Honors College
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Item Restricted COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT INSECTICIDE EXPOSURE METHODS TO ASSESS INSECTICIDE RESISTANCE IN MOSQUITOES(2025-04-28) Rush, Emma SuzanneMosquito issues related to pathogen transmission and nuisance are handled by mosquito control programs throughout North Carolina and elsewhere. Field trials are a common method for evaluating the efficacy of insecticide-formulated products (FP); however, this method is cumbersome, expensive, and labor-intensive. A novel compact wind tunnel used in a laboratory setting was developed as an alternative method for evaluating FP efficacy and mosquito mortality was compared between the field trial and wind tunnel methods of exposure. Two different FP (Biomist® 3+15 and Duet®) were applied to wild and laboratory populations of Aedes albopictus and Culex pipiens/quinquefasciatus. The field trial included FP application via truck-mounted ultra-low volume (ULV) equipment to caged mosquitoes set up in a 9 x 3 grid with 100 ft distances between rows of stations. Mosquitoes were transferred to clean cages immediately post-exposure, incubated at 28°C, and mortality monitored for 36 h. Wind tunnel experiments consisted of exposing each replicate mosquito cage to aerosolized FP for 10 s, following the same post-exposure methods as in the field trial. Mosquito knockdown was recorded 2 h post-exposure, and mortality was recorded at 36 h. Mosquito mortality in the group exposed to FP at 100 ft (closest location to ULV treatment) during the field trial was similar (p>0.05) to mosquitoes exposed in the wind tunnel for Biomist® and Duet®. Mosquito mortality in the group exposed to FP 200 ft and 300 ft from the field trial spray line was similar to the wind tunnel for Duet®, but significantly lower than wind tunnel results for Biomist® (200 ft: p=0.019, 300 ft: p=0.049). There was nearly 100% mortality in the lab Ae. albopictus, wild Ae. albopictus, and lab Cx. pipiens/quinquefasciatus for Biomist® and Duet® in the wind tunnel, but field trial results varied depending on distance from the spray line and mosquito population. Wild Cx. pipiens/quinquefasciatus showed insecticide resistance in both the field trial and wind tunnel experiments for all tested FP. Based on these results, the wind tunnel could be used as a screening step for FP or a potential alternative testing method when field trials are not possible.Item Restricted Investigating the role of microRNAs on the transgenerational effects of nicotine using Caenorhabditis elegans(2025-05-01) Woollen, Victoria RoseThis project aims to investigate the effects of nicotine, the highly addictive and toxic substance in tobacco-based products, has on offspring (1st and 2nd generations, F1 and F2) using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). C. elegans are microscopic nematode worms that are used as a model organism to study epigenetic effects passed down through generations. Due to their transparency, small size, and cellular simplicity, researchers can easily observe the internal structures and processes of C. elegans. To characterize nicotine-dependence, our lab looks at three behaviors: stimulation, adaption, and withdrawal. We hypothesize that maternal nicotine exposure (F0 generation) increases susceptibility to nicotine dependence in F1 and F2 generations. To test this, F0 worms were exposed to a 61.7 µM nicotine solution or a vehicle control (K medium) at the L3 larval stage for 24 hours, then the behaviors were observed in F0, F1, and F2 generations, where the F1 and F2 generations were not exposed to nicotine. Locomotion behaviors were analyzed using WormLab. For nicotine-exposed worms, an increased speed in a nicotine-free environment indicates withdrawal, while a lower locomotion speed in nicotine-containing environment indicates nicotine adaption. To explore miRNA-mediated molecular mechanisms, RNA interference with the miRNA inhibitor anti-cel-miR-1 will knock down miR-1, which regulates nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) expression. Behavioral changes in miRNA inhibitor and nicotine co-treated worms will be compared to nicotine-only treated worms and vehicle controls. Statistical analyses of locomotion behaviors revealed transgenerational inheritance of nicotine-dependent behaviors and the important role of miRNA-1 in nicotine-dependent behaviors. With miR-1 inhibition in F0 generation, the nicotine-dependent behavior was cured in F0 and the following F1 and F2 generations. This represents an important finding in the mechanism of nicotine-dependent behaviors and potentially applies to the development of future miRNA-mediated therapeutic strategies.Item Restricted Identification of Actin Mutants with Neurodegenerative Disease-Like Phenotypes Via Mutagensis of the Actin-ATP Interface(2025-04-30) Becton, MaeleeCofilin-actin rods are a well-documented stress response in neuronal cells and their persistence is frequently associated with neurodegenerative disease. However, the role of specific actin residues in promoting the formation of cofilin-actin rods and other anomalous cytoskeletal structures is largely unknown. As it is increasingly suspected that specific mutations and post-translation modifications of actin may promote neurodegenerative disease, characterizing the role of these residues in cytoskeletal dysregulation is highly relevant. In this study, we focus on the actin-ATP interface, which has been proposed as a key mediator of cofilin-actin rod formation and the propensity of actin to respond to cellular stress. Using a light and stress-gated reporter of cofilin-actin cluster formation, we determine the impact of mutants associated with Actin-ATP binding on the propensity of actin to form anomalous structures in the presence and absence of applied cellular stress. This study identifies actin mutants that promote anomalous actin inclusions in HeLa cells and characterizes the manifestation of these phenotypes in cortical neurons. Mutations to the ATP phosphate tail-binding region of actin (K18A, D154A, G158L, K213A) were found to be particularly disruptive to actin phenotypes, and in several instances promote disease-associated actin-rich structures such as cofilin-actin rods and Hirano bodies. We find that these mutant phenotypes are largely consistent between cell types and display highly unusual inclusions in cultured cortical neuron, without leading to nuclear fragmentation and apoptotic death of the transfected cells. These mutants strengthen the association of residue-specific changes in actin with large-scale phenotypic and functional changes in the cytoskeleton, further implicating them in neurodegenerative disease progression.Item Restricted Exploring The Possible Correlation Between Levator Origin Distance and Craniofacial Syndrome Diagnosis.(2025-04-22) Jones, Loghan Katherine-LeeAuthors: Loghan Jones; Imani R. Gilbert, MS; Samantha J. Power, MS; Taylor D. Snodgrass, MS; Jamie L. Perry, PhD Title: Exploring the possible correlation between levator origin distance and craniofacial syndrome diagnosis. Introduction/Background: Velopharyngeal closure is a phenomenon that occurs during oral speech production and swallowing. This closure is primarily completed through retraction and elevation of a velopharyngeal muscle known as the levator veli palatini muscle. The levator veli palatini (LVP) muscle originates from the petrous portion of the temporal bones and then inserts into the velum (Perry, 2011). Literature has suggested that the distance between the two originating portions of the LVP may be highly correlated to craniofacial syndromes (i.e., 22q11.2. deletion syndrome); however, this study had a small sample size (i.e., n=15) and only included one craniofacial syndrome (Kollara et al., 2019). As the LVP origin-to-origin distance measurement has been shown to be significantly shorter in one craniofacial syndrome compared to healthy peers, the overarching purpose of the present study is to determine if LVP origin to origin distance varies significantly compared to individuals with and without a variety of craniofacial syndromes. Methodology: In accordance with the Institutional Review Boards at the University of East Carolina University, 165 children were enrolled in this study. The control group and the patient group were matched by age (+/- 1 year), sex, and race. MRI data was obtained for each subject. MRI data will be analyzed in Amira 3D Visualization Software in order to obtain measurements related to levator angle of origin and levator origin to origin distance. Results: Data analysis is still ongoing and is expected to be completed by March 2025. Closure: The analysis of the potential relationship between LVP origin distance and craniofacial syndrome diagnosis is an important aspect of cleft and craniofacial care as this correlation can possibly lead to accurate diagnosis of a variety of craniofacial syndromes. By investigating this topic, the quality and efficiency of overall cleft care can be improved. References: Perry, J. L. (2011). Anatomy and physiology of the velopharyngeal mechanism. Seminars in Speech and Language, 17;32;(2), 083-092. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0031-1277712 Kollara, L., Baylis, A. L., Kirschner, R. E., Bates, D. G., Smith, M., Fang, X., & Perry, J. L. (2019). Velopharyngeal Structural and Muscle Variations in Children With 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: An Unsedated MRI Study. The Cleft palate-craniofacial journal : official publication of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association, 56(9), 1139–1148. https://doi.org/10.1177/1055665619851660Item Restricted Facilitators and Barriers to Treatment and Harm Reduction Services for Perinatal Persons with Opioid Use Disorder in North Carolina(2025-04-28) Yang, SusanBackground: Opioids are effective for pain relief but pose risks of dependence, addiction, withdrawal, and overdose. Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) during the perinatal period, defined as pregnancy through the first year after birth, can lead to significant health risks for both perinatal persons and neonates, including neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). Treatment options like methadone and buprenorphine and harm reduction measures such as syringe service programs and Narcan distribution aid those with OUD. They can improve maternal and neonatal health, but stigma and legal fears deter many from seeking help. Addressing barriers and improving access to treatment and harm reduction measures can enhance outcomes for perinatal individuals with OUD. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to identify treatment and harm reduction facilitators and barriers for perinatal persons with OUD in North Carolina. Methods: This qualitative descriptive study utilized secondary data collected in the parent study titled “Exploring Facilitators and Barriers to Harm Reduction Services in North Carolina with An Emphasis on Rural, Historically Marginalized Communities, and Pregnant or Parenting People.” Thematic analysis was used to analyze six (n=6) in-depth interviews with healthcare workers and OUD program staff in North Carolina. Results: Analysis found facilitators to treatment and harm reduction included organizational resources, cross-sector collaborations, transportation, and building rapport with clients. Conversely, barriers to treatment and harm reduction services included lack of funding, restrictions with funds and services, and stigma and fear. Additionally, a notable finding was the lack of involvement by perinatal persons in these programs, likely due to the stigma surrounding perinatal substance use disorder (SUD) and the limited availability of perinatal-specific resources. Discussion: This research identified several facilitators and actionable barriers to treatment and harm reduction for people who use substances in North Carolina. However, a primary finding was that few services are being provided to perinatal persons and their neonates. This research highlights the complexity of providing treatment and harm reduction services for the perinatal population and the need to develop interventions to increase treatment specifically for this population.Item Restricted Investigating Cadmium and Calcium Binding to Full-length Human Cardiac Troponin C Using Intrinsic Fluorescence(2025-04-10) Fields, Ashton GraceCadmium (Cd), a prevalent toxic metal, poses significant health risks even at low exposure levels, particularly affecting cognitive development, kidney function, and cardiovascular health. Previous research has indicated that divalent Cd can bind to and potentially displace divalent calcium (Ca) ions from essential binding proteins, disrupting Ca-dependent cellular signaling pathways. However, there are gaps in the literature regarding how this process occurs at a molecular level. This study aims to characterize the binding affinities of Cd to human cardiac troponin C (hcTnC), a key calcium-binding protein involved in heart muscle contraction, using intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopy. The results demonstrate that Cd binds to hcTnC with significantly higher affinity than Ca, with the first Cd ion binding more tightly than the second, unlike the cooperative binding of Ca. The results of this study enhance our understanding of how Cd interacts with proteins at the molecular level and contribute to the broader body of research on toxic metal interactions. Additionally, this study offers valuable information for developing novel methods to remove Cd from individuals exposed to this toxic metal.Item Restricted Consistency in Clinical Reporting of Nasopharyngoscopy Findings: A Multisite Study(2025-04-17) Stewart, Emma K.Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) is caused by incomplete closure of the velum against the posterior pharyngeal wall during phonation and can cause speech to sound hypernasal. One of the most common imaging methods used to assess VPI is nasopharyngoscopy. However, there are inconsistencies in what is being measured and reported in clinical reports. The International Working Group proposed guidelines for the standardization of clinical scope reports, but these guidelines were not universally adopted. This has resulted in inconsistencies in data reported between cleft teams. 148 clinical scope reports were collected and deidentified from 13 cleft teams. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the proportion of reports that followed the International Working Group’s recommendations. The International Working Group recommended reports include the extent of velar movement, left and right lateral pharyngeal wall (LPW) movement, total percent closure, and the closure pattern. 73.5% (n=109) of reports included the degree of velar movement, 37.8% (n=56) included left and right LPW movement, 73.6% (n=109) reported the total percent closure, and 87.2% (n=129) included the closure pattern. Only 35.1% (n148-52=52) included all four measures. Despite the differences in the measures reported, 65.5% (n=97) of reports recommended a specific surgery to correct the patient’s VPI. The analysis of clinical scope reports revealed variability across cleft teams. Standardizing the information included and how it is reported in scope reports would allow teams to compare treatment outcomes and expanded opportunities for multisite research. By improving consistency in clinical scope reports, cleft teams could increase their quality of patient care.Item Restricted Evaluating Treatment Efficacy of a Novel Nano-Antibiotic against Drug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Planktonic and Biofilm Forms in a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Model(2025-04-30) Garcia, Lauren CBackground: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) is a bacterium often found during advanced stages of muco-obstructive lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis (CF). Patients with COPD hyperaccumulate thick mucus that impairs ciliary movement within the airways. Pa binds to glycosylated mucin proteins in the mucus, which enables Pa to evade antibiotic treatment (i.e., Tobramycin) regardless of frequency or dosage; this forms a favorable environment for recurrent and chronic bacterial lung infections, exacerbated symptoms, and higher mortality rates. Antibiotic treatment failure remains a challenge, contributing to 4.95 million deaths in 2019, globally. Objectives: This study’s objective was to determine the efficacy of amino-functionalized silver nanoparticles (NH2-AgNPs) in inhibiting both planktonic and biofilm forms of Pa growth under low and high mucin environments, mimicking the airway milieu of patients with early and chronic stages of COPD. Methods: PAO1 strain was used for multiple toxicity bioassays, including growth assay, cell leakage assay, resazurin cell viability assay, crystal violet biofilm inhibition assay, and Pierce Bradford protein assay. Results: NH2-AgNPs were significantly inhibitory to both the planktonic and biofilm forms of Pa at ≥1 µg/mL compared to Tobramycin. These results suggest higher potency of NH2-AgNPs over Tobramycin in inhibiting Pa infections in in-vitro COPD model.Item Restricted Exploring Patient Perspectives Through Visual Research(2025-05-02) Watson, Calissa BrookeWhen discussing the major conflicts and public health concerns regarding oral health, one of the main subjects is dental caries in youth. Dental caries is the most common chronic disease among children ages 6-10 years old (CDC). Between the years 2015 and 2016, 45.8% of youth aged 2-19 years had caries (CDC). Of those individuals, the prevalence increased with age. Not only do these youth have caries, but a fraction of the caries are left untreated. 13.0% of youth aged 2-19 years had untreated caries in the primary or permanent teeth (CDC). When analyzing data associated with dental caries in youth and the federal poverty level, it is shown that dental caries increase in youth from families living below the federal poverty level. Preventive care is necessary in preventing dental caries and preventative care can start during the mother’s pregnancy. However, in some cases, this is not occurring and is negatively impacting the mother’s oral health as well as the infants. This research relies heavily on the voices of those being impacted (the pregnant women or mothers of infants) and those who treat the women (health care providers). Photovoice as well as interviews is the main form of gaining qualitative data. Photovoice is a visual research methodology that allows participants to document and present their concerns in vulnerable communities. Participants are able to find their voice through the use of photos. The finalized research will be able to thoroughly discuss the barriers between pregnant women and oral health. The main objective of this research is to understand how social determinants of health (Social and Community Context, Economic Stability, Education Access and Quality, Health Care Access and Quality and Neighborhood and Built Environment) impacts prenatal dental care. This data will help identify barriers and disparities in access to prenatal dental care, inform targeted interventions to improve oral health outcomes for pregnant individuals and their offspring, and guide policy recommendations to enhance equitable healthcare access.Item Restricted Buprenorphine Prescription in North Carolina(2025-04-15) Wood, MadisonA 2022 report from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 75% of overdose deaths involved the use of opioids. Medications such as Buprenorphine, Methadone, and Naltrexone can be used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD), and they are referred to as medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Buprenorphine acts as a partial opioid agonist, binding to opioid receptors in the brain and activating them less than a full agonist (e.g., heroin, oxycodone, fentanyl, morphine). This can decrease an individual's reliance on stronger opioids. Increasing the accessibility of Buprenorphine among individuals with OUD is essential to decreasing the prevalence of overdose-related deaths. In June 2023, the Mainstreaming Addiction Treatment Act decreased barriers and eliminated the x-waiver requirement for clinicians to prescribe Buprenorphine. The purpose of this study is to examine the prevalence of Buprenorphine prescription among clinicians in Pitt County, North Carolina, after the x-waiver was eliminated in June 2023. Due to the MAT act and x-waiver elimination, we hypothesize that the prevalence of Buprenorphine prescription will have increased since June 2023. Data was obtained through a convergent mixed methods Qualtrics survey. The survey design was largely based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Science (CFIR). Survey constructs included employment demographics, attitudes toward Buprenorphine prescription, Buprenorphine prescription prevalence, the impact of the x-waiver, infrastructure, barriers to prescribing Buprenorphine, and personal demographics. Clinicians were identified using the North Carolina Medical Board roster. Respondents consisted of Medical Doctors, Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, and Physician Assistants, currently practicing in Pitt County. A recruitment letter outlining the study was sent to clinicians identified from the roster. The recruitment timeline was based on the Dillman Method, which assists with maximizing response rates. Data was analyzed using the SPSS statistics software. Descriptive statistics were applied to summarize the data both graphically and numerically. Qualitative data analysis was analyzed using a combination of deductive and inductive approaches. When assessing the impact of the x-waiver elimination on buprenorphine prescription prevalence, it was concluded that most participants (N = 23; 78.3% Medical Doctors, 65.2% white, 56.5% male) indicated no change in buprenorphine prescription since the x-waiver was eliminated in June 2023. When asked if their buprenorphine prescription habits had changed since June 2023, 13.0% were unsure if their prescription habits had changed, and 8.7% reported prescribing more buprenorphine. No clinicians stated they were prescribing less buprenorphine since the elimination of the x-waiver. Findings demonstrate that buprenorphine prescription habits did not change amongst the sample after the x-waiver was eliminated. A comprehensive approach combining education for clinicians and patients, addressing systemic gaps, and stigma influencing attitudes for MOUD treatment is needed to further improve buprenorphine prescription prevalence.Item Restricted Young Adult Athletes’ Psychological Distress Differences by Level and Gender Identity(2025-02-28) Parrish, Maegan BThe young adult population has the highest percentage of new mental health diagnoses (Edwards & Froehle, 2023). Collegiate sports – Club and DI level – introduce additional demands and stressors, including heavy workloads, performance anxiety, and balancing time demands (Edwards et al., 2023; Peacock, 2022). Women student-athletes have shown a higher prevalence of psychological distress symptoms than men (Wolanin, et al., 2016). Researchers have primarily focused on psychological distress of NCAA athletes rather than Club athletes (Martin, et al., 2021). Therefore, this study explored the differences in psychological distress prevalence between athletes’ level and gender identity. Participants for this cross-sectional study included 459 student-athletes: 254 (54%) DI athletes (95 men; 159 women) and 207 Club athletes (83 men; 122 women). These student-athletes were asked to provide demographic information (e.g., gender identity, sport) while completing a mental health screening, including anxiety and depression symptomology levels measured, respectively, by the General Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire-2 (GAD-2) and Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2), which are, validated brief versions of the GAD-7 and PHQ-9. The total scores align with classifications for clinical (3-6), subclinical (2), and minimal (0-1) symptoms. The chi-square analyses were used to evaluate differences in the prevalence of clinical, subclinical, and minimal levels of depression and anxiety across athletic level and gender. There were no significant differences in prevalence by gender. By athlete level, there was a significantly higher prevalence of subclinical anxiety (26%) among DI athletes compared to Club athletes (7%). As well as a significantly higher prevalence of subclinical depression (18%) among DI athletes compared to Club athletes (6%). Though no other differences were significant, compared to Club athletes, nearly twice as many DI athletes had clinical level anxiety symptoms and three times as many had clinical level depression symptoms. Thus, it can be concluded there is a higher prevalence of psychological distress among DI athletes compared to their Club peers. This may illustrate the effect of having greater sports performance related stress and time constraints on students’ mental health symptoms. These findings support the increasing trend and requirements for NCAA DI Athletics Departments having embedded sport psychologists and mental health counselors.Item Restricted Barriers to Resistance Training in College Women(2025-03-10) Brockman, KendallThis study examined the barriers college women faced in engaging in strength training at fitness facilities in similar numbers to male students, thus showing the needs of women regarding college campus recreation spaces. Understanding the barriers of resistance training for women allows for a future intervention that will aim to increasing the number of women engaging in resistance training. This study recruited from multiple universities and determined what encouraged college-aged women to strength train and what may not have encouraged college-aged women to strength train. Participants were recruited through email, flyer, and social media across multiple universities (N = 33). Demographic measures included age, race, grade classification, university currently attended, weight, height, zip code, Greek life affiliation, first generation, residential category (on-campus, off-campus, or commuter), major, and career goals. In the previous exercise experience section, participants were asked if they currently exercised, as well as how many times per week they utilized a fitness facility. In the barriers to strength training section, participants rated 12 questions (adapted from Peters et al., 2018) on a scale from 1 to 5, with 1 being strongly disagree, and 5 being strongly agree. These statements covered social, time, physical, and experiential barriers. SPSS descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. The barriers to strength training data was analyzed using mean and standard deviation of total responses. The most prominent category of barriers among participants were time. The largest individual barrier was “I feel uncomfortable in a crowded gym” (4.1 ± 1.1). The least impactful category of barriers was experiential. The least impactful single barrier was “my friends will think I’m weird” (1.7 ± 0.8). The mean and standard deviation of each barrier type was measured. Social barriers had a mean and standard deviation of 3.2 ± 1.4. Time barriers had a mean and standard deviation of 3.5 ± 1.0. Physical barriers had a mean and standard deviation of 3.3 ± 1.2. Finally, experiential barriers had a mean and standard deviation of 2.9 ± 1.4. Resistance training has several benefits regarding mental health, cardiovascular health, body composition, and other significant health markers. By understanding that time, or perceived time, is the most prominent barrier for college aged-women resistance training, more effective interventions could be staged to create a healthier community. Creating new ways to get women more involved in resistance training begins with understanding the needs of the population. From this research, a better understanding of the current barriers to RT in college women can allow for changes in the way Universities market their fitness facilities. By focusing on the positive impact short bouts of exercise and resistance training have on mental and physical health, more women may be encouraged to use the facilities for resistance training. The least perceived barrier from this study was experiential. Currently, funds and marketing efforts are largely spent on experiential barriers. By redirecting some of these funds and efforts to education regarding shorter bouts of exercise, and how to fit them into a working day, a greater impact could be achieved.Item Restricted MOBILE SENSORIMOTOR INTEGRATION ASSESSMENT IN SOCCER PLAYERS(2025-05-01) Rollins, KyrstinBackground: The purpose of this study is to establish metrics that work in the field to promptly identify and evaluate the level of sensorimotor integration impairment incurred by repetitive sub-concussive loading (RSCL). Repeated head impacts, even without clinical symptoms of mTBI, can cause neurocognitive and neurophysiological impairments. In contact sports, repetitive sub-concussive impacts may lead to mTBI-like deficits, increasing the risk of neurological injury, cognitive decline, and CTE. One study found CTE in 41.4% of contact sport athletes under 30 at death. With many neurological injuries going undetected, developing a rapid, in-field assessment is crucial to prevent further damage. We hypothesize that the use of wireless sensorimotor integration measurements can be harnessed to objectively evaluate sensorimotor integration following periods of exposure to RSCL in the field. Methods: Our approach is to integrate wireless measures of postural control, oculomotor control, and cortical activation with virtual reality (VR) to provide a comprehensive assessment of sensorimotor integration function, independent of a lab setting, following a single period of exposure to RSCL. Twenty participants will be chosen who are ages 18-50 who currently play, or have played within the past two years, organized soccer with no diagnosed concussions within the past year and no lower extremity injuries within the past three months. These participants will be outfitted with a Pedar in-hoe pressure distribution and gTEC EEG systems after consent is obtained. They will then participate in the pretest using the wireless measures listed above. Next, the participants will take part in the RSCL exposure period. For the RSCL exposure period, soccer players will engage in a heading training protocol. Following completion of the heading protocol, participants will be re-tested using the same measures in the pre-test. Expected Results: We expect to see a difference in the sensorimotor integration measures before and after the RSCL exposure period. More specifically, we expect to see results similar to what is seen following concussion. The RSCL exposure data will help to develop a portable sensorimotor integration system for real-time impairment assessment after RSCL incidents in field settings. This system could help prevent neurological injury in sports, military, and other environments while also aiding in the evaluation of conditions like Parkinson’s disease and stroke.Item Restricted An MRI Analysis: Is There a Correlation Between Bihamular Distance and Intravelar Levator Veli Palatini Length?(2025-04-15) Mountz, AbigalThe purpose of this study was to determine if there is a correlation between bihamular distance and the intravelar segment of the LVP muscle, potentially providing a better understanding of intravelar segment length.Item Open Access Senior Illustration Show: Tales yo Astonish(2025-05-01) Lobo, Alexander GThis paper explores the conceptualization, development, and execution of my senior illustration exhibition, a deeply personal collection that reflects both my growth as an artist and individual. Through editorial illustration, I address topics ranging from the complexities of healthcare and political disillusionment to the emotional challenges of hair loss and childhood insecurities. Each piece utilizes bold color choices, metaphor, and exaggerated visual storytelling to create meaningful, resonant imagery. Rooted in my lifelong passion for picture-making, this body of work captures human moments with humor, vulnerability, and intention. The exhibition not only showcases my artistic voice but also represents my ability to connect with audiences through visual narratives that are both specific and universally relatable. This reflective process has solidified my identity as an illustrator and has prepared me for the professional world beyond the university setting.Item Open Access IMPACT OF FATIGUE ON POSTURAL STABILITY AND BRAIN WAVE ACTIVITY(2025-05-02) langleym21@students.ecu.edu, MakaylaBACKGROUND: To maintain postural control, the brain is required to integrate visual and sensory information within the sensorimotor systems. Increases in fall risk are influenced by many factors such as age, fatigue, and neural dysfunction (e.g., Parkinson’s Disease). While it is known these factors increase fall risk, the relationship between fatigue and neurological function in postural control is still unclear and the effects of fatigue are still unknown. The aim of this study was to directly analyze the effects of neural brain activity and postural control of healthy individuals following volitional fatigue. METHODS: Nine healthy participants, ages 18 to 38, were chosen. Individuals with any previous history of concussions or major lower-extremity injuries were excluded as these conditions may affect postural control. After providing informed consent, the participants were outfitted with a Pedar in-sole pressure distribution system and a g-tec EEG system. The pre-test consisted of three trials, each involving 30 seconds of standing with eyes open and 30 seconds with eyes closed. After, the participant was asked to wear an HTC VIVE virtual reality (VR) headset and do three rounds of 30 seconds in the VR still room, 30 seconds in the VR moving room, and 30 seconds in recovery after the moving room. Next, they underwent a volitional fatigue protocol. Fatigue was defined as reaching a rate of perceived exertion (RPE) of 13 or 76% of their target heart rate. Once the fatigue protocol was completed, the pre-fatigue protocol was repeated to assess any changes in the force plate and brain activity. Data was processed using customized MATLAB scripts and EEGLAB, and a repeated-measures ANOVA was conducted to compare pre- and post-fatigue indicators. RESULTS: Fatigue will impair postural control and increase neural activity in brain regions responsible for balance. These effects are shown to be more pronounced during a visual perturbation and when sensory information is inaccurate.Item Embargo Supporting Education Through the Growth of the ECU School of Hospitality Leadership Food & Wine Festival(2025-05-06) Stephenson, BrookeThe ECU School of Hospitality Leadership Food and Wine Festival is an annual event designed to provide invaluable hands-on learning experience for students, while also celebrating culinary flavors and fostering community engagement. Since the first event in 2023, the festival has grown steadily, both in scale and impact, becoming a cornerstone event for the hospitality department. This project was developed as a part of the School of Hospitality Leadership to emphasize multi-discipline collaboration with event planning, marketing, management, and execution. The primary focus of this project is the festival’s ability to sustain and expand the SHL scholarship fund, which supports our students pursuing their degrees in hospitality management. The 2025 festival, happening on March 28th, will showcase the continued growth of the event, enhancing the attendee experience. This presentation will highlight the festival’s evolution over the years, examining factors contributing to its growth, including innovative planning strategies, increased marketing, and enhanced student involvement. By analyzing ticket sales, attendee feedback, and sponsorship contributions, this project will explore the future growth potential for the festival. Moreover, this project will examine the festival’s impact on education, as it serves as a department-wide project for SHL students. By actively participating in the festival students can apply the knowledge they have learned in the classroom and develop crucial skills in leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. These opportunities not only enhance the student’s understanding of hospitality concepts but also prepare them to enter the competitive industry. The ECU School of Hospitality Leadership Food and Wine Festival is more than just an event; it is a platform that bridges education and industry, providing students with hands-on experience. As the festival continues to grow, its dual focus on education and fundraising ensures that it continues to be a transformative event for students and a celebrated tradition throughout the SHL department and university as a whole. This presentation will showcase how the festival serves as a model for innovative, student-led initiatives that combine education, community involvement, and philanthropy, while also exploring its long-term impact on the growth and success of the School of Hospitality Leadership and its students.Item Open Access The Traits of Approval: Leadership Trait Theory Analysis as a Predictor of American Presidential Approval Ratings(2025-05-09) Bronson, Emily PaigeThis honors thesis is a project that shows statistical significance between leadership traits of American presidents and their approval ratings in a time-series like project. This project takes seemingly subjective leadership traits and assigns them numeric meaning using Leadership Trait Analysis piloted by Margaret Herman's scholarship. It required a new codebook and leadership analysis research model that the author of this project created, which can be further used to better presidential, federal, state and municipal candidacy.Item Open Access A COMPREHENSIVE REFLECTION OF THE IMPACT IN UTILIZING SIMULATION IN TEACHING OBSTETRICS TO UNDERGRADUATE NURSING STUDENTS(2025-05-01) HANSLEYA21, Anyla JacquelineThe Bachelor of Nursing program at the East Carolina University College of Nursing currently provides obstetrical clinical at four hospitals throughout eastern North Carolina accommodating an average of 120 clinical students per semester. The hospitals range from small community hospitals to a tertiary care medical center. The diverse locations offer students varied opportunities to immerse themselves in obstetrics. While these clinical rotations offer invaluable learning opportunities for the students, many students lack clinical exposure to many of the more complex intrapartum concepts and complications. To ensure that students can apply these intrapartum concepts to real life patient care scenarios, a study is underway to assess the impact of a complex vaginal delivery simulation on the learning of the undergraduate nursing students in the obstetrics class. This initiative seeks to integrate critical thinking by utilizing feedback surveys from students to assess learning outcomes among undergraduate nursing students enrolled in obstetrics.Item Open Access EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF A MOTHER’S HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT ON HER CHILD’S HEALTH IN UTERO AND PERSONAL HEALTH OUTCOMES(2025-04-28) Throckmorton, Alia MarieIt is clear that the number of pregnancy complications and maternal mortality rates are rising, and healthcare is thoroughly concerned with treating complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes once they arise. However, healthcare practitioners would benefit from a shift to focus more energy on providing women with education regarding risk reduction prior to and during pregnancy. If we can improve our overall health and particularly health during pregnancy, it will lead to a decrease in complications and a reduction of risk factors. In order to make improvements and changes, both practitioners and pregnant patients need to be educated on what lifestyle factors affect the health of a pregnancy and how to optimize their health during pregnancy. Significant strides are needed in patient education, and this study aims to serve as a resource for pregnant women and healthcare providers, including Obstetricians (OB), Registered Nurses (RN), and Midwives, to enhance their knowledge and educate their patients effectively. This study will review the literature on preventing the complications previously mentioned through diet, exercise, mental health interventions, trauma informed care and more. The goal of this study is to summarize how lifestyle choices can impact the health of a mother, her pregnancy, and her infant.