JSU Student Symposium 2025

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  Iron Deficiency and Athletics Performance: Implication, Interventions, and Strategies for Optimization

  Alicia Abner

  Iron is a crucial mineral that supports oxygen transport, energy metabolism, and muscle function. It is primarily stored in hemoglobin and myoglobin, facilitating oxygen delivery to muscles during exercise. Additionally, iron plays a role in critical metabolic pathways, such as the electron transport chain and enzyme activity. While adequate iron levels are necessary for optimal performance, excessive iron can be harmful, leading to oxidative stress and cellular damage. Hepcidin, a key regulatory protein, controls iron absorption and distribution, ensuring adequate levels while preventing toxicity. Increased hepcidin levels can limit iron availability, which is particularly relevant for athletes who experience iron loss through training and sweat. Iron deficiency, with or without anemia, is common among athletes due to increased iron losses from training and insufficient dietary intake. This can impair oxygen transport, reduce endurance, and negatively affect strength, power, and recovery. Iron is important for training athletes, as it is needed to produce red blood cells in response to low blood oxygen. An examination of iron metabolism in athletes with its impact on performance and the importance of iron for physical performance.

  Athletes with low iron stores may benefit from supplementation, especially during high-intensity training or altitude exposure. However, excess supplementation in those with sufficient iron does not enhance performance and may lead to increased hepcidin levels, reducing iron absorption. Additionally, adequate levels of vitamins D and B₁₂ can support iron metabolism and red blood cell production. For athletes, balancing vitamin D and B₁₂ intake is essential for overall performance, energy, and recovery. Regular attention to dietary sources will help maintain these vitamins at optimal levels for athletic performance.

  Iron is essential for endurance athletes, especially if they are trained hard. If an athlete has low ferritin, iron supplements can be taken to help their body produce red blood cells. But, if an athlete already has enough iron, taking more will not improve their performance. The current rules on iron management are unclear, so more research is needed to find the best iron levels and how to supplement them. Overuse of iron supplements can cause high levels of a protein called hepcidin, which can hinder your body from absorption and use of iron properly. However, increasing your intake of the right calories and enough vitamin D and B₁₂ could help reduce levels and improve how your body uses iron.

  In conclusion, Iron plays a vital role in athletic performance by supporting oxygen transport and muscle function. Deficiencies can significantly impair endurance and strength, while proper management of diet and supplementation can help maintain optimal iron status. Future research should refine guidelines for iron supplementation in athletes to maximize performance without causing adverse effects.

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  The Long-Term Effects of Chronic Static Stretching on Skeletal Muscle, Hypertrophy, Strength, and Flexibility in Healthy Individuals

  Kalib Alexander

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Static stretching is widely used to improve joint range of motion, with additional proposed benefits for injury prevention and athletic performance. However, its long-term effects on muscle hypertrophy remains unclear. While static stretching is commonly used to enhance joint range of motion, its long-term impact on muscle hypertrophy remains uncertain. This is because some studies suggest that chronic static stretching may improve muscle strength and power, though its effects on hypertrophy remain unclear. While some studies suggest that long term static stretching may contribute to muscle strength gains, its specific impact on skeletal muscle hypertrophy remains uncertain. Studies on the effects of static stretching on skeletal muscle hypertrophy indicate considerable heterogeneity, making it hard to determine a precise understanding of the impact of static stretching on muscle hypertrophy.

  Research indicates that chronic static stretching alone does not significantly contribute to muscle hypertrophy, though prolonged and varied stretching regimens may have modest effects, particularly in trained individuals. Findings suggest that chronic static stretching alone does not significantly contribute to muscle hypertrophy, though varied and prolonged stretching regimens could produce modest gains, particularly in a trained individual. Static stretching may contribute to hypertrophy when performed with diverse techniques or for extended durations. Although there is some evidence that suggest a potential hypertrophic effect, variability among studies makes it difficult to draw firm conclusions. Individuals with greater training experience achieve larger muscle gains than less trained individuals following chronic stretching. Meta regression analyses suggests that a variety of stretches and longer stretching durations are associated with greater skeletal muscle hypertrophy.

  The findings suggest that greater exercise variety and extended duration stretching may enhance hypertrophic adaptations, though the overall effect remains modest. Stretching also has a clear positive effect on joint range of motion but gains in joint range of motion is not associated with changes in muscle hypertrophy. Some findings suggest female participants may experience a more defined hypertrophic response to chronic static stretching, though the practical significance remains uncertain.

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  Graphic Design | Brianna Bailey

  Brianna Bailey

  Graphic design entry for 2025 Student Symposium

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  Tailfeathers: The Need For Community, Recreation, & Green Spaces in College Towns

  Brianna Bailey

  Tailfeathers is a project aimed at branding an outdoor entertainment venue designed for the residents of Jacksonville. It will feature a restaurant, ice creamery, mini-golf course, arcade, and mini amphitheater. Visitors will have unrestricted access to the premises, with fees only required for participation in specific activities. This venue is envisioned as a lively outdoor social hub where both Jacksonville’s college students and families can enjoy themselves affordably and conveniently.

  The concept for Tailfeathers was central to my BFA Seminar show. This proposed project seeks to enhance the experiences of Jacksonville’s students while fostering discussions about how design can contribute to positive change within a community. Insights from research on the impact of green spaces, community, and recreation on students' well-being and academic performance have informed the development of Tailfeathers and its visual identity. It offers an engaging outdoor environment where students can relax and recharge. The venue will include a restaurant and bar, ice cream shop, mini-golf course, arcade, open-air pavilion, and mini amphitheater. Tailfeathers' branding draws inspiration from nature, with a calming color scheme that promotes a sense of peace, encouraging guests to take a break from daily stressors. It provides an opportunity for students to step away from their studies and immerse themselves in an inviting, natural setting.

  The imagery of native birds incorporated into the branding highlights the venue's connection to the outdoors and its surroundings. Tailfeathers takes its name from two iconic birds significant to Jacksonville—the golden eagle and the gamecock—honoring the area's heritage while also cultivating a relaxed atmosphere.

  Through the creation of an inclusive space for socializing and recreation, Tailfeathers aims to alleviate student stress, foster stronger connections within the community, and promote healthier lifestyles. My goal is for this project to not only benefit students but also spark wider conversations about the influence of design in shaping a city’s future

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  Exploration of Transition Metal Complexes for Use in Photoinduced Electron Transfer (PET) Pathways

  Hunter Ballard and Victoria Bamigboye

  Within the modern scientific and industrial framework, there exists a current and ongoing demand for clean, safe, accessible, efficient, affordable, scalable, and sustainable energy that does not rely on fossil fuels and other carbon-based energy. Although some clean energy sources do exist and are utilized, such as solar, wind, or hydropower, they each fall short because of their intermittent nature. As a result, there are continuing investigations into photocatalytic hydrogen production via photoinduced electron transfer (PET) pathways as a potential solution. The first step required to make this process viable includes finding a sufficient catalytic system. Water-soluble transition metal complexes were the target of this research due to the abundance, low cost, and benign nature of each compound, and they were primarily investigated by first attempting to synthesize a molecule that fit these constraints. They were coupled with a photosensitizer so that electron transfer kinetics could be studied which is a fundamental step for hydrogen production. In this poster, our initial attempt toward this effort will be explained.

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  The Machine Learning Race: Can Algorithms Truly Predict Bitcoin’s Volatility

  Prashant Basyal

  An unpredictable, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating whirlwind is the Bitcoin market. We test the limits of human intelligence and machine accuracy as we observe its erratic movements, posing the straightforward but important question: Can algorithms really make sense of something so unpredictable?

  We tested a variety of machine learning models in this study, ranging from more sophisticated neural networks like RNNs and LSTMs to more conventional techniques like decision trees and support vector machines. Like a lone explorer, each model looks for the mysterious patterns concealed in the price and volume swings of Bitcoin. While deeper models take their time, processing the complexities, but at a cost, others move quickly but only touch the surface.

  But which strategy is most effective? That's what we want to learn. By contrasting these models side by side, we can determine whether more straightforward algorithms are sufficient or whether deep learning's added complexity actually gives an advantage. Does efficiency and speed trump more profound understanding? Or do complexity and patience result in more accurate forecasts?

  However, this is about more than technology. It speaks to something deeply human—the insatiable desire to predict, comprehend, and impose order on chaos. Regardless of how sophisticated our models become, Bitcoin remains unpredictable, reminding us that even the brightest minds and most advanced algorithms are sometimes simply looking for meaning in the unknown. Some modern neural networks detect many noises in data, whereas traditional algorithms barely detect anything. The approach to find the perfect model should be by utilizing the different algorithms and adding the market sentiments through social media, news, and many more.

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  Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity

  Tyler Best

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to fill an important role in cybersecurity, offering advanced capabilities that can aid in detecting, mitigating, and preventing cyber attacks. However, AI presents significant challenges as adversarial attackers increasingly exploit AI vulnerabilities. This paper examines AI's potential to help enhance cybersecurity measures while addressing its limitations and risks. Through a review of current AI applications and frameworks, this paper identifies opportunities for improving defense mechanisms against sophisticated and complex cyberattacks. This discussion explores ethical considerations, the role of anomaly detection, and the integration of AI in guarding critical infrastructure. Recommendations for future research emphasize the need for explainable AI (XAI) and organizational collaboration to safeguard the digital landscape in all forms, from schools to smart cities.

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  Effects of Caffeine Ingestion on Pulmonary Kinetics and Muscle Fatigue During Severe-Intensity Cycling Exercise

  Kaysen Bibb

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Caffeine ingestion has been studied concerning its effects on pulmonary oxygen uptake kinetics, muscle fatigue, blood lactate concentration, and perceived exertion during severe-intensity cycling exercise. A primary hypothesis from research has been to explore whether caffeine can reduce the slow component and muscle fatigue without altering the time constant of kinetics. In a controlled study, physically active men, in their mid to late twenties, participated in cycling tests under caffeine intake (6 mg/kg body mass) and a placebo, not knowing which one they received. The tests measured the difference between the gas exchange threshold and peak, with an isokinetic sprint conducted before and after the test to assess the participant’s muscle fatigue. Several physiological and performance components were analyzed, including kinetics, primary time constant, slow components, heart rate, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and peak torque.

  Caffeine ingestion did not significantly alter the primary time constant, or the peak torque compared to the placebo. It is suggested that caffeine does not affect the rate of oxidative metabolism or the accumulation of fatigue-related metabolites during severe-intensity exercise. Caffeine enhances the drive of active muscles.

  Caffeine’s ergogenic effects may not stem from changes in kinetics. Caffeine’s performance-enhancing properties involve other mechanisms, such as stimulation of anaerobic glycolysis and central nervous system activity. Caffeine ingestion can reduce the muscle’s ability to gain power during intense exercise and mentally drain an individual. Increased blood lactate concentration reflects a greater reliance on anaerobic metabolism, driving adrenaline release while decreasing RPE. This may be due to caffeine’s antagonistic effects on adenosine receptors, reducing the perception of fatigue and pain.

  In conclusion, caffeine ingestion does not influence kinetics or muscle fatigue during severe-intensity cycling. However, it reduces the perceived exertion and increases blood lactate concentration. The findings indicate that caffeine’s ergogenic effects are primarily through the central and metabolic pathways rather than direct changes in oxygen uptake kinetics or fatigue resistance.

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  Synergistic Potential of Creatine Nitrate and Caffeine on Cognitive and Exercise Outcomes: A Randomized, Double-Blind Crossover Study

  Faith Bonness

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Ergogenic aids, such as creatine nitrate (CN) and caffeine (CAF), have become staples for athletes aiming to optimize performance and cognition. Recently, there have been concerns over the effectiveness and safety of using supplementation to improve athletic performance. This study uniquely examines the short-term cognitive and performance effects of combining CN and CAF supplements.

  CN and CAF are two popular ergogenic aids that are commonly used to improve physical performance. CN is a version of creatine that is known to enhance solubility and absorption, boost muscle energy, improve exercise performance, and enhance muscle pump. CAF is a natural stimulant that has been shown to improve muscular endurance, enhance fat oxidation, reduce perceived effort, and boost energy in a rapid manner. It has also been proven to boost cognitive function with improvements in areas such as attention, vigilance, and reaction time.

  Twelve resistance-trained male athletes completed a randomized, double-blind crossover study involving four supplement conditions over seven days, with cognitive and exercise performance tests conducted after fasting and refraining from exercise. The treatments included CAF (400 mg/day), CN (5 g/day), a combination of CAF and CN, and a placebo. On testing days, the athletes were instructed to arrive at the testing site after fasting for 12 hours and refraining from exercise for 48 hours. Blood samples were obtained and analyzed to confirm the safety of the supplements. Forty-five minutes after ingestion, the athletes completed cognitive function assessments. Along with questionnaires and evaluations concerning sleep quality, CAF consumption, and side effects, the athletes determined their readiness to exercise. Next, the participants performed resistance exercises at 70% 1RM; three sets were completed, with the final set performed to failure. Finally, an anaerobic Wingate test was administered. Cardiovascular responses were monitored and recorded one minute after each exercise assessment.

  After analyzing the results from the trial, it was found that co-ingesting CN and CAF significantly enhanced cognitive function without affecting exercise performance, confirming the safety of short-term use. The co-ingestion of both supplements led to improved cognitive function, as assessed by cognitive function exams. The safety of these supplements, individually and combined, was confirmed as there were no significant changes or side effects with short-term use. The short-term exercise performance outcomes varied, and no significant improvements were observed. These findings suggest that combining CN and CAF can safely enhance cognitive function in resistance-trained athletes, offering a promising avenue for future research in sports nutrition.

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  Developmental Impact of Eugenol on Xenopus laevis Embryos: A FETAX Study

  Ashley Brazier

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Eugenol, a bioactive compound found in clove oil, is commonly utilized in pharmaceuticals (e.g., for alleviating toothaches) and cosmetics (e.g., as a fragrance). Despite its widespread use, data on its developmental toxicity is somewhat limited. This study investigates the impact of Eugenol on Xenopus laevis embryos through the Frog Embryo Teratogenesis Assay (Xenopus, FETAX), examining mortality, growth, and malformations. Adult frogs were given human chorionic gonadotropin via dorsal lymph sac injection and placed in breeding chambers. Fertilized embryos were collected the next morning, dejellied with 2% cysteine, and sorted at the small-cell blastula stage to commence testing. Twenty embryos were placed in 8 mL of FETAX solution within 20 × 15 mm plastic Petri dishes, with four control dishes and two replicates for each test concentration. Embryos were incubated at 24°C for four days, with daily removal of deceased embryos and renewal of solutions. At the experiment's end, measurements of mortality, malformations, and embryo length were recorded. Means, standard errors, ANOVA, Bonferroni tests, and Probit analysis were determine using Systat to determine the lowest observed effect concentration (LOEC), no observed effect concentration (NOEC), 96-hour LC50, and EC50 (malformation). Preliminary results indicated no significant changes in embryo length at tested concentrations. The LC50 was calculated as 6.4 mg/L (95% fiducial limits: 5.7–7.3 mg/L), while the EC50 for malformations was 2.9 mg/L (95% fiducial limits: 2.6–3.3 mg/L), resulting in a Teratogenic Index of 2.2. Teratogenic indices above 1.5 indicate heightened teratogenic potential. Observed malformations included facial abnormalities, edema, gut deformities, and stunted growth in a concentration-dependent manner. These findings suggest that Eugenol may have teratogenic effects, warranting further investigation to confirm these results

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  Empowering Female Athletes: Optimized Nutritional Strategies for Health, Performance, and Recovery

  Camryn Bren

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Nutrition plays a crucial role in optimizing sports performance and recovery. While a balanced diet is essential for enhancing performance, recovery, and overall health, research on nutrition tailored to female athletes and physically active women remains limited. As gender equality progresses in sports, there is a growing need to understand nutrition strategies specifically for female athletes and physically active women. Understanding why sports nutrition is important for both genders and not just nutrition for men will help bridge the gaps for the best supplements for female athletes and physically active women. Analyzing these studies will help nutritionists improve what works best for females. For instance, research indicates that nutrition plays a key role in addressing the unique physiological needs of female athletes. The findings were on physiological and hormonal fluctuations and dietary supplements in sports nutrition. Insights indicate hormonal fluctuations during the menstruation cycle, such as an increase in estrogen in the follicular phase and decreased levels in the luteal phase, which influence bone density, muscle mass, and metabolic responses. Findings also emphasize the importance of addressing deficiencies in Vitamin B12, Iron, Calcium, and Vitamin C to mitigate hormonal challenges and support overall health. Iron supplements can improve performance in anemic female athletes, but research on this is still limited. Research indicates anemia in females deals with a condition where the blood flow decreases to the organs and tissues. Also, the decrease in the iron supplement can cause side effects such as headaches, shortness of breath, fatigue and other decreasing symptoms. A high-carbohydrate diet supports glycogen replenishment and metabolism, leading to better performance and faster recovery. More research indicates that carbohydrates provide a source of energy for intense performance and can significantly help muscle recovery. Furthermore, macronutrients are Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, such as those found in grains, pasta, fruits, and saltine crackers. Studies indicate athletes with higher carbohydrates in dietary benefits are increasing energy while following strict dietary nutritional values. The glycemic influences blood sugar. Therefore, foods containing sugar or starches. Additionally, it plays a very dedicated role in the body. Finally, these insights indicate the need for gender-specific nutrition to help athletes optimize performance, recovery, and overall health in professional and recreational sports. For instance, it is tailored toward national strategies based on physical differences, hormonal imbalances, and specific energy demands, which can enhance endurance, strength, and injury prevention. In addition, personalized nutrition plans can address unique requirements such as bone health, muscle recovery, and metabolic variations, ensuring that male and female athletes achieve their careers and well-being.

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  Warden's Way: A Prison-Themed Social Deduction Card Game

  Austin Brown and Shane Dunaway

  This interactive demonstration will showcase the social deduction card game Wardens Way. This card game was created for our final in EH 252: Introduction to Game Studies. In Warden’s Way, each player has a role card designated as a prisoner or a prison guard, with the game master being the warden. The goal of the game is for the prison guards to confiscate all the “contraband” cards from the prisoners, putting those with such in “the hole”, eliminating them in the process. Two prisoner roles have their own special win conditions as well. Along with the demo, we will discuss the process of our game’s development and how what we learned during the course helped shape it into a working prototype to be tested in hobby shops everywhere.

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  Benefits of Telehealth in The Occupational Therapy Field

  Elizabeth Brown

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Telehealth has become an incredibly valuable tool in the field of occupational therapy, offering increased accessibility, flexibility, and enhanced communication among therapists, clients, and caregivers. Since COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has since proven beneficial for individuals in rural areas, those with mobility challenges, and those patients who need to limit exposure to illnesses. The integration of telehealth into occupational therapy also allows therapists, parents, and school coordinators to work better together. While critics argue that further research is needed to enhance telehealth’s effectiveness, ongoing studies and continuing education efforts continue to refine its implementation. Despite some limitations, telehealth provides a promising and evolving alternative for delivering high-quality occupational therapy services, making care more accessible and efficient for those in need.

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  Targeting RNA Polymerase I in Ewing Sarcoma Therapy

  Alexis Bruce

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Ewing sarcoma is a rare and aggressive pediatric bone cancer with poor survival rates in patients, as low as in 30% in advanced or recurrent cases. There are limited treatment options, making molecularly-targeted therapy vital to explore. Through CRISPR scans of Ewing sarcoma cell lines, ribosome biogenesis was highlighted as a potential target. As RNA polymerase I is a key component of ribosome biogenesis, the cytotoxic ability of two RNA Polymerase I inhibitors, CX-5461 and BMH-21, were used on Ewing sarcoma cells. The efficacy of the drugs on two cell lines were determined via measuring cell viability, migration potential, and colony formation potential after drug treatments. RNA levels were measured after drug treatment to determine the level of inhibition of RNA polymerase I. The growth of multicellular spheroids that resemble tumors were treated and grown over time to show the growth of the cancer cells, as well as the cytotoxicity of the RNA Polymerase I inhibitors. This presentation details the results and efficacy of the two potential targeted therapies on Ewing sarcoma cell lines.

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  Creatine Supplementation in Medical Rehabilitation: A Potential Catalyst for Recovery and Functional Improvement

  Katherine Carter

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  The use of creatine supplementation in medical rehabilitation is emerging as a transformative tool, receiving widespread recognition for its natural ability to increase recovery time and improve functional outcomes in patients with a variety of medical conditions and injuries. Creatine can potentially be the bridge between sports performance and medical rehab as research suggests that the supplement can increase muscle mass and strength and aid in a patient’s faster recovery, particularly in individuals with muscle weakness or atrophy, neurological conditions that impair muscle function like Parkinson’s, and injury-related disorders. Research indicates that creatine supplementation is crucial in the enhancement of muscle recovery and strength, which are vital to optimize rehabilitation gains. In muscle weakness and atrophy patients, supplementation of muscular bulk has proved to be highly advantageous in speeding up the healing process, leading to increased mobility and independence. The effectiveness of creatine lies in the ability of the drug to work by supplementing the phosphocreatine system, a rate-limiting factor in the replenishment of ATP, the immediate energy source used in muscle contraction. This ensures quicker recovery, more efficient rehabilitation, and improved long-term functional status of the patient. Despite the promising results, there are some areas of weakness in the current literature. Although short-term creatine effects have been well documented, further research is needed to establish dosage recommendations for particular patient groups and to investigate long-term effects of supplementation. The safety profile, tolerability, and affordability of creatine make it an appealing choice for clinical use. As a complement to typical rehabilitation regimens, such as physical therapy and resistance training, the combination of creatine supplementation has the potential to maximize outcomes of recovery. Its wide range of use among different patient populations, including neurological disorders or chronic disease, serves to highlight its utility as an adjunctive treatment component. However, to produce optimal outcomes, clinicians must adhere to standard dosing recommendations, seeking to minimize risk while ensuring patient health. Although the encouraging results, numerous limitations in the current research remain. Although the short-term effects of creatine are well established, more studies are needed to optimize dosage for various patient populations and to determine the long-term consequences of supplementation. Studies involving older adults and patients with chronic illnesses are especially relevant, as these populations might have varying responses to supplementation. Understanding the effects of creatine in these specific populations will enable dosing regimens to be tailored and its therapeutic effectiveness optimized in the context of medical rehabilitation. Creatine supplementation is a low-risk, low-cost, and safe strategy with significant potential to improve recovery and functional outcomes in the rehabilitative process. The potential to augment muscular strength and aid recovery has been demonstrated in several patient populations, like those with muscle weakness or atrophy, neurological impairment, and trauma. To fully maximize its therapeutic potential, even more investigative efforts will have to be aimed at demystifying current issues regarding long-term duration of administration, accurate dosage recommendations, and optimal applications within diverse clinical populations. As ongoing research unfolds, creatine supplementation can become a standard part of personalized rehabilitation programs, enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.

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  Efficacy of Multi-Ingredient Pre-Workout Supplementation: Insights into Strength, Power, and Exercise Performance in Resistance-Trained Individual

  Mackensey Carter

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Popularity of Multi-Ingredient Pre-workout Supplementation (MIPS) is rapidly increasing across the world, initiating the need to understand their effects on consumers. The role of MIPS is investigated to see if they are considered an ergogenic aid when used during a workout. With supplement usage being on the rise with over 50% of adults taking daily supplements, research on these supplements is the only way to ensure safety and accuracy. This article assesses the outcomes of previous studies on MIPS and identifies the study’s potential bias while also evaluating the results on exercise performance in healthy individuals. These articles had to include a randomized controlled trial with participants who were healthy, and 18 years or older. The trial also had to include a placebo group. To filter out the studies, authors used what is called the GRADE approach to rate the articles by quality of evidence. Articles were rated from HIGH quality which showed confidence in the article to VERY LOW quality which meant the authors had zero confidence in the article. After reviewing 22 articles, the authors saw that some studies showed MIPS increased the number of repetitions in upper body strength and lower body strength compared to placebo. There was a positive correlation between MIPS and participants compared to participants that consumed placebo in areas such as greater mean power output in anerobic capacity, greater peak power in anerobic capacity, higher repetition in upper body strength, and higher repetition in lower body strength. It is addressed that users of MIPS need to be cautious due to the limited amount of research of the long-lasting effects that are unknown such as high blood pressure, kidney damage, or increased anxiety. Although some studies showed mild side effects such as tingly hands, safety concerns are raised due to the lack of data for long term effects. The results of the studies were considered low quality due to issues with small sample size and studies with larger sample size will have to be conducted for more accurate results. Side effects from pre-workout are also inconclusive because of lack of reporting after a study is conducted. Researchers going forward need to identify the probability of side effects, the proper dosage for MIPS, and conduct studies with higher sample size to get a better look at outcomes. Conducting research with biomarkers such as blood pressure, pulse, and creatinine levels could give a more significant look at what factors of the body MIPS are affecting. Future studies with larger sample sizes and advanced biomarkers are essential better to understand the long-term safety and effectiveness of MIPS, ensuring evidence-based recommendations for users.

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  Comparing Long-Term Outcomes in Fresh vs. Frozen Meniscal Allograft Transplants: A Critically Appraised Topic

  Meagan Chastain

  Context
  Meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) is an essential procedure for young, active patients with symptomatic meniscal deficiencies who have failed conservative treatments. Clinical decisions regarding the use of fresh versus frozen grafts are critical due to differences in availability, cost, and outcomes. This critical appraised topic will address the clinical question: In young, active patients requiring MAT (P), does the use of fresh allografts (I) compared to frozen allografts (C) improve long-term outcomes in pain reduction, knee function, and return to sport (O)?

  Methods
  A computerized search was completed in October 2024. The search terms used were "meniscal fresh allograft transplant," "knee function following meniscal transplant," "knee biomechanics AND meniscus transplant," and "knee anatomy AND meniscus tears." Electronic databases used were PubMed and the JSU Library databases. Inclusion criteria: articles written in the English language and studies published between 2013 and 2024. Exclusion criteria: case studies, geriatric and sedentary populations, and short-term outcomes with MAT. Validity of the studies were determined using the Strengthening of the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) scale. One author independently reviewed the studies, scored each paper, and reviewed the completed appraisals to come to a consensus on the study quality.

  Results
  The literature search retrieved 114 total articles, and five main articles were used based on the inclusion criteria. Both fresh and frozen allografts improved knee function and delayed degenerative changes. In regard to using fresh grafts, results demonstrated better long-term outcomes in pain reduction, functional improvements, and the prevention of additional surgeries. Additionally, fresh grafts yielded an average return-to-sports rate of 67-69% within 9.2 months. In contrast, frozen grafts provided practical advantages with longer shelf life and broader accessibility. Survivorship ranged from 10 to 16 years for both graft types, with failure rates of 10-29%. However, logistical challenges, including limited availability of fresh grafts, make frozen grafts more feasible for many patients.

  Conclusions
  Fresh grafts remain the gold standard for MAT, offering superior clinical outcomes. However, frozen grafts are a viable alternative due to practicality and accessibility. For athletic trainers and healthcare professionals, understanding these differences is essential for guiding rehabilitation and managing patient expectations. Future research should focus on tailored rehabilitation protocols for each graft type and expanding studies on diverse athletic populations to optimize clinical outcomes.

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  Utilizing Diagnostic Ultrasound to Diagnose Stress Fractures in High School Athletes: A Critically Appraised Topic

  Jacob Cole

  Context: Stress fractures are a common issue in adolescent athletes, particularly those engaged in high-impact sports. Traditional diagnostic tools, such as X-rays, may fail to detect early-stage stress fractures, delaying treatment, and prolonging recovery. Diagnostic ultrasound (US) is a promising non-invasive, real-time imaging tool that offers portability, cost-effectiveness, and dynamic assessment capabilities, making it valuable in sports medicine settings. This critically appraised topic explores the efficacy of diagnostic US in identifying stress fractures in high school athletes and its implications for prognosis and return-to-play timelines.

  Methods: A computerized search was completed in October 2024. The search terms used were stress fracture, diagnosis, adolescent, diagnostic ultrasound, manage, athlete, ultrasonography, and bone injury. Electronic databases used were JSU GEM Finder and SPORTDiscus. Inclusion criteria: Studies from the past 10 years written in the English language, that directly examined diagnostic US's role in diagnosing stress fractures in adolescents. Exclusion criteria: adult population, therapeutic ultrasound, and fracture. Validity of the selected studies was determined using the PEDro and QUADAS checklists. One author independently reviewed the studies, scored each paper, and reviewed the completed appraisals to come to a consensus on the study quality.

  Results: The literature search retrieved 413 total articles and 408 were excluded based on the inclusion criteria, resulting in five studies. Diagnostic US demonstrated high sensitivity (80%-100%) for detecting stress fractures in the tibia and metatarsals, comparable to MRI in lower extremities. Specificity ranged from 53%-79%. Furthermore, diagnostic US was cost-effective and provided real-time imaging, facilitating quicker return-to-play decisions. However, its accuracy depended heavily on the operator's skill and was less effective for deep bone structures.

  Conclusions: Diagnostic US is a valuable tool for athletic trainers and healthcare providers in the early detection of stress fractures in adolescent athletes, especially in resource-limited or sideline settings. While it cannot replace MRI, it can serve as an initial diagnostic step, ruling out injuries and expediting care founded in managing costs and improved accuracy of diagnoses. A multifaceted diagnostic approach combining US and MRI can optimize outcomes, enabling a faster recovery and safer return to play.

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  History of Black Student Union

  Javion Curtis

  Please note: No video is available for this presentation.

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  Creatine Supplementation: A Promising Strategy for Enhancing Muscle, Bone, and Cognitive Health in Older Adults

  Carter Dingler

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Aging results in diminished physical strength, reduced bone density, and impaired cognitive function, substantially compromising the quality of life in older adults. Creatine supplementation, often paired with resistance training, is gaining interest as a possible solution to these issues due to its potential ability to enhance physical and cognitive functions. Research indicates that combining creatine supplementation with resistance training significantly increases muscle strength and hypertrophy. Studies, including meta-analyses, suggest that this combination leads to an approximate 1.4 kg increase in lean mass. Such improvements can enhance functional tasks like climbing stairs, standing up from a chair, and maintaining balance. These enhancements can improve physical performance and may reduce the likelihood of falls and related injuries, which are major concerns for older adults. Creatine supplementation has accelerated recovery after exercise, enabling older individuals to maintain consistent training routines with reduced fatigue and strain.

  New evidence also suggests that creatine may support cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and mental processing speed. Some studies show that creatine enhances energy metabolism in the brain, potentially counteracting age-related cognitive decline. However, these findings remain in the early stages, and further clinical trials are needed to determine the extent of these benefits and establish optimal dosing for cognitive enhancement.

  The effects of creatine on bone health remain less clear. While some research suggests potential benefits when creatine is combined with weight-bearing exercises, the evidence is inconsistent. Most studies focus on short-term outcomes, leaving questions about its long-term effects unanswered. The mechanisms in which creatine may influence bone density are not yet fully understood, complicating the understanding of existing findings. This research gap indicates the need for additional comprehensive investigations to explore the relationship between creatine supplementation and bone health. Current evidence supports creatine supplementation as a promising approach for improving physical and mental health in older adults, particularly when combined with resistance training. For older individuals aiming to maintain mobility, reduce the risk of falls, and support cognitive function, creatine supplementation presents an accessible and practical solution. Healthcare professionals and fitness experts should consider incorporating creatine into fitness programs for older adults while monitoring its effects and adjusting regimens based on individual needs and responses.

  With additional research to clarify its effects on bone health and determine appropriate dosing protocols, creatine supplementation may significantly contribute to healthy aging and improve the quality of life for older adults.

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  NCAA's Policies on Conference Realignment: An Examination of Colleges and Universities Athletic Programs Transitioning to a New Level

  KatieSue Dole

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  This article examines the impacts of the NCAA requirements on the balance of competitive football conferences. The authors use evidence from 1953 through 2003 on NCAA enforcement effects on the conference balances. The results say that the NCAA enforcement net effect is an improvement in the balance

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  Closing the Digital Accessibility Gap: Overcoming Barriers for Elderly and Disabled Communities

  Corey Dunn

  Please note: no video is available for this presentation.

  Digital exclusion remains a pressing issue for elderly and disabled individuals, limiting their ability to access vital online services. While much of the existing research has centered on social isolation and digital literacy challenges, the wider socioeconomic consequences of digital inaccessibility have received less attention. This study explores the financial, healthcare, and employment hardships that arise from restricted access to digital technologies among these vulnerable populations. By analyzing findings from existing literature, this paper underscores the critical need for targeted solutions to reduce the digital divide and promote inclusive participation in the evolving digital landscape.

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  An Illusion of Choice: An Analysis of Geoffrey Chaucer's Gender Politic

  Katelyn Dunn

  Please note: no video is available for this video.

  Male anxieties are the culmination of reactions that men project upon women when the patriarchy is subverted by female means. In The Canterbury Tales, Geoffrey Chaucer illustrates how patriarchal rule determines the interactions between both men and women by developing complex figures who submit or rebel to the overwhelming societal expectations that dictate the performance of gender. Whereas characters such as Emilye of “The Knight’s Tale” are rewarded for their virtuousness and willingness to obey the demands of masculine society, characters such as the Wife of Bath in “The Wife of Bath’s Tale” are villainized for subverting patriarchal values and deciding their own principles. Despite the lines drawn by Chaucer’s definition of masculinity and femininity in The Canterbury Tales, the introduction of Criseyde in Chaucer’s Troilus and Criseyde creates a complex figure that exists between the favored and feared wife. While submitting to the feelings of “pity” she develops for Troilus’s lovesickness, Criseyde decides at the end of the poem to rebel from the wills of the patriarchal structures that govern her; instead, she paves a way for her own freedom by making a choice that villainizes her in the eyes of Pandarus, Troilus and the traditional male audience. In this presentation, I will analyze Criseyde’s complex identity through the different lenses of the favored and feared wife, exemplifying Chaucer’s demonstration of how the body is governed by existing and prevailing gender politics.

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  The Effects of Combined Creatine and Caffeine Supplementation: Optimizing Exercise Performance

  Luis Elizarraras

  Caffeine and creatine are the most commonly used supplements to enhance exercise performance. Creatine primarily supports anaerobic energy systems in the body for activities involving muscle force, power, muscular endurance, and sprints. The intake of creatine increases the availability of creatine and phosphocreatine, enhancing the energy supply for the phosphagen system. This uptake promotes quicker recovery, improved performance on repetitive tasks, and increased total work during a session. Inversely, caffeine has been shown to have ergogenic effects on both anaerobic and aerobic activities. Due to its chemical structure, caffeine can easily reach the brain, allowing it to impact the central nervous system (CNS). Once absorbed, it begins blocking adenosine, which promotes tiredness and relaxation. Moreover, caffeine increases spinal and motor cortex excitability and promotes the release of endorphins and dopamine. This enhances motor function, improves mood and motivation, and reduces the sensation of pain. Although both supplements have well-documented individual benefits, their combined effects remain underexplored, despite their widespread use by athletes. Therefore, understanding the interactions between these supplements may help improve performance-enhancing strategies. Current literature shows evidence relevant to the ergogenic effects of caffeine intake during or after a creatine-loading phase. Findings indicate that taking 5–6 mg/kg of caffeine an hour before exercising, after a 5–6-day creatine loading phase (0.3 g/kg/day), improved performance in tasks including strength, endurance, and sprints. However, conflicting evidence has been published, specifically research that evaluated long-term supplementation or habitual caffeine use during a creatine loading period. Results indicated no improvements in muscle strength or speed. Some protocols show performance benefits, while others show no improvements or even a decreased muscle performance when creatine and caffeine are taken simultaneously. One explanation could be that creatine and caffeine can hinder performance due to a calcium imbalance. This occurs because creatine promotes calcium clearance for muscle relaxation, while caffeine stimulates calcium release for muscle contraction, potentially overwhelming these systems. Despite conflicting results, the evidence suggests that the timing of caffeine intake is essential for exercise improvements. Athletes can maximize their exercise performance by taking caffeine one hour before exercising, following a creatine loading phase. Furthermore, understanding the relationship between caffeine and creatine can help inform sports dietitians and coaches, improving their approach to athletes using these supplements. Future research can improve by standardizing protocols to minimize variables and enhance the understanding of their effects. Additionally, investigating the physiological processes underlying the combined ergogenic effects of creatine and caffeine is crucial. Finally, including various of demographics, such as women, senior citizens, and players from different sports, can broaden the application of the results.

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  Silvanus in Ex Viso Inscriptions

  Cayleigh Fitzsimmons

  This study explores ninety-five Latin inscriptions from Italy which include the phrases ex viso or ex visu, typically referring to visions or dreams of a religious variety. This type of votive inscription, primarily dating from the first and second centuries CE, were often written on marble altars or accompanied by carved depictions of the subject. Within the corpus, Silvanus and Jupiter are most frequently invoked, with Silvanus depicted in eighteen instances, twice that of Jupiter. The demographics of the dedicators showcase a diverse group including women, enslaved and freedpeople, Greeks, and individuals of Eastern origin, with no straightforward pattern of deity preference linked to these identities. While Silvanus’s prominence remains largely unexplained, his association with visions may indicate a particular availability or visual emphasis of his character. This collection of inscriptions also provides insight into the broader religious practices and material culture associated with Roman epiphanic experiences.