Showing all 46 posters
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A 3000 Year Record of Wildfire and Environmental Change from the Tipitapa River Delta, Lake Nicaragua
Hibah NooraniFaculty mentor: Dr. Robert DullRead abstractHide abstract
The purpose of this project was to explore how wildfire regimes in the NW Lake Nicaragua basin changed over the past 3000 years. The coring site, NicaLakes core LC-5, was one of five field sites sampled in Lake Nicaragua by a team from the University of Texas as a part of the NicaLakes project in 2006. Cores were extracted with a modified Livingstone square-rod piston corer from a floating catamaran coring platform launched from the Mozorolla Ferry. Macroscopic charcoal was identified and quantified at 1-cm intervals from a 3.88 meter sediment core from the Tipitapa river delta region of NW Lake Nicaragua. Sediment density and organic matter content within the core were calculated to assess depositional patterns of the Tipitapa River associated with the Masaya Triple Layer (MTL) volcanic eruption that occurred at ~2100 years B.P.. Five radiocarbon dates were used to construct an age model and to calculate charcoal accumulation rates (CHAR) throughout the core. The data were compared to paleoenvironmental records derived from cores elsewhere in Lake Nicaragua and on Ometepe Island. We observe spikes in charcoal, organic matter and water content in the core at depths coinciding with the MTL eruption. Additionally, charcoal deposition and organic matter content increase steadily from about 1850 yr BP onwards, signifying an increase in agricultural fire as human population density intensified in the late Holocene before the arrival of Europeans.
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Advocacy within the Community: Developing Resources for the Day Labor Corner
Lizbeth Ortiz LopezFaculty mentor: Dr. Lorena MunozRead abstractHide abstract
Intensified immigration operations within Ventura County have increasingly threatened the safety and stability of the Hispanic community. Particularly in Thousand Oaks, this climate has heightened the fears and anxieties of the local day laborer community. In partnership with Buen Vecino, a targeted training curriculum has been developed to better equip volunteers with essential Know Your Rights information and actionable safety protocols in the case of Immigration and Customs Enforcement ( ICE ) presence at the corner. To develop this training curriculum, a diverse methodological framework was employed; thus, it consisted of a literature review, web page analysis, document analysis, and a comparative review of existing training materials. Ultimately, this project provides volunteers with actionable protocols in the case of ICE encounters, while simultaneously empowering and educating members of the local community.
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A Global Comparison of Microfiber Quantities in Coastal Sediments
Domenico LambertFaculty mentor: Dr. Andrea HuvardRead abstractHide abstract
Microfibers are an increasingly widespread form of pollution found throughout many environments and ecosystems. These fibers can persist in the environment for extended periods and can be ingested by organisms and transferred through food webs. Determining microfiber distribution across coastal ecosystems is important for assessing the extent of microfiber contamination. The purpose of this study is to measure and compare the quantity of microfibers in beach sediment collected from five geographically distinct locations: Hueneme Beach in Southern California, Moonstone Beach in Northern California, Cocoa Beach in Florida, St. Lucia in the Caribbean, and Playa Colorado in Tola, Nicaragua. 100 mL sediment samples are mixed with 400 mL of seawater and processed through filtration to separate microfibers from the collected sediment samples. The filtered material is then examined under a microscope, and the number of microfibers present in each sample is recorded. By comparing microfiber amounts among beaches from different coastal regions, this study aims to identify differences in microfiber accumulation and explore whether locations that have greater human activity exhibit greater microfiber quantities. This study may contribute pertinent data to the relatively new field of microfiber studies and help contribute to a broader understanding of how microfiber pollution is distributed within coastal sediments.
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Anticancer Effects of EGCG in Ewing Sarcoma Cells in vitro
Aryan KazemiFaculty mentor: Dr. Chad L. BarberRead abstractHide abstract
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a major catechin found in green tea (Camellia sinensis), has demonstrated potential anticancer properties through its ability to inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. However, the effects of EGCG on A673 cancer cells across different treatment durations and concentrations are not yet fully understood. This study investigates the effects of EGCG treatment on cell proliferation, viability, and apoptosis in A673 cells and evaluates whether these effects vary with treatment duration and concentration. A673 cells were treated with EGCG at concentrations ranging from 0-80 μM and compared with untreated and vehicle controls. We evaluated cell proliferation using flow cytometry and cell viability using hemocytometer counts and trypan blue exclusion at 24, 48, and 72 hours. Preliminary results show decreased A673 proliferation and viability following EGCG treatment compared with untreated controls. These findings suggest that EGCG may suppress A673 cell proliferation and viability. Further experiments using Annexin V and propidium iodide flow cytometry will determine whether the observed changes in cell viability are associated with increased apoptotic cell death and may contribute to understanding the potential of EGCG as an anticancer compound for further investigation in cancer research.
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A Shy Start or a Bold Leap: Does Incubation Temperature Influence Behavioral Syndromes in Leopard Geckos?
Natalie GuillenFaculty mentor: Dr. Kristopher KarstenRead abstractHide abstract
This study explores how incubation temperature, which skews hatchling sex in leopard geckos, influences the shy-bold axis behavioral syndrome in juveniles. This study asks whether male leopard geckos differ in shyness or boldness depending on whether their eggs were incubated at female biased temperatures. Approximately 22 hatchlings were incubated at either female biased temperatures (24–28°C) or male biased temperatures (31–32°C). Juveniles will later be exposed to a novel plastic snake to assess antipredator behavior. Boldness will be evaluated by measuring the latency to approach the novel object and the frequency of tongue flicks during trials conducted 3-5 times per individual every 2-3 days per week. Based on previous findings that males incubated at female biased temperatures exhibit different phenotypic and behavioral characteristics, we predict that males from female biased incubation temperatures will display shyer behavior than males from male biased temperatures. Results will be analyzed via statistical analysis in order to determine a repeatable trait. Understanding how incubation temperature influences behavioral phenotypes may provide insight into how environmental conditions contribute to individual behavior.
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Biochemical assessment of Cleaved Caspase-3 Presence in A673 Cell Cultures Treated With Various Micromolar Concentrations of Berberine Chloride
Joby JobyFaculty mentor: Chad Barber PhDRead abstractHide abstract
Berberine is a quaternary ammonium salt derived from many naturally occurring plant species. This alkaloid has shown anticancer properties in multiple studies. This project examines the expression of a protein called Cleaved Caspase-3, an indicator of apoptosis (programmed cell death), in A673-Ewing Sarcoma Cells treated with Berberine Chloride using a technique called the Western Blot. Cells were exposed to 10, 20, 40, 80 𝛍M Berberine Chloride for 24, 48, or 72 hours. Cell proliferation was reduced in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Cell death increased as well, in the same manner. Preliminary findings indicate the presence of Cleaved Caspase-3 fragments in Western Blot Analysis. This suggests that Berberine Chloride induces cell death specifically through apoptosis in A673 cell cultures.
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Challenging the Stigma Behind Parental Incarceration: The Experiences of Latina/o College Students with Incarcerated Parents
Nathalie AlvaradoFaculty mentor: Dr. Jose TorresRead abstractHide abstract
This qualitative study examined how thirty Latina/o students in California community colleges and four-year universities navigated social stigmas associated with their parent’s incarceration. This study explored how the “mark” of incarceration affected the lives, families, and educational experiences of adult children with incarcerated parents. The findings reveal the unintended and collateral consequences of mass incarceration in adult children’s lives, families, and education. This study focused on three key areas: (1) the effects of parental incarceration stigma and courtesy stigma on college students' lives, families, and education, (2) the stigma management strategies and techniques used by students to manage and navigate the social stigmas, stereotypes, and negative labels associated to their parent’s incarceration, and (3) the role of community colleges and universities in helping students be successful and resilient while in college. Overall, this study found that Latina/o college students proved to be resilient, overcame challenges, and excelled academically with the support from faculty mentors, program directors, and student support services. This study highlights the diverse experiences of adult children with incarcerated parents and demonstrates the need for more institutional policies, funding, and support structures in community colleges and universities to better serve and support students with incarcerated family members.
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Comparison of Microplastic Quantities in East Coast vs West Coast Farmed Oysters
Aidan CampFaculty mentor: Dr. Andrea HuvardRead abstractHide abstract
Oysters, from the phylum Mollusca, are filter feeders, making them ideal for studying microscopic pollution such as microfibers. This study’s purpose was to determine the potential difference in amounts between three geographical groups of oysters. Our three groups were Chesapeake Bay farmed oysters (East Coast), Morro Bay farmed oysters (West Coast), and Channel Islands Harbor wild oysters (West Coast). Our hypothesis was that wild oysters would have more fibers per gram than the farmed oysters, as well as that Chesapeake Bay farmed oysters would have more than Morro Bay. In order to analyze how many fibers were in the organisms, we used a mortar and pestle and multiple washes to release the fibers from the oyster’s tissues. We then ran the samples through a filtration system and finally under a microscope for microfiber counts. After data analysis, our results concluded that not only was the original hypothesis incorrect, but the opposite was supported. Wild caught oysters had significantly less microfibers per gram than either of the farmed caught locations (p-value= 0.0000027). However, there was no found significant difference between the two farmed locations (p-value= 0.54). This data prompts further research on what environmental differences between farms and wild locations could be the cause of these results. In addition, while there was a difference in the quantity of microfibers, there were still microfibers found in every single sample, highlighting the importance of pollution awareness and prevention needed in public society.
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Cultivating Change: How Dismantling Educational Barriers in Agriculture Grows Modes of Success
Syd ParedesFaculty mentor: Dr. Andrea SellRead abstractHide abstract
This study investigates the growing need for agriculture programs that provide the tools for high-paying, high-position employment in our regional higher education system. Using a survey design, this study will pinpoint the recurring themes of desired education for such employment to be attainable. This study will also investigate the gaps in current programs at local community colleges and surrounding universities. The study will then provide insight and build recommendations for potential programs that need to be created to help students achieve their full potential in their desired field in agriculture careers.
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Curry Against Cancer: Curcumin’s Anticancer Effects in vitro
Joey LinFaculty mentor: Dr. Chad L. BarberRead abstractHide abstract
Curcumin, derived from Curcuma longa, has been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and chemopreventive properties. However, research on the compound's effects on T-cell lymphoma remains limited. Thus, this study utilizes EL4 cells, a type of lymphoma originating from mice with malignant T-cells, to evaluate the anticancer effects of curcumin by measuring proliferation, viability, migration, and pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Using hemocytometry, we tested concentrations of curcumin ranging from 10µM to 40µM and found that curcumin decreases proliferation and viability in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the Boyden chamber assay showed that curcumin increased migration after 24 hours; cells with curcumin at higher concentrations had more cells migrate into the lower layer. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay will be conducted in the future to investigate curcumin's effect on IL-2 proteins. Our findings demonstrate curcumin’s ability to decrease proliferation and viability of EL4 cells while increasing the number of migrated cells. This research will help determine whether curcumin is a viable candidate for enhancing current therapies.
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Designing a Binding Study for NIS Synthetase FsIA
Undral GanbaatarFaculty mentor: Dr. Katherine HoffmannRead abstractHide abstract
FslA is a nonribosomal peptide synthetase-independent siderophore synthetase (NIS synthetase) involved in the biosynthesis of the iron-scavenging siderophore rhizoferrin in Francisella tularensis. Because siderophore production contributes to bacterial iron acquisition and virulence, FslA represents a potential target for future antibiotic development. This study aimed to optimize FslA protein expression and purification and establish an isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC)-based approach for characterizing its cofactor and substrate binding interactions. FslA was overexpressed in _Escherichia coli _and evaluated using preliminary ITC experiments. Supplementing the culture medium with additional iron improved FslA overexpression to a degree, although protein yield and cell viability remained inconsistent. Purified FslA reached approximately 60% purity and was used to examine binding to a cofactor called ADP. ADP titration produced measurable heat changes and clean individual injection heats, indicating a specific binding interaction and demonstrating that the purified FslA was functionally active. The binding-site occupancy appeared to be approximately one, consistent with previous NIS synthetase studies. However, the titration did not extend sufficiently beyond saturation to determine the overall reaction enthalpy. Future work will optimize ligand concentrations and injection parameters and evaluate ATP, ADP, and AMP binding. These studies will establish a reliable framework for characterizing FslA binding interactions and support future structure-guided inhibitor development targeting siderophore biosynthesis.
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Determining the pH Profile of DesD
Samantha IvanezFaculty mentor: Dr. Katherine HoffmannRead abstractHide abstract
Nonribosomal peptide synthetase-independent siderophore (NIS) synthetases are enzymes found in some bacteria that produce hydroxamate siderophores. Siderophores help pathogenic bacteria compete in iron-deficient environments by increasing the solubility of iron (Fe+3) for bacterial uptake and survival. NIS siderophores are important virulence factors because they are not easily identified by the human immune system, and therefore the NIS Synthetases that make them are compelling drug targets. The chemical mechanism of NIS synthetases is not well understood, however their adenylate intermediate and novel protein fold have been recently proposed. Understanding the mechanism for NIS synthetases will aid future structure-based drug design, which is the long-term goal of the Hoffmann Lab. This research project focuses on the acid/base proton transfer proposed in our two-step adenylate forming hypothesis using the model enzyme DesD from Streptomyces coelicolor. We propose that E467 acts as a general acid and general base in the second step of the mechanism and have shown that only half of the bond forming events occur kinetically. The next step of this project will test the hypothesis of a two-proton dependence in siderophore biosynthesis using a pH profile: our established kinetics experiments at systematically different pH levels to analyze _kcat_’s dependence on pH. A figure graphing this relationship will be constructed, and its slope will be analyzed to provide evidence for our hypothesis. We will present our preliminary data.
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Effects of Microbiome Based Lifestyle Change on Body Composition in Obese/Overweight Young Adults
Taylor BassFaculty mentor: Dr. Louise KellyRead abstractHide abstract
Purpose: To see if consuming kombucha and increasing your fiber intake over the course of 8 weeks will decrease fat mass and body composition in adults ages 18-30 who are overweight/obese.
Methods: 100 subjects who are ages 18-30 and have a BMI of >25 kg/m^2 will be randomized into an experimental or placebo group. Subjects in the experimental group will drink one 12oz serving of kombucha a day and be told to increase their fiber intake. Those in the placebo group will drink a placebo beverage and continue with their current diet. They will be assessed at baseline and after the 8 week period using BodPod and BIA to measure body composition. They will also have their weight and BMI taken. The participants will be asked to continue their current activity level and habits for the duration of the study. Body composition will be analyzed using repeated measures to see if there is any difference between the two groups.
Outcomes: We expect that the subjects that receive the intervention of consuming kombucha and increasing fiber intake will show a greater change in body composition than those who receive the placebo.
Importance: Can help us see if consuming a commercially available fermented drink and increasing your fiber intake can change body composition in young adults that are overweight/obese.
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Effects of Water Quality Parameters on Ostracod Populations within the Carpinteria Salt Marsh
Brooklynn HendersonFaculty mentor: Dr. Megan FungRead abstractHide abstract
The use of bioindicators has become an integral part of analyzing and further interpreting important environmental and climatic shifts. Microfauna, such as ostracods, can be studied to better understand the conditions in many waterway systems, like marsh environments. In this study, we looked at various water quality parameters (e.g., pH, dissolved oxygen, specific conductivity, temperature, oxidation reduction potential) of the Santa Monica Creek, located within the Carpinteria Salt Marsh, as they relate to ostracod abundance (i.e.,whole and half carapace counts) from five surface sediment samples taken along a transect. We find half carapace ostracods per mL is highest at Site #1 (closest to the train tracks and farthest from the ocean). Conversely, whole carapace ostracods per mL is lowest at Site #1. When considering water quality parameters, ostracod counts per mL for half and whole carapace are highest where water temperatures are either high (~19.5℃ ) or low (~18℃). The same relationship occurs when analyzing pH and salinity. Across the five sites, pH ranges from 7.5 - 8.3, and ostracod counts per mL for half and whole carapace are highest at a pH of 7.5 and a pH of 8.1. Salinity levels range from 3 - 15ppt, and for both whole and half ostracod carapace counts, the values are highest where levels are ~1 ppt or >15 ppt. This information suggests that ostracods thrive under end-member or possibly extreme conditions. Overall, this study shows that ostracod abundance is driven by various water quality parameters throughout the Santa Monica Creek. Using ostracods as bioindicators can provide insight into the overall health of this waterway and how capable it is in supporting life.
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Establishing Catalytic Residue R351 in FslA, an NIS Synthetase from Francisella tularensis.
Hasti SeyedebrahimnazhadFaculty mentor: Katherine HoffmannRead abstractHide abstract
Growing antibiotic resistance highlights the need for new targets for antibacterial drug development. One promising target is the nonribosomal peptide synthetase-independent siderophore (NIS) synthetase family. NIS synthetases help bacteria acquire iron, an essential nutrient for growth and virulence. FslA, an NIS synthetase from Francisella tularensis, produces the siderophore rhizoferrin from citrate, diaminobutane, and ATP. Structural and functional similarities between FslA and siderophore-producing enzymes in Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA, make FslA a useful model for studying enzyme mechanisms and guiding future inhibitor development.
This project focused on Arg351, a residue predicted to contribute to FslA catalysis based on comparisons with the related NIS synthetase DesD and sequence and structural alignments. Replacing Arg351 with glutamine was hypothesized to produce a catalytically inactive FslA variant suitable for future binding and structural studies.
C-terminal streptavidin-tagged R351Q FslA was expressed using a cell-free protein-expression system and purified by affinity chromatography. Purification efforts aimed to obtain sufficient protein for biochemical characterization and crystallization. However, protein-production difficulties prevented further characterization, and this project ended at the purification stage. Enzyme kinetics, ATP-binding measurements, and crystallization trials were not completed, leaving the catalytic effect of the R351Q mutation unresolved.
Despite the experimental limitations, this project identified protein production as a major barrier to studying R351Q FslA. Further optimization of expression and purification will be necessary before the role of Arg351 in catalysis can be tested.
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Establishment of a New Canine Tumor Cell Line by Transfecting Human TERT
Yoshua TundaFaculty mentor: Dr. Chad BarberRead abstractHide abstract
Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences that protect chromosome ends but shorten during each round of cell division, eventually leading to cellular senescence or apoptosis. The telomerase prevents this shortening by adding TTAGGG repeats to telomeres, with TERT serving as its catalytic reverse transcriptase subunit. Previous research detected telomerase activity in more than 95% of canine tumor samples, suggesting that this enzyme plays an important role in canine cancer cells. This project aims to introduce hTERT into canine tumor cells to promote telomere maintenance and establish a stable cell line. Successful hTERT expression is expected to increase telomerase activity, extend the cells’ replicative lifespan, and support long-term growth in culture. The resulting cell line could provide a useful laboratory model for studying canine cancer and other biological processes. To achieve this, hTERT will be delivered using a plasmid containing a GFP reporter, allowing successfully transfected cells to be identified by fluorescence. PCR will confirm the presence of the introduced hTERT sequence before the telomerase activity is evaluated.
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Evaluating the Impact of a College Exploration Program
Kimberly VargasFaculty mentor: Dr. Lorena MunozRead abstractHide abstract
The Ventura Housing College Exploration Program is designed to increase students’ knowledge of higher education pathways, financial aid, and academic success skills. Students in grades 8–12 completed a pre-survey created by Ventura Housing before participating in workshops and college campus visits, followed by a post-survey after completing the program. Survey results were compared to evaluate changes in students’ self-reported confidence and college and career readiness.
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Evaluating the Practical Security of Low-Power Wireless and Network Authentication Systems Through Controlled Adversarial Testing
Hilda ArellanoFaculty mentor: Dr. Chang-Shyh PengRead abstractHide abstract
Authentication systems determine whether a user, device, or command should be trusted. Network authentication and wireless controls are part of everyday technologies, yet their responses to unauthorized activity can differ. This research examines how common network-authentication and low-power wireless-control systems resist or document basic adversarial activity in a controlled environment.
Two experiments were conducted to explore these responses. The network-authentication experiment used Kali Linux and Ubuntu virtual machines to observe successful SSH access and intentional failed password attempts. Authentication records were reviewed to determine how the activity was documented. The wireless experiment compared infrared commands from a Flipper Zero with those from the original LED-light remote through repeated trials at measured distances.
The experiments revealed differences in how the systems handled the tested activity. Authentication records provided insight into access attempts, while the infrared trials raised questions about how basic wireless devices distinguish between command sources.
These findings highlight the importance of considering both activity monitoring and command verification when evaluating practical security. Although limited to the tested systems and conditions, this study provides a foundation for further investigation of automated defenses and wireless-device behavior.
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Examining the Accessibility of Education Within Reentry For Formerly Incarcerated Women
Caroline FinkbeinerFaculty mentor: Kiku HuckleRead abstractHide abstract
Men make up the vast majority of incarcerated individuals; as a result, there is limited reentry programming for women. Although men and women may experience similar barriers post-incarceration, women face a multitude of challenges distinct from men within reentry because of systemic and gendered biases. Post-secondary education offers a strong potential solution to mitigating many of the issues women face, yet it is unclear if women have equal access to post incarceration educational programs. Semi-structured interviews with Project Rebound coordinators, a California State university reentry initiative designed to provide higher education support, help to identify the types of barriers systemically impacted women face to accessing such educational programs, the difficulties the reentry programs encounter when executing educational programs, and how the reentry programs have assisted women within reentry. By analyzing accessibility, the study seeks to fill a vast gap in literature regarding the intersectional realities of reentry and educational access for formerly incarcerated women.
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Exploring Levels of Microfibers and Microplastics in the Palisades Fire Red Zone Sediments
Cassandra AguirreFaculty mentor: Andrea HuvardRead abstractHide abstract
Microplastic pollution especially that of microfibers, has become an increasing concern because of how easy it is spread while showing its presence in the marine ecosystem and sediments. While microfibers are no commonly found in marine environment, little is known on how wildfire events may affect its presence in the sediments. The recent Palisades fire lets us examine whether the wildfire related runoff may contribute to the increased microfiber and microplastic pollution along the nearby beaches and coastal areas. This project will investigate the levels and the characteristics of microfibers and microplastic that can be found in refined affected by the palisades fire. More specifically from the affected “Red Zones” where fire passed near Will Rogers State Beach and compare them with the unaffected area. Multiple sand samples were collected from two locations, north and south, which were separated through the vacuum filtration. The microfiber count was collected and then analyzed under a microscope and be categorized through the courses of months.
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Exploring Sexual Assault and Dating Violence Prevention Education for Middle School Students in Ventura County: Findings from Phases 1 and 2
Yasmine GomezFaculty mentor: Dr. Schannae LucasRead abstractHide abstract
Sexual assault and teen dating violence prevention education during middle school may play an important role in helping young people recognize unhealthy behaviors and develop healthy relationship skills. This multiphase study examines effective approaches to sexual assault and teen dating violence prevention education for middle school students, with particular attention to prevention efforts in Ventura County.
_Phase 1 _consists of a review of existing literature examining the effectiveness and implementation of school-based violence prevention programs. Preliminary findings identify several promising practices, including interactive discussion and role-play, social-emotional learning, peer education, culturally responsive programming, and comprehensive approaches that model healthy relationships, communication, and gender norms. Phase 2 builds upon these findings by examining how prevention education is implemented in practice through observations made during community service and outreach in Ventura County. Together, these phases explore the relationship between evidence-based recommendations and community-based prevention practices.
Moving forward, Phase 3 will incorporate interviews with professionals involved in developing or delivering prevention education programs to further identify best practices, implementation challenges, and opportunities for program improvement. Findings from this study may inform the continued development of age-appropriate, engaging, and responsive sexual assault and teen dating violence prevention education for middle school students.
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Family Literacy Practices and School Involvement Among Latino Parents
Danessi ValienteFaculty mentor: Dr. Brandy YeeRead abstractHide abstract
As the Latino population continues to grow throughout the US there is an increasing number of students from Latin descent in our schools. There is a trend of lower academic achievement among the large Latino population even after students have gained English competency (Billings, 2009). Research indicates that parental involvement is a critical factor in student success but there are low levels of parental involvement among Latino parents (González-Carriedo et al., 2025). There are different factors that hinder Latino parents from engaging in literacy activities with their children at home and preventing them from being involved in school activities.There is a need for an implementation of literacy programs that address these barriers. This present study carefully examines current barriers Latino parents are facing in helping their children academically. This study used quantitative and qualitative methods, incorporating surveys and interviews. A sample of 12 Spanish-speaking Latino mothers completed an online survey assessing the type of literacy activities they engaged in with their child and the challenges they face. Three of the participants participated in an interview. Thematic analysis revealed three themes: limited engagement in literacy activities due to work and after-school schedules, language barriers as the greatest restriction, and a desire for programs that accommodate parents’ language needs and limited time. The purpose of this study is to identify the prominent barriers Latino parents face in supporting their children's literacy development and explore how schools can use these findings to develop effective literacy programs that respond to their needs.
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Feasibility, Adherence, and Health Related Responses to an 8-Week Lifestyle Intervention Aimed at Improving the Gut Microbiome in Young Adults
Matthew CanoFaculty mentor: Dr. Louise KellyRead abstractHide abstract
To determine adherence to and tolerance of a microbiome-enhancing lifestyle intervention. Gastrointestinal symptoms and other health-related responses to the intervention will be measured in adults aged 18-30 with overweight/obesity, randomized into an experimental group or a placebo control group. Participants in the experimental group will drink a 12oz serving of kombucha each day and be given fiber recommendations. Those in the placebo group will drink a placebo beverage and continue their current diet. Participants will answer a survey each week that asks them about beverage adherence, gastrointestinal symptoms, eating habits, fluid intake, sleep, exercise, any side effects, and reasons why they may not have adhered to the protocol. This study would allow us to learn if an intervention aimed at improving one’s microbiome through dietary changes is something people will follow. We can then use this information to see what may have caused low adherence and create more effective interventions. We expect this intervention to be adherable and tolerable for participants with only mild gastrointestinal symptoms. There will be exploratory outcomes to look at changes in gastrointestinal symptoms, energy, and well-being between groups.
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Framing Resurrection as Resilience: Cognitive Reappraisal, Social Safety, & Hope in 1 Thessalonians
Sofia S'groFaculty mentor: Dr. Julia FoggRead abstractHide abstract
This research builds on Dr. Fogg’s neurocognitive approach to understanding joy in Paul’s letters, developed in “A Neurocognitive Approach Reveals Paul’s Embodied Emotional Strategies.” Using Fogg’s hermeneutic as a template, this study examines the role of hope as a strategy for building community in Paul’s correspondence with the Thessalonians. Viewing Paul's use of apocalyptic hope through the lens of contemporary neurocognitive research on emotion, cognition, and social regulation suggests Paul's epistolary exhortation functions as an early form of cognitive and embodied communal resilience. By replacing the Thessalonians' uncertainty surrounding death with hope and confidence in Christ’s resurrection and anticipated return, Paul transforms grief into endurance, inviting the Thessalonian community to acknowledge present suffering while remaining oriented toward a shared future. Such integration of future-oriented hope with present communal love provides psychological and social stability despite persecution and grief. This study demonstrates how applying a neurocognitive lens to Pauline letters illumines the function of theological discourse for affect regulation, resilience, and social safety, and contributes to furthering Fogg's hermeneutical move.
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From Adolescence to Young Adulthood: Father-Daughter Communication Patterns and Mental Health
Sophia Moncayo & Gabriella PedoFaculty mentor: Dr. Nicole TalaricoRead abstractHide abstract
Father-daughter communication is an important aspect of family relationships that may contribute to young women’s well-being (Moran et al., 2018). Research has shown that emerging adult daughters who report more effective communication tend to experience better mental health, whereas greater conflict leads to poorer outcomes (Sun et al., 2025). Despite these findings, less is known about how young adult women perceive changes in communication from adolescence to young adulthood. Understanding these relationships may provide more insight during this developmental transition. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine 1) perceived differences in communication from adolescence to young adulthood, 2) differences in type of communication (e.g., open/unhealthy), and 3) the association with mental health. A sample of 55 young adult females completed an online survey assessing father communication and mental health. Results showed little change in perceived differences, with a marginal decrease in unhealthy communication from adolescence (M = 2.31, _SD _= .87) to young adulthood (M = 2.21, SD = .92), _t_(38) = 1.74, p = .090, d = .28, and no change in open communication. Additionally, there were differences in type of communication in that participants reported higher levels of open (M = 3.69, SD = .96) than unhealthy communication (_M _= 2.21, SD = .93), _t_(39) = 5.07, p < .001, d = .81, large effect. Lastly, open communication was associated with lower depression (r = −.38, p = .020, N = 38), whereas unhealthy communication was associated with higher depression (r = .53, p < .001, N = 38).
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From Demand Prediction to Bike Redistribution: A Data-Driven Network Approach
Carina LindfieldFaculty mentor: Dr. Christopher Brown and Dr. John VillalpandoRead abstractHide abstract
Bike-sharing systems have emerged in over a thousand cities worldwide as an alternative transportation mode that can reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption. As these systems grow, operators must maintain availability across stations while limiting unnecessary travel. This research uses historical trip data to identify recurring patterns of over- or under-supplied stations and inform more efficient redistribution strategies.
Using historical data from Philadelphia’s bike sharing system, station activity data was collected and cleaned, then aggregated by time and location to determine net changes in available bikes. Hourly, weekly, and quarterly patterns were used to determine recurring surplus and deficit. Linear models predicted overall net change, and the models were ranked based on their ability to estimate demand. Predictions were incorporated into a network-based redistribution model. Stations were grouped into geographical districts, allowing efficient distance-based pairings between surplus and deficit districts.
For a selected scenario of Mondays in the second quarter of 2025, six out of ten districts were surplus, and four were deficit. The optimized redistribution plan allocates about 50 bikes across six district pairings, resulting in a 10.45% reduction compared with the baseline.
This approach demonstrated how demand prediction and network optimization can help bike-share operators to reduce unnecessary redistribution travel while improving bike availability.
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Fuerza y Bienestar (Strength for the Mind and Body): A Culturally Tailored Strength-Training Intervention to Improve Mental Health in Latino Adults
Vanessa FaceyFaculty mentor: Dr. Louise KellyRead abstractHide abstract
Background: Many Latino adults are unable to receive culturally competent care when seeking treatment for their mental health needs. It has been shown that resistance training can be beneficial to one's mental health but its impact on Latino adults is unknown.
Purpose: Pilot study to test the effect of a 12 week culturally competent resistance training program on depression, anxiety and perceived stress in Latino adults.
Methods: Participants are randomized to either a strength-training intervention or waitlist control group. The intervention consists of supervised resistance training three times per week for 12 weeks. Depression, anxiety, and perceived stress are assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10), respectively. Program adherence and retention are also monitored. Recruitment and data collection are ongoing, with three participants currently enrolled.
Expected Results: Those in our intervention group are expected to have a decrease in depression and anxiety and perceived stress compared to baseline and the wait list control. We expect high levels of adherence to our program. As this is a pilot study we will mainly use our results to gather more information about our intervention and can expect some change from baseline.
Conclusions: Fuerza y Bienestar offers an innovative, trauma-informed model linking physical and mental health through culturally grounded resistance training. This study aims to inform scalable, bilingual strategies that advance mental-health equity and exercise adherence in Latino communities.
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Generational Differences in Sibling Relationships and Mental Health among Latinos
Lupita SilvaFaculty mentor: Dr. Nicole TalaricoRead abstractHide abstract
Sibling relationships are an important source of emotional support and are associated with greater family connectedness and better psychological adjustment (Holmes et al., 2024). However, sibling relationships may vary across generations within Latino families. For instance, first-generation individuals may experience greater acculturative stress as they navigate traditional cultural values while adapting to U.S. culture (Cervantes et al., 2013), which may contribute to relationship challenges. Despite the importance of sibling relationships, limited research has examined generational differences in sibling relationships among Latino families. Thus, this study examined generational differences in sibling relationship (warmth/conflict) and mental health. A sample of 159 Latino young adults (ages 18–35 years) completed an anonymous online survey assessing sibling relationship quality and mental health. One-way between-subjects ANOVAs were conducted to examine differences across generations. Results indicated no significant differences in sibling warmth, _F_(2, 156) = 0.97, p = .38. Although the difference in sibling conflict was not statistically significant, first-generation reported higher conflict (M = 2.69, SD = 0.89) than third-generation (M = 2.27, SD = 0.80), _F_(2, 156) = 2.30, p = .104. In contrast, a significant difference emerged for stress, with first-generation (M = 2.27, SD = 0.59) reporting higher stress than third-generation (M = 1.86, SD = 0.48), _F_(2, 149) = 4.50, p = .013. Although differences in anxiety/depression were not significant, both followed a similar pattern, with first-generation reporting higher levels than later-generation participants. Overall, these findings show the importance of generational and cultural experiences among Latino families.
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Habitual Dietary Intake and Markers of Glucose Homeostasis in Latino Adolescent Males with Obesity
Angela Martinez DominguezFaculty mentor: Dr. Louise KellyRead abstractHide abstract
Background: Latino adolescents with obesity are at increased risk for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. However, few studies have examined associations between habitual dietary intake and direct measures of insulin sensitivity, insulin secretion, and β-cell function in this population.
Purpose: To examine associations between habitual energy and macronutrient intake and markers of glucose homeostasis in Latino adolescent males with obesity.
Methods: Secondary cross-sectional analyses were conducted in 18 Latino adolescent males with obesity aged 14–18 years. Habitual dietary intake was assessed using 3-day dietary records. Insulin sensitivity (SI), acute insulin response (AIR), and disposition index (DI) were derived from an insulin-modified frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test. Associations were examined using correlations and multivariable regression.
Results: Mean energy intake was 1617.7 ± 457.9 kcal/day. Energy (_r_=.590, _p_=.010), protein (_r_=.598, _p_=.009), carbohydrate (_r_=.542, _p_=.020), and fat (_r_=.479, _p_=.044) intakes were positively associated with AIR. Total and saturated fat were positively associated with DI (_p_<.05). No dietary variables were significantly associated with SI. After adjustment for age and BMI, energy intake remained associated with AIR (_p_=.003) and DI (_p_<.001), whereas associations with individual macronutrients were attenuated after adjustment for energy intake.
Conclusion: Total energy intake was more robustly associated with insulin secretion and β-cell function than individual macronutrients. These preliminary findings highlight overall energy intake as a potentially important dietary correlate of glucose homeostasis in Latino adolescent males with obesity.
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Identifying the Genetic Sex Determination Mechanism of Rosy Boas (Lichanura trivirgata) Using PCR Analysis of Shed Skin DNA
Evan EdwardsRead abstractHide abstract
Although an XX/XY system of sex determination has been identified in other boa and python species, the mechanism in Lichanura trivirgata, commonly known as the rosy boa, remains unknown. Because sex determination can vary among closely related species, this project investigates the genetic sex determination mechanism of the rosy boa. To do this non-invasively, DNA was extracted from naturally shed skin using the Qiagen DNeasy Blood & Tissue Kit. PCR was then used to target the cytochrome b gene as a control, but no amplification was detected when gel electrophoresis was run. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was also performed to target the Y-linked marker TCBoa\_2918, previously identified in Boa imperator. No amplification was detected for this marker as well, indicating further optimization of the DNA extraction process, PCR conditions, or both is needed. Focusing on rosy boas within snake sex chromosome evolution extends recent genomic findings and provides species-level resolution. Without direct evidence for this species, assumptions based on other lineages may obscure unique patterns within Boidae, the family rosy boas are part of. Because rosy boas exhibit limited sexual dimorphism, distinguishing males from females can be difficult without more invasive techniques. Developing a reliable, non-invasive genetic method of sex determination is therefore valuable.
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Investigating Laboratory Water for WT DesD Purification
Mark OundoFaculty mentor: Katherine M. HoffmannRead abstractHide abstract
DesD, an enzyme involved in bacterial siderophore biosynthesis, provides a model for investigating the role of pyrophosphate (PPi) in substrate recognition. The research aims to determine whether PPi enhances AMP binding and stabilizes the active site of DesD from Streptomyces coelicolor using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Initial difficulties recovering purified protein prompted investigation of water sources used in protein production, purification, and calorimetry. Water controls consisted of 14 injections with the same water source in both the syringe and sample cell. CSUSM Milli-Q water exhibited comparatively consistent injection responses and fewer irregular fluctuations, while other sources showed greater variability in heat flow. DesD purification involved nickel-affinity chromatography following bacterial growth and protein overexpression. Initial production using ASCI deionized water resulted in minimal detectable protein during nickel-column elution. A subsequent preparation using purchased Gibco cell-culture water for growth and overexpression produced a prominent ultraviolet absorbance peak, consistent with improved protein recovery. These findings establish Gibco water as a practical alternative for protein production, while ASCI water remains suitable for purification buffers. The troubleshooting advanced preparation for experiments testing the hypothesis that PPi actively contributes to DesD substrate recognition. Future work will assess protein purity, quantify recovery, and compare AMP binding with and without PPi to characterize its effects on binding affinity and thermodynamics.
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Life Experiences and Outcomes of Domestic Abuse Survivors
Cora MaldonadoFaculty mentor: Dr. Andrea SellRead abstractHide abstract
In the U.S., approximately 1 in every 2 women and 1 in every 6 men will experience domestic violence at some point in their lives (Zhang et al., 2020). The study explores the different outcomes for individuals who live in households with domestic violence present. A large, pre-existing data set from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, including 3,937 individuals ranging in age from 39-51, was explored. A Chi-Squared test showed no relationship between experiencing domestic violence and current diagnosis of depression, _p_=0.067. However, People who reported having experienced sexual domestic violence at some point reported consuming more drinks than those who didn’t report experiencing sexual domestic violence, _p_=0.026. Similarly, People who reported having experienced physical domestic violence at some point reported consuming more drinks per sitting than those who didn’t report having experienced physical domestic violence, _p_=0.006. People who reported having experienced physical domestic violence at some point reported spending more time in jail than people who didn’t report experiencing domestic violence, _p_=0.034. However, this was not also true for sexual domestic violence, _p_=0.138. These findings could be significant in understanding the experiences of survivors of domestic abuse, which can lead to a better understanding of the needs of these individuals.
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Maintaining Women’s Healthcare Access After Rural Hospital Closure: A Healthcare Blueprint for Santa Paula
Nadia GomezFaculty mentor: Dr. Jose MarichalRead abstractHide abstract
Rural hospital closures can disrupt women's access to prenatal, obstetric, postpartum, primary, and specialty care. This project examines how comparable rural communities have maintained women's healthcare access following hospital closures and identifies strategies that could be adapted to Santa Paula.Using a comparative case-study approach, the project examines Madera, California; Independence, Kansas; and Fulton, Kentucky, focusing on services lost, community responses, partnerships, funding, and women's healthcare access. These findings are compared with Santa Paula's existing healthcare resources, anticipated service gaps, and community needs. Preliminary findings indicate that no single strategy replaces hospital-based care. Communities have instead relied on combinations of community-based care, regional healthcare partnerships, transportation, emergency medical services, care coordination, and alternative models for specialty and obstetric care. The project culminates in a Women’s Healthcare Blueprint for Santa Paula identifying feasible strategies, potential partners, funding opportunities, and policy considerations.
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Microfiber Pollution in Wild vs. Farmed Mussels
Hasley JimenezFaculty mentor: Dr. Andrea HuvardRead abstractHide abstract
Microfiber pollution is an increasing environmental concern because synthetic fibers enter marine ecosystems and can be ingested by filter-feeding organisms such as mussels. This study compared microfiber contamination in wild and farmed mussels to determine whether habitat influences microfiber accumulation. Mussel tissue was manually homogenized using a mortar and pestle with seawater, then vacuum filtered to collect and amount microfibers for microscopic analysis. Farmed mussels showed a higher average number of microfibers than wild mussels, suggesting that areas with greater human activity may contribute to increased microfiber pollution. These findings demonstrate the value of mussels as indicators of marine microfiber contamination.
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Modeling tools for finite momentum pairing and magnetic response in superconductors
Ashfiah ChowdhuryFaculty mentor: Dr. John DeiszRead abstractHide abstract
The aim of this research project is to develop a computer model for evaluating several key properties of superconducting materials: magnetic response, superfluid density, and finite momentum pairing. A Python-based code was generated by Google Gemini for a baseline model superconductor, consisting of a two-dimensional rectangular arrangement of atoms with one valence orbital per atom. Parameters, self-energy loops, and Green's functions were incorporated into this code to calculate the properties desired. Simulation results showed that momentum of electron pairs changed in response to a magnetic field as is observed in superconducting materials. Additionally, the simulation was able to produce superconducting phase diagrams as a function of temperature as well as other system parameters. Thus, we were successful in developing an algorithm to calculate key properties for superconducting materials. This will help us in developing increasingly accurate models that have the potential to assist in the search for new superconducting materials having characteristics, such as higher operational temperatures, that would facilitate the use of superconductivity in new technologies.
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Motor Competence Is More Strongly Associated with Physical Fitness in Girls Than Boys During the Elementary School Years
Ava RootFaculty mentor: Dr. Louise KellyRead abstractHide abstract
PURPOSE: To show sex differences in FMS and fitness and to be able to evaluate associations between motor competence and fitness within the sexes.
METHODS: 220 children aged 4-11 years 109 boys and 111 girls) participated in the study. Age-adjusted ANCOVAs evaluated sex differences in the FMS competence and fitness scores. There were partial correlations and sex stratified regressions were used to evaluate the associations between motor competence and the fitness of the children.
RESULTS: Boys had a significantly greater object control competence (p< .001, partial η²=0.113) and total FMS competence (p< .001, partial η² =0.071) but there were no sex differences when it came to locomotor competence (p = .918) or total fitness (p = .058). Girls-only associations revealed total FMS competence was positively associated with overall fitness (r=0.240, adjusted p=0.044), push-ups (r=0.236, adjusted =0.044), and sit-and-reach (r= 0.349, adjusted p= 0.002).
CONCLUSION: Boys demonstrated greater object-control and total FMS competence; however, motor competence was more strongly associated with physical fitness among girls. These findings support school-based interventions targeting FMS development, particularly object-control skills among girls.
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Optimizing the Overexpression and Purification of E467Q Variant of DesD for Structural and Mechanistic Characterization
Linda SaidiFaculty mentor: Dr. Katherine HoffmannRead abstractHide abstract
Antibiotic resistance is an increasing threat to global health. As traditional discovery pipelines lagged behind the rise of resistance mechanisms, there is a need to develop drugs against new molecular targets essential to bacterial resistance and virulence.Nonribosomal peptide synthesis independent siderophore (NIS) synthetases are ATP-dependent enzymes that catalyze the biosynthesis of siderophores, iron-scavenging molecules that contribute to bacterial survival and virulence. DesD is a model NIS synthetase involved in the biosynthesis of the hydroxamate siderophore desferrioxamine E and provides an opportunity to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying ATP-dependent siderophore assembly. Previous structural and biochemical studies of DesD identified Glu467 as a potentially important catalytic residue involved in ATP-dependent catalysis.
We investigate the role of Glu467 using the E467Q DesD variant, in which the negatively charged carboxylate group of glutamate is replaced by the amide group of glutamine. Because glutamine retains a similar side-chain size and geometry while lacking the glutamate carboxylate, E467Q provides a means to further examine the proposed catalytic role of Glu467. We hypothesize that this substitution will alter ATP-dependent catalysis while preserving aspects of the active-site geometry . Our objectives are to optimize over-expression and purification of E467Q DesD and subsequently characterize the variant using kinetic, thermodynamic, and structural approaches.
Efforts have focused on troubleshooting E. coli overexpression and purification of E467Q DesD. Multiple expression and purification conditions were evaluated to identify factors affecting protein production and recovery. These preliminary studies have established challenges associated with obtaining sufficient soluble, purified E467Q DesD for downstream characterization and have guided optimization of the experimental workflow. Following successful protein production, isothermal titration calorimetry and kinetic analyses will be used to characterize ATP-dependent activity, while protein crystallization will be pursued to determine how the E467Q substitution affects active-site structure and catalytic component positioning.
This work will establish the experimental foundation necessary to define the contribution of Glu467 to the catalytic mechanism of DesD. Comparison of E467Q with wild-type and previously studied E467A DesD will ultimately help distinguish the structural and chemical roles of Glu467 in ATP-dependent catalysis and advance the mechanistic understanding of NIS synthetases as potential targets for antimicrobial development.
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Race, Ethnicity, and Socioeconomic Differences in Sport-Related Concussion Characteristics and Recovery Among U.S. Military Service Academy Cadets: A CARE Consortium Study
Miguel BolioFaculty mentor: Dr.Louise KellyRead abstractHide abstract
Background: Prior studies using data from the NCAA-Department of Defense Concussion
Assessment, Research and Education (CARE) Consortium have shown small variations in Sports-
Related-Concussions (SRC) features and recovery in college student-athletes based on race and
SES. If these differences also exist in service academy athletes is yet to be determined.
Purpose:To examine differences in SRC presentation, management, and recovery by race,
ethnicity, and SES among U.S. military service academy athletes enrolled in the CARE
Consortium.
Methods:Any athlete that completes a baseline and sustains an SRC will be included in this
study. Data collected will include past concussions, acute symptoms, delayed symptoms,
removal from play immediately after injury, length of symptoms, time to become asymptomatic
and return to play unrestricted. We will use multivariable models to see if there is any
association between race, ethnicity, SES and SRC. These models will also control for other
factors that could affect concussion recovery.
Expected Results:We believe there will be minimal variation in SRC based on race, ethnicity and
SES. Length of symptoms and time to become asymptomatic should be similar. We may see
some variation in acute symptoms and removal from play immediately after injury. Since all
service academy athletes have similar medical resources available to them, we expect the
effect of SES to be diminished when compared to NCAA athletes.
Conclusion:This study will determine whether sociodemographic differences observed among
NCAA athletes persist within the structured service academy environment and may clarify the
role of healthcare access and institutional context in equitable concussion management.
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Relationships between foraminifera, water quality, and human impact in Carpinteria Salt Marsh
Sage O'NeillFaculty mentor: Dr. Megan FungRead abstractHide abstract
Our research examines several taxa of benthic foraminifera, dominated by Trochammina inflata, Siphotrochammina lobata,_ _and _Miliammina spp._, from six surface sediment samples collected in January 2026 from Carpinteria Salt Marsh in Carpinteria, California. Water quality parameters, including temperature, dissolved oxygen, specific conductivity, salinity, pH, and turbidity, were measured at each sampling location at the time of collection. In addition, the proximity of each site to a potential source of anthropogenic impact (e.g., the railroad tracks adjacent to the marsh) was recorded as a possible influence on water quality and foraminiferal distribution. Results show a general increase in foraminiferal abundance (#Forams/ml) with increasing salinity across the sampling sites as we move away from the railroad tracks. The exception to this relationship is Site 1 (closest to the railroad tracks) which has the lowest salinity but the highest foraminiferal abundance (11.6/ml). This suggests that salinity influences foraminiferal assemblage distribution but is not the only controlling factor. Foraminiferal abundance also demonstrates a positive relationship with turbidity, which may indicate that higher turbidity is associated with environmental conditions favorable for our identified taxa. Across all sites, the 150–250 µm size fraction contained the highest percentage of recovered individuals, whereas specimens larger than 425 µm represented only a small proportion of the total assemblage. By examining benthic foraminiferal assemblages in relation to water quality parameters and potential sources of anthropogenic influence, this study provides a better understanding of the environmental factors affecting the distribution of foraminifera in Carpinteria Salt Marsh and establishes a baseline for future monitoring of environmental changes.
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Relationships between foraminifera, water quality, and human impact in Carpinteria Salt Marsh
Sage O'NeillFaculty mentor: Dr. Megan FungRead abstractHide abstract
Our research examines several taxa of benthic foraminifera, dominated by Trochammina inflata, Siphotrochammina lobata,_ _and _Miliammina spp._, from six surface sediment samples collected in January 2026 from Carpinteria Salt Marsh in Carpinteria, California. Water quality parameters, including temperature, dissolved oxygen, specific conductivity, salinity, pH, and turbidity, were measured at each sampling location at the time of collection. In addition, the proximity of each site to a potential source of anthropogenic impact (e.g., the railroad tracks adjacent to the marsh) was recorded as a possible influence on water quality and foraminiferal distribution. Results show a general increase in foraminiferal abundance (#Forams/ml) with increasing salinity across the sampling sites as we move away from the railroad tracks. The exception to this relationship is Site 1 (closest to the railroad tracks) which has the lowest salinity but the highest foraminiferal abundance (11.6/ml). This suggests that salinity influences foraminiferal assemblage distribution but is not the only controlling factor. Foraminiferal abundance also demonstrates a positive relationship with turbidity, which may indicate that higher turbidity is associated with environmental conditions favorable for our identified taxa. Across all sites, the 150–250 µm size fraction contained the highest percentage (68.4%-82.3%) of recovered individuals, whereas specimens larger than 425 µm represented only a small proportion (0.3%-2.5%) of the total assemblage. By examining benthic foraminiferal assemblages in relation to water quality parameters and potential sources of anthropogenic influence, this study provides a better understanding of the environmental factors affecting the distribution of foraminifera in Carpinteria Salt Marsh and establishes a baseline for future monitoring of environmental changes.
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Religiosity, Political Preferences, and Political Participation Among Undergraduate Students at Religiously Affiliated Universities
Grace BeltranFaculty mentor: Dr. Khrystyne WilsonRead abstractHide abstract
Religion has historically influenced political attitudes and civic behavior amongst individuals in the United States. However, the relationship between religiosity, political preferences, and political participation is complex, particularly among undergraduate students developing political and religious identities during emerging adulthood. Although prior research has examined the influence and correlation between religious and political identities among college students, limited research has focused specifically on students attending religiously affiliated institutions. This study examined the associations between religiosity, political preferences, and political participation among undergraduate students currently attending religiously affiliated institutions. It was hypothesized that higher levels of religiosity are associated with more conservative political preferences and beliefs among undergraduate students, and that students with lower levels of religiosity are more likely to engage in alternative forms of political participation and activism. Using a quantitative, survey-based correlational design, data were collected from a sample of 52 undergraduate students (ages 18 to 23 years) in California through an anonymous online survey. Spearman rank-order correlations and chi-square tests of independence were used to examine associations between religiosity and political behavior. Results indicated a positive association between religiosity and conservative political ideology (ρ = .432, p = .002). Lower religiosity was also significantly associated with greater online political engagement (ρ = −.515, p < .001), political discussion (ρ = −.286, p = .040), and protest participation (χ²(1) = 5.99, p = .014). Findings supported the first hypothesis and partially supported the second, suggesting that religiosity is associated with political preferences and varies across forms of political engagement.
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Seasonal Distribution on Ostracods
Desiree ReyesFaculty mentor: Dr. Megan FungRead abstractHide abstract
Seasonal Distribution of Ostracods
Many microorganisms are widely used as proxies for seasonal biomonitoring research.This
project analyzes ostracod presence in the Carpinteria Salt Marsh across 5 different sampling
locations along the Santa Monica Creek Channel during two sampling events: winter (January
2026) and spring (May 2026). Surface sediment samples (uppermost 1 cm) were taken at each
site using a plastic cylinder of a standard sample size (8cm in diameter). Triplicate samples
were taken at each site along with in situ water quality data. Each sample was stained with an
ethanol and rose Bengal mixture immediately after collection in order to identify the living
ostracods at time of collection. In the laboratory, samples are put through a series of sieves that
are separated by size fraction (i.e., 425um, 250um, and 150um). Distribution among sizes, as
well as whole vs half valve ostracods are compared between the sites. Ostracod numbers from
May are compared to January numbers to better understand the impact of seasonal variation. In
May, we saw an overall increase in ostracods, with the amount surpassing foraminifera counts.
The analysis of these ostracods, including their seasonal distribution, provide important
information on the overall health of the environment they inhabit. The overall study of these
bioindicators helps us to identify patterns and changes in the marsh that help us implement
strategies for the continued preservation of marsh ecosystems.
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Serving Latino Catholics: Parish Responses to Demographic Change
Negeen MohsenFaculty mentor: Dr. Kiku HuckleRead abstractHide abstract
This research examines what factors influence how well Catholic parishes respond to Latino Catholics, and how patterns have changed over time. The study compares Catholic parishes in Manhattan, San Antonio, Seattle, and Yakima using data from 2014 and 2023. Three main measures of Latino ministry are examined: Spanish Mass, Latino-focused services, and Latino ministers. The findings show that all three measures increased over time, but the patterns varied considerably across the four cities. The analysis also shows that Latino leadership and local context are important for understanding parish responsiveness.
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Singing Together: Rituals of Collective Habit Formation that Illuminate St. Paul’s Strategies for Community Building
Rachel GlynnFaculty mentor: Dr Julia FoggRead abstractHide abstract
This study asks how communal singing may have functioned as a strategy for community building in first century Christian communities. Contemporary neurocognitive research on communal singing demonstrates that singing together synchronizes physiological processes, strengthens social bonds, accelerates feelings of belonging, and supports shared emotional experiences. This study applies such neurocognitive findings as physiological synchrony, neurochemical bonding, collective identity formation, and emotional co-regulation to Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. Using this neurocognitive lens, Paul's instruction to Ephesian Christians to address one another through "psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs" suggests that singing had a role in Paul's strategy to encourage unity, reconciliation, and mutual participation in the Ephesian church as "one body." That is, Paul's emphasis on singing may have functioned as more than just encouraging worship. This study invites further study of first century singing in Pauline communities, suggesting that singing together provided an embodied practice through which culturally and ethnically diverse Christians could experience shared identity, strengthen interpersonal trust, and participate in the theological unity Paul envisioned.
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Understanding Public Knowledge of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Exposure to GLP-1 Related Information and its Association with Knowledge and Body Satisfaction
Athena PerezFaculty mentor: Dr. Jodie KocurRead abstractHide abstract
GLP-1 medications are currently an effective, widely used class of drugs for weight loss, approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (FDA, 2026). One in eight Americans currently takes a GLP-1 medication, and one in five Americans report they have taken a GLP-1 medication at some point in their life (Palosky, 2025). This growing interest in the population raises concerns about the accuracy of information the public receives about GLP-1 medications, how often they are exposed to this information, and whether exposure to this type of medication is related to increases in body dissatisfaction. The purpose of this study is to understand where the public receives their information about GLP-1 medications, the frequency of exposure to that information, and what information they have received regarding GLP-1 medications' side effects and benefits. Additionally, this study will investigate the association between exposure to this information and body dissatisfaction. Participants will be recruited via Prolific, an online research participation website, and will be over the age of 18. Participants will complete a 12-item questionnaire on Qualtrics. Data will be analyzed utilizing descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Pearson correlation analyses. Results will provide a better understanding regarding the public’s knowledge about GLP-1 medications and whether that information is connected to body dissatisfaction.
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What are the Main Drivers of Housing Insecurity for Latinos Living in Ventura County?
Giovanni AguirreFaculty mentor: Dr. Kiku HuckleRead abstractHide abstract
Latino homelessness in the U.S. has drastically increased over the past decade, increasing 28% from 2022 to 2023 alone. This trend is also notable in Ventura County, where the Latino unhoused population increased from ~30% in 2018 to ~50% after COVID-19. The reason for these numbers has yet to be studied because current research focuses on larger urban areas. Even national homelessness studies rarely focus on Latinos due to their unconventional tendencies; Latinos do not behave in traditional street homelessness or utilize homeless shelters. Instead, Latinos see couch surfing or doubling up as alternatives to accessing public resources. My project works to identify the main drivers of housing insecurity among Latinos in Ventura County. Based on national research findings, I hypothesized that homelessness is caused by low public service utilization, which is influenced by cultural barriers, language barriers, or attitudinal barriers that contribute to Latino homelessness in Ventura County. I gathered data via interviews with local government agencies, officials, and grassroots organizations. I found little support for my hypotheses, as Latinos tend to utilize public services at a higher level than other populations and are motivated to apply for government programs. Per interviewees, the primary causes of Latino homelessness are low wages and price hikes in housing stock. These issues continue to fuel couch surfing, doubling up, and traditional homelessness within the local Latino community. My research reveals the importance of examining regional patterns when investigating Latino housing insecurity. Previous studies overlook local issues such as the severity of staggering farmworker wages and low housing stock on Latino families.