About me
Oral Presentation Abstracts Session #11
3:05 to 3:25 p.m. Friday, September 5, 2025
Location: SUB Top Floor Rooms
These abstracts were published unedited to reflect the author’s original submission
Coffelt , Parker - Major: Biology (Pre-Health track) & Chemistry (Pre-Health track) , University of Northern Colorado
Mentor: Dr. Andrea James , Associate Professor , Department of Biological Sciences
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Isleta
Title: CBD's effect on gastrulation and vascular formation
Abstract: As marijuana has been decriminalized and legalized in many U.S. states, the use of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from cannabis, has significantly increased. While CBD is commonly used to manage various physical and mental health conditions in adults, its potential impact on early embryonic development remains largely unstudied. This gap in knowledge is particularly important in cases of prenatal exposure, such as when CBD is used during pregnancy and reaches the developing embryo. Preliminary findings from our lab suggest that CBD exposure may interfere with critical developmental processes in zebrafish, including impaired tail formation, reduced overall size, and abnormal motor function. Notably, early observations indicate disruptions in gastrulation and the presence of leaky vasculature in the heart. This ongoing project aims to investigate these developmental effects in greater detail by imaging phenotypic differences between untreated (wild-type) and CBD-exposed zebrafish embryos prior to gastrulation. We are particularly interested in how CBD may hinder epiboly, a key movement during gastrulation. Furthermore, we will explore vascular development using kdrl:mCherry transgenic zebrafish, which express fluorescent markers in endothelial cells, to better understand the mechanisms behind the observed vascular leakage and potential failure of epithelial barrier formation.
Delgado, Fernanda - Major: Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, University of Arizona
Mentor: Dr. Genesis Arizmendi, Assistant Professor, Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Santa Ana B
Title: Creating Emotionally Protective Experiences for First-Generation Hispanic High School Students Entering Higher Education Environments
Abstract: The transition to higher education institutions for first-generation Hispanic students from the U.S./Mexico Borderlands can often feel isolating and overwhelming. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of a culturally responsive campus visit designed to mitigate impostor-related self-doubt and promote belonging among first-generation Hispanic high school seniors from the Borderlands who are considering attending the University of Arizona. Using a mixed methods approach, I designed a survey with open-ended and Likert-scale items to understand the participants' perceptions of the culturally responsive campus visit using both qualitative and quantitative data. The participants included 17 high school seniors from a high school in the U.S./Mexico Borderlands. All participants identified as members of an underrepresented racial and/or ethnic group. Their responses highlighted the significance of the resources provided to this group of students (Campus Closet and Pantry, Thrive Center, Cultural Resource Centers, etc.), as well as the positive impact that cultural representation had on their experience on the university campus. Findings suggest that intentional integration and implementation of culturally responsive elements into the campus visit experience can help address feelings of imposter phenomenon and lack of belonging by connecting students to relevant resources and environments where they feel a sense of safety and comfort. By acknowledging the cultural and environmental mismatches that first-generation minority students often experience on a university campus, higher education institutions can implement actionable strategies to foster a more inclusive learning environment.
Diaz, Haley - Major: Chemistry, University of New Mexico
Mentor: Dr. Jun-Yong Choe, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Lobo A
Title: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Optimizing GLUT3 Inhibitor Binding Through Analog Design and Validation
Abstract: Cancer cells frequently overexpress the glucose transporter GLUT3 to support their
elevated metabolic demands, making GLUT3 a compelling therapeutic target. G3iA, a
known GLUT3 inhibitor, competitively blocks glucose uptake and has demonstrated
anticancer potential. My project aims to optimize G3iA by designing and synthesizing
analogs with improved binding affinity. Using structure-guided design informed by
literature and docking studies, I created six analogs varying a substituent in the G3iA
scaffold. I performed molecular docking using AutoDock Vina and molecular modeling
to visualize binding within the GLUT3 binding site. Two analogs showed enhanced
predicted binding affinity. Building on this, I am currently working to synthesize G3iA to
reconfirm its thermodynamic behavior and establish a baseline for comparison. Despite
synthetic challenges and equipment limitations, this project integrates computational
chemistry, organic synthesis, and biochemistry to explore new avenues in drug
discovery. Future work will include protein purification, isothermal titration calorimetry
(ITC), and ¹⁴C-labeled uptake assays to assess binding energetics and
pharmacokinetics. This research not only contributes to GLUT3-targeted cancer therapy
but also reflects a broader interest in merging computational and experimental methods
to accelerate innovation in medicinal chemistry.
Fofana, Magou - Major: Forensic Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Mentor: Dr. Jessica Arenella, Adjunct, Department of Psychology
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Luminaria
Title: Unmet Psychological Needs: Impacts of Acculturation on Immigrant-Origin CUNY students help seeking
Abstract: Immigrant-origin college students have varying attitudes towards help seeking. Acculturation to the dominant American culture may play a role in the formation of these attitudes. This study conducted in a City University of New York public university examined the impacts of acculturation on American college students' attitudes towards help seeking. In a sample of 100 students, participants completed a survey questionnaire by either scanning a digital code or using the online SONA system. Through the use of the Attitudes Towards Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale (ATSPPHS) and the Stephenson Multigroup Acculturation Scale (SMAS), the study measured acculturation and attitudes. Results would indicate immigrant-origin students having lower levels of acculturation than nonimmigrant origin students and higher levels of acculturation corresponding to more positive attitudes towards help seeking while lower levels of acculturation demonstrating more negative attitudes. The findings provide college administration reasoning to attune mental health centers to increase help seeking amongst immigrant-origin students.
Gramajo, Bryan - Major: Physiology , University of Arizona
Mentor: Dr. David Latt/Dr. Chris Arellano, Associate Professor with Tenure/Associate Professor, Both are a part of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and the Department of
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Acoma A
Title: Reimagining Joint Analysis: Evaluating a Markerless Motion Capture System
Abstract: Accurate measurement of joint angles is critical in physical therapy, but most clinical environments still rely on manual tools, which can lack accuracy; although advanced motion capture systems offer a more precise solution, they are often too costly and complex for routine clinical use. This pilot study evaluates the concurrent validity of iMagine, a markerless, AI-powered motion capture system, against the gold-standard Vicon system, a marker-dependent motion capture system, for measuring ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. Five healthy adult participants completed repeated ankle flexion movements while simultaneously being recorded by both systems. Mean peak dorsiflexion and plantarflexion angles were compared using statistical methods to assess agreement and the relationship between the two systems. It is expected that the Imagine system will demonstrate comparable results, with minimal differences and strong correlations, supporting its potential as a clinically viable tool for assessing ankle joint range of motion. If validated, the iMagine markerless motion capture system could offer clinicians an accessible, cost-effective alternative with the potential to enhance rehabilitation outcomes and improve quality of life for individuals with mobility impairments.
Jackson, Brandon - Major: Psychology, University of New Mexico
Mentor: Dr. Samuel McKenzie, Assistant Professor, School of Medicine Neuroscience
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Lobo B
Title: Cell Assembly Membership in the Hippocampus
Abstract: Memory is believed to be encoded by changes in the synaptic strength between neurons. Within the hippocampus, changes in the synapse are needed for long-term memory consolidation, however, it is not known how neural activity during learning affects subsequent changes in synaptic strength. This project consisted of two experimental parts: inducing plasticity by using optogenetics and inhibiting lasting plasticity by using drugs to prevent CAP-dependent protein translation. The plasticity induction section of the experiment tested the plasticity rules governing the excitatory synaptic strength with inhibitory neurons. It is well known that coincident activity of pre- and postsynaptic neurons is needed for plasticity inductions. Therefore, we prepared mice in which the neural activity of two connected cell populations could be independently controlled. To induce plasticity, excitatory and inhibitory cells expressed opsins that were sensitive to different wavelengths of light. Pulsing both wavelengths simultaneously increased cell assembly membership which means that inhibitory cells are important for cellular assembly recruitment. To disrupt normal plasticity we utilized PKR mice in which consolidation of synaptic plasticity is disrupted by reducing protein translation. Using this chemogenetic approach, we found that both excitatory and inhibitory cells had an increased firing rate while in a novel context for a second time. A higher firing rate is a biomarker for novelty. Together these experiments show the importance of the inhibitory neuron in cell assembly membership recruitment and the importance of synaptic-related proteins in memory consolidation.
Juarez, Jonathan - Major: Data Science and Economics, California Polytechnic University, Humboldt
Mentor: Dr. Xinyu Duo and Dr. Rob Jackson, Dr. Xinyu Duo [Postdoctoral Scholar] and Dr. Rob Jackson [Professor], Department of Earth System Science at Stanford University
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Trailblazer/Spirit
Title: Methane on the Map: A Multi-Source Approach to Monitoring Anthropogenic Emissions Using Satellite, Surface, and Machine Learning Data
Abstract: Methane (CH₄) is a highly potent greenhouse gas, and emissions from the livestock sector represent a major share of global anthropogenic CH₄. Current livestock emission inventories would benefit from being more frequent and complete, improving their usefulness for near-real-time monitoring and policy applications. This study develops an improved bottom-up inventory model for livestock CH₄ emissions, designed to produce near-real-time, gridded estimates at 0.1° × 0.1° resolution using activity data and IPCC emission factors. We integrate multi-source activity data from FAOSTAT, USDA, UN Comtrade, and WITS for nine key animal types; asses, buffaloes, camels, cattle, goats, horses, mules, sheep, and swine, across the top 20 methane-emitting countries. To address critical data gaps, we incorporate auxiliary socioeconomic predictors such as market prices, national GDP, and population. Missing livestock populations were imputed using Random Forest, Bayesian Ridge, and XGBoost, which provided complete activity datasets for calculating livestock CH₄ emissions. This approach improves temporal resolution from annual to near-monthly updates, with inventories extended through 2024. The resulting model enhances the spatial and temporal completeness of livestock methane inventories, enabling more precise methane tracking, trend analysis, and uncertainty quantification. For future work, this framework can support verification of mitigation measures under the Global Methane Pledge, be expanded to additional agricultural sectors, and provide a foundation for comprehensive, near-real-time methane emission inventories. Ultimately, this system strengthens our capacity for climate reporting and advances data-driven methane management strategies.
Price, Desirae - Major: A double major in BA Anthropology and BA in Linguistics; Minor in International Relations , New Mexico State University
Mentor: Dr. Mark Waltermire , Professor , Department of Languages and Linguistics
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Fiesta B
Title: Relational resonance and language
visibility across Aotearoa: A mixed methodology of linguistic landscaping shaped by cultural experience through etic engagement
Abstract: As world becoming more divided, more than ever cross cultural ties through language and culture may answer more questions on how the global community may develop a stronger connected world through acknowledging a deeper understanding of etic engagement as international researchers. By means of linguistic landscaping, this ongoing research asks how does language across Aotearoa’s three largest cities engage and shape the experience of the outsider; and it asks does this interaction with language contribute to relational sustainability? Rather than approach from an ethnographic perspective, this research focuses on language display in public spaces through the eye of a visitor and utilizes frequency charts, and autoethnographic practices like journaling, to bring awareness of connections made through language being seen and heard. This research highlights the importance of language visibility, ethics, policy, accountability, decolonial practices, and needed connectivity through cultural learning to ultimately create a sustainable future for the global community.
Rubio-Lobaton, Kevin - Major: Finance, Our lady of the lake university
Mentor: Dr Watts , Professor , Business Finance
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Acoma B
Title: The Perceived Impact Of AI On Business Decision-Making an Operation Efficiency
Abstract: This study examined how business and IT leaders perceive the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing decision-making and improving operational efficiency. As AI adoption grows, leadership perspectives are key in shaping implementation strategies and addressing ethical challenges. The research addressed a gap in understanding how leaders’ views influence ethical decision-making, implementation practices, and responses to AI’s limitations. Using a qualitative comparative case study, data were collected through interviews and surveys with cybersecurity product managers, IT departments, and university technology leaders. Participants’ trust in AI-generated insights varied based on their technical understanding of AI systems. Concerns included algorithmic bias, ethical transparency, policy enforcement, and rapid technological obsolescence. Findings showed that AI improves efficiency by automating tasks and enabling data-driven decisions, but leaders stressed the need for human oversight, formal policies, and continuous training to ensure responsible use. Leadership perspectives were found to be central to ethical AI integration. Future research should explore ways to reduce AI bias, assess long-term integration impacts, and create sustainable frameworks that balance ethical priorities with evolving technology.
Simmons, Kathryn - Major: Triple: Pre-Med, Sociology, Psychology, University of Colorado Boulder
Mentor: Dr. Ryan Curtis, Dr. Corey McZeal, Department of Sociology
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Fiesta A
Title: Stigma and Placement Instability in the U.S. Child Welfare System
Abstract: Motivation:
This study explores how behavioral and mental health checklists in the child welfare system influence stigma and placement instability for foster youth. The study aims to provide insights into how stigma in placement decisions impacts foster youth, with the goal of improving placement outcomes and reducing problematic labeling in child welfare systems.
Research Questions:
Do these checklists perpetuate stigma by indicating youth as "difficult to place," and how does placement instability impact former foster youth emotionally and psychologically? Secondary questions examine the effect of the number and type of checkboxes on placement outcomes, and whether providing additional context can improve decision-making in placements.
Methods:
Part 1:
20 structured qualitative interviews with child welfare professionals and former foster youth to understand the broader systemic causes of placement instability and the psychological effects of stigmatizing checklists.
Part 2
A Qualtrics survey administered to 1,000 CU Boulder students via the CU SONA subject pool, presenting them with simulated placement forms to assess roommate suitability and how different combinations of checklist items and contextual information affect perceptions of placement suitability. There will be two roommate profiles; a “good roommate” and a “bad roommate” that is informed by the results of a pilot study conducted. There will be four conditions, contextual background provided vs. not, outdated history removed vs. retained, which roommate profile and individual receives.
Expected Results (Hypotheses):
Providing background information and removing outdated concerns will increase placement likelihood.
More checkboxes will negatively affect placement decisions.
Vargas, Jennifer - Major: Psychology , Northeastern Illinois University
Mentor: Dr. Andrew Young, Professor, Research, and Lecturer , Department of Developmental Psychology
Oral Presentation Session #11, Room: Santa Ana A
Title: Cognitive Reflection Predicts Gender Essentialism In Girls, But Not Boys
Abstract: Research shows that cognitive reflection, the ability to override intuitive responses, is related to adults’ essentialist thinking. Essentialism is the belief that certain traits or characteristics are innate and unchangeable (e.g., girls are born liking dolls and boys are born liking trucks). Understanding factors involved in essentialist thinking is important because adults and children with more essentialist beliefs tend to exhibit more social bias and prejudice. Our study examined cognitive reflection and essentialist beliefs in children. We conducted an online experiment with 5-12-year-old children (n = 185; Mean Age = 9.17 yrs; 51% female). We measured their cognitive reflection using the CRT-D (example item: “Emily's father has three daughters. The first two are named Monday and Tuesday. What is the third daughter's name?”). We also measured their essentialist thinking about gender (example item: "Do you think Andrew can change whether or not he is a boy if he wants to?"). Girls with higher cognitive reflection scores had fewer essentialist beliefs about gender, r = −0.334, p < 0.001. However, there was no relationship between cognitive reflection and gender essentialism in boys, r = 0.060, p = 0.574. These results suggest that the connection between essentialist thinking and cognitive reflection emerges early in development. Further, this connection is highly context-dependent – reflective thinking predicted gender essentialism in girls, but not boys. Future research will explore the mechanisms underlying this gender difference and whether interventions aimed at enhancing cognitive reflection can have a lasting effect on children's social belief systems.
