RCAC 2025 Posters

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  Impact of Febrile-Like Stress on Mouse Macrophages

  Domenic Picone and Jasmine Syriac

  The macrophage is a type of white blood cell called a phagocyte that engulfs foreign substances and particles like, bacteria, dead cells, and debris. It then digests them in a process called Macrophage phagocytosis. This process is key to defending the body against pathogens and regulate the inflammation afterward.

  Immunostaining is a technique which uses antibodies to detect specific proteins in cells. This can be used to diagnose health conditions like cancer and other infections. Together, these two methods can be combined to detect the ingested particles inside the macrophage and quantify the phagocytic activity occurring in the cell.

  This project aims to explore the combination of these techniques through our findings in the lab and quantify those results in a cohesive presentation as well as explain how these techniques can be used for to better the health of those in need.

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  "Building the Physically Optimal Offensive Line: A Guide"

  Conor Pierce

  This study aims to first outline the “ideal” parameters for the nordboard and force plate data for each position on the offensive line. From there, there are two options, to either influence recruiting and to focus on prospects that match these profiles, or to take current athletes on the team and try to better mold them to their position and it’s physiological needs. In addition, it can help to establish parameters to help reduce injury risk by position, particularly focusing on the hamstrings (Newton et al, 2006). Knee health is crucial for offensive linemen and the knee braces help, but can help to further reinforce the joints and keep more athletes on the field.

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  Breath Regulation for Enhancing Attention and Task Handling in Executive Function

  Caroline Pongratz and Alex Gajewski

  The present study is aimed at investigating the association between slow-paced breathing and executive functioning in college students with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. The physiological effects of slow-paced breathing were measured using heart rate variability and executive functioning was assessed using a classic response inhibition task known as the Go-No-Go task. A within-subjects study was used to assess how response inhibition changed when a three minute bout of slow-paced breathing preceded the task compared to a control condition. Each participant’s heart rate was measured in a resting state and during the Go/No Go task. During the breathing condition, heart rate was also assessed during the paced breathing bout. Additional assessments were used, such as the Positive And Negative Affect Scale (PANAS), to gather information on the participant’s current state of mind before and after the executive function task.

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  Trafficked and Traumatized: The Hidden Battle for Mental Health Awareness After Exploitation.”

  Mackenzie Potvin

  Sex trafficking is a global issue, resulting in many survivors experiencing profound psychological trauma and struggling to maintain their mental health and well-being. This systematic literature review aims to answer questions regarding the specific psychological effects of sex trafficking on survivors and how effective mental health interventions and support systems are in promoting their recovery. Empirical studies included in the review help answer these questions by highlighting quantitative findings, as well as themes from qualitative interviews with survivors brave enough to share their experiences. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, as well as suicidal thoughts are the main mental health concerns of sex trafficking, according to the literature in this review. The majority of the research suggests the significance of individual, survivor-centered therapies involving trust-building and trauma-informed care that promote the psychological health and well-being of the survivors. These interventions are found to be critical in the care of sex trafficking survivors due to the extreme mental and physical pain and suffering they were forced to endure. With these interventions present, it is with hope that survivors can regain a sense of freedom, learn coping mechanisms, and reconnect with society. This assessment highlights the need for more accessibility of resources, legal advocacy, stigma challenges, and education and outreach for survivors of sex trafficking globally.

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  Adapting Training for Performance: A Body Composition-Based Program Evaluation

  Rece Poulin

  This project is a review of an in-season strength and conditioning program that provides insight into how and why body composition may fluctuate during the course of a men's collegiate ice hockey season. Metrics from a current team are provided as well as other factors that could play a role in how and why these metrics are changing.

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  Animal Noises and Jumbled Words: A Multitasking Test

  Faith Purvis, Hailey Donovan, Emma Patch, and Jenna Sunderland

  Multitasking refers to the engagement in multiple tasks simultaneously or in rapid succession, often resulting in the division of attention and cognitive resources across activities (Alzahabi & Becker, 2013). This experiment aims to explore how visual multitasking (reading a tongue twister while identifying shapes) and auditory multitasking (identifying shapes while hearing distracting animal sounds and having to identify the animal) influence reaction time and accuracy. The first task was to correctly identify a basic shape within an image (square, circle triangle) using a corresponding key on the Superlab program. For the first part this was all the participant had to do. For the second part, at the same time the participant must read aloud a tongue twister on a Macbook. The second experiment had the same shape identification method, but the participant would hear a random animal sound played at random times during the second part of experiment. They had to call out what animal it was when they heard the sound. The reaction times of response to identifying shapes were recorded for both tasks. By comparing the effects of different types of multitasking, the study will provide insights into whether certain forms of interference are more cognitively taxing than others. The hypothesis is that performance on visual identification task will decrease when paired with another visual task or while experiencing auditory stimuli.

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  A Comparative Analysis of the DESSA-SSESE Screener & Traditional Referral System for SEL Needs

  Ashley Rapoza

  This project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of two referral systems used in a suburban public school to identify students in need of Social Emotional support along with a way to track their progress. The old referral system was hand created and used in 2019-2022 and the new screener was implemented in 2023. The school is currently in the second pilot year of the new strength based assessment. This project investigates whether the new screener is an effective tool for measuring students' needs and improvements. Using student outcome data from both the “old referral system” and the new system examines students' social and emotional growth. The findings suggest that the new screening system is more effective at identifying student needs as well as monitoring progress toward social and emotional goals.

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  Developing a Comprehensive Readiness Assessment for U.S. Soldiers

  Dorothy Reil

  Developing a readiness assessment that looks at physical, psychoogical, biopsycho-social factors to determine soldier readiness to help prevent injury.

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  Investigating Doping Effects in High Entropy Alloys for Enhanced Mechanical Properties

  Chris Rincon

  We are exploring the impact of doping elements on the microstructural and mechanical properties of high entropy alloys (HEAs) using computational modeling techniques. This research aims to optimize the composition of HEAs to achieve superior strength and ductility, with potential applications in advanced engineering materials.

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  VEX Senior Design Spring 2025

  Chris Rincon, Lucas Sherriff-Streng, Samantha Fagundes, Rebecca Linane, Nathan Lajeunesse, and Nicholas Tessitore

  This senior design project involved the design, construction, and competitive evaluation of VEX robots by mechanical engineering students. Teams applied fundamental engineering principles to systematically plan, analyze, and simulate robot performance prior to fabrication. Utilizing CAD modeling, structural analysis, and iterative prototyping, students optimized robot mechanisms to achieve efficiency and robustness. Completed robots were subsequently tested through direct competition at the university-hosted robotics event in February, demonstrating practical effectiveness, durability, and competitive success. This experiential approach emphasized not only technical proficiency in robotics but also teamwork, strategic problem-solving, and the integration of mechanical design with real-world constraints and requirements.

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  Moving Students Toward Adulthood

  Cassandra Rio

  Within the past few decades, higher education has drastically expanded, which has created an ongoing problem regarding the length of time it takes young adults to reach economic and social maturity (Berlin et al., 2010). This notable shift of moving from adolescence to adulthood continues to be delayed due to higher education involvement in young adults' lives (Berlin et al., 2010). Young adults take “more time to gain independence from their families and establish themselves in adult roles,” and higher education is to blame (Berlin et al., 2010, p. 4). This creates a lingering problem: higher education is delaying adulthood, but college degrees are needed to obtain a well-paying job, additionally, “employers have been increasingly reluctant to hire young people without educational credentials” (Berlin et al., 2010, p. 4). Education is becoming the source of a successful life and social stratification, but it is delaying adulthood and creating emerging societal patterns that were not a problem decades ago (Berlin et al., 2010). The progression of this phenomenon is shaped by institutions and the professionals within them. Therefore, the overarching goal of this project is to educate practitioners through a workshop series about the importance of moving students toward adulthood.

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  The Egg Hunt

  Angela Rios, Ryan Dunn, and Julia Watson

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  Access Denied: How Bathroom Discrimination and School Policies Impact Transgender and Nonbinary Students' Mental Health

  Alexa C. Rockwell

  Transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) youth experience unique challenges in the school setting, particularly regarding access to gender-affirming spaces and inclusive policies. In the United States of America, there are significant disparities between states in policies regarding TGNB inclusion, as some states require protective policies while others implement restrictive measures that prohibit gender-affirming practices. This systematic literature review examines the relationship between bathroom discrimination, school policies, and the mental health of TGNB students. Drawing upon the findings of 20 empirical studies, this review explores how restrictive or affirming school policies impact the psychological well-being and overall sense of belonging for TGNB youth. Findings indicate that schools with gender-inclusive policies and access to gender-affirming restrooms are associated with better mental health outcomes for TGNB students, while discriminatory practices lead to a decrease in mental health and academic engagement. This review highlights the need for policy changes to foster a safer and more supportive school environment for TGNB youth.

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  The Importance and Reform of On-Site Mental Health Services in Long Term Care

  Madison Sanborn

  Due to life expectancy being prolonged and birth rates declining, the older adult population is growing rapidly. Along with this growth, mental health concerns are becoming more widespread which in turn creates a heightened need for long term care (LTC) and its services. However, evidence suggests that LTC facilities are not adequately meeting the needs of this population concerning quality mental health care.

  This project, in the form of a needs assessment, explores the importance and reform of on-site mental health services in LTC facilities. This assessment will be evaluating the need for interventions in the mental health workforce, state and federal policies and in LTC facilities in order to implement mental health services on-site. To collect the information needed, three key informant interviews were conducted with professionals in the LTC and mental health industries as well as secondary data from various research databases including peer-reviewed articles and MA and federal legal research databases.

  Conclusions can be drawn that the lack of on-site mental health services is a multi-faceted problem that stems from workforce challenges, health policies and the perceptions of mental health that the senior population has that is ultimately resulting in several barriers for on-site mental health services to be implemented. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to bring awareness and advocate for this pressing issue now in order to protect current and future residents in LTC so that they can prosper and reach their full potential in health and wellbeing.

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  Psychological Distress due to Cultural Stress, Family Relationships, and Family Obligations within First Generation Hispanic/Latinx College Students

  Carolina Santana

  The Hispanic/Latinx population in the U.S. has grown significantly over the years, with college enrollment among individuals aged 18–24 increasing steadily since 2000. However, first-generation Hispanic/Latinx students face unique challenges that contribute to lower college completion rates compared to other groups. These challenges often stem from cultural stressors, family dynamics, and family responsibilities, which can negatively affect both mental health and academic success.

  Cultural stressors arise when students try to balance their cultural identity with the expectations of American educational institutions. Many colleges fail to recognize the pressure that comes from navigating two cultures, experiencing discrimination, and managing conflicting values. Family relationships also play a significant role. Parents of first-generation students, who may not have attended college themselves, often lack the experience and understanding needed to support their children through the demands of higher education. This disconnect can leave students feeling isolated and overwhelmed.

  In addition to emotional stress, many first-generation Hispanic/Latinx students face financial and caregiving responsibilities at home. Coming from low-income households, they are often expected to work or care for siblings while managing their academic workload. These additional pressures make it harder for them to focus on their studies and succeed academically. Without proper institutional support and a better understanding of these cultural and family-based challenges, it becomes difficult for Hispanic/Latinx first-generation students to thrive in higher education.

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  Looking Beyond the Diagnosis: Understanding Attribution in Cardiac Rehab Adherence

  Catherine Schultz

  This Capstone project has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to improving CR participation by identifying key facilitators and barriers through qualitative analysis. By understanding the lived experiences of patients, including the psychosocial and logistical factors that influence their decisions to participate or drop out, tailored interventions can be designed to remove these obstacles. Previous studies suggest that integrating family support, remote or home-based rehabilitation options, and incorporating psychosocial support into CR programs can significantly improve adherence rates (Fraser et al., 2022; Hughes et al., 2022). The findings from this study can inform the development of more accessible, patient-centered CR programs that are not only effective but also sustainable for individuals across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. This approach could ultimately reduce the long-term health burden of cardiovascular diseases and improve the overall quality of life for patients nationwide.

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  Understanding Psychological Barriers to Strength Training in Endurance Athletes

  Makenzie Schussler

  Endurance athletes, such as runners, cyclists, and swimmers, often avoid strength training despite its proven benefits for performance, injury prevention, and recovery. This reluctance is largely driven by psychological factors, including misconceptions about muscle growth, task aversion, and low motivation. Many endurance athletes believe that strength training could interfere with their primary goal of improving aerobic endurance, and they often associate it with unnecessary weight gain or loss of endurance. These misconceptions are compounded by a general dislike or anxiety toward weightlifting, which can lead to avoidance or procrastination. According to self-determination theory, athletes may also resist strength training if they feel it is not aligned with their intrinsic needs for competence, autonomy, and relatedness. This paper examines these psychological barriers and discusses how they hinder endurance athletes from adopting strength training. It highlights how cognitive-behavioral strategies and providing athletes with more control over their training choices can help overcome these challenges. The paper also emphasizes that integrating strength training into endurance athletes’ routines could improve performance, reduce injury risks, and enhance recovery. Addressing these psychological barriers is key to helping endurance athletes fully benefit from strength training. Future research and interventions should focus on changing perceptions and motivating athletes to incorporate strength training into their training programs for optimal results.

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  Strength & Conditioning for Artistic Sports: Cheerleading, Dance and Gymnastics

  Livia Serak

  Through conducting interviews with various coaches and athletes that have either worked or participated in cheerleading, dance or gymnastics, I gathered data to support the need for more of an emphasis on strength and conditioning for these athletes. Due to the varying degrees of the sports where gymnastics is recognized at the varsity level and cheer/dance are considered club sports, this interferes with access to various resources on campus which may be needed to further support their athleticism and injury prevention. Additionally, each of these sports shares a unique perspective on what strength and conditioning means to them and the relevance to their sport. Overall, I am looking to promote the health and well being of these artistic athletes and see where improvements can be made so that they can become the best athletes they can be in addition to those athletes that participate in mainstream sports.

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  Giemsa staining revealed differences in cell cycle between normal diploid and cancer cells

  Dalia Silva

  This study investigated the differences in cell division stages between normal and cancer human cells. Specifically, normal diploid retinal epithelial cells, hTERT-immortalized female retinal pigment epithelial cell line, hTERT RPE-1, were derived by transfecting the RPE-340 cell line with the pGRN145 hTERT-expressing plasmid (ATCC MBA-141) and served as control. Additionally, HeLa cells, female epithelial cells isolated from adenocarcinoma tumor (ATCC-CCL2), the first immortal human cells to be grown in culture, were analyzed as an example of cancer cells. The results suggest remarkable differences in mitotic index and defects during mitosis.

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  Rethinking the Massachusetts College and Career Readiness (CCR) Curriculum: Gaps in Support and Recommended Accommodations for Students with Intellectual Disabilities

  Amanda Snow

  This project seeks to fill a void in college and career readiness resources for students with intellectual disabilities. The Massachusetts College and Career Readiness (CCR) MyCAP template, recommendations from ASCA, MASCA, DESE, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) will be referenced to create an adapted curriculum. The project is driven by the need for such a resource in an urban middle school. Currently, the school offers general education students CCR lessons, but no such curriculum is available for students with intellectual disabilities. The final project includes recommended instructional lessons in the three CCR domains: personal/social, career development and education, and academic college and career planning. These lessons are sequenced, meet instructional needs of the students, and provide opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities to explore careers and postsecondary plans.

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  Barriers to School Readiness for Young Children in Foster Care: A Systematic Literature Review of Evidence-Based Interventions

  Kaitlyn Sok

  Children in foster care often face unique barriers to school readiness, like poor health, frequent transitions, and adverse childhood experiences (Tordön et al., 2020). These barriers increase the likelihood of mental and behavioral challenges, which can impact school performance (Sears, 2023). Early childhood is a critical period for young children to develop academic, social, and emotional skills to foster school readiness. Young children are overrepresented in the foster care system, and school professionals need to understand how to support their needs. Children spend the majority of their time in school, which makes it a practical environment for them to receive support (Lynch et al., 2017). This systematic literature review examines recent studies to evaluate evidence-based interventions that will be effective in mitigating the barriers to school readiness. The articles reviewed separate interventions into three main categories, including trauma-informed care, early childhood programs, and cognitive behavioral therapy. The results can identify evidence-based interventions that can promote quality care and school readiness among this vulnerable population. Furthermore, policy and practice implications will be discussed to improve education outcomes for children in foster care.

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  Measuring the Hidden Vitamin: Folic Acid Quantification in Milk via HPLC and LC-MS-MS

  Nicholas Spinale and Justin Sensale

  Quantification of folic acid in milk samples using analytical methods with HPLC, LC-MS, LC-MS-MS, ELISA. Testing folic acid levels in various dairy and non-dairy milk samples. Conducting analysis of overall levels of folic acid (vitamin B9) among the 20+ types of milk.

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  My Experience Interning at the Lawrence Court Service Center

  Caroline Steele

  This past semester, I participated in an internship with the Court Service Center at the Lawrence location. I attended in-person, two days a week, beginning in January. My internship primarily involved me helping litigants who do not have access to an attorney with filling out court documents. Additionally, I often provided court users with general legal information as well as pointed them towards community and legal resources that may be of benefit to them. I even got to experience sitting in on both civil and criminal hearings, allowing me to gain an understanding of these types of court proceedings. This internship allotted me the opportunity to learn about the court system, while greatly improving my communication and writing skills.

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  The Neurodevelopmental Cost of Addiction: Parental Substance Use and Its Effects on Emotional Regulation and attachment in Children

  Meghan Stratton

  This systematic literature review explores how parental substance use during early childhood (ages 0-5) influences emotional regulation and attachment development. Consistent and responsive caregiving is critical for fostering secure attachment, but parental substance use can disrupt this responsiveness. This review examines how inconsistent caregiving, neglect, and impaired emotional regulation contribute to the development of insecure attachment patterns, including avoidant, anxious, and disorganized attachment.The study also investigates how early attachment disruptions impact a child's emotional regulation, potentially leading to heightened stress responses, difficulty with self-soothing, and increased risks of anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges. This review aims to bridge gaps in the literature and promote secure attachment and emotional resilience in children affected by parental substance use

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  Personality through Playlists

  Jenna Sunderland

  The purpose of this study is to research the correlation between musical preferences and different personality traits of Merrimack College undergraduate students (ages 18 and older). Each participant will complete a Big 5 test then answer questions based on their musical preferences. The results will help researchers understand if there is a correlation between a person's personality and the type of music that they listen to.