Final Poster Abstracts 2022

MDS 2022 Schedule

Student Name	Title	Abstract
James Peter ’22	Visualizing the DNA Methylation Landscape on Memory Genes	Neurological disorders remain a leading cause of disability and deaths globally, yet solutions still remain somewhat nonexistent. One such symptom of neurological disorders that may be particularly devastating to the quality of life is long term memory, a process which requires action from the nucleus of neuron cells. Such action is the result of gene expression, driving synaptic plasticity in the brain, thus allowing for memory storage and recall. DNA methylation, the most common form of epigenetic modification in the mammalian genome, is known to be heavily tied to gene expression in both the forward (methylation) and reverse (demethylation) direction. Thus, we investigated the possibility that knocking out a gene expressing ten-eleven translocase enzyme (TET), which is heavily involved in DNA demethylation, might lead to changes in DNA methylation patterns at memory genes and thereby increase long-term memory. Through whole genome DNA bisulfite sequencing of hippocampal brain tissue, we found significant changes in methylation at promoter regions of genes between TET knockout (KO) mice (TET2 +/f Camk2a-Cre) and control mice (TET2 +/f). Recognizing that TET-KO mice showed improvements in long term memory when compared to control mice, our findings suggest that hypermethylation at promoter regions of genes may provide a basis for outlining epigenetic changes involved in long-term memory.
Grace Hoehl ’22	Targeting the Tet Enzymes to Enhance Cognition	Currently there are no drug therapeutics for individuals with disorders marked by memory and learning deficits. Our goal in the lab is to understand the chemical mechanisms that encode and maintain long-term memory. We were experimentally able to show that knocking down the Tet enzyme gene, an enzyme responsible for demethylation of the genome, results in enhanced long term memory in mice. In my thesis, I work to synthesize a Tet enzyme inhibitor that based on it’s drug design is potentially more potent in vitro compared to previous inhibitors synthesized in our lab.
Andrew Hall ’22	Effect of Chronic Bobcat339 Treatment on Memory and Cognition in Wild-type and Pitt-Hopkins Syndrome Model Mice	Memory, learning, and recall is caused by several precise molecular processes allowing us to hold and recall information that can last from just seconds to an entire lifetime. One of these processes involves DNA methylation of genes in the central nervous system which influences cognition. DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism that regulates the transcription of genes. A methyl group in the major groove of DNA binds to cytosine, producing 5-methylcytosine which sterically blocks transcription factors from binding to DNA. Tet enzymes recognize 5-methylcytosine and reverse the process of DNA methylation in the CNS, allowing for transcription to take place once again, and thus regulating cognition. Pitt-Hopkins Syndrome (PTHS) is an incredibly rare learning disability known to severely affect language development, and cause memory deficits and autistic behaviors. Haploinsufficiency in the transcription factor 4 (tcf4) is responsible for PTHS. Further understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms of memory and the role of Tet enzymes can lead to the development of potential epigenetic therapies for PTHS. I investigate the behavior changes of transgenic tcf4 (+/-) and wild type mice in spatial memory tasks receiving treatment of the small molecule Tet inhibitor, Bobcat339, or vehicle. My hypothesis is that pharmacologically blocking the function of Tet2 enzyme will lead to enhanced cognition and memory in both transgenic tcf4 (+/-) model mice and wild type mice.
Elektra Smicka ’22	Restoration of Tcf4 in Adult Pitt-Hopkins Mice Through Gene Reinstatement Therapy	Pitt Hopkins syndrome is a rare neurological disorder caused by the mutation of or deletion of the gene TCF4. Some of the symptoms consist of intellectual disabilities, delay in motor functions, lack of speech, and distinctive facial features. Currently, there is no cure or gene therapy method to treat it. For this research, we used a series of mazes and learning objectives to see if the LSL-TCF4 PDGFRa mice would show similar results to the wild-type mice. Using a Cre-lox system will allow to fix the Pitt-Hopkins allele. By specifically targeting oligodendrocytes, hyperactivity and cognition could potentially be improved.
Katie Carrier ’22	The Impact of Small Molecule Ratios on the Gene Regulation and Pathogenesis of Staphylococcus	Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis are two closely related species of Staphylococcus however S. aureus is more likely to be pathogenic. Both species contain the pzn gene cluster; a non-ribosomal peptide synthase that produces three small pyrazinone molecules: phevalin, leuvalin, and tyrvalin. S. epidermidis produces three times the amount of tyrvalin as S.aureus, while they both produce similar levels of phevalin and leuvalin. We analyzed RNA-sequencing data of each species exposed to none of these pyrazinones, its own ratio of pyrazinones, and the other species’ ratio of pyrazinones to understand how gene regulation affects metabolic pathways and cellular processes.
Julie Jesurum ’22	Transitioning from Commensal to Pathogen: Investigating Gene Expression Changes in Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis	Pyrazinones regulate pathogenicity in Staphylococcus aureus, the species responsible for MRSA infections. However, the same small molecules are made by Staphylococcus epidermidis, an important skin commensal, but their function is unknown. Here, we analyze the pathways that are up and down-regulated in response to these pyrazinones. We see that the genes that are up-regulated by the presence of pyrazinones vary between the different species, meaning that the same molecules are interpreted differently by different microbes. We believe that these changes in gene regulation are responsible for driving the transition between commensal and pathogenic behavior which may allow us to develop novel treatments for skin infections.
Sam Colesworthy ’22	Role of Pyrazinones on S. epidermidis Growth and Biofilm Production at Naturally Occurring Ratios	The bacteria that inhabit our skin play an important role in regulating and maintaining our bodies’ immune system. This study examines how pyrazinones, a family of NRPS molecules produced by the pzn gene cluster, alter biofilm formation in four different Staphylococcus epidermidis strains. Using a series of biofilm assays, we examined how each pyrazinone acts individually, how the pyrazinones cumulatively act at their natural published ratios, and to determine if the pyrazinones alone can trigger accelerated formation of biofilms.
Anna Gouveia ’22	Staphylococcus epidermidis Growth Response to Terpene Molecules	Studies have reported that the average person applies between 80-170 chemicals to the skin daily through the use of cosmetic products; however, the effects that these products have on skin’s climate microbiome are understudied. The chemical exposure forces the human skin, serving as the first line of defense against harmful external agents, to adapt to the stress. Accordingly, Staphylococcus epidermidis, a commensal bacteria important in immune system signaling, is impacted by terpene molecules with antimicrobial properties. Moreover, the effects of various concentrations of terpene molecules, a class of molecules widely incorporated in fragranced products, on the growth of Staph epidermidis will be discussed. Resistance selection of Staph epidermidis to terpene molecules provides a source for further information on how common cosmetic products can alter the skin microbiome through their daily application.
Kyle Jorgensen ’22	Characterizing Polarity in Lead-Free Perovskite and Pyrochlore Materials	The effort to discover lead-free piezoelectric materials that could replace lead zirconium titanate (PZT) has been an ongoing field of research. Various cation-substituted perovskite and pyrochlore materials were investigated for their polar properties. Dielectric characterization was used to determine the existence of any ferroelectric transitions in the dielectric profile at high and low temperatures. Phase transitions were observed in the perovskite materials. It was found that the pyrochlores at high temperatures exhibited either relaxation behavior or decomposition into unstable phases. The density of the samples, along with average grain size and pore quantity in the material, had the largest impact on the dielectric properties of a material. This research will help develop a better understanding of cation-substituted perovskites and pyrochlores to create more efficient polar materials.
Loren Andrews ’22	Stability Analysis of Manganese-Oxide Cathode Materials for Sodium Ion Batteries	As renewable energy storage becomes a necessity in the face of climate change, exploring battery chemistries beyond lithium has become increasingly important. The present works analyzes the stability and performance of manganese-oxide frameworks for sodium-ion battery cathodes. Density Functional Theory is used to evaluate the stability of Pyrolusite (MnO2, space group P42/mnm) , Ramsdellite (MnO2, Pnma) Hollandite (Mn8O16, Pc), Romanechite (Mn5O10, C2/m ), and Birnessite (Mn4O8, C2/m) with Nax contents (x= 0, 0.25, 0.33, 0.5, 0.66, 0.75, 1). Understanding the role of sodium content and ion-channel dimensionality in cathode viability aims to progress our understanding of the role sodium ion batteries can play next generation energy storage.
Crawford Jones ’23	Synthesizing Superconductors	Superconductivity is where a material has zero electrical resistivity and is only present below a critical temperature. To make viable for applications, a high critical temperature is desired. YBCO, a Type II superconductor, will be synthesized using solid-state synthesis and then tested to verify its critical temperature. In order to improve the critical temperature, variables like the heat treatment, stoichiometric ratio of elements, and oxygen exposure will be altered. Further research into other superconducting oxides and methods for increasing the critical temperature through material defects will be fundamental in understanding how to improve this vital material for widespread application.
Ian Tolis ’22	Dielectric Properties and Characterization of Bone Material	No abstract submitted
Owen Bailey ’22	Compositional Control of Local and Long-Range Polarity in the Frustrated Pyrochlore System Bi2-xRExTi2O7 (RE = Y, Ho)	Utilizing advanced characterization techniques such as X-ray and neutron diffraction, the structure of Bi2-2RExTi2O7 (RE = Y, Ho) is studied. This material is a dielectric candidate, making it a strong contender for the replacement of lead-based materials in electronic components.
Yilun Wu ’22	The Association between Change in Glycosylation Patterns Due to Mutations among SARS-CoV-2 Variants and Transmissibility	As COVID-19, the newly emerged respiratory disease that has caught much more attention than SARS and MERS, spreads throughout the world, the pathogenic virus, SARS-CoV-2, continues being reproduced in human host cells and producing various kinds of SARS-CoV-2 variants due to mutations. While some variants do not affect the property of the virus very much, other variants show a significant increase in infectivity and sometimes, fatality. On the other hand, glycosylation is a necessary process of the spike protein, the glycoprotein which plays a crucial role in helping the virus invade its host cells and to be functional. Therefore, I propose that the potential change in such glycosylation process led by mutations happening in the SARS-CoV-2 variants will have an impact on the transmissibility of the virus. Based on the findings from previous studies, I found out that change in glycosylation does cause a shift in glycan components and a corresponding conformational change in the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, providing more flexibility in one of its subunits. Such flexibility is very likely to be related to the increased infectivity of the variants of the virus.
Katherine Faulkner ’22	Traditional Medicine as a Legitimate Form of Treatment in Ghana: A Biochemical Analysis of Plant-based Treatment	Traditional medicine presents another avenue for public health systems to improve access to care in underserved communities. In addition to historical cultural significance of traditional medicine, contemporary traditional medicine still holds an important role in Ghanaian communities. In a literature review, this thesis breaks down assumptions and collects evidence for my hypothesis: If traditional medicine is a mechanism to improve access to care, then by breaking down assumptions and improving the efficacy of these medicines, more Ghanaians will have access to competent and quality healthcare. The results of this review found in regard to availability, affordability, and acceptability, traditional medicine increases access to treatment, and more patients are reached. However, the increased access to care is only equitable if traditional medicine is an effective form of treatment. The potential efficacy of traditional medicine is shown through existing ethnobotanical research of plants used in traditional medicine and warrants further study. This means biochemical evidence, phytochemical screening, toxicity, antibacterial activity, and mutagenic properties of different medical plants, which is further supported by case studies of plasmodial, bacterial, and viral infection.
Sean Agrodnia ’22	The Antibacterial Properties of Phenylpropanoid Glycosides	No abstract submitted
Fia Marota ’22	Pyrazinone Analogs and Their Effect on Staphylococcus epidermidis Biofilms	Staphylococcus epidermidis is a ubiquitous part of the human skin microbiome. Usually this bacteria has a symbiotic relationship with its human host, but it can become pathogenic when found in human tissue. Staph species make a protective biofilm that allows them to grow their population while simultaneously evading the host’s immune system. This project focuses on pyrazinone secondary metabolites produced by skin associated Staph that have been shown to regulate biofilm production. Specifically, the pyrazinone analogs phephenylalanine and valvaline have been synthesized to determine which functional groups play the most important role in biofilm regulation.
Sarah Abbott ’22	Luteoside B: A Synthetic Route to a Plant-derived Potential Therapeutic for RSV	Luteoside B is a plant derived phenylethyl glycoside, which has demonstrated in vitro activity respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Due to the low yield when derived from the plant Markhamia lutea, a synthetic route is necessary for further research on its potential therapeutic value. The synthesis of the L-rhamnosyl glycoside intermediate was performed via glycosylation and the use of a benzylidene protecting group.
Aidan Hill ’22	Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Phenylethanoid Glycosides	Plant secondary metabolites are a diverse group of compounds that help defend plants from pathogens. Phenylethanoid glycosides are a class of plant secondary metabolites that have shown a wide range of biological activities including antibacterial activities. Their structure is defined by a beta-glucopyranose core attached to a hydroxyphenyl ethyl moiety. A library of chemically synthesized phenylethanoid glycosides was created by attaching various cinnamic acid derivatives to the beta-glucopyranose core. These compounds were assayed for their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis bacterium.
Nicholas Reznik ’22	Pzn Gene Products and Their Role in Stabilizing Staphylococcal Biofilms	Antimicrobial resistance remains a significant challenge in the treatment of staphylococcal infections. Drug and immune evasion in Staphylococcus bacteria are putatively owed in part to biofilms, which support their adherence to the skin. The pzn gene cluster is conserved in many bacterial species that rely on biofilms to invade their hosts; these genes encode three small pyrazinone products that have been identified as contributors to biofilm formation. The synthetic procedure for tyrvalin, leuvalin, phevalin, and some synthetic analogues have been described in the literature. This study aims to expand on the existing library of analogues with a novel reaction sequence involving grignard’s reagents and electrophiles. These pyrazinone compounds can be tested in biofilm conditions to elucidate what combinations of analogues may inhibit bacterial growth, and to uncover the therapeutic potential of these compounds.
Steven Sparks ’22	Synthesis of Linderofruticoside A and Orthoester Used in Glycosylation	Natural products are and have been essential components of traditional and modern medicine. The Asian plant, Lindera fruticosa, had four compounds isolated from it, one being Linderofruticoside A. This plant was used in traditional medicine and although nothing is known about Linderofruticoside A, it is hypothesized to have antiviral or antibacterial benefits. This structure consists of a xylose core with gentisic acid and apiose attached forming a 13 membered ring. Linderofruticoside A has yet to be chemically synthesized and we have also yet to find a similar natural occurring product. To study the biological activity of Linderofruticoside A, a chemical synthesis must be carried out. Provided is the continuation of the partial synthesis of Linderafruticoside A specifically information regarding the D-apiose bond. Shifting attention to the glycosylation step between gentisic acid and orthoester addition, we look towards atom economy to decrease the number of steps to form an essential bond in Linderofruticiside A. The approach taken is utilizing different acids and the necessary glycosyl acceptor to produce the direct glycosylation of an orthoester.
Pierson Rambusch ’22	The Dark Tetrad: Exploring Executive Function, Fluid Intelligence, and Social Cognition in Everyday Sadists	The “Dark Triad” refers to three socially-disruptive traits that are present in varying degrees in the general population: psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellianism. Recent research has investigated a fourth trait, everyday sadism (Subclinical Sadism). Everyday sadism is described as the tendency to experience pleasure from watching or causing distress in others. Limited research has been done exploring executive fiction and social cognition in people who present high levels of subclinical sadism. This study will answer the research question: Is everyday sadism associated with performance on tests of fluid intelligence and executive function in the same way as the Dark Triad is?
Danielle Polirer ’22	Neuropsychological Mediators of Moral Rigidity in Subclinical OCD	Moral rigidity has been noted in individuals exhibiting OCD symptoms, with clinicians reporting that patients’ strong moral stance can sometimes impede their progress in treatment. The goal of this research is to explore the relationships between subclinical OCD, using a non-clinical sample of young adults, and other constructs of interest, including moral reasoning style and sensitivity to guilt. In an effort to map the cognitive mechanisms underlying any of these relationships, this study includes standardized assessment of selective attention, cognitive flexibility, response inhibition, and self-monitoring. This study is composed of self-report questionnaires, neuropsychological tests, and one written task.
Christopher Draper ’22	Moral Reasoning Style in Subclinical PTSD	Individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experience unwanted intrusive imagery that can have negative emotional consequences. When faced with a situation where a moral decision has to be made, it is suggested that individuals with PTSD will not commit a moral transgression and will lean towards a deontological thought process. A factor believed to contribute to this style of moral reasoning involves vivid mental imagery influencing present decision-making and a greater inability to suppress emotional influences. Additionally, executive functions such as cognitive flexibility and suppression are suspected of having a connection moral reasoning style. This study examines whether these two executive functions moderate the relationship between mental imagery skill and moral decision-making style in a sample of young adults with subclinical PTSD.
Lily Kinder ’22	Motivation and Guilt Associated with Subclinical OCD in Athletes	Does having obsessive repetitive thoughts enhance levels of guilt and drive motivation? Guilt can be associated with repetitive and obsessive thoughts, an aspect associated with subclinical OCD, when someone experiences a misalignment with their moral standards. In this study, the level of subclinical OCD associated with obsessive thoughts and the level of guilt experienced was assessed in relation to the subject’s motivation. Specifically, the study evaluated student-athletes’ motivation levels to exercise when considering their levels of guilt (e.g., guilt of not training or exercising when they feel they should) in comparison to levels of subclinical OCD.
Dessy Yang ’22	Addiction-related Phenotypes as Predictors of Body-focused Repetitive Behaviors	Body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRPs) are repetitive actions that often involve removal of a part of one’s own body, such as hair pulling, skin picking, and nail biting. Despite the well-familiar relationship between anxiety and BFRPs in children, little is known in young adults like us facing a transition between school and working. Therefore, in this study, Bates students are recruited as participants to examine the prevalence of BFRPs within our student body and to gain insights about the underlying cognitive mechanisms that might facilitate connections between addictive temperament and BFRPs.
Sobie Sobolewski ’22	Investigating How the BAP Impacts Long-Term Memory and Global/Local Processing	Most people have interacted with individuals who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD behaviors are distinct, but there also exist behaviors that resemble those of ASD but are more subtly expressed. These behaviors are manifested in the Broad Autism Phenotype, which are indicative of individuals who are prone to social isolation, who demonstrate an inability to utilize appropriate language in social situations, and who demonstrate an inability to accept deviations from daily routines. The purpose of this study is to examine how the BAP influences global/local processing biases and long-term memory.
Owen Neuman ’22	Computational Modelling and Atomic Physics	This thesis presents a comprehensive, theoretical analysis of a phenomenon known as the Rabi Cycle, a process studied in a variety of disciplines such as atomic physics, particle physics, condensed matter, and quantum computing. Extensive computational simulations have been performed in tandem with the Bates Ultracold Laboratory to serve as theoretical models for future experiments.
Steve Shea ’22	Magnetic Trapping of Rubidium en route to Bose-Einstein Condensate Formation	Over the past 30 years, Bose-Einstein Condensates (BEC) have become core experimental phenomena for atomic physics research, and in more recent years the invention of the microfabricated “atom chips” has led to more robust and compact ultracold-atom traps. Most notably the Cold Atom Lab (CAL) on the International Space Station (ISS) is based on these atom chips. The Lundblad Lab at Bates College, in partnership with NASA and JPL, has been in the process of building a similar atom trap to serve as a testbed for experiments on the ISS. Over the past several years significant progress has been made toward the realization of a BEC using an atom chip. This thesis is a continuation of this work. It explores the theoretical and experimental progress made in transitioning a laser-cooled cloud of rubidium from a magneto-optical trap to a pure magnetic trap. It also begins to explore the process of transitioning from the magnetic trap to the atom chip and the cooling processes that will result in the realization of a BEC.
Thomas Monahan ’22	Machine Learning Methods for Bose-Einstein Condensate Generation Optimization	Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC) generation is a complex process, characterized by the cooling of low-density Bosonic particles to extremely cold temperatures often on the order of nano-Kelvin. This thesis introduces a novel method for BEC quality quantification and evaluates the efficacy of several performance measures for machine learning implementation. Using a Gaussian Process to model the parameter space, we present a comprehensive optimization topology for two critical steps; laser and evaporative cooling. Additionally, we provide recommendations for using ML methods for long-term performance optimization with an open-source library of image processing methods and performance measures.
Jake Winter ’22	Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy of Gold Nanospheres	Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy (FCS) is a technique that uses an autocorrelation analysis of the fluctuations of fluorescence intensity to learn about the quantitative properties of the sample solution used. FCS was used to study the effects gold nanospheres will have on the fluctuations of fluorescence intensity by adding the gold nanospheres into a diluted solution of Alexa488 fluorescent dye and high purity liquid chromatography water. The effects of adding gold nanospheres into the diluted solution is not a well known topic, and we hope to uncover some exciting new results.
Sebastian Jalowayski ’22	The Adoption of Conspiracy Theories: An Examination of Motivations and Circumstances	This research examines how differing motivations and particular circumstances can contribute to the adoption and further endorsement of conspiracy theories. Through an exploration of a multitude of psychological motivators, the current study attempts to identify factors that could potentially help to explain why particular individuals are more likely to maintain belief in conspiratorial ideas. Additionally, this research concentrates on the influence of circumstantial events or ideas that could be subject to public speculation such as climate change and terrorism. The current research will contribute to existing and future studies that attempt to identify significant motivators for the adoption or endorsement of conspiracy theories.
Ben Conner ’22	The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Need for Therapists of Matching Race among Students Attendong College	This research sought to study the connection between the COVID-19 pandemic and the desire for a counselor with the same race as the client. Participants were required to be at least 18 years of age, be attending college or university, and identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Participants took a Qualtrics survey and answered questions about life/college satisfaction, help-seeking, and microaggressions. It also included questions regarding COVID-19, counselor trust and comfort, and perceptions of fair treatment.
Mia Roy ’22	Studying the Effect of Practicing Mindfulness on Productivity during Study Breaks in College Students	An empirical study will be conducted on college students to identify potential associations between mindfulness, productivity, and self-efficacy during a one-hour study session. Within this study, I predict findings may suggest that people who use a meditation app during their study breaks will self-report that they were more productive than those who did not receive any instruction during their 10 minute break each hour. This research is beneficial to identify whether productivity can be immediately improved through mindfulness.
Jamari Amrham ’22	Where’s the Humanity? Social Dominance Orientation as a Predictor for Dehumanizing Black Faces	Human biology has evolved for easier recognition of human faces than non-faces through holistic processing. However, social biases can influence the presence of holistic processing, stripping a face of its humanity. This event is called dehumanization. Evidence shows holistic processing is restricted when processing other-race faces, suggesting racial perception can influence dehumanization. The purpose of this project is to test if social dominance orientation (SDO) is a significant predictor of greater dehumanization in the perception of Black faces than in White faces. I predict that White participants high in SDO will exhibit more dehumanization for Black faces than White faces.
Eliana Al-Konsul ’22	Race, Sexism, and System Justification: Analyzing Potential Differences of System Justification Prevalence between Black and White Women	Women’s experiences with benevolent sexism promote higher levels of subjective well-being and system justification in comparison to hostile sexism. This study explores possible within-group variation by examining whether Black and White women tend to experience different levels of hostile and benevolent sexism, resulting in different levels of subjective well-being and system justification. Previous findings suggest that Black women would experience higher levels of hostile sexism than White women, and therefore report lower levels of subjective well-being and system justification in comparison to White women.
Xavier Fallone ’22	Dancing on the Precipice: How People Reason about Threshold Problems in a Socially Rich Real World Context	Moral psychology has focused on the act structure of scenarios, neglecting observer and target identity. The present studies utilized “threshold problems,” introduced by Levine et al. (2020), to elicit judgments from White participants about the acceptability of a plan that could cause harm to either a Black city or a White city. Participants took a measure of racial ingroup identification, and it was predicted that, as identification increased, the acceptability of the plan would decrease in the White city condition but not the Black city condition, but no significant differences in judgment were found between city conditions as identification increased.
Gilley Davis-Oakes ’22	Recovery-Friendly Workplaces: An Analysis of Current Employers, Employees, and Local Service Providers	My Community-Based Research Project focuses on the Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) initiative that originated in New Hampshire. This initiative seeks to support their communities by recognizing recovery from substance use disorder as a strength and works directly with people in recovery. RFWs encourage a healthy and safe environment where employers, employees, and communities can collaborate to create positive change and eliminate barriers for those impacted. My research consisted of 3 surveys that analyzed self-reflection in current employees and employees in the initiative and asked local service providers their likelihood to partner with a potential RFW in Androscoggin County.
Amanda Kaufman ’22	A Community-Engaged Exploration of the Impact of Sports amongst Women and Girls in Maine	With the support of the Maine Sport Commission, a nonprofit organization that works to advance, elevate and promote Maine as a four-season sports destination, the purpose of this project is to capture and celebrate the positive impact of sports amongst women and girls in Maine. Specifically, we hope to explore how sport impacts women and girls across the lifespan in physical, psychological, and social contexts.
Darby Glenn ’22	Incorporating Cultural Humility and Trauma-Informed Care Practices into Community-based Programming	Healing from gender-based violence requires support, patience, and resources which not all survivors have. In this study, we worked with the Center for Wisdom’s Women, specifically the Sophia’s House program which aims to provide resources that promote healing for human trafficking survivors and formerly incarcerated women, on their goal of creating more workshops, with pre-determined focuses, for both women in the program and volunteers. Each discussion was framed with an intersectional and trauma-informed approach to ensure the comfort of the women during the conversation. After each workshop, participants were surveyed to determine the efficacy of the program and their thoughts.
Elysia Garza ’22	Exploring the Relationship among Cultural Values, Intergenerational Trauma, and Mexican Americans’ Experience and Communication of Emotions	Previous work has demonstrated that Mexican-Americans are unique in their verbal and nonverbal communication. This review synthesizes previous research on communication styles in Mexican-American culture, their cultural values surrounding family and respect, and how their methods of communication are impacted by these cultural values. After exploring intergenerational trauma and its role in different identity groups, it is then discussed how this communication style may alienate Mexican-Americans and add to the cultural trauma that this group experiences. This review discusses ways to overcome these barriers and provide room for future research.
Alix Zabin ’22	Does Socioeconomic Status Affect One’s Experience of Awe? Awe in Nature and the Small Self	This research studies how objective socioeconomic status (SES) affects an individual’s ability to experience awe. Individuals induced to experience feelings of awe endorse a small version of themselves–a “small self” (Piff et al., 2015). This may be challenging for upper-SES individuals, who endorse self-oriented thought processes and greater levels of psychological entitlement (PE) compared to lower-SES individuals, who are more prone to other-oriented, prosocial thought processes (Piff, 2014; Piff & Moskowitz, 2018). To test these hypotheses, participants were recruited via Amazon Mechanical Turk. Participants watched an awe-inducing video or a control video and completed a Qualtrics survey that measured their experience of awe and other positive and negative emotions, their endorsement of a small self, and levels of PE. SES was measured using participant’s parental educational attainment and current annual income. I hypothesize that the experience of awe will mediate the relationship between the condition and small self feelings. I also predict that SES will moderate the relationship between the condition variable and the experience of awe and the condition variable and small self feelings. After a moderated mediation analysis using SPSS, the mediation pattern should look different for individuals of a high SES compared to a low SES. The awe condition variable should have more of an impact on (1) state-based awe and (2) small-self feelings for low SES participants compared to high SES participants. This study will potentially contribute to a greater understanding of how socioeconomic status affects the experience of awe generated from the natural world.

Hayley Neighmond ’22	Genomic Analysis of the Stem Cell Regulatory Pathway in a Early Branching Animal	Stem cells are the basis of all other cell types in animals. Studying the evolution of genetic pathways regulating stem cell potential is key to understanding animal development and disease. The earliest branching animal lineages are the sponges, which are also the only animals to maintain stem cells throughout their lifetime. This study used comparative genomics to evaluate when genes regulating stem cell pluripotency evolved in animals using the genome of the freshwater sponge, Ephydatia muelleri. This work shows that many of the components of the stem cell regulatory pathway were established early in animal evolution.
Abby Quinn ’22	Developmental Abnormalities of Freshwater Sponges Grown in BPS	The freshwater sponge, Ephydatia muelleri, demonstrated toxic effects when grown in Bisphenol S (BPS), a common replacement for Bisphenol A (BPA). As studies on BPA have increased awareness of its endocrine disrupting effects, the use of other analogues to replace BPA have risen. Many of these analogues have not been proven to be safer alternatives and there is a lack of studies on the effects of BPS on gene regulation and development. In this study E. muelleri was grown in culture media with various concentrations of BPS finding morphological changes at 4 mg/L to 20 mg/L.
Hark Lally ’22	The Role of TPK-LYN and TRAP5 in Ephydatia muelleri/Chlorella Symbioses	The aim of my study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms used to establish endosymbiotic relationships between freshwater sponges and microalgae. The role of tyrosine protein kinase-LYN (TPK-Lyn) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase type 5 (TRAP5) genes was examined during the endosymbiotic relationship between Ephydatia muelleri and its Chlorella-like algal symbiont. I used qRT-PCR to determine the expression levels of these genes in aposymbiotic versus newly infected sponges during different time intervals of establishment of the symbiosis.
Aaliyah Black ’22	A Medical Literature Review on the Chronic Health Disparities and Stress among Black Women as Observed through the Lens of Cardiovascular Disease, Obesity, Prenatal Care, and Cancer	Black women, due to their race and gender, are positioned in such a way that they often face the greatest health inequities. While observing cardiovascular disease, cancer, prenatal care, and obesity it was found that Black women have the highest rates of mortality of any racial group for these diseases with the exception of some cancers. These inequities are explained by social determinants of health, which include environmental pollutants, inaccessible healthcare, income, and educational attainment. Until these social determinants are addressed, the inequities will persist, ultimately leading to elevated risk factors for the development of chronic diseases and premature death.
Elene Chamberlin ’22	Characterizing the Gulf of Maine Rocky Intertidal Using NeCSA Protocol	The goal of our study was to collect intertidal species diversity data according to Northeastern Coastal Stations Alliance (NeCSA) protocols to understand if species diversity and community composition vary by horizontal or vertical location. We conducted quadrat sampling at three sites along the Maine coast. Using clod cards we measured wave action at the distinct sites. Our data was used to quantify variation in the ecological communities in the Gulf of Maine. We examined species richness, diversity, and evenness to gain a full picture of the site’s longevity. Looking at the species diversity along various trophic levels and sites allows us to compare community structures and the rate of changes on a geographic scale.
Henry Hardy ’22	Characterizing the Gulf of Maine Rocky Intertidal Using NeCSA Protocol	The goal of our study was to collect intertidal species diversity data according to Northeastern Coastal Stations Alliance (NeCSA) protocols to understand if species diversity and community composition vary by horizontal or vertical location. We conducted quadrat sampling at three sites along the Maine coast. Using clod cards we measured wave action at the distinct sites. Our data was used to quantify variation in the ecological communities in the Gulf of Maine. We examined species richness, diversity, and evenness to gain a full picture of the site’s longevity. Looking at the species diversity along various trophic levels and sites allows us to compare community structures and the rate of changes on a geographic scale.
Emily Duffy ’22	Characterizing the Functional Importance of NSP4 Positions 77 and 78	Rotavirus is the leading cause of severe acute childhood gastroenteritis and results in over 200,000 deaths annually in mostly low-income countries. Key to the pathogenesis and replication of the virus is the virally-encoded ion channel, nonstructural protein 4 (NSP4). A screen of loss of function mutants identified key functional residues of NSP4 now being targeted in rational drug design studies. Ongoing studies seek to understand the contribution of other regions to NSP4’s pathogenic function.
Maddie Feldmeier ’22	Characterizing the Functional Importance of NSP4 Positions 77 and 78	Rotavirus is the leading cause of severe acute childhood gastroenteritis and results in over 200,000 deaths annually in mostly low-income countries. Key to the pathogenesis and replication of the virus is the virally-encoded ion channel, nonstructural protein 4 (NSP4). A screen of loss of function mutants identified key functional residues of NSP4 now being targeted in rational drug design studies. Ongoing studies seek to understand the contribution of other regions to NSP4’s pathogenic function.
Clara Porter ’22	Characterizing the Functional Importance of NSP4 Positions 77 and 78	Rotavirus is the leading cause of severe acute childhood gastroenteritis and results in over 200,000 deaths annually in mostly low-income countries. Key to the pathogenesis and replication of the virus is the virally-encoded ion channel, nonstructural protein 4 (NSP4). A screen of loss of function mutants identified key functional residues of NSP4 now being targeted in rational drug design studies. Ongoing studies seek to understand the contribution of other regions to NSP4’s pathogenic function.
Ossie Heard ’22	Developing New Antiviral Agents	The enteric pathogen, rotavirus, found in the small intestine of the GI tract, employs a sophisticated replication strategy that also causes life-threatening vomiting and diarrhea, by expressing an ion channel called non-structural protein 4 (NSP4). Because the vaccines do not work in the areas with higher rates of this infection, treatment development is necessary to help infected children. This project aims to understand key structural regions of NSP4 for future rational drug design efforts to treat rotavirus.
Alex Weissman ’22	Developing New Antiviral Agents	The enteric pathogen, rotavirus, found in the small intestine of the GI tract, employs a sophisticated replication strategy that also causes life-threatening vomiting and diarrhea, by expressing an ion channel called non-structural protein 4 (NSP4). Because the vaccines do not work in the areas with higher rates of this infection, treatment development is necessary to help infected children. This project aims to understand key structural regions of NSP4 for future rational drug design efforts to treat rotavirus.
Etti Cooper ’22	Critical Thermal Maxima and Plasticity in Metabolic Rates: A Comparison of Two Ant Species	In ants, critical thermal maxima (CTmax) and the ability to acclimate to high temperatures vary among species. I gathered previously published CTmax data and found a significant, though weak, relationship with latitude and an insignificant effect of phylogeny. Next, my experimental data demonstrated that the mean CTmax value of the pavement ant Tetramorium immigrans was significantly higher than that of the subterranean Lasius nearcticus (p=<0.001). There was no difference in their respective acclimation abilities in metabolic rate. While the CTmax findings support my hypothesis, the results of the respirometry measurements suggest that both species’ capacity for plasticity remains unclear.
Charlotte Collins ’22	The Effects of Wing Flexibility on Lateral Flight Performance in Bumblebees	Previous research has shown that increasing bumblebee wing stiffness decreases load lifting capacity (vertical force production). However, the effects of wing stiffening on lateral aerodynamic force production associated with maneuvering flight performance has not yet been explored. To test this, we stiffened the wings of live bumblebees then subjected the bees to a rapidly approaching obstacle during flight in order to elicit maximum lateral aerodynamic accelerations. We show that increasing wing stiffness had no significant effect on lateral force production. These results demonstrate that wing flexibility, although beneficial for lift-based aerodynamics, is less important for maneuverability-based flight performance.
Julia Slayne ’22	The Effects of Wing Flexibility on Lateral Flight Performance in Bumblebees	Previous research has shown that increasing bumblebee wing stiffness decreases load lifting capacity (vertical force production). However, the effects of wing stiffening on lateral aerodynamic force production associated with maneuvering flight performance has not yet been explored. To test this, we stiffened the wings of live bumblebees then subjected the bees to a rapidly approaching obstacle during flight in order to elicit maximum lateral aerodynamic accelerations. We show that increasing wing stiffness had no significant effect on lateral force production. These results demonstrate that wing flexibility, although beneficial for lift-based aerodynamics, is less important for maneuverability-based flight performance.
Sydney Phillips ’22	The Development of an Erythrocyte-Specific TRAP Transgenic Zebrafish Line	The course of development in organisms is a delicate process in which minute deviations could have potentially disastrous consequences. One source of developmental disruption is exposure to chemicals, like pro-oxidants. Nfe2, known to be important in erythropoiesis, has been implicated as a transcriptional regulator of the oxidative stress response throughout zebrafish development, though further investigation is needed. This study’s specific aim was to produce an erythrocyte-specific vector to enable the creation of an erythrocyte-specific TRAP transgenic line of zebrafish. A segment from the promoter region of the erythrocyte-specific Blvd-B gene was isolated, amplified, and inserted upstream of the TRAP construct to create the vector. Success will be verified through DNA sequencing. Ultimately, once established, the transgenic line would facilitate the isolation and subsequent analysis of ribosome-bound erythrocyte-specific mRNA, in the hopes of further illuminating Nfe2’s regulatory role in the red blood cell development of embryonic zebrafish.
Yueh Chuah ’22	Regulation of Ca2+ Signaling by IRBIT through Binding of Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate Receptor	Calcium ions are second messengers that have an important role in regulating cellular pathways. To mobilize Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) interacts with inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors on the endoplasmic reticulum. This interaction is crucial in regulating cell proliferation. A recent study on HeLa cells has shown that IRBIT restricts the IP3-induced Ca2+ release by acting as a competitive antagonist for IP3-binding to IP3R (Bonneau et al., 2016). This project aims to analyze calcium signal intensity to investigate how IRBIT regulates calcium signaling under different ATP concentrations by comparing that in wildtype HEK293 and HEK293 cells lacking IRBIT.
Anna Reaman ’22	Regulation of Phosphoinositide Metabolism in HEK293-PITPNA and HEK293-PIP5K1C Knockout Cells	Phosphoinositides are a family of minor phospholipids in cell membranes that play an important role in the regulation of ion channel activity. Mutations in genes involved in the synthesis of phosphoinositides have emerged as potential causes in the development of human neurological diseases. This research aims to elucidate the mechanisms utilized by the cell to regulate the synthesis of phosphoinositides after knocking out two different genes involved in the synthesis and breakdown of phosphoinositides. RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis are being used to identify potentially altered expression of other genes and proteins in these pathways.
Abhi Elayidom ’22	The Role of Phosphoinositide Metabolism in the Regulation of Neuronal Activity	Prior studies have established the importance of phosphoinositides in the regulation of neuronal activity. To identify regulatory mechanisms in the biochemical network controlling phosphoinositide metabolism, we conducted an RNA-Seq screen on two HEK293 knockout cell lines. PITPNA-KO cells lack a lipid transfer protein involved in one of the earliest steps of phosphoinositide synthesis, while PIP5K1C-KO cells lack a lipid kinase involved in the last step in the synthesis pathway of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate. Using data from the RNA-Seq screen, this project uses computational analysis, RT-qPCR, and Western Blot to understand the role of lncRNAs for regulation of phosphoinositide metabolism.
Hadia Fatima ’22	Phosphoinositide Metabolism in Neurons	Deregulation of phosphoinositide metabolism has been associated with diseases like epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, and Huntington’s disease. This study will analyze the kinetics of phosphoinositide metabolism by monitoring the effects of knockouts of two genes involved in phosphoinositide depletion and synthesis. Fluorescence microscopy will be used to track the location of specific phosphoinositides in knockout cells. The differences in the concentration of phosphoinositides in cellular compartments will help to develop a relationship between the lipid concentrations and cellular properties. Comprehension of the mechanism would be a vital source for the development of effective treatment of several neural disorders.
Alex Stigall ’22	Evaluating the Growth Dynamics of Corynebacterium accolens and Corynebacterium striatum in Varying Environments and Hydrocarbon Sources for Their Potential Use in Oil Spill Bioremediation	Bioremediation, the use of a microorganism to repair a polluted environment, is one strategy utilized during oil spills. Corynebacterium is a genus of lipid-dependent bacteria that may serve as bioremediation agents in oil spills by breaking down the hydrocarbon contents of crude oil. The purpose of this thesis was to characterize the growth dynamics of Corynebacterium accolens and Corynebacterium striatum in the presence of different lipid sources in rich and minimal media environments. We selected lipids and hydrocarbons present in crude oil to determine the efficacy of using these microbes as bioremediation agents. The results from this thesis further elucidate the potentiality of Corynebacterium to grow in and remediate environments affected by oil spills.
Seren Parikh ’22	Applications of Simulating a Tightly Focused Electric Field in Studying Nonlinear Optics	A discussion of plasmonics of gold microplates through nonlinear optics, particularly harmonic generation induced by high intensity pulses of infrared light, is presented. The electric field distribution and evolution from plasmon excitation at the focus of a high numerical aperture objective was investigated. Fourier analysis and the chirp Z-transform (CZT), a discretized variation of the Laplace transform, was considered to create models to provided insights on how to precisely control optical responses of gold micromaterials and surpass the diffraction limit of optical systems. An attempt was made to adapt one and two dimensional Fourier Transforms to construct a 3D CZT algorithm in MATLAB, which early findings suggest can be used in place of a 3D Fourier transform to efficiently simulate a volumetric field.
Chris Dye ’22	Plasmonic Effects on Nonlinear Optical Reponses and Tip Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy	Utilizing a series of gold nanotriangles and a custom IR laser setup, a tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy apparatus is constructed from an atomic force microscope (AFM) in order to perform Raman spectroscopy on a sample, in correlation with data collected from nonlinear optical responses. Data collected acts as a proof of concept of the contraption, and allows for future research into materials science and spectroscopy utilizing plasmonics as a primary method of signal enhancement.
Casey Kelemen ’22	mRNA Localization in Lyme Disease	We are using novel imaging techniques to visualize the localization of mRNA within Borrelia burgdorferi, which is the spirochete responsible for causing Lyme Disease. Localization of mRNA may play a role in regulating gene expression and we are seeking to characterize the transcripts dbpA, gltP, and rpoA. We are seeking to identify whether fluorescent aptamers will be able to be used to visualize the RNA transcripts in confocal and high resolution microscopy.
Erik Malm ’22	Regulation of Gene Expression in Borrelia burgdorferi, the Lyme Disease Spirochete	Borrelia burgdorferi, the Lyme disease-causing bacterium, persists in nature by means of alternating between mammalian “reservoir” hosts and tick vectors. The bacterium adapts to these physiologically different microenvironments by selectively regulating the expression of genes involved in the transmission and/or endurance of B. burgdorferi, including that which encodes ErpA 2 — a lipoprotein that promotes virulence. Additionally, B. burgdorferi differentially regulates the synthesis of SpoVG, a known DNA- and RNA-binding protein, throughout the enzootic cycle. Here, the interplay of the ErpA 2 and SpoVG proteins is investigated, further exemplifying the complexity of B. burgdorferi and its equipment of genetic modulation.
Aisling Kelly ’22	Investigating the effects of the RNA-binding protein SpoVg in the transmission of Borrelia burgdorferi from tick to vertebrate	Lyme disease is a vector-borne illness that is transmitted from tick to mammalian hosts by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. The drastic change in microenvironment between tick to vertebrate requires precise gene regulation, and understanding expression throughout the enzootic cycle is paramount in developing potential therapies to Lyme disease. The lipoprotein ErpA, coded by the erpA gene, has previously been identified as a key regulator in mammalian infection via Borrelia burgdorferi. This study investigates the impact of the RNA-binding protein SpoVg in the potential interruption of translation of the borrelial transcriptome, specifically the erpA, and consequently the transmission of Lyme disease.
Charlie Lewis ’22	Localization of mRNA in E. coli Using a Light-up RNA Aptamer	Lyme disease is an inflammatory disease which is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and affects around 500,000 people a year in the United States. These past two semesters I have worked with Professor Paula Schlax to characterize the localization of the mRNAs dbpA, rpoA, and gltP using novel light-up RNA aptamers and confocal microscopy in Escherichia coli, with the hope of localizing these mRNAs in Borrelia burgdorferi in the future. There has yet to be an antibiotic that targets RNA turnover in Borrelia burgdorferi, so we hope to identify mRNA targets that allow for organism specific treatments.
Max Freund ’22	Ski and Surf Film: Fantasy vs. Realistic Paradigms	For years ski and surf companies have been filming athletes to create magnificent movies, clips, and short films. People have been watching these films for years to enjoy the beauty of sport, while imagining themselves in the athletes shoes. However, (although magnificent) these films are not very realistic on many levels. In fact, each film itself can be categorized into either fantasy or realistic. These two types of film do very different things, and I set out to explore what exactly puts a movie into one of these categories, how it affects the audience, and whether or not its a “good thing.”
Claire Kissane ’22	Critical Theory and Identity through Clothing in French Film	Looking at the films Mignonnes and Bande de filles, this project examines the way that clothing not only reflects but creates identity. Relying heavily on French theorists such as Cixous, Merleau-Ponty, and Irigaray, we use phenomenology and gender theory to explore the ways in which women’s identity functions in a patriarchal society. Further, this project illuminates structures of power surrounding norms of dress for women in different cultures, and how discourse surrounding women’s clothing affects societal standards and ultimately acts as an oppressive factor to women.
Stella Santucci ’22	Critical Theory and Identity through Clothing in French Film	Looking at the films Mignonnes and Bande de filles, this project examines the way that clothing not only reflects but creates identity. Relying heavily on French theorists such as Cixous, Merleau-Ponty, and Irigaray, we use phenomenology and gender theory to explore the ways in which women’s identity functions in a patriarchal society. Further, this project illuminates structures of power surrounding norms of dress for women in different cultures, and how discourse surrounding women’s clothing affects societal standards and ultimately acts as an oppressive factor to women.
Max Lauster ’22	The Impacts of Two Olympics on the Cityscape and Environment of Tokyo	The 1964 and 2021 Olympics had profound impacts on the look and structure of Tokyo. Massive infrastructure projects and exorbitant spending are a staple of any Olympic Games and through analyzing two Olympics from two different eras, the similarities become clear. This presentation aims to contextualize the how the Olympic system has shaped Tokyo and Japan as a whole.
Essie Martin ’22	Investigation of Laminaria saccharina Burial below Damariscotta River Seaweed Farms Using eDNA and Stable Isotopes	Until recently, kelps and seaweeds have been left out of the global blue carbon conversation, because the high energy and rocky substrate environments in which wild kelp naturally grows are unsuited for burial in benthic sediment. Developments in aquaculture and seaweed farming have diversified the environments in which kelp now grows and increased the possibility for kelp burial. The Damariscotta River is home to a number of aquaculture lease sites including Maine Sea Farms, a ten-year seaweed farm in Clarks Cove (farm capacity: 10x100m longlines), and the Darling Marine Center (farm capacity: 1x100m longline), a one year experimental seaweed farm in Lowes Cove. Sediment was sampled in these two coves and Pleasant Cove, which is in the same area in the river, but without a kelp farm lease, before, during, and after kelp harvest season in February, May, June, and July of 2021. Sediment samples were analyzed for δ13C, δ15N, δ34S, percent carbon, and eDNA. Acidified sediment δ13C (-21.6 to -19.7) aligns with local kelp (Laminaria saccharina) δ13C (-20.7) (samples taken from the Darling Marine Center farm), suggesting that some amount of kelp from farms is buried locally. Ng of Laminaria saccharina DNA in samples was consistently highest at the Clark’s Cove site, particularly in the middle of the kelp harvest season in May (SQ= 391-687). Preliminary data shows that farmed kelp is more likely to be buried in sediment than wild kelp.
Emily Torkelsen ’22	A Comparison of Carbon Sequestration and Vegetation History in Two Maine Salt Marshes	This thesis compares carbon stocks, sequestration rates, and changes in vegetation history in Cousins Marsh, Yarmouth, and Old Pond Marsh, Hancock, Maine. Changes in δ13C suggest changes in vegetation and stream meanders over time. Lead pollution horizons indicate accretion rates of 2.4mm/yr in Cousins and 2.0mm/yr in Old Pond. Despite differences in location and human alterations, rates of carbon sequestration were nearly identical, at 76.20gCm-2yr-1for Cousins and 75.36gCm-2yr-1for Old Pond. The carbon stock of the top 60cm was determined to be 16 million kg of carbon for Cousins and 6.5 million kg of carbon for Old Pond.
Meg O’Brien ’22	Spatial Elevation Dynamics and Carbon Sequestration Variability Within Sprague Marsh, Phippsburg, Maine	The purpose of this study was to assess elevation dynamics and carbon sequestration rates in Sprague Marsh in Phippsburg, Maine. The compilation of data from Sediment Elevation Tables, calculated lead horizon-based sedimentation rates, and carbon sequestration rates suggest that the southern end of Sprague Marsh is experiencing lower rates of vertical sediment accretion and long-term sedimentation, higher rates of subsidence, and diminished ecosystem functioning (carbon sequestration). Comparison of elevation dynamics with projected sea level rise rates in Maine indicate that the southern end of Sprague Marsh is more vulnerable to subsidence due to rising sea levels than other examined areas.
Parker Caswell ’22	Methane Emissions, Carbon Sequestration, and Groundwater Hydrology along the Freshwater Margin of the Sprague River Salt Marsh	Tidally controlled wetlands sequester carbon (C) at a rate much greater than terrestrial ecosystems. Despite their immense potential as a C-sink, decreased salinity in tidal marshes has been shown to both reduce C-sequestration and increase the production of Methane (CH4), a potent greenhouse gas (GHG). This study examines the effects of groundwater and surficial salinity regimes on CH4 production at the upland terminus of Sprague Marsh, in Phippsburg, Maine, and provides a first order estimation of the net effect of direct surface to air CH4 emissions on the overall C-sequestration potential of the marsh.
Rex Chen ’22	Transport Dynamics of Road Salt and Its Impacts on the Water Quality of the Impaired Hart Brook Watershed, Lewiston, Maine	The Hart Brook watershed, located in Lewiston, Maine, has experienced elevated specific conductivity values presumably due to the presence of road salt during the summer months since the first measurement in 2011. While the year-long spatial and temporal changes of the road salt contamination in the Hart Brook remain unclear, the purpose of this study is to investigate the transport dynamics of road salt and its impacts on the water quality of this watershed in a period of a year, in the aim of improving the understanding and the regulation of the nonpoint sources of pollution in this area.
Zane Rahabi ’22	Geochemistry of Three Distinct Lewiston Quadrangle Pegmatites	Pegmatites are a type of igneous rock which can be found throughout Maine, and which are characterized by their large grain size. Researchers currently mapping the bedrock geology of the Lewiston, Maine, 15-minute quadrangle have identified three distinct varieties of pegmatite in close proximity within this area, while earlier mapping efforts suggest that all pegmatites within the quadrangle are of the same variety. This presentation will discuss the first ever geochemical analysis of these three apparently distinct pegmatites, and will examine what implications their geochemistry may have regarding their origins, in order to finally determine how they might be related.
Maya McDonough ’22	Holocene Marine Climate Reconstruction through δ18O Isotopes of the Bivalve Serripes groenlandicus	Climate change in the Arctic during the Holocene is reconstructed using shell carbonate isotopes from the bivalve species, Serripes groenlandicus. Eight different samples of Serripes groenlandicus were collected from various sites in Svalbard, Norway, and hand sampled on consecutive growth bands for δ18O isotopes to develop temperature reconstruction models. The shell ages span throughout the Holocene, encompassing the multiple cycles of known warm and cold periods, including the Holocene Thermal Maximum. This study aims to reconstruct a timeline of discrete marine temperature fluctuations in Isfjorden, Svalbard, and will allow for improved predictions of the impacts of future human-induced climate change.
Ceci Gichner ’22	Quantifying Crevassing, Deformation, and Damage, on the Vaughan Lewis Icefall, Juneau, Alaska	As temperate glaciers continue to retreat, quantifying changes through melting and fracture are important priorities. The fracture mechanics of ice are poorly constrained by in situ observations, and this work investigates crevassing through field methods and remote sensing observations. This thesis, focused on the Vaughan Lewis Icefall in Juneau, Alaska, explores different methods of conducting field work in crevassed regions and understanding fracture through local observations in conjunction with empirically derived models and satellite observations.
Luke Sedor Protti ’22	Soil Erosion Rates on Moraine Hillslopes of the Mendenhall Glacier in Southeast Alaska	Soil erosion rates play a major role in controlling how soils and landscapes co-evolve on Earth’s surface. Previous studies have focused on the evolution of soil erosion rates over millennial timescales. However, how erosion rates evolve over a shorter time scale remains unknown. This research quantified soil erosion rates on moraines of the Mendenhall Glacier in Southeast Alaska. Soil erosion rates were quantified for five moraines spanning from 69 to 270 years in age using 239+240Pu technique. The results show that soil erosion rates decrease over time, from ≈ 6 t/ha/yr to ≈ 3 t/ha/yr.
Hongke Lu ’24	Measuring Galaxy Outflow Properties by Stacking Spectra from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey	Star formation in galaxies is a very inefficient process, and galactic outflows play an important role in self-regulating star formation and maintaining the low efficiency. We are analyzing the spectral properties of a large sample of galaxies from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, focusing on the 300,000 galaxies with significant emission line detections. We are creating stacked spectra for sub-samples of thousands of galaxies and quantifying how their outflow properties, as measured from absorption lines in the stacked spectra, vary as a function of their galaxy properties.
Milly Detels ’22	Effects of Optical Feedback on a High Powered Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser	In this study, we explore the vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), a subgroup of semiconductor lasers that has progressed from a lab novelty to a commercial device. Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers are primarily used in telecommunication applications to send data as pulses of light via optical fiber. Output power is an important quantity in such applications. We have observed that a high-power VCSEL operates in multiple lasing modes from threshold, with a beam profile consisting of many lobes. With spatially filtered optical feedback, higher order modes are suppressed and beam profile is improved significantly. Furthermore, it is observed that the higher powered VCSEL modes, which are typically not polarized, become polarized when optical feedback is applied. This effect could improve the coupling efficiency between the optical fiber and the VCSEL.
Clay Hundertmark ’22	Effects of Optical Feedback on a High Powered Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser	In this study, we explore the vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), a subgroup of semiconductor lasers that has progressed from a lab novelty to a commercial device. Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers are primarily used in telecommunication applications to send data as pulses of light via optical fiber. Output power is an important quantity in such applications. We have observed that a high-power VCSEL operates in multiple lasing modes from threshold, with a beam profile consisting of many lobes. With spatially filtered optical feedback, higher order modes are suppressed and beam profile is improved significantly. Furthermore, it is observed that the higher powered VCSEL modes, which are typically not polarized, become polarized when optical feedback is applied. This effect could improve the coupling efficiency between the optical fiber and the VCSEL.
Ellie Bauer ’22	Analyzing The Great Resignation and Lying-Flat Movement: 躺平	For my Chinese thesis, I aim to understand a social movement which began a few months into 2021, occurring in both the United States and China. This movement is called 躺平 (Tǎng píng) which translates to “lying flat” in English. I will unpack phrases in Chinese related to the workforce being a “rat race” and compare it to a recent social movement called the Great Resignation occurring in the United States. Additionally, I aim to explore how the pandemic has redefined people’s mindset and expectations of the workforce by analyzing a manifesto which initiated the 躺平 movement. The manifesto explains the lessons learned from two years of joblessness and closely relates to the “996” issue- which is being overworked and overstressed due to working 9am to 9pm 6 days a week. Lastly, throughout this thesis I will incorporate some Chinese phrases related to the how the lying flat movement is interfering with China’s innovation and technological advancements, for example, I aim to unpack the following: 多做多错，少做少错，不做不错 (Duō zuò duō cuò, shǎo zuò shǎo cuò, bù zuò bùcuò) and 躺平的韭菜不好割(Tǎng píng de jiǔcài bù hǎo gē).

Ben Schmandt ’22	Impacts of Triphenyl Phosphate on the Development and Gene Expression of Larval Zebrafish	Triphenyl phosphate (TPhP) is a pollutant used as a plasticizer and flame retardant in electronics. It has been shown to impact reproductive development and other metabolic pathways in zebrafish (Danio rerio) but the mechanisms and extent of its toxicity are not well understood. This study examined the impacts of environmentally detected concentrations of the TPhP on zebrafish development and the expression of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related (Nrf) family of genes, which respond to oxidative stress. Altered development and gene expression were detected, indicating the need for further research on TPhP and its effects.
Emma Christman ’22	Holocene Climate Clam-ity: Arctica islandica as Proxies for Environmental Change during the Early Holocene in Svalbard	The early Holocene is understood as a period marked by unusual warmth globally, including the Norwegian high arctic. This project uses early Holocene bivalve Arctica islandica, employing methods of stable isotope analysis to reconstruct marine paleoclimate in the largest fjord of Svalbard. By working to understand what ocean temperatures may have been during this global warmth on a warm-loving species now extinct in Svalbard, Norway, we may achieve a glance at what was: a time where warm Atlantic-Gulf Stream Water may have had a pronounced warming effect on the arctic regions.
Dewi Henry ’22	Marine Climate Reconstruction from Early Holocene Arctica islandica from Erdmannflya Peninsula, Svalbard	Arctica islandica is a bivalve found along the western coast of Svalbard, Norway, that has been dated to the Early Holocene (~9-8 kya). During this time temperatures were 6°C warmer than today. My research involves analyzing oxygen isotope composition within shells, allowing for sea surface temperature reconstructions. These reconstructions are used to discuss patterns and causations to characterize past behaviors of climatic and hydrographic conditions during Early Holocene warming. In-depth paleoenvironmental studies of Arctic regions are critical to gain a better understanding of local and global dynamics as the Earth continues warm as the twenty-first century proceeds.
Evan Saltman ’22	A Structural Analysis of the Plumbago Mountain Fault, Pluton, and Associated Pegmatites	The East Andover 7.5’ Quadrangle is located in Oxford County, Maine, and encompasses a multitude of stratigraphic units, from Silurian metasedimentary units to Devonian intrusives, along with a unique gem-bearing pegmatite. Originally mapped by in 1976 by Moench and Hildreth as the southwest corner of the Rumford 15’ Quadrangle, the East Andover 7.5’ Quadrangle has now been remapped at a 1:8,000 scale as part of the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth-MRI). This work further investigates the existence of the Plumbago Mountain Fault (PMF), a pre-metamorphic listric fault, through detailed field investigation, geochronology, and remote sensing.
Jake Ressel ’22	Assessing the Suitability of Seed Mix Conservation Strategies for Pollinators in the Northeast	In recent years, there has been growing awareness of declines in the populations of insect pollinators. As a result, interest in pollinator conservation strategies, which have focused mainly on establishing areas of beneficial habitat, has similarly increased. A popular method for creating such habitat is sowing mixes of seeds belonging to plants purported to support pollinators. However, many of these seeds are included based on pollinator-friendly plant lists, most of which are grounded only in anecdotal evidence. The sources of information for these lists are rarely provided, leading to confusion and uncertainty over their validity and the possible inclusion of plants that are ill-suited for pollinator conservation. Thus, within pollinator research, many have called for the creation of plant lists that are based fully on empirical data. This project is an attempt to fulfill that call, focusing specifically on New England and determining the most vulnerable pollinators in the region, assessing the seed mixes currently available in and marketed there, and offering recommendations on how the mixes could be modified to best support pollinator conservation.
Neeshi Hullavarad ’22	Mapping the Uncanny Valley in Relationship to the Dark Triad	This study seeks to determine if self-reported Dark Triad personality traits are associated with unique contours of the uncanny valley (UV) response and whether skill in advanced affective theory of mind (TOM) modulates the relationship(s). In the Bates College student body (n = 50), TOM and Dark Triad traits were measured and each participant’s UV was mapped using human-to-mannequin morphs. A pulse oximeter was used to measure changes in physiology in response to the morphs. If such associations exist, then the affective TOM likely mediates the relationship between the Dark Triad and the UV response.
Liam Evans ’22	Dark Personality and the “Evil Genius”: Relations among the Dark Tetrad Traits, Intelligence, Executive Function, Social Cognition, and Theory of Mind	The “Dark Triad” refers to three socially-disruptive traits that are present in varying degrees in the general population: psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellianism. Recent research has expanded the triad into a tetrad adding a fourth trait, “everyday sadism.” The current study explores the cognitive and affective correlates of a nonclinical sample of young adults as a function of these four traits. With this, we aim to answer the question: How are the Dark Tetrad traits related to fluid intelligence, executive function, social cognition, and theory of mind?
Camden Bibro ’22	Brain Hemispheric Asymmetries and the Roots of Creativity Ability	Creative expression is as complex as it is culturally significant to humans. This study investigates the role of brain hemispheric asymmetry relative to divergent and convergent thinking capabilities in people. The ability to come up with abstract and novel solutions to a single task is fundamental to divergent creative ability. In contrast, coming up with the most satisfying solution to a problem requires a use of logic and is dependent on convergent thinking ability. Here we have use neuropsychological methods to categorize participants based on their brain hemispheric asymmetries in alliance with their respective divergent & convergent thinking abilities.
Alexia Perugini ’22	Executive Function, Social Cognition, and Vulnerability to Targeting by the Dark Tetrad	The “Dark Tetrad” are four socially-disruptive traits present in varying degrees in the general population: psychopathy, narcissism, Machiavellianism, and everyday sadism. The current study explores the cognitive and affective correlates of a nonclinical sample of young adults as a function of these four traits. This study aims to answer the research question: Do people who present in ways that are antithetical to the Dark Tetrad (e.g., the “Light Triad”) and/or people at increased risk of targeting by the Dark Tetrad exhibit unique cognitive or affective profiles?
Riley Strathmann ’22	Subclincal Pathology and Creative Ability	There is longstanding, anecdotal evidence of subclinical pathologies having enhanced creativity. Many of the world’s most successful artists, such as Vincent Van Gogh or Ernest Hemingway, had mental illnesses and attributed it to their success. Studies have investigated this correlation in the past, but the assessment of creativity often contained one of two flaws. In this investigation, exhaustive measures were taken to assess creativity in a way that would parse out which aspects of creativity were influenced by which specific pathologies. Creative ability was divided into divergent and convergent tasks and then further subdivided into verbal and non-verbal tasks. These subdivision would correct the shortcomings of previous investigations that were either overly general or failed to account for the verbal disadvantage of many pathologies.
Jack Johnson ’22	How Processing Biases Manifests in the Social Skills of Broad Autism Phenotype Individuals	The broad autism phenotype (BAP) describes a population of individuals who report subclinical levels of autism spectrum symptoms (ASD). Three facets of the BAP are: Aloofness, Pragmatic Language, and Rigidity. It has been well researched that individuals with ASD have a local processing bias, multiple executive functioning weaknesses, and experience a variety of social deficits. More research is needed to determine whether differences in processing style can explain weaknesses that BAP individuals encounter in social situations. Understanding the processing biases in a nonclinical sample of young adults will allow us to investigate how processing style manifests itself in social situations.
Tasha Jones ’22	Quantifying the Uncertainty of Infrared-based Star-Formation Rates for Compact Starburst Galaxies	Our universe forms stars very inefficiently. One reason for this could be feedback from massive stars causing the shutdown of star formation in galaxies. To explore this idea, we estimated star-formation rates (SFRs) for a sample of compact starburst galaxies that exhibit powerful galactic winds. We measured infrared luminosity and performed a Monte Carlo error analysis to quantify the statistical uncertainty on the infrared-based SFR estimates. We have also compared with SFRs estimated using different tracers and have found discrepancies that could point to each tracer identifying SFR averages over different timescales.
Kieran Edmonds ’22	Using Optical Spectroscopy to Measure Recent Star Formation Rates for Compact Starburst Galaxies with Fast Outflows	The universe forms stars inefficiently, and a possible cause is the quenching of star formation by stellar feedback. We present results for a sample of compact starburst galaxies that provide insight into quenching by stellar feedback. We calculate the star formation rates of these galaxies using emission-line luminosities from optical spectroscopy. We also measure the amount of dust attenuation at optical wavelengths. We discuss the uncertainties and discrepancies in the measurement of star formation in the last 10 million years, obtained using the methodology summarized above, and in the last 100 million years, obtained separately using infrared photometry.
Chidubem Umeh ’22	Exploring the Relationship between Stellar Mass, Star Formation Rate, and Gas Outflow Velocity in a Large Sample of Galaxies	Galactic outflows are thought to be an important mechanism for reducing the efficiency of star formation in galaxies. We present new results on the relationship between stellar mass, star-formation rate, and gas outflow velocity in a large sample of galaxies. In particular, we use measurements of hydrogen emission lines to estimate the star-formation rate and dust content for a sample of 300,000 galaxies. These measurements will inform subsequent work with spectral stacking to explore how outflow properties depend on galaxy properties.
Molly O’Brien ’22	Are Self-Esteem and Attention to Environment Related to Perceived Social Pressure around Eating at Bates College?	Previous literature suggests that individuals with lower self-esteem tend to match other people’s food intake more so than individuals with higher self-esteem. The current study extended previous research by examining the relationship between self-esteem, attention to environment, and perceived social pressures around eating at Bates College. The results suggest that there is a negative relationship between self-esteem and perceived social pressure, as well as a positive relationship between attention to environment and perceived social pressure. This means that students with lower self-esteem or more attention to their environment may experience higher perceived social pressure around eating.
Amelia Waite ’22	No Such Thing as a Typical Serial Killer: Theoretical Integration and Review of Psychological Literature	What drives a person to kill in cold blood? And, what drives them to do it repeatedly? According to the FBI, committing multiple murders is rare, accounting for less than 1% of all homicides committed in a year. Biological, psychological, and sociological factors all contribute to serial killers’ behavior. This theoretical integration and review explores previous research focused on the development of and motive for serial murder. Research from an array of fields is considered, including biology, psychology, sociology, and criminology. The current review analyzes the methods used to study serial killers and concludes with specific suggestions for future research.
Kayta Tsemo ’22	Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in Self-harming Adolescents	For my project, I focused on the subsection of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) called dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). This is a modified version of CBT that was invented in the 1980’s. DBT is primarily used for those with borderline personality disorder but can be modified and applied to other mental illnesses. My project talks about the efficacy of DBT when used with adolescents who self harm and have suicidal intent. Multiple studies have been conducted and I compiled this research to determine whether or not DBT is an effective treatment for adolescents who suffer from these problems.
Fernando Rojas ’22	Legacy of Colorism: Skin Tone’s Impacts on African American Men’s Racial Identity and Relationship with Liberatory Practices	The conceptualization and implementation of colorism during slavery still impacts the experiences of light skin and dark skin African American men, which could potentially affect their racial identity and relationship with liberatory practices. The purpose of this literature review is to create connections among the ideologies of colorism, potential differences in racial identity development for light-skin and dark-skin African Americans, and their participation in liberatory practices. This review will provide further perspectives on the effects of colorism on African American men’s racial identity and liberatory practices, which may lead to the creation of a model that connects these three domains.
Tara Ellard ’22	The Stability of Meaning in Life Evaluations: The Relationship Between COVID-19 Pandemic Related-Stress and Meaning in Life	I conducted exploratory analyses of the participants’ perceived changes in meaning in life values and the amount of stress experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Meaning in life was defined by emphasizing three main facets: coherence (whether one feels like their life makes sense), purpose (whether someone has goals), and significance (whether someone feels as though they matter on a large scale) (Martela & Steger, 2016). Pandemic stress was measured by asking participants to reflect on their stress in the past seven days in relation to the pandemic. I correlated pandemic stress and the consolidated value of the three meaning facets.
Sevigne Pak ’22	The Culture of Silence Within Asian American Communities: Factors that Contribute and Psychological Impact	Within Asian American communities, there is a notable reluctance to actively combat or address experiences with racial discrimination. This culture of silence not only perpetuates, albeit passively, racial discrimination against Asian Americans, but also limits vital access to social support. The purpose of this study is to understand the factors that contribute to this culture of silence, as well as the psychological impact it has on Asian American individuals. We expect that willingness to confront prejudice, a collectivist orientation, and internalized racism will significantly predict a culture of silence. Additionally, we predict that a culture of silence will predict worse mental health outcomes for Asian Americans.
Caleb Bolden ’22	Isolated Social Media Use, Anxiety, and Depression during COVID-19	I propose that, during the era of COVID-19, the lower end of the social density threshold has been reset by the need to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The purpose of this study, under the assumption that the low extreme on the social density continuum was reset, is to bridge the gap between social media use and its effects on anxiety during a COVID-19 quarantine. This poster considers the association between perceived isolation, social media, and anxiety. Analyzed through linear regression, all interactions, other than social media as a moderator, were significant.
Quinn Squiers ’22	Anti-Blackness in the Face of Economic Downturns: The Effects of Inflation on Intergroup Relations	Using national unemployment rates, researchers have concluded that economic turmoil provokes racial animus. While unemployment has been a useful predictor of economic conditions, this study suggests that rates of inflation may also indicate economic distress. This study will investigate whether increasing levels of inflation predict more unfavorable attitudes toward Black individuals (i.e., feelings of anti-Blackness) from White individuals. To test for this correlation, data will be collected from the American National Election Studies along with yearly inflation rates, provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index, and compared across time.
Margy Schueler ’22	Predicting Social Mobility: The Relationship Between Social Dominance Orientation and Estimates of Future Mobility among Racial Groups	Americans overwhelmingly overpredict levels of economic movement in the country, specifically when individuals estimate the historical economic advancement of minority groups, despite economic gaps between Black and White Americans persisting over time. Past work demonstrates that conservative ideology and support of social systems predict overestimates of historical social mobility. Research indicates that individuals who are high in Social Dominance Orientation (SDO) see their status as being threatened by subordinate groups. Therefore, my research predicts that individuals who have high SDO will project higher future rates of social mobility of subordinate groups than will individuals who are low in SDO.
Yoyo Tang ’22	Maximization on Infidelity and Happiness in Romantic Relationships: Do Maximizers Cheat More and Feel Less Happy (than Satisficers) When in Love?	Maximization is a decision-making strategy that seeks to maximize one’s utility by extensively searching for better choices. Consumers who show maximization are called maximizers. The other consumers who would settle with a choice that just exceeds their satisfaction threshold without looking for alternatives are called satisficers. Previous research has shown that maximizers feel less satisfied with their decisions. My research would examine the decision-making mechanism of maximization in romantic relationships, by analyzing if maximization intention leads to a higher frequency of infidelity and lower satisfaction level in romantic relationships.
Sophie Matt ’22	Unicorns at Stake: Gender and Racial Bias in Venture Capital Investing	Women entrepreneurs work to build companies and gain investment, even though they are significantly underfunded compared to male counterparts. This gender biased funding gap occurred in 2021 as women entrepreneurs only received 2.3% of total venture capital investment in the US. This research presents a clear funding gap between genders, but there also could be a potential underinvestment of Black entrepreneurs. This funding gap could be due to inherent gender and racial bias possessed by individual investors. I will investigate how gender and racial bias of mock investors affect willingness to invest in hypothetical entrepreneurs.
Sean Vaz ’22	How Does the Strength of an Individual’s In-Group Identification Moderate their Perceptions of Black Women Athletes in Mainstream Media?	The coverage women athletes receive by sports media is marginal compared to their male counterparts. However, the type of coverage female athletes receive differs based on their race. In sports media, Black women athletes are often portrayed using sexist and racist discourse. This research examines the individuals exposed to sports media to understand their attitudes towards Black female athletes. This research aims to understand how an individual’s race and how much they identify with their racial group influence their attitudes towards Black female athletes.
Michelle Kim ’22	Women, Age, and Race: Engaging in Different Presentations of Femininity of the Self on Social Media	Under the model of intersectional invisibility, individuals with multiple marginalized identities are not represented or recognized socially. Black women are subject to intersectional invisibility where they are marginalized within their constituent gender group. Differences in perspectives of femininity were found between Black women and White women, such as Black women finding feminine appearance more important. However, no differences were found when comparing feminine self-presentation on social media. This contradiction could be due to the age of samples used in previous studies. This study looks at how Black women use social media to combat erasures of their femininity based on age.
Erick Ramos ’22	Can the Number of Parents Present Predict Interdependence and Independence? Family Structure and the Self-Construals of the Child	Family structure can have different psychological effects depending whether the household is led by two parents or one parent. Socioeconomic status can also affect different significant psychological outcomes, two of these being the self-construal levels of independence and interdependence. The current study examines the relationship between the family structure in which one grew up in and the independence and interdependence levels that they have. Based on previous research, I predict that respondents who were raised in single-parent households will report higher levels of interdependence, and respondents who grew up in two-parent households will report higher levels of independence.
Ky Jenkins ’22	Character Creation and Representation in Video Games	Video games are growing in popularity. They constitute a medium that offers physical manipulation of the story and characters as the narrative unfolds and maintains interaction between the player and narrative. As research suggests, identification with fictional characters can differ by race. The purpose of this study is to examine how one’s racial group membership and self-investment with that racial group may influence one’s preference for playing as a character in a video game. I predict that Black participants with high self-investment in their race will prefer to play characters who are perceived to be of the same racial group.
Grace Beaudet ’22	Recess and Developmental Play-based Interventions for Elementary Students	Play is essential for the optimum development of children, as group play supports children’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development. Recess is a time that allows for children to engage in group play. The purpose of this study is to examine current recess practices at Raymond A. Geiger Elementary School in Lewiston, Maine. Through research, observations, interviews, and surveys, interventions will be provided to the school regarding additional ways to encourage and implement group play while considering appropriate developmental milestones for all children.
Andrew Botelho ’22	The Impacts of the Coronavirus Pandemic on Team Cohesion among Bates College Athletes and Possible Solutions to These Impacts	Members of the Bates College Department of Athletivs wants to know how the coronavirus has impacted their student-athletes. This study researches the impacts of coronavirus disruptions such as isolation time and canceled practices/seasons on team cohesion among Bates student-athletes. Team cohesion refers to the ability that teammates have to work together and rely on each other to obtain a common goal. This study concludes by providing useful information to Bates College Athletics regarding solutions and plans that can be implemented to increase team cohesion during the ongoing pandemic.
Susanne McGrady ’22	Let’s Talk About Sex: The Potential of School-Led Sexual Health Workshops for Parents	Sexual stigma often discourages individuals from discussing sexual health and this lack of discourse deprives children of information about their own sexual development. Parents could be perfect sex educators but are often unaware of how to communicate with their children about sexual health. In my work with AASECT-certified sex therapist, Jennifer Wiessner, I look into survey data from Raising Sexually Healthy Children Workshops, analyze testimonials, and look into findings from past studies on parent-based sexual health interventions, to argue the potential benefits of school led sexual health workshops that emphasive parent-child communication to parents.
Tara Rodic ’22	Can Body-Focused Gratitude Intervention Reduce the Negative Effect of Viewing the “Ideal” Bodies on Social Media?	The purpose of this research is to examine the moderating effect of body-focused gratitude intervention on viewing thin “ideal” imagery on social media among female-identifying college students. In the experimental condition, participants were asked to complete a body-focused gratitude intervention after which they were presented with a slideshow containing thin “ideal” imagery from social media, followed by different measurements assessing body image. Based on previous studies (Homan et al. 2014; Dunaev et al. 2018), this research hypothesized that body-focused gratitude intervention will moderate the negative impact of social media imagery. Given the growing popularity of social media, this study aims to build on previous research that explored individual-level strategies that would prevent or lower the negative effects of social media on one’s body image.
Julia Feist ’22	Cats ’22: An Impact Assessment of the Foster Cat Program at Auburn Public Library	The current study examines the partnership between the Auburn Public Library (APL) and the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society (GAHS), in which the GAHS provides the library with one or more foster cats to care for until their adoption. The library has housed 29 cats since December 2020, allowing patrons and potential adopters to interact with fosters by request. Potential benefits of the program include increased morale among APL employees, visibility and social opportunities for shelter cats, and higher satisfaction among library visitors. These benefits were assessed in three ways: employee interviews, adopter surveys, and exit surveys for foster cat visitors.
Ari Dalia ’22	The Effects of Social Media on Young Adult’s Perception of Body Image during the COVID-19 Pandemic	No abstract submitted
Taylor Dionne ’22	Anxiety Disorder-related TikTok Videos: A New Generation Z Mental Health Activity?	The purpose of this research study is to identify if a social media platform such as TikTok can serve as a positive psychology intervention (PPI) for members of Generation Z and increase an individual’s sense of well-being. With the surge of mental health issues during the pandemic such as depression and anxiety, this study will attempt to see if viewing humorous anxiety related TikTok videos may serve as a PPI activity. The participants will include Bates College students of all four class years who will take an online Qualtrics survey and will be randomized into one of three conditions: the control group, the TikTok video activity group, and the Acts of Kindness PPI group.
Alexa Flores ’22	Healing as a Binational People: The Yaqui Separated by an Arbitrary Political Border	This research explores the cultural and psychological impacts of the U.S./Mexican border separating Yaqui people and the ways these communities maintain relations, ceremonies, and a collective identity. The study aims to work towards healing from colonial impacts of an arbitrary political border. This is theoretically based on Indigenous psychology, liberation psychology, and American Studies. By employing an ethnographic methodology, community elders and leaders in Old Pascua Tucson, Arizona, are interviewed to center their voices and experiences. This study contributes to decolonization functioning as a disruption of the hierarchies of validity and knowledge perpetuated by western scholars within psychology.
Riley Theriault ’22	Observing the Role of Diagnosis on the Relationship with Religion in Catholic People with Mental Health Diagnoses	Mental health is under-discussed in the Catholic faith, and Catholic teachings can cause psychological and social distress in individuals with mental health issues. One-on-one interviews are conducted to discuss participants’ experiences with their religion and mental health. Data analysis involves identifying themes and patterns in how relationships with religion may have changed in adults who reported distress practicing Catholicism and mental health issues. This study can aid therapy treatment of Catholics by understanding what is beneficial and unhelpful for participants. This study can inform how mental health treatment and diagnosis can affect a person’s religiosity and mental distress and well-being.