Student Research Symposium Program Fall 2024

Regular review and updates ensure the program remains aligned with the student’s progress and evolving needs, adapting as they grow. Lucinda Lombaard - “Echoes of Movement” (poster session 2) By using images of hands, this piece of art seeks to convey the terrible effects of Parkinson’s disease. The hands will be depicted in a range of tremors and stiffness to represent the mental and physical difficulties that people with the disease encounter. The piece aims to increase awareness of the difficulties of living with Parkinson’s disease by showing the delicate interaction between strength and vulnerability. The artwork will act as a moving reminder of the resiliency of individuals impacted, promoting empathy and understanding among community members and stimulating conversations about neurological disease research and support. Lucinda Lombaard - “Unveiling the Risks: The Role of Organic Chemicals in the Etiology of Parkinson’s Disease and the Imperative for Occupational Health Measures” (session 2) This presentation consists of research that investigates the potential link between organic chemicals, particularly volatile organic compounds like methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), and the onset of Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and understanding how these chemicals contribute to its etiology is crucial. The presentation highlights the need for enhanced occupational health measures to protect workers in industries exposed to these neurotoxins. By analyzing case studies and health records, the research emphasizes the health implications for exposed individuals and advocates for improved safety protocols and further investigation into the long-term effects of organic chemical exposure on neurological health. Landen Lopez - “Unveiling Human Papillomavirus The Dormant Assailant (HPV): Mechanisms, Risks, and Public Health Impact” (session 11) Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common, if not the most misunderstood virus, affecting roughly 80% of individuals that are sexually active across the entire world. With over 200 strains, HPV is linked to multiple cancers. This presentation will explore how HPV infects cells, evades immune detection in our bodies, and, at most times, remains dormant. We will address public misconceptions and why awareness remains low despite the virus’s prevalence and the potential chaos that can arise. Emphasizing prevention through vaccination and screening, we will examine the efficacy of current vaccines and the challenges of increasing uptake, particularly in under- resourced areas. By bridging knowledge gaps about HPV’s biology, risks, and preventive measures, this presentation aims to empower healthcare providers and educators to advocate for improved public health initiatives to reduce HPV-associated cancers. Hugo Lorenzo Vieira Dos Santos - see Jada Dangerfield, “Do You Need Therapy?” Natasha Louw - “Fractal Geometry and its Effects on Human Movement Patterns” (session 4) This study will explore the potential of fractal geometry to

advance human movement patterns, focusing on enhancing performance, diagnostics, and adaptability across various physical contexts. By examining the complex patterns inherent in human movement patterns, fractal analysis provides unique insights into motor control, variability, and adaptability. The question whether human movement patterns can be advanced using fractal geometry will be addressed within the paper while viewing the possibilities of fractal analysis in fields ranging from sports biomechanics and rehabilitation to neurological diagnostics. The use of fractal geometry may be proven useful in improving performance metrics, detecting early signs of physical/neurological disorder, and could even contribute to personalised training programs. The goal is to make use of existing research to seek ways to optimize fractal geometry in improving human motion and to offer improvement in both health and athletic performance. Stacy Maimur - “Septicemia (Sepsis)” (poster session 2) Sepsis is a serious, life-threatening condition that happens when the body has an extreme reaction to an infection. It usually starts with a bacterial infection that spreads, causing the immune system to go into overdrive and attack its tissues and organs. This can lead to organ failure and even death if not treated quickly. Early symptoms include fever, fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, and confusion, which can worsen rapidly. Treating sepsis requires immediate care, usually with antibiotics, fluids through an IV, and support to help organs work properly. Despite medical advances, sepsis is still a major health problem worldwide, especially among older people, those with weakened immune systems, and people with other health issues. Angelica Mancilla - “Rising Stars in Debate: Poetry Interpretation” (session 7) Feeling lost is not as uncommon as we might think it is, especially not in college. According to Business Wire 51% of students are not confident in their career path when they enroll into college and more than half of students change their majors at least once. Furthermore, according to PsychCentral thought college, students get to work on several skills such as, managing emotions, establishing an identity, and clarifying their purpose. Feeling lost is part of the process of getting to know ourselves. Although it is unpleasant, it’s often a good sign, we are making major changes to ourselves and giving space for growth. With the poetry I’m Trying to Put Together a Puzzle by JJ Evendon, Clear Vision by Faerie, Lost in the Woods by Allan Brunmier, Mirror by Rita Dove, Human by Rachel H, She is Clarity and Confusion by Perry Poetry And Life is a Mystery by Julia L. Guy Mapstone - see Luca Hasse, “MVC Game Day - Behind the Scenes”

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