D. melanogaster, we will utilize a new Drosophila Video Tracking (DVT) software to analyze fly locomotion. We will also test how As affects fly life history by measuring the flies' recovery from chill coma in order to analyze the resilience of flies inoculated with these two microbes at colder temperatures. Together, these findings will enhance our understanding of species-specific influences of the microbiota on their host, including identifying correlations between microbial effect on dietary temperatures and traits that are important for activity at low temperatures.

“Loss-of-function” mutations in voltage-gated sodium ion channels (NaV1.4) are linked to neonatal skeletal muscle weakness in both humans and snakes. Yet both humans and snakes recover muscle function as they develop. These results suggest that there is a compensation mechanism for reduced channel activity in skeletal muscle cells. Congenital myopathies (CM) in human infants are characterized by neonatal hypotonia and muscle weakness. These symptoms are linked to “loss-of-function” mutations in the SCN4A gene that encodes sodium channels expressed in skeletal muscle (hNaV1.4). Mutations linked to CMs shift the voltage-dependence of activation in hNaV1.4 to more depolarized voltages and reduce electrical activity in skeletal muscle fibers. Some populations of garter snakes have evolved resistance to the neurotoxin tetrodotoxin found in their tetrodotoxic prey, rough-skinned newts. These snakes have mutations in tsNaV1.4 that cause a depolarized shift in activation and, as neonates, slower crawl speeds. Both humans and snakes that express channels with “loss-of-function” mutations recover muscle strength suggesting that there is a compensation mechanism for changes in sodium channel activity. To test this possibility, we modified the Cannon (1993) mathematical model of skeletal muscle cell function to simulate the “loss-of-function” properties of snake and human channels. We found a link between depolarized shifts in the voltage-dependence of activation and reduced muscle cell activity in both human and snake models. Shifts in the voltage-dependance of activation altered the threshold for action potentials (APs) and reduced the electrical activity of model cells. We also tested whether increases in hNaV1.4 expression that occur during development could explain muscle strength recovery in human infants with CMs. We found that increasing the conductance of sodium currents (simulating increased expression) increased the probability that both snake and human model cells fired APs at the rapid rates required for skeletal muscle tetanus.

The CRISPR-Cas9 system is among the most widely used gene editing tools in both research and gene therapy. This technique relies on a guide RNA sequence to direct precise DNA cleavage. However, guide RNA molecules can bind incorrectly or fail to bind entirely, leading to off-target effects or incomplete editing. These errors contribute to variable editing efficiency, which is often difficult and costly to quantify. Inefficient editing negatively affects downstream experiments, sometimes requiring repetition of experiments, consequently increasing research time and expense. To address this challenge, we propose using post-edit selection methods to enrich correctly edited cells and reduce inefficiencies associated with genome editing. Specifically, three enrichment approaches are under evaluation. Two drug–gene pair strategies, fludarabine phosphate-deoxycytidine kinase (dCK) and puromycin–puromycin N-acetyltransferase (pac), and one surface marker–based method using CD47. In this design, a selectable marker gene is edited concurrently with the intended edit, allowing subsequent enrichment of altered cells through drug selection or surface marker–based separation. To evaluate these strategies, both selection-based and marker-based methods are being tested in human CD34⁺ hematopoietic progenitor stem cells (HPSCs). Unedited cells were first used to establish a fludarabine phosphate kill curve and to validate the efficiency of CD47 surface marker knockout. Following initial evaluation, guides targeting either drug-related genes or CD47, along with the gene of interest, are co-transfected into CD34⁺ HPSCs via lentiviral delivery. Drug-gene pair cells are then subjected to lethal concentrations of the corresponding drug, resulting in selective death of unedited cells while edited cells survive and are isolated. Alternatively, cells not expressing CD47 fail to bind selective magnetic microbeads and can be isolated using a magnetic column system. Cells are then assessed for enrichment efficiency and effects on cell differentiation capacity. Preliminary results indicate that fludarabine phosphate does not induce sufficient cytotoxicity in unedited cells, excluding it as a viable selection agent regardless of dCK gene status. Conversely, CD47 knockout was achieved with high efficiency, suggesting that CD47-based magnetic enrichment may be an effective post-edit selection strategy. We anticipate that co-editing CD47 alongside the target gene, followed by magnetic column separation, will yield a highly enriched edited population. Additionally, we expect that a puromycin–pac drug–gene pair will provide an additional, cost-effective option. Following enrichment by either method, minimal impact on cell viability and differentiation potential is expected. These approaches could prove to be promising strategies for improving post-CRISPR cell selection.

The discovery of novel secreted proteins in circulation is critical for advancing the study of inter-organ communication. However, the biological function of these proteins cannot be fully understood without precise knowledge of site of function in the body. This study investigates the localization of a candidate hormone named Adiposyn, using the model organism Drosophila. Adiposyn has been implicated in regulating Neuroligin/Neurexin interaction at the synapse. Previous work in our lab confirmed the presence of Adiposyn in Drosophila blood circulation via western blot. It is hypothesized that Adiposyn is secreted from adipose, circulates via the blood, and localizes to synapses. Using dissection, fixation, tissue-specific staining, and confocal microscopy of the Drosophila larval brain and neuromuscular junction (NMJ), we sought to determine the localization of Adiposyn-GFP in transgenic flies. Our preliminary results suggest that Adiposyn-GFP may not localize to the larval brain or the NMJ. Our current work involves whole larval dissection to visualize Adiposyn-GFP in all tissues.

Turners Syndrome (TS) is one of the most enigmatic chromosomal disorders known to genetics - a condition defined not only from the loss of one X-chromosome, but by the loss of genetic symmetry that shapes the development itself. Affecting approximately 1 out of 2,500 female births, TS manifests through a spectrum of phenotypes, which arise from the complete loss or mosaicism of the X-chromosome. Among the most critical genetic absences lies a specific portion within the pseudoautosomal region 1 (PAR1) Xp22.3 – the ShoxA gene. This portion of the X-chromosome is cordially labeled the "gene sink” as it is keystone in dictating cellular homeostasis, segmental growth patterns, and hormone secretion with the assistance of a variety of genes. Its deficiency or absence constitutes for a substantial amount of the Turners Syndrome phenotype; specifically at the juvenile age range, as it creates a cascade of developmental discrepancies that expand far beyond height dissimulation, influencing reproductive, cardiovascular, and neurocognitive systems - resulting in a diverse clinical spectrum as the young patients develop into adulthood and begin senescence.

Contemporary advances in CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology, the homology-directed repair (HDR) pathway, and mRNA-based delivery methodologies are redefining what was once considered irreversible genetic loss. By targeting the restoration of the ShoxA box within the Xp22.3 locus, these evolving technologies concurrently delineate a potential route towards the curative genome correction in mosaic TS patients that emphasizes both precise repair and high-fidelity molecular control. This dual-approach not only offers a framework for addressing chromosomal mosaicism, but also illuminates an emerging paradigm in cutting-edge, chromosomal-scale therapeutics, where architectural abnormalities may one day be restored at its roots rather than endured through management.

This qualitative study explores the educational, social, and infrastructural impacts of a newly established school in Mobia, a rural village in Ghana’s Bono East Region.  As part of a collaborative fieldwork experience, in collaboration with Empower Playgrounds, we conducted in-depth interviews with 20 community members—including teachers, current students, parents, and the village chief—to assess how access to formal education, borehole water, and energy solutions like generated lanterns, powered through merry-go-round play is transforming daily life, youth aspirations, and village-wide resilience.

National Service workers (NSWs) play a critical but often under-documented role in supporting educational access in rural Ghana.  Despite forming a substantial portion of the country’s teaching workforce—especially in underserved communities—little research has captured their lived experiences, daily challenges, and insights into barriers to learning.  This qualitative study explores the perspectives of NSWs serving in rural schools, with a secondary aim of examining potential differences between workers placed in Empower Playgrounds International (EPI) schools and those serving in non-EPI schools, particularly around motivation, resilience, and perceived support. Individual interviews and small focus groups produced a rich dataset, including thematic narratives, photographs, and participant quotes. Using an inductive grounded-theory approach, with patterns and themes that emerged naturally from each participant's voice.  These patterns were organized into major thematic areas such as: (1) resource limitations, (2) environmental and infrastructural barriers, (3) instructional challenges, (4) student attendance and motivation, (5) community engagement, and (6) workers’ professional identity and resilience.  Across themes, researchers also examined whether EPI-affiliated workers—who serve in schools equipped with innovative learning technologies and community-supported energy systems—reported different levels of motivation or classroom confidence compared to their non-EPI counterparts.Five dominant themes emerged: (1) insufficient teaching resources; (2) environmental hardships affecting attendance and concentration; (3) high workload and limited guidance support in Non-EPI interviews (4) strong commitment to students’ future success for EPI-affiliated workers and (5) EPI-affiliated workers often self-motivated whereas Non-EPI workers placement are seen as obligation.  Preliminary comparison suggests that EPI workers often reported slightly higher motivation and a sense of empowerment, attributed to improved learning conditions, increased community involvement, and access to supplemental teaching tools, though both groups showed dedication and adaptability.Participants described a complex balance of hardship and hope: while structural inequities hinder educational outcomes, NSWs consistently demonstrate resilience and deep commitment to their students adapting to whatever materials are provided. Findings from this study will inform ongoing work to develop a National Service worker survey, assess motivational differences across school and placement types, and guide recommendations for strengthening teacher preparedness, resource consistency, and equitable learning environments across rural Ghana.

School boundaries play a critical role in shaping the geography of education in Utah, determining where students attend school and influencing the quality of education they receive. These boundaries are periodically redrawn to accommodate population changes and shifting district needs. However, such decisions have historically reinforced patterns of segregation based on income, race, and other socioeconomic factors, often leading to unequal educational opportunities. This study focuses on middle school students in four Utah school districts—Tooele, Washington, Emery, and Daggett—during the 2023–24 academic year. It investigates the relationship between school boundary lines, neighborhood demographics (specifically income levels and housing prices), and student performance on standardized tests. This research aims to assess how socioeconomic disparities within and across school zones may be linked to academic achievement. It is expected that students in lower-income areas will have lower test scores, underscoring the continued influence of economic inequality on educational outcomes.

In the field of speech and hearing sciences, there is currently no method of gathering direct experiences from young children about their hearing loss. As a result, it is difficult to develop child-centered interventions that will support children’s specific developmental needs. We propose that researchers may be able to learn about the direct experiences of young DHH children by employing an interview method using puppets. Pediatric oncology scholars have developed such an interview method, using puppets to elicit responses from children about their experiences. For this feasibility study, we modified this technique for use with DHH children as a way to elicit their direct experiences with hearing loss and their hearing devices.

Eligible pediatric participants met the following criteria: 1) attend the local listening-and-spoken-language preschool; (2) are between the ages of 3 to 6 years; (3) have documented, permanent hearing loss; (4) use listening device(s); and (5) are able to communicate using spoken English. The participants (N = 13) in this study used hearing aids (n = 7), BAHA’s (n = 3), and cochlear implants (n = 3). The average age of participants in this study was 4.5 years old.

Prior to the interview, each participant’s parent provided consent and demographic information about their child. A researcher then conducted an interview with each child, individually in their local preschool classroom, with a teacher present. The researcher specifically used animal hand puppets to gain an understanding of their feelings toward their listening device(s) through prepared questions/dialogue. Each interview was video recorded for later transcription.

Our data showed that this puppet interview technique is feasible in accordance with all 8 a priori criteria. This suggests that not only can this method be executed in a research laboratory setting, but in other settings as well. As a next step we will conduct a full-scale study to determine if this method is efficacious outside of the research laboratory. If it is, ultimately it may help practitioners working with young children to administer care that is truly child centered. Such child-centered hearing health care would better support young DHH children’s development.

Aircraft design can be accelerated through computational modeling, but achieving both accuracy and efficiency remains challenging. High-fidelity methods provide excellent accuracy at the cost of excessive runtime and memory, while low-fidelity methods sacrifice accuracy for speed. Panel methods offer a practical mid-fidelity alternative, yet they are often constrained by the linear system solve—requiring O(n2) memory and O(n3) computational cost, if implemented naively. This research aims to improve simulation efficiency and establish recommended solution strategies based on problem complexity.

Three approaches are compared: (1) a traditional linear system solved using LU decomposition, (2) an iterative solver that reuses the LU decomposition (or inverse) of rigid bodies, and (3) an iterative solver leveraging the Fast Multipole Method to replace the matrix–vector product in a Gauss–Seidel–like iteration [1]. These solvers are applied to a wing and aileron configuration undergoing control surface deflections from −10° to +10°. Each iteration records runtime, residual, and memory usage to evaluate performance.

Planned verification includes comparing computed aerodynamic coefficients with experimental data to assess accuracy. By identifying where current solvers become memory- or runtime-limited, this work establishes a foundation for developing more efficient aerodynamic modeling tools.

Reference
[1] J. R. Anderson and A. Ning, "A fast multipole accelerated fixed-wing aerodynamic model,” AIAA Journal, vol. 60, no. 12, pp. 7138–7151, 2022. https://doi.org/10.2514/1.J061745

Healthcare inequality remains one of the world’s most persistent challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where underfunded health systems and limited infrastructure restrict access to essential medical technologies. Many existing health devices are developed for high-resource settings and fail when implemented in low-income environments, which leaves significant global health needs unmet. Addressing these inequities requires new approaches that merge engineering innovation with a deep understanding of contextual and systemic constraints.

This project, conducted through BYU’s Design Exploration (DesX) Lab, focuses on defining and advancing the discipline of Engineering for Global Health (EGH). Our work begins by developing a conceptual foundation for EGH, which we define as "the use of engineering innovations, principles, and/or design methodology as a framework to address global health challenges, especially in contexts shaped by inequality and resource constraints such as low- and middle-income countries.” To refine and validate this definition, we conducted a literature review and analysis of existing academic research, organizational databases(such as those of the World Health Organization and National Institutes of Health), and ongoing global health engineering initiatives.

Building on this theoretical groundwork, our current phase adopts a "market pull” approach to identify and prioritize unmet global health needs where engineering innovation can make the most impact. We are compiling a detailed map of existing products, companies, and research efforts in the field, focusing on recurring themes, technological gaps, and opportunities for sustainable design. Our early findings show that high-impact opportunities align with major global health priorities, including maternal and newborn health, infectious disease prevention, and strengthening healthcare systems.

The long-term goal of this research is to use these insights to guide the development of low-cost, context-appropriate medical technologies that can be effectively implemented in resource-constrained environments. By defining Engineering for Global Health and systematically identifying global health needs through an engineering lens, this work contributes both conceptual clarity and practical direction for future innovation. Ultimately, this research demonstrates how engineers can play a critical role in improving global health outcomes and advancing equity through sustainable, interdisciplinary design.

There are few reliable ways to measure stalk quality and assess lodging resistance. The most widely used method involves counting the total number of plants and lodged plants per plot to calculate percent of plants lodged (percent lodging). Percent lodging varies widely in trait expression and often has low repeatability. Flexural stiffness has been shown to be a predictor of both stalk strength and lodging resistance. However, flexural stiffness is much less widely used than stalk strength. In this study we compare the repeatability of percent lodging with that of flexural stiffness. Two methods for assessing flexural stiffness were used: (1) the Device for Assessing Lodging Resistance IN Grains (DARLING) and (2) a new high-throughput device that for measuring flexural stiffness. The DARLING is hand-operated. A single user can test 120-150 stalks per hour. The new high-throughput device is mounted on a motorized vehicle and can test 2000 stalks per hour. DARLING stiffness data was obtained from a 3-year experiment performed in Iowa across a diverse group of hybrids varying widely in stalk strength and at multiple plant densities. Repeatability was calculated across years, locations, and plant densities and genotypic correlations were calculated among locations and plant densities. Repeatabilities and correlations among environments indicated that flexural stiffness is a much more repeatable measure of stalk strength than percent lodging. Utilizing flexural stiffness data allows stalk lodging to be evaluated consistently regardless of the expression of stalk lodging and with measurement of a much smaller number of plots and or environments.

Currently, TikTok gets one billion views a day, with an average of 11,500 views per second. While such videos have increasingly become a common form of entertainment, very little is understood about the impact. However, some research suggests a correlation between short video (such as Tiktok, Reels, Shorts, etc.) usage and academic and/or work burnout. This study aims to understand how taking a break from these videos impacts work and academic burnout as well as psychological distress. Participants were asked to take a survey regarding these factors, including questions about exhaustion, mental distance, cognitive impairment, emotional impairment, psychological complaints and distress, and psychosomatic symptoms and complaints. Also included in the survey is an internet addiction questionnaire evaluating a participant's usage and relationship with the internet, as well as time spent online. Participants were recruited using a convenience sample. After completion of the survey, participants were instructed to abstain from short form videos for two weeks. Participants were informed they could continue to use long form videos on YouTube, as well as stories, and posts found on Instagram or Facebook. During this two week break half of participants were randomly selected to implement a goal-setting intervention designed to help them to be successful. The other group was not provided any suggestions, but rather just told to abstain. At the end of the two weeks participants were invited to complete a follow up survey consisting of the same questionnaires they answered before. We hypothesize young adults who successfully complete the challenge will experience a greater decrease in their work and academic burnout (along with other factors) than those who did not complete the challenge. Additionally, we propose that those participants who were guided in goal setting will be more successful in abstaining than those who did not receive such direction. Results from the research will be forthcoming once the study is completed.

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In the aftermath of the industrial revolution, William Morris, a poet, artist, craftsman, political activist, and book printer, began a counter movement reacting to the mass production and commercialization of goods—the Arts and Crafts Movement. Morris desired to bring joy to labor by connecting the worker to their product. Seeking to glorify this idea of handcraftmanship, Morris founded the Kelmscott Press, a fine press that produced books only of the highest quality. However, an issue arose. High-quality books cost customers more going against Morris’s beliefs in access to fine goods for all classes, not just the wealthiest. Scholars have long acknowledged this paradox: how can fine, rare books remain accessible to the working class without sacrificing their quality? Scholar EC Miller attempts to reconcile the dissonance by arguing that broader access to special collections in public libraries solves Morris’s dilemma (76). However, her argument focuses solely on the books produced by the Kelmscott Press, failing to acknowledge the thousands of books produced by later fine presses. This places the Kelmscott Press as a singular experiment in quality craftsmanship, instead of as the beginning of a movement leading to multitudes of fine books, as this research seeks to explore. Through a literary review and compilation of metadata for over 900 fine presses found in the BYU library database, this research aims to reframe Morris’s paradox by exploring the proliferation of fine presses and revealing how Morris’s Kelmscott Press was the catalyst for a movement of hundreds of fine presses, providing higher numbers of books to all classes and answering the long-debated paradox. In other words, William Morris’s vision for the working class's access to fine goods parallels the vision he had for the creation of the books themselves; it is through slow and purposeful creation that timeless change can be made. By utilizing Wikidata data models, this research explores and maps the progression of the fine press movement, demonstrating how its evolution and spread allowed for Morris’s visions to become a reality and offering a glimpse of a world where all people could have access to beautiful goods, regardless of social class.

Suicide and depression are difficult topics for many people. Those who are dealing with, or have dealt with, depression often feel alone — secluded and separated from society and others. It’s not easy to talk to someone about your issues; it may often feel impossible. Others may not even recognize their own symptoms. After being told depression is a bad thing their entire lives, they suppress these feelings and hide them away. Despite living everyday thinking they just have to survive to make it past the weekdays, they consider themselves healthy. In reality, they wake up every morning wondering why they got up. Why didn't they die in their sleep? Wishing that the world would pass them by, not just today, but everyday forever. It’s a difficult issue that very rarely offers a simple solution. Even if their depression goes noticed it cannot be easily expected for them to open up. How could they talk about something they don’t even realize exists? This is where media comes into the story. Nearly everyone consumes media — whether it be television shows, video games, books, or art, most anyone would love to talk about one of their favorites. The issue being suicide’s censorship within media. Suicide, if correctly represented, can be very comforting to someone suffering. Psychology studies show that sad or depressing media are often beneficial not only to those suffering, but to anyone. It helps us appreciate our own lives, those around us, and ourselves. However, it’s important that whether suffering or recovering, the person goes and consumes said media with the intention of understanding and discussing. Discussing somber media with another is often therapeutic. When dealing with anything involving suicide it’s a double-edged sword. Being sure to navigate these correct depictions is not only necessary but can prove infinitely valuable. In this presentation I will discuss media that helped me specifically recover from depression. While media such as “Doki Doki Literature Club”, “No Longer Human”, and “Goodnight Punpun” may not have helped when consumed alone, they proved beneficial even after full recovery after discussing with my peers.

Ancient historians such as Alexander (2003) and Skinner (2011) often assume that Clodia Metelli was present in the audience during Cicero’s Pro Caelio, his defense of Marcus Caelius Rufus in which he repeatedly attacks Clodia’s character. Her presence is assumed partly due to circumstantial evidence within Cicero’s speech, such as his extensive attention to undermining her role in the prosecution. Yet, given the scarcity of evidence for aristocratic women’s direct participation in Roman political life, her attendance cannot be assumed without further proof.

This paper argues that Cicero’s use of demonstrative pronouns and deictic expressions in his Pro Caelio oration, when compared with other legal speeches, provides strong evidence that Clodia was in the audience to hear his attacks firsthand. This finding reshapes our understanding of criminal trials in the late Republic, women’s participation in political life, and the ways linguistic analysis can illuminate the lives of figures such as Clodia. I will show how this additional evidence adds to our understanding of the functioning of criminal trials in ancient Rome, how women interacted with trials and politics during the late republic, and how linguistic evidence can help us piece together rare clues into the life of one of the Roman Republic’s most interesting women.

Works Referenced:
Alexander, Michael C. The Case for the Prosecution in the Ciceronian Era, University of Michigan Press, 2003.
Skinner, Marilyn B. Clodia Metelli: The Tribune's Sister, Oxford University Press, 2011.

In July 2024, the Utah government bill titled HB 261, or the equal opportunity initiative, took effect, making it illegal for public higher education institutions to provide programs and initiatives that create differential treatment based on a person’s identity traits, such as race, gender, and sexuality. This bill has created massive state-wide impacts on all public higher-education institutions and has significantly altered opportunities within the DEI space (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). Utah’s HB 261 is one of the many recent bills in America that have passed relating to how schools should or if they should use DEI initiatives within their institutions or curriculums. With such a dramatic change to the educational support landscape within Utah, it is extremely vital to see how students are processing these shifts and how it influences their identity and communities in college. Qualitative interviews have been conducted with public university students in Utah to gain deeper insights into how HB 261 and the overall political climate regarding DEI have impacted their lives and experiences in higher education. Common themes have been pulled from the data that is based on their transcripts. The results of this study have shown how HB 261, a year after its initiation, has done extensive and unforeseen changes to students' experiences and senses of belonging on campus. Students believe that there has been a shift on the view of vulnerable identities, a loss of needed and effective support, a desire for DEI initiatives, and a need for support from universities and government. The study also reveals gaps in addressing accessibility and flaws that current legislation may have missed and helps future legislation better meet the needs of students in higher education.

Transgender individuals, or those who identify with a gender other than the sex they were assigned at birth, have gained significant visibility over the past few decades. While this visibility has led to more social acceptance and protective policies for transgender individuals, it has also led to a reactionary movement seeking to reverse this progress. Over the past decade, there has been an exponential increase in legislation that is part of this reactionary movement in the United States. This legislation has primarily been on the state level, although a few bills have been introduced in Congress. There was a steady increase in anti-transgender legislation starting in 2015, with a sharp, exponential increase beginning in 2020, with twice as many bills being introduced in 2021 compared to 2020 (Trans Legislation Tracker, 2025). These bills concern a wide variety of issues, from sports participation for transgender adolescents to drag bans to restrictions on bathroom usage. This paper finds that only a small percentage of the bills are passed into law, indicating that passing laws is less important to legislators than introducing bills. Given these intentions, this paper seeks to analyze the demographic makeup of chambers that introduce and pass these bills to understand who is supporting these bills and whether descriptive representation has a positive effect on transgender policy priorities. The results indicate that in tightly controlled chambers, more LGBTQ+ legislators indicate more anti-transgender legislation. Additionally, in Republican controlled chambers, having more women indicates a higher percentage of anti-transgender legislation. These findings have important implications for the causes of anti-transgender legislation and the effects of descriptive representation.

This literature review explores the role of Occupational Therapy (OT) and Child Family Mental Health (CFMH) in maternal-newborn care (MNBC), emphasizing the need for holistic, interdisciplinary support for mothers and caregivers. Approximately 20 percent of women in the United States experience postpartum mental-health symptoms, as the transition from pregnancy to motherhood often affects sleep, motor skills, cognitive functioning, emotional regulation, social engagement, and daily routines. Occupational therapists assess related physical or psychosocial changes, identify strengths and limitations, and develop targeted interventions. These interventions help establish functional daily routines, support maternal self-efficacy, and promote positive caregiver-infant interactions. Importantly, the OT specialization contributes to the interdisciplinary Child Family Mental Health (CFMH) model, which promotes health and well-being in young children and their families through a relationship-based approach, especially in healthcare settings. Maternal-newborn care teams typically include OB/GYNs, pediatricians, nurses, lactation specialists, social workers, and physical therapists who collaborate to provide comprehensive support and address critical health and educational needs throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period. However, many healthcare facilities across the U.S., including the University of Utah MNBC, do not currently include OT or CFMH services. While OT coverage is growing in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), maternal-newborn care units remain under-researched, and services are not universally available. This gap highlights an opportunity to explore how OT and CFMH more broadly support mothers in adjusting to the rapid occupational and psychosocial changes during pregnancy and the postpartum period. In interdisciplinary settings where providers' roles can overlap, it is important to highlight OT's unique contributions, particularly as critical CFMH specialists. Occupational therapists bring expertise in fostering therapeutic relationships, role transition, habit formation, and environmental adaptation, complementing the care provided by existing teams. By bridging traditional health care and psychosocial support, OT as a CFMH provider in MNBC can support mothers through consultative engagement, brief assessments and interventions, resource development, and anticipatory guidance to manage pregnancy and postpartum changes. Integrating OT as a CFMH resource promotes maternal and newborn adjustment and improves long-term mental and physical outcomes for caregivers, infants, and families. Keywords: Occupational therapy, child family mental health, maternal-newborn, interdisciplinary, pregnancy, postpartum

This study examines the relationship between gender identity and mental health outcomes in individuals who have experienced a sexual assault (SA). Responses were gathered from 1,359 post-secondary students in the United States, identifying as female (58.8%), male (39%), and transgender/gender non-conforming (TGNC; 2.1%) individuals. Of the participants, 769 reported experiencing SA, including all TGNC participants (n = 17). The unique findings within the TGNC sample, although having low power statistically, highlight the importance of future, intentional examination towards better understanding impacts and treatment of mental health among this vulnerable population.

Data collection consisted of a one-hour survey disseminated among post-secondary students across the United States, assessing mental health outcomes using standardized tools, including the SES-LFV, PCL-5, CES, LEC-5, GAD-7, and PHQ-9. One-way ANOVAs found significant differences in mental health outcomes across gender identities. Results showed statistical significance for negative post-trauma cognitions, centrality of event, substance use, and sleep hours, as well as symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The TGNC group scored significantly higher than male and female, SA and non-SA groups in PCL-5, CES, and caffeine use. For instance, PTSD symptoms, measured using the PCL-5, differed significantly among genders within the SA group [F(2, 766) = 17.504, p < .001]. Post-hoc comparisons using Tukey’s HSD revealed the TGNC group (M = 54.35, SD = 14.49), female group (M = 40.79, SD = 11.38), and male group (M =38.12, SD = 12.16) all varied significantly. The nearly 14-point difference between PCL-5 scores in the TGNC group and the female group underscores the potential severity of the mental health disparity between cisgender and TGNC individuals. Although non statistically significant (largely due to disproportionate group sizes), the TGNC group also had the highest average anxiety and alcohol use scores, further emphasizing the need for future studies that offer a larger TGNC sample to broaden power and generalizability.

Retributive justice is a philosophical system where offenders and criminals meet a punishment in proportion to the severity of the crime. As I have further investigated and researched I have found new ways of thinking and examples that could potentially give a better lifestyle not only for our society, but future generations and communities that could thrive from implementing some of these things. This paper will dive into solutions for current problems that the justice system is facing as well as conduct research on benefits and drawbacks that these changes could lead to. According to the "National Criminal Justice Reference System", this philosophy must have at least these three principles: One, A person can only be punished if the crime was committed voluntarily; Two, The punishment must be equal to the wickedness of the offense; Three, The purpose of punishment must only be to return equal hardship. This paper reviews the philosophical foundations of retributivism, tracing its origins to early legal codes like lex talionis ("an eye for an eye") and the works of theorists such as Immanuel Kant and H.L.A Hart, who argued that punishment is a crucial duty required to uphold justice. Furthermore, retributivism is criticized for its sole focus on the crime and punishment, often for failing to address the root causes of criminal behavior, such as socio-eco inequality, and potentially hindering offender rehabilitation. This paper contends that the apparent flaws of retributivism, often highlighted by alternative theories, are in fact its strengths. While rehabilitation is important, it should be considered a secondary benefit of a justly imposed sentence, not its primary justification. Ultimately, this paper will show why retributive justice offers a clear, principled, and fair framework that holds offenders accountable, honors the natural morality of the law, and serves the long-term stability of the community.

Early life experiences are pivotal to how adults form relationships; traumatic experiences are more impactful than others. For example, nine percent of children experience contact sexual violence, and six percent experience forced sexual intercourse (Piolanti et al., 2025). Childhood sexual abuse (CSA), an adverse childhood experience (ACEs), is the traumatic act of engaging children in sexual activities they do not understand, cannot consent to, or are developmentally unprepared for. It remains widely underreported and has lasting psychological consequences (Daley et al. 2025). CSA leads to short and long-term health risk behaviors and disease such as increased risk of alcoholism, drug abuse, depression, and suicidal ideation (Felitti et al. 1998). Furthermore, CSA may contribute to negative body evaluations due to shame, self-blame, and altered body perception resulting from abuse, and uniquely contributes to lower body appreciation (Maniglio, 2009). A negative view of the body may also contribute to negative consequences in adult relationships such as contempt in relationships, fear of intimate contact, risk of sexual problems, high levels of emotional intensity, and increased relationship instability (Raque-Bogdan et al., 2016). Attachment is a theoretical model that describes how early parent-child relationships affect well-being across the lifespan (Bowlby,1969). Romantic attachment, which stems from childhood attachment, is typically the continuation of patterns from early parent-child experiences into adult romantic relationships. The two dimensions of adult attachment, anxiety and avoidance, represent how people view themselves and others, and the extent to which their needs are met (Simpson et al. 2017). People who experience inconsistent, unresponsive caregiving, or abuse, in childhood tend to develop attachment anxiety and avoidance, which leads to a negative self-image and disruptions in romantic relationships (Grenon et al., 2016). This study will evaluate relationships between CSA, body satisfaction, romantic attachment, and romantic satisfaction. We expected CSA would predict lower body appreciation, attachment anxiety and avoidance, and romantic relationship satisfaction. Adult participants (N = 286) who were mostly female (77%, M = 32.42), complete the Adverse Childhood Experiences questionnaire (Felitti et al., 1998), Body Appreciation Scale (Avalos et al., 2005), Experiences in Close Relationships-Relationship Structures questionnaire (Fraley et al., 2011), and the Kansas Marital Satisfaction Scale (Schumm et al., 1983) via an online survey. Regression analysis indicated romantic anxiety and avoidance mediate the relation between ACES and romantic relationship satisfaction and account for 55% of the variance in romantic satisfaction. These results have implications for people in romantic relationships.

Since 2020, attempts to remove books from public school libraries have risen dramatically. PEN America has shown increases every school year since they started tracking these bans in 2021, with their highest total of 10,046 books (4,231 unique titles) being removed from shelves during the 2023-24 school year. The policies that restrict books typically happened at a district level but are now coming more from state legislatures, including in Utah. Utah’s law, enacted in 2024 requires a book to be removed from all the school libraries in the state iif only 3 school districts out of the 30+ in the state deem the book as “sensitive.” This has led to the removal of 19 titles already, while 50 or so more stand on the brink. Proponents argue that these laws support parents in protecting their children, but there is a startling lack of research on how parents feel about the removal of books from school libraries aside from a few “agree or disagree” surveys. Our research seeks to fill this gap by analyzing parental opinions on these book removals and the concept of school censorship in general. In this qualitative study, we distributed a survey and received over 300 responses and then parlayed that survey into 30 in-depth interviews with parents across Utah. Our surveys and interviews focused on kinds of content that parents aren’t comfortable with, experiences they’ve had with their child around books, how they would handle potentially tricky content, their relationships with libraries and teachers, and their opinions on the removals in general. Our first analysis focused on part of the survey and has revealed common trends among parents on why certain kinds of content are deemed unacceptable, such as things like being “mentally harmful” or a fear that reading about bad behaviors will normalize them for children. We have also found a real nuance about the concept of what is “age appropriate,” with many parents showing varied responses about what concepts are appropriate at what ages. These findings undercut the one-size fits all that state statutes typically take, and they highlight the need for further analysis of public perception of such laws.

"The HIV/AIDS epidemic was viewed as a moral failure within the Queer community across the nation, rather than the medical crises it was throughout the 1980s-1990s. The Zion Curtain is the belief within the LDS population of Utah that the land of Utah is gods’ sacred and holy land; therefore, they are protected here, and are immune from outer influences and dangers– this includes the denial of the existence of the prominent Queer community within the state borders. As a result of the pervasive presence of the LDS Church in the state of Utah and their staunch beliefs against homosexual behaviors, Utah is rarely brought into the conversation when discussing the epidemic. Through literary review, national and state archival research, this research research aims to call attention to the real history of how Utah addressed the HIV/AIDS epidemic, confronting the reality in which the LDS Church, healthcare workers, local communities, and state government responded to the medical crises that was manipulated into moral failure. Despite the myth of the Zion Curtain, the AIDS epidemic impacted the state of Utah deeply. Previous scholars have brought attention to the positive impacts Utah had within the research of the AIDS epidemic, but the harsh reality of the states’ initial response and impact is a necessity to discuss in these conversations to ensure that the same mistakes and disenfranchisement of the Queer community never occurs on this level as we continue to move forward. "

All That Breathes originates from a central inquiry: What does it mean to breathe together and to advocate for the voiceless? In an era defined by division, isolation, and sensory overload, the project invites participants and audiences to pause—to inhale, to exhale, and to listen. Breath functions as both a literal and symbolic bridge between the body and the world, uniting life experiences across differences. The transformative power of unity and advocacy anchors the study, inspiring hope and a sense of shared purpose.

Developed through Weber State University’s Moving Company, All That Breathes represents an interdisciplinary performance-based research study that integrates dance, poetry, qualitative inquiry, music, and visual art to connect the arts, humanities, and health sciences. Over one academic year, twelve undergraduate dance artists collaborated with community partners across Northern Utah and Salt Lake City who live with Parkinson’s disease, spastic paraplegia, stroke, and other neurological conditions. The study illuminates resilience, identity, and interdependence through creative practice and embodied storytelling. Emphasizing resilience empowers participants and inspires strength and determination in the audience.

Student researchers completed comprehensive training in cultural competency, semi-structured interviewing, verbatim transcription, thematic coding, and reflective journaling. Faculty mentorship equipped them to conduct research ethically and effectively. The analytic process revealed recurring themes of endurance, empathy, and transformation, which the students translated into choreographic and musical compositions. Rehearsals evolved into interdisciplinary laboratories where community partners co-created movement, voice, and spatial design, ensuring authenticity and ethical representation.

The project premiered during THE FIELD: Fall into Dance (November 2025) and will culminate in an expanded presentation during THE FIELD: Spring into Dance (April 2026). Performances operate as embodied archives of lived experience—expressing joy, loss, renewal, and collective strength. Each duet between student and community partner honors the gestures that sustain humanity: a hand extended, a rhythm remembered, a breath shared.

Findings demonstrate that dance operates as a rigorous form of qualitative research and as an agent for social advocacy within health humanities. Student reflections reveal growth in empathy, critical awareness, and civic responsibility. Community partners report increased visibility, agency, and connection through artistic participation.

All That Breathes unites performance, research, and care. The study redefines art-making as a legitimate form of inquiry and healing. Positioning movement as a bridge between lived experience and collective understanding dance functions as both method and message—embodying the shared breath that sustains compassion, advocacy, and human connection.

This documentary explores an emerging international collaboration in nature-informed therapy (NIT), highlighting how communities in both Ukraine and the United States are engaging with the natural world as a resource for mental health and trauma recovery. Filming began in April 2025 in Hungary, where nearly 30 Ukrainian therapists and community leaders gathered for training with a U.S. psychologist from the Center for Nature Informed Therapy (CNIT). The film follows this exchange through the summer, documenting the U.S. facilitator’s ongoing clinical work, as well as the lived experiences of participants navigating the ongoing challenges of war and displacement.

By the fall of 2025, two Ukrainian trainees traveled to Maryland to attend CNIT’s official training program, allowing the project to capture reflections on the practical integration of NIT approaches in Ukraine. Central to their stories are the ways individuals are finding solace in plants and wildlife—even while access to wilder places is restricted by safety concerns—and the creative adaptations being tested, such as the use of botanical gardens with non-licensed facilitators to reduce stigma and expand accessibility of care.

The documentary also situates the Ukrainian experience within broader applications of NIT in the United States. Late-stage filming looks to incorporate perspectives from Native American (Shoshone) practitioners, re-entry workers in the prison system, and facilitators supporting grief and loss. Together, these narratives underscore a common theme: nature as a vital, culturally adaptable partner in healing anxious, grieving, and traumatized communities, and yet another endeniable reason to ensure its protection.