Stander Symposium: Projects with UD Institutional Learning Goals

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  Design and Testing of a CubeSat Radiator Prototype

  Abigail Boyer

  As part of the NASA CubeSat Launch Initiative, this research consists of designing and testing a CubeSat satellite prototype. Primarily used for research purposes, a CubeSat is a cuboidal nanosatellite with side dimensions of 10 centimeters. Due to the harsh space environment, the CubeSat experiences rapid temperature fluctuations, leaving it susceptible to damage. As a result, only about 50% of current CubeSats complete their mission. Unfortunately, the current technology used to modulate temperature on typical spacecraft is too sizeable to be applied to a CubeSat. Therefore, the objective of this research within the NASA CubeSat Launch Initiative is to design an effective system to maintain the operating temperature of the CubeSat radiator. As part of the current CubeSat design, a system of fins, coated with phase change material (PCM), has been created to actuate outwards when heat disperses from inside the radio. The fins are coated with phase change material (PCM). Phase change materials are exceptionally effective for their ability to store thermal energy and will remove heat from the CubeSat when its fins are exposed to the environment. We were able to achieve at least 45 degrees of actuation through the use of nickel-titanium wires. Nickel-titanium is a shape memory alloy, meaning it can be manipulated into any desired shape or form and can revert to its original form when heated. Within the CubeSat application, the heat applied to the nitinol wire drives the PCM-coated fin outward. We developed our plaster molds in the lab and used kilns to train the wires reaching temperatures over 800 degrees Celsius. We were able to test our prototype within a vacuum chamber using electrical feed-throughs, thermocouples, and polyamide heaters to see if our fin would actuate under conditions most similar to those of an actual CubeSat. As verified through laboratory testing, the nitinol wire can be geometrically manipulated and then returned to its original configuration following exposure to heat. Additionally, the nitinol was strong enough to actuate the fins when excessive heat was applied. To conclude, the phase change material opens up endless opportunities for innovation within satellites and spacecraft innovations, supporting the actuation and movement of complex technology without the traditional equipment.

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  Design for Discordant Chronic Comorbidities (DCCs) Health Management Application

  Jonathan Hooper, Zoe Sadowski

  Patients with discordant chronic comorbidities (DCCs) have multiple conditions that have unrelated and/or conflicting treatment plans. These patients are often required to consult multiple different specialists across health networks. Because of this, DCCs patients have great difficulty in managing their conditions. Advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) have created opportunities to enhance DCCs patient care. This ongoing study explores the usability, user-centered design, and functionality of a patient-facing health application to help DCCs patients manage their conditions. We are using an iterative design process with 6 phases: (i) Create a storyboard, (ii) Create physical and digital prototypes, (iii) interview 3 (N = 3) doctors to get feedback on the prototype. (iv) revise prototype, (v) interview 5 (N = 5) patients to get feedback on the revised prototype, and (vi) finalize prototype for development. Our application implements 5 features: (i) Daily Check-In, (ii) Goal-Setting, (iii) Health Trends, (iv) AI-Generated Medication Suggestion, and (v) Calendar. We found that the application needs to provide consistent engagement to motivate the user to continue documenting their health. Feedback also informed us that the application should work with pre-existing resources such as electronic health records to improve documentation further and encourage ease of use. The future of this study should incorporate functions specific to DCCs such as detecting complications in a patient's treatment plan. Future design iterations plan to use gathered feedback while implementing new features to further motivate patients to use the application. Our research advances patient care outside of a clinical setting by encouraging patients to be more proactive about their health.

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  Design in Motion: Posters, Film, and Interactive UX

  Jacob Owens

  In today’s digital landscape, the power of visual storytelling extends far beyond a single medium. My portfolio showcases a blend of graphic design, motion storytelling, and interactive UX/UI design, highlighting my ability to create meaningful visual experiences.This exhibit features poster designs that explore composition, branding, and visual communication; short films and video projects that bring narratives to life through cinematography, editing, and motion graphics; and Circle, an AI-driven relationship assistant app, which reimagines how technology can foster human connection through interactive design.Through these works, I aim to demonstrate the seamless integration of static, motion, and interactive media—from the clarity of a well-designed poster to the depth of a short film and the engagement of an AI-powered app. Visitors are encouraged to explore the interplay of art, technology, and storytelling, experiencing firsthand how design can shape emotion, conversation, and connection in the digital world.

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  Design of a Centripetal Force Lesson Using Evidence-Based Physics Education Research

  Claire Hogshead

  Extensive research has been conducted in the area of Physics Education Research (PER). PER is defined as focused inquiry into what happens as students struggle to grasp and use physics concepts. This project summarizes some of the key findings of PER and how these findings can be applied to high school classroom instruction. Using PER and pedagogical principles, I designed a lecture and online laboratory exercise on centripetal force for high school physics students. I also developed a pre- and post-test to assess student learning outcomes. Students learning about centripetal forces often struggle with misconceptions such as the apparent “centrifugal” force and the belief that an object moving at a constant speed in a circular path is not accelerating. In this proposed activity, students will gain an understanding of centripetal forces using exercises that involve identifying the centripetal force, performing calculations using the centripetal force equation, and graphing results to identify the relationships among variables in that equation. The intent of this activity is that students will be able to identify the net inward force that provides the centripetal acceleration of an object, recognize that the centripetal force is not a unique force, explain the feeling of an apparent centrifugal (outward) force, and perform calculations using the centripetal force and acceleration equations. The pre- and post-test consists of multiple-choice questions aimed to assess whether these learning objectives were achieved.

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  Design of a Pipe Inspection and Remediation Soft Robot

  Simon Baker, Daniel Gubser, Adomas Mazeika

  Soft robotics is a rapidly evolving field that is advancing the development of surgical devices, prosthetics, and robotic gripper systems. In this work, we explore the design of a soft robot capable of crawling along pipes for inspection and remediation purposes. A common challenge in the rehabilitation of older buildings is the inspection and clearing of existing sewer lines for potential reuse. Frequently, blockages prevent these pipes from being returned to service. When such obstructions are present, the typical solution often involves demolition and reconstruction of floors, walls, and plumbing. A device that could navigate old pipes—capable of turning corners, adjusting to varying diameters, and performing tasks within the pipe—would be extremely valuable. This work presents the modeling, rapid prototyping, assembly, and testing of several key components of the pipe-crawling soft robotic system.

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  Detective Fiction and Anti-Intellectualism at the Fin de Siècle

  Allie Thiele

  At the turn of the century there was an increase in social concern surrounding intellectualism and the role of the academic in a rapidly industrializing world. While anti-intellectualism is addressed in a variety of literary texts, detective fiction offers a unique insight into the emergent anxieties surrounding intellectualism through its stark representations of good and evil. The Sign of the Four, published in 1890 by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and The Man Who Was Thursday, published in 1908 by G.K. Chesterton, both address the increased cynicism surrounding intellectualism. The Sign of the Four is also riddled with concerns surrounding reverse-colonization, which is the fear that the colonizer (Britain) will be invaded by the colonized. I argue that Conan Doyle attempts to justify the work of the intellectual by proposing that they are necessary to prevent reverse-colonization; while Chesterton critiques the idea that intellectuals are openly planning the downfall of Western society. Chesterton and Conan Doyle’s different approaches to addressing the fears surrounding intellectualism highlight the pervasive distrust of the intellectual through two decades and the efforts of literary authors to emphasize the continued importance of intellectuals in modern times.

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  Determining potential connectivity deficits between the Cerebellum and the thalamus in Ts65Dn mouse model of Down syndrome

  Mir Abbas Raza

  Down Syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by triplication in human chromosome 21 and characterised by alteration in cognitive and motor behaviour. The cerebellum - a key brain region that regulates gait, motor coordination, and adaptive learning - has an altered developmental trajectory in Down Syndrome, with preclinical mouse models mirroring these phenotypes. During development, the cerebellum not only forms its internal circuitry but also forms an extensive connectome with other major regions of the brain including the thalamus. However, potential connectivity deficits between the cerebellum and its connections with other regions of the brain in DS remain unknown. In this study, Potential changes in cellular density of cerebellar nuclei were assessed using immunohistochemistry (IHC), and the alteration in neural circuitry was quantified using dual Adeno-Associated Viral (AAV) injections combined with IHC and image analysis using the QUINT workflow. At postnatal day 30 (P30), no significant differences were observed in cellular density of osteopontin positive cells in the cerebellar nuclei between Euploid and Trisomic Ts65Dn mice and quantification for the same in developmental stage P45 is underway. An anterograde AAV expressing GFP was injected into the interposed cerebellar nuclei, while a retrograde AAV expressing Cre-recombinase was injected into the lateral-ventral thalamus and successfully labeled connections between these areas. Co-localization of fluorescent markers allowed for visualization of cerebellar-thalamic connectivity at P45 (n=4 each Euploid and Trisomic). Analysis of these injections is underway with experiments planned to extend assessment to later developmental stages to determine whether connectivity disruptions emerge over time as well as assessment of functional connectivity using Fiber photometry. Understanding these developmental circuit alterations will help elucidate the mechanisms underlying behavioral deficits in DS and may provide avenues for targeted interventions to address motor and cognitive deficits in affected individuals.

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  Developmental Variation in Keratodont Counts of American Bullfrog Tadpoles

  Nicholas Canfield, Arianna Olivares

  Tadpole oral morphology plays a crucial role in feeding and development, yet its structural variations across developmental stages remain poorly understood. In particular, keratodonts—keratinized, tooth-like structures—are integral to tadpole feeding but have not been extensively analyzed for their consistency within and between developmental stages. This study examines the relationship between developmental stage and keratodont count in Rana catesbeiana (American bullfrog) tadpoles. Specimens were collected from metroparks in Dayton, Ohio, and assigned a developmental stage using the Gosner staging system. Their mouthparts were photographed under a microscope, and keratodonts were systematically counted. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess patterns of variation within and across stages. Understanding keratodont development may provide insights into the functional morphology of tadpoles and broader ecological and evolutionary implications.

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  Development and Validation of General Greenhouse Model for the University of Dayton

  Jacob Brenner

  The use of a greenhouse model is essential to ensuring that any greenhouse design presents the best value that is possible within that region of the world. Often times, greenhouse models within research papers are created, with varying levels of detail, but the models themselves are often not shared openly. This problem can be solved via some of the greenhouse models that have been made openly available, but unfortunately, the vast majority of these require a subscription, either to the model itself, or to a software that the model was built on. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to create a clear open source model, created in the programming language Python, that is published alongside this paper. This model was validated through data collected for a short period from late August to early October of 2024 within two greenhouses in the area of Dayton, Ohio. The data was collected via temperature and humidity loggers placed within 3D printed solar shields that were previously validated, while the two greenhouses contained two different environments, one with vegetation and no electronic equipment, and one with no vegetation and a fan present.

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  Development of a novel atmospheric chloride detector

  Hannah Buchanan

  Silver is often used as an indicator in atmospheric corrosion studies to better understand the effect of environmental chemistry on corrosion severity. A common experimental method involves the exposure of silver coupons at environments of interest, allowing corrosion products to form, followed by coulometric reduction analysis. However, this type of analysis makes a key and often overlooked assumption: that the composition of the corrosion film does not change after initial formation. This assumption of chemical stability of the corrosion product has not been extensively studied and does not account for possible chemical changes within the corrosion products due to ongoing environmental exposure or storage conditions.In the first phase of the study, coulometric reduction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to study multi-component lab-grown silver corrosion product films, which reveled differences in the corrosion product films based on component deposition order. This was inferred to be due to a substitution reaction within the corrosion product film which occurred during exposure to other electrolytes during the deposition of the subsequent films.In the second phase, salt spray was used to demonstrate that the amount of substitution reaction that occurs from Ag2O to AgCl is proportional to the extent of exposure to NaCl. Ag2O films were electrochemically grown and exposed to salt spray under varied conditions. This demonstrates the applicability of silver oxide films for the quantitative detection of atmospheric chloride deposition in a new way.

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  Diabetes: Its Impact on the Hispanic Community

  Jemly Perez

  In 2022, Hispanic adults were 60% more likely than non-Hispanic white adults to be diagnosed with diabetes by a doctor. As the largest minority in the U.S, Hispanics are the most affected by diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes. In the Hispanic community, more than half of Hispanics suffer from type 2 diabetes and other diseases such as kidney disease, some even being hospitalized for treatment of diabetes-related end-stage renal disease. Hispanics face difficult circumstances such as language barriers, limited access to health insurance, high rates of complications such as obesity, and cultural diets that on the surface appear harmless but overuse can have severe consequences. Therefore, this study will explore these factors to develop initiatives and aid in prevention in the Hispanic community.

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  Dietary specialization of two benthic fishes in the Lake Erie Basin: the native Common Logperch and the invasive Round Goby

  Emerson Amy

  The introduction of Round Goby (Neogobius melanostomus) to the benthic ecosystem in Lake Erie and its surrounding tributaries has already had significant effects on the native fishes in this system. To measure these effects I looked at diet specialization and diet overlap as potential sources of competition between Gobies and native fish. The Common Logperch (Percina caprodes) is a member of the benthic community in Lake Erie and its surrounding tributaries. Its similar size class, feeding morphology, diet, and range makes the Common Logperch a good model for determining the effects of invasive Round Gobies in the Lake Erie Basin. This research aims to identify the contemporary foraging mode of P. caprodes and N. melanostomus, determine if the foraging mode of the Common Logperch has changed since the Round Goby Invasion, and calculate proportional similarity (PS) between modern Logperch and Goby diets as a measure of diet overlap. Fish were caught from seining, or taken from Stone Laboratory’s teaching collection. They were dissected so stomach contents could be identified and benthic macroinvertebrate samples were collected to represent the resource base. Chironomids were found to be a preference in both diets in Lake Erie and the Portage River. Hydropsychids were common in both diets in the Portage River, while Common Logperch in this system also selected for multiple families of mayflies. Logperch diet has changed since Gobies arrived as the Small Square-Gilled Mayflies (Caenidae) has left the Portage River resource base and is thus absent from the diet. High diet overlap (PS= 0.81-0.93) was found between both species, but high resource abundance does not indicate competitive exclusion occurring.

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  Does baiting influence deer estimates within Metroparks?

  Brooke Owens

  Many wildlife studies use bait to attract animals, making it easier to observe, capture, or monitor them for research purposes. However, bait can also alter animal behavior, attract non-target species, create dependency on human-provided food, and increase the risk of spreading diseases, especially among deer populations. This study teamed up with Five Rivers MetroParks to evaluate the influence of using bait to estimate white-tailed deer densities in MetroPark protected areas through the use of bait stations and trail cameras. The experiment was conducted over two four-week periods: one in the summer of 2023 and one in the summer of 2024. During this time, cameras were deployed for two weeks with bait and two weeks without bait at sixteen different sites. The objective was to assess whether bait was necessary to achieve accurate deer counts. Camera trap photos were processed to identify species and record counts, followed by a comprehensive data analysis to compare detection rates and species presence across the two conditions. This study aims to determine if the addition of bait influences deer detection rates, providing insights into the use of baiting as a tool for wildlife monitoring as well as the possibility of stopping bait use due to the potential risks and issues associated with it.

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  Do Schools Have Adequate Accommodations for Anxiety?

  Anna Murray

  There are numerous accommodations identified for students with anxiety. These include presentation, response, timing, environment, and organizational accommodations. Although accommodations are identified, there is minimal research on which accommodations are most beneficial and for which students. This lack of research, identified in the literature, makes it difficult to answer the question: Do schools have adequate accommodations for students with anxiety?

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  Drosophila CRC models to study tumor-promoting signaling interactions

  Venolia Adjei, Sydney Anderson, Brandon Clark, Maria El Biri, Evelyn Krebs, Edmund O'Rourke, Arushi Rai, Olivia Stolly, Kate Weber

  Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the 2nd leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the US, with an estimated 53,000 deaths in 2024. Mutations in the tumor suppressor gene APC, the proto-oncogene KRAS, and the dual tumor suppressor and proto-oncogene TP53 frequently co-occur in human CRC, underscoring its heterogeneity. The DNA damage repair pathway, mediated by the transcription factor p53, promotes cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in response to genotoxic stress. The Ras-MAPK pathway, regulated by the signal transduction protein Ras, triggers cellular proliferation and growth when active. The Wnt pathway, negatively regulated by Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC), likewise promotes cellular proliferation and growth through the activity of the transcription factor beta-catenin. The Hippo pathway and JNK pathway have also been found to crosstalk extensively with these pathways, regulating cellular proliferation, cell cycle progression, growth, and cell death. While the individual contributions of these signaling pathways in CRC have been well-documented, additional research is needed to better understand their interactions during tumorigenesis and tumor development. Thus, this study seeks to establish one-hit, two-hit, and three-hit models of CRC in Drosophila and to characterize them for cell cycle defects and altered cell signaling. To generate tumors, MARCM clones were made using escargot-GAL4 to drive the expression of dominant-negative p53, oncogenic RasG12V, and/or loss-of-function APC specifically in intestinal stem cells in early larvae and adult flies. Subsequent phenotypes and gene expression patterns were then assessed via dissection and immunohistochemistry. Here, we present preliminary data from these experiments and our progress in developing preclinical models of CRC in Drosophila.

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  Echoes of the Arena: The Lasting Impact of Ancient Stadiums on Today’s Sports Culture

  Oliver Thimling

  This paper examines the evolution of stadiums and spectator sports, focusing on the influence of ancient arenas on the design and culture of modern sports venues. Beginning with the grand structures of ancient civilizations, such as the Roman Colosseum and Greek amphitheaters, the study explores how these early stadiums were designed to host large audiences for competitive and often theatrical events. These ancient venues not only served as architectural marvels but were also central to the social and cultural fabric of their societies. The paper then traces the transformation of these ancient designs into modern stadiums, analyzing how architectural advancements, technology, and the commercialization of sport have shaped the spectator experience today. The research draws on a variety of sources, including scholarly books, journal articles, and firsthand accounts gathered from virtual tours of both ancient and contemporary stadiums. By comparing ancient and contemporary sports venues, this study highlights the ways in which the fundamental purpose of stadiums is to entertain, unite, and inspire. It has remained consistent, even as the nature of sports and global fandoms has evolved. Through this historical lens, the paper offers insights into the lasting legacy of ancient sports venues and their continuing influence on modern entertainment and stadium design.

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  Educating Diverse Student Populations in Inclusive Settings

  Ava Franke, Gabriella Hudetz, Carly Olson

  The landscape of education is shifting to become more pluralistic with students who are culturally and linguistically diverse. As future teacher educators, our project aimed to create a set of resources for K-12 educators that would support culturally responsive teaching strategies for all students especially culturally and linguistically diverse students with a focus on the ethnic, cultural, and linguistic diversity in schools. Our work is grounded in critical theory research with frameworks such as Global Education, Freire's Pedagogy of the Oppressed, and Culturally Relevant Teaching with the Marianist Social Justice at the forefront of the work. We focused on collectivism where multiple stakeholders are included and actively engaged in educating our students as we sustain their cultures and communities. Teachers across the globe need to find strategies to address classroom curriculum instruction, environment and to empower and engage students in the classroom if we plan to foster students who are citizens of the world.

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  Effects of propionate on Listeria monocytogenes fitness and pathogenesis in cold temperatures

  Jadyn Nirschl

  Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne bacterium that has been repeatedly shown to have the ability to grow and survive under cold conditions, potentially increasing the risk of food contamination. To prevent food spoilage during cold storage, antimicrobial agents, such as propionate, are frequently added to inhibit microbial growth. As a result, L. monocytogenes could be exposed to propionate at refrigeration temperatures. However, how propionate affects L. monocytogenes fitness under cold conditions and subsequent infection is not currently known. In this study, we investigated the effects of cold propionate exposure on L. monocytogenes susceptibility to nisin (a common food additive) and lysozyme (a host degradative enzyme) as well as pathogenesis through listeriolysin O production and intracellular infections in RAW264.7 macrophages. In general, optical density of L. monocytogenes cultures did not decrease over a 7-day period incubation in the cold. However, the presence of propionate (25 mM) resulted in a significant decrease in OD after 7 days in the cold. Moreover, cold exposure altered L. monocytogenes cell morphology and increased susceptibility to nisin without changing susceptibility to lysozyme. While the presence of propionate did not affect LLO production during cold storage, cold pretreatment significantly increased bacterial entry into the macrophages. In summary, both cold temperature and propionate seem to influence L. monocytogenes fitness and pathogenesis to varying degrees, highlighting the need to better understand synergistic activities between cold temperatures and food additives. Additional work is needed to further elucidate mechanisms underlying the observed responses and provides recommendations for food safety.

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  Effects of Step-rate Manipulation on Running Economy at a Performance Pace in Elite Male Distance Runners

  Noah Clemens

  Background: Running economy (RE) is a key performance variable for distance runners, as greater efficiency improves performance. Step-rate (SR) represents the number of steps taken per minute while running and is commonly manipulated to improve running economy or reduce injury risk. Research shows that highly trained individuals are not self-selecting their most economical step-rate when running at slow speeds, but no available research has examined highly trained individuals running near competition velocities.Purpose: This study aimed to determine if highly trained male distance runners self-optimize their SR at an ecologically valid performance pace.Methods: Twelve highly trained male participants 22.5+/-3.7 (M+/-SD) years of age completed this study. The protocol consisted of nine 4-minute trials of running at 4.96 m/s, with two minute rest periods. In the first trial, participants self-selected their SR. In the following eight trials, a metronome cued different SR. Oxygen consumption (VO2) was collected for each trial. VO2 was plotted against SR and a line of best fit was used to estimate each participant’s most economical SR.Results: Eight participants were included in the analysis. Optimal SR could not be determined for four due to an inability to match a wide range of cued SRs. Participants’ selected SR (M+/-SD; 186+/-7.56 steps/minute) was higher than their optimal SR (M+/-SD; 179.15+/-9.07 steps/minute); however, this difference was not significant (p=0.1417). Participants were more economical at their optimal SR than their self-selected SR, but not significantly so (p=0.07476). The mean difference of 0.7665 mL/kg/min represented a 1.3% improvement in RE at the optimal SR.Conclusion: Our results suggest highly trained runners do not self-select their optimal SR. The 1.3% improvement in running economy leads to an expected improvement in race velocity of roughly 1%. This equates to roughly a 30 second difference over the half-marathon distance – a meaningful difference to competitors.

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  Electrical reversible switching of Phase change materials

  Osama Rana

  Phase change materials (PCMs) undergo a reversible solid-state transition between amorphous and crystalline states upon heating by applying electrical or optical pulses. While crystallization can be induced by heating on a hot plate, amorphization requires heating above the melting point followed by rapid quenching. This study presents the design and fabrication of a microdevice enabling reversible switching through electrical pulses. GST pixels are deposited on a thin film metal strip to facilitate phase transitions. Electrical current will pass through metal thin film strip ,which will heat pixel via joule heating. To optimize device performance, we conducted resistivity measurements to select a suitable heater material and determined the optimal heater thickness for efficient impedance matching between the electrical pulse source and the device.

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  El estigma de la salud mental en la comunidad hispana/latina en EE.UU/The Stigma of Mental Health in the Hispanic/Latinx Community in the U.S

  Annabelle Karch, Ana Martinez Muller

  Mental health remains a complex and often overlooked issue within the Hispanic/Latinx community in the U.S., shaped by a combination of deeply rooted cultural perspectives, socioeconomic realities, and structural barriers. Traditional beliefs and religious influences continue to define attitudes toward mental well-being, sometimes discouraging open discussions or professional intervention. At the same time, disparities in healthcare access, language barriers, and financial constraints further complicate the path to adequate support. This presentation delves into the multifaceted nature of these challenges, examining how they shape individual and collective experiences. By exploring the broader implications of untreated mental health conditions and highlighting initiatives to increase awareness and accessibility, we seek to contribute to a deeper understanding of the issue. Through a careful analysis of research in both English and Spanish, it will shed light on the evolving discourse around mental health in this community and the ongoing efforts to foster more inclusive care.

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  Empirical Research Presentations in Economics

  Ryan Andersen, Andrew Bergin, Emily Bruns, Peter Burke, Mark Burns, Allison Caines, Luke Canan, Thomas Cloran, Patrick Conlon, Rowan Conroy, Michael Cooney, Dylan Crouch, Ashley Crumb, Aidan Cseh, Michael Dahill, Katie Dailey, Dylan Davidson, Thomas Fogarty, Kyle Gewinner, Joseph Giagrande, Kathleen Hattrup, Carson Impastato, Ayden Johnson, Tyler Juliano, Shelby LaMattina, Jake Medvetz, Kevin O'Connell, Meryem Ozcan, Samuel Peters, Maurice Reilly, Julia Reinker, Cady Rhea, Eric Rice, Mason Robbins, Evan Scholz, Benjamin Smith, Andrew Trybus, Daniel Turpel, Charles Valentincic, Caleb Webb

  Four years of coursework culminate in a written and oral presentation of an empirical research project during the senior capstone course. Students apply economic theory and econometric techniques to analyze data in order to answer an original research question.

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  Empowering Innovation: Trailblazers in STEM

  Vishal Ayyappan Pillai, Piyush Dugge, Sathwik Juvvadi, Jahnavi Kurapati, Shivani Mantoo, Dhana Lakshmi Pilli, Ashwini Rathnapuram, Rohan Rajpal Raut, Hardik Maheshbhai Solanki, Lilly Tiriveedhi

  The fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) have historically been shaped by groundbreaking innovations and pioneering minds. However, despite their invaluable contributions, women in STEM continue to face systemic challenges, including gender bias, underrepresentation, and limited access to leadership roles. This symposium aims to highlight the achievements of trailblazing women in STEM, the barriers they have overcome, and the transformative impact of diversity in driving innovation and progress.Our discussion will delve into the historical milestones set by women in STEM, from early scientific pioneers to contemporary leaders who are reshaping the industry. By examining key success stories, we will identify the common challenges faced by women in these domains, such as societal stereotypes, the gender pay gap, and the lack of representation in leadership positions. Furthermore, we will explore strategic initiatives—including mentorship programs, policy reforms, and corporate inclusivity efforts—that have been instrumental in fostering a more diverse and equitable STEM ecosystem.A critical component of this session will be an analysis of how organizations can actively support and empower women in STEM. We will present data-driven insights on the business case for gender diversity, showcasing how inclusive workplaces lead to greater innovation, enhanced problem-solving, and improved organizational performance. Additionally, we will discuss actionable recommendations for companies, academic institutions, and policymakers to cultivate an environment where women can thrive as leaders, innovators, and changemakers.By shedding light on the stories of trailblazing women and the ongoing efforts to bridge the gender gap, this symposium aims to inspire a collective commitment to breaking barriers and building a future where talent and ambition, regardless of gender, are fully recognized and nurtured.

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  Engineered Inter-Flake Interactions for Continuous MXene Films

  Kennedy Brown

  MXenes are an emerging class ultra-thin materials (<5 molecular>layers), also known as two-dimensional or 2D materials, that have garnered significant interest across various research domains due to their exceptional physical properties, including high conductivity (> 8 kS cm-1), electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding (>58 kdB cm2 g-1), and tunable hydrophilicity. To tailor these properties, MXene films can be fabricated using a layer-by-layer approach, enabling precise control, enhanced stability, and tunability of the materials system. The method of film development, such as drop casting, interfacial assembly, or spray coating, is critical in this assembly process and has a significant impact on electronic and optical properties.Currently, there is limited research directly comparing the layer-by-layer assembly of different film formation methods for Ti3C2Tx MXene. This study aims to characterize and standardize these methods for future MXene development, including comparisons between MXene flakes and scrolls. Additionally, we demonstrate that dopamine not only binds effectively to our system but also enables adjustment of interlayer spacing, as determined by AFM height measurements, thereby influencing the overall properties of the thin film.

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  Enhancement of biofilm in Listeria monocytogenes by benzalkonium chloride depends on the amount of the inoculum

  Sydney Herzog, Kelly McNamara

  Listeria monocytogenes is a food-borne pathogen that is typically isolated in food environments. Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) is a common cleaner that is used in both medical and food-processing environments. How BAC impacts Listeria monocytogenes biofilm formation is not entirely known. Previous data from our lab has shown that concentrations of BAC higher than 0.1% enhances biofilm formation of Listeria monocytogenes. We hypothesized that bacterial lysing is the main reason for this enhancement. To test our hypothesis, we used different starting concentrations of Listeria monocytogenes culture and expected that higher bacteria inoculum would result in higher biofilm formation. Using a standard microplate biofilm assay and crystal violet staining, we showed a concentration-dependent formation of biofilm where higher amounts of Listeria monocytogenes led to higher biofilm formation, regardless if BAC was added. The BAC enhancement of biofilm formation was reduced with less L. monocytogenes inoculum. These results suggest that the bacterial abundance is a highly relevant factor in the effects of BAC on bacterial biofilm formation.