Use the Find a Presenter form to search for Presentations, Presenters or Mentors, with a variety of search criteria for each.
- Enter or select your search criteria, and click the Search button to generate results.
- Filter your results using the Keyword Search Filter text box just above the results table.
- Clear your search criteria and filters using the Reset Values button, and then search again.
- Use the List All button to clear all search criteria and reload the page with a list of all presentations in the results table.
- When using the Category and/or Section filter, you will see the following prefixes. Here are their meanings:
- GS: Graduate Student
- MS: Medical Scholar
- Postdoc: Postdoctoral Scholar
- UG: Undergraduate Student
Keyword Search
Export Results
| Presenter Name(s) | Mentor and Co‑Author Name(s) | Abstract Title | Session Time / Location | Poster Number / Oral Presentation Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adame-Ramirez, Emely | Yunusa, Ismaeel | Opioid overdose risk associated with concomitant use of benzodiazepines and gabapentinoids: A metanalysis of real-world evidence View Full Text Abstract TextPurpose: The concurrent use of opioids with benzodiazepines (BZDs) or gabapentinoids (GABAs) has been linked to an increased risk of opioid overdose. This meta-analysis consolidates evidence from real-world studies to quantify this risk and inform safer prescribing practices. Methods: A structured search of PubMed and EMBASE identified observational studies on overdose risk with opioids plus BZDs or GABAs. Inclusion criteria were adults receiving opioids concurrently with BZDs or GABAs, and reporting risk estimates for overdose. Study selection and data extraction were conducted by two independent reviewers. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A random-effects meta-analysis pooled odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Variability was assessed with Cochran’s Q and I², while sensitivity analyses examined the influence of individual studies. Results: The analysis showed a significant increase in overdose risk among patients receiving BZD + Opioid compared to opioids alone, with elevated odds (pooled OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.57–4.26; I² = 99.2%) and hazard (pooled HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.06–2.29; I² = 98.7%). Sensitivity analyses confirmed this increased risk, with all estimates remaining significant (OR range: 1.87–3.15; HR range: 1.35–1.96). Similarly, GABA + Opioid use was associated with a higher overdose risk, with odds (pooled OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.22–1.57; I² = 18.0%) and hazard (pooled HR 2.69, 95% CI 1.47–4.92; I² = 87.0%) ratios elevated. Sensitivity analyses showed minimal changes in OR estimates (range: 1.34–1.47), while HR estimates varied (range: 2.02–3.13) but remained significant. Study quality was moderate-to-high, with median NOS scores of 8 for both cohort and case-control studies. Conclusion: Combining opioids with BZDs or GABAs increases the risk of opioid overdose. Sensitivity analyses support the reliability of the findings, and the moderate-to-high quality of studies further strengthens the evidence. Clinicians should consider alternatives to co-prescribing opioids with BZDs/GABAs and use safety measures, such as naloxone co-prescription, when necessary. Future research should refine study methods and evaluate interventions to reduce overdose risk. |
1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level) |
Poster: 155 |
| Adebajo, Korebami | Downey, Austin | Impact of Charging Rate and State of Charge on Electeric Aircraft Battery Degradation Using a Multi-Domain Model View Full Text Abstract TextElectrifying transportation is an increasingly important initiative among governments and companies seeking alternatives to carbon-intensive vehicles. As the demand for electric vehicles in the automotive industry rises, other sectors, such as aerospace, are also exploring electric applications. However, relying on batteries as the primary power source presents several challenges, including high costs, limited availability of raw materials, and safety concerns. Additionally, inconsistent battery use can lead to varying rates of battery degradation, creating further difficulties. This study aims to understand battery degradation in electric aircraft when subjected to different charging parameters through multi-domain modeling. The long-term goal is to facilitate the commercialization of electric aircraft by making them more economically viable while considering real-world constraints. We developed a multi-domain model in the MATLAB-Simscape environment to simulate different flight profiles and track battery degradation in terms of battery capacity. To analyze battery behavior under various conditions, we examined several flight routes characterized by distinct load profiles with varying charging parameters. The analysis focused on a battery pack composed of Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt cells with a capacity of 260 Ah at 418 V, resulting in a nominal pack capacity of 109 kWh. We evaluated the effects of battery degradation across three flight routes in the southeastern United States under two charging rates: 1.5C and 2C. The results indicate that charging at 1.5C causes significantly less degradation than charging at 2C. Furthermore, starting flights with an initial state of charge of 80% rather than 100% further reduced battery degradation across all flight routes. Variations in flight route length were found to have minimal effect on degradation. By incorporating battery degradation considerations into route planning, this study offers pathways to enhance the sustainability and economic viability of electric aviation. This suggests that careful selection of battery charging parameters can help mitigate some of the current limitations faced by electric aircraft. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 66 |
| Adelson, Esther Arnold, Virginia |
Shustova, Natalia Thaggard, Grace |
Tunable Photoisomerization Kinetics in Photochromic Metal-Organic Frameworks View Full Text Abstract TextDevelopment of the next generation of functional materials, including ultra-efficient optoelectronics and tunable heterogeneous catalysts, relies on rapid switching between two or more distinct forms of photochromic molecules (e.g., spiropyran derivatives) in the solid state.1 Previously, the goal in the field of photochromic materials has been achieving solution-like photoisomerization kinetics in the solid state, which can be realized through integration of photochromic molecules in porous host platforms, such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs).2 However, we present a fundamentally novel approach to surpassing solution-like photoisomerization kinetics in the solid state through strategic engineering of the MOF pore environment. Integration of spiropyran derivatives in MOFs followed by evacuation of the solvent molecules in the pores created a solvent-free environment that resulted in a breakthrough in the preconceived “speed limit” for photochromic molecules. The constructed solvent-free pore environment resulted in ~1,000-fold enhancement of the photoisomerization rate in the solid state even compared to the same spiropyran derivatives in solution, setting a record in the field of photochromic molecules. Further, we have studied the mechanism of rate enhancement through systematic analysis of three different classes of photochromic compounds (e.g., spiropyran, hydrazone, and diarylethene derivatives). The reported breakthrough in photoisomerization rate and the corresponding hybrid materials were extensively characterized using UV-vis, diffuse reflectance, and 1H NMR spectroscopies as well as powder X-ray diffraction analysis.3 These studies represent a conceptually novel approach to achieving unprecedented rapid photoisomerization in the solid state, which is required for specialized applications, including the development of artificial muscles, as well as efficient and high-speed optoelectronic devices. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 54 |
| Adkins, Kaitlyn | Sayers, Christina | Progressing from Competency to Proficiency as a Nurse View Full Text Abstract TextUpon completing my junior year of nursing school at the University of South Carolina, I was hired to work as a Nurse Extern at Piedmont Medical Center in Rock Hill, SC. Working as a Nurse Extern allowed me to work alongside Registered Nurses in various departments throughout the hospital, while also gaining first-hand experience working with a diverse patient population and improving upon my patient care skills. My everyday tasks in this role included providing basic patient care, assisting with patient’s activities of daily living, and observing nurses as they administered medications, performed procedures, and provided patient education. As a nursing major, this experience was invaluable to the development of my nursing skills by allowing me to put into practice all the knowledge I had gained in the classroom. The time I spent in the classroom provided me with the foundation of knowledge required to be a safe and competent nurse. But my time in the hospital provided me with a real-world setting in which I could apply that knowledge to different patient situations and learn to adapt my care accordingly. I was also given the opportunity to build upon my communication and critical thinking skills, which are essential in becoming a proficient nurse. I am thankful that this opportunity helped me grow as a nursing student and will have a long-lasting impact on the type of nurse I will be upon graduation. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 247 |
| Aguilar-Alvarez, Ricardo | Jasnow, Aaron | Acetylcholine in the anterior cingulate cortex acts to specify context fear learning. View Full Text Abstract TextTo survive, animals must use experience to adapt flexibly to changing and uncertain conditions. Animals typically use generalization as an adaptive process to assess if new objects or situations are likely to produce the same outcome as those previously experienced. Thus, unlike a lack of discrimination, which is the failure to detect a difference between two stimuli, generalization is an active cognitive process that promotes appropriate behavioral action across contexts and stimuli (Shepard, 1987). Likewise, generalizing fear responses is evolutionarily adaptive because it supports survival by enabling animals to avoid threatening situations similar to ones experienced previously but come at the cost of missing out on food resources or access to mates. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC, A24) is a critical node in a larger circuit that regulates behavioral adaptation, fear, and generalization to contextual cues. Current theories on the role of the ACC in context memory is that it becomes progressively more important for context retrieval as time progresses but is less important for initial encoding. In particular, the ACC and its projections to the basolateral amygdala (BLA) play a critical role in the expression of remote context fear generalization. However, our data demonstrate that the ACC regulates the expression of generalization rapidly after learning, challenging the idea that its role in context representations increases over time. This suggests the ACC encodes context or threat representations that support generalized responses, but the mechanisms are unclear. Here, we show that acetylcholine signaling in the ACC during context learning serves to restrict the encoding of generalized threat memory through the activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. This suggests that dysfunctional cholinergic signaling could play a role in the generalization that occurs following traumatic experiences and in poor memory specificity more broadly. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level) |
Poster: 11 |
| Aina, Peace | Alshareef, Ahmed | Controlled and Repeatable Impact Device for Tagged MRI 3D Acquisition View Full Text Abstract TextControlled Impact Device for Tagged MRI 3D Acquisition TBI is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. In the United States alone, the CDC estimates that there were over 200,000 TBI-related hospitalizations. Detailed imaging and quantification of the brain’s biomechanical response under injurious conditions is important in developing tools to prevent and mitigate TBI. One such method of data collection is Tagged Magnetic Resonance Imaging (tMRI ). Tagged MRI allows for the non-invasive measurement of brain deformation (strain) induced by head motion. Gathering relevant tMRI data requires a head rotation device that can safely and repeatably produce head rotations (> 500 repeats for a 3D acquisition). The aim of this study is to develop an MRI-safe head rotation device with controlled impact severity and repeatability for tMRI experiments. The device was designed, fabricated, and tested to consistently produce axial rotation of the head. The manufacturing processes included machining and 3D-printing using a variety of materials. The final material were chosen to be lightweight and rigid, and included parts made from machined Delrin, Polylactic Acid (PLA), and 3D-printed carbon fiber nylon. Simple finite element analysis was computed on key parts to guarantee strength and rigidity at loads simulative of the real-world application. Angular position was collected on a Micronor MR330 MRI-safe absolute encoder and processed in Micronor ZapView Software. The device achieves an average unassisted angular velocity of 4.60 ± 0.41 rad/s and a peak impact acceleration of 396.83 ± 16.39 rad/s². An MRI-safe pneumatic piston system is being developed to enable peak acceleration values approaching 862 rad/s², and maximum velocity upwards of 10 rad/s. MATLAB code was devised to simulate the function of the device and the impact of the piston under different patient conditions to aid in calibration. The design of the device also includes a modular head holder, which can be modified for additional directions of rotation in the future. |
1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 102 |
| Akers, Kelsey | Damon, Dorlisa | The World is a Classroom: Education Through Travel View Full Text Abstract TextIn May 2023, I traveled abroad through the Darla Moore School of Business at USC. My classmates and I traveled to Belgium and France, studying business opportunities in the European market. We explored various local and international companies and political institutions, including Microsoft, UPS, the European Parliament, the United Nations Environment Programme, as well as participated in various cultural activities. Studying abroad gave me the chance to see how business works outside of the U.S. and experience different cultures firsthand. I learned about key differences in regulations, sustainability efforts, and consumer behavior compared to the U.S. One of the biggest takeaways was seeing how companies adapt to globalization and change customer expectations. Talking with professionals and seeing businesses in action helped me connect what I've learned in class to the real world. The impact of my experience extends beyond academics, influencing my perspective on international business and the importance of cultural awareness. It also made me more confident in pursuing opportunities that go beyond what I originally thought possible. Studying abroad challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, and it’s something that will shape how I approach my career moving forward. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 217 |
| Akter, Fahmida | Larson, Leila Frongillo, Edward |
Impact of Prenatal Cash Transfers and Nutrition Intervention on Perinatal Maternal Attachment in Bangladesh View Full Text Abstract TextObjective Household and psychosocial conditions (e.g., food security, family relationship, maternal stress) can shape perinatal attachment, which is essential for children's cognitive and socio-emotional development. This study tested whether adding fortified foods or top-up cash to the Bangladesh government's standard Mother and Child Benefit Programme (MCBP), which targets critical drivers of attachment, improves maternal-fetal and maternal-infant attachment. Methods This cluster-randomized trial was conducted in six rural subdistricts in Bangladesh. We recruited 4,620 pregnant women in their second trimester who were MCBP-eligible (e.g., aged 20-35 y, from a poor household, and in their first or second pregnancy). The 144 study clusters (ward groups) were randomly assigned to one of three study arms: 1) Standard MCBP (~7.40 USD monthly cash transfer and nutrition education), 2) Standard MCBP + top-up cash of ~9.25 USD (during pregnancy), or 3) Standard MCBP + fortified foods (during pregnancy). Data were collected at the second pregnancy trimester (study enrolment), at the third trimester, and at two months postpartum. Maternal-fetal attachment was assessed in the third trimester using Prenatal Attachment Inventory. Maternal-infant attachment was assessed at two months postpartum using Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire. Intervention impact was estimated as the difference in mean scores between arms using cluster-adjusted mixed-effects regression. All analyses were intent to treat. Results At enrolment, socioeconomic and demographic characteristics were similar among study arms. In the third trimester, no differences in maternal-fetal attachment were found across arms. At two months postpartum, maternal-infant attachment was better in women who received food transfers during pregnancy than women in the standard MCBP arm (geometric mean ratio:1.35, 95% CI: 1.07-1.71, p=0.01). Intervention effects from food transfers were observed for each subscale of maternal-infant attachment, e.g., impaired bonding, infant-focused anxiety, and rejection. No effect occurred in the top-up cash arm. Conclusions Fortified foods with a base cash transfer during pregnancy can improve maternal-infant attachment. The lack of effect in the top-up cash arm could be related to cash being used by others and for purposes unrelated to maternal and infant health, warranting further research. |
1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level) |
Poster: 69 |
| Alabdulmunim, Fahad | Spence, Gina | Leveraging USC’s Opportunity: My Teaching Assistant and Lab Instructor Roles at USC View Full Text Abstract TextDuring my studies at the University of South Carolina, I had the valuable opportunity to work first as a Teaching Assistant and later as a Lab Instructor within the Electrical Engineering department. These roles significantly enhanced my ability to teach and deepened my understanding of engineering concepts. My main focus was to develop effective teaching strategies that would make complex engineering topics clearer and more accessible to students. As a Teaching Assistant, I led discussions, created and graded assessments, and provided personalized support to students, adapting my teaching to better meet their needs. In my subsequent role as a Lab Instructor, I was involved in refining and enhancing the design of laboratory experiments. This task allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, making the learning experience more applicable and engaging. The feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating enhanced comprehension and increased interest in the subject matter. My approach led to notable improvements in student engagement and academic performance. These experiences not only strengthened my teaching and leadership skills but also reaffirmed my commitment to a career that integrates technical expertise with educational responsibilities. These roles were pivotal in advancing my professional skills and deepening my understanding of the significant impact that effective teaching has on student success. I played a crucial role in enhancing and refining existing projects, contributing substantially to their success. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 242 |
| Alberto, Kye | Miller, Sarah | Lost in Translation? Not Anymore! View Full Text Abstract TextI have had the amazing opportunity to learn Spanish while attending USC Salkehatchie in Walterboro, South Carolina, which has improved my academic experience and changed my viewpoint as an international student from Melbourne, Australia. My cultural awareness has grown in a unique triangle from Australia to the United States and then to Costa Rica. I've been forced to step outside of my comfort zone, and I've made unexpected connections with people while learning a new language abroad. One of the most defining moments of my language journey was my trip to Costa Rica, where I had the chance to engage with native Spanish speakers in real-world settings. Stepping into a country where Spanish was the primary language forced me to apply what I had learned in class, challenging me to adapt my speech, think on my feet, and initiate conversations rather than passively observing. Communicating with locals gave me a newfound confidence in my ability to understand and respond in Spanish, even if I wasn’t perfect. These small but meaningful exchanges reinforced how language is more than just words—it’s a bridge between cultures, allowing for deeper human connection. I actively engaged in class discussions to increase my fluency in Spanish, employing strategies like word-switching and brief conversation practice. My main project was studying various Spanish-speaking nations and investigating how language reflects cultural values and historical contexts. My respect for the diversity within the Spanish-speaking community has grown because of this research, which also made it clearer to me how language influences communication and identity globally. This experience reflects my Australian childhood, adapting to the different lifestyle of the U.S. while studying, and learning Spanish, all of which have taught me valuable cultural differences. Above all, academics—learning Spanish has formed my ability to adapt to different environments and to acknowledge cultural diversity with open-minded acceptance. It has increased my confidence in unfamiliar spaces and fostered a sense of belonging in a global community. I've learned from this experience that language is about more than just talking; it's about connecting, comprehending, and appreciating the world more broadly. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 203 |
| Alberts, Halley | Brown, Heather | Barriers to Routine Use of Fascia Iliaca Blocks for Pain Management: A Comparison Between a Resource-Rich and a Resource-Limited Setting View Full Text Abstract TextBackground: Parenteral pain medications are the primary treatment for pain in the emergency department (ED), but they carry disadvantages such as respiratory depression, over-sedation, drug interactions, and risk of addiction. Ultrasound-guided regional nerve blocks (UGRNBs), specifically the fascia iliaca (FI) block for proximal femur fractures, offer a safe and effective alternative. This study examines barriers to routinely implementing FI blocks for proximal femur fractures at two tertiary care centers with differing resources. Methods: Thirty-nine emergency medicine residents at a high-resource US tertiary care center and 25 residents from various specialties (including EM, anesthesia, surgery, orthopedics, family medicine, radiology, and internal medicine) at a resource-constrained center in Malawi received training in UGRNBs, with an emphasis on FI blocks. Twelve months after the training, participants completed a survey—electronically at the US site and via paper in Malawi—that combined yes/no, open-ended, and 5-point Likert scale questions. Results: Survey response rates were 87% (34/39) in the US and 28% (7/25) in Malawi. Nearly all participants agreed that FI blocks were useful and improved patient care (median rating: 4/5). A majority felt confident performing the procedure (68% of US residents and 100% of Malawian residents). Despite this confidence, most had not performed an FI block in the preceding year (62% in the US and 57% in Malawi). US residents reported that they “rarely” considered but did not perform an FI block (median response: 2), whereas Malawian residents reported “sometimes” (median response: 3). For US residents, the primary reason for not performing a block was that patients’ pain was already well-controlled (27%), followed by time restrictions (19%) and patient comorbidities (19%). Malawian residents equally cited time restraints, equipment unavailability, and lack of supervision (each 33%) as barriers. Conclusion: Although FI blocks are recognized as useful and are performed with confidence, their infrequent use suggests that specific, tailored approaches are needed to overcome local barriers. Time constraints, resource limitations, and procedural prioritization issues may hinder the adoption of UGRNBs as a primary pain management modality in the ED. |
1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level) |
Poster: 152 |
| Aldridge, Luke | King, Sarah Morris, David |
Vietnam Veterans Oral History Project: Wartime Expectations, Realities, and Reflections View Full Text Abstract TextThis poster will display the preparation, methodology, and results of my Vietnam Veterans oral history project which has taken place during the fall 2024 and spring 2025 semesters. The project focuses on the disparity between Vietnam War GIs’ expectations and the realities they encountered in Vietnam. Building on existing historical scholarship, it asks, how did expectations about war, derived from the WWII generation, mass media, and boot camp training, shape the experiences of Vietnam veterans before, during, and after the war? This academic year will see 10 veteran interviews, uploaded to a website specifically made for the project. The question list for these interviews contains over 30 questions and is inspired by recent scholarship and Vietnam veterans’ published memoirs. My poster will present preliminary findings from these interviews, as well as quotes and images, while focusing on how Vietnam-era GIs’ expectations, influenced by American culture and by the US military, shaped their responses to boot camp, to challenges in the war zone, and to postwar civilian life. |
1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 13 |
| Alewine, Teleah | Harris, Eboni | Promoting Health Literacy Through Evidence-Based Practices View Full Text Abstract TextBackground: Health literacy plays a vital role in patient outcomes. With the use of intake and social determinates of health assessments along with spending time with a patient, the nurse can tailor health literacy teaching to a patient’s needs. When taking a comprehensive approach, effective teaching can occur and patient needs such as financial stability, access, safety, emotional support, and environment can be positively impacted. Purpose/Objectives: The purpose of this research is to provide insight on how the nurse’s role as an educator can lead to positive outcomes for patients. The objectives of this research are to review evidence-based practices related to health literacy education and how it relates to short- and long-term patient success. Methods: The literature reviewed were 12 peer-reviewed articles published within the last 5 years found on medical research databases. The searches included “nurse role in health literacy”, “health literacy related to patient outcomes”, and “evidence-based practice for patient education”. Results/Conclusion: Based on this review, health literacy and education should start at the first interaction with a patient. There are several strategies nurses may use that are evidence-based to assist in tailoring the education for a patient. By using these, patients may experience improved quality of life and health outcomes. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level) |
Poster: 56 |
| Alex, Ashley | Lucas, Alexandria Curtis, Alec |
Abstract: Minocycline-Induced Hyperpigmentation in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Diabetes View Full Text Abstract TextMinocycline, a tetracycline antibiotic, is used off-label in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) due to its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. This medication is associated with a myriad of adverse effects including gastrointestinal adverse effects, dizziness, rash, headaches and rarely hyperpigmentation of the skin, gingiva, teeth, bones, eyes, thyroid gland and other organs. The incidence of this rare adverse effect depends on the total cumulative dose exposure. We present a case of an 80-year-old male patient with a history of insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism and rheumatoid arthritis, who developed symptoms of minocycline-induced hyperpigmentation while on a regimen of Minocycline HCL (100 mg capsule BID on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) for RA diagnosed in 1998. The patient initially presented in December 2021 for a diabetic eye exam, where he was found to have mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) bilaterally and bilateral scleral thinning. No significant changes were noted regarding the minocycline regimen at that time, with plans to control his diabetes and closely monitor his scleral thinning. However, in July 2023, during a follow-up visit to the ophthalmology clinic, the patient reported blurred vision, decreased vision, and floaters. Examination revealed mild NPDR, scattered peripheral dot-blot hemorrhages and significant scleral hyperpigmentation bilaterally. Minocycline is known to cause pigmentation disorders, particularly in areas of chronic inflammation, and is more common in diabetics. In this patient, who had significant scleral thinning from RA and underlying diabetes, the development of minocycline-induced hyperpigmentation was not unexpected. Therefore, minocycline should be used cautiously in individuals with additional risk factors, such as diabetes and older age. This case underscores the importance of recognizing potential adverse effects of long-term minocycline therapy in the management of RA, particularly when patients present with ocular changes or hyperpigmentation. Close monitoring and early intervention are essential for managing these side effects in vulnerable populations. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level) |
Poster: 139 |
| Aliste, Diana | Kathrein, Katie | Investigating Pathogen-Triggered Activation in ING4-Deficient HSPCs View Full Text Abstract TextAll immune cells originate from hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) within the bone marrow niche, where their potency and fate are tightly regulated to ensure balanced hematopoiesis. This regulation is governed by chromatin remodeling factors that modulate transcriptional programs in response to environmental cues, as required by physiological needs. One such regulator, inhibitor of growth 4 (ING4), is a histone acetyltransferase within the HBO1-HAT complex, coordinating the expression of hematopoietic transcription factors essential for HSPC homeostasis. Previous studies using an ING4-knockout murine model revealed dysregulated cytokine transcription in bone marrow derived cells. Analysis of mRNA expression demonstrated high levels of cytokine, but serum analysis revealed no increase in cytokine proteins secreted, suggesting that an external stimulus may be required to induce their production. Since many cytokines are produced in response to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), exposure to PAMPs may stimulate cytokine protein production in ING4-deficient HSPCs and influence differentiation. PAMPs are recognized by Toll-like receptors (TLRs), a class of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that initiate immune responses. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a bacterial endotoxin, engages TLR4 on the cell’s extracellular membrane, releasing cytokines. Meanwhile, polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C), a synthetic analog of double-stranded RNA, simulates viral infection by binding TLR3 on the endosome within the cell, as well as PRRs RIG-I and MDA5, stimulating interferon production. These molecules ultimately trigger pathways that induce differentiation, proliferation, and activation. HSPC homeostasis may become imbalanced due to a foreign invader such as a pathogen, triggering pathways that could skew hematopoiesis to favor one lineage over another. To investigate ING4’s role in HSPC activity following pathogen stimulation, lineage-negative enriched BM cells from ING4-knockout and wild-type mice were cultured with LPS and poly I:C. Through culture-forming unit (CFU) assays and flow cytometry analysis, the shifting population and activity of ING4-deficient HSPCs will provide insights on key mechanisms governed by ING4 upon pathogen stimulation. Since ING4 is frequently downregulated, deleted, or mutated in malignant cancers, elucidating its role in immune regulation may offer new avenues for enhancing immunotherapies. |
1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level) |
Poster: 16 |
| Amezcua Reyes, Luz | Morris, Caleb | Sevilla Experiences: From Flamenco to Top Connections View Full Text Abstract TextEver since I was little a girl I’ve always been interested in learning about different countries and travelling around the world. Which led me to major as international studies major so I can be a diplomat and focused on crime, culture, peace, and business. Therefore coming to the university of south Carolina I decided to study abroad in Sevilla because they offer me classes on the international level for example they had international trade, international marketing and they also have ones like EU migration and my favorite flamenco. But they also had other good ones. I believe that to be a good global leader and work on diplomacy one must immerse themselves into other countries, cultures, and international relations. In Sevilla I did that. I immerse myself into their culture by taking flamenco classes and staying with a host family and took classes like EU migration to learn abi0ut their current issues and also took classes about the economy because I want to be able to have different perspectives. Coming back from Spain I know that I am much better prepared. |
1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 229 |
| Amin, Bhavya Roopalkumar | Wang, Xuewen | Effects of Cumulative Sleep Restriction and Recovery on Physical Function Parameters: Study Design View Full Text Abstract TextBackground: Sleep has been identified as a significant factor influencing the quality of life, even when diet, stress, and exercise are typically managed. Sleep significantly impacts quality of life, influencing physical functioning and cognitive abilities. Partial sleep deprivation can lead to decreased alertness and increased fatigue. However, the cumulative sleep restriction on physical performance remains unclear. It is also unknown whether recovery sleep following sleep restriction can “recover” physical performance. This study aims to explore how cumulative partial sleep deprivation and subsequent recovery affect physical performance. Methods: A sample of healthy participants (n=20) aged 18-35 years will be recruited. They must self-report regular sleep patterns without diagnosed sleep disorders. The study follows a three-phase protocol: - Phase 1 (baseline): Participants will undergo physical function tests after three nights of normal sleep (> 7 hours per night). - Phase 2 (sleep restriction): Participants will be instructed to reduce 90 minutes of sleep from their baseline level per night for five consecutive nights. Physical function assessments will be conducted after three and after five nights of restricted sleep. - Phase 3 (recovery sleep): Participants will be allowed to sleep freely for two days. A final physical function assessment will take place at the end of this phase to determine if physical function has been restored. Throughout the study, participants will wear an ActiGraph device to track their sleep patterns and will complete daily sleep logs and questionnaires assessing their subjective sleepiness. Physical function assessments will include: Aerobic capacity: VO2 Max; Functional test: stair climb test, Time up and Go test, 6 Minute Walk Test; Balance and Flexibility: single leg stance & Sit reach test; Strength: squat test and handgrip strength; and Wingate (anaerobic test), choice reaction time test and T- test (agility and co-ordination). Power estimation: Assuming a correlation of 0.65 among repeated measures, the sample size of 20 allows to detect a difference between two conditions of medium effect size with 72% power at a significance level of 0.05. |
1:00-2:30 p.m. Columbia Ballroom (CMCC upper level) |
Poster: 79 |
| Anderson, Anthony | Gibson, Kelly | A Multi Proxy Perspective on Abrupt Climate Change in the Tropics during Early MIS 3 from the Cariaco Basin View Full Text Abstract TextMarine Isotope State 3 (MIS 3) was a period of pronounced abrupt climate variability, marked by Dansgaard-Oeschger (D/O) cycles characterized by sharp temperature increases and gradual cooling phases in the high latitude Northen Hemisphere. Similar-scale changes are observed in records of hydrographic, hydrologic, and oceanic change in records worldwide, suggesting global connections/feedbacks for D/O cycles. Despite this, the exact mechanism by which D/O cycles are initiated remains unresolved. Previous research has shown that the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), an equatorial belt where the trade winds meet and promote strong convection, responded dynamically to D/O oscillations, shifting latitudinally in concert with temperature changes and sea ice extent in the North Atlantic. The Cariaco Basin, located off the northern coast of Venezuela, provides an exceptional natural archive for investigating these climate shifts. At 10°N, it is sensitive to the ITCZ’s migration, which drives changes in precipitation, fluvial sedimentation, upwelling, productivity, and biogenic sedimentation. Its anoxic deep waters preserve high-resolution (multi-decadal), laminated sediment records that capture these changing marine and terrestrial climate signals with amazing fidelity. Here we show new records of sea surface hydrography, terrigenous input, and productivity for the interval spanning Interstadial 15 (~56,000-53,000 years ago), at the onset of MIS 3. For surface hydrography, we use the δ¹⁸O of Globigerinoides ruber, a planktic foraminifera which is found in high abundance at our site. Changes in weight %Fe and sediment color reflect terrigenous input, while changes in weight %TOC (total organic carbon), sediment color, and weight % Mo are indicative of productivity, biogenic sedimentation, and anoxia respectively. This robust, multi-proxy investigation into records that respond to ITCZ positioning during the earliest D/O cycles provides insight into the forcing mechanisms and feedbacks during early MIS 3. Our preliminary data indicate that some proxies (e.g. δ¹⁸O) change in concert with high latitude variability, while others (e.g. %TOC) are more disparate, indicating an important role for boundary conditions in early MIS 3. Fully understanding boundary conditions for rapid climate change can help us better predict the response of the tropics in our current changing climate regime. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 84 |
| Anderson, Ashley Sellers, Rachel |
Shinkareva, Svetlana V. Yang, Xuan |
A Behavioral Coding System for Orofacial Movements in Response to Auditory, Visual, and Mental Imagery Stimuli in Misophonia View Full Text Abstract TextMisophonia is a disorder that is characterized by extreme emotional and physiological reactions to certain sounds, known as triggers. While it is not an uncommon experience to have unpleasurable reactions to aversive sounds, those with misophonia experience more intense reactions to their specific triggers, such as chewing, coughing, or lip-smacking. While some studies have investigated the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying misophonia, little is known about the involuntary facial and motor reactions that accompany this condition. The goal of this project was to develop a standardized coding system to qualitatively describe behavioral features that characterize misophonic response to triggers that might otherwise be overlooked. The orofacial responses were recorded when participants, both with and without misophonia, were seeing, hearing, and thinking about trigger, aversive, and non-aversive stimuli during physiological monitoring. We first exhaustively examined any facial and motor actions observed during the video recordings, resulting in seventy unique observable actions during the 5 second stimulus presentation window. Then, we qualitatively categorized those actions as 9 higher-level behavioral features, including the change or movement in the head, face, mouth, eyebrows, eyes, body, and breath. An in-house python-based graphical user interface was developed to code the identified behavioral features for the video recordings one trial at a time. To validate this standardized system, two coders, blind to the stimuli type (trigger, aversive, or non-aversive), independently coded the features for a participant with misophonia. High inter-coder consistency was reached. For misophonia participants, triggers were clearly separated from aversive and non-aversive trials based on the identified orofacial features. This standardized coding system can be used to examine mimicry in response to orofacial movement sounds as a coping strategy in misophonia. This system can also link external behavioral responses to internal physiological changes and shed light on the understanding of the somatovisceral mechanisms underlying misophonia. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 160 |
| Anderson, Gracie | Kates, Patrick Hamlyn, Penny Hicks, Mark Lee, Andrew |
Automated Optimization of Resin Selection, Wash Parameters, and Elution Parameters for Protein A-Based Purifications View Full Text Abstract TextProtein A affinity chromatography is widely used for purifying Fc-domain molecules like monoclonal antibodies (mAb), bispecific antibodies (bsAb), and fusion proteins. Optimizing downstream steps such as resin choice, wash steps, and elution pH can enhance yields, reduce host cell protein (HCP) contamination, and minimize product aggregates and fragments. This study demonstrates rapid screening of various resins, wash buffers, and elution buffers using an automated liquid handler (Hamilton Microlab STAR) with loosely packed resin beds (IMCStips). Three mAbs and one bsAb were purified from cell cultures using four resins, eight wash conditions, and eight elution parameters. To verify that dispersive solid phase extraction behaved similarly to traditional column-based methods, each resin was used to bind polyclonal human IgG, and binding capacities were compared to manufacturer binding capacity values. Each of the four analytes was then purified using the four resins and either eight unique wash conditions previously shown to affect HCP clearance or eight different elution conditions. Products were analyzed for yield, monomer fraction, HCP content, and purity. The final test combined three optimal wash and two elution conditions to select parameters that maximize HCP clearance and reduce aggregation while maintaining yields. Ideal resin, wash buffer, and elution conditions were identified for each analyte, with the least stable analyte showing the greatest variability among resins and the elution parameter showing the greatest impact on yield and monomer percentage. Moreover, NaCl-based wash conditions, as well as those containing a denaturant, showed the greatest HCP clearance across the resins tested. Demonstrated is a rapid, automated means for identifying key, bespoke parameters for downstream purification of Fc-domain containing molecules. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 53 |
| Ansani, Tremayne | Poulain, Fabienne | Analysis of BAI Receptor Expression in the Developing Visual System in Vivo View Full Text Abstract TextPrecise organization of neuronal connections during development is critical for processing information. In the visual system, retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) extend axons to their brain target, the optic tectum, where they form connections in a spatially arranged manner. The organization of retinal connections into spatial maps is essential for visual perception and is tightly regulated. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation and maintenance of the visual system remain largely unknown. One group of molecules with an unclear role in this process are the Brain-specific Angiogenesis Inhibitors (BAIs), a subfamily of adhesion G-protein coupled receptors. BAIs have been identified as key regulators of synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity and have been associated with various neurological disorders. Despite these findings, little is known about the potential role of BAIs in visual system development. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the expression of BAIs in the developing visual system of zebrafish in vivo. Four genes are known to encode BAI proteins: adgrb1a (BAI1a), adgrb1b (BAI1b), adgrb2 (BAI2), and adgrb3 ((BAI3). I first cloned the coding sequences of BAI receptors using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), digestion, ligation, and bacterial transformation. I then generated digoxigenin-labeled mRNA antisense and sense probes using PCR amplification and in vitro transcription, and used these probes for in situ hybridization on embryos fixed at 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours post-fertilization (hpf). Among the four BAIs genes, adgrb2 exhibited the highest expression in the RGC layer of the retina at 96 hpf and 120 hpf, suggesting it is expressed by RGCs. To further investigate the role of BAI2, I am currently using a CRISPR-mediated mutagenesis approach to knock-down adgrb2 and assess the effects on retinotectal map development using confocal microscopy. Altogether, results from my project will clarify the roles of BAIs in neural circuit formation during development of the visual system in vertebrates. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 40 |
| Anthony, Aidan | Colebank, Mitchel | Computational Modeling of Mechanical and Biochemical Pathways in Brain Endothelial Cells View Full Text Abstract TextBrain endothelial cells play a crucial role in regulating homeostasis by controlling blood flow through vasoconstriction and vasodilation in response to biochemical and mechanical factors. This demonstrates their importance in controlling vasoactivity and in maintaining the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. Large scale computational models of signaling pathways in endothelial cells have been created to identify potential therapeutic targets. These models have mainly focused on biochemical pathways within brain endothelial cells, where the dysregulation of these pathways may contribute to common diseases such as glioma, Alzheimer’s, and ischemic stroke. However, a limitation of these models is their exclusion of mechanical forces such as shear stress, which is a key input for endothelial cells. This project expands upon a previous mathematical model to include inputs for mechanical forces like shear stress and cell stretch. The model includes a network of nodes, constituting proteins, genes, and regulatory factors, connected via edges describing reactions between nodes. Each reaction is modeled using logic-based differential equations, and a sensitivity analysis is conducted by systematically knocking down nodes to determine which ones had significant effects on the rest of the system. This model advances towards a more complete understanding of the interplay between biochemical and mechanical pathways and their combined effect on endothelial cell signaling. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 49 |
| Apostolico, Paige | Ballou, Julia | Leading With a Purpose to Empower Others View Full Text Abstract TextThroughout the entirety of my four years at the University of South Carolina I have been committed to a student organization called USC Dance Marathon. I joined this organization for its philanthropy of fundraising for the local children’s hospital. I began as a staff member, served as a sophomore director, and have been a Vice President on the executive board for the past two years. Each year I grew within the organization, growing my roles and responsibilities, and learning firsthand how to best lead with others. It is through multiple classes that I have taken at USC that have also enhanced my leadership skills and understanding of others on a fundamental basis. The students I’ve worked beside all share a similar passion for changing kids’ health, but it is the skills of the leadership board that bring out the best in the current and future leaders of USC Dance Marathon, to which can be spread into our community. I will be presenting on how I’ve had the opportunity to be a leader myself, but also the opportunity to facilitate leadership in others through my beyond the classroom experience and my education here at USC. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 288 |
| Arcement, Jake Patel, Mitt |
Hudac, Caitlin Wingard, Ezra McFadden, Jackson Nelson, Cailee |
The Influence of Anxiety on Social Preferences: Exploring Group Size and Duration Choices View Full Text Abstract TextAnxiety is an evolutionary adaptation that aids humans in coping with environmental stressors (Bateson et al., 2011). Alongside survival, it is also relevant in social situations (Mermelstein, 2022). There is minimal literature on how anxiety influences social decisions related to quantity, such as time spent with others or preferred group size. We seek to understand the associations between anxiety and quantity-related social choices. To explore this relationship, we analyzed decisions made within a novel computer task and examined their connection to anxiety symptoms. We hypothesize that people with low social preference will have increased anxiety. Adults (age 18-35, N = 34) and adolescents (age 12-17, N = 25) completed the "FortuneTeller" task, where they completed 80 decisions for hypothetical social activities that varied by group size or duration. Based on their choices, participants received a personalized “fortune” placing them into one of five social preference groups: low social preference ("Sloth"), high social preference ("Butterfly"), preference for larger groups ("Rabbit"), preference for longer durations ("Swan"), or balanced preferences ("Chameleon"). The Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), a brief and reliable self-report scale for screening and assessing the severity of generalized anxiety disorder (Spitzer et al., 2006), was used to measure anxiety levels and examine their relationship to social decision-making patterns. We will compare participants based upon their classified group via an analysis of variance (ANOVA) test to see if the means of the GAD-7 scores differed per group. This study aims to explore how anxiety levels influence decisions about social quantity. By studying the effects of anxiety on social decisions, interventions such as therapy can be developed to improve social functioning for high anxiety individuals. Bateson, M., Brilot, B., & Nettle, D. (2011). Anxiety: An evolutionary approach. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 56(12), 707–715. https://doi.org/10.1177/070674371105601202 Mermelstein, J. J. (2022). The evolutionary roots of anxiety and its implications for socialization and group cohesion. Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Disorders, 6, 247–252. https://doi.org/10.26502/jppd.2572-519X0168 Spitzer, R. L., Kroenke, K., Williams, J. B., & Löwe, B. (2006). A brief measure for assessing generalized anxiety disorder: the GAD-7. Archives of internal medicine, 166(10), 1092-109. |
9:30-11:00 a.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 169 |
| Archambault, Mary | Ellermann, Melissa Mitchell, Mary |
Evaluating How Endocannabinoids Alter the Fecal and Ileal Microbiomes View Full Text Abstract TextCrohn’s Disease (CD) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect all areas of the gastrointestinal tract. In the US, the prevalence of IBD is rising, with approximately 2.8 million patients diagnosed, resulting in an estimated $8.5 billion in healthcare costs. IBD is linked to microbial dysbiosis, a disruption in the balance between the host and its microbiome, which can worsen disease. The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in maintaining gut homeostasis by regulating gut and immune functions, making it a potential therapeutic target for CD. The endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) can signal via the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. Monoacylglycerol lipase (Magl) degrades 2-AG to terminate signaling. Previous 16S rRNA sequencing data from our lab showed that 2-AG signaling via the CB1 receptor significantly changes microbiome composition in the feces. Therefore, the goal of my project was to confirm these findings using targeted quantitative PCR, and to determine if similar changes occur in the ileal microbiome. Treatment groups included: vehicle controls, a Magl inhibitor group to increase tissue concentrations of 2-AG, a group treated with Magl inhibitor and a CB1 antagonist to determine if microbiome changes are CB1-dependent, and a group treated with Magl inhibitor and a CB2 antagonist to determine if results are CB2-dependent. Mice lacking the CB1 receptor were also included. Feces and ileal contents of mice were collected one day post-treatment. DNA from intestinal contents were isolated for quantitative PCR with primers specific to each microbe of interest. In the feces, Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcus levels were significantly increased following increased 2-AG in a CB1-dependent manner. In the ileum, gut microbes Clostridiales (including Lachnospiraceae) and Lactobacillales decreased significantly following increased 2-AG and Turicibacter and Enterobacteriaceae significantly increased. These results demonstrate that CB1 signaling impacts the relative abundances of important gut bacteria that are thought to maintain or disrupt microbial homeostasis in CD in the colonic and ileal regions. Future directions include investigating whether microbial alterations in the ileal microbiome are CB1-dependent similar to the fecal microbiome. |
1:00-2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall (CMCC lower level) |
Poster: 31 |