GRAD Abstracts

Abstract Title: ASSESSING THE ROLE OF NESPRIN2G-DEPENDENT MECHANOTRANSDUCTION IN MUSCLE INJURY REGENERATION

Program: Biomedical Sciences

Muscle stem cells are primarily responsible for muscle regeneration. These cells rely on their microenvironment for signals, including changes in mechanical stimuli like muscle stretching, which impact their cellular state and function. The nucleus, through the nuclear membrane complex, translates these external forces into genetic modifications. Mutations of proteins within this complex, like Nesprins, are linked to muscular dystrophies. So, using a C-terminal truncated Nesprin-2 Giant (SYNE2cpfl8-/-) mutant, we study how the disruption of continuous propagation of mechanical stimuli to the nucleus affects muscle stem cells. We observed that this led to a shift in the cellular state towards a more activated increased state and an altered heterochromatin state. In this study, I am investigating how these changes affect stem cell function by inducing muscle injury and assessing its regenerative potential. This study hopes to investigate the interplay between mechanotransduction and stem cell function in associated disorders and aging. 

Abstract Title: Beyond Traditional Metrics: Toward Inclusive and Equitable Definitions of Student Engagement in Higher Education

Program: Education, Health, & Behavior Studies

Student engagement is a cornerstone of higher education, yet its definitions and measures often fail to account for the diverse experiences of minoritized and international students. Using a critical race theory (CRT) lens, this systematic review of 157 research articles from ERIC explores how engagement is defined, measured, and conceptualized in higher education. Findings reveal that most articles lack explicit definitions of engagement, relying instead on narrow metrics like GPA or exam scores. When students define engagement, they emphasize holistic dimensions such as belonging and personal relevance, highlighting the need for inclusive frameworks. The review also identifies a methodological shift toward qualitative and real-time data collection, offering richer insights into engagement's dynamic nature. We recommend amplifying student voices, adopting intersectional approaches, and developing inclusive metrics to address systemic inequities. This work calls for institutional change to co-create engagement frameworks that prioritize diversity and inclusion, ensuring equitable outcomes for all students.

Abstract Title: PHOTOCHEMICAL SYNTHESIS OF NOVEL CYCLOBUTANE-1,5-DIACID BUILDING BLOCKS FROM RENEWABLE FEEDSTOCKS

Program: Chemistry

Abstract

Diacids are vital in synthesizing polyesters, polyamides, resins, pharmaceuticals, and biodegradable plastics. Their sustainable synthesis from renewable feedstocks under mild reaction conditions enhances material sustainability while reducing dependence on petroleum-based sources. (Z)-3-Methylpent-2-enedioic acid was synthesized from a commercially available 2-pyrone, a versatile renewable feedstock, through photoreaction in both solid-state and solution. The reaction was carried out under UV irradiation. The solution-phase reaction proved time-efficient. Structural analysis using NMR, FT-IR, and SC-XRD confirmed successful synthesis. The two 1,5-carboxylic acid groups enable easy linkage with other molecules for new material formation and synthesis, while the double bond offers additional functionalization potential. This study lays the foundation for novel pharmaceuticals and monomeric materials, supporting greener, more cost-effective polymer production while minimizing environmental impact.

Abstract Title: Toward Continuous Carbon Fibers From Corn Oil

Program: Chemical Engineering

Continuous carbon fibers (CCFs) are in high demand for aerospace and automotive applications, but their production from polyacrylonitrile (PAN) or petroleum/coal-tar mesophase pitch is very expensive. This research explores using corn oil as an alternative feedstock for mesophase pitch CCF production. Corn oil lacks the metal and mineral contaminants found in petroleum and coal tar, potentially simplifying and reducing the cost of CCF processing. Food-grade and ethanol plant by-product corn oil is processed in a cracking reactor to generate tars alongside transportation fuels. A novel reactor system at UND converts these tars into mesophase pitch. The project aims to identify optimal pitching conditions for mesophase pitch production. Characterization of the mesophase pitch will be performed in UND’s materials testing laboratory to assess glass transition temperature, softening point, thermal behavior, and molecular weight distribution, indicating suitability for mesophase CCF production.

Abstract Title: Exploring Teachers' Lived Experience with Culturally Relevant Engineering Design (CRED): An Instrumental Multiple Case Study (Work-in-PROGRESS)

Program: Chemical Engineering

The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) emphasize connecting engineering to local contexts to enhance STEM learning for historically marginalized groups. However, low teacher self-efficacy in engineering instruction often undermines instructional quality and equitable student outcomes. This study examines the impact of a two-year professional development (PD) program on 15 elementary and middle school teachers, designed to improve their engineering teaching self-efficacy and culturally relevant teaching self-efficacy through the Culturally Relevant Engineering Design (CRED) Framework. The PD emphasized empowering teachers to implement community-centered engineering tasks that deepen science and engineering understanding. Using an instrumental case study approach, we explored three teachers’ lived experiences, focusing on their learning trajectories, instructional transformations, and the challenges they faced in integrating CRED-aligned tasks. Findings highlight key factors beyond self-efficacy that hinder implementation and strategies teachers employed to overcome them. These insights inform effective PD practices to enhance culturally relevant engineering instruction in diverse K-12 classrooms.

Abstract Title: Prevention of tick-borne pathogens using lotilaner, an isoxazoline drug

Program: Biology

Black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis) are primary vectors of diseases like Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis in North America. Transmission of these diseases depends on ticks staying attached for more than 24 hours. Lotilaner, an Isoxazoline drug, kills ticks very quickly after attachment and thus blocks transmission. But its time frame for losing effectiveness is unknown. This study evaluates Lotilaner’s waning transmission-blocking ability by treating mice with the drug and exposing them at different intervals post-treatment to nymphal ticks infected with Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Babesia microti. The mice’s infection status will be assessed using PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and culture methods. This study will define the time frame for gradual reduction in transmission-blocking efficacy as tick-killing activity diminishes. These findings will help optimize Lotilaner re-administration schedules to maintain effective pathogen transmission prevention during peak tick seasons, providing valuable insights for managing tick-borne disease risks in humans and animals.

Abstract Title: Elucidating the Oxidation Mechanisms in Cr2AlB2 Using DFT and Thermodynamic Modeling

Program: Physics

We thoroughly investigated the oxidation behavior of Cr2AlB2 surfaces using a combination of density functional theory (DFT) and thermodynamic modeling. Our analysis encompassed surface stability assessments, oxygen adsorption studies on various surfaces, thermodynamic insights into oxidation mechanisms, defect formation energetics as a function of distance to the surface layer and Al diffusion toward the surface layer. Elevated temperatures reduce the favorability of oxidation, aligning with thermodynamics, and this trend holds consistently across different Cr2AlB2 surfaces. Low coverage surfaces favor oxidation and increasing pressure enhances oxidation. We also investigated vacancy formation energies and migration barriers, emphasizing the pivotal role of Al vacancy diffusion in initiating oxide formation. Analysis of vacancy formation energies unveiled surface-dependent variations due to distinct atomic arrangements, with defects forming more readily on the surfaces. Our study provides valuable computational insights into corrosion processes in Cr2AlB2 and establishes a robust framework for understanding oxidation mechanisms in Al containing materials.

Abstract Title: Hazard Impact Assessment of Brine Spill on groundwater pollution in western North Dakota

Program: Geography

The expansion of oil and gas production in North Dakota’s Bakken Formation has driven economic growth but also increased environmental risks, particularly from brine spills. Brine, a byproduct of oil extraction, contains high concentrations of salts and contaminants that can infiltrate groundwater, threatening local water supplies. This study assesses groundwater vulnerability using a GIS-based DRASTIC model, incorporating key environmental parameters such as depth to water, recharge rates, aquifer and soil media, topography, vadose zone impact, hydraulic conductivity, and distance to surface water. The study incorporates fuzzy methods, and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to refine parameter weightings, while Optimized Hotspot Analysis identifies high-risk contamination zones. The study produces vulnerability maps categorizing areas into low, moderate, and high risk. These findings will help policymakers and environmental managers implement targeted mitigation strategies to protect groundwater resources and promote sustainable water management in North Dakota’s oil-producing regions.

Abstract Title: 1-D ML Tool: Democratizing and Decentralizing Machine Learning

Program: Computer Science

Machine Learning (ML) is revolutionizing industries, from healthcare to finance, by offering powerful insights and automating decisions.  However, ML applications often remain confined to data scientists, excluding domain experts who lack technical skills in statistics, programming, and data visualization.  This paper introduces the 1-D ML Tool, designed to democratize ML access. By empowering domain experts to utilize ML without extensive technical knowledge, this tool aims to drive innovation and enhance performance across sectors.  We categorize ML tool users as either domain experts or data scientists/engineers, emphasizing the need for solutions bridging this gap.  Our findings highlight the importance of broadening ML accessibility to unlock its full potential and empower a wider audience.

Abstract Title: Literacy, Funding, Human Capital Development, Enrolment and Tertiary Education Outcome in Africa: Do Teacher Policies Play a Role?

Program: Higher Education

This study investigates the determinants of tertiary graduation rates in 53 African countries, focusing on the roles of adult literacy, government spending, tertiary enrollment, funding per student, human capital development, and the moderating effects of teacher policies. Using a Random Effects model, the findings reveal that adult literacy, government spending, tertiary enrollment, and human capital significantly improve graduation rates. Teacher policies amplify these effects by enhancing instructional quality and resource utilization. These findings underscore the importance of strategic investment in education, equitable resource allocation, and teacher-focused policies. 

Abstract Title: Long-Term Impact of Electric Vehicles and Solar Photovoltaics on The Hosting Capacity of Residential Electric Power Distribution Grids

Program: Electrical Engineering

Solar photovoltaics (PVs) and electric vehicles (EVs) are critical in reducing global carbon emissions and promoting green energy. Both technologies have experienced rapid growth in major U.S. cities in recent years. Since most EV owners charge their vehicles at home and rooftop solar panels are primarily installed to meet household energy demand, their rapid adoption has significantly impacted the residential power distribution grid operations. This study investigates the socio-economic, geographic, and perception-based factors influencing EV and PV adoption and their effects on residential EV charging patterns and PV power generation. The study further develops a distribution system hosting capacity model by incorporating EV and PV adoption outcomes, analyzing their impacts on residential load patterns, and applying a stochastic hosting capacity method to evaluate the aggregated societal impact on residential distribution grids.

Abstract Title: Honing Law Students’ Legal Drafting Competency with an AI Personal Trainer: Does it Work?

Program: Instructional Design & Technology

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping legal education, particularly legal drafting (Court Pleadings, petitions, Contracts, and so on), by offering automated research support, instant feedback, and personalized learning experiences. While most law schools in developed nations are integrating AI tools into their curricula, Bangladesh still heavily relies on conventional teaching and learning methods. This research will investigate the effectiveness of AI as a personal trainer in enhancing law students’ drafting skills. Using an experimental design, this study will compare the results of legal drafting assignments from 80 students, with one group receiving traditional training and the other receiving AI-assisted training. The study will also explore students’ perceptions of AI-assisted learning experiences. The outcomes will provide valuable insights into AI’s impact on legal drafting skills and contribute to policy discussions on modernizing legal education curricula in Bangladesh.

Abstract Title: Optimization of a pulse charging algorithm for fast charging of lithium-ion batteries at subzero temperatures

Program: Energy Engineering

At freezing temperatures, fast charging of a lithium-ion battery is extremely difficult due to insufficient ion transport through the electrolyte. In this research, a multi-stage charging protocol is proposed and subsequently optimized using numerical simulation to improve the charging performance while fast charging at freezing temperature (-15 0C). In the first stage of charging, a pulse charge followed by a pulse discharge steps are applied to preheat the battery. In the second stage, a constant current (CC) charging process is integrated; and finally, a constant voltage (CV) charging is applied to the battery. A pulse charging protocol periodically changes the charging current direction which facilitates to increase the battery temperature and subsequently expedites ion transport in the electrolyte. This study demonstrates multi-stage charging method is a viable approach to attain fast charging of a lithium-ion battery in subzero temperatures. 

Abstract Title: Efficient Removal of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Using Direct Contact Membrane Distillation

Program: Environmental Engineering

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent pollutants, posing significant water treatment challenges. This study explores Direct Contact Membrane Distillation (DCMD) for PFAS removal and water recovery, focusing on hydrophobic membranes (PTFE, PVDF), pore size (0.1, 0.45, 1 µm), salinity (100, 1000, 5000 mg/L), and operational conditions (pH, temperature gradient). Results indicate PTFE membranes demonstrated superior performance with 100% PFOA rejection, surpassing PVDF’s 51%. Efficiency was increased with decreasing pore size in PTFE membranes, achieving 55% (1 µm), 88% (0.45 µm), and 100% (0.1 µm), respectively.  Additionally, rejection decreased with increasing salinity; 100% at 100 mg/L, 83% at 1000 mg/L, and 62% at 5000 mg/L. A 100% removal rate with a constant, linear water flux and greater stability was attained under ideal pH 4 and 40°C temperature gradient conditions. These findings establish DCMD as a promising, energy-efficient approach for sustainable PFAS removal and water recovery.

Abstract Title: Comparative analysis of streamflow prediction using HEC-HMS and LSTM in the Hillsboro watershed, North Dakota

Program: Civil Engineering

Streamflow predictions are important in effective hydrological management. Physically based models such as Hydrologic Engineering Center-Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS) have been used in the past, but machine learning models such as Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) have also performed well. This study compares the reliability performances of HEC-HMS and LSTM models to predict streamflow in a Goose River catchment. Meteorological and discharge data were used to conduct this study. Calibration of the HMS model was done using the Digital Elevation model (DEM), soil data, land cover and impervious surface data. The soil moisture accounting loss method and Muskingum routing were used to define watershed water movement. The LSTM model was pre-processed using hyperparameter tuning, the train-test split ratio was 80:20, epoch=100. The performance of both models was evaluated using NSE and RMSE matrices. The result shows better performance with the LSTM model with an NSE of 0.79, RMSE = 49.96.

Abstract Title: Resiliency Enhancement of Renewable Energy Integrated Power Grid Using AI-Based Solutions

Program: Electrical Engineering

The increasing penetration of variable and intermittent renewable energy sources (RES) into the electric power network presents significant challenges for grid resiliency and reliability. Conventional grid systems must adapt to these changes, necessitating innovative solutions to ensure reliability and efficiency. Proactive grid management approaches incorporate advanced forecasting techniques to predict energy generation and consumption patterns accurately. Additionally, implementing demand response (DR) programs can help balance the supply and demand, while integrating energy storage systems provides a buffer against fluctuations in renewable generation. The deployment of microgrids offers localized energy solutions and also enhances grid resilience during severe disruptions. Using artificial intelligence (AI)-based methods to implement these strategies can optimize grid operations, improve predictive maintenance, and facilitate real-time monitoring. Collectively, these approaches underscore the importance of leveraging AI and smart technologies to develop a robust and resilient energy infrastructure capable of adapting to the dynamics of the modern power grid. 

Abstract Title: Enhancing PFAS Degradation: The Role of Defoamers in Electrochemical Advanced Oxidation Processes

Program: Environmental Engineering

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent fluorinated organic contaminants that pose health risks to humans and ecosystems. The strong C-F bonds contribute to their hydrophobicity, leading to a high affinity for the air-water interface. Therefore, PFAS partitions from the liquid phase into foam, adhering to rising air bubbles and accumulating on the liquid surface at concentrations of 3–6 mg/L. In wastewater treatment processes, defoamers have been used to collapse foam in aeration basins, thereby preventing debris buildup, reducing maintenance needs, and ensuring efficient system performance. The Electrochemical Advanced Oxidation Process (EAOP) has emerged as a promising approach for the degradation of PFAS due to its simplicity, low chemical demand, and minimal waste production. This study explores a new approach that integrates defoamers with EAOP to facilitate the complete degradation of PFAS-laden foam. The main objective is to determine how defoamers influence EAOP’s efficiency in degrading PFAS in water. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: "This Precious Stone is Jesus": Agates and the Material Culture of Anchoritism in Ancrene Wisse

Program: English

Ancrene Wisse, or the “Guide for Anchoresses,” is a thirteenth-century religious text that outlines monastic rule for its namesake. Taking a vow of chastity, obedience, and stability of abode, anchoresses opted to live out the remainder of their days as recluses in solitary enclosures, often crafted of stone.  Despite the thirty-one references to stones in Ancrene Wisse, only two stones are named in this manuscript: flint and agate. Of particular interest, the agate is marked as a metaphor for Jesus Christ (“This precious stone is Jesus Christ”). My research, then, considers how agates are connected to the anchoritic vocation—and, in particular, how the agate became a material object that signified enclosure of, and for, the anchorite, as accounted for in Ancrene Wisse. Ultimately, these examinations ask us to reconsider broader lapidary discourses in both the anchoritic vocation and medieval culture. 

Abstract Title: Exploring the Stories of Growing up Rural and LGBTQ+: A Narrative Analysis of Challenges, Strengths, and Identity 

Program: Counseling Psychology

The rural LGBTQ community remains understudied relative to their urban counterparts despite the significant health disparities that exist. The purpose of this poster is to review the empirical literature on the experiences of rural LGBTQ youth, to amplify the unique, multifaceted stores of LGBTQ rural youth through narrative analysis, and to inspire further attention to address the needs of this population that includes strengths and resiliencies. While the literature addresses the unique disparities this population faces, there is a consistent theme that focuses on a deficit-based model that risks pathologizing this population. In contrast, there is limited, but existing, research that supports positive community experiences for this population. The research proposed in this poster, a qualitative narrative analysis, will explore the needs and experiences of rural gender and sexual minority youth while amplifying their unique strengths, resiliencies, protective factors, values, joy, and positive experiences living in a rural community.  

Abstract Title: Raising eco-conscious children ​during the climate crisis: ​An autoethnographic exploration of the practical application of environmental education principles ​

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

This project is an autoethnographic exploration of my experiences integrating environmental education into parenting practices my partner and I employed while raising our two young sons. It reflects on the first ten years of parenthood, interwoven with insights from my childhood and the ways those formative experiences have shaped my approach to raising eco-conscious children. ​While grounded in personal narrative, this study examines broader cultural and subcultural norms surrounding motherhood in the American Midwest. It considers the influence of cultural expectations, values, built environments, and social interactions on our family’s journey. ​Drawing on autoethnographic methodologies and theories of child development and environmental education, this study offers a cultural analysis through an intimate lens. By providing a firsthand account of parenting during an era of climate crisis, it contributes to a deeper understanding of the intersections between family life, education, and sustainability in contemporary American society. ​

Abstract Title: Life Cycle Assessment of Biogas Utilization in Refuse Power Plants

Program: Energy Engineering

Combining fossil and renewable resources in power plants offers the potential to achieve negative CO2 emissions. However, limited availability and processing demands of renewables, necessitates integrating non-renewable resources to facilitate this transition. One promising solution lies in co-firing waste coal with biogas while utilizing carbon capture and storage. This approach provides a remediation pathway for reducing waste coal quantities and providing greenhouse gas mitigation strategies. Waste coal power plant models were based off conditions in West Virginia and Kentucky. Life cycle assessment was used to investigate the environmental impacts of co-firing waste coal with biogas from various sources including landfills as well as anaerobic digesters fed by animal manure, municipal solid waste, and wastewater sludge. The findings indicate that negative emissions up to -289 kgCO2eq/MWh can be achieved when co-firing mixtures of biogas from various operational systems with waste coal and capturing 95% of the CO2.

Abstract Title: Additive Construction, 3D Printed Culverts

Program: Civil Engineering

Culverts are essential for managing stormwater, preventing flooding, and ensuring aquatic habitat connectivity by allowing water to pass beneath roadways while maintaining ecological balance. Modern designs enhance hydraulic performance, reducing erosion and sedimentation risks, and mitigating climate change impacts by improving urban drainage systems. The demand for sustainable infrastructure solutions has highlighted the need for 3D-printed concrete culverts. This additive Construction technology enables rapid construction, reduces labor costs and material waste, and allows for complex designs that meet specific environmental and structural requirements. The methodology involves designing standard culvert models using advanced software and robotic arms, ensuring precise construction and consistent quality. This approach allows for the replacement of deteriorated culverts with high precision and efficiency. By adopting 3D-printed culverts, we achieve a balance between human activity and nature, ensuring resilient and sustainable infrastructure that meets future challenges while demonstrating a commitment to environmental protection.

Abstract Title: Waste Heat Recovery in Nuclear Power Plants: A Case Study of Bushehr Nu-clear Power Plant for Improved Efficiency.

Program: Energy Engineering

Nuclear power plants generate clean energy but release a significant portion of waste heat into the environment, leading to energy losses and ecological concerns. This study explores the potential of Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) technology to recover waste heat at the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant in Iran. The ORC system, optimized for low-temperature operation, was tailored to the plant’s specifications. A comprehensive thermal analysis identified key waste heat sources, and MATLAB-based simulations evaluated system performance under various conditions. Results demonstrated a 0.077% increase in electrical output, converting waste heat into electricity without additional fuel consumption or operational costs. Environmental assessments indicated a 15–20% reduction in thermal discharge to the Persian Gulf, mitigating ecological harm. Economic analysis confirmed feasibility, with a 9.16-year payback period. This study highlights the scalability of ORC technology for nuclear applications, emphasizing plant-specific customization to enhance sustainability and support global clean energy efforts.

Abstract Title: Poly(silyl ether)-based Polymeric Nanoparticles as Potential Nanocarriers for Drug Delivery 

Program: Chemistry

Design and utilization of polymeric nanoparticles for use in the selective targeting of cells as well as controlled release of a drug is a major point of interest for many researchers in the field of cancer therapeutics. Poly(silyl ether) (PSE) based nanoparticles show promising use in this goal due to their ability to undergo the hydrolytic degradation of the Si-O-C bond present in the polymer chain triggered by the increase of acidity similar to those seen in cancerous cells. In this study, we have prepared and characterized a series of PSEs from polyethylene glycol (PEG) diols that are readily fabricated into nanoparticles. We have demonstrated their ability to encapsulate and release a drug in an acidic environment similar to that of cancerous cells. 

Abstract Title: Leveraging AI to Enhance Systems Thinking and Modelling Skills in Business Education

Program: Instructional Design & Technology

This study examines how AI-assisted inquiry impacts students' ability to develop systems thinking and construct causal loop diagrams in business education. Comparing AI-supported and traditional inquiry-based learning, the research explores cognitive load, model complexity, and engagement levels. A total of 226 undergraduate business students from Evangelical Presbyterian University College, Ghana, participated in the study, divided into an AI-assisted inquiry group and a traditional inquiry group. Both groups received identical instructional sessions on causal modeling to establish a common baseline before engaging in inquiry-based tasks. Findings indicate that AI-assisted learning enhances reasoning accuracy, reduces cognitive strain, and fosters deeper conceptual understanding. The study provides insights into the integration of AI as a cognitive coaching tool in higher education.

Abstract Title: Social Support and Faculty Motivation for Teaching and Research

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

Work life balance is a common issue among university faculty, especially women and parents. However, there is some evidence that social support may act as a mitigator. The current study investigated if there were gender and family differences in professional balance, relatedness, social support, and if any differences relate to faculty self-determined motivation for teaching and research. In early 2023, 210 university faculty were recruited via social media to complete an electronic questionnaire. Group difference tests revealed that men reported more autonomous motivation and professional balance than women, and married faculty reported more professional balance and social support than unmarried faculty. When controlling for gender and family characteristics, stepwise multiple regression identified social support was a predictor of perceived success in both teaching and research domains. Following regression analysis, mediation analysis with bootstrapping was conducted. Findings suggest further examination of the indirect effect between social support and perceived success.

Abstract Title: Timber Subsurface Moisture Detection with Hyperspectral Imaging 

Program: Civil Engineering

Timber is a widely used construction material due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and environmental benefits, including a 40% reduction in carbon footprint compared to conventional materials. Timber forms 92% of new U.S. residential construction and over 95% of railroad ties; however, its moisture sensitivity affects service life, leading to decay, fungal growth, and insect attack. Several methods have been introduced for wood moisture measurement; however, non-contact subsurface moisture detection remains a challenge. This study explores the feasibility of Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI) in the near-infrared range as a non-contact sensing method for detecting subsurface moisture in timber. HSI sensitivity to light-water interactions in timber fiber cells enables the capture of surface spectral features linked to underlying moisture transport. A machine learning classification model, trained on HSI signal data, achieved 0.89% accuracy in identifying subsurface moisture. These findings suggest that HSI could be an effective tool for non-contact timber health monitoring.

Abstract Title: Laboratory Study of Bio-Polymer Gel Penetration/Extrusion Behavior during Severe Fracture Treatment for Deadwood Formation Geothermal Reservoir

Program: Geological Engineering

Geothermal energy offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, yet extraction from over-fractured reservoirs remains challenging. This study introduces an innovative approach using environmentally friendly, viscous bio-polymer gel formulations developed at the University of North Dakota to optimize heat transfer and enhance geothermal energy recovery. Core flooding experiments, combined with fluid flow behavior analysis, were conducted on artificially fractured Deadwood Formation core plugs under conditions mimicking field salinity and bottom-hole temperatures (BHT) of 160°C. Results revealed: (1) Blocking efficiency decreases slightly with increased salinity; (2) Gel formulations achieved about 60% sweep efficiency in severe fractures (~1.57mm) at 17% TDS; (3) Approximately 47% of heat was recovered under formation salinity and BHT; (4) High resistance factors (~500) suggest substantial blocking potential. This unique application of bio-polymer gels in ultra-low permeability, high-temperature reservoirs offers a pioneering conformance control method, advancing energy recovery and sustainability in challenging geological settings.

Abstract Title: Impact of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in The Recovery of Working Memory

Program: Psychology

This study investigates the impact of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on working memory enhancement by combining electrical stimulation with cognitive training. Sixty-eight healthy participants from the University of North Dakota are being recruited and randomly assigned to either active or sham tDCS groups. Participants will complete pre- and post-training cognitive assessments, including the Senaptec Sensory Station and computerized working memory tasks. Electroencephalography (EEG) will be used to analyze neural activity changes. The study aims to determine whether tDCS, paired with cognitive and sensory training modules, improves working memory performance. Findings may contribute to non-pharmacological interventions for cognitive enhancement, benefiting education, rehabilitation, and public health for both children and elderly population. By integrating brain stimulation with targeted cognitive training, this research seeks to provide new insights into working memory improvement and its broader implications for cognitive development and neuroplasticity.

Abstract Title: The relationship between community of origin and growth mindset 

Program: Counseling Psychology

We investigated the extent to which an athlete’s community of origin (i.e., rural, suburban, urban) contributes to their sense of growth mindset. Growth Mindset can be described as the understanding that knowledge and skill are fluid. Fixed Mindset can be explained as an individual’s rigid belief that they cannot grow past their inherent potential (Gray et al., 2022). Participants (N = 283) were recruited using Cloud Research’s survey recruitment service and through email. Participants anonymously completed an 88-item Qualtrics questionnaire. We measured growth mindset using the Implicit Self-Theory Scale (De Castella & Byrne, 2015). We found a significant difference in growth mindset (p = .017) between student-athletes who grew up in Rural communities (M= 19.19), Suburban communities (M= 19.08), Urban communities (M = 20.47). The findings suggest that an athlete’s growth mindset can depend on the type of community they grew up in. 

Abstract Title: Co-Teaching: The Future of Clinical Pedagogy for Teacher Education

Program: Teaching & Leadership

Meaningful clinical experiences that bridge pedagogical content knowledge gained from university classes and its practice in classrooms are the cornerstone of effective preservice teacher education programs. Recent research has shown that to integrate and apply what they have learned in the university setting, teacher candidates must have numerous and varied high quality clinical experiences (Feiman-Nemser, 2012; Jacobs & Burns, 2021; Loughran, 2006). One of the strategies to increase effectiveness for clinical experiences is that of co-teaching.  Co-teaching is not a new concept for educators, but its use as a strategy for teacher candidates and mentor teachers is gaining popularity.  This research identifies the benefits of co-teaching for all stakeholders including teacher candidates, PK-12 learners, and mentor teachers. In addition, it provides implications and recommendations for teacher education programs to consider as they strive to increase their teacher candidate field experiences. 

Abstract Title: Childhood Maltreatment And Mental Health in Early Adulthood: Exploring the Role of Emotion Regulation

Program: Counseling Psychology

The purpose of this project was to propose a study that aims to build a better understanding of how experiences of childhood maltreatment impact well-being and emotion regulation in early adulthood. The current study aimed to build on previous research by utilizing an emerging approach to measuring maltreatment (proposed by Mclaughlin and Sheridan 2014), which examines domains of maltreatment (e.g., threat and deprivation), rather than specific form of maltreatment (i.e., physical abuse), or cumulative risk (i.e., a total score of a childhood maltreatment). This this study also aimed to explore the differential pathways through which domains of childhood maltreatment impact well-being and emotion regulation. We will be testing the hypothesis that childhood experiences of threat and deprivation moderately predict the latent variable of wellbeing, and that this relationship would be mediated by emotion regulation. 

Abstract Title: Morphometrics of Wild Turkey in North Dakota

Program: Biology

Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo L.) were introduced to North Dakota in the 1950s and 1960s. In North Dakota, their population appears to be stable or increasing. This study aims to understand current wild turkey morphometrics across the state as part of an ongoing research project into the survival, movement, and reproduction of translocated turkeys in North Dakota. All wild turkeys were captured from 1 January to 31 March 2023 and 2024. Data collected at capture includes age, sex, weight, keel score, wing chord length, and snood length. Beard and spur length was recorded for all males and females that exhibited the trait. These measurements were compared against historical records from North Dakota and surrounding states. We conclude that Wild Turkeys in North Dakota are comparable in size to other modern collections. However, our results suggest that weight, snood length, and spur length differed significantly across capture counties within North Dakota. 

Abstract Title: Addressing Mental Health Needs: The Role of School-Based Health Services

Program: Counseling Psychology

Approximately one in five school-aged children have diagnosable mental health conditions, yet only a third of those in need receive support. The unmet mental health needs of children have serious academic, physical, and economic consequences. Trends show a rise in mental health challenges among youth, including increased rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Marginalized youth, including racial minorities and LGBTQ+ individuals, face heightened risks and often lack access to necessary care. Additionally, rural communities experience significant disparities in mental health services. Barriers such as cost, stigma, and systemic issues limit access to care, leading many youth to seek help in emergency departments, which are often ill-equipped. School-based mental health (SBMH) programs offer a solution by providing accessible, culturally responsive care within the school environment. These programs effectively address mental health issues, reduce symptoms, and promote positive outcomes for youth and families.

Abstract Title: Development of Graphene Quantum Dot Based Nanozyme (Fe-N4-GQDs) for Sensitive Detection of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate (NADPH)

Program: Chemistry

Nanozymes, nanomaterials mimicking the catalytic activity of enzymes, offer advantages like low cost, high activity, long-term stability, and ease of surface modification.  Graphene quantum dots (GQDs), due to their unique optical and electronic properties hold significant potential for sensing applications. Their small size and the chemistry of functional groups enhance their catalytic capabilities. NADPH, a high energy electron carrier involved in various metabolic processes, requires sensitive and accurate detection for understanding cellular function. In this study, Fe-N4-GQDs was synthesized using hydrophilic polyethyleneimine (PEI) precursor doped with hemin under hydrothermal conditions (200°C, 12 hours). Characterization using spectroscopic techniques (including UV-Vis, EDS, and XPS) revealed successful synthesis of nanomaterial with an average diameter of 7.1 ± 1.5 nm having excitation peak at 360 nm and an emission peak at 460 nm. Fluorescence quenching of the Fe-N4-GQDs upon NADPH interaction demonstrates their potential for NADPH detection. 

Abstract Title: A Qualitatively-Informed Approach to Examining the Construct Validity of Alcohol-Involved Sexual Violence

Program: Counseling Psychology

One in five women experience sexual victimization in her lifetime, making sexual victimization a significant public health crisis. Understanding the scope of sexual violence and the effects of prevention programming requires accuracy in measuring sexual violence. Specifically, alcohol-involved sexual violence questions are among the hardest to operationalize in such questionnaires, due, in part to cultural ideas about alcohol and idiosyncratic effects of alcohol on behavior. The current study addressed this gap by assessing the construct validity of alcohol-involved sexual violence questionnaire items. We used a cognitive-interviewing qualitative approach to analyze interviews with forty participants to better understand the cognitive and interpretive language nuances between “took advantage of while drunk” and being “too drunk to consent.” Qualitative thematic analysis was conducted to identify and summarize differences in how stimuli were perceived and interpreted. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Clonal Isolation of Borrelia miyamotoi Identifies Multiple Infection Phenotypes and Potential Novel Virulence Determinants

Program: Biomedical Sciences

Borrelia miyamotoi is an emerging tick-borne pathogen in the Northern hemisphere that causes Borrelia miyamotoi disease (BMD). Symptoms in healthy individuals are non-specific and flu-like, while immunocompromised patients can present with more severe neurological complications. Despite growing recognition as a human pathogen, the mechanisms underlying B. miyamotoi pathology and infection remain poorly understood. During routine culture with B. miyamotoi, our lab observed that high-passage cultures were unable to infect mice, providing an opportunity to investigate mechanisms of BMD pathogenesis. Clonal populations from high- and low-passage cultures were isolated and evaluated for both in vitro growth and in vivo infectivity. Three distinct phenotypes emerged—infectious, attenuated, and non-infectious—each demonstrating an inverse correlation between growth and infectivity. DNA sequencing of clones identified potential factors driving these phenotypes. These findings provide a foundation for uncovering molecular mechanisms driving B. miyamotoi pathogenesis and identifying targets to mitigate the impact of this emerging pathogen.

Abstract Title: Method Development for Simultaneous Identification and Quantification of Lignin Thermal Breakdown Products

Program: Chemistry

Lignin is the most abundant aromatic polymer on Earth. Its potential applications include renewable fuel sources, chemical feedstocks, medicinal nanocarriers, or other undiscovered properties. The valorization of lignin has been limited due to its complexity which is rooted in plant diversity but increases with individual extraction methods. A profitable method of converting lignin to value-added products has narrow margins for error. Thus, a technique capable of identifying and quantifying lignin conversion products would streamline the optimization of the lignin reactor. In this work, we evaluate a thermal desorption-pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry/methanizer flame ionization detector (TD-Py-GC-MS/mFID) capabilities for identifying thermal breakdown products of lignin via MS and quantifying with a dual chamber methanizer reactor FID. We have demonstrated the importance of sample introduction, pyrolysis temperatures, and instrument flow paths. With the removal of NaOH from lignin reactor products, promise is shown for method application as the mFID response is uniform. 

Abstract Title: Sports Satisfaction between Rural, Suburban, and Urban Communities 

Program: Counseling Psychology

The purpose of this study was to understand the presence of sport satisfaction among college athletes across geographic classifications of origin. A student-athlete’s experience of psychological well-being is purported to be influenced by their feelings of satisfaction towards their sport (Verner-Filion et al., 2017), such that their overall evaluation of their life includes an evaluation of their experience as an athlete. Participants (N = 283) were recruited using Cloud Research’s survey recruitment service and through email. Participants anonymously completed an 88-item Qualtrics questionnaire. We measured sport satisfaction using the Satisfaction a Scale (Caliskan & Baydar, 2016).  We also found a significant difference in sports satisfaction (p = .007) between student-athletes who grew up in Rural communities (M= 87.00), Suburban communities (M= 85.10), Urban communities (M = 91.79). The findings suggest that an athlete’s sports satisfaction can depend on the type of community they grew up in. 

Abstract Title: Steel Corrosion Detection Using Hyper Spectral Imaging (HSI) and Diffuse Spectroscopy: Bridging Visual and Spectral Analysis

Program: Civil Engineering

Steel is widely used in civil infrastructure, such as bridges, pipelines, railroads, etc. Structural steel, i.e. A36, consists of 97-98% iron (Fe), which is highly susceptible to environmental corrosion. Due to this reactive nature, inspections, which are typically initiated in response to visible signs of corrosion, the global cost of corrosion repair is significant, accounting for 3-4% of the GDP. In this study, the feasibility of diffuse spectroscopy, as a noncontact sensing method, is investigated to detect corrosion via spectral changes. Steel samples were exposed to household bleach for 6 hours, 16 hours, 24 hours, and 21 days. Each sample was scanned with Visual Near Infrared sensor and X-ray diffraction after each exposure period.  An algorithm was developed to localize the corrosion in terms of spectral changes by combining the spectral information with visual images. Subsequently, an SVM model was trained to predict the corrosion level from the reflectance values. 

Abstract Title: Learning to Teach Digital Literacy: Faculty as Learners

Program: Educational Practice & Leadership

Rapid developments in artificial intelligence and widening digital inequities have made digital literacy instruction crucial in higher education. This qualitative participatory case study explored how UND faculty learned to teach Digital Information Literacy through a librarian-led workshop following a state mandate. Using transformative learning theory, data was hermeneutically analyzed from field notes, interviews, a focus group, and document reviews collected from faculty, librarians, and administrators. Although interactive demonstrations and group discussions enhanced faculty learning, participants overcame knowledge gaps and time constraints when collaborating with academic librarians. Aligning Digital Information Literacy with general education information literacy goals positioned librarians as key partners in faculty learning. This study proposed a revised workshop model featuring scaffolded lesson plans as a springboard for an ongoing faculty learning community. It illustrates how faculty-librarian partnerships can enhance learning experiences, support general education goals, and meet state requirements, providing guidance for institutions implementing similar initiatives.

Abstract Title: Consent Teachings in Sex Education: A Qualitative Study

Program: Counseling

A comprehensive teaching of sexual consent is a crucial and necessary component for safely engaging in sexual activity, seeing as an absence of consent during sexual intimacy constitutes sexual violence (Beres, 2014). The current study aims to qualitatively explore sex educator’s beliefs about sexual consent and how it is included in their sex education curricula. Additionally, their perceptions of the sexual education curricula overall, and more specifically how their students are responding to information regarding sexual consent will be further explored. Our intent is to better understand the experiences and attitudes held by sex educators in rural Midwestern schools about teaching consent in sex education courses, and their perceptions of what role community attitudes have on the teaching of sexual consent. Preliminary findings will be presented. These findings have the potential to significantly improve current consent teachings, thus, functioning as sexual assault prevention. 

Abstract Title: Comprehensive Numerical Simulation of Underground Hydrogen Storage: Incorporating Cushion Gas and Geochemical Effects in the Horse Creek Field.

Program: Petroleum Engineering

The worldwide energy demand is rising rapidly, necessitating the pursuit of a clean and sustainable energy solution to fulfill this need. Hydrogen has been recognized as an essential energy carrier in this transformation. This study evaluated and simulated the impacts of cushion gas and geochemical interactions in the depleted hydrocarbon Horse Creek field within the Red River Formation of the Williston Basin for underground hydrogen storage (UHS). The mineral makeup of the rock consists of calcite (60.3%), dolomite (39%), and quartz (0.7%). The results indicate negligible geochemical alterations and a beneficial effect of the nitrogen cushion gas, as it enhances hydrogen recovery rates to 97% and assists in sustaining reservoir pressure. This investigation established that the Horse Creek field is optimal for UHS, as no effects of geochemical interactions were seen after hydrogen injection.

Abstract Title: Truck Platooning and Its Implications for Roadway Design, Safety, and Operations on Rural roadways: A Case Study in Montana

Program: Civil Engineering

Truck platooning enhances freight efficiency, reduces fuel costs by 4% to 10%, and improves road safety through vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication. However, successful implementation requires assessing infrastructure readiness and regulatory challenges. This study takes a comprehensive approach, starting with a nationwide review of legislation in all 50 states to identify regulatory challenges for truck platooning. Focusing on Montana, this study assesses the state’s highway infrastructure including bridge load capacity, and intelligent transportation system capabilities to determine its readiness to support testing and deploying truck platoons. Additionally, expert and public surveys will be conducted to understand perceptions, concerns, and policy considerations surrounding its adoption. Using descriptive statistics, comparative analysis, and advanced statistics, structural equation modeling, we aim to identify key challenges and opportunities for implementation, by quantifying the infrastructure readiness to accommodate truck platoons. The findings will provide data driven recommendations for Montana’s policymakers and transportation agencies to have efficient truck platooning deployment.

Abstract Title: Dietary allergen induces trafficking of CXCR5-expressing peripheral leukocytes to the central nervous system in subclinically sensitized individuals 

Program: Biomedical Sciences

Food allergen consumption has been influencing mood and behavior in individuals who are sensitized but tolerant to the food. We previously showed behavioral changes, cortical demyelination, neuroinflammation, and CD45+ cell infiltration in the brain of subclinical cow’s milk allergy mouse model. Hypothesizing that allergen consumption would trigger gut-brain communication through chemokine-mediated leukocyte trafficking, we performed flow cytometric immunoprofiling in the brain. We observed significant increases in CXCR5+CD3+ and CXCR5+CD19+ cells in BLG-sensitized mice compared to control mice. Immunofluorescence staining of brain sections showed that the differences in the number of CXCR5+ cells among the groups were most prominent in the cortical regions. The adoptive transfer of BLG-sensitized donor splenocytes resulted in the trafficking of CXCR5+ donor cells to the dura mater of naïve recipients, supporting the involvement of CXCR5+ in allergen-induced peripheral-to-central leukocyte trafficking. The role of CXCR5+ leukocytes in neurobehavioral pathology is yet to be elucidated. 

Abstract Title: A Theoretical Investigation of the Selectivity of Aza-Crown-Ether Structures Chelating Alkali Metal Cations for Potential Biosensing Applications

Program: Chemistry

Aza-crown ether structures have been proven effective in constructing fluorescent biosensors for selectively detecting and imaging alkali metal ions in biological environments. However, choosing the right aza-crown ether for a specific alkali metal ion remains challenging for synthetic chemists because theoretical guidance on the chelating activities between aza-crown ethers and alkali metal ions has not been available up to now. Predicting the physical properties of the chelator-metal complexations poses a greater challenge due to the numerous quantum mechanical functionals and basis sets to be used in any theoretical investigation. In this study, we report a theoretical investigation of different aza-crown ether structures and their bindings with different alkali metal ions, which will establish theoretical models to be used for synthesis design by portraying a novel relationship between the binding energies and charge transfer. Furthermore, the calculations can serve as a performance overview of the different types of functionals in Jacob’s ladder of chemical accuracy classification.

Abstract Title: Exploring Athletic Fortitude: The Impact of Emotion Regulation Among Student-Athletes  

Program: Counseling Psychology

The purpose of this study was to understand the presence of psychological fortitude (i.e., grit, growth mindset, emotion regulation, and self-compassion) between gender identities among student athletes. Participants (N = 283) were recruited using Cloud Research and anonymously completed an 88-item Qualtrics questionnaire. Measures used include grit (Duckworth & Quinn, 2009), growth mindset (De Castella & Byrne, 2015), emotion regulation (Gross & John, 2003), and self-compassion (Raes et al., 2011). We found a significant difference (p = .009) in psychological fortitude between men (M = 136.83) and women (M = 131.05). We found a significant difference (p = .033) in emotion regulation between men (M = 50.76) and women (M = 48.27), with a significant difference (p = .007) in suppression of expression between men (M = 19.16) and women (M = 17.51). The findings suggest that men have greater fortitude and engage in greater suppression of emotional expression. 

Abstract Title: Great Expectations: How Gender AAB Shapes Viewpoint Based Perceptual Disparities in Gender Diverse People

Program: Psychology

The current study recruited 334 gender diverse participants, using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) analyses to compare viewpoint (Personal, Societal) and gendered traits (Masculinity, Femininity) based on participant gender assigned at birth (AFAB, AMAB), using six statements about earning and maintaining masculinity and femininity. The Traditional Egalitarian Sex Role Scale (TESR) and Social Dominance Orientation (SDO) Scale were used as covariates to account for some individual variance. As expected, societal belief scores were significantly higher than personal belief scores, and masculinity scores were higher than femininity belief scores. Participants who are assigned female at birth are displayed greater discrepancies in viewpoint based agreement than participants assigned male at birth. These results may indicate a discrepancy in the construct validity of social research surveys for gender diverse populations, and provoke further questions about the impact of expectations placed on people based on the gender they are assigned at birth.

Abstract Title: TGD Youth’s Utilization of Videogame Avatars During Early Gender Exploration: A Grounded Theory Study

Program: Counseling Psychology

This proposed study aims to develop a greater understanding of the ways in which transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth utilize video game avatars for identity development. A constructivist grounded theory (GT) qualitative method will be used as part of this research. GT will be used to gather and analyze detailed data on the meaning that TGD youth derive from the avatar creation process in role-playing video games. Prior qualitative research with TGD youth has suggested that avatar creation serves a functional purpose in self-soothing identity related stress. The current study will recruit 10 TGD young adults via online LGBTQIA + support networks and local community organizations. Participants will complete a 30-minute, semi-structured interview consisting of predetermined open-ended prompting questions regarding their use of avatars in role-playing games. Additional follow-up questions will be posed to increase the richness of the data. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Ab-initio investigation of the swelling behavior of Montmorillonite clay and MXene heterostructures in the presence of cations.

Program: Physics

The swelling behavior of naturally occurring clays like Montmorillonite (MMT) is crucial because it can greatly impact the physical characteristics of soil and rock formations, potentially causing issues in construction and land stability. We conducted ab-initio calculations using VASP to explore this swelling behavior in bi-layer montmorillonite (MMT) clay and compared it to a heterostructure where one MMT layer is replaced by a Ti3C2O2 MXene layer. To neutralize the negative charge, Na+ cations were placed between the layers. We examined the changes in basal spacing, the nature and strength of atomic bonds, and the overall swelling behavior of both materials as the intercalation of water (H2O) between the layers increased. The findings from this research offer insights into the potential suitability of Clay-MXene heterostructures for enhancing stability in such applications.

Abstract Title: Identification and Development of Improved Monitoring for Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions in North Dakota

Program: Biology

Wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs) are a major human safety and wildlife conservation issue faced by a variety of stakeholders globally. To effectively implement mitigation strategies, a robust system of WVC data collection is crucial. North Dakota currently collects WVC data through accident reports filed by law enforcement. These reports are only mandated if human death/injury occurs or if property damage exceeds $4,000, potentially leading to bias-low data. Given this potential limitation, we seek to examine the efficacy of North Dakota’s reporting system by comparing collision data obtained by law enforcement to researcher-collected carcass data. Research will be conducted via highway roadkill surveys across multiple highways throughout the state of North Dakota. We expect to find indications of higher rates of WVCs than current collision data suggests, potentially warranting further research on the impact of linear infrastructure on North Dakota’s ecology. 

Abstract Title: Enhancing Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety in North Dakota: Key Risk Factors and Future Strategies

Program: Civil Engineering

According to the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT), 53% of fatal commercial motor vehicle (CMV) crashes (2017-2023) occurred in Oil Impact Counties. This study examines CMV safety in North Dakota, where rural highways and interstates experience high truck traffic due to energy sector activities. The expansion of the oil and gas industry has increased roadway demands, elevating crash risks. This research analyses CMV crash severity, develops Safety Performance Functions (SPFs) for interstates and highways, and conducts network screening to identify high-risk locations. Crash Modification Factors (CMFs) will also be estimated to evaluate safety interventions. The study focuses on the impact of energy operations on crash patterns and identifies critical risk factors. Findings will provide data-driven insights for policymakers and transportation agencies to develop targeted safety strategies, improve infrastructure, and mitigate crash severity across North Dakota’s road network. Keywords: Truck safety, Oil and Gas, SPFs, Crash Severity, CMFs, Rural Highways.

Abstract Title: From Corn Stover to Sustainable Jet Fuel: A Novel Reaction Scheme

Program: Chemical Engineering

The development of sustainable jet fuels offers a promising path to mitigate global climate change by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This study presents a comprehensive, optimized process for converting corn stover-derived lignin, a renewable waste material, into cyclohexane, a jet fuel component. The novel system integrates a seven-step process, including a non-catalytic fragmentation reactor, an extraction column, recovery steps for target fragments, and a Ni2P/SiO2-catalyzed hydrodeoxygenation reactor. The system was demonstrated with 10 wt% lignin feed, achieving a cyclohexane-rich product stream that meets jet fuel specifications. To date, the optimization of the fragmentation step revealed that operating at 250°C, with a 1-hour residence time and 5 MPa, effectively decomposed lignin into target compounds without coking, ensuring process stability and at least 13 wt% of the inlet lignin carbon has been successfully converted into cyclohexane.

Abstract Title: Attenuation of Cisplatin-induced toxicity in renal proximal tubular cells via Canagliflozin, a glucose-lowering medication

Program: Clinical Translational Science

Cisplatin is a commonly effective chemotherapeutic, yet many patients develop acute kidney injury as a result. Canagliflozin (INVOKANA®), a common glucose-lowering drug, has demonstrated off-target renoprotective effects against cisplatin toxicity. RPTEC/TERT1 is a commercially available immortalized human proximal tubule-like cell line containing HRTPT and HREC24T cell populations with stem-like and more differentiated features, respectively. We treated RPTEC/TERT1 cells with clinically relevant doses of canagliflozin and exposed them to cisplatin to assess canagliflozin’s ability to attenuate cisplatin toxicity. Our results indicate canagliflozin has a significant effect on cisplatin toxicity by increasing RPTEC/TERT1 cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. In conclusion, our study suggests clinically relevant canagliflozin treatment attenuates cisplatin toxicity in RPTEC/TERT1 cells. Moving forward, we will investigate HRTPT and HREC24T cells to determine pathways responsible for canagliflozin attenuation of cisplatin toxicity and assess the ability for canagliflozin to prevent cisplatin-induced cell cycle arrest in HRTPT cells, as preliminary results suggest. 

Abstract Title: The “Sleeping” Cell, How Genetics Plays a Role in Cellular Quiescence

Program: Biomedical Sciences

When cells are exposed to stress, they reduce their activity and enter a non-growing state. This non-growing period of a cell’s life is called quiescence, where a cell enters a “sleeping” state becoming less active. This “sleeping” state involves significant changes facilitated by genes turning off and on within the cell. However, the mechanisms at play within quiescent cells are not well described. To understand the genetic mechanisms that regulate these genes, we are using a model yeast called Schizosaccharomyces pombe, particularly to study why components of a protein called Mediator are uniquely essential in quiescence. By studying proteins (such as Mediator) conserved from yeast to humans, we expect the results of these experiments to be applicable to human systems and aid in understanding stem cell and cancer cell biology. 

Abstract Title: Characterization of a Novel Hydrogel Matrix for 3D Cell Culture Systems

Program: Biomedical Sciences

Three-dimensional cell culture systems are increasingly used to study cell biology due to their ability to recapitulate the extracellular matrix environment by providing physiologically relevant factors including chemical groups, scaffolding, and nutrient diffusion. Biomaterials such as hydrogels have been engineered and commercialized for the study of spheroids and organoids in vitro. We have evaluated a novel synthesized hydrogel by characterizing the development of several cell types into 3D spheroids. We tested various characteristics of the spheroid cultures including cell viability, spheroid size, abundance, and the expression of adhesion proteins and proliferation markers. We found that spheroid growth rate and size is superior in the novel hydrogel matrix relative to commercial products. Use of this novel hydrogel provides a way to rapidly culture cancer cells into robust spheroids, and future work will involve co-culturing and organoid generation for research in tumor biology.

Abstract Title: Caregivers’ Recognition and Treatment-Seeking for Child Sleep Difficulties in Rural Areas

Program: Counseling Psychology

Objectives: Sleep difficulties affect up to 40% of children yet are often underidentified by caregivers. Additionally, research shows that less than half of caregivers recognizing sleep difficulties seek help for their child, highlighting gaps in the help-seeking process. Our understanding of factors that impact treatment-seeking for pediatric sleep disruption is limited, especially in rural areas. This study examined caregivers’ recognition of and treatment-seeking behaviors for child sleep difficulties in rural areas. It aimed to explore the prevalence of perceived sleep problems, readiness for treatment, and factors influencing treatment-seeking decisions. Methods: A national sample of 102 caregivers of children aged 3–10 from rural areas was recruited online. Participants completed demographic measures, the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC), and surveys assessing sleep problem identification, prior service use, readiness for treatment (i.e., thinking about whether treatment would help, thinking about getting treatment, seeking treatment), and confidence in treatment. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Decoding the Underlying Epigenetic Mechanisms of Persistent Lyme Arthritis

Program: Biomedical Sciences

Lyme arthritis (LA) is a manifestation of Lyme disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb).  Although LA can be treated with antibiotics, a small percentage of patients exhibit LA that persists after treatment. We hypothesize that Borrelia infection induces epigenetic changes that prime cells to exhibit sensitivity to future inflammatory stimuli. To test our hypothesis, we briefly treated synoviocyte cells with Bb then grew these cells for an additional eight passages (one month) without Bb. Following treatment with an inflammatory stimulus, the Bb primed cells reveal distinct groups of genes that showed an elevated transcriptional “memory” compared to naïve cells. Our preliminary data implicate Histone H3 lysine 4 monomethyl mark (H3K4Me1) as a “bookmark” of this memory response. Further, treatment with a chemical inhibitor of H3K4Me1 blunts the memory response. Taken together, our work suggests that Bb exposure generates a transcriptional memory response that might be causative for LA.

Abstract Title: Producing Sustainable Construction Materials Through Carbon Mineralization

Program: Civil Engineering

The concrete industry faces significant carbon emissions from cement manufacturing. This study explores carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration via mineralization with industrial residues, like steel slag fines and dry scrubber ash, to repurpose them as supplementary cementitious materials. Cement mortar mixtures incorporating 20% and 50% pre- and post-CO2 mineralized residues were tested for compressive strength at 7 and 28 days. At 20% replacement, post-CO2 mineralized dry scrubber ash resulted in comparable performance to a control sample containing 0% residues, while steel slag required CO2 mineralization to attain greater compressive strength than the control sample. At 50% cement replacement with steel slag, the 7th and 28th day compressive strength tests proved unsatisfactory, highlighting the feasibility of only lower replacement levels. This research demonstrates the potential of CO2 mineralized residues to enhance sustainability in applications that use cement, though performance depends on material type, CO2 treatment, and cement replacement levels.

Abstract Title: In Search of Self-Stigma of Mental Illness Among Medical Students: A Scoping Review 

Program: Counseling Psychology

Medical students experience higher levels of psychological distress compared to their age-equivalent peers. Yet, many medical students do not seek help for mental health concerns which occur commonly during rigorous training. Self-stigma of mental illness may be an important contributor to the discrepancy because of its connection to feelings of shame, low self-esteem, and reduced self-efficacy. However, little is known about mental illness self-stigma among medical students worldwide. This scoping review searches four databases (CIDAHL, ERIC, PsycINFO, PubMed) to identify studies quantitatively measuring the mental illness self-stigma of medical students. An extensive search results in four articles. Gaps in the existing literature are discovered during the screening and selection process. Prominent themes and their implications are discussed to guide future research.

Abstract Title: Supporting College Students with Disabilities Through Self-Advocacy and Accessibility

Program: Occupational Therapy

One in five undergraduate students has a disability (National Center for Education Statistics, n.d.). These students face barriers to higher education due to exclusive policies, procedures, and designs. While college campuses are working towards increased accessibility and belonging, gaps remain that require college students with disabilities (CSWD) to be self-advocates. A literature review was completed to identify the most effective occupational therapy interventions to promote self-advocacy skills including assertiveness, problem solving, self-awareness, and knowledge of resources. The most effective interventions identified for these skills included skills-based training, peer mentorship, and education. A protocol was developed using an occupational therapy frame of reference and evidence-based strategies. It is anticipated that the use of these tools will support access for CSWD, improve self-advocacy, and improve academic outcomes for CSWD. National Center for Education Statistics. (n.d.) Fast facts: Students with disabilities. https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=60

Abstract Title: Modeling and Evaluation of False Data Injection Attacks (FDIA) in PV Inverters

Program: Electrical Engineering

Solar inverters are susceptible to cyber attacks and thus affecting grid stability. This paper presents the development and evaluation of false data injection attack (FDIA) models, designed to enhance the cybersecurity of DER, in solar inverters. Real-time frequency data from two Fronius (Primo 15.0-1 208-240) single-phase solar inverters were used in developing the FDIA models on frequency parameters. Three versions of anomalous data patterns (V1-V3) and five signatures (S1-S5), resulting in the generation of 15 different datasets with unique patterns were analyzed. Mathematical functions such as, gaussian, sigmoid, pulse, sinusoidal and polynomial were used to model randomness and stealthiness of FDIA. Detection analysis was performed to evaluate the stealthiness of each signature using four different machine learning (ML) models: Isolation Forest (IF), Local Outlier Factor (LOF), Elliptic Envelope (EE), and One-Class Support Vector Machine (OC-SVM). ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Evaluating the Influence of a Grassland Restoration Program on Western Meadowlark Occupancy in North Dakota  

Program: Biology

Grassland restoration is a key tool used to reverse habitat loss, a primary driver of catastrophic declines of grassland birds in North America. Restoration success has traditionally been measured by restoration effort, not ecological function. In North Dakota, grassland restoration efforts through The Meadowlark Initiative began in 2022, creating an opportunity to assess outcomes in ecologically meaningful terms. To evaluate grassland restoration outcomes associated with the Meadowlark Initiative, we used Western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) occupancy as a metric to evaluate restoration success. To estimate occupancy changes on reseeded and native grasslands, autonomous recording units were deployed on properties across North Dakota during spring 2023 and 2024. Western meadowlark identification was extracted from sound files using a deep artificial Neural Network (DNN) classifier. Static single species occupancy models were built to evaluate preliminary occurrence trends for restoration treatments with the intent to guide future modeling to disentangle occupancy trends. 

Abstract Title: Effective Literacy Professional Development:  Connecting Research and Practice for Teacher Growth

Program: Teaching & Leadership

Effective literacy professional development (PD) is essential for improving teacher practice and student outcomes, yet research highlights persistent challenges in implementation, alignment, and sustainability. This project synthesizes key literature on effective PD models, emphasizing sustained, job-embedded learning, teacher ownership, and instructional coaching. It examines barriers such as time constraints, competing priorities, and inequitable access to high-quality training. By framing critical questions about literacy PD effectiveness, this work establishes the foundation for a practitioner inquiry into how PD is structured and experienced within a school district. These questions inform a concept-mapping process and stakeholder discussions, guiding future empirical research on the alignment between PD offerings and teacher needs. This study contributes to bridging research and practice, supporting more effective, equitable, and impactful literacy PD.

Abstract Title: Exploring the Effects of Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation on Public School Teachers' Experiences 

Program: Counseling Psychology

Increased political polarization and an influx of legislation that targets the discussion of topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have altered the ways in which K-12 public school teachers navigate their professional roles. This study aims to assess teachers’ knowledge and perceptions of legislation related to DEI, as well as changes they have made in their classrooms to support students during these unprecedented times. 

Abstract Title: Shape Model of NEA (25330) 1999 KV4

Program: Space Studies

Understanding the physical and compositional properties of near-Earth asteroids is crucial to developing sufficient mitigation strategies (Morrison et al. 2002). The lightcurve inversion method (Kaasalainen and Torppa, 2001) maximizes photometric data by deconvolving asteroid lightcurves into convex shapes. The data were calibrated using AstroImageJ, imported into MPO Canopus (BDW Publishing) for lightcurve analysis, and combined with additional lightcurve data to produce a shape model and pole position in LCInvert (BDW Publishing). Observations span phase angles ranging 15.9-81.2° from 2002, 2023-2024 and is found to have a rotational period ranging 4.903-4.919 hours with an amplitude of 0.06-0.19 magnitude from observations by the 24” RC Prompt 3 telescope at CTIO, 25” reflector at Ondrejov Observatory, 24” Zeiss at Modra Observatory, and the 14” SCT at the Sopot Astronomical Observatory. The pole orientation (λ=145±19°, β=-80±16°) and 3D spheroid shape with an equatorial ridge serves as a useful analog for other NEAs exhibiting similar shapes.

Abstract Title: Nanoscale Frictional Properties of Two-Dimensional SnSe and SnSe2 with Lateral Force Microscopy

Program: Physics

In this study, we utilized an atomic force microscopy (AFM)-based lateral force microscopy (LFM) technique to investigate the nanoscale frictional characteristics of 2D SnSe and SnSe2 layers and compare these results with those of graphene, a commonly used solid lubricant. Our findings indicated that both SnSe and SnSe2 layers demonstrated superior lubricative performance compared to graphene of similar thicknesses. The experimental results were further supported by extensive Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, which confirmed the intrinsic material properties that contribute to their enhanced lubricative behavior.

Abstract Title: Enhancing Oxygen Carrier Performance for Chemical Looping Hydrogen Production: A DFT investigation of CO Adsorption on Sr-Doped LaFeO₃

Program: Energy Engineering

Hydrogen combustion presents a promising pathway for diversifying the energy landscape and achieving a sustainable carbon-neutral economy. Chemical looping technologies are more promising for hydrogen production than existing methods due to their improved efficiency for CO₂ separation. The efficiency of the Chemical Looping Hydrogen Production (CLHP) process is dependent on the stability and performance of oxygen carriers (OCs), which participate in fuel oxidation and water-splitting reactions. Sr-doped LaFeO₃ materials have emerged as promising OCs due to their exceptional redox properties. However, a comprehensive understanding of CO adsorption (an essential step in fuel oxidation) on these materials is lacking. In this study, we employ density functional theory (DFT) calculations to explore the adsorption energies of CO on Sr-doped LaFeO₃ surfaces. The results from this study are expected to inform the design of more efficient oxygen carriers, advancing CLHP processes and contributing to sustainable energy solutions. 

Abstract Title: Utilizing Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) in Legal Education: Voice from Bangladesh

Program: Instructional Design & Technology

Virtual Reality (VR) offers immense potential to revolutionize legal education in Bangladesh, where its applications remain limited. Using a mixed-methods approach, a longitudinal survey was conducted on law faculty members from various universities to explore their perceptions and importance of VR integration in law curricula. The survey collected both quantitative and qualitative data, with 59 eligible responses analyzed. Findings indicate overwhelmingly positive attitudes toward VR's capacity to enhance student engagement, memory retention, and comprehension of abstract legal concepts (mean score: 4.0+). Faculty members also recognized the value of VR in providing immersive courtroom simulations, allowing students to develop practical skills in a risk-free environment. The study reveals that VR has the potential to transform legal education by fostering experiential learning, deeper understanding, and skill-building opportunities.

Abstract Title: Hybrid Energy Storage Systems for Renewable Energy Integration: Combining Batteries, Supercapacitors, and Flywheels

Program: Energy Engineering

The global energy landscape in 2025 presents critical challenges in renewable energy integration. Despite advancements in renewable technologies, energy access remains uneven, with millions lacking electricity and relying on fossil fuels. Hybrid Energy Storage Systems (HESS) offer a transformative solution to address renewable energy intermittency and enhance energy security. This research explores HESS as a promising approach to optimize renewable energy utilization. By integrating batteries, supercapacitors, and flywheels, this study aims to develop innovative HESS architectures that can significantly improve grid stability, efficiency, and renewable energy penetration by evaluating HESS performance across various metrics, including efficiency, response time, energy retention, and degradation rates, comparing it to single-technology approaches presently used. By combining the high energy density of batteries, rapid charge/discharge capabilities of supercapacitors, and high-power density of flywheels, HESS can potentially provide more versatile and efficient energy management solutions.

Abstract Title: Application of Unmanned Aerial Systems for Progress Monitoring of Pavement, A case study

Program: Civil Engineering

The use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for inspection, monitoring, and volume measurement in the construction field has recently increased. Monitoring projects for safety, progress, and changes in material volume are key responsibilities of project engineers. Daily monitoring demands considerable time for engineers to document evidence. Limited studies have explored the use of UAS in construction monitoring, with most applications primarily focused on inspection. In this case study, UAS was employed to monitor the progress of highway paving. Pavement layer thickness differences before and after paving were estimated using 3D models to demonstrate UAS capabilities in tracking project advancement. Visual images of road construction were captured in several UAS flights. Road 3D models were generated using commercially available software before paving, and after 2-inch and 6-in paving lift. A change detection algorithm was developed to track surface changes between the models. The results showed UAS-imagery can provide reasonably precise models which can be used to monitor construction. 

Abstract Title: Critical Resource Recovery from Disposable Produced Water in the North Dakota Williston Basin Oilfields Using the NanoLiSal Recovery Model

Program: Petroleum Engineering

Oilfield-produced water (PW), a byproduct of petroleum extraction, often contains valuable salts and critical elements like lithium. Leveraging these elements offers an opportunity to enhance revenue streams while addressing sustainability challenges. This research conducts a comprehensive economic analysis of lithium extraction from produced water in the Bakken Formation using the NanoLiSal recovery model. It evaluates project costs, revenue potential, implementation strategies, and environmental impacts. Through financial modeling, industry trend analysis, and environmental assessments, the study highlights the viability of this recovery process. Results reveal patterns, challenges, and potential benefits, emphasizing the model’s capacity to transform disposable wastewater into a valuable resource. The research outlines a structured project framework, detailing overall costs and anticipated income while demonstrating how the NanoLiSal process supports sustainability goals. This study provides actionable insights into economic feasibility, offering guidance for future research and practical applications in the petroleum sector.

Abstract Title: SHRINKAGE CRACKING IN CONCRETE INFRASTRUCTURE

Program: Civil Engineering

ABSTRACT: Shrinkage cracking in concrete infrastructure is a significant issue affecting serviceability and durability. As concrete dries, it shrinks, leading to tensile stresses and potential cracking when movement is restrained. Cracking resistance depends on shrinkage potential, tensile strength, shrinkage rate, and tensile creep characteristics. Shrinkage has a major influence on the extent of cracking and deflection in structures, necessitating consideration in design. Various factors contribute to plastic cracking, including surface finishing, capillary action, bleeding, evaporation, and particle settlement. This study has focused on developing test methods, understanding material influences, and creating theoretical models to predict cracking potential. Mitigation strategies include using shrinkage-reducing admixtures, fogging, reducing particle content, and incorporating fibers. Analytical procedures have been developed to estimate crack width, spacing, and long-term deflection.

Abstract Title: The Scanning Technique: Approach & Landing

Program: Education, Health, & Behavior Studies

The purpose of this research is to apply controlled interventions to evaluate the effectiveness of training methods with currently enrolled aviation undergraduate students at the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, University of North Dakota (UND) during an approach and landing phase in an airplane single-engine land (ASEL) of light general aviation training-type aircraft with electronic flight instrument display systems (EFIS). The researchers aim for the findings to measure perceptions of novice pilots in the training progress, provide an effective training method with the potential to articulate the difference in experience, improve performance quality, strengthen operational safety and reduce attrition of implicit learning in pilot schools, as defined by 14 CFR Part 141.

Abstract Title: In the mix: Patterns of warthog herding behaviour in single- and mixed-species herds

Program: Biology

Forming mixed-species herds is a common anti-predator behaviour of many African herbivores. Here, we quantify the degree to which the common warthog (Phacocherus africanus) uses herding behaviour as a strategy to potentially reduce risk. We found that warthog occurred in mixed-species herds ~50% of the time and that total herd size of mixed-species herds was significantly larger than single-species herds. We observed that impala – a highly preyed upon species – were warthog’s most common heterospecific herd mate. Finally, within mixed-species herds, warthog orientated themselves so that they were most commonly found to be surrounded by heterospecifics by 180o. 

Abstract Title: Effect of a Video Display on Student Engagement in a Genealogy Lesson

Program: Educational Studies

This study explored the impact of two different delivery methods on student engagement in a family genealogy lesson.  Four young relatives aged 9 to 12 separately accessed an audio-only, podcast-like PowerPoint presentation and an audio-visual PowerPoint presentation via Dropbox. Each presentation told the same family story. Prior to accessing the presentations, each child took a pre-test via Qualtrics to measure his or her factual knowledge. Each child took a post-test following each presentation to measure how much information they had retained and their response to the delivery method. No difference was found in how many dates or geographical details they remembered after accessing each presentation, but all four children were more engaged by the presentation that incorporated visuals and all four remembered the ancestor was their age when she immigrated. Student engagement in family genealogy lessons is enhanced by a personal connection to the material and incorporation of visual displays.

Abstract Title: GROWTH HORMONE-DEFICIENT AMES DWARF MICE RESIST SARCOPENIA AND EXHIBIT ENHANCED ENDURANCE RUNNING PERFORMANCE AT 24 MONTHS

Program: Biomedical Sciences

Ames dwarf mice (df/df) live 50% longer than normal littermates due to a genetic defect in growth hormone (GH) signaling. We characterized the fitness capacity and muscle morphology of Ames mice to determine if longevous effects of GH deficiency extend to skeletal muscle tissue. Dwarf mice outperformed controls increasingly with age in endurance running. Tibialis anterior muscles were evaluated for myofiber size and quality. Ames mice show reduced myofiber cross-sectional area (CSA) paired with increased myofibers per muscle. Dwarf mice resist sarcopenia, as muscle from aged individuals shows youthful morphological resemblance in mean myofiber CSA, size frequency distribution, and presence of fibrotic tissue. Declines in fitness performance and myofiber integrity were observable in wildtype controls - indicative of muscular decline. Utilizing a longevity model to investigate skeletal muscle function and morphology is a novel approach to gain insight into the inverse relationship between GH signaling and mammalian longevity.

Abstract Title: Faculty Perceptions and Readiness for Inclusive Teaching in Undergraduate Classrooms

Program: Teaching & Leadership

Inclusive teaching is crucial in higher education to ensure equitable learning experiences for students with disabilities. Faculty members play an important role in building accessibility in the classrooms. Though many educators show positive attitudes toward inclusion, studies found that faculty often feel unprepared due to limited training, lack of institutional support, and insufficient knowledge regarding disability-inclusive pedagogy (Zegeye, 2022). This gap between perception and preparedness can create barriers to students’ active participation and academic achievement (Manalo, 2024). Professional development programs focused on disability inclusion, such as student disability resources, can improve faculty confidence and effectiveness in supporting these students (Meda et al., 2023). This future research will explore perceptions and readiness of the faculties from various fields and years of experiences by purposive sampling, semi-structured interviews, and in-depth analysis at the University of North Dakota to implement teaching strategies that support students with disabilities in undergraduate classroom settings.

Abstract Title: Reimagining Gender Through Language: A Study of Begum Rokeya’s “Sultana’s Dream” and Greta Gerwig’s "Barbie"

Program: English

The concept of ‘gender’ has always been muddled with the idea of ‘sex’. Confusing these two words synonymously, we are often given some definite role to play to normalize and accept these meanings as truth. This idea of gender is produced with language and its inherent power. Therefore, this article will investigate Begum Rokeya’s “Sultana’s Dream” and Greta Gerwig’s Barbie to examine how gender is linguistically constructed and perpetuated by the elites. Both texts challenge the concept of gender identity revealing the centrality of language as a tool of both oppression and resistance. These texts present a utopian reversal of patriarchal norms, where women wield power and language to redefine societal structures. By analyzing “Sultana’s Dream” and Barbie within the lens of Saussure and Foucault, this study will advocate how the concept of gender naturalized and how it is constructed by linguistic and symbolic systems embedded in power relations. 

Abstract Title: Barriers to Achieving Academic Success in Medical School: A Framework for a Qualitative Study 

Program: Teaching & Leadership

Background: Medical students experience stressors in medical school, including pressure to score highly on exams and prioritizing academic performance above wellness, and stigma around seeking help, leading to physician burnout and depression. This framework aims to explore barriers to academic success in medical students. Methods & Results: This phenomenological qualitative study will use semi-structured focus groups and one-on-one interviews to elucidate the lived experiences of medical students. Purposive sampling and a semi-structured, flexible interview guide based on a published MOSAIC survey will be used. A total of 2-4 focus groups and 10-12 individual face-to-face, audio-recorded interviews will be conducted. Transcripts of focus groups and interviews will then be subjected to qualitative content analysis. Conclusion: This study will provide insight and awareness regarding barriers medical students encounter that interfere with their academic success to make necessary adjustments and provide supportive measures to increase overall student success.

Abstract Title: Unveiling the Impact of Substitutional Doping on the Oxidation Behavior of MoAlB: A Comprehensive First-Principles Study

Program: Physics

This study utilized density functional theory to examine how Si, Zr, Cr, and C doping affects the oxidation behavior of the (010) and (111) surfaces of MoAlB. Si doping at the Al site weakens Al−O bonds, while Zr doping at the Mo site significantly strengthens the Zr−O bonds, enhancing the stability of the doped structure. Zr and C doping cause notable variations in Al, B, and Mo defect formation energies on the surface layer, while Si has a lesser impact. Zr doping reduces Al vacancy diffusion barriers by 0.2 eV, promoting Al migration toward the surface and enhancing the formation of a protective Al2O3 layer on the MoAlB surface. In contrast, Si doping increases the Al vacancy diffusion barrier energy by 0.1 eV, potentially slowing oxidation on the surface. Zr increases oxygen penetration barriers into subsurface layers, strengthening surface oxidation but limiting deeper migration, while Si lowers these barriers, allowing more extensive oxygen diffusion. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Ku-Band Radar for Space Object Tracking: Advancing Phased Array Design.

Program: Electrical Engineering

This research project aims to develop a ground-based radar system to track space objects, featuring both parabolic and phased array configurations. The phased array design is the primary focus, offering modular scalability and dynamic beam steering capabilities. Critical components, including power dividers and phase shifters, are being developed in-house to optimize efficiency and sustain the heat generated by the high-power system. The radar is intended to operate in the Ku band, which is well-suited for high-resolution space tracking. By integrating advanced signal processing and machine learning algorithms, the system is designed to detect and track multiple targets under varying conditions. This innovative approach to ground-based radar technology is expected to enhance space situational awareness and support future applications in satellite monitoring and scientific research, ultimately contributing to a robust and efficient radar-tracking solution.

Abstract Title: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN WEATHER VARIABLITY AND AGRICULTURAL LAND COVER CHANGE IN NORTH DAKOTA (1997-2023) AND ITS IMPLICATION FOR FUTURE CHANGE

Program: Geography

Climate variability significantly impacts agricultural land use and land cover (LULC) in North Dakota, where agriculture dominates the landscape. This study examines the effects of rainfall, temperature, and Growing Degree Days (GDD) on LULC changes from 1997 to 2023, with projections for 2033. Using geospatial tools like Google Earth Engine and machine learning models such as Random Forest (RF), ARIMA, and LSTM, the research links climate variables to agricultural patterns. Findings reveal a shift toward monoculture, particularly spring wheat, corn, and soybeans, at the expense of sunflower, raising concerns about soil fertility and ecological resilience. Projections highlight intensified cultivation hotspots in southeastern and northeastern regions and it might be due to the effect of rising GDD and temperature. The RF model achieved a 97% accuracy and a 0.95 Kappa coefficient, demonstrating its reliability. This research provides critical insights for adaptive strategies to ensure sustainable agriculture and resilience against climate variability.

Abstract Title: Seismic Performance Evaluation of Hollow Steel Tubular Piers under Combined Bidirectional Cyclic and Axial Loading

Program: Civil Engineering

This study investigates the seismic performance of hollow steel tubular bridge piers under combined axial and bi-directional cyclic loading. Finite element analyses have been used to evaluate the effects of key design parameters, including width-to-thickness ratio, slenderness ratio, and axial load, on the strength and ductility of these structures. The study has developed strain-based ductility formulas and seismic verification methods for both uni- and bi-directional loading, with the latter being more critical for design. Moreover, this study has also compared the performance of columns with uniform and graded thickness, partially infill concrete, proposing design formulae for ultimate strength and ductility under bi-directional loading. These investigations have led to enhanced performance-based seismic verification frameworks that incorporate bi-directional effects, improving the assessment of pier performance and seismic resilience.

Abstract Title: Optimizing Modified Asphalt Binder Performance: Role of Recycled Polyethylene and Waste Cooking Oil

Program: Civil Engineering

This study focuses on utilizing recycled polyethylene as an asphalt binder modifier. The modified binder was evaluated for high and average temperature performance under different aging conditions. A comprehensive analysis of rheology tests was performed to assess fatigue cracking and rutting resistance. A shredded blend of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) obtained from grocery bag recycling was used to modify the Performance Grade (PG) 58S-34 asphalt binder. The polyethylene (PE) blend has been replaced in proportions of 0%,1.5%, 3%, 4.5%, and 6% by weight of the PG 58S-34 binder. Waste cooking oil (WCO) was added to the PE-modified binder to improve fatigue resistance.  The results indicate significant improvement in the PE-modified binder rutting resistance, allowing extreme heavy traffic loading. while including WCO in the PE improved fatigue resistance. Asphalt binder with 4.5%PE and 5%WCO replacement resulted in optimum performance at high and average temperatures.

Abstract Title: Comparative Analysis Between Empirical Correlations and Time Series Models for the Prediction and Forecasting of Unconventional Bakken Wells Production

Program: Energy Engineering

Forecasting oil and gas production in unconventional reservoirs is crucial and increasingly utilizes advanced methods like machine learning and deep learning due to the availability of extensive historical data. Traditional approaches falter in these complex scenarios, whereas machine learning and deep learning thrive by providing insights and handling disruptions like pressure issues effectively. This study evaluates ten empirical models against cutting-edge deep learning and time series models (ARIMA, LSTM, GRU) within the Bakken shale of the Williston Basin. Through detailed calibration with substantial data, the models' effectiveness is gauged using R2-score and MSE. The results indicate variable well-specific performances, with no single model consistently excelling across all cases. Remarkably, a well-adjusted ARIMA model showed promising outcomes for numerous wells. This research supports reservoir engineers by streamlining the identification of production decline trends, reducing dependency on complex decline curve analysis, and promoting a more reliable and simplified forecasting approach.

Abstract Title: Investigating the Impact of High Viscosity Friction Reducers on Proppant Transport & Well Productivity in Bakken Wells

Program: Petroleum Engineering

Inefficient Proppant transport is a big concern due to friction losses and low viscosity of fluids to suspend the particles. To effectively transport proppants through the tubulars and deep into the fractures, the use of fracturing fluid with high viscosity friction reducers (HVFRs) is gaining popularity. Multiple field study shows that HVFRs improve proppant transportation (Yang et al., 2019). The goal of this work is to simulate the proppant transport under proppant pumping schedules (HVFRs and varying concentrations) according to the geomechanical and geological settings of the Bakken formation and to evaluate the effects of proppant schedules on well production for fracturing fluids with HVFRs.  With the large volume of water needed to complete multi-well pad the water quality can vary. To determine HVFRs loading as water quality changes, proper type of HVFRs and pump schedule is important.

Abstract Title: School Safety at American Schools: How Community Involvement and School Activities Mitigate Student Harassment? 

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

Student harassment in American schools is a complex issue and creates major obstacles for communities, families, and educational institutions. It is critical to understand the causes of harassment and identify the activities which have strong relationship with harassment in schools. In this study, researchers analyzed secondary data from a School Survey on Crime and Safety (SSOCS) survey which included 2,762 school principals’ responses conducted by NCES. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between family/community involvement and school activities with student harassment. Findings indicate that significant differences exist across various community groups, with law enforcement, juvenile justice, and mental health agencies have strong relationship with harassment particularly for sexual orientation and gender identity. Additionally, among school activities, social-emotional learning programs and behavior modification intervention programs have significant differences based on sexual orientation. It highlights the need for targeted interventions to enhance student safety and foster inclusive school environments.

Abstract Title: Decoding Noradrenergic Dysfunction in the AppNL-G-F Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease

Program: Biomedical Sciences

Our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has evolved significantly over the years, yet many mysteries persist, particularly regarding the early changes that precipitate neuronal death. Among these, the locus coeruleus (LC), with its dense population of noradrenergic neurons, remains a point of interest based on its early degeneration in AD. However, the precise mechanism of LC cell loss and resulting consequences on disease remain unclear. To better understand LC changes during disease, we compared six-month-old male and female C57BL/6 wild-type mice to the AppNL-G-F knock-in model of AD (n=6). Immunostaining for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), as the rate-limiting enzyme for norepinephrine synthesis, was used to quantify cell loss in the LC. As a relevant efferent output of the LC, we quantified norepinephrine levels in the hippocampus and compared this, via western blot, to levels of metabolic enzymes TH, dopamine beta-hydroxylase, monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), and monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B). ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Examining Validity Measure in Military Veterans Referred for ADHD Testing

Program: Counseling Psychology

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a psychological disorder that is prevalent in approximately 2-5% of the adult population. Over the past few decades, there has been a growing prevalence of this condition among military veterans. Many adults are assessed for ADHD using psychological assessments such as The Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales–Self Report: Long Version. The purpose of the current study is to compare embedded validity measures within the CAARS:S-L to standalone validity assessments in military veterans referred for ADHD testing. This study hypothesizes that embedded validity measures on the CAARS:S-L will correlate highly with both standalone validity assessments. Limitations and future directions will be discussed.

Abstract Title: Optimal Air Corridor Design for Efficient Integration of AAM Vehicles into the NAS

Program: Applied Economics & Predictive Analytics

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) corridors are critical concept in the field of urban air mobility (UAM) and are vital for enabling safe and efficient integration of AAM/UAM traffic into the National Airspace System (NAS). By defining specific routes, AAM corridors aim to minimize the risk of collisions and improve traffic management within our increasingly complex NAS. This study proposes an AAM corridor operating at an altitude of 2,000 feet connecting Thompson and Fargo, North Dakota, with designated vertiports at both locations. Key design considerations include minimizing the impact on existing air traffic and avoiding areas of high population density. In this study we implement the A* algorithm with weighted heatmaps using real-world data to identify the paths that best balance efficiency and safety. Future research could include AI-driven dynamic corridor adjustment and integration of multi-vehicle traffic in AAM corridors. 

Abstract Title: The Role of Perceived Institutional Support in STEM Faculty Members' Research Motivation and Success

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

This study examines the role of perceived institutional support (PIS) in shaping research motivation and success among STEM faculty. Using a sample of 651 faculty members, we conducted statistical analyses, including ANOVA, regression modeling, and exploratory factor analysis. Results indicate significant differences in PIS based on faculty rank (F = 5.232, p < .001, η² = 0.04), tenure status (F = 7.018, p < .001, η² = 0.03), and discipline (F = 1.611, p = .099). Regression analyses revealed that PIS significantly predicts research success (β = 1.000, p < .001), while social factors (β = 0.576, p = .956) and job satisfaction (β = -0.827, p = .245) showed weaker associations. Factor analysis confirmed the unidimensional structure of institutional support (KMO = 0.88). Findings highlight the need for targeted institutional policies, including research funding, administrative support, and faculty mentorship, to enhance research productivity and job satisfaction.

Abstract Title: Analysis of Fused Filament Fabrication Parts By using 316L SS Filament

Program: Mechanical Engineering

This study aims to investigate the Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 316L Stainless Steel parts; this process uses extrusion of the filament and prints the sample layer by layer. The filament has 80% metal and 20% binder content; after printing, the binder will be removed by de-binding and passed for sintering. The objective of this study is to analyze the de-binding process on the different heating rates, which will help us understand the mass loss in the samples, which helps us create dense parts and drastically improves mechanical properties. However, the studies have shown that the sample has channelized pores, significantly diminishing the material properties. The dependencies between processing parameters and fundamental material behaviors, including inter-particle diffusion, pore closure, and bonding establishment, are discussed. Sintering helps neck and shrink the pores. This printer has economic advantages over other additive manufacturing; it will be helpful for producing cheaper medical parts at instant requirements.

Abstract Title: The Role of Student Loan Debt on Delayed Homeownership Among Black American College Graduates

Program: Education, Health, & Behavior Studies

This study aims to examine the role of student loan debt in delaying homeownership for Black American college graduates and examine additional factors that influence the delay. Black Americans face lower homeownership rates, with student loan debt significantly worsening this disparity (Dey & Brown, 2022). Using data from the restricted-use Baccalaureate and Beyond dataset, tracking 1,894 Black American college graduates from 2007/2008 to 2018, the study analyses student loan balances and explores other influencing factors through statistical methods, including independent samples t-tests and logistic regression. The findings will highlight the role of student loan debt in delayed homeownership for Black American college graduates and provide valuable insights for policymakers and financial institutions to develop more effective financial products and housing policies tailored to the unique challenges Black American college graduates face in achieving homeownership.

Abstract Title: Advances in molecular excited state methods for quantum computers

Program: Chemistry

The calculation of the excited states is highly important in modeling various chemical processes and applications, such as those in spectroscopy, photochemistry, and photophysics. Several algorithms have been developed for calculation of accurate molecular excited states using quantum computers, leading among them include Quantum Subspace Expansion (QSE) and Quantum Self-Consistent Equation-of-Motion(q-sc-EOM). However, practical factors such as statistical sampling errors, which are unavoidable in quantum computers due to the statistical nature of quantum mechanics, can prohibitively impact their performance. We present here a study on the effect of sampling errors on leading molecular excited state methods. Through numerical tests we conclude that the q-sc-EOM method, that is developed by our team, is the most reliable option when statistical sampling errors are taken into consideration. The challenges imposed by sampling errors in quantum algorithms and robustness of the q-sc-EOM method for molecular excited state calculations will be the focus of this poster.

Abstract Title: Investigation in Using Kinesthetic Learning of Electricity and Magnetism in SCALE-UP 

Program: Physics

This study investigates the effectiveness of incorporating kinesthetic learning activities into a SCALE-UP (Student-Centered Active Learning Environment with Upside-down Pedagogies) physics course to improve students' conceptual understanding of electricity and magnetism. This study aims to explore the effects of adding kinesthetic activities to a first-year 2nd semester physics course on student learning that included 92 students in three groups, traditional, scale-up control, scale-up activity classrooms. Nine active learning activities were designed to promote learning.  A unique pre-post instrument was used to gauge student learning. Three questions from an instrument showed statistically significant improvement in student scores from the semester that did not have the new activities and the semester that did. These questions were on wire attraction, Ohm’s Law, and electric charge. From this it was found that the hands-on activities improved students' understanding of electric circuits and charges, Ohm's Law, and capacitors.

Abstract Title: Prominin 1 (CD133) is critical for the Resistance of Renal Tubular Progenitor Cells to Cisplatin.

Program: Clinical Translational Science

The kidney tubules are highly susceptible to damage from the chemotherapeutic drug (cisplatin), leading to both acute and chronic kidney damage. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of CD133 in the response of CD133+CD24+ renal tubular progenitor cells to cisplatin. We are using chronic cisplatin treatment of the immortalized HRTPT renal tubular progenitor CD133+CD24+ cell model along with CD133 stable knockdown using a lentiviral vector. The results show that chronic cisplatin treatment induced cell cycle arrest in control HRTPT cells, followed by a recovery of proliferation capacity after 17 days. In contrast, CD133 knockdown in HRTPT cells delayed the proliferation recovery by 66days. In conclusion, CD133 has protective effects against cisplatin-induced damage in renal tubular progenitor cells and is critical for the proliferation capacity of renal tubular progenitor cells. CD133 represents a potential therapeutic target to improve renal recovery from cisplatin toxicity.

Abstract Title: Exploring gender perceptions of occupational therapy doctoral students at UND

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

Since its inception in 1917, the field of occupational therapy (OT) has always had a wide gender discrepancy. Despite major events of the past and present, gender makeup of the profession has remained unchanged. To date, little research has been completed to gain an understanding of how one’s gender identity impacts the many facets of the student experience. The purpose of this study is to explore and capture the perspectives of OT students based on year in their program through focus group research. The study follows classic qualitative methodology with thematic analysis. Experiential learning theory served as the framework for the study. It is anticipated that a distinction will exist amongst participants regarding their perceptions and experiences relating to gender. Factors such as year in the program and age may also manifest significant discrepancies. Results will provide greater understanding for the OT profession regarding genders impact on student experience.

Abstract Title: Comparative Analysis of Serial-Parallel vs. Parallel-Serial MOSFET Configurations for Battery Management Systems

Program: Electrical Engineering

Lithium-ion batteries are critical to modern energy systems, with MOSFET-based circuits ensuring safe charge/discharge operations. This study evaluates two industry-standard configurations: Serial-Parallel (SP) and Parallel-Serial (PS). Through circuit simulations under varied operational settings, we analyze their impact on battery reliability and efficiency. Results demonstrate that the PS configuration exhibits superior reliability in managing voltage fluctuations and thermal stress compared to SP, while maintaining comparable energy efficiency. These findings highlight PS as a more robust design choice for optimizing battery performance, with implications for next-generation energy storage systems.

Abstract Title: Athletic Mental Wellness: The Impact of Psychological Fortitude on Student-Athletes 

Program: Counseling Psychology

The purpose of this study was to understand the presence of psychological fortitude (i.e., grit, growth mindset, emotion regulation, and self-compassion) among student athletes, and how this attribute relates to an athlete’s well-being and satisfaction with their sport. Participants (N = 283) were recruited using Cloud Research’s survey recruitment service. Athletes experience various pressures related to their sport engagement, and the demands placed on athletes contributes to persistent mental health difficulties (Beebe et al., 2023). We found a significant difference in student-athletes’ suppression of their expressions, F (1, 280) = 6.31, p = .013, between those who have (M = 19.42, SD = 5.08) and have not (M = 17.86, SD = 4.80) received an athletic scholarship. We found psychological fortitude had a significant relationship with a student-athlete’s subjective well-being (p < .001) and sport satisfaction (p < .001). Athletes with greater psychological fortitude reported higher well-being and sport satisfaction. 

Abstract Title: Studentification in College Towns: the Case of Grand Forks, North Dakota

Program: Geography

This study explores “studentification” in Grand Forks, a nonmetropolitan college town home to the University of North Dakota (UND). Studentification, derived from gentrification studies, describes how student populations reshape neighborhood demographics, housing, and the economy. With UND’s record-high enrollment and limited on-campus housing, student demand is driving rental market shifts, increasing prices, and displacing long-term residents. Community concerns include housing affordability, neighborhood cohesion, and access to essential services. This research maps student population concentrations and examines their alignment with studentification theories. Using spatial analysis and statistical correlation of rental and population data, it highlights both tensions and opportunities for community adaptation. The study contributes to gentrification literature by focusing on studentification in a nonmetropolitan U.S. context. Findings offer insights into how university growth impacts local housing, informing policy discussions on sustainable development and affordability in smaller college towns.

Abstract Title: Kinetic study of pyrolyzed plastic waste

Program: Chemical Engineering

Plastic pollution is a global problem due to current waste management methods.  The majority of plastics sent for recycling are landfilled due to insufficient pathways for mechanical recycling.  Chemical recycling, or pyrolysis, has been gaining attention as a possible approach to break down and reuse currently non-recyclable plastic. Current studies focus on understanding the kinetics of pyrolytic breakdown of plastic using variable heating ramps. This does not provide enough knowledge of what happens during the breakdown in the initial stages of pyrolysis. Our work focuses on understanding the first seconds of kinetic behavior of pyrolyzed plastic in real-time using 1-minute-long evolved gas analysis (EGA) experiments, allowing us to obtain breakdown profiles and mathematically express the breakdown. EGA was combined with thermal desorption – pyrolysis – gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (TD-Py-GC-MS) performed for seconds at a time, which focused on understanding how plastic breaks down with time and what breakdown products are formed.

Abstract Title: Perceptions of typical community member’s MHHS behaviors

Program: Counseling Psychology

Mental health help-seeking (MHHS) behaviors may differ between rural and urban individuals. Research on MHHS has identified unique barriers to seeking help in rural populations that may lead to poor health outcomes compared to urban populations. The primary goal of the current research is to understand urban and rural differences in perceived norms of mental health symptom recognition and help-seeking behavior. Sixty adults (urban n=30, rural n=30) qualitatively responded to symptom recognition and help-seeking behavior prompts when thinking about a typical member of their community. Their responses were coded using a thematic analysis approach. Findings will provide insight into rural and urban differences that will provide a better understanding of mental health stigma in rural communities and barriers to seeking help. This knowledge will enable tailored interventions to more effectively address barriers to MHHS. 

Abstract Title: Investigating the Occurrence of Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)   in Window Installation Materials

Program: Chemistry

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a family of manmade fluorinated organic chemicals that have adverse effects on the environment and humans. PFAS have widely been used in products like non-stick cookware's. Despite restrictions on the use of certain PFAS like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), the widespread use of other PFAS is of growing concern. In this study, we investigated the occurrence of PFAS in window installation materials by a two-step method; evolved gas analysis-mass spectrometry (EGA-MS) and thermal desorption-pyrolysis-gas chromatography mass spectrometry (TD-Pyr-GC-MS). EGA-MS revealed the presence of ions characteristic of PFAS. TD-Pyr-GC-MS enabled the separation and identification of compounds. This revealed presence of perfluorooctanoic acid and octafluoro-2-butene in fiberglass, and an isomer of C₃F₆ in window screens. Window screen samples were found to contain phthalates, which are also of concern. EGA-MS and TD-Pyr-GC-MS proved effective for the rapid screening and simultaneous determination of chemicals of concern in complex matrices.

Abstract Title: Healthcare Accessibility and Healthcare Utilization Among People with Disabilities 

Program: Counseling Psychology

There are many barriers and disparities that rural residents and people with disabilities experience when seeking healthcare. This study used a mixed methods approach to explore and compare barriers to healthcare, healthcare utilization, and psychological outcomes in urban and rural people with disabilities. Specifically, N = 150 adults with a disability from a rural or urban area in the United States were recruited online using Connect to complete a survey. Participants filled out measures of healthcare utilization, barriers to healthcare, loneliness, social support, depression, anxiety, and stress. Additionally, they answered open-ended questions related to their healthcare barriers and experiences. Findings suggest an overall lack of significant differences in barriers to healthcare, healthcare utilization, and psychological outcomes between rural and urban groups. The lack of significant findings in the current study may be due to the overarching challenges of having a disability identity, regardless of location.

Abstract Title: The Pathways to Success in becoming a Commercial Pilot

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

The pathway to becoming a professional pilot involves critical decisions regarding training programs, particularly in structured Part 141 institutes of higher education. One key factor influencing a student pilot’s journey is whether they enter a Part 141 program with a previously earned Private Pilot Certificate or without prior certification. This study explores the differences between these two entry points in terms of training duration, cost efficiency, student performance, and career progression. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research will analyze flight school data, student success metrics, and instructor and student insights to compare training outcomes. The findings are expected to highlight the advantages and challenges associated with each pathway, providing valuable insights for students, educators, and aviation regulators. By understanding these differences, aviation educators can refine training programs to optimize student success to prepare future pilots for the industry, while students can better understand the pathways offered. 

Abstract Title: Experiential Scaled Flight Models in Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Training

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

Urban Air Mobility (UAM) introduces innovative aircraft technologies designed to operate in non-traditional aviation environments. However, the absence of standardized electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) training programs presents significant challenges. Through the lens of experiential learning theory, this research investigates how experimental sub-scaled flight models can enhance initial flight training, ensuring safe and effective pilot preparation for future  UAM operations. This study employs a mixed-methods convergent design to integrate qualitative and quantitative data, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of experimental sub-scaled flight models in UAM training. Following the four-phase model, the study will design research strands, analyze data, merge results, and interpret findings, maximizing the complementarity of quantitative trends and qualitative depth for a more robust evaluation of eVTOL flight training methodologies.  Findings will provide empirical validation for sub-scale experimental flight models in eVTOL training, addressing gaps in UAM pilot education, regulatory readiness, and flight safety. 

Abstract Title: A Holistic Approach Towards Computational Thinking Assessment in Education 

Program: Computer Science

Students today face complex problems that require critical thinking skills, closely aligned with computational thinking (CT). To prepare them for the digital age, there is a growing effort to integrate CT as a fundamental skill in K-12 education. CT fosters problem-solving abilities such as decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking, enabling students to become active creators rather than passive consumers of technology. This study explores strategies for assessing CT in non-programming contexts. Embedding CT in education not only prepares students for STEM careers but also enhances their decision-making and problem-solving skills in everyday life. A holistic assessment approach—combining cognitive and non-cognitive evaluations with regular assessments—can provide educators with a deeper understanding of students’ CT competencies. Assessments that combine short tasks with multiple-choice and short-answer questions, offer an effective way to measure CT skills, ensuring comprehensive evaluation and meaningful learning outcomes. 

Abstract Title: Elucidating the Dynamic Interactions of Borrelia burgdorferi Surface Proteins with Fibronectin using Atomic Force Microscopy

Program: Physics

Lyme disease (LD) is the most prevalent arthropod-borne illness in the United States, with an estimated 476,000 cases diagnosed annually. Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb), the primary causative agent of LD in the northern U.S., is a bacterium with a genome rich in adhesins, which may allow it to colonize extracellular matrix-rich tissues as a potential mechanism for immune evasion. This study examined the mechanical interactions between Bb proteins—RevA, BmpA, OspA, FlaB, OspC, and BBK32—and the human protein fibronectin (Fn) using AFM. Dishes were coated with the target proteins, while cantilever tips were functionalized with Fn for Dynamic Force Spectroscopy (DFS) measurements at the single-molecule level. This approach enabled us to quantify the dynamic force interactions of these adhesins under varying loading rates, providing detailed insights into their biomechanical properties. This study aims to better understand the role of surface proteins in the pathogenesis of Lyme disease, their mechanisms of action, and their potential as targets for therapeutic development.

Abstract Title: Aggregation-induced emission of benzyl alcohol and cinnamyl alcohol end-capped hyperbranched poly(silylether)s

Program: Chemistry

In recent years, there has been much interest in unconventional fluorescent polymers that do not include aromatic luminous due to their facile synthesis, higher biocompatibility, and environment friendliness. However, poor fluorescence efficiency is still a significant disadvantage. This study synthesized a fluorescent hyperbranched poly(silyl ether) by covalently end-capping phenyl silane and benzyl alcohol and their corresponding nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy and DLS were employed to confirm the formation of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles exhibited nontraditional intrinsic luminescence arising from aggregated induced emission. The fluorescence is ascribed to the synergism of vinyl and benzene groups and the Si−O group through space conjugation and aggregation of the polymer into nanoparticles. Moreover, the solvent effect and pH dependency properties of polymers were studied. These findings contribute to our understanding of the fluorescence properties of these polymers and open up new possibilities for their practical applications, such as in cancer cell imaging.

Abstract Title: A Review of U.S. State Legislation on CAV Testing and Operations: Challenges and Opportunities

Program: Civil Engineering

The rapid advancement of connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) technology has the potential to revolutionize transportation systems. However, it also presents unique challenges, especially in rural and low-density regions like North Dakota. This study provides a detailed examination of the legislative, regulatory, and technical requirements needed to support the successful deployment of CAVs across the state's highway infrastructure. The study begins with an in-depth review of current state and federal regulations, policies, and safety standards, identifying key legal and regulatory gaps that need to be addressed. It then proposes specific legislative updates tailored to create a comprehensive and robust framework to facilitate CAV integration. The study includes a comparison of current laws related to connected autonomous vehicles (CAVs) in different states and regions. This study aims to outline the challenges and opportunities of operating CAVs in North Dakota's rural environment. It highlights potential barriers such as legal inconsistencies and infrastructure limitations, while also identifying opportunities to enhance mobility, safety, and traffic flow. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Wearable Insights: Improving Elderly Care Through Behavior Monitoring

Program: Computer Science

With the rising age of the population in the United States, there is a great demand for elderly care at long-term care facilities (LTCF). To address this shortage, CarePredict introduced sensor-laden wearables that utilize machine learning to analyze residents' behavior and activity within LTCFs. The wearable detects changes in activity and behavior to predict the risk of falls, depression, or urinary tract infections (UTIs), allowing caregivers to provide proactive interventions and improve patient health. This study aims to enhance activity monitoring by more precisely classifying bathroom activities. We demonstrate a proof-of-concept study to differentiate hand washing from teeth brushing using humidity, accelerometer, and gyroscope (IMU) data from the CarePredict wearable Tempo with machine learning and signal processing algorithms. Precisely classifying these events is key to early detection of behavioral changes, enabling predictive medicine, particularly for cognitive decline and hygiene-related conditions.

Abstract Title: Neural Network Based Ray Tracing on a Digital Twin for Performance Approximation Using Parameter Analysis

Program: Electrical Engineering

Accurately estimating received power in wireless networks is essential for optimizing signal quality, coverage, capacity, and managing interference. This paper introduces a method that combines machine learning with ray tracing simulations in a digital twin environment to approximate performance in wireless systems. Using MATLAB and OpenStreetMap, data on various ray types: line of sight, reflected, refracted, and diffracted is gathered across different transmitter-receiver setups. Key features, like propagation delay, path loss, propagation distance, phase shift, number of interaction and receiver position, are fed into a multilayer neural network to predict received power. By integrating clustering techniques, this approach enhances prediction accuracy and reduces signal estimate errors, outperforming traditional models. Experimental results show the neural network’s superior accuracy and efficiency, supporting real-time optimization in complex urban environments.

Abstract Title: Assessment of Parastronauts’ Ingress and Egress of Lockheed Martin's Orion and Boeing CST-100 Starliner

Program: Education, Health, & Behavior Studies

This preliminary study sought to observe individuals with disabilities during a spacecraft's ingress and egress procedures. This study recruited fully abled individuals (control group) and leg amputees (TPWD, experimental group). Data about various kinematic gait variables were collected. The results found that the TPWD could egress the capsule environments in under fifty seconds, however comparatively longer than the control group. Additionally, it was found that the TPWD population, on average, used more balancing mechanisms during their ingress and egress procedure. Finally, video analysis of the seat egress and capsule transit revealed that TPWD used handholds differently than their able-bodied peers. These differences are related to the balance differences in balance strategies between the two groupings in this study. Slight differences in their mobility sequencing are noted; however, it is also noted that the TPWDs could complete each of the tasks asked at acceptable times.

Abstract Title: Synthesis of Diepoxy Monomers from Cyclobutane Precursors via Epichlorohydrin Reaction

Program: Chemistry

Epoxy resins are widely used thermoset materials known for their thermal stability, solvent resistance, and excellent mechanical properties, making them ideal for coatings, adhesives, and other applications. In this study, CBDA-1 (2,4-diphenylcyclobutane-1,3-dicarboxylic acid) and CBDA-2 (3,4-di-2-furanyl-1,2-cyclobutanedicarboxylic acid) were converted into their respective dihalohydrin and diepoxy monomers through a reaction with epichlorohydrin, using tetrabutylammonium bromide or fluoride as catalysts. The reflux process at 75°C enabled the SN2 conversion of dihalohydrin into the diepoxy monomer upon the addition of a strong base. This strategy was successfully applied to multiple precursors, yielding a series of cyclobutane-based diepoxy monomers. The results highlight an efficient approach for synthesizing novel diepoxy monomers, offering promising applications in sustainable coatings and high-performance composite materials.

Abstract Title: The Role of Bile Acids in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Program: Biomedical Sciences

Infections caused by harmful strains of Escherichia coli can lead to severe illness. The gut is constantly exposed to substances from both the body and bacteria, including bile acids (BA), which help digest fats and regulate the immune system. Recent studies suggest that BA plays a crucial role in gut health, but the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Using a mouse model of colitis, we found that reducing BA levels through a special diet worsened inflammation, impaired the body's ability to remove damaged cells, and increased disease severity. Further analysis showed that blocking BA signaling led to increased activation of genes linked to harmful cell death in the gut. These findings suggest that people taking cholesterol-lowering medications that reduce BA such as cholestyramine may experience worsened colitis. Understanding BA’s role in gut health could lead to better treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and related conditions.

Abstract Title: Grow as A Coach: The Initial Attempt of Teaching Styles within SEM

Program: Education, Health, & Behavior Studies

This study critically examines how integrating three teaching styles—reciprocal, learner-designed individual program, and learner-initiated—within the Sport Education (SE) model influences skill development and engagement in college-level physical education. Participants were undergraduate students enrolled in individual and team sports courses, meeting three times per week for 50-minute sessions over eight weeks. All team practices were video and audio-recorded for detailed analysis of teaching style effectiveness. By leveraging structured scaffolding tools—including question sheets, triadic communication, and criteria sheets—this study supports student coaches in planning, implementing, and assessing training sessions, reducing instructional limitations. Findings reveal that incorporating diverse teaching styles within SE fosters a positive learning environment, enhances student initiative, facilitates content knowledge progression, and strengthens peer support. This research highlights the potential of blending SE with the Spectrum of Teaching Styles to optimize student-led instruction and engagement in physical education.

Abstract Title: Evaluating the Impact of Trunnion and Tridem Axle Configurations on North Dakota’s Flexible Pavements Using 3D Finite Element Method

Program: Civil Engineering

This study examines and compares the impact of trunnion and tridem axle load configurations on North Dakota’s flexible pavement systems. The Abaqus three-dimensional finite element (3D FE) method was used to simulate axle loadings of trunnion and tridem configurations over 3- and 6-inch asphalt concrete (AC) layers. Pavement responses in the form of strains, stresses, and displacements under 60-kip load of each configuration were obtained from the 3D FEM model and then analyzed and validated. Results of this study indicate that the trunnion axle configuration caused lower tensile strains, lower stresses, and lower displacements than the tridem axle configuration for both AC layers and the 60-kip loading. Overall, the trunnion configuration imposed a lower impact on the pavement of any thickness compared to the tridem configuration due to spreading the load over more tires. The lower impact of trunnion configurations suggests potential for wider use on North Dakota’s pavements.

Abstract Title: Understanding College Students' Reactions to Peer Mental Distress: Demographic Differences in Dismissive Responses

Program: Counseling Psychology

Although mental health disorders are highly prevalent among college students, most college students do not seek professional help for mental health concerns. When students do seek help, they are more likely to turn to peers rather than mental health professionals. Accordingly, college students are in a unique position to provide support and assistance to distressed peers in seeking professional mental health services. Despite this potential, little research has examined how college students respond to the mental distress of their peers. This study aimed to examine what factors influence dismissive responses to peer mental distress among college students. Our findings revealed significant differences in these responses by both gender and sexual orientation.  

Abstract Title: Telehealth Effectiveness in Rural Communities Post-COVID-19

Program: Public Health

The COVID-19 pandemic rapidly accelerated telehealth adoption, particularly in rural communities where healthcare access was historically limited. This study examines the effectiveness, accessibility, and long-term sustainability of telehealth services in these regions post-pandemic. Through a comprehensive literature review and thematic analysis of peer-reviewed studies, government reports, and case studies, this project identifies key facilitators and barriers influencing telehealth adoption. The research explores evolving patient and provider perceptions, policy changes that shaped telehealth expansion, and the ongoing technological and regulatory challenges. Findings will inform policy recommendations to enhance telehealth infrastructure and address disparities in broadband access, reimbursement policies, and service integration. The project’s deliverables include a written report and presentation to public health stakeholders, with potential submission to a peer-reviewed journal. By synthesizing lessons from the pandemic, this study aims to support sustainable telehealth models that improve healthcare access, health outcomes, and equity in underserved rural populations.

Abstract Title: Geothermal Sweep Efficiency Enhancement Potential Using Geological Modeling and Numerical Simulation on Unconventional Deadwood Formation

Program: Geological Engineering

This study uses geological modeling and numerical simulation to predict and evaluate the sweep efficiency of heat from the Deadwood Formation geothermal reservoir when a bio-polymer supplement is injected in the Formation. Fractures from previous oil and gas operations cause severe channeling, and bio-polymer gels are investigated as a solution to improve heat recovery. A geological model was developed based on structural geology and fracture profiles from five wells in the Williston Basin. Bottom-hole-temperature data (160°C) and laboratory findings were incorporated to upscale the model into a numerical simulation. Anticipated results are that the bio-polymer gel expands heat flow streamlines, increasing heat extraction by 5–10% in low-permeability zones (<10 md) while minimizing pressure depletion. It is also anticipated that the biopolymer blocks conductive fractures, redirecting flow through less conductive pathways. This innovative approach, validated by advanced modeling tools, provides insights into geothermal energy optimization contributing to energy transition.

Abstract Title: Exploring Impacts of Multigenerational Historical Trauma on Indigenous Academic Outcomes

Program: Counseling Psychology

The proposed study aims to explore how multigenerational historical trauma impacts academic outcomes for K-12 Lakota students. The proposed study also serves to fill a gap in current literature on North American Indigenous research. The proposed study will use separate semi structured interviews for K-12 Lakota students to examine their experiences related to the research topic. Using content and narrative analyses, researchers will transcribe interviews and analyze its content for themes and patterns. Researchers will then conduct cross comparisons to compare school experiences and academic outcomes of Indigenous K-12 students, and its relation to multigenerational historical trauma. Expected results of the study include themes of low academic retention, and motivation, and feelings of unsafety at school, increased anxiety, and experiences of racism. The implications of the proposed study may improve the cultural knowledge and awareness in educators and clinicians by identifying any educational gaps and improving the learning experience of Indigenous students.

Abstract Title: Healing Through Nature: The Impact of Nature-Based Activities on Multililingual Students

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

Multilingual (ML) students often face linguistic and academic challenges in traditional classroom settings. Many arrive in their new country carrying the weight of trauma from their home country or from their journey, which can impact their ability to learn and adapt. Incorporating nature-based learning into their education  provides an opportunity to foster both language development and overall well-being. This study explores how engaging ML students in hands-on, nature-based activities can enhance second language acquisition by reducing anxiety and increasing engagement. Learning in natural environments allows students to practice language skills in meaningful, low-stress settings, making learning more accessible and enjoyable. Furthermore, nature-based activities promote social interaction, helping multilingual students build connections and develop confidence in their learning abilities. By creating opportunities to connect with their environment, educators can support both linguistic growth and emotional resilience, leading to more effective and inclusive language learning experiences. 

Abstract Title: Tiny Columns, Big Promises: Predicting Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Removal Using Rapid Small Scale Column Tests 

Program: Civil Engineering

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used due to their chemical stability but pose environmental and health risks. Bench-scale ion exchange (IX) resin testing uses rapid small-scale column tests (RSSCTs), where adsorbents are ground to downscale full-scale columns and predict removal performance. However, inconsistencies in grinding techniques can affect RSSCT accuracy. This study investigates (i) the effects of IX resin grinding on PFAS adsorption, (ii) how material preparation influences prediction accuracy, and (iii) the impact of background water quality. Results showed variability across grinding methods for perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA) breakthrough bed volumes (BV50): 2,000 BV (jet milling), 2,700 BV (ball milling), 2,800 BV (blending), 3,000 BV (freeze-drying and blending), and 4,000 BV (mortar and pestle). Pilot-scale testing for PFBA reached BV50 at 3,100 BVs, with freeze-drying and blending best predicting performance. These findings highlight material preparation’s influence on RSSCT accuracy, with further insights to be presented.

Abstract Title: Characterization of Novel Perovskite Materials

Program: Physics

Recently, catalyst materials have become ubiquitous in their applications and uses, from improving reaction efficiency to facilitating novel synthesis processes and their roles in waste abatement. This broad utility calls for the development of new, available, non-toxic, and efficient catalysts. The main goal of our research is to study how changing Mn concentration affects the performance of perovskite-oxides for oxygen evolution reaction. To correlate the performance of perovskite-oxides with their physical and chemical properties, we investigated them using techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM). With these techniques, we were able to confirm the successful synthesis of the target perovskite compounds. Additionally, by using techniques such as Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) we were able to analyze the composition and oxidation states of our synthesized materials. 

Abstract Title: Synthesis of Alternating Amphiphilic Polyesters: Ring-Opening Co-Polymerization of PEG-Functionalized Epoxides and Cyclic Anhydrides for Polymeric Micelle Formation.

Program: Chemistry

Polymeric micelles have garnered substantial attention as a potential drug delivery system due to their distinctive core-shell architecture. This arrangement allows them to dissolve in water while providing a hydrophobic core that effectively facilitates the transport of hydrophobic drugs. In this research, amphiphilic polyesters were synthesized via a ring-opening copolymerization method. The resulting polyesters were characterized by using techniques such as 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FT-IR, and GPC analyses. The amphiphiles organized themselves in water to form micelles. In contrast, when placed in a nonpolar solvent, they assembled into reverse micelles. The self-assembly behavior of polymeric micelles was examined through fluorescence spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering (DLS). DLS revealed that the size of these micelles fell within the nanometer scale, ranging from 13.69 to 60.4 nm. 

Abstract Title: Development of Biomedical Hydrogels: A Two-Step Approach to Thiol-Ene Clickable PEG-Based Polyester Copolymers

Program: Chemistry

Hydrogels, crosslinked polymeric networks, are crucial in biomedical applications like drug delivery, sensor technology, and tissue engineering. A well-defined poly(ethylene glycol)-functionalized polyester copolymer with high olefinic content was synthesized through ring-opening copolymerization of maleic anhydride, propylene oxide, and PEG-functionalized epoxides. This copolymer enables crosslinking via Michael-type thiol-ene reaction with thiol-modified monomers. Characterization via GPC and 1H NMR revealed the copolymer's branched  structure, molecular weight, and olefinic content. Its lower critical solution temperature, near body temperature, facilitates rapid thermal gelation at 37°C. SEM analysis confirmed network formation with a porous structure. This hybrid hydrogel system holds great potential as a novel biomaterial for tissue engineering applications.

Abstract Title: SEISMIC DESIGN AND DUCTILITY EVALUATION OF CONCRETE-FILLED THIN-WALLED STEEL BOX COLUMNS MODELING BRIDGE PIERS

Program: Civil Engineering

Concrete filled-steel tabular (CFST) columns are widely employed in engineering applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, superior seismic performance, characterized by high strength, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity. However, local and global buckling can significantly compromise their seismic behavior when subjected to severe ground motions. This study investigates the seismic design and performance of thin-walled steel box columns under dynamic loading, by employing the Kobe earthquake as an input seismic excitation. The authors conducted a detailed 3D nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA) using commercial software ABAQUS incorporated advanced material models, including multilinear kinematic hardening and two-surface hardening for steel, as well as the concrete damage plasticity model for concrete. Key parameters including axial load ratio, cross-sectional geometry, and material properties are examined. To capture realistic seismic effects, earthquake loading was applied in both unidirectional and bidirectional directions. Critical failure mechanisms, such as local buckling, global buckling, and their interaction, were identified and analyzed. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: PRIVACY-FOCUSED SMART DEVICE FOR NON-INVASIVE BATHROOM ACTIVITY DETECTION AND HEALTH MONITORING  

Program: Biomedical Engineering

This project presents a privacy-preserving automated bathroom activity labeling system for wearable healthcare devices. It eliminates the invasive and time-consuming task of manual event labeling, ensuring accurate training data for machine learning models in elderly care and preventive health monitoring. The system integrates non-invasive sensors—SHT40 (temperature/humidity), US-100 (ultrasonic), and LD2450 (radar tracking)—with an ESP32 microcontroller, processing data locally before securely transmitting it to an AWS cloud database. Strategic sensor placement enhances activity recognition and geolocation accuracy. Preliminary results indicate over 90% accuracy in labeling handwashing events, improving predictive health analytics and proactive care. This innovation advances ambient assisted living, smart home hygiene, and health monitoring. By automating data collection, it enhances wearable device applications like the CarePredict Tempo, paving the way for sophisticated machine learning models in predictive and preventive healthcare.

Abstract Title: Keratin 6 and SOX2 Regulate Growth, Stemness, Basal/Squamous Expression, and Chemotherapy Response in Muscle-Invasive Urothelial Carcinoma

Program: Clinical Translational Science

Urothelial carcinoma (UC), a common global malignancy, is strongly linked to arsenic exposure. Muscle-invasive UC (MIUC), characterized by high aggression and poor prognosis, accounts for 25% of UC cases and often acquires chemoresistance, particularly in squamous-differentiated (SD) tumors. Basal MIUC, a more aggressive subtype, shows an enriched expression of basal keratins (KRT1, 5, 6, 14, 16). Using arsenite-transformed UROtsa cells, a model of basal MIUC with SD, this study investigated the roles of KRT6 and SOX2 in basal/squamous expression, growth, migration, and cisplatin sensitivity. Stable lentiviral knockdown of KRT6 or SOX2 reduced basal keratin expression, proliferation, colony formation, and migration while enhancing cisplatin sensitivity. SOX2 knockdown further attenuated cell migration. These findings highlight the critical roles of KRT6 and SOX2 in basal MIUC pathobiology. Future in vivo studies are needed to validate their impact on tumor growth, SD, invasion, and chemotherapy response.

Abstract Title: Wild Bee Groups Have Different Associations to Surrounding Land Cover Types in North Dakota

Program: Earth System Science & Policy

Wild bees are important as they provide pollination services and maintain native plant communities. Wild bees are diverse having different foraging distances, nesting requirements and floral-resource requirements. One of the major threats to wild bees is land use change, which causes the loss of natural areas that many wild bees rely on for the diverse nesting and floral resources they require. These natural areas are often highly fragmented and are subject to adverse effects of surrounding cropland, such as pesticides, which can weaken or kill bees. Despite such adverse effects, certain wild bees may gather some benefit from cropland while other bees with different traits and requirements may not.  We investigated the relationships between grassland bees to the proportions of surrounding natural/semi-natural landcover and cropland.

Abstract Title: Perceptions of Work Environment Across Time Among Early Career Latiné Engineers

Program: Counseling Psychology

Among 2010-2013 engineering graduates, more graduates from underrepresented racial/ethnic groups were employed in non-science or non-engineering jobs (33.7%) in 2015, in contrast to White graduates (14.1%; NCSES, 2017). More research is needed to understand the cultural and environmental factors that influence persistence decisions during the early career stages among URM in engineering. From 2020-2024, we collected data via an online platform from a group of early career engineers who identified as Latine/Hispanic via an annual survey (n = 408). In this presentation, we will report responses across 3 time periods approximately 1 year apart on environmental resources measures. We will examine differences in Latine engineers’ responses across time, and compare these patterns across gender groups and racial diversity in the workplace. Implications of the findings include enhancing the work experiences of Latine engineers and developing policies to create positive work environments for culturally diverse engineers will be discussed. 

Abstract Title: EQUITY IN GRADING PRACTICES: ADDRESSING SYSTEMIC BARRIERS IN UNDERGRADUATE CHEMISTRY EDUCATION

Program: Chemistry

Grading practices are a critical aspect of education, shaping students' academic outcomes and trajectories. However, traditional grading systems in STEM education, particularly in chemistry, often fail to accommodate diverse learning styles and disproportionately disadvantage underrepresented groups. Implicit biases in faculty grading decisions and a reliance on algorithmic problem-solving exacerbate these systemic inequities, contributing to persistent barriers for marginalized students. This literature review synthesizes existing research to explore the intersection of grading practices, equity, and inclusion in undergraduate chemistry education. The review highlights key themes, including the role of implicit biases in perpetuating inequities, the limitations of traditional grading systems, and the potential of alternative frameworks such as mastery-based grading and three-dimensional (3D) learning assessments to foster inclusivity. Additionally, it examines student perceptions of fairness and the broader impact of grading practices on motivation and academic success. This work aligns with calls for evidence-based practices to address systemic barriers in STEM education. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Fly Ash Nanoparticle Thesis

Program: Petroleum Engineering

In todays world there is a steady inclination and growth in low carbon emission sources and adequate water consumption techniques to match today’s energy requirement thereby reducing the greenhouse effect. This creates immediate necessity to increase natural gas production from unconventional gas reservoirs given the abundance of water resources. Fracturing performs critical roles in effectively increasing the optimal recovery from unconventional shale gas reservoirs. There are other fracking technologies used to frack the shale such as, hydraulic fracturing, nitrogen-based fracturing, high-energy gas fracturing (HEGF), supercritical carbon dioxide fracturing (Sc-CO2), plasma fracturing, etc. Sc-CO2 fracking regards the least use of water and is capable of creating complex multi orthogonal fractures with a viscosity like that of gas permeable to tight formations. It also has the unique properties of liquid-like density with the absence of capillary force, and good miscible characteristics with hydrocarbons. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: TEACHER EDUCATION AND TEACHING IN DIVERSE EARLY CHILDHOOD SETTINGS

Program: Teaching & Leadership

Early childhood education is a formative stage that encompasses diverse learners, all entitled to quality education regardless of their individual differences. Given this, the teaching profession must ensure effective teaching and learning practices in all early childhood education settings. However, substantial evidence indicates that diversity in the classroom presents considerable challenges to providing effective instruction for all children. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize teacher education and professional development to equip educators with the necessary competencies for addressing these challenges. While previous research has explored issues related to learner diversity, social justice, and educational equity, there has been limited focus on teacher preparation for diverse children within early childhood education, which serves as the foundation for all subsequent learning. This poster addresses this gap through a comprehensive review of current literature and the future research steps needed to better prepare preservice teachers for teaching in early childhood education settings.

Abstract Title: The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) on Confidence, Motivation, and self-esteem in College Athletes 

Program: Counseling Psychology

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have a profound impact on the psychological development of individuals, influencing their confidence, motivation, and self-esteem. This study will investigate how ACEs specifically affect college athletes, a group often under immense physical and psychological pressure. Athletes who have experienced childhood trauma may face challenges in maintaining self-confidence and motivation, which can hinder their performance and overall well-being. The effects of ACEs can manifest as difficulties in emotional regulation, negative self-perception, and a lack of drive, potentially leading to burnout or underperformance. This research aims to explore how ACEs influence these key psychological traits in the context of college athletics, examining both the negative outcomes and potential resilience factors. By understanding the intersection of early trauma and athletic development, the study seeks to inform strategies that foster mental health support, enhance self-esteem, and improve overall athletic achievement for college athletes facing the effects of ACEs.

Abstract Title: Bathroom Activity Logging in a Mobile App: Foundation for a RAG-Based Health and Hygiene Recommender System 

Program: Biomedical Engineering

This study presents a mobile application for tracking personal hygiene activities, including urination, hand washing, tooth brushing, showering, and toileting. Built with Flutter and Supabase, the app features an event logging interface and a historical log viewer. The system is designed to support a Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG)-based health recommender system that analyzes activity patterns to generate personalized health insights, such as early detection of urinary tract infections. To protect user privacy, data processing occurs locally on a Raspberry Pi using Ollama for RAG deployment. The initial cloud-based MVP uses ChatGPT 3.5 Turbo to validate system functionality. The project showcases how mobile applications combined with edge AI and privacy-preserving computing can promote healthy behaviors and personalized health management. Future developments will focus on improving recommendation algorithms, expanding activity tracking capabilities, and conducting user studies to assess system's effectiveness.

Abstract Title: Simulating Glacier Evolution and Response to Climate Change in Torrey Creek Basin Wind River Range

Program: Earth System Science & Policy

Glaciers and snowpacks act as natural water reservoirs, storing approximately 75% of the Earth's freshwater and sustaining ecosystems by gradually releasing water, particularly during the summer season. In arid and semi-arid regions like Wyoming’s Wind River Range (WRR), glaciers and snowmelt contribute over 90% of summer surface freshwater. However, rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns have led to widespread glacier shrinkage, threatening water availability. This study examines historical and projected glacier evolution in the Torrey Creek Basin, WRR, under precipitation, rising temperature, and climate scenario SSP1-2.6. Preliminary results indicate fluctuations in glacier size between 1966 and 2000, followed by rapid decline from 2000 to 2019, with continued retreat projected through 2050. Understanding these trends is crucial for predicting future freshwater availability and informing sustainable adaptation strategies in glacier meltwater-dependent regions

Abstract Title: A Multi-Technique Investigation of Polyaromatic Hydrocarbon Formation During HTPB Pyrolysis

Program: Chemistry

This study investigates the formation of harmful Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) during the combustion of Hydroxyl-terminated Polybutadiene (HTPB) with Ammonium Perchlorate (AP), crucial components in solid rocket propellants. Using molecular beam time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MB-TOFMS), evolved gas analysis (EGA), and pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Pyr-GC-MS), the research explores the mechanisms and timescales of PAH formation. Results indicate that cyclic C6 intermediates, like benzene, are PAH precursors, with PAH growth involving hydrogenation and dehydrogenation. Rapid initial PAH formation is observed across different timescales. Crucially, AP significantly influences the reaction pathway, leading to PAHs up to 240-260 g/mol, challenging current understanding. These findings offer valuable insights for developing mitigation strategies, including alternative propellants and advanced combustion technologies, to reduce the environmental impact of rocket propulsion while preserving national security.

Abstract Title: Synthesis of Poly (silyl ether)s as Potential Drug Delivery Systems for Cancer Therapy 

Program: Chemistry

Cancer research has long sought pH-sensitive polymers capable of degrading under the mildly acidic conditions of cancerous tissues (pH ~6.4). This study focuses on synthesizing poly (silyl ethers) (PSEs) as a drug delivery system for controlled release within cancer cells. PSEs are synthesized using poly (ethylene glycol)-200 (PEG-200) and six dihydro silanes; 1,4 bis(dimethyl silyl) benzene, methyl phenyl silane, diphenyl silane, 1-naphthyl phenyl silane, 1,1,3,3 Tetramethyl disiloxane and 1,1,3,3,6,6 hexamethyl trisiloxane taking advantage of the proven biocompatibility nature of PEG-200. These polymers exhibit low hydrolytic stability due to labile silyl ether (Si–O–C) linkages. Upon hydrolysis, they yield silanols and alcohols, which are relatively non-toxic and do not significantly alter the surrounding pH, making them highly suitable for biomedical applications. Given these attributes, PSEs present a promising approach for the development of degradable polymeric networks in targeted cancer therapy.

Abstract Title: Fishbone Drilling Technology, a Viable Alternative to Hydraulic Fracturing? 

Program: Petroleum Engineering

Fishbone wells offer a highly effective and environmentally friendly alternative to hydraulic fracking, with impressive productivity gains. However, a detailed economic analysis is needed to justify its adoption, particularly in unconventional formations, and to inform operators' decisions on the most cost-effective technology. This study employed predictive models to forecast production rates from fishbone wells and hydraulic stimulation. Specifically, the model developed by Ojo I. and Fadairo A. (2024) was used for fishbone wells, while that of B. Guo and D. S. Schechter (1997) was applied to hydraulic stimulation. Furthermore, an economic analysis was conducted to compare the viability of fishbone wells to hydraulic fracturing, utilizing data from B. Guo and D. S. Schechter (1997). In conclusion, the results of the comparative analysis, key observations, and derived conclusions are comprehensively presented and documented within this study, providing a thorough and detailed account of the findings.

Abstract Title: Leptin as a Pluripotent hormone—Cortical neural stem cells display differential responses to the leptin hormone

Program: Biology

Leptin is a hormone produced by fat cells that regulates metabolism and triggers the satiety response. It plays a role in balancing energy stores, caloric intake, immune response, fertility, and muscle health. We investigate the role of leptin receptors in cell fate determination in the developing mammalian cortex, an area where little is known about leptin's impact on neural development. We analyzed leptin receptor expression in the mouse cortex during critical developmental stages (E11.5-E15.5). Our immunolabeling revealed leptin receptors in neural stem cells along the ventricular zone and near developing cortical blood vessels at E13.5, as well as in the choroid plexus. In vitro studies showed that primary neural stem cells respond to leptin with differentiation into neural and glial lineages and increased proliferation. Our model suggests that leptin receptors may influence cell fate by linking gene expression changes during early cortical development.

Abstract Title: Investigating the impact of Microlearning on Learning Retention

Program: Education, Health, & Behavior Studies

This study investigated the impact of microlearning on learning retention in an experimental study using two topics that were part of a company’s training modules, with 186 participants. Each of the topics was designed in microlearning and traditional formats. For the first topic, the experimental group (MT) received instruction in microlearning format, while the control group (TM) received instruction in the traditional format. For the second topic, the order the groups received instruction was reversed. Both MT and TM groups received same post-tests on each topic. Comparison of the average post-test scores of microlearning and traditional formats using independent sample t-tests showed no significant difference in learning retention between them in both topics. Regression analysis showed Motivation and Ease of understanding were significant predictors of learning retention in Microlearning. Also, Learning time efficiency minimally mediated the effect of “Ease of understanding” on  learning retention. Gender, qualification and work experience were not significant predictors of learning retention. 

Abstract Title: Catalytic production of hydrogen- rich gas from Algae biomass-plastic (Polyethylene) via gasification in a fluidized bed reactor

Program: Energy Engineering

The catalytic co-gasification of algae biomass and polyethylene offers a sustainable route for hydrogen-rich gas production. This study investigates the process in a fluidized bed reactor, analyzing feedstock ratios and catalyst effects. Algae biomass, rich in volatiles and oxygen, synergizes with polyethylene’s high carbon content, enhancing gasification efficiency. A 2:1 biomass-to-polyethylene ratio optimizes hydrogen yield, while a sacrificial tire ash-CeO₂ catalyst (1:2) improves reactivity, reduces tar, and increases hydrogen output. At 1000°C, H₂ yields reached 96 dry gas yield/m³/kg with a catalyst, achieving 85% hydrogen composition. Steam gasification enhanced H₂ production via water-gas shift reactions, while air-steam mixtures balanced efficiency and yield. Energy and exergy analyses identified irreversibilities, guiding process optimization. Findings highlight the impact of catalyst composition, gasifying agents, and feedstock ratios on hydrogen yield, contributing to sustainable and efficient hydrogen production from biomass-plastic blends.

Abstract Title: Dopaminergic Modulations in the Dentate Gyrus and at Hippocampal Synapses

Program: Biomedical Sciences

Dopamine is a neuromodulator involved in motivation, reward, and memory. Dopaminergic projections from the locus coeruleus terminate in the dentate gyrus (DG). Dopamine imbalances in the DG result in depression and memory deficits. Although the D1 receptors (D1Rs) are robustly expressed within the DG, the signaling and ionic mechanisms through which they affect the neurons of the DG remains undetermined. Using whole-cell patch clamp recording, we demonstrated that application of a D1 agonist produced significant depolarization and increased action potential firing in the DG GCs. D1-mediated depolarization was dependent on the activation of adenylate cyclase and protein kinase A. Further experiments demonstrated that inhibition of the KATP channels decreased D1-induced depolarization, suggesting the involvement of the KATP channels. Studying the effects of the D1Rs at hippocampal synapses showed that activation of the D1Rs augmented glutamatergic transmission. Our findings suggest the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the D1Rs in the DG.

Abstract Title: Using TinyLev acoustic levitator at low temperatures to generate atmospheric ice crystals (obstacles to hypersonic flights)

Program: Mechanical Engineering

Atmospheric clouds contain supercooled water droplets, frozen droplets, and ice crystals ranging in size from a few nanometers to hundreds of micrometers. These elements form crystal chain aggregates of varying lengths, though their aggregation process remains unknown. Hypersonic flights, which travel at speeds at least five times faster than sound, gain excessive momentum. As a result, tiny atmospheric ice crystal aggregates can cause damage to the vehicle’s nose cone and exterior. However, these atmospheric ice crystals are not well studied and require advanced laboratory facilities for analysis. At the Aerosol Engineering Lab at UND, atmospheric ice crystals are generated using a TinyLev acoustic levitator combined with liquid nitrogen (N₂). These ice crystals are produced to drop in front of the shockwave (inside Purdue’s 3-inch shock tube) to study their behavior in a hypersonic environment. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of climate science and global atmospheric models.

Abstract Title: Evaluating the Performance of Rutting Tests for North Dakota’s Mixtures Containing Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement 

Program: Civil Engineering

Rutting in asphalt pavements poses safety risks and increases rehabilitation costs. The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) uses the Hamburg Wheel Track Testing (HWTT) to assess rutting. The dynamic modulus (|E*|), flow number (FN), and incremental repeated load permanent deformation (iRLPD) tests can substitute HWTT while providing data for mechanistic-empirical modeling. This study evaluated these tests as alternatives to HWTT. Comparing rutting test parameters with field data is crucial but challenging. HWTT rut depths were substituted with field observations and compared to iRLPD predictions. Results showed |E*| at certain conditions differed from FN, iRLPD, and HWTT, requiring further study. FN and iRLPD strongly correlated with HWTT, suggesting their potential as substitutes. Mixture rankings revealed key factors like binder grade, gradation, and RAP content were detected. A weak correlation between predicted and HWTT rut depths highlighted the need for further investigation into traffic loading and mixture aging.

Abstract Title: The Impact of Racism and Heterosexism on BIPOC LGBTQ+ Individuals’ Response to Sexual Violence

Program: Counseling Psychology

This qualitative study proposes to explore how BIPOC LGBTQ+ survivors’ experiences with racism and heterosexism impact their response to sexual violence and coping. While there is research that focuses on the experiences of sexual violence within minoritized communities, there is little literature examining the intersectional experiences of BIPOC LGBTQ+ survivors and the impact of oppression and discrimination on their ability to cope with trauma. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with 7-12 BIPOC LGBTQ+ adult survivors of sexual violence. Using thematic analysis, this study will examine themes related to after-effects of trauma, available supports, help-seeking behaviors, and coping, thus furthering the understanding of the impact of intersecting forms of oppression and discrimination on their mental health and well-being. The findings of this study may be disseminated through peer-reviewed academic journals and conference presentations, and used to inform mental health practices and develop policies and resources available to this population.

Abstract Title: Building UND's bistatic space radar and using AI/ML to enhance radar sensitivity 

Program: Computer Science

I am Vig Parameshwar, a first-year PhD student in Computer Science at SEECS, working with Sajib Kapali and Dr. Ryan Adams. Our research involves developing the first academic radar in North Dakota for space applications to improve space domain awareness by tracking satellites and debris in low Earth orbit. We are constructing and testing two radar systems—a parabolic and a phased array—on UND campus. I drafted the project plan and created a presentation outlining recommended components for procurement, considering performance and return on investment. Next, I will conduct a literature review on ground-based radars, identify U.S. regulatory requirements, manage project tasks and develop a GUI for radar control. My goal is to collect data and apply AI/ML techniques to enhance radar sensitivity for detecting smaller objects. This project advances research, provides industry training for UND students and contributes to global space monitoring efforts.

Abstract Title: Synthesis of Poly(silyl ether-ester)s as Potential Drug Delivery Systems and Bioimaging Agents

Program: Chemistry

Poly(silyl ether-ester)s (PSEEs) are an exciting class of silicon-containing polymers that have their distinctive structure and properties. This study presents the synthesis and characterization of PSEE polymers, focusing on their potential application in the development of nanoparticles for drug delivery and bioimaging. The polymers were synthesized via ring-opening reduction polymerization of cyclic anhydrides with dihydrosilanes. The successful formation of PSEs was confirmed by distinct proton and carbon signals observed in NMR spectra, supported by molecular weight distributions obtained from GPC analysis. Key findings include the scalability of the synthesis process, with controlled variations in polymer and nanoparticle synthesis parameters influencing particle size and distribution. 

Abstract Title:   The Role of Resilience: A SEM Examination of Sleep, Organizational Support, and Crew Cohesion on Psychological Distress in Firefighters

Program: Counseling Psychology

Firefighting is a demanding profession that exposes individuals to high stress, trauma, and disrupted sleep, contributing to psychological distress and burnout. This study examines the protective roles of sleep quality, organizational support, and crew cohesion in reducing psychological distress, defined through depression, anxiety, stress, and burnout (exhaustion and disengagement). Resilience will be explored as a mediating factor, with trait-based resilience controlled for while examining the role of process-based resilience in buffering against psychological distress. Using a longitudinal survey design, data will be collected from career firefighters with at least one year of experience at two time points separated by six months. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) will analyze relationships between construct variables. Findings will inform fire departments on strategies to enhance firefighter well-being by improving resilience, sleep, and workplace support. Results will be reported at the group level, ensuring confidentiality, with department-specific insights provided for participating agencies.

Abstract Title: The Impact of Sensory Sensitivity on Nutritional Outcomes in Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Program: Nutrition

Background/Objective: Children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are at increased risk for malnutrition due to restrictive dietary patterns and behavioral challenges. Heightened sensory sensitivity, common in these disorders, may be a contributing factor. This review examines the relationship between sensory sensitivity and nutritional status, food preferences, and eating behaviors in this population. Methods: A literature search was conducted using Google Scholar, PubMed, and CINAHL, focusing on original studies examining the relationship between sensory sensitivity, food selectivity, and nutritional outcomes in children with NDDs. Results: Both qualitative and quantitative evidence indicate that sensory sensitivity negatively impacts dietary intake in individuals with NDDs, leading to nutrient deficiencies, atypical eating patterns, and food selectivity. Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for targeted nutritional interventions, such as gradual food exposure, sensory-based feeding therapies, and parent-caregiver education to reduce nutrient deficiencies and address feeding issues, improving the overall health of this population.

Abstract Title: Role of organellar stress responses in BACE-1 inhibitor drugs-induced neurotoxicity

Program: Biomedical Sciences

In Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology, Amyloid beta precursor protein (AβPP) cleaving enzyme-1 (BACE-1) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the production of Aβ proteins. BACE-1 inhibitor drugs reduce Aβ levels but have neurotoxic effects by unclear mechanisms. BACE-1 resides in endolysosomes which contain stores of ferrous iron (Fe2+) sufficient to cause insult-induced increases in intracellular Fe2+, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell death. Therefore, we investigated the effects of BACE-1 inhibitor drugs using SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells and clinically relevant concentrations of 3 BACE-1 inhibitors and 2 non-BACE-1 anti-AD drugs. The BACE-1 inhibitor drugs but not the non-BACE-1 anti-AD drugs de-acidified endolysosomes, decreased endolysosome Fe2+ levels, increased cytosolic Fe2+ and ROS levels, increased mitochondrial Fe2+ and ROS levels, and depolarized mitochondrial membranes. The neurotoxic effects of BACE-1 inhibitor drugs were blocked by the endocytosed endolysosome Fe2+ chelator deferoxamine; emphasizing the importance of endolysosome Fe2+ in development of new therapeutics against AD. 

Abstract Title: Addressing Imposter Syndrome in Academia: A Mixed-Methods Study on Faculty Experience

Program: Education, Health, & Behavior Studies

While Imposter Syndrome (IS) has been widely studied in students and early-career professionals, there is limited research on how it affects faculty members, particularly concerning tenure status, race, ethnicity, and long-term career progression. This mixed-methods study investigates if IS varies based on tenure status and demographics (e.g., Underrepresented Minority (URM) vs. non-URM), and how IS is related to faculty motivation and research success. A quantitative survey of 595 faculty measured imposter syndrome, job status, demographics, motivation, and self-reported success. Using t-tests, we expect pre-tenure and URM faculty to report higher IS, with IS negatively correlating with adaptive motivation and faculty success. Findings will contribute to developing targeted institutional policies and faculty support mechanisms to foster professional confidence and career advancement.

Abstract Title: Exploring the Feasibility of Head-Tracking Data for Cybersickness Prediction in Virtual Reality

Program: Computer Science

Cybersickness remains a significant barrier to the widespread adoption of virtual reality (VR) technology. Traditional methods for predicting cybersickness rely on self-reported questionnaires or physiological signals from specialized sensors, which have their limitations. This study explores the potential of using real-time, easily acquired head-tracking data (HTD) from standard VR headsets as a scalable alternative for estimating cybersickness. Twelve participants engaged in a VR session using an Oculus Quest 2 headset while their HTD was recorded. Kinematic metrics such as linear and angular velocity, acceleration, and jerk were computed from the HTD, including positional and angular parameters. Participants’ cybersickness levels were assessed using the Virtual Reality Sickness Questionnaire. While exploratory data analysis revealed no significant direct correlation between individual kinematic variables and cybersickness scores, machine learning models were employed to identify predictive patterns. Subsequently, four regression models, including Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, K-Nearest Neighbors, and Support Vector Machines, were trained and evaluated using the computed kinematic features to predict the cybersickness score. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Radon Testing: Reminder, it’s important!?

Program: Communication

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for over 21,000 deaths annually. However, radon testing rates remain low, especially in North Dakota, which has the highest residential radon levels in the U.S. While our original radon smartphone app increased ordering rates, utilization remained low. This feasible study tests the effectiveness of smartphone calendar reminders to increasing the borrowing and use of digital radon test detectors at Grand Forks Public Library. In collaboration with the library, downloadable calendar links will be promoted via its digital newsletter, website, and social media over three months. Outcomes include: (1) behavioral: monthly circulation and waitlist numbers, (2) analytical: click-through rates from promotional channels, and (3) qualitative: patron interviews. By leveraging existing resources with minimal investment, this study could offer a scalable strategy to improve radon testing rates.

Abstract Title: Pedagogy and Ideology: North Dakota Teachers and the Young Citizen’s League

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

Histories of education center the early 20th century as a period of Americanization in schools. One such program found in one-room schoolhouses across the upper Midwest, including North Dakota, was the Young Citizen’s League (YCL). Utilizing the recollections from interviews with former North Dakota one-room schoolhouse teachers housed in the special collections of Chester Fritz Library, this project will focus on the teacher’s perspectives of the YCL as a pedagogical tool and citizenship builder. Their insights, part of North Dakota’s Country School Legacy Project, show how the YCL allowed them to maintain the school, practice child-center pedagogy, and promote patriotism to varying degrees based on their individual preferences and the needs of the community.

Abstract Title: Recognition of biomedical nested named entities using a multilayer BERT-based model

Program: Computer Science

Nested Named Entity Recognition (NNER) is a crucial task in the biomedical domain, involving accurate hierarchical entities recognition from text. Our study presents a novel NNER approach using multilayer bidirectional encoder representation transformer (BERT)-based model. We evaluated MultilayerNNER on the BioASQ-BioNNE dataset, which included 604 English, 1,266 Russian, and 1,870 Bilingual track abstracts, each with eight entity classes. The PubMedBERT-based MultilayerNNER model achieved the highest F1-score (67.30%) in the English-oriented track. Integrating Unified Medical Language System (UMLS) dictionaries improves recall by ~4% across all the BERT-based models. Using SBERT-Large-NLU-RU, MultilayerNNER achieved precision, recall, and F1-score of 68.59%, 65.34%, and 66.93% on the Russian dataset. In the Bilingual track, MultilayerNNER with the BERT-Base-Multilingual-Uncased embedding achieved the highest precision (60.27%), recall (57.5%), and F1-score (58.89%). These results demonstrate the effectiveness of our model in accurately extracting nested entities in both monolingual and bilingual settings, highlighting its versatility and robustness across different languages.

Abstract Title: Feasibility of using Concrete as a Replacement Material for Pavement Markings

Program: Civil Engineering

Pavement markings are a critical component of transportation infrastructure.  They convey information to countless travelers and help improve safety on our roadways.  The problem with markings is their durability and deterioration of visibility.  They are difficult to detect in low visibility conditions and wear down at a relatively fast rate depending upon the material, climate, and traffic – especially in areas with snowplow use.  Consequently, they require constant maintenance and reapplication.  Instead of designing increasingly complex and costly paints, tapes, or adhesives; perhaps the solution is to utilize the same material that composes the roadway itself.  By adding pigmentation and retroreflective material to a typical concrete mix, the desirable properties of both concrete and pavement markings may be achieved in one material.  The markings could potentially last for the entire lifetime of the roadway while maintaining adequate marking properties, eliminating the need for maintenance and saving transportation agencies time and money.

Abstract Title: Working Conditions and Teacher Burn Out

Program: Teaching & Leadership

The United States education system is in a crisis in relation to teacher turn over and teacher retention. Educators are leaving in the masses to find new areas of work and since educator pay has always been low, it is leaving some to ponder why the sudden increase in teacher turnover. This study is to look specifically at the relationship between the behavior theory implemented within an elementary school building and its correlation to the teacher retention within that building.  

Abstract Title: Growing into Compassion: Exploring Therapist’ Experience of Burnout and Job Satisfaction

Program: Counseling Psychology

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of therapists’ growth mindset, self-compassion, and type of site on burnout and job satisfaction. Participants (N = 283) were recruited using Cloud Research and emails to mental health treatment centers. Participants anonymously completed a 100-item Qualtrics questionnaire. Measures used include burnout (Lee et al., 2007), growth mindset (De Castella & Byrne, 2015), job satisfaction (Stanton et al., 2002), and self-compassion (Raes et al., 2011). We found a significant difference in job satisfaction between the type of site a counselor provides services at (F = 2.33; p = .018). We found that burnout had a significant relationship with growth mindset (r = -.17; p = .033) and self-compassion (r = -.50; p < .001). The findings suggest that job satisfaction varies between mental healthcare settings, and that therapists with greater growth mindset display decreased burnout and increased job satisfaction and self-compassion. 

Abstract Title: Analyzing the Effects of Cloud Seeding for Hail Suppression on the North Dakota Cloud Modification Project

Program: Atmospheric Sciences

This study assesses the effectiveness of cloud seeding for hail suppression as part of the North Dakota Cloud Modification Project. Using a radar-based hail size retrieval algorithm, storm data from 2016-2018 were analyzed to compare observed hail sizes with forecasted values from atmospheric models and indices. Algorithm output is compared with model proximity sounding analysis including two hail-centric indices, five severe weather indices, and HAILCAST output to determine the forecasted hail size. Results show that the majority of unseeded cases have matching forecasted and observed hailstone diameter. In contrast, in seeded storms, observed hail sizes were consistently smaller than forecasted. The difference in false alarms between unseeded and seeded cases can be quantified as 20.8% of cases in which seeding was effective. These findings support the potential of cloud seeding to mitigate hail damage, enhance agricultural resilience, and justify its continued use in hail-prone regions like Western North Dakota.

Abstract Title: Comprehensive Evaluation of Intersection Safety: AI- Driven Reactive and Proactive Risk Assessment Approaches

Program: Civil Engineering

Critical intersections, where 20% to 50% of crashes occur, are most vital for effective countermeasures and road safety management. Traditional traffic safety assessments rely on aggregated crash data, making them reactive and limited by inconsistencies in crash reports, outdated reporting systems, and a lack of insight into driver behavior. With the advancement of big data and AI, new opportunities have emerged to analyze video data for traffic conflict analysis, enabling real-time detection of near-miss events, understanding driver behavior, and improving proactive safety measures beyond traditional crash-based assessments. Additionally, the integration of Surrogate Measures of Safety (SMoS) can provide early warnings and deeper insights into traffic conflicts, which are the precursors to crashes.  This study aims to develop a comprehensive framework for conflict analysis using Machine Vision and AI, specifically targeting intersections to assess safety performance in real time, enabling proactive interventions to mitigate risks and prevent crashes before they occur.

Abstract Title: Optimized Design and Economic Analysis of Solar and Boiler-Based Multi-Effect Distillation Systems

Program: Geology

This study aims to conduct a cost and functional analysis of two desalination systems: the MED Solar Field System and the MED Conventional Boiler System. The MED Solar Field System incurs approximately $3.22 USD/m3 in operational costs by harnessing solar energy. In contrast, the MED Conventional Boiler System utilizes a methane-fired boiler to generate steam, with a production cost of an attractive $1.55 USD/m3. The former system has a greater potential for reducing emissions than the latter, which relies heavily on fossil fuels. However, in the long run, the operational costs are lower, making the second option more economical. Relevant field data and analysis of case studies indicate that MED Conventional Boiler Systems are preferred due to their lower operational costs. On the other hand, as demand for clean energy resources continues to increase, the low-emission characteristics of the MED Solar Field System are appealing. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Measuring Faculty Research Competence: How Does Competence and Motivation Predict Faculty Research Success?

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

University faculty produced more publications when they felt competent and motivated to do research. Traditionally, faculty research competencies (FRC) are measured through self-reported questionnaires that contain biases due to over-report, under-report, and socially desirable or extreme responses. Considering limitations, this study introduces more reliable measures of faculty research competence. The main objectives of this study were to develop an FRC test, examine how FRC predicts success, and determine whether motivation is a mediator. This study followed a cross-sectional survey design and collected data through an online questionnaire containing 82 items from 155 faculty who are working at the North American University. We found that faculty over-reported their competence in self-reported responses, while they performed less in test-based measurement. FRC also varied when considering demographic characteristics, institutional support, competence, and motivation. Structural equation modeling revealed that FRC predicts intrinsic motivation, and intrinsic motivation predicts faculty success positively and significantly. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Performing nonlinear stability analysis for a highly interconnected gene network model

Program: Physics

Hematopoiesis, the process of forming all the types of blood cells, is a good model to study cell-fate choice. Inferring hematopoietic gene regulatory networks (GRNs) using gene circuit models is a crucial step in unraveling the complex dynamics governing hematopoiesis. A study has been carried out in which, a 12-gene model was used to model the dynamics of the gene regulatory network that governs differentiation into erythrocytes and neutrophils. We apply nonlinear stability analysis to this highly dimensional gene network model, to figure out qualitative behaviors in terms of stability. This will offer valuable insights into hematopoietic gene regulation and guide the development of targeted therapeutic interventions.

Abstract Title: A Number Talk in Elementary Classrooms

Program: Teaching & Leadership

An interdisciplinary group of educators planned and taught a socio-ecological activity in a 4th grade classroom. A number talk emerged from this lesson plan and a variety of strategies were discussed in identifying the total number of objects buried in the soil during the hands-on composting activity. This work helped to create a sense of community and engage with each other in thinking and wondering.  

Abstract Title: Factors Affecting the Teachers' Adoption of Digital Educational Resources in Schools of Kathmandu Valley

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

This is a quantitative study examining the factors affecting teachers' Behavioral Intention to use Digital Educational Resources (DER) in the schools of Kathmandu Valley, the capital city of Nepal, by applying the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The questionnaire was developed based on the UTAUT model and data were collected through convenience sampling. Pearson’s correlation, independent sample t-test, single linear regression and multiple linear regression were run on SPSS to examine the significant role of multiple factors over Behavioral Intention of teachers to use DER in class for the collected 57 responses. The study found that gender significantly shaped Behavioral Intention, with men teachers demonstrating a higher intention to use DER than women teachers. Additionally, Facilitating Conditions, is identified as a significant predictor of Behavioral Intention to use DER in the schools of Kathmandu Valley. Keywords: Behavioral Intention, Digital Educational Resources (DER), Technology Adoption, UTAUT.

Abstract Title: Initiating the Study on Culturally Relevant Practices within STEM Education Focusing on Native American Students   

Program: Educational Practice & Leadership

Educators working with diverse student populations require extensive knowledge that goes beyond a basic understanding, regard, and acknowledgement that ethnic groups have different values or exhibit comparable values in numerous ways (Gay, 2002), but also the ability to connect and use these values within teaching practices, allows items to be culturally relevant. The issue does not fall in the content or hands-on experiences but rather to the relevance of students participating in these interactions. Instead, the goal is to deepen the student’s overall understanding of subject matter in connection to real-world, community-based happenings. The goal is to deepen the student’s overall understanding of subject matter in connection to real-world, community-based happenings. Evidence and research show a prolonged underrepresentation of Indigenous people in STEM and STEM-related fields (Bang & Medin, 2010). Alternatively, this idea isn't limited to STEM fields but can be integrated across various subjects.

Abstract Title: Fabricating optical thin films for a cavity-enhanced photon pair source 

Program: Physics

Optical thin films are essential for fabricating optical elements, light sources, and detectors in optics and photonics. These films enable precise control of light-matter interactions by optimizing reflection and transmission in optical Components such as photon pair sources. Entangled photon pairs are typically generated using nonlinear bulk crystals such as lithium niobate or KTP. However, current sources face limitations in efficiency, scalability, and compatibility with telecom networks. To address this, we explore ultra-thin dielectric coatings composed of TiO₂ and SiO₂ to enhance light confinement and improve photon generation. Using the Pocal library in Python, we systematically vary the number of TiO₂ and SiO₂ layers from 3 to 23, targeting 0% reflectivity in the 750-800 nm wavelength range and 98% reflectivity in the 1500–1600 nm wavelength range. It is shown that a 12-layer dielectric stack initially achieves the target reflectivity. We aim to fabricate the coating at the Nanofoundry.

Abstract Title: Guiding Principles For New Principals: Talking the talk and walking the walk

Program: Teaching & Leadership

In a study conducted by Seyithan Demirdag, characteristics of strong instructional leadership were defined as having a vision for the school, creating a supportive environment, being aware of the work happening in the building, and developing goals (2021). This study further highlighted the correlation between instructional leadership and teacher motivation, demonstrating that teachers are more motivated when they feel supported and encouraged. Additional guiding principles for new school leaders include building strong relationships, developing effective systems, focusing on student achievement, fostering professional growth, and celebrating success. By focusing on these guiding principles, new principals can establish the foundation for a thriving school environment where students and staff experience success. This presentation will review the existing literature on effective school leadership and integrate these findings with the firsthand experiences of a first-year principal.

Abstract Title: A Thematic Analysis Exploring the Intersection of Minority Stressors and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Related Stressors in Early Adopters of PrEP?

Program: Counseling Psychology

Minority Stress Theory postulates that sexual and gender minority identities face unique stressors within daily existence. These stressors are multidimensional in nature and have been linked to a variety of positive and maladaptive behavior patterns. One such unique experience, often associated with the sexual minority community is the utilization of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a pharmacological intervention, taken preventively to halt the contraction of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This study seeks to better understand the unique stressors associated with PrEP usage and argues that these stressors are unique from general minority stressors faced by those with a minoritized sexual identity. This study conducted a thematic analysis with participants (n=18) who had indicated they were currently using PrEP. Thematic analysis revealed that PrEP usage and associated PrEP stress acted synergistically with general and minority stressors while also being a unique mechanism.

Abstract Title: Faculty’s Attitudes and Actions Regarding Student Accommodations in Higher Education 

Program: Teaching & Leadership

Faculty in higher education are struggling to provide accommodations to students with disabilities in their classrooms. This is due in part to several factors including student disclosure, lack of knowledge, and taking action to provide accommodations in the classroom. The purpose of this study is to explain faculty’s attitudes and actions, at higher educational institutions in North Dakota and South Dakota, when it comes to providing accommodations and course modifications, and their understanding disability law and concepts. An explanatory sequential mixed methods design will be used with the quantitative phase of the study using the ITSI (Inclusive Teaching Strategies Inventory) to determine their attitudes and actions towards accommodations, course modifications, and disability law and concepts in relation to previous training they have received. The second, qualitative phase will be conducted as a follow-up semi-structured interview to the quantitative results to help explain significant and non-significant findings.   

Abstract Title: A Moss Growth Optimization Approach to Robot Path Planning

Program: Electrical Engineering

Safe and efficient path planning remains a significant challenge for mobile robots in complex environments. Many existing approaches struggle to balance global exploration and local optimization, often resulting in suboptimal paths or high computational costs in cluttered, high-dimensional spaces. To address these challenges, a Moss Growth Optimization (MGO) approach is introduced, inspired by natural growth systems and integrated with a graph-based method for navigation. The environment is modeled using MAKLINK Graph Theory (MGT) for efficient map representation, and an initial path is rapidly generated via a hybrid of graph-based and sampling-based algorithms. MGO improves global exploration through an extensive search of the solution space, while local optimization, supported by an implicit memory strategy, refines promising routes. A Line-of-Sight (LoS) Reduction technique further minimizes unnecessary exploration, leading to faster convergence and shorter paths than state-of-the-art methods. Simulation results confirm these improvements, establishing MGO as an effective navigation tool.

Abstract Title: Understanding Emotional Differences in Interracial Relationships

Program: Counseling Psychology

Interracial relationships present unique emotional dynamics influenced by cultural norms, communication styles, and identity development (Tsai & Clobert, 2016). This study explores how cultural factors shape emotional expression, examining the role of display rules, linguistic nuances, and belief systems in shaping interpersonal interactions (Hareli et al., 2015; Leslie et al., 2015). Using a grounded theory approach (Fassinger, 2005), semi-structured interviews with interracial couples will provide insight into how partners navigate emotional differences, relationship stressors, and societal expectations (Renalds, 2011; Oetzel et al., 2007). The study aims to uncover patterns in emotional expression, communication challenges, and adaptive strategies that foster relational harmony (Markus & Kitayama, 1991). Findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of how cultural and individual identity intersect within interracial relationships, offering valuable implications for counseling, relationship education, and broader discussions on emotional expression in diverse partnerships (Dietz, 2016; Ponterotto, 2005).

Abstract Title: Seismic Damage Prediction of Liquid Storage Tanks Using Machine Learning and Balancing Techniques

Program: Civil Engineering

Predicting potential damage to liquid storage tanks under seismic loading is a critical component of seismic risk analysis. This study employs a data-driven artificial intelligence (AI) approach to forecast seismic-induced damage states in storage tanks. Using a real-world dataset comprising ground motion characteristics, tank dimensions, and documented damage states from past earthquake field reports, the damage states were categorized based on the HAZUS classification system for storage tank damage. Multiple machine learning models, including Random Forest (RF), XGBoost, and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), were evaluated in combination with various data balancing techniques to determine the optimal method for predicting damage states. The RF classifier demonstrated the best performance with the imbalanced dataset, achieving accuracies of 0.78 and 0.63 on the training and test sets, respectively. Among the balancing techniques tested, ADASYN outperformed SMOTE and class weighting, slightly improving the RF model’s accuracy to 0.79 on the training set and 0.66 on the test set. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Authoritarian Filial Piety, Internalized Homophobia, and Psychological Distress among Chinese Sexual Minority Men: The Protective Roles of Perceived Parental Support and Resilience

Program: Counseling Psychology

Authoritarian Filial Piety (AFP), rooted in Confucian traditions, reinforces heteronormative expectations and has been linked to increased internalized homophobia (IH) among Chinese sexual minority men. Based on the minority stress model, this study investigates whether IH mediates the relationship between AFP and psychological distress (e.g., depression, anxiety) and whether Perceived Parental Support for Sexual Orientation (PPSSO) and Resilience moderate these effects. A cross-sectional survey of 400–500 self-identified gay and bisexual men in China will be conducted using validated measures of AFP, IH, PPSSO, Resilience, and psychological distress. Findings are expected to clarify how AFP shapes IH, how IH worsens mental health outcomes, and how PPSSO and resilience buffer these effects. By integrating cultural and individual protective factors, this study aims to advance understanding of mental health among Chinese sexual minorities and inform culturally adapted interventions.

Abstract Title: Green Synthesis of Anemonin: A Biobased Monomer for Sustainable Plastics

Program: Chemistry

Anemonin, a cyclobutane containing dimer is a bioactive natural product found in plants of the Ranunculaceae family. It has garnered significant attention due to its promising pharmaceutical and material applications. It faces challenges in traditional synthesis due to low yields, and toxic reagents, hindering scalability and raising environmental concerns. This presentation highlights recent advances in developing green and scalable synthetic strategies. Focusing on sustainable approaches, we explore methods minimizing environmental impact while maximizing efficiency. Key strategies include optimized steam distillation followed by fractional distillation carried out under mild conditions, reducing waste and energy demands. Meanwhile, anemonin’s ability to dimerize under mild heating provides an alternative green avenue by minimizing hazardous reagents. Furthermore, incorporating renewable feedstock derived from plants as starting material aligns with sustainable chemistry principles, reducing reliance on fossil resources. We discuss cost-effectiveness and process optimization for industrial scale production. These modified green synthetic approaches aim to unlock anemonin's potential for diverse applications, paving the way for environmentally friendly and economically viable production.    

Abstract Title: Alternative assessment for alternative students: Best grading practices to engage students in alternative high schools

Program: Teaching & Leadership

Through surveys, in-depth interviews with instructors and students at an alternative high school, and data analysis of scores before and after the implementation of nontraditional grading practices, this study will aim to determine best grading practices to engage students in alternative high schools.  Through this research, I will determine what nontraditional assessments lead to greater engagement of nontraditional students, which will result in more information retained by students and higher grades reported.  This focus on alternative assessment for alternative high school students will promote more successful completion of coursework.

Abstract Title: AdaptBlur: Adaptive PDE-Based Image Filtering for Enhanced Deep Learning Classification Performance

Program: Mathematics

Image preprocessing is crucial in deep learning models for high performance and accuracy. This study implements AdaptBlur, an adaptive linear filter developed from a second-order partial differential equation using finite difference approximations which improves image quality while preserving the image structure with tunable parameters that are optimized through the Nelder-Mead method minimizing mean square error to improve the effectiveness of the filter. Moreover, the study evaluates the impact of the results on model performances on deep learning classification using publicly available datasets. Experimentally, image classifiers trained on data preprocessed with the AdaptBlur filter perform much better than those trained without preprocessing or with preprocessing using the conventional Gaussian filter as this filter gives nearly a 10.16% increase in classification accuracy.

Abstract Title: Bedtime Routines and Nightmare Frequency as Related to Sleep Duration and Insomnia among  Rural and Urban Pediatric Populations

Program: Counseling

This study aims to explore the relationship between bedtime routines and nightmare frequency as related to sleep duration and insomnia among children. This study will explore if there is an association with unhealthy bedtime routines and nightmare frequency in pediatric populations, if sleep duration mediates the relationship between bedtime routines and nightmare frequency, as well as whether the patterns between bedtime routines and nightmare frequency differ between rural and urban pediatric populations. Data will be analyzed using a national sample of participants online through CloudResearch connect. It is anticipated that there will be a negative correlation between unhealthy bedtime routines and increased nightmare frequency in the sample. Second, it is anticipated that sleep duration will be a mediating factor between bedtime routines and nightmare frequency. Third, it is anticipated that the results will remain significant among both rural and urban populations in the sample.

Abstract Title: Addressing Chronic Absenteeism: A Data-Driven Approach to Attendance Interventions

Program: Teaching & Leadership

Student absenteeism is associated with a wide range of negative academic, social, and health outcomes, yet limited research exists on the most effective interventions for improving school attendance. This study aims to identify best practices used by schools with high levels of consistent attendance in Minnesota. Using a two-phase methodology, this research will first analyze county-level attendance data to identify schools with strong attendance records. Then, semi-structured interviews with school administrators will be conducted to explore the strategies and interventions they implement. By synthesizing these findings, this study seeks to generate actionable recommendations for improving attendance policies and practices, ultimately contributing to a more supportive and effective educational system. 

Abstract Title: Cocaine LC-MS Analysis in Insects for the Determination of Post-Mortem Interval 

Program: Chemistry

More than 24,000 persons in the U.S. died from cocaine-involved overdose in 2021. In cases of homicide and suspect death, the estimation of postmortem interval (PMI) is crucial and usually involves the use of insects when human tissues are severely decomposed, or inadequate for sampling. In this project, a sensitive and selective method using RPHPLC/TOF-MS was developed for the simultaneous screening and quantification of cocaine and its metabolites in the developmental stages of blowfly. RPHPLC/TOF-MS analysis resulted in instrumental limits of detection (LODs) of 1, 6 and 8 ng/mL for cocaine, ecgonine methyl ester and benzoylecgonine, respectively. Thus, this analytical method can accurately identify and quantify analytes at low dosage levels, in minute insects tissue samples, which is useful in forensic investigations that deals with low levels of cocaine/metabolites, to understand the effect of these drugs on the development cycle of primary insect colonizers, for the estimation of the PMI.

Abstract Title: Impact of Trauma-Informed Workshops on Teacher Efficacy in Rural Classrooms

Program: Teaching & Leadership

This study examines the impact of trauma-informed workshops on teacher efficacy in rural 4th-grade classrooms. Given that childhood trauma affects students' cognitive, social, and emotional development, trauma-informed practices are crucial in fostering supportive learning environments. However, rural educators often face challenges such as limited resources and professional isolation. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study collected pre- and post-workshop survey data through the Teachers' Sense of Efficacy Scale (TSES) and qualitative insights from focus groups, interviews, and classroom observations. Findings suggest that trauma-informed workshops enhance teachers’ confidence in classroom management and student engagement, equipping them with skills to better support trauma-affected students. Despite these improvements, challenges remain in sustaining these practices due to time constraints and varying levels of prior knowledge. Future research will explore ways to refine workshop content and assess long-term impacts on teaching efficacy and student outcomes.

Abstract Title: When XAI Meets CAPTCHA: A Case Study

Program: Computer Science

In the rapidly evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the need for robust and transparent defenses against automated attacks is paramount. This paper examines the current landscape of human-centric cybersecurity, emphasizing the interplay of human behavior, cognition, and emotions with cybersecurity measures. We highlight the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to create adaptive security systems, with a particular focus on Completely Automated Public Turing tests to tell Computers and Humans Apart (CAPTCHA). Leveraging eXplainable AI (XAI) and the Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanations (LIME) technique, we enhance the transparency of CAPTCHA-solving models. Through iterative refinement of a deep learning model, we assess the impact of increased training epochs and LIME sample explanations on accuracy and interpretability. The findings reveal XAI’s potential to improve both the transparency and effectiveness of ML models, advancing more secure and trustworthy digital environments.

Abstract Title: Seismic Performance Evaluation and Design Optimization of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Storage Tanks for Energy Infrastructure

Program: Civil Engineering

With the growing global reliance on liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a key energy resource, ensuring the structural integrity and seismic resilience of LNG storage tanks has become increasingly critical, especially in seismically active regions. This study focuses on the seismic performance evaluation and design optimization of LNG storage tanks to enhance the reliability of energy infrastructure. Utilizing advanced finite element analysis (FEA) with ABAQUS software, the dynamic response of LNG tanks under real-world seismic events is simulated, considering complex fluid-structure interaction (FSI) and soil-structure interaction (SSI) effects. Key parameters such as hydrodynamic pressure, time-history response, sloshing behavior, and stress concentration zones are analyzed to identify critical failure mechanisms like local buckling and plastic deformation. Both static and dynamic nonlinear analyses are conducted using seismic inputs from historical earthquakes, including the Kobe and El Centro events. Design optimization focuses on factors like tank geometry, wall thickness, foundation design, and material properties to improve seismic performance. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: GC-MS Characterization of Extracts of Three Varieties of Quinoa ( Chenopodium quinoa Willd)

Program: Chemistry

Quinoa is regarded as one of the most complete food sources for humans as a result of its high nutritional value and high resistance to abiotic stresses such as drought, cold and salt. In this study, an attempt has been made at characterizing extracts of three varieties of Quinoa using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and aqueous extracts of the three varieties have been obtained by sequential Soxhlet extraction. Derivatization with N, O-bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) with 1% TMCS and mass spectra interpretation of chromatograms of the extracts has aided in the identification of some fatty acids, fatty acid methyl esters, glycerides, sterols as well as saccharides in the extracts. The results of the study suggest that the three Quinoa varieties have similar chemical composition. The identified components of the Quinoa varieties have associated benefits and support the high nutritional value for Quinoa.

Abstract Title: Transforming Civic Education: A proposed mixed methods study exploring Gen Alpha’s perceptions of their educational and civic efficacy and values 

Program: Teaching & Leadership

The earliest arguments for American public education cited education’s integral role in protecting democracy by creating knowledgeable, engaged citizens. Despite this, civics education in the 21st century has been deprioritized in favour of core content areas and standardized testing. Given current events, it is imperative, now more than ever, to provide strong, effective civics education across grade levels and content areas. For civics education to be effective, it must evolve to reflect the realities of society and the current beliefs, interests, and values of the students. The purpose of this proposed mixed methods study is to explore how Generation Alpha (2010-2024) middle school students currently perceive their educational and civic efficacy and values. The results of this study would contribute valuable insight into how we can transform civics education to meet their needs, as well as add to the limited body of literature of this new generation. 

Abstract Title: Embracing Wonderings: A Professional Learning Course, Grounded in Practitioner Inquiry

Program: Teaching & Leadership

My name is Lisa Vojacek and I am currently in my first year in the Teaching and Leadership Ph.D. program at the University of North Dakota. Teacher Inquiry is a powerful means of teacher professional development. Providing space and facilitating learning in a collaborative inquiry setting was the premise of this project, which was ultimately the creation of a structure (course) that will be used to assist teachers in their professional learning. The course is grounded in research around practitioner inquiry, teacher agency, and collaboration as a means for professional learning. During the sixteen-week course, teachers in the Grand Forks Public School District will have the opportunity to develop wonderings, read current literature around these topics, implement change, collect data, analyze and reflect on practice, and share out their findings with stakeholders. 

Abstract Title: Why is driving the motivation to homeschool in North Dakota?

Program: Teaching & Leadership

As the push for school choice grows in North Dakota, seemingly to benefit both private schools and those who choose to homeschool, I began exploring the research on homeschooling statistics and the motivations driving parents to make the choice to homeschool their children instead of enrolling them at their local school district. While there is minimal research on homeschooling, there were some interesting statistics showing a growing trend toward growth in homeschooling nationwide. North Dakota specific data shows that they had their highest number of homeschooling students in the 2023/2024 school year, even higher than at the height of covid in 2020/2021. This data shows that there needs to be more research done in this field, to benefit students, policymakers, and academic researchers. I propose to use the qualitative research method of interviewing to begin looking into the motivations of homeschooling parents in our state to see if there are overall themes to their motivations. 

Abstract Title: Coloring the Classroom: White Teachers' Experiences with Culturally Responsive Teaching 

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

The growing racial and cultural diversity of U.S. K-12 classrooms contrasts with the predominantly White teaching workforce, posing challenges to equitable education. This phenomenological study, grounded in critical pedagogy, explores how six White teachers in the Greater Grand Forks area—a predominantly White rural community—understand and implement culturally responsive teaching (CRT). North Dakota's historical displacement of its Indigenous population and ongoing lack of diversity have resulted in many educators lacking the knowledge and skills to support culturally and linguistically diverse students. Through semi-structured interviews, the study examines teachers' experiences navigating sociocultural dynamics, addressing the needs of minoritized students, and fostering inclusive learning environments. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key patterns and insights from the teachers' perspectives. By centering on teachers' experiences, this research provides insights into the challenges and opportunities of implementing CRT in rural contexts, contributing to professional development, and promoting equitable access to education.

Abstract Title: Assessment of Student Success in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at the University of North Dakota

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

The Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of North Dakota (UND) maintains high academic standards in order to assess student success.  Academic assessment begins with application to the graduate DPT program, where pre-requisite science GPA is one of the major determinants for admission.  What we don’t know is if there are other non-cognitive variables of success that may also be important application considerations.  The purpose of this study was to identify if grit and belonging have any relationship to the 1st year GPA of DPT students.  Eighty-two UND DPT students completed a survey of ten questions from the twelve (12) item Grit Scale, the Sense of Belonging at Imperial College London scale, and self-reported first year GPA.  The results of the survey indicate that there is a significant positive relationship with grit and the 1st year GPA, and no significant relationship with belonging.  

Abstract Title: Detecting Flowering Coverage in North Dakota Right-Of-Ways For Supporting Pollinators

Program: Earth System Science & Policy

Establishing and maintaining high-quality grasslands and conservation lands for pollinators can be difficult and costly. As an alternative, roadsides can provide additional forage resources. This study aims to examine the potential of roadside, road ditch, and right-of-way (ROW) land in North Dakota (ND) as alternative habitats for pollinators by quantifying the yellow flowering observed in these sites. The project encompasses a multifaceted approach to assess the viability of roadside ditches in supporting pollinator ecosystems. The research incorporates two essential components: 1) an extensive road survey through the Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) of ND in two consecutive summer seasons and 2) intensive image detection using machine learning techniques. To ensure coverage of the three main routes through the PPR, a travel plan was designed to maximize survey sites within limited time and distance over the growing season. The data analysis, powered by state-of-the-art machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow and PyTorch, estimates the yellow floral coverage observed from the imagery data collected from the road surveys. ... (abstract truncated)

Abstract Title: Synthesis of Highly Near-Infrared Persistent Luminescence Nanoparticles for Bioimaging

Program: Chemistry

Persistent luminescence nanoparticles (PLNPs) are emerging as promising nanoscale materials that can remain luminescent for minutes to several days after initial excitation. In this work, Zinc (II) nitrate and Gallium (III) nitrate were used to generate a nanomaterials-based host structure (ZGO) with Chromium (III) nitrate doped into the nanomaterial during synthesis using the hydrothermal method. Analysis of absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy of the ZGO nanomaterial revealed an excitation wavelength peak at 570 nm with an emission wavelength peak at 860 nm in the near- infrared range with an average nanomaterial diameter of 45.5 ± 2.3 nm with an average zeta potential of +44.4 ± 0.9 mV. Compared to fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) dye, ZGO: Cr PLNPs exhibit luminescence that persists up to one hour, which helps bypass the autofluorescence issues seen with traditional dyes like FITC when used in biological samples. The characterization results reveal promising prospects in future bioimaging testing.

Abstract Title: Microwave Hydrothermal Synthesis of MoS2/G Heterostructure with A Highly Thermally Stable 1T Phase

Program: Chemical Engineering

MoS2, a layered transition metal dichalcogenides material,  In contrast, 1T-MoS2, a hydrophilic and metallic material, has more active sites which exit in both edges and basal surfaces. The electronic conductivity of 1T phase is greater than that of 2H phase, 1T-MoS2 is more favorable in the application of hydrogen evolution catalyst, energy storage, photocatalytic degradation and thermoelectric energy harvesting. A coal-derived graphene-intercalated MoS2 heterostructure (MoS2/G) with a highly thermally stable 1T phase was synthesized through a microwave hydrothermal method. The 3D morphology remained after annealing. More importantly, the reaction rate study suggests that slow reaction rate is conducive to the intercalation of large guest compounds like graphene into MoS2 interlayer.The results suggest that it is an effective strategy to obtain highly thermally stable 1T-MoS2 by inserting large and thermally stable guest compounds into MoS2 interlayer.

Abstract Title: Assessing the feasibility and sustainability of wind and solar-powered water electrolysis for hydrogen fuel and oxygen production in tribal communities

Program: Chemical Engineering

This research assesses the sustainability and feasibility of using electricity generated by wind turbines and photovoltaic solar systems to power water electrolysis to produce hydrogen fuel and oxygen in tribal settlements. This technology aims to enhance energy sovereignty in tribal communities by offering a clear roadmap on sustainable hydrogen production infrastructure to generate hydrogen as fuel for use in tribal territories. A holistic approach comprising of the preliminary design of the scalable hydrogen generation system, economic feasibility assessment to evaluate the cost effectiveness of the system and lifecycle analysis to evaluate the environmental impacts will be embedded in this study for indigenous communities to make good decisions about such technologies that address their energy needs.  This study uses a collaborative approach by involving tribal nations so that the proposed roadmaps will be beneficial and relevant.

Abstract Title: Racial Microaggressions and Their Impact on BIPOC Psychologists: Goal-Directed Activities/Behaviors, Job Satisfaction, Self-Efficacy, and Coping

Program: Counseling Psychology

Racial microaggressions negatively impact the career experiences of BIPOC-identifying psychologists, influencing job satisfaction, self-efficacy, and coping strategies. Guided by the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) work satisfaction model, this study examines how microaggressions function as systemic barriers that disrupt self-efficacy, distort outcome expectations, and hinder goal-directed behaviors, which are key constructs of the SCCT framework. Using validated measures, including the Racial and Ethnic Microaggressions Scale (REMS), Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS), and Career Decision-Making Self-Efficacy Scale (CDMSE-SF), this study quantitatively explores these relationships. Furthermore, it investigates how coping strategies moderate the effects of racial microaggressions, potentially restoring self-efficacy and aligning career goals with positive work outcomes. Findings will contribute to the development of interventions that enhance environmental supports, promote equitable opportunities, and improve professional satisfaction for BIPOC psychologists. This research extends SCCT by integrating systemic inequities into career development models and advocating for structural changes to foster workplace inclusion.

Abstract Title: Supporting Native American Self-Efficacy, Engagement, and Persistence Through Near-Peer Mentoring

Program: Teaching & Leadership

This study explores the impact of a culturally responsive near-peer mentoring program on self-efficacy, academic engagement, and persistence among Native American high school students in North Dakota. Native American students face significant educational challenges, including the highest dropout rates and the lowest academic performance compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Despite efforts to implement culturally responsive pedagogy and mentoring models, they remain underrepresented in post-secondary education. This research focuses on juniors and seniors at a rural high school, examining a mentor-mentee program that pairs students with undergraduate mentors from a nearby university over a two-year period.

Abstract Title: Examining the impact of a paid student teaching experience and supplemental mentorship on K-12 teacher induction 

Program: Teaching & Leadership

Teacher shortages remain a critical challenge across the U.S., particularly in STEM fields and rural areas. In North Dakota, where two-thirds of schools are rural, shortages of mathematics and science teachers have persisted since 2003. Geographic isolation, limited professional development opportunities, and teacher salaries all compound this situation. Prior research indicates that structured induction and mentorship during the early career improves teacher retention and student learning outcomes. This study examines the Rural Student Teaching Experience (RSTE), a program providing financial support and mentorship to teachers entering the profession. Since fall 2021, 36 participants have completed the 1-semester program. Findings from this study contribute to understanding how targeted mentorship and financial incentives can support STEM educators and improve retention in rural schools. 

Abstract Title: Childhood experiences, emotion management, and mental health among Asian/Asian Americans

Program: Counseling Psychology

Asian Americans are the fastest-growing population in the United States (US Census Bureau, 2020). Previous research has indicated that experiences of childhood emotional maltreatment may contribute to the development of maladaptive emotion regulation skills and have long-term negative effects on mental health outcomes in general populations (Burns et al., 2010; Mills et al., 2015). However, limited studies have directly examined these relationships, particularly in Asian populations, while controlling for the common experience of minority stress and acculturation. To bridge the literature gap, this project will propose a structural equation model to look at CEM experiences, mental health, emotion management, minority stress, and acculturation among Asian/Asian Americans. The study hypothesizes that emotion regulation would mediate the link between CEM and mental health among Asian/Asian Americans while controlling for minority stress and acculturation.

Abstract Title: Application of Biomass-Derived Hard Carbon in Sodium-ion Batteries:  Sustainable Utilization of Lignin

Program: Chemical Engineering

Lignin, with its renewable and low-cost characteristics, has made lignin-derived hard carbon a widely studied material for energy storage electrodes. Coupled with the abundant and evenly distributed sodium resources, which result in lower costs, as well as the successful application of hard carbon materials in sodium-ion batteries, lignin-derived hard carbon holds significant promise in sodium battery research. However, new technologies are needed to overcome the limitations of lignin-based electrode materials and enhance their performance, bringing them closer to commercialization. By establishing a stable production process, this study achieved a specific capacity of 269 mAh/g, which is close to the commercialized 300 mAh/g of conventional hard carbon materials. This shows that lignin-based anode materials are promising renewable battery electrode materials. It can be used in electrochemical energy storage and conversion devices such as supercapacitors and fuel cells.

Abstract Title: Pathways of Prestige: Cultural Capital and Career Values in Higher Music Education

Program: Music

This study examines how higher music education institutions construct and reinforce professional hierarchies through the distribution of cultural capital.  Drawing on Bourdieu’s framework of institutionalized, embodied, and objectified cultural capital, the research explores how faculty guidance, institutional discourse, and networking opportunities shape students' perceptions of career success.  Despite comprehensive training, students often encounter an implicit "hierarchy of success," where performance careers are viewed as more prestigious than alternative paths in education or administration.  Using a qualitative approach—including interviews, document analysis, and participant observation—this study investigates faculty perspectives, institutional practices, and student experiences.  Findings will provide insight into how institutions influence career trajectories and whether disparities exist between music performance and non-performance fields.  By highlighting these dynamics, the research aims to inform higher education policies that better support sustainable and diverse career pathways in music.

Abstract Title: Leveraging nanomaterials for bioimaging

Program: Chemical Engineering

This work focuses on the preparation, optical and stability properties of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and trititanate nanotube (TiNT) composite materials.  The study primarily investigates GQDs' interaction with TiNT and the impact on fluorescence performance. We used hydrothermal method to form the new-type composite GQDs/TiNT. By optimizing the composite properties, we aim to enhance its photostability and fluorescence intensity, exploring its potential applications in cell detection and further biomedical fields. We used confocal microscopy to study the imaging results in cells. Additionally, we compared the optical and stability properties of the GQDs/TiNT composite with those of original GQDs to evaluate the enhancement effect of TiNT. The findings of this study are expected to provide new insights into the development of efficient and stable and strong fluorescent probe materials, expanding their applications in biosensing and medical imaging.

Abstract Title: It Takes Two to Tango: Midwestern Relationship Taboos Impact Adherence to Social Recreational Dancing in the Greater Grand Forks Region

Program: Education, Health, & Behavior Studies

With obesity and social isolation on the rise in the United States and especially in North Dakota, social exercise adherence can be a healthy life-long habit. Social dancing is form of exercise that is regaining popularity in the Grand Forks area. This small-scale, qualitative study sought to explore the motivators and barriers to long-term adherence to social recreational dancing in the Grand Forks region. Acknowledging a feminist lens, observations were conducted at public line and partner dance lessons and socials in the Grand Forks area along with semi-structured individual narrative interviews of long-term dancers who reported at least 5 years of dance experience. Transcripts were inductively coded and thematically analyzed. Preliminary findings were triangulated with member checking, literature review, and observation data. A pattern emerged revealing Midwestern cultural norms and relationship taboos may be impacting adherence to social recreational dancing in our region. 

Abstract Title: Ring Opening Reduction Polymerization of Cyclic Anhydrides Forming a  New Family of Polymers: Poly(silyl ether-silyl ester)s

Program: Chemistry

Degradability of polymers is a very important aspect of polymer chemistry due to the potential in industrial and medicinal applications. The biggest challenge is forming stable polymers which are degradable in mild pH ranging from 6 to 8, and which can degrade in a range of 2 to 72 hours. One functionality which has shown the ability to do this is the silyl ester family, however the synthesis of these polymers is challenging and expensive. Our research is focused on poly (silyl ether-silyl ester)s, which uses borane-based catalyst to reduce a cyclic anhydrides using hydrosilanes. These polymers contain the degradable silyl ester group. In this work we study the synthesis, degradation, and other properties of these polymers for further applications. 

Abstract Title: Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HCAI) Principles in Cybersecurity

Program: Cyber Security

Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HCAI) for cybersecurity is an emerging field that balances the analytical power of AI with human expertise to create effective and user-friendly solutions. This research investigates how to incorporate HCAI principles into cybersecurity practices, with an emphasis on user-friendly system designs and fostering trust between humans and AI. Key applications include AI-driven threat detection, behavioral analysis, phishing prevention, secure user authentication, and automated incident response. AI enhances efficiency and accuracy by analyzing large datasets and automating repetitive tasks, while ethical decision-making and contextual understanding remain under human oversight. The benefits of HCAI include improved user experience, fewer false positives, and adaptive systems that evolve with emerging threats. This research underscores HCAI’s potential to prioritize human needs while harnessing the capabilities of AI to effectively address cybersecurity challenges.

Abstract Title: A Needs Assessment of Families Navigating Opioid Use

Program: Indigenous Health

This project examines the multifaceted challenges facing families in Bernalillo County who support a loved one with opioid use disorder. Using a mixed-methods approach that combined structured surveys (n=44) with in-depth focus group discussions (n=10), we identified four critical themes: Emotional and Social Impacts, Coping Strategies and Resilience, Challenges Navigating Service Systems, and Unmet Needs and Calls for Change. Families consistently reported high stress, disrupted roles, and persistent stigma, all intensified by inconsistent healthcare experiences and limited resources. Participants emphasized the urgent need for accessible mental health services, financial assistance, and cohesive coordination among healthcare providers, community organizations, and law enforcement. Our findings highlight the necessity of holistic, stigma-free interventions, spanning integrated care models, public awareness campaigns, and policy reform, to safeguard household stability and promote recovery. By centering families’ experiences, this study provides evidence-based recommendations aimed at improving healthcare practice, shaping policy, and fostering community resilience.

Abstract Title: From Challenges To Strengths: The Factors Shaping Marital Satisfaction in African American Couples

Program: Counseling Psychology

Marital satisfaction is a critical aspect of relationship health. However, existing research on Black couples often adopts a deficit-based approach, focusing on challenges rather than strengths. This literature review shifts the narrative by examining factors that contribute to marital satisfaction among Black couples through a strength-based lens. Key themes include financial stability, spirituality, effective communication, and the role of extended family networks. The review also addresses systemic racism, cultural expectations, and socioeconomic pressures while exploring strategies to enhance relationship quality. The concept of being “equally yoked” is discussed, along with implications for future research. By centering the experiences of Black couples and highlighting their resilience, this review provides valuable insights for researchers and clinicians seeking to support and enhance marital satisfaction. The terms ‘Black’ and ‘African American’ are used interchangeably to refer to individuals of African descent in the United States, acknowledging the diversity within this population.

Abstract Title: Advancing Aeromicrobiology: Investigating the Stratospheric Aeromicrobiome and Its Climate Impact Through STEM Outreach

Program: Earth System Science & Policy

This research aims to advance the field of aeromicrobiology by investigating microbial communities within the stratosphere and their potential role in mitigating climate change. By developing an accessible, cost-effective 3D-printed bioaerosol sampler, this project will enable nationwide data collection through collaboration with STEM students across the United States. Using 16S rRNA sequencing, the collected samples will provide insights into microbial diversity and ecological niches within the stratosphere, with a particular focus on identifying methanotrophs, microorganisms capable of oxidizing methane. This study seeks to establish a comprehensive database of stratospheric microbial communities, standardize bioaerosol sampling methods, and explore the potential for genetic modifications to enhance methanotroph efficiency under extreme atmospheric conditions. By combining scientific innovation with STEM outreach, this project not only contributes to greenhouse gas mitigation but also fosters the next generation of scientists, positioning aeromicrobiology as a key player in addressing global climate challenges.

Abstract Title: Exploring the Orbital Regimes of Binary Asteroids as Sources of Doublet Craters in the Solar System

Program: Aerospace Sciences

Doublet crater research has been linked to binary asteroid research for many years and is a key for planetary defense, asteroid science, and planetary science development. Previous studies have focused on Monte Carlo analyses involving possible impact geometries, but little has been done to bound the characteristics of the binary asteroid systems using the doublet craters they created. The purpose of this research is to determine the story of pre-collisional binary asteroid evolution utilizing crater morphologies as the initializing parameters and applying tools to model the binary systems that may have made up these craters. Questions arise about the orbital regimes of binary asteroids prior to impacting and creating doublet craters on a Solar System bodies. This research aims to answer those questions.

Abstract Title: Exploring Attitude Ambivalence to Flu Vaccines Among Military Parents

Program: Communication

Active-duty service members must receive an annual flu vaccine, while their immediate family members may decline it. This unique situation may lead some parents to experience both positive and negative attitudes toward them and their children receiving flu vaccines, a phenomenon called ambivalent attitudes toward vaccination. This study examines predictors of such attitudes through an online survey of 429 military parents. Findings indicate that greater flu knowledge reduces ambivalence toward both personal and child vaccinations, while using X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram increases ambivalence about personal vaccination but not child vaccination. Additionally, descriptive norms – the perceived popularity of vaccination among important others – reduce ambivalence toward both, whereas subjective norms – social pressure to vaccinate – increase it. To further explore how these factors shape vaccination intentions, a follow-up survey and qualitative interviews will be conducted. Findings would inform internal military communication strategies to address ambivalence and improve flu vaccine uptake.

Abstract Title: The Synergies between Oil Industry with the emergent Green Hydrogen economy: Intersections for the global transition from fossil fuel to green fuel at speed and at scale acceleration.

Program: Energy Engineering

Hydrogen, with its high energy content, is a promising alternative to fossil fuels for transportation, electricity generation, and heating. However, current production relies heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to CO₂ emissions. This study examines the state of green hydrogen production and the role of the oil and gas industry in scaling it up. Currently, green hydrogen is primarily developed by small utility firms and startups. The study reviews hydrogen production technologies and highlights the potential for large-scale adoption with the oil and gas industry involvement. Leveraging their expertise, financial capacity, and supply chain networks can accelerate infrastructure development, including hydrogen engines, refueling stations, and storage systems. Expanding green hydrogen can support renewable energy integration in hard-to-abate industries, addressing energy security, sustainability, and affordability. The study recommends increased investment and collaboration between renewable energy and oil and gas sectors to accelerate green hydrogen’s adoption as a viable fossil fuel alternative.

Abstract Title: Utilizing ArcGIS to Identify Potential Oak Tree Refugia in the Chicago Metropolitan Area

Program: Earth System Science & Policy

This study utilizes ArcGIS and Landsat satellite imagery to identify potential oak tree refugia in the Chicago metropolitan area, focusing on Kane County, Illinois. Due to climate change and land-use pressures, oak species face migration challenges. By analyzing current and past NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) data, key locations with the highest NDVI and most significant improvements were identified. The findings highlight potential refugia, including forest preserves and private lands, that could support oak conservation efforts. Future research will expand the methodology to the entire region, incorporating additional data points, historical oak stands, and isochrone mapping to optimize migration corridors. This research supports long-term conservation planning and policy recommendations to enhance oak species longevity.

Abstract Title: Investigating Decision-Making in the Reorganization of Norway's Rural Schools

Program: Educational Foundations & Research

Recent research on Norway's rural schools reveals a concerning rate of consolidation and closure; 40% of Norway’s public schools have disappeared since 1990. Norwegian research and journalism calls for further empirical investigation on this topic. More broadly, the question of rural consolidation of schools, also discussed as metrocentralization, is of growing concern internationally. This study has begun data collection for case studies of four municipalities in three Norwegian counties, each with at least one recently reorganized or closed school. A range of stakeholder interviews as well as administrative documentation and journalism will form the basis of the analysis. The intended result is a qualitative investigation of questions about the decision-making process, as well as consideration of equity and international comparisons in the municipal and county-level management of Norwegian rural schools.

Abstract Title: Flying Through Alcoholism, Depression and Loneliness: An Autoethnography of A Young Flight Attendant’s Experience of Struggling With Mental Illness and Addiction

Program: Communication

Using an autoethnographic approach, the purpose of this article is to discuss alcoholism, depression and loneliness among flight attendants in a way that has not been discussed to this point. This piece discusses how easy it is for flight attendants to access liquor and how that easy access impacts their ability to constantly access liquor, thus forming a potentially unhealthy relationship with alcohol for some flight attendants, particularly for myself. This autoethnography goes into my personal account of a 90-day stay in an alcohol rehabilitation program where an Alcoholics Anonymous program was practiced, medication management for depression and other mental illnesses was checked, and therapy for loneliness and other issues was used. This was explored as a stand-alone issue as well as its connection to flying. The social support theory, uncertainty reduction theory, substance use and isolation theory, and social learning theory were explored in this autoethnography. 

Abstract Title: Building a Reinforcement Learning based IDS for detecting zero-day attacks in non-stationary wireless communication network 

Program: Computer Science

Without continuous model updates, handling modern-day security systems in large-scale networks is a challenging endeavor. Worse still, the phenomenon of covariate shift resulting from either a rapidly changing attack distribution or frequent changes in network behaviors and architecture, has become a significant concern in the field of network intrusion detection research. To overcome these challenges, this research study uses Reinforcement Learning to build a smart system that can dynamically, in real-time, learn and adapt its detection capabilities to respond to evolving attack strategies, spot unusual activity in a network, as well as pick up on changes in network behavior that might signal an attack. To test and verify the performance of the model, this study uses the NSL KDD and CICIDS 2017 dataset. Results show that the model achieves promising performance in terms of accuracy and lower FPR rates while also being able to incrementally learn newer data patterns.

Abstract Title: Quality Improvement of Technical Training Program for MLS/MLT Hires

Program: Medical Laboratory Science

As a pinnacle of clinical support services, the laboratory department plays a crucial role in diagnostic medicine. However, as a highly technical area patient safety and attention to detail are important daily requirements for all laboratory professionals. To reduce patient safety errors and provide quality patient care for every patient and every sample, competency assessment and continuing education must be embedded into the normal operating routine to ensure compliance and standardization of all processes. It is important for laboratory quality assurance managers to continuously improve training and competencies to ensure all staff are correctly and accurately performing all procedures. As the volume of laboratory samples increases and the staffing levels decrease having a stronger competency and training program is essential. This study will investigate how facilities can improve their training and competency program to ensure lab professionals are effective.

Abstract Title: Moral Distress a Wicked Problem: Exploring the Experiences of Rural Clinic Nurses

Program: Nursing

Moral distress is well-documented in high-risk care environments and can negatively impact nurses, patients, and the healthcare system. Triggers of moral distress are unknown in rural clinic nurses. This study sought to gain a broader understanding of moral distress in nurses working in rural clinic settings. Informed by Rural Nursing Theory, using convergent mixed methods, 52 nurses from four midwestern states were surveyed using the MMD-HP and narrative questions. Mean moral distress was 74.7 (SD = 76.8). Correlation analysis found no significant relationships between moral distress, demographics, or work experience variables. Thematic analysis identified four themes: 1) Lack [of something] leads to Moral Distress 2) Barriers to Patient Care and Adherence 3) Inappropriate Healthcare Utilization 4) Care and Practice Factors that Lead to Moral Distress. Rural clinic nurses experience moral distress for reasons unique to rural practice, while other triggers are shared with urban nurses. 

Abstract Title: How does the implementation of a succession plan for laboratory leadership reduce laboratory survey deficiencies?

Program: Medical Laboratory Science

The medical laboratory workforce has been plagued with critical staffing shortages for years. In addition to vacancies, the laboratory profession struggles with a high turnover rate for both testing personnel and leadership. These personnel shortages may affect more than the morale and workload of the staff, it can impact patient safety, operational efficiency and the overall quality of the lab. Ensuring quality systems are in place is a key component and can be monitored through laboratory accreditation via the inspection process. In this study, I examined literature to determine if utilization of a succession plan has an impact on the overall quality of the laboratory evidenced by reducing inspection deficiencies despite the industry’s shortages and turnover. 

Abstract Title: Textual Network Analysis of Part 107 Waivers

Program: Space Studies

Hazard management in small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) operations is not as well defined as today’s commercial operations despite sUAS widespread use. FAA Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 107 waived operations’ provisions, which manage hazards for higher risk operations that require approval, can offer insight to organizations establishing UAS Programs in managing their own operation hazards. We seek to understand how the Title 14 CFR Part 107 waived operations manage hazards. We used constant comparative methodology to identify hazard mitigation textual categories from provisions and use networks to assess the dispersion of provisions and the identified categories across issued waivers. Eight mitigation categories and twenty-four subcategories were identified. Most provisions present in waivers are reused across waivers. While there is a broad range of provisions to control for hazard mitigations in the Title 14 CFR Part 107 issued waivers analyzed regulations, they require case-by-case modifications.

Abstract Title: Effects of Integrated Virtual Reality and Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation on Standing Balance

Program: Aerospace Sciences

Galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) integrated into virtual reality (VR) enhances immersion and mitigates cybersickness. We evaluated the impact of joint GVS and VR on standing balance, since new applications have users standing and ambulating. Motion sickness, postural sway, and velocity along the mediolateral (ML) and anteroposterior (AP) axes were obtained for 18 subjects while an optokinetic (OPK) stimulus (black and white vertical bars moving left to right) was played in a VR headset across three interventions: GVS in the same direction of visual stimulus (Positive GVS), GVS in the opposite direction of visual stimulus (Negative GVS), and VR without GVS (Null GVS). Motion sickness symptoms increased significantly with Negative GVS. The sway range and velocities along the ML were greater during Positive and Negative GVS than Null GVS, while along AP, it was only greater during Negative GVS. It’s important to test these interventions on standing balance for safety purposes.

Abstract Title: Narrating an Unseen War: Mental Health, Stigma, and Seeking Care.

Program: Communication

This autoethnography explores a decade-long journey of navigating military mental health care, reflecting on personal experiences with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal ideation. The paper highlights some systemic challenges and improvements in mental health care for military members by utilizing a blend of narrative and reflexive analysis, focusing on stigma, gaps in long-term treatment options, and the resilience required by those seeking assistance. Drawing on interactions with nine providers across multiple installations and deployments, this reflection underscores the challenges of accessing consistent care and the impact on service members and their families. This paper examines how military mental health stigma is communicated and how structural barriers within service impact care-seeking, aiming to shift discourse and promote institutional change by intertwining personal experience with systemic analysis. 

Abstract Title: Biomanufacturing of Fossil Carbon-Based Heat & Chemical Products and BECCUS Solutions for De-Carbonization in Texas and the Gulf Coast

Program: Environmental Engineering

The US is the largest producer of biofuels globally, manufacturing 43% of production and blending up to 10% domestically.  In the US Gulf Coast, Texas leads in petroleum, petrochemical production, and CO2 utilization. Consequently, the area is home to many GHG-emitting petrochemical operations. Due to this high concentration of infrastructure, this research explores the opportunity for development of decarbonizing solutions for chemicals and fuel in the region, focusing on BECCUS (bioenergy with carbon capture utilization and storage) and bio-industrial process technologies.  Integrating bioconversion technologies and BECCUS into traditional processes reduces GHGs and enhances the feasibility of heat and chemical products.  This study will utilize geographic software, biochemical process simulation, and expert interviews to (1) assess barriers and accelerators, (2) determine bioreactor scalability factors, and (3) assess business potential for implementation.

Abstract Title: Air Traffic Control and Near Midair Collision Events

Program: Aerospace Sciences

While aviation remains a safe mode of transportation, there are still moments where the layers of safety are unable to contain an adverse event, such as a midair collision.  When the safety gaps intersect, there is high potential for a loss of life.  While there has been some research on midair collisions and avoidance, there has been little research into specifics of near midair collision (NMAC) events.  Viewing the NMAC events as precursors allows us to examine specifics and utilize that knowledge to enhance air safety for all.  This study examined 2,251 NMAC reports submitted to the Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) and classified each report as to whether the pilots in the incident were in communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC).  Of the years examined (2008-2017), most results show between 68 percent and 72 percent of NMACs occurred while at least one of the aircraft was in ATC communication.  

Abstract Title: Understanding Health Literacy in Prison: A Pathway to Systemic Change

Program: Criminal Justice

Justice-involved individuals experience poor health before, during, and after incarceration, yet their ability to access, understand, and apply health information remains critically understudied. Despite this clear need, standardized tools for assessing health literacy in prison settings are lacking, leaving gaps in understanding how incarcerated individuals engage with health information. This study, currently in its early stages, plans to leverage the 2014 Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) Prison Study to create a proxy measure of health literacy, examining how literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills shape health knowledge in prisons. Using latent class analysis (LCA), this research will explore whether distinct subgroups of incarcerated individuals emerge based on demographic factors and assess how these subgroups may relate to self-reported health status. By addressing these gaps, this study aims to provide a nuanced framework for understanding health literacy in carceral settings, informing future research and policy interventions.

Abstract Title: Enhancing clinical education in Medical Laboratory Science: the role of structured feedback on preceptor performance and student satisfaction

Program: Medical Laboratory Science

Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) students' education heavily relies on clinical practicum experiences to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Knowledgeable clinical preceptors are vital for engaging and inspiring learning and enabling students to interact within authentic clinical environments involving laboratory peers, patients, and healthcare providers. The variability in preceptor performance can significantly impact students' experiences and, ultimately, their career paths. Constructive feedback aimed at improving preceptor interactions can enhance the clinical learning experience and foster the development of essential laboratory skills while incorporating real-world insights. By evaluating preceptors’ clinical performance with students and developing a structured feedback system, MLS programs can improve student satisfaction resulting in better-prepared graduates and competent laboratorians.

Abstract Title: Higher Education, Higher Stress: Addressing Faculty Burnout

Program: Higher Education

The evolving landscape of higher education can contribute to faculty burnout, impacting job satisfaction, retention, and student experiences. This study explores strategies to prevent burnout by reviewing peer-reviewed articles and analyzing faculty satisfaction survey data. Key findings emphasize the importance of educating faculty on burnout prevention and actionable strategies. Identifying early signs of burnout is crucial. Preventative measures and strategies include encouraging faculty to set aside time to focus on non-teaching responsibilities, engaging with their college community, and participating in professional development. Institutional support also plays a vital role in ensuring faculty well-being. Burnout experiences vary among individuals, but since the COVID-19 Pandemic, it has become a widespread concern in higher education. Sharing these findings can help educators and administrators develop effective strategies to support faculty and improve overall institutional health.

Abstract Title: The impact of menstrual cycle phase on efficacy and distance-running performance

Program: Education, Health, & Behavior Studies

This study explores the impact of menstrual cycle phases on self-efficacy and performance in female distance runners. Self-efficacy is defined as the belief in one's own capability to plan and perform actions to attain a specific outcome (Bandura, 1997). Using pre- and post-race surveys, athletes' self-efficacy was measured across different menstrual phases. Performance goals were most often met in the early luteal and late follicular phases, with the lowest success in the late luteal phase. Self-efficacy was highest in the late follicular phase. After learning about menstrual cycle effects, athletes only adjusted goals during the bleeding phase, highlighting the impact of menstrual cycle awareness on self-efficacy and performance.

Abstract Title: Indigenizing STEM Education through Culturally Relevant Place-Based Interdisciplinary Curriculum.

Program: Education, Health, & Behavior Studies

Project CuRRENT (Culturally Relevant River Education for Nature-based Teaching) has created and disseminated a professional development program that offers education and resources that assist educators with integrating interdisciplinary STEM curriculum and Indigenized instruction with place-based, culturally relevant, local watershed education. The North Dakota Native American Essential Understandings aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards guide the curriculum to promote the enhancement of teacher self-efficacy and the enrichment of student learning.  Participants have been provided online course modules, cohort days, and workshops at UND, and are implementing lessons in their own classrooms. This poster shares preliminary findings of how teachers perceive and engage with Indigenized STEM, and how this PD impacts their self-efficacy with integrating culturally relevant pedagogy. This research impacts science education and teaching practices by expanding teachers’ knowledge of and self-efficacy with connecting to place and embedding Indigeneity into STEM, therefore supporting the expansion of culturally relevant learning experiences.

Abstract Title: Optimized Trajectory Design in the Earth-Moon System Using Particle Swarm Optimization

Program: Space Studies

This study explores spacecraft trajectory optimization within the 4-body problem, focusing on the Sun, Earth, Moon, and a spacecraft. The research aims to design optimized trajectories for a spacecraft inserted into a high-energy translunar injection orbit, utilizing continuous low-thrust propulsion systems such as solar sails or solar electric propulsion. The optimization framework is built on Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), a flexible, heuristic algorithm well-suited for trajectory design in multi-body environments. The study extends prior research on low-thrust transfers, such as those from the Lunar Gateway to low lunar orbit, by applying PSO to the 4-body problem, focusing on fuel efficiency, mission duration, and spacecraft stability within the Earth-Moon system. The goal is to solve an optimal transfer problem from a translunar injection to a target or final state for proximity operations. This approach allows for iterative modifications, accommodating various mission parameters and constraints.

Abstract Title: Assessing the feasibility for a community scale ethanol plant in tribal communities

Program: Chemical Engineering

This research assesses the sustainability and feasibility of a community scale corn ethanol plant to support the people and activities for Tribal communities in North Dakota and Kansas. This technology aims to enhance the energy sovereignty of these communities by offering a roadmap that can be used by Tribal Governments to aid in decision making. The proposed community scale plant will produce ethanol, corn oil, and animal feed. A modular design with a production capacity of 380,000 L (100,000 gallons) of ethanol per year is being developed. The ethanol will be blended to produce 2,600,000 L (700,000 gallons) of E15 fuel, 300,000 kg (650,000 lbs) of animal feed, and 24,000 L (6,250 gallons) of corn oil.

Abstract Title: MLS Students and the Journey to the Best Studying Method

Program: Medical Laboratory Science

When students first begin college, many lack the fundamental skills to succeed. One of the most important skills for an undergraduate student to learn is what they need to do to not only remember the presented material but also study it to ensure a proper understanding of the material. Without the proper guidance, students may utilize less-than-ideal studying methods, drastically hindering their academic potential. The identification of these students and correction in their methods can swiftly improve their academic success. To investigate this, particularly as it relates to medical laboratory science (MLS), my study will explore how the identification and modification of studying methods in undergraduate MLS students impact their academic performance. 

Abstract Title: Nanoplastics in the High Arctic: Investigating Phytoplankton Responses and Ecosystem Disruptions

Program: Space Studies

Nanoplastic pollution alters marine ecosystems, yet its impact on primary producers remains unclear. My research investigates how phytoplankton, particularly Arctic algal species, respond to nanoplastic ingestion under extreme environmental conditions. Building on recent studies showing that microplastics disrupt carbon and nitrogen cycles in phytoplankton by altering metabolic pathways, growth rates, and stress responses, I am conducting fieldwork in the High Arctic to track nanoplastic prevalence and its effects on algal populations. My study explores whether phytoplankton experiencing nanoplastic stress exhibit aggregation behaviors, potentially leading to clumping, suffocation, and disruptions in biogeochemical cycles. Combining controlled laboratory experiments with Arctic field sampling, this interdisciplinary approach will help characterize the long-term risks of plastic pollution in polar regions. Understanding these effects is crucial as climate change accelerates ice melt, increasing microplastic exposure in vulnerable marine ecosystems.

• Poster Number 1: Dalton Reitz
• Poster Number 2: Kalie Chambless
• Poster Number 3: Brandon Narum
• Poster Number 4: Kara Buchhop
• Poster Number 5: Nethshan Narasinghe
• Poster Number 6: Ethan Spana
• Poster Number 7: Kaitlyn Gura
• Poster Number 8: Robbie Lunnie
• Poster Number 9: Marielle Korringa
• Poster Number 10: Teckla Njei
• Poster Number 11: Dawn Cleveland
• Poster Number 12: Stacey Skarperud
• Poster Number 13: Ananth Ramaseri
• Poster Number 14: Zhihao Tang
• Poster Number 15: Withdrawn
• Poster Number 16: Andrea Johnson
• Poster Number 17: Njiru Mwaura
• Poster Number 18: Kelsey Klinger
• Poster Number 19: Joseph Langenwalter
• Poster Number 20: Lori Heydt
• Poster Number 21: Samuel Steen
• Poster Number 22: Kate McKinney
• Poster Number 23: Everett Glower
• Poster Number 24: Leisha  Lunnie
• Poster Number 25: Sina Ibne Ahmed
• Poster Number 26: Mohammad Islam
• Poster Number 27: Thomas Iken
• Poster Number 28: Amanda Wilson
• Poster Number 29: Jude Musongong
• Poster Number 30: Yeqian Xu
• Poster Number 31: Lisa Vojacek
• Poster Number 32: Ruiqing Zhang
• Poster Number 33: Zhongling  Zhang 
• Poster Number 34: Blessing Okosun
• Poster Number 35: Nicole Derenne
• Poster Number 36: Faezeh Jafari
• Poster Number 37: Lawson Frey
• Poster Number 38: Allyssa Baumbach
• Poster Number 39: Amrita Das
• Poster Number 40: Giovanni Whyte
• Poster Number 41: Amalie Victoria Joergensen
• Poster Number 42: Cortney Shuley
• Poster Number 43: Lidya Emmanuel Guteta
• Poster Number 44: Alison Rollag
• Poster Number 45: Matthew Johnston
• Poster Number 46: Justin Phillippi
• Poster Number 47: Usama Khand
• Poster Number 48: Parvej Ahmed
• Poster Number 49: Dilini Ekanayake
• Poster Number 50: Sara Tezel
• Poster Number 51: Mina Gholipour
• Poster Number 52: Ashan Fernando
• Poster Number 53: Matt Torgerson
• Poster Number 54: Imteaz Osmani
• Poster Number 55: Torosa Johur
• Poster Number 56: Mason Clobes
• Poster Number 57: Krista Steele
• Poster Number 58: FNU Tabish
• Poster Number 59: Darius NK Quansah 
• Poster Number 60: Jessica Zorn
• Poster Number 61: Rahate Ahmed
• Poster Number 62: Jamal Oakes
• Poster Number 63: Nimasha Samarawickrama
• Poster Number 64: Frannie Tunseth
• Poster Number 65: Katerina Litvanova
• Poster Number 66: Nelofar Nargis
• Poster Number 67: Lacey Anderson 
• Poster Number 68: Duncan Oteki
• Poster Number 69: Bijaya Shrestha
• Poster Number 70: Yanan Zhao
• Poster Number 71: Katy Ries
• Poster Number 72: Mingwei Lei
• Poster Number 73: Sanmi Odeyemi
• Poster Number 74: Samuel Amendolar
• Poster Number 75: Lawrence Anyim
• Poster Number 76: Vladimir Zotov
• Poster Number 77: John LeClerc
• Poster Number 78: Withdrawn
• Poster Number 79: Chidiebele Oraegbuna
• Poster Number 80: Sarah Zacher
• Poster Number 81: Md Jakaria
• Poster Number 82: Pearl Fafa Bansah
• Poster Number 83: Ushan Adhikarige
• Poster Number 84: Darian Sherva
• Poster Number 85: Friday Ebere
• Poster Number 86: Wei Mao
• Poster Number 87: Sonia Tudjeu Chendjou
• Poster Number 88: Matthew Evans
• Poster Number 89: Fatemeh Saberi
• Poster Number 90: Mostafa Manjahi
• Poster Number 91: Sydney Rea
• Poster Number 92: Adewale Ajao
• Poster Number 93: Lucas Hutton
• Poster Number 94: Brogan Lommen-Solig
• Poster Number 95: Boshra Besharatian
• Poster Number 96: Zachary Bailey
• Poster Number 97: Shaylah Anderson
• Poster Number 98: Temitayo Ikuerowo
• Poster Number 99: Carlos Munoz
• Poster Number 100: India Stockert
• Poster Number 101: Mohamed Mahmoud
• Poster Number 102: Mouhmad Elayyan
• Poster Number 103: Chandler Tobeck
• Poster Number 104: Prashant Kumar
• Poster Number 105: Minnie Kalyanasundaram
• Poster Number 106: Bashini Kankanamge
• Poster Number 107: Talia Vazquez
• Poster Number 108: Raja Abubakar Khalid
• Poster Number 109: Bex Cecil
• Poster Number 110: Adelyn Emter
• Poster Number 111: Tanzim Jim Hassan
• Poster Number 112: Lynnlee Rosolino
• Poster Number 113: Morgan Halliday
• Poster Number 114: Mohammad Alam
• Poster Number 115: Jinxuan Guo
• Poster Number 116: Nurcan Kilic
• Poster Number 117: Crystal Lundmark
• Poster Number 118: Mohammad Mazhari Pakenari
• Poster Number 119: Nneka Nwaokeafor
• Poster Number 120: Eugene Oga
• Poster Number 121: Dedan Kusaga
• Poster Number 122: Shafqat Ullah
• Poster Number 123: Christian Abosede
• Poster Number 124: Hyungwoo Jo
• Poster Number 125: Ismail Adebayo
• Poster Number 126: Kavindi Madduma Hewage
• Poster Number 127: Molly Hacker
• Poster Number 128: Ganesha Thondilege
• Poster Number 129: Jordan Giewat
• Poster Number 130: Maria Zaman
• Poster Number 131: Babalola Oni
• Poster Number 132: Cassidy Brown
• Poster Number 133: Yujie Xue
• Poster Number 134: Gabriella Montero
• Poster Number 135: Frank Yeboah
• Poster Number 136: Chiranthi Mahadurage
• Poster Number 137: Mary Moroney-Fernandez
• Poster Number 138: Hasin Rehana
• Poster Number 139: Chandana Perera
• Poster Number 140: Sike Olateru-Olagbegi
• Poster Number 141: Collins Poku Obeng
• Poster Number 142: Godwin Ahiase
• Poster Number 143: Bernard Ussher
• Poster Number 144: Adam Moch
• Poster Number 145: Komal Mangle
• Poster Number 146: Sanjida Kalam
• Poster Number 147: Riswat Musbau
• Poster Number 148: Rachel Qualley
• Poster Number 149: Raphael Noel-Berje
• Poster Number 150: Diane Tangmi
• Poster Number 151: Andrea Doyon
• Poster Number 152: Ibukun Ojo
• Poster Number 153: Anna Nguyen
• Poster Number 154: Tanwa Iwayemi
• Poster Number 155: Kamryn Holtz
• Poster Number 156: Faisal Ahmed
• Poster Number 157: Roland Londe
• Poster Number 158: Muhammad Salahuddin
• Poster Number 159: Esther Addo
• Poster Number 160: Sherry Zeng
• Poster Number 161: Sajib Kapali
• Poster Number 162: Billy Ogada
• Poster Number 163: Devika Panicker
• Poster Number 164: Adesola Adetunji
• Poster Number 165: Ashlyn Herron
• Poster Number 166: Shakila Parvin Bristy
• Poster Number 167: Houdaifa Khalifa
• Poster Number 168: Sabrina Karim
• Poster Number 169: Tiffany Chiu
• Poster Number 170: Ifiok Udoidiok
• Poster Number 171: Chalani Siriwardhana
• Poster Number 172: Jenice Lynch
• Poster Number 173: Farhad Bina
• Poster Number 174: Olajumoke Adewale
• Poster Number 175: Sharmin Rahman
• Poster Number 176: Ashraf Mohammed
• Poster Number 177: Binger Yan
• Poster Number 178: Topaza Yu
• Poster Number 179: Tihitna Mulugeta
• Poster Number 180: Jenna Grindeland
• Poster Number 181: Drew Lenway
• Poster Number 182: Kobena Eghan
• Poster Number 183: Christina Burns
• Poster Number 184: Mohamed Ali
• Poster Number 185: Aaron Cooper
• Poster Number 186: Derrick Agyapong
• Poster Number 187: Anahita Mansouripour
• Poster Number 188: Redeat Kassaye
• Poster Number 189: Herbert Che Mughe
• Poster Number 190: Kathryn Ellingson
• Poster Number 191: Rebecca Frimpomaah
• Poster Number 192: Rabeya Khatun
• Poster Number 193: Istiak Mahmud
• Poster Number 194: Kevin Read
• Poster Number 195: Lilya Bahiri
• Poster Number 196: Tehreem Lashari
• Poster Number 197: Md Ashik Mahamud
• Poster Number 198: Alva Lindstroem
• Poster Number 199: Swaranjit Roy
• Poster Number 200: Mosab Abu Al Foul
• Poster Number 201: Prince Kwao
• Poster Number 202: Vigneshwar Parameshwar
• Poster Number 203: Percy KPODO
• Poster Number 204: Eugene Assuah-Damoah
• Poster Number 205: Grace Agbozo
• Poster Number 206: Jaya Sri Raga Navya Javvaji
• Poster Number 207: Katie Walsh

• Session 1:
  • Poster Number V1-01: Heather McNevin
  • Poster Number V1-02: Sarah Kingsbury
  • Poster Number V1-03: Walter Carroll
  • Poster Number V1-04: Michael Mason
  • Poster Number V1-05: Marcus Banks
  • Poster Number V1-06: Selorm Addom-Tetteh
  • Poster Number V1-07: Kim Berthet 
  • Poster Number V1-08: Sydney Raboin
  • Poster Number V1-09: Anthony Ekpikie
  • Poster Number V1-10: Darrell Mayon
  • Poster Number V1-11: Bethany Johnson
  • Poster Number V1-12: Christina Jones
  • Poster Number V1-13: Sydney Johnson
  • Poster Number V1-14: Amber Scarbrough
• Session 2:
  
  • Poster Number V2-15: Shane Bruski
  • Poster Number V2-16: Carter Singleton
  • Poster Number V2-17: Carly Irwin
  • Poster Number V2-18: Mofe Jeje
  • Poster Number V2-19: Laura Mishne Heller
  • Poster Number V2-20: Allison Hinton
  • Poster Number V2-21: Ellyssa Peterson
  • Poster Number V2-22: Richard Hoberg
  • Poster Number V2-23: Rashid Ahmad
  • Poster Number V2-24: Kayla O'Toole
  • Poster Number V2-25: Kyleen Newman
  • Poster Number V2-26: Angelica Topete
  • Poster Number V2-27: Ethan Jordan
  • Poster Number V2-28: Dennis Trevino