GENDER ESSENTIALISM INCREASES DISPOSITIONAL ATTRIBUTION IN ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS

Previous literature has demonstrated negative consequences of social essentialist beliefs in enhancing social stereotyping and decreasing intergroup contacts. The current study aims to investigate how gender essentialism influences attributions during interpersonal conflict, and how this impact may be moderated by other factors such as relationship satisfaction. Eighty-three undergraduate students attending a public university in Southeast USA read scenarios that may cause conflict in romantic relationship and rated the likelihood of various explanations for the partner’s behavior. Participants also rated how satisfied they were with their current or most recent romantic relationship and their agreement with gender essentialist statements. We found that stronger gender essentialist beliefs were associated with higher tendency of dispositional attribution for partner’s behavior, especially in negative scenarios that would increase conflict. Those who were more satisfied with their relationship resorted to less instances of dispositional attribution within and outside of conflict-inducing scenarios. Additionally, couple satisfaction acted as a buffer for the relationship between gender essentialism and dispositional attribution. Results from the current study suggest that gender essentialism has an impact on interpersonal conflict and can influence the escalation of a conflict situation

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND EFFICACY IN MENTAL HEALTH CLINICAL TRIALS

To develop and refine mental health interventions, it’s critical that we assess their significance in clinical trials and allow comparisons between various studies and methods. Consistency in reporting clinical significance and efficacy ensures that we can determine if the intervention makes a meaningful impact on participants’ lives and facilitates progress in the field. This study aimed to determine how many clinical trials for psychology evaluate and apply both of these in a quantifiable way, specifically focusing on standardized mean difference (SMD) for standardized units and reliable change index (RCI) for clinical significance. Our systematic review included 4 prominent journals that published clinical trials in 2020-2023 and recorded whether they reported these measures. We found that studies were inconsistent in reporting clinical significance and, when reported, methods varied greatly. Results from 225 published clinical trials in psychology revealed that 55.6% of the studies reported an SMD and just 22.5% included the RCI. There were 8 distinct methods used to compute the SMD and 7 distinct methods used for RCI. This study highlights the need for more consistency in clinical trials to measure and report standardized effect sizes and clinical significance. Standardizing these practices would provide a more accurate and detailed look at how well interventions work in studies and improve comparability between clinical trials

EFFECT OF TREMATODE METACERCARIAL INFECTION ON LOCOMOTION BY LARVAL SALAMANDERS IN NORTHEAST GEORGIA

Because many amphibians have suffered precipitous declines in recent decades, a great deal of research has been focused on the effects of emerging fungal and viral pathogens. However, relatively little attention has been given to the effects of macroparasites including trematodes, especially trematodes that do not produce obvious morphological abnormalities in their hosts. In the southern Appalachian Mountains of the US, a trematode currently assigned to the species Metagonimoides oregonensis, commonly utilizes lungless salamanders (Caudata: Plethodontidae) as second intermediate hosts, where metacercariae encyst within the musculature. The effects of this parasite have been presumed to be neutral because heavily infected salamanders survive. However, subtle impacts can be consequential to long-term physiological performance and survival. Metacercarial infections of the musculature in fish have been reported to negatively affect swimming performance; therefore, we tested the hypothesis that infection by this trematode species affects locomotor performance in aquatic larvae of the trematode’s primary second intermediate host, the Southern Black-bellied Salamander, Desmognathus amphileucus. We compared locomotion of a series of infected larvae, whose metacercarial cysts are easily seen through the translucent ventral wall of the trunk, with uninfected larvae by placing them in 1-m troughs of water and allowing them to move freely until they stopped. Our measured variable was time spent walking. Using non-parametric (Kaplan-Meier) survival analysis, we determined that infected salamanders stopped significantly sooner than uninfected ones (χ2 = 4.715, P = 0.299). Because infected salamanders move less, the presence of this parasite may contribute to genetic divergence in these salamanders by slowing dispersal and concomitant gene flow. Our results suggest that macroparasites can potentially have significant impacts on host biology even in the absence of such obvious effects as morphological abnormalities

LINKING DHEAS DIURNAL RHYTHMS AND SLEEP: EVIDENCE OF ASSOCIATIONS WITH SLEEP DISTURBANCES AND SUBJECTIVE SLEEP RATINGS

The androgen hormone, Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and its sulfate, DHEAS, is a biomarker of various cognitive and health outcomes, and its diurnal rhythm has been linked to sleep quality. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between DHEAS diurnal values and specific sleep quality measures. Participants (Mage = 50.3 years, SD = 19.33, range = 20-80, N = 183, 104 females) first completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI); participants subsequently completed a modified PSQI immediately after waking for 10 consecutive days, which allowed for a Daily Subjective Sleep Quality (DSSQ) rating that was then averaged across all days. Additionally, participants provided saliva samples seven times a day for 10 consecutive days. The saliva was assayed for DHEAS. Daily DHEAS levels were averaged across the 10 days to provide a Mean DHEAS value. Diurnal Fluctuation of DHEAS, operationalized as the daily Peak-Nadir Difference (PND) averaged across all 10 days, was also extracted from the DHEAS data. Mean DHEAS and Component 5 of the PSQI (Sleep Disturbance) were significantly negatively correlated (p \u3c 0.01), such that fewer sleep disturbances were correlated with higher Mean DHEAS levels. Hierarchical linear regression showed that Sleep Disturbances significantly predicted Mean DHEAS (Model Comparison Approach: p \u3c 0.01; Likelihood Ratio Test further: p \u3c 0 .01). Additionally, DSSQ and PND were positively correlated (p \u3c 0.05). Hierarchical linear regression showed that PND significantly predicted DSSQ (Model Comparison Approach: p \u3c 0.01, Likelihood Ratio Test: p \u3c 0.01). These results uphold previous literature, and we identified specific attributes of sleep quality (i.e. Sleep Disturbances) which predict Mean DHEAS. We also have classified new diurnal dynamics (i.e. Diurnal Fluctuation) which correspond to DSSQ. These results offer more specific insight into the relationship between DHEAS and sleep quality and may inform the clinical application of DHEA

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE AND PFAS CONTAMINATION IN GEORGIA: SOCIOECONOMIC DISPARITIES AND DRINKING WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS

Environmental justice (EJ) research has highlighted the disproportionate exposure of low-income communities and communities of color to environmental hazards, including poor drinking water quality. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), synthetic chemicals known for their persistence and adverse health impacts, represent a growing concern in the context of EJ. Exposure to PFAS through drinking water has raised alarms about inequities, as contamination sources often align with socioeconomic and racial disparities. To address PFAS health risks, the U.S. EPA implemented new regulations in 2024, establishing Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for six PFAS and a Hazard Index for mixtures, aiming to protect vulnerable populations. In Georgia, PFAS contamination is linked to industrial, military, and transportation activities, with significant contributors such as the carpet industry in Dalton, airports, military installations, and landfills. These sources have led to contamination in drinking water systems, legal disputes, and increased water treatment costs, further burdening communities already facing socioeconomic challenges. However, most prior EJ studies regarding PFAS have focused on national trends or county-level data, leaving a knowledge gap regarding local correlations between PFAS contamination, socioeconomic factors, and community demographics. This study addresses that gap by analyzing city-level PFAS data (UCMR5), socioeconomic indicators, and contamination sources across Georgia. Our findings reveal that cities with detectable PFAS contamination in drinking water have lower median household incomes and a higher proportion of residents from communities of color compared to statewide averages. These results suggest systemic disparities in the siting of PFAS sources and drinking water exposures, underscoring the urgent need for equitable environmental policies. By integrating EJ frameworks with PFAS contamination analysis, this study provides actionable insights for state and local governments to prioritize mitigation strategies that address the disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations, thereby advancing environmental equity in Georgia

CONSTRUCTING A HANGING DROP OSMOMETER**

We designed an osmometer based on a hanging drop design by Weatherley (1960) for measuring osmolarities of small volume, botanical samples. An osmometer measures solute concentrations and can be used to indirectly quantify interactions between solutes.  We constructed an osmometer prototype that we are displaying by the poster. It is constructed from gas-tight syringes, capillary tubing, and 3D printed supports. Changes in solution volume will be measured with a cell phone camera, magnifying lenses, and image analysis software. We are working to generate calibration curves for solutions of known osmolarity. Upon successful calibration of the osmometer, we will be able to measure interactions between osmolytes and native proteins and nucleic acids. Equivalent measurements have been limited in solute choice and concentration and temperature ranges by the constraints of commercially available osmometers. This instrument has the potential to permit measurements over a range of temperatures (through submerging the apparatus in a water bath or temperature-controlled chamber) and between solutes like osmolytes and lipid membranes—all things that are impossible with current, commercial instruments. These measurements of interactions between biological molecules will extend the power of predictive and analytical models used to help answer many biochemical questions

MACROINVERTEBRATES AND STREAM HEALTH

Macroinvertebrates are small, spineless organisms that play a key role in the functionality of stream ecosystems. These organisms play a crucial role in cycling nutrients and organic matter throughout a stream, while also serving as an important bioindicator of the stream’s overall health. This research focused on using macroinvertebrates from various locations throughout the stream ecosystem to determine how the water quality of the stream changed over its course through a wetland environment using biotic index measurements. The downstream site was predicted to have a lower water quality than the upstream site based on the addition of nutrients due various impoundments along the course of the stream and inputs from beaver activity. Previous research stated that macroinvertebrates were found in higher abundances in streams with a higher velocity and a rocky channel substrate, therefore, locations were chosen based on these qualifications to ensure the largest number of macroinvertebrates were collected at each site. To conduct this research, three sites were chosen, one in the upstream area, one in the midstream area and one in the downstream area of the stream. At each site, three organic matter samples were collected and sorted for macroinvertebrates. From the collected data, the biotic index for each site and for each sample upstream and downstream were calculated using the Georgia Adopt-a-Stream protocols. The biotic index measurements showed good water quality at the upstream site and a fair water quality at the midstream and downstream sites. A Wilcoxon test was then performed to compare the biotic indexes of the upstream and downstream sites, and the p-value indicated there to be no significant difference between the two sites, suggesting there is no significant change in the water quality over the course of the stream. This indicates that activities occurring along the reach of stream studied are not significant enough to impact overall stream quality as indicated by macroinvertebrate distributions

THEMATIC ANALYSIS OF THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF VETERAN IDENTITY: CONCLUSIONS FROM COHORT 1

Our study employed photovoice and lyric analysis, two qualitative community-based participatory action research methods, in a cohort design to investigate how Veterans define their post-service identities. Photovoice enables Veterans to share their personal stories through photographs that represent their identities, while lyric analysis allows them to reflect on songs that resonate with their experiences. Veterans in our first cohort (N = 4) responded to the prompt, What does being a Veteran mean to you? by taking photos and selecting songs that reflected aspects of their identities. They then participated in semi-structured interviews to discuss the significance of these images and lyrics. The interviews varied in length and allowed each Veteran to explore their experiences in a meaningful way. Transcripts from these interviews, along with the lyrics of their chosen songs and other relevant artifacts (e.g., journal notes, research notes), were analyzed using a phenomenological approach to identify themes related to Veteran identity. Member-checking, where participants reviewed and discussed the results with researchers, was used to ensure external validity. Preliminary findings reveal common identity themes such as honor, integrity, pride, isolation/loneliness, duty, sacrifice, humanity, identity conflict, and loyalty. Despite the high degree of commonality in these themes, the research highlights that Veteran identity is not monolithic. Each participant processed their experiences through a unique lens, even with shared military culture. These methods build trust between historically exploited and excluded groups in science and researchers, amplifying marginalized voices. As a final exhibition, we hosted an interactive gallery featuring Veterans\u27 photos and songs to share their experiences with the public. The event included live performances and displays of highlighted lyrics and photos. Our project empowered Veterans to share their voices and helped rebuild trust between Veterans and the scientific community, addressing historical exploitation. Moving forward, we plan to recruit more Veterans and focus on the experiences of those with more intersectional identities

KNEE RANGE OF MOTION AND RUNNING SPEED IN COLLEGIATE SOFTBALL AND BASEBALL ATHLETES

Knee joint range of motion (ROM) can affect activities of daily living and sports performance. Limited knee joint ROM can result in injuries because the body compensates, leading to increased stress on muscles and joints. The purpose of this study was to determine if a significant relationship between the athlete\u27s sprint speed and knee ROM exists. Participants included 15 baseball and 15 softball collegiate athletes. A manual goniometer was utilized to test the knee’s ROM in flexion, and a 40-m sprint time was performed to measure running speed. A Pearson r-test was used to determine if a significant relationship between knee angles and running speed exists. No statistical significance or strong correlation was found for right knee joint angle (p=.33, r=.26) or left knee joint angle (p=.28, r=.29) and 40-meter sprint speed in softball players. Conversely, a Pearson’s R test indicated a statistical significance, and a moderate correlation was found for both the right knee joint angle (p = .04, r = .52) and left knee joint angle (p = .04, r = .52) and 40-meter spring speed in baseball players. Therefore, regarding softball players, the null hypothesis was accepted, indicating no significant association exists between knee ROM and running speed. However, in baseball players, a significant association does exist between knee joint ROM and sprint speed. Results indicate that knee ROM has no significance in determining the running speed in softball collegiate athletes. However, knee ROM has a positive relationship with running speed in baseball collegiate athletes, indicating the greater knee ROM, the faster the individual can sprint. The result provides significant insight into flexibility training\u27s importance in the two sports and increased performance

MAKING THE MOST OF THE IODINE CLOCK REACTION IN FRESHMAN CHEMISTRY LAB

The KIO3 + NaHSO3/Starch Reaction (or Iodine Clock Reaction) may be used in illustrating some kinetics concepts to first-year chemistry students. In a typical laboratory session, the student mixes different concentrations of a KIO3 solution with a NaHSO3/Starch solution and then times how long it takes the mixture to turn purple (the reaction time.) There is more potential in using this experiment to teach the concepts of kinetics and initial rates. In this study, the concentration of each reactant affecting the reaction time was examined. Furthermore, how temperature affects the reaction time was also examined. Finally, the pH of the reaction mixture was measured from the time the two solutions were mixed until the solution turned purple. The pH dropped from 4.4 to 3.4 when it turned purple. It is concluded that the reaction time is inversely proportional to the concentration of KIO3 and NaHSO3 solutions. It is also concluded that the reaction time drops as the temperature rises. Additionally, the pH of the reaction mixture should be measurable at different temperatures. This information enables one to compute the initial rate of the reaction and, hence, determine the rate law and the value of the activation energy