Session One

Damion Schwendiman.  University of Arizona.  Evaluation of NDV Viral Vectors Vaccines Expressing Different H5N1 HA Proteins on Mice and Exploring The Broadness of Protection of Bivalent H3N2 Vaccines.  Currently, there have been human cases of H5N1, making H5N1 a potentially dangerous flu strain. This study explores the development of a bivalent vaccine that uses two heterologous H3N2 genes. It may be possible to create a more broadly neutralizing H3N2 vaccine, causing higher and broader immunity against H3N2, through the use of heterologous genes. Different levels of protection may be seen based on selected heterologous genes. This project also assesses the broadness of protection of bivalent H3N2 vaccines achieved in mice. 

Delaney Scott-Martin.  University of Arizona.  Historical Biogeography of Recently Extinct Animals.  The geographic distributions, phylogenies, and various other data from recently extinct chordates have generally been collected, however, they are yet to be integrated. We have begun to compile a list of recorded recently extinct species and relevant taxonomic and geographic data from the  IUCN and the Recently Extinct Species Database. Our plan is to use GIS tools and Species Distribution Models to model the historical landscapes of these species, and to produce and compare ancestral ranges for both these and related extant species. 

Paige Cherry.  University of Arizona.  A Pilot Database of Animal Cultures.  I’m working on a comparative database of animal culture and behavior. My poster will highlight two selected papers on animal culture, focusing on their findings about animal behavior, social learning, and culturally significant actions. I’ll explain the authors' methods and how their work connects to the broader project. The ultimate goal is to create an open-access resource that combines data on animal cultures with existing ecological databases to enhance research and accessibility.

Cynthia Navarro.  University of Arizona.  Designing Cooling Techniques for Outdoor Spaces in Arizona.  Cooling techniques for Arizona were researched, with the Civil and Electrical Engineering buildings at the University of Arizona as the site. The focus was on passive design strategies and water features from Asia and Latin America. Key factors included material selection (concrete, marble, and terracotta), humidity control, wind flow, and shading. Simulations identified the terracotta Jaali brick wall with vegetation as the most effective, reducing radiation and enhancing airflow. Manufacturability with Phase Change Materials was assessed, and grants are being pursued for construction.

Santiago J. Guzman, Florida International University.  Co-Authors: Cassandra N. Fuller, Lilian Valadares Tose, Myosotys Rodriguez, Nazira El-Hage, Francisco Fernandez-Lima.  Comparison of Pre- and Post-activation Post-translational Modifications in Promonocytes with Chronic Human Immunodeficiency Virus.  Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) latent reservoir persistence continues to be a significant obstacle to attaining a full recovery from the illness because these reservoirs enable the virus to avoid immune detection and endure despite antiretroviral therapy. Promonocytes with integrated HIV pro-viral DNA are used to generate U1 monocytes, a valuable model for researching the mechanisms underlying HIV latency and reactivation. This study focuses on the methodological approach used to examine how HIV reactivation from latency may influence post-translational modifications (PTMs) in histone proteins.  A bottom-up proteomics analysis was performed using advanced techniques to identify and quantify histone PTMs in U1 monocytes under latent and reactivated conditions. Nano-liquid chromatography was coupled with trapped ion mobility spectrometry using proprietary parallel accumulation-serial fragmentation technology and tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometry (nLC-TIMS-PASEF-ToF MS/MS).  Viral reactivation was induced in U1 monocytes by stimulation with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF- α) and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). Preliminary investigation of the nLC-TIMS-ToF MS/MS data shows a large dynamic range of detection (102-108) lending value to the method sensitivity and allowing for the detection of low-intensity peptides or charge states. The initial comparison of PTMs from latent and reactivated cells shows a potential addition or movement of certain PTMs. The methodology and results lay the groundwork for future research targeted at comprehending the epigenetic regulation of HIV latency and investigating histone PTMs as potential therapeutic targets in the treatment of HIV persistence.

Victoria Cruz.  Florida International University.  Co-Authors: Destiny F. Carbello, Stephen Suss, Taylor Jancetic.  Exploring the Influence of Psychedelics on Habenula Activity and Frustration Regulation: Clinical Implications for Substance Use Disorder Treatment.  The habenula plays a crucial role in processing frustration and decision making, particularly in events related to substance use. Recent research has shown the significance of the habenula’s involvement in frustration processing and its critical implications for substance use disorder (SUD), particularly in relapse. Psychedelics, such as psilocybin and LSD, may target the habenula, potentially recalibrating emotional responses and improving frustration tolerance. Changes  after psychedelic use have the potential to reshape SUD treatment by addressing the underlying neural mechanisms of emotional regulation. Key post-psychedelic physiological changes include alterations to neural connectivity, like increased integration with default mode network (DMN), and the modulation of neurotransmitter systems, such as serotonin and dopamine. Targeting the habenula through psychedelics could possibly bring about new approaches to the treatment of SUD by improving emotional regulation and frustration tolerance, though further research is necessary to solidify these findings. 

Nicole Rachez Duenas, Florida International University.  Examining the Dynamics of Social Integration & Exclusion of Marginalized Groups in History and Current Implications in Society.  This research explores the dynamics of social integration and exclusion experienced by marginalized groups throughout history while examining their current implications in society. Focusing on racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, religious groups, and formerly incarcerated people. The study aims to understand the persistent barriers to inclusion and the strategies these groups employ to overcome these obstacles. By utilizing a multidisciplinary approach that includes historical analysis, case studies, and contemporary examples, this research provides a comprehensive view of how marginalized groups have navigated social exclusion and fought for integration.  The study investigates various dimensions of social exclusion, such as economic, educational, and social disparities, and analyzes their impact on the well-being and opportunities of marginalized individuals. Additionally, it evaluates the effectiveness of social policies, community initiatives, and advocacy efforts aimed at promoting inclusivity and equity. Through comparative analyses across different regions and cultural contexts, this research highlights the systemic factors that perpetuate exclusion and identifies successful models of social integration.  By giving light on the experiences and perspectives of marginalized groups, this study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of social integration and exclusion. It advocates for a more inclusive society where diversity is embraced, and all individuals have the opportunity to participate fully and equally. Ultimately, this research aspires to inform policy alternatives and best practices for fostering inclusive communities, ensuring that the lessons from history guide contemporary efforts to achieve social justice and equity.

Shayan Khan.  The University of Arizona.  Empathy Education vs. Corruption: Insights from the Lab.  In this study, we aim to assess if empathy education affects corruption. Corruption is modeled using a one-shot bribery game where it will be played at the Economic Science Laboratory with university student participants. The treatment groups are educated on empathy with short videos encouraging them to consider how others would be affected when confronted with an opportunity to engage in immoral behavior. We hypothesize that the treatment will successfully decrease the incidence of bribery under the empathyaltruism hypothesis.