18th Annual Undergraduate Scholars in Action Days

Teach a Raccoon to Fish
Subject:  Multimedia (Computer and Information Sciences)
Presenters: Chad Toussaint
Faculty Sponsor:  Harold InDelicato

This is an animation about a sneaky raccoon attempting to steal a fish (character animation). See visuals.

Social media & mental health visual gallery
Subject:  Multimedia (Sports Biology)
Presenters: Ian Torres, Keeley Joyal & Luke Doraz
Faculty Sponsor:  Chris Hakala

This presentation Is a culmination of individual works of original art created by each presenter, and factual evidence based information about specific topics on how social media affects mental health in our society. The goal of this presentation is to bring up this topic. To invoke emotions or thoughts in the audience, so they can better connect to the topic within their own lives. Then to talk about each topic to enlighten the audience on these topics that they just connected to and spread awareness of these important social issues.

Weiser 100
Subject:  Multimedia 
Presenters: Nicholas Storlazzi, Daniel Johnson, Luke Whitehouse & Alberto Martinez-Gonzales
Faculty Sponsor:  Fadia Nordtviet

Description: This multimedia feature takes us through the 100 year journey of Weiser Hall in the campus of Springfield College from 1922-2022.

Gym
Subject:  Multimedia
Presenters: Carsyn Viner, Nicholas Storlazzi, Daniel Johnson, Luke Whitehouse & Alberto Martinez-Gonzales
Faculty Sponsor:  Harold InDelicato

House
Subject:  Multimedia
Presenters: Chris Sanabria
Faculty Sponsor:  Harold InDelicato

The Girl, The Book, and the Locket
Subject:  Multimedia
Presenters: Noel Bollenbach
Faculty Sponsor:  Harold InDelicato

Patella-Femoral Pain Syndrome in a 21 y/o Lacrosse Athlete  
Subject:  Clinical Case Study (Athletic Training)
Presenters: Emma Slater
Faculty Sponsor: Matt Mills

Background: Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFP) is a overuse condition among active young adolescents, with females being at a higher risk than males (Halachi et al., 2017). PFP involves inflammation surrounding the patella and musculature (Bolgla et al., 2018), PFP is noticed as an ache behind the kneecap that progresses into a sharp pain (Collado et al., 2010). There may be occasional swelling associated with PFP, but it is uncommon for a large amount of effusion to the area (Collado et al., 2010). PFP is typically caused due to an underlying instability issue associated with improper quadriceps firing (Halachi et al., 2017, Collado et al., 2017).

Case Presentation: P: A 21-year-old female lacrosse athlete reported to the clinic following practice with right medial knee pain that worsened through practice. The athlete couldn't recall a mechanism of injury (MOI) but mentioned it felt worse cutting during practice. The patient stated it was especially painful when bending the knee to go upstairs. Upon evaluation, a large amount of swelling to the anterior medial aspect of the kneecap was observed. The patient was tender to palpate over the medial aspect of the anterior patella, and the patella had a significant lateral tilt and plica. The range of motion (ROM) was WNL, resistive knee extension SPL. Lachman’s, Varus, Valgus, and Anterior Drawer special tests were all negative. I: Following the examination, ice was used to help with inflammation and pain, and the patient was given a compression sleeve. The athlete was instructed to return to the clinic daily. Once the swelling and pain decreased, and the patient began activating the VMO via quad sets, a rehab program was initiated to strengthen the quadriceps and lower body stretching. C: A patient with PFP can continue competing if the pain and swelling are managed through different intervention techniques such as modalities, tapings, and rehabilitation. It is essential that when returning a patient with PFP to sports, symptoms are monitored daily via girth measurements; and pain scales to ensure there is no increase in worsening of symptoms. O:  Upon starting the rehabilitation program, the patient continuously progressed and started a return-to-sport (RTS). The RTS was initiated after the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) activation was consistent and firm with reduced pain and effusion to the affected area. The patient was held from lacrosse for a period of about 3 weeks due to prolonged swelling after completing a high-intensity conditioning workout. After the flare-up of PFP following the conditioning workout, the patient's swelling and pain were once again controlled, and rehabilitation exercises were introduced. The patient returned to sport with timing and exercise limitations. Conclusions: Surgical options can be considered in failed rehabilitation programs, or if severe lateral patella compression or instability is noted (Halabchi et al. 2017). The patient reported pain with knee flexion and walking stairs, which are common findings in patients with PFP syndrome. The unique presentation from the patient is how the patient is older than the ages commonly affected by PFP and the large amount of increased effusion in the area.

Clinical Bottom Line:  In the event of traumatic knee pain and effusion, PFP should be considered within the differentials. It will be crucial for the athlete to maintain a consistent rehab program and maintain any fair-ups when they occur.  

References:
Bolgla, L. A., Boling, M. C., Mace, K. L., DiStefano, M. J., Fithian, D. C., & Powers, C. M. (2018). National Athletic Trainers' Association position statement: Management of individuals with Patellofemoral Pain. Journal of Athletic Training, 53(9), 820–836. https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-231-15 
Collado, H., & Fredericson, M. (2010). Patellofemoral pain syndrome. Clinics in Sports Medicine, 29(3), 379–398. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.csm.2010.03.012 
Halabchi, F., Abolhasani, M., Mirshahi, M., & Alizadeh, Z. (2017). Patellofemoral pain in athletes: Clinical perspectives. Open Access Journal of Sports Medicine, Volume 8, 189–203. https://doi.org/10.2147/oajsm.s127359 

Jersey Finger in a 20-Year-Old Male Football Player
Subject:  Clinical Case Study (Athletic Training)
Presenters: Lauren Bednarczyk
Faculty Sponsor: Matt Mills

Background: Jersey finger is a distal avulsion of the flexor digitorum profundus tendon from the insertion point (Abrego & Shamrock, 2021). Typically, jersey finger happens from a forced extension of a flexed and is very common in contact sports such as football and rugby (Abrego & Shamrock, 2021). The finger is made up of 3 joints: metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and distal phalangeal which act as a pulley system (Pursley & Collins, 2021).  The pulley system prevents the tendons from bowstringing when the fingers are in flexion (Freilich, 2015). Tendons in the fingers get nutrients from the blood supply inside the mesotendon (Abrego & Shamrock, 2021). The patient presented with a dislocation of the 4th PIP on the left hand. The finger was relocated by ATC at the site and patient was removed from competition. Pt was sent out for diagnostic imaging where no present fracture was found. Through the healing process, flexion deformity of IP never resolved, and movement/function decreased.

Case Presentation: The patient presented with a dislocation of the 4th PIP on the left hand. The finger was relocated by ATC at the site and patient was removed from competition. . Patient was placed into a splint then buddy taped together. Pt was sent out for diagnostic imaging where no present fracture was found. Through the healing process, flexion deformity of IP never resolved, and movement/function decreased. The patient was able to participate through the rest of the season after x-ray was found to be negative for a fracture. The flexion deformity of the figure was never resolved, and the patient was sent out to a hand specialist. MRI confirmed torn flexor tendon. The patient plans to go to occupational therapy to increase range of motion then have surgery to fix the avulsed flexor digitorum profundus tendon. After surgery, traditional treatment is working on improving ROM (Drummey & Ilyas, 2021).  Conclusions: Typically, when a patient has a jersey finger, their injured finger will remain in an extended position compared to the other digits (Abrego & Shamrock, 2021). Ultrasound or MRI is useful in seeing the integrity of the FDP (Freilich, 2015). The most common treatment for jersey finger is surgery (Abrego & Shamrock, 2021). Depending on whether or not there is a fracture involved will determine what type of surgery will be conducted (Drummey & IIyas, 2021).

Clinical Bottom Line: It is essential that a diagnosis be determined in order for blood supply and function can be restored. Fast recovery leads to a return to baseline functionality for ROM (Abrego & Shamrock, 2021). Typically, this injury presents by a forced hyperextension of the flexed digit (Abrego & Shamrock, 2021). This case had a slightly different mechanism of injury as the patient dislocated his finger, causing the flexor digitorum profundus tendon avulsion. The importance of this case was realizing that when the digit did not get better from the original dislocation, it was later re-diagnosis with jersey finger. The main takeaway from this case was to determine if there is secondary injury present from the event of finger dislocation. If there is a secondary injury present then an additional intervention will be needed. 

Discoid Meniscus in an 18-Year-Old Wrestler: A Case Study
Subject:  Clinical Case Study (Athletic Training)
Presenters: Acadia Harding and Astin Sesoko
Faculty Sponsor: Matt Mills

Background: A discoid meniscus is a malformation of cartilage most often in the lateral meniscus most common in adolescent males (Sabbag et al., 2018). Discoid menisci are difficult to detect due to their typical asymptomatic presentation having an incidence of 0.4%-17% (Kim et al., 2016). Occurring from a developmental anomaly prior to birth, a discoid meniscus often remains asymptomatic until a lateral meniscus tear occurs (Kim et al., 2016).

Case Presentation: An 18 year old male wrestler presented with right knee pain localized to the lateral joint line with occasional clicking and catching that was exacerbated with lateral movements, climbing stairs, and physical activity. The patient reported a history of a right lateral meniscus tear with meniscectomy in 2019. He characterized his pain as intermittently sharp and deep. Patient was tender to palpation over the lateral joint line, with no significant effusion. ROM assessment revealed pain with AROM knee extension and knee flexion, as well as 4+/5 strength with quadriceps MMT. Thessaly’s, Apley’s Compression, varus stress and straight leg raise (SLR) special tests were positive for pain. Additionally, McMurray’s was positive for pain in  deep knee flexion and external rotation indicative of laterally located meniscus tear. Based on the clinical exam a lateral meniscus tear was suspected. Patient was referred to the team physician for further evaluation where a MRI was ordered and rehabilitation was initiated. MRI revealed a discoid lateral meniscus with possible cyst in the femoral condyle, and a lateral meniscus tear was not found. A thickened medial plica was also found but was determined to not be the cause of pain.

Conclusions: Despite a textbook presentation for a lateral meniscal tear, MRI ruled out a meniscal tear and diagnosed a discoid meniscus and femoral condyle cyst. The literature suggests that the incidence of a lateral discoid meniscus is around 2%-5% (Sabbag et al., 2018). Presence of a discoid meniscus is a predisposing factor for complex degenerative meniscus tears requiring surgical intervention (Saavedra et al., 2020).

Clinical Bottom Line: In evaluating adolescent males who present with symptoms consistent with lateral meniscus tears, clinicians should include a discoid meniscus in their differential plan. It is important to consider all possible differentials when conducting an evaluation and not overlook the importance of diagnostic image. MRI remains the gold standard for diagnosing discoid lateral meniscus, the “bow-tie sign” being the key radiologic feature to rule in a discoid menisci (Kim et al., 2016). 

References:
Kim, J. G., Han, S. W., & Lee, D. H. (2016). Diagnosis and Treatment of Discoid Meniscus. 
Knee surgery & related research, 28(4), 255–262. https://doi.org/10.5792/ksrr.16.050
Saavedra, M., Sepúlveda, M., Jesús Tuca, M., & Birrer, E. (2020). Discoid meniscus: current 
concepts. EFORT open reviews, 5(7), 371–379. https://doi.org/10.1302/2058-5241.5. 190023
Sabbag, O. D., Hevesi, M., Sanders, T. L., Camp, C. L., Dahm, D. L., Levy, B. A., Stuart, M. J., 
& Krych, A. J. (2018). Incidence and Treatment Trends of Symptomatic Discoid Lateral Menisci: An 18-Year Population-Based Study. Orthopaedic journal of sports medicine, 6(9), 2325967118797886. https://doi.org/10.1177/2325967118797886

Uncharacterized D. Melanogaster Gene CG7601 Relating to  H. Sapiens Paralogs of DHRS7
Subject:  Science (Biology/Chemistry)
Presenters: Samantha Przybylski
Faculty Sponsor: Chris Abdullah

Abstract:    CG7601 is a gene that is found in Drosophila melanogaster. It is an unknown gene, so in order to find out information about it, we had to look at the homologs of the gene in humans which were the  DHRS7B or DHRS7C  genes. In order to find similarities, the CG7601 and DHRS7B genes’ DNA and mRNA needed to be aligned. After aligning them, we observed that all three genes are enzymes that are a part of the short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase enzyme superfamilies, SDR. Both homologs are still very unknown though. Researching the fly gene, CG7601, to see if it had a specific disease or mutation related to it, there was nothing that showed up. So, to find out more information, it was necessary to look up the human homolog genes. There have been previous studies on mostly the DHRS7C gene. Some researchers have found that it may have connections with prostate cancer, heart failure, and/or cardiac hypertrophy. Specifically in humans, this group of enzymes are involved in metabolism of compounds such as: steroid hormones, prostaglandins, retinoids, lipids and xenobiotics. One study found that the functional loss of DHRS7C causes Ca2+ overload in the cytosol and ER/SR. Therefore, DHRS7C maintains intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis involving the ER/SR. The researchers found that DHRS7C is down-regulated regarding adrenergic stimulation. All of this information can help other researchers find out if there could be mutations with this fly gene, CG7601. 

Uncharacterized Drosophila Gene CG8230 Shows Similarities to Human Ortholog.
Subject:  Science (Sports Biology)
Presenters: Connor Moniz
Faculty Sponsor: Chris Abdullah

Abstract:  Uncharacterized Drosophila melanogaster gene CG 17712 is a gene that codes for an enzyme protein. This protein is predicted to be an ortholog to human genes GFOD1 and GFOD2, GFOD stands for Glucose Fructose Oxidoreductase Domain. The human ortholog genes are predicted to have diverged from the same ancestor as the D. melanogaster which diverged first, then GFOD split into GFOD1 and 2, which are both present in several species including humans. The NCBI BLAST website was used to align two sequences or search specific species for similar sequences to find potential orthologs. The D. melanogaster DNA, mRNA and protein sequences were aligned with the human equivalents to quantify percent identity between the ortholog sequences. The NCBI BLAST tool also produced visual alignments to show where the query sequence fell within the entire genome or protein sequence. These enzymes function as oxidoreductase enzymes in human metabolism. Their predicted activity is in the dehydrogenation of NADPH to NADP+. The human ortholog gene expression levels are associated with human diseases and disorders, primarily Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Further research needs to be conducted to confirm these associations as well as determine ways in which D. melanogaster can be utilized to further examine these associations.

Large similarities shown between uncharacterized D. melanogaster gene CG4849 and H. sapiens gene EFTUD2. 
Subject:  Science (Biology/Chemistry)
Presenters: Sierra Murray
Faculty Sponsor: Chris Abdullah

Abstract:  CG4849, present in Drosophila melanogaster, is an uncharacterized gene. The NCBI website was used to BLAST the DNA, RNA, and protein sequences for the gene and used in order to create primers that will be used to try to amplify the gene in Drosophila. Using the sequences and creating alignments in the T-Coffee platform determined that CG4849 has an orthologous gene in Homo sapiens named EFTUD2. EFTUD2 is a gene that is already known to encode u5-116kD, a highly conserved spliceosomal GTPase. This U5 protein is known to be a part of the U4/U6 x U5 tri-snRNP, which is a small ribonucleoprotein complex.This complex is a spliceosome where the U5 protein plays an important role in the GTPbinding, GTPase activity, and the translation elongation factor. When deletion, frameshift, nonsense, or other forms of mutations occur in the gene, esophageal atresia or a disorder called mandibulofacial dysostosis, Guion-Almeida type may occur in the individual. The phenotype of this disorder is characterized by progressive microcephaly, micrognathia, microtia, midface and malar hypoplasia, dysplastic ears, preauricular skin tags, and speech and developmental delay. Although this mainly affects osteocyte differentiation and there are no bones in Drosophila melanogaster, abnormalities still may be applicable to the fruit fly via its effects on chondrocyte differentiation instead. Future research is needed in order to determine how mutations of CG4849 affect the viability of Drosophila melanogaster, and if viable, how mutation would affect the phenotype and general functionality of the fly.

Uncharacterized Drosophila Gene CG17712 Shows Large Similarity to Human Paralogs
Subject:  Science (Biology/Chemistry)
Presenters: Samantha Paradis
Faculty Sponsor: Chris Abdullah

Abstract:  Uncharacterized Drosophila melanogaster gene CG 17712 is a gene that codes for an enzyme protein. This protein is predicted to be an ortholog to human genes GFOD1 and GFOD2, GFOD stands for Glucose Fructose Oxidoreductase Domain. The human ortholog genes are predicted to have diverged from the same ancestor as the D. melanogaster which diverged first, then GFOD split into GFOD1 and 2, which are both present in several species including humans. The NCBI BLAST website was used to align two sequences or search specific species for similar sequences to find potential orthologs. The D. melanogaster DNA, mRNA and protein sequences were aligned with the human equivalents to quantify percent identity between the ortholog sequences. The NCBI BLAST tool also produced visual alignments to show where the query sequence fell within the entire genome or protein sequence. These enzymes function as oxidoreductase enzymes in human metabolism. Their predicted activity is in the dehydrogenation of NADPH to NADP+. The human ortholog gene expression levels are associated with human diseases and disorders, primarily Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Further research needs to be conducted to confirm these associations as well as determine ways in which D. melanogaster can be utilized to further examine these associations.

Comparison between uncharacterized protein CG8569 Drosophila melanogaster and its human ortholog zinc finger MYND domain-containing protein 11 isoform g
Subject:  Science (Biology)
Presenters: Jana Dulovic
Faculty Sponsor: Chris Abdullah

Abstract:  CG8569 is an unknown gene found in fruit flies. It was compared to its human ortholog, characterized for its mental, and growth retardation with a detection rate of cryptic unbalanced chromosomal rearrangements. It is also predicted to enable methylated histone binding activity and be located in the nucleus. This gene was blasted for both nucleotides and proteins, finding FASTA sequences of the gene, the mRNA and the protein. The sequences were then aligned finding the percent identity, location, gaps, etc.; finding similarities and differences amongst sequence alignments between the fruit gene and its human ortholog. The amino acids on each sequence have different sizes and charges which affect how similar the sequences actually are. These were found to have a percent identity of around 35%. It was also learned more in depth about PCR techniques (qPCR, RT-PCR, etc), how it’s used to amplify DNA, and measure mRNA levels (gene expression). Another important aspect to the project was learning how to design Forward and Reverse primers to amplify genes, keeping in mind that the length should be 18 to 30 base pairs, the melting temperature (Tm) between 50-64 °C, have a GC content of 35-65%, have no more than 3 consecutive G residues, and have a difference of no more than 2°C in Tm between both primers. Apart from this, the phylogenetic sequences of the fly gene were compared to other organism orthologs (such as plants) finding the comparisons between each and then gathering all that information in order to make a phylogenetic tree to better understand the origin and connection of each. Finally, the protein structures of this human gene were found, further investigating any genetic disorders, common mutations, etc. observed in its genome.

Uncharacterized Drosophila gene CG8611 shows large similarity to human gene DDX31
Subject:  Science (Biology/Chemistry)
Presenters: Danielle Fernandes
Faculty Sponsor: Chris Abdullah

Abstract:    Drosophila melanogaster, commonly known as the fruit fly, has thousands of genes within its genome although there is not much information regarding the genes, specifically CG8611. By using the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) Database it was found that gene CG8611 is a homolog to the human gene Dead-Box Helicase 31 (DDX31). When the DNA of the fly gene and the human gene were blasted there were no similarities found until the protein sequences were aligned. When comparing the protein sequences using BLASTp and Clustal Omega, out of the fly, humans, corn, dog, western clawed frog, emperor penguin, peregrine falcon, and rhesus monkey, the alignments showed the fruit fly has the most similarities to corn. When using Clustal Omega, the alignments showed the deletions, mutations, and similarities. DDX31 has an expression issue, where if it is upregulated it causes Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) and low expression, the normal, is what is found in normal human tissues. CG8611 itself is involved in ribosome biogenesis, which causes the biosynthesis of constituents of macromolecules. CG8611 and DDX31 share two protein domains, Deadc_DDx31 and PTZ00110 super family. There are similarities between the two showing the evolution of life. There are similarities between the two organisms but not as many as one would assume, which makes people wonder why these flies are used to study human cancers, and are one of the most commonly used model organisms in biomedical science. In the end, CG8611 and DDX31 have many similarities found within the protein sequences which is the information for the genes to perform as they should.

Comparing Drosophila melanogaster gene CG15356 with homologs such as Human EMSY
Subject:  Science (Biology/Chemistry)
Presenters: David Handron
Faculty Sponsor:  Chris Abdullah

Abstract:  CG15356 is a gene found in Drosophila melanogaster and has orthologs in other species. Using a blasting program, I aligned the DNA of Drosophila against humans and found some small similarities. An open reading frame (ORF) finder is a tool that can be used to determine which sections of DNA that code for a protein. Using an ORF finder, I found the introns vs exons and removed the introns to create the sequence or RNA responsible for coding the proteins. I blasted the RNA, and found no similarities; however, when I blasted the protein sequence produced by the RNA, they were very similar. We designed primers to attempt to amplify the DNA, but not RNA, as well as the RNA, but not DNA through PCR testing. Comparing The protein sequences to animals of differing similarity, no matches were found in organisms that are genetically different like yeast, frogs, corn, and cress. The organisms in this group should be the most different genetically from D. melanogaster The conserved domains on the protein structures were also different between Drosophila and humans, leading me to conclude that this gene differentiated fairly early in fruit flies, leading to the differences between Drosophila and other organisms. In humans, its homolog is known as EMSY and is used in the regulation of transcription of DNA. It interacts with BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are frequently involved with the generation of breast cancers in both males and females.

The Effect of Sleep Deprivation on Increased Risk of Injury in Adolescent Athletes
Subject:  Critical Interpretation Project (Health Sciences)
Presenters: Heather Jennato
Faculty Sponsor: Pamela Higgins

Abstract: Over 38 million adolescents participate in sports in the United States, and more than 3.5 million adolescents receive medical treatment for sports-related injuries per year. A possible exposure that might increase the risk of injury is sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation has been found to have wide-ranging effects on sports performance, but there has been evidence relating suboptimal sleep with an increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries. It has been found that seven hours of sleep or less has consistently been found with an increased risk of injury. This literature review aims to examine the risk of sports injuries after exposure to sleep deprivation. A complete search of the literature regarding sleep deprivation and musculoskeletal injuries in adolescent student-athletes was done on two databases, resulting in nine articles after the inclusion criteria were met. Almost all studies found a positive association between sleep deprivation and musculoskeletal injuries. After adjusting for cofounders like pain and preexisting chronic injuries, statistical significance was lost in three of the nine. Sleep deprivation does seem to be associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries among adolescent athletes. It is encouraged to remind athletes to get optimal sleep to protect them from injuries. Despite the evidence that sleep deprivation increases the risk of musculoskeletal injury, more extensive research needs to be done with sleep deprivation being the primary exposure to assess the link between the two.

Blood Flow Restriction Training on Sarcopenia and Muscle Wasting
Subject:   Critical Interpretation Project ( Applied Exercise Science)
Presenters:Julia Rosa and Brandon Chu
Faculty Sponsor: Elizabeth O'Neill

Abstract: Skeletal muscle wasting and sarcopenia are conditions characterized by a loss of muscle mass and strength. These conditions are prominent in populations with prolonged immobility and elderly populations, providing a challenge to daily functioning. Traditional, high-intensity resistance training has been shown to improve muscular strength and mass; however, training with heavy weights may not be appropriate for every population. Because of the increased joint stress and risk for injury, high-load resistance training may not always be efficacious for all populations as a means of gaining muscular strength and mass. Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) has been used by rehabilitative practitioners as a means of helping individuals with muscle wasting and sarcopenia to regain muscle strength and mass. Studies have shown that utilizing BFRT with low-load resistance training with conditions of muscle wasting and sarcopenia improves muscular strength and mass gains similar to high-load resistance training. Considering the limited usage of high-load resistance training with elderly and frail populations, BFRT is a viable alternative to help them combat muscle wasting and sarcopenia by increasing muscular strength and mass.

How Exercise Effects Mental Health
Subject:  Critical Interpretation Project (Applied Exercise Science)
Presenters: Alexandra Talmadge and Richard Boni
Faculty Sponsor: Elizabeth O'Neill

Abstract: Mental illness and mental health is a broad term that covers a large number of mental disorders. Over 20 million American adults suffer from depression and over 40 million suffer from anxiety. As a result, mental health is a growing concern in the United States. This poster focuses on mild-to-moderate general anxiety and depression. Anxiety is defined as feeling fear, dread, and uneasiness. Depression negatively affects the way one feels, thinks and acts. Exercise has been shown to alleviate symptoms of mild and moderate anxiety and depression. In severe cases, exercise combined with pharmaceutical help can aid in the recovery of patients. Exercise is a stressor on the body, but reduces the effects of other stressors on the body such as depression and anxiety by inducing antioxidants, DNA repair, and protein degrading enzymes. Blood flow is increased during exercise which stimulates the release of endorphins. Many studies have shown that increasing aerobic exercise levels decrease mental disorder symptoms.

The Impact of Various Social Factors, such as Mask Wearing, on Learning Outcomes in a Criminal Justice Classroom
Subject:  Critical Interpretation Project ( Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship/Criminal Justice)
Presenters: Matlyn Gross
Faculty Sponsor: Chris Hakala & Gary Berte

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, and for the following two years, prevention and control measures were installed. These restrictions aimed to lower the infection rate of COVID-19 by limiting contact and using facial protection. However, as time has passed, there has been a significant decrease in society’s willingness to comply with such restrictions. This study investigated the impact of preventative measures, such as mask wearing, on learning outcomes in a criminal justice classroom.

Methods: This study included 52 participants who were recruited from four criminal justice classes at Springfield College during the Fall 2021 semester. Participants were required to attend one regular class period, during which they were observed for behaviors such as mask wearing and participation. At the end of the class period, participants were asked to complete a questionnaire that inquired about their comfortability in their class.

Results: Of the 52 participants, 23 reported negative feelings towards prevention measures related to COVID-19, specifically mask-wearing. With regard to the importance of mask wearing, 52% of the participants reported that wearing a mask was not at all important to them. Additionally, half of the participants (50%) reported feeling that they are, at least some of the time, less emotionally and/or socially connected to their peers and classmates because of the requirement to wear masks.

Conclusion: The requirement to participate in protective measures against COVID-19 has lead to a decrease in socio-emotional connections, which may explain the decrease in compliance with such standards.

Keywords: COVID-19, socio-emotional connections, compliance behavior

Surgical Repair of a High Ankle Sprain Utilizing the Tightrope Procedure
Subject:  Clinical Case Study (Athletic Training)
Presenters: Aidan Nau
Faculty Sponsor:  Matt Mills

Background: High ankle sprains are injuries to the distal syndesmosis joint of the tibia and fibula (Vancolen et al., 2018). This joint is vital to maintaining the structural integrity of the ankle joint and is comprised of the anterior tibiofibular ligament, posterior tibiofibular ligament, interosseous ligament, and transverse ligament (Vancolen et al., 2018). High ankle sprains typically occur from a forced dorsiflexion and inversion mechanism causing severe pain and disability (Halabchi & Hassabi, 2020).

Case Presentation: A 20-year-old male football player presented with increased tightness, stiffness, and diffuse pain throughout the left ankle resulting from a forced plantarflexion and inversion mechanism of injury. They were tender to palpate on the anterior aspect of lateral malleolus, anterior talofibular ligament, anterior tibiofibular ligament, anterior tibialis tendon, peroneal tendons, posterior tibialis tendon, and Achilles tendon. The patient had weakness and limitations with all ranges of motions and manual muscle tests. Klieger’s and talar tilt eversion special tests were positive for pain. This led to an initial diagnosis of a grade 1 lateral ankle sprain, grade 1 high ankle sprain, and a grade 1 peroneal strain. Initially the patient was treated conservatively with a focus on increasing pain free range of motion and strength. Approximately two weeks after injury, the patient received a cortisone injection to help with pain reduction. After completion of the season and failed conservative measures, radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging were ordered. The results revealed a nondisplaced incomplete fracture in posterior aspect of lateral malleolus, tear of posterior syndesmotic ligament, high-grade tear of anterior syndesmotic ligament with mild widening of the syndesmosis, and a partial tear of the anterior talofibular ligament. Approximately two months post initial injury, the patient underwent a tightrope procedure to repair the damaged syndesmosis joint and is currently in the early stages of rehabilitation with a goal of returning to sport next season.

Conclusions: Depending on the severity of the injury conservative treatment and surgical interventions are available. Grade I and occasionally Grade II sprains are treated conservatively while Grade III sprains call for surgical intervention (Vancolen et al., 2018). Due to the severity of this injury surgical intervention was chosen. Historically surgical intervention for high ankle sprains have consisted of screw fixation but as techniques have continued to improve a shift to flexible fixation surgical methods have gained popularity (Sanders et al., 2019). Rates of malreduction are significantly lower when utilizing the tightrope fixation method compared to the conventional screw fixation method (Sanders et al., 2019). The tightrope method has seen functional outcome measures as good as the screw fixation and with a lower rate of reoperation (Sanders et al., 2019). When compared to the conventional screw fixation method of reducing syndesmotic injuries the tightrope procedure has advantages. The tightrope method has the same return to play rate and results in fewer malreductions and reoperations (Sanders et al., 2019). The Ankle Disability Index was used to compared patient reported outcomes for both interventions and found similar scores and improvements over time (Sanders et al., 2019).

Clinical Bottom Line: High ankle sprains are commonly the result of a forced dorsiflexion and eversion mechanism of injury. This patient had a mechanism of forced plantarflexion and inversion showing that it is inappropriate to rule out any injury based on mechanism alone and a detailed clinical examination needs to be completed. The tightrope procedure compares favorably to the conventional screw fixation techniques that historically have been used to repair syndesmotic injuries (Sanders et al., 2019).  

References:
Halabchi, F., & Hassabi, M. (2020). Acute ankle sprain in athletes: Clinical aspects and algorithmic approach. World Journal of Orthopedics, 11(12), 534–558. PubMed. https://doi.org/10.5312/wjo.v11.i12.534
Sanders, D., Schneider, P., Taylor, M., Tieszer, C., Lawendy, A.-R., & Canadian Orthopaedic Trauma Society; (2019). Improved Reduction of the Tibiofibular Syndesmosis With TightRope Compared With Screw Fixation: Results of a Randomized Controlled Study. Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma, 33(11). https://journals.lww.com/jorthotrauma/Fulltext/2019/11000/Improved_Reduction_of_the_Tibiofibular_Syndesmosis.1.aspx
Vancolen, S. Y., Nadeem, I., Horner, N. S., Johal, H., Alolabi, B., & Khan, M. (2018). Return to Sport After Ankle Syndesmotic Injury: A Systematic Review. Sports health, 11(2), 116–122. https://doi.org/10.1177/1941738118816282

Bad Food Habits
Subject:  Critical Interpretation (College Writing)
Presenters: Anna Gruttadauria
Faculty Sponsor: Fadia Nordveit

Abstract: Something that has always been on my mind is food nutrition. Whether it be what the best thing to put into your body is, what the worst thing that can be put into your body, or what bad food habits can do to you. I like to read magazines and watch many videos on people and their thoughts about nutrition. Many people have their own beliefs on what diet is the best or what the best foods to eat are. But in reality, People should be doing what is best for them. They should fuel themselves with food that provides them nutritional value. I chose this topic to write about for my unit 2 and 3 because I felt like it was something that I could write about forever. It led me to research more about the topic and find out more information about what bad food habits can do to you. In my unit 2 paper, I talked about the concepts of food addiction, what bad food habits do to our bodies, and the emotional aspects to it. Now, I would like to reach out to others and ask their opinions about food health and how it can connect to emotion. Emotions can control huge parts of our life, and make us do certain things. People tend to deal with their emotions through working out, taking walks, or eating. Some ways of dealing with emotion can be healthy, but eating whenever you feel stressed or anxious is not a good habit to get into. 

I conducted a questionnaire / survey to ask people their thoughts and ideas about certain food beliefs and how they deal with stress and anxiety. I am hoping that people can express their anxiety and or depression and tell me what ways they cope with it and how it makes them feel. Emotion is a huge part of our lives, and it can easily take control over ourselves more than you think. 

Athlete's Mental Health
Subject: Critical Interpretation (Physical Therapy)
Presenters: Lyndsey DeLahso
Faculty Sponsor: Fadia Nordveit

Abstract:  College athletes struggle with mental health and experience burnouts, depression and anxiety. This qualitative research analyzes mental health and the impact it has on college athletes. American College of Sports Medicine explains that 30% of women and 25% of men who are student athletes experience anxiety, but only 10% seek out professional help (ACSM Statement on Mental Health). Seven athletes, both Division 1 and Division 3 athletes, were interviewed and asked questions regarding their mental health while playing at the collegiate level. Athletes shared their experiences on how they coped with poor mental health while playing and how they maintained balance between athletics and academics so they could thrive.

Brains and Brawn: The Impact of Physical Activity on Academics and Emotions

Subject:  Social Science
Presenters: Jacob Ryor
Faculty Sponsor: Juan Zhong

BACKGROUND: Physical activity is commonly discussed due to its importance in aiding the growth of developing children and adolescents. Increased physical activity has been shown to benefit the physical health and development of students there are other mental factors that physical activity can improve, such as academic performance and emotions regarding school. The current understanding of the relationships between physical activity and academic performance is that there is a significant relationship between the amount of physical activity performed and how a student performs academically, but that this correlation is usually positive but weak. There was little prior research done regarding how physical activity influences emotions about school, but the sole study I found also shows a significant but weak relationship between the two.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to identify if intensity and frequency of exercise performed outside of school are more effective than no exercise at improving academic performance and feelings regarding school.

METHODS: This study took data from the HBSC codebook, where I pulled out questions related to physical activity, academic performance, and students' feelings regarding school and performed a correlational analysis between physical activity, academic performance, and emotions regarding school.

RESULTS: The results this analysis found lined up with previous research, showing that there is a significant but weak positive relationship from physical activity to both academic performance and emotions regarding school.

CONCLUSIONS: Physical activity does improve the levels in both academic performance and emotions regarding school, but not in a large effect size. Further studies should be performed to better identify this relationship, as the questions used to quantify academic performance were vague and there was very little prior research done into emotions regarding school to use as source material.

The Association Between Carbohydrate Intake and Menstrual Cycle Regularity
Subject:  Science (Health Science)
Presenters: Raquel Spence
Faculty Sponsor: Sofija Zagarins

Background: Previous studies have found that women consume significantly more carbohydrates in both the follicular and luteal phases of a menstrual cycle. It has also been found that carbohydrate intake doesn't have an effect on PMS risk. However, the effects of carbohydrate intake on menstrual cycle regularity are unclear. 

Objective: To examine the effect of carbohydrate intake on the pattern of menstrual cycles. 

Methods: We used data from the UMass Vitamin D Study, which is a cross-sectional study of 414 healthy, premenopausal women aged 18-30 years conducted from 2006 to 2014. Carbohydrate intake was categorized according to classifications from the Mayo Clinic: low intake (< 225 grams), average intake (225-325 grams), and high intake (> 335 grams). Menstrual cycle pattern was defined as extremely regular (period starts within 1-2 days of when it is expected), very regular (within 3-4 days), regular (within 5-7 days), and irregular (usually/always greater than 7 days). Chi-square test of independence and ANOVA test were used to compare these variables. 

Results: Participants’ average age was 21 years and 85.06% were white. Extremely regular menstrual cycle had a mean (standard deviation) carbohydrate intake of 284.49g (119.30), regular menstrual cycle had a mean carbohydrate intake of 290.14g (114.38), and irregular menstrual cycle had a mean carbohydrate intake of 295.96g (169.02); there was no statistically significant difference between means (P=0.86). Similarly, when categories of carbohydrate intake were compared across menstrual pattern groups, differences across groups were not statistically significant (P=0.56).  

Conclusion: These results demonstrate that there is no association between carbohydrate intake and menstrual cycle patterns. However, there are possible limitations of this analysis such as confounding and recall bias. More research is necessary to further validate this conclusion in other populations and in prospective studies.

A Case Study of 6 Vietnamese Americans and Their Friendships
Subject:  Social Science ( Psychology)
Presenters: Kaitlin Garrity and Chandani Rana
Faculty Sponsor: Matthew Stapleton

Abstract: Perceived discrimination among Vietnamese Americans contributes to stress that may hinder life opportunities, reinforce perpetual foreigner status and erode well-being (Gee et al., 2007). In this study, 6 Vietnamese Americans, ages 18 to 21, from two universities in Western Massachusetts, wrote a story about a conversation with their friend concerning racial discrimination for 30 minutes. Participants listed up to 10 friends and described their friends in terms of their ethnicity and gender. They also indicated which of their friends were friends with one another. In the analysis, stories were divided into smaller clauses. Then a coding scheme was created to classify the clauses into themes. The coding scheme included 12 themes. Two student raters independently coded the story segments and did a content analysis. After coding, the agreement between raters was calculated, and it was found that the raters were able to code the stories with a high rate of agreement (κ = 0.73). For each of the participants, a frequency score of each of the 12 codes was calculated and displayed in bar graphs. Diagrams of the participants’ connections with each of their friends and of the connections between their friends were drawn. Results emphasize the diversity of the Vietnamese American community. Racial discrimination takes different forms and occurs in diverse settings. Some said that family encouraged them to remain silent, while others said their family encouraged them to be more active. Participants had a diverse set of friends, both in terms of ethnicity and gender.

Radial Collateral Ligament Rupture with Partial Tear of the Common Extensor Tendon in a 20-year-old Male Wrestler: A Case Study 
Subject:  Clinical Case Study (Athletic Training)
Presenters: Christa Carr, Christian Sonnergren
Faculty Sponsor: Matt Mills

Background:  The radial collateral ligament (RCL) is located on the lateral portion of the forearm, a fan-shaped ligament connecting from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus to the annular ligament of the radius and common extensor tendon (Batlle et al., 2019).  The radial collateral ligament’s primary purpose is to stabilize and resist varus stress to the elbow.  The mechanism of injury for the RCL is an excessive varus force and external rotation during weight-bearing.  As seen in two case studies a tear of the common extensor tendon is a concomitant with an acute RCL injury (Milligan et al., 2016, Mabry et al., 2021).
 Case Presentation:  A 20-year-old male wrestler reported to the clinic after hyperextending his right elbow at practice, in which his right elbow was pushed anteromedially and hyperextended while in referee’s position. The athlete heard a pop and described pain on the medial side of the elbow.  There was an absence of apparent deformities or ecchymosis.  Palpation revealed tenderness along the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), lateral epicondyle, and radial head.  Valgus and varus stress tests were positive for pain with an absence of laxity at the elbow.  Swelling was observed over the UCL and progressively diminished over two weeks.  The athlete was referred to the team physician and referred to imaging.  A complete rupture of the RCL and a partial tear of the common extensor tendon were seen on the MRI.  A referral by the team physician was made to a surgeon who specializes in the elbow. Participation ceased until the consultation was complete.  Pain and swelling were reduced with the combination of HIVIMAT, effleurages, and therapeutic exercise; the athlete was given an elbow and wrist strengthening program in preparation to return to sport.  The athlete was advised to continue rehabilitation for six weeks before receiving a follow-up consultation to discuss operative versus non-operative management.
Conclusions:  Concluding a literature review, researchers found an RCL tear is an uncommon pathology.  A classic presentation of an RCL tear was defined as chronic lateral elbow pain in middle-aged adults (Mabry et al., 2021; Milligan et al., 2016).  The subjects of the study complained of lateral elbow pain and an increase of pain with gripping (Mabry et al., 2021; Milligan et al., 2016). Injuries to the RCL occur from an acute mechanism, although uncommon as documented in the literature. The RCL is a core stabilizer of the elbow. A correlation exists between an RCL tear and a tear of the extensor tendon. The case presented in this abstract is unique compared to the cases presented in the literature because of its presentation at the initial evaluation and the rarity of the injury itself. The athlete presented after an acute mechanism of injury that was described as hyperextension. The athlete complained of medial elbow pain and swelling that persisted. Unlike other cases studied, this athlete was a young, healthy, active individual. Similar to previous studies, the extensor tendon showed a partial tear. The case presented shows that although uncommon, RCL tears can occur in young, healthy individuals. The case also reflects the need to re-evaluate each injury and get imaging when necessary. Clinical Bottom Line:  When an athlete presents with medial elbow pain and a UCL injury has been ruled out, clinicians should consider an injury to the RCL. The case presented shows the importance and value of re-evaluations as well as treating the patient and not the injury. 
References:
Acosta Batlle, J., Cerezal, L., López Parra, M. D., Alba, B., Resano, S., & Blázquez Sánchez, J.         (2019). The elbow: review of anatomy and common collateral ligament complex         pathology using MRI. Insights into imaging, 10(1), 43. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13244-        019-0725-7  
Mabry, L., Peterson, D., & Emerson, A. (2021). Avulsion of the common extensor tendon and radial collateral ligament tear. Archives of Medical Case Reports, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.33696/casereports.3.010
Milligan, M. L., Strickland, C., & Mintken, P. E. (2016). Rupture of the radial collateral ligament and common extensor origin. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 46(1), 34. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2016.0401

Talar Fracture of a 22-year old male basketball player, a case study
Subject:  Clinical Case Study (Athletic Training)
Presenters: Jake Hewitt
Faculty Sponsor: Matt Mills

Background: Acute ankle sprains are a common injury seen in the athletic population. Ankle sprains result in damage to the ankle ligaments or injuring the tibiofibular syndesmosis is primarily caused by inversion of the ankle with some degree of plantar flexion. According to (Tiemstra, 2012) the United States has an overall incidence rate of 2.15 incidences per 1,000 individuals per year, with teenagers and young adults having the highest rates of ankle sprains. Athletes in the 15-19-year-old population were found to have 7.2 incidences per 1,000 persons per year at the rate of an ankle injury. (Tiemstra, 2012) also mentioned that one-half of all ankle sprains occur during athletic activity, with basketball being the most commonly involved sport.

Case Presentation: A 22-year old male basketball player severely sprains his left ankle during a regular-season game, immediately coming out of the competition. The athlete reported to the Athletic Training Room the next day complaining that he rolled his ankle outward and now has sharp ankle pain. The athlete presented with sharp pain on the lateral aspect of the talus and complained of pain during the toe-off gait phase. The combination of chronic ankle instability in the athlete paired with the acute inversion ankle motion caused the lateral process of the talus to fracture. The athlete's injury was initially diagnosed as a lateral ankle sprain and was treated with ice, range of motion exercises, and strengthening programs. The athlete presents with a nutcracker sign (Russell, et al., 2021); the Nutcracker sign describes fractures of the posterior process, with a positive sign consisting of pain and crepitation with forced plantar flexion of the ankle. Tenderness over the achilles tendon insertion and posterior to the talus is also be experienced with these fractures. Flexor hallucis longus movement may elicit pain in the adjacent groove. The athlete was guided to get an X-Ray, but after a negative X-Ray report, the athlete was referred to get an MRI. After the MRI confirmed a lateral talus fracture, the athlete was placed in a walking boot and instructed to wear it for three weeks (Majeed, et al., 2018). reports that the standard of care rendered for a talus fracture depends solely on the classification of the fracture. Fractures are classified using a Boack or Hawkins classification. Type III Hawkins fractures or small chip fractures are the only talus fracture that promotes a conservative treatment option. A type 1a Boack fracture involves a fracture less than .5 cm and is specific to the lateral process of the talus. Both classifications suggest non-operative, cast, weight-bearing treatment as the standard of care. (Majeed, et al., 2018). The athlete experienced a significant decrease in pain and discomfort after being in the walking boot for three weeks. The athlete continued to have some weakness and slight pain but progressed exceptionally during rehabilitation. Rehabilitation consisted of a resistance band program, proprioception exercises, eccentric and concentric strength protocols paired with GameReady to reduce inflammation. The athlete fully participates while wearing a protective ankle brace during games and practices.

Conclusions: In a study by Young et al. (2016), the researchers evaluated seven patients who had confirmed cases of missed or delayed diagnosis of a talus body or neck fracture. These individuals were included in the study population to analyze their injuries further. The study inclusion criteria focused on participants with a misdiagnosis of ankle sprain and negative imaging results. The researchers confirmed that all seven study participants had a lateral process fracture of the talus caused by a misstep, twisting, or falling motion. A lateral process fracture is rare and is often missed in the initial evaluation in 50 percent of instances (Young, et al., 2016). Six out of the seven participants received conservative orthosis treatment, with three of the six reporting no further complications (Young, et al., 2016). Complications of conservative treatment according to (Majeed, et al., 2018) include a higher incidence of malunion, as well as early degenerative changes. In conservatively treated cases, up to one-third may develop avascular necrosis, while 75 percent of patients initially treated conservatively may subsequently require removal of the fragments. Additionally, non-union or malunion of the broken talar fracture can result in significant and symptomatic subtalar joint arthritis.

Clinical Bottom Line: In individuals with chronic ankle instability, a fracture to the talus lateral process can be misdiagnosed as an ankle sprain due to the location of pain, mechanism of injury, and negative x-ray results. (Russell, et al., 2021). Talar fractures should be considered when individuals with chronic ankle instability experience severe inversion motions at the ankle due to compromised talar neck stability. Talus injuries and the treatment provided vary depending on the type of talar fracture sustained, but the literature agrees with using the conservative treatment method for non-displaced lateral process talus fractures.

References:
Majeed, H., & McBride, D. J. (2018). Talar process fractures: An overview and update of the literature. EFORT open reviews, 3(3), 85–92. https://doi.org/10.1302/2058-5241.3.170040
Russell TG, Byerly DW. Talus Fracture. [Updated 2021 Aug 15]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539687/
Tiemstra, J. D. (2012, June 15). Update on acute ankle sprains. American Family Physician. Retrieved March 21, 2022, from https://www.aafp.org/afp/2012/0615/p1170.html
Young, K. W., Park, Y. U., Kim, J. S., Cho, H. K., Choo, H. S., & Park, J. H. (2016). Misdiagnosis of Talar Body or Neck Fractures as Ankle Sprains in Low Energy Traumas. Clinics in orthopedic surgery, 8(3), 303–309. https://doi.org/10.4055/cios.2016.8.3.303

The Big Five Model: Personality Traits as Predictors for Substance Use Disorder
Subject:  Critical Interpretation Project (Health Science)
Presenters: Claire Filler
Faculty Sponsor: Pam Higgins

Abstract:  With the rise in substance misuse, there have been efforts to help explain the etiology of substance use disorder. Recent explanations of the basis for substance use disorder focus on personality traits. Personality traits can be defined by thought patterns, behaviors, or feelings. These personality traits are often analyzed using the Five-Factor Model (FFM) of personality (Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness). This literature review aims to analyze the FFM of personality traits as an indicator of substance use disorder. Three academic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, and APA PsychNet) and previous literature reviews were consulted to find research studies that addressed the FFM of personality and the use of illicit substances. Articles were only included if they met the inclusion criteria that studied adult populations (20-95 years), discussed the dimensions of the five-factor model of personality, and examined drug-related substance misuse. There were limited associations with levels of Agreeableness or Extraversion. Still, many of the reviewed studies suggested that the combination of low Conscientiousness, high Openness, and high Neuroticism indicated a higher likelihood that an individual would experience some form of substance use disorder in their lifetime. For example, all eight of the research articles concluded that high Neuroticism is an indicator of substance use disorder. Substance use disorder is often associated with poor health and social outcomes when the substance of choice is misused. There is an understanding that there are psychological bases to the use of illicit substances. Establishing a connection between personality traits and the prevalence of addiction can help determine the etiology of substance use disorder. Determining the root causes of substance use disorder can help create better treatment or cessation methods. Further research is needed to look at the connection between dimensions of the FFM and their associations with substance use disorder.

Perspectives of Culinary Rhode Island Traditions
Subject: Critical Interpretation Project (Applied Exercise Science)
Presenters: Casey Lambert
Faculty Sponsor: Fadia Nordveit

Abstract: The research that was conducted in this abstract involved the results of this question, Do Springfield College students know about traditional and localized food that originated in the state of Rhode Island? This question was answered through an interactive study using mixed methods of quantitative and qualitative data collection. On April 2, 2022 an interactive focus group was held outside of Massasoit Hall from 10am-3pm allowing for any Springfield College student to participate. The research process began with a survey questionnaire about where students were from regarding their state, then answer the question of whether or not they have heard of these five iconic food staples of Rhode Island: Del’s Lemonade, Coffee Milk, Coffee Cabinet, Newport Creamery, and Stuffies. After filling out this survey questionnaire students had the option to taste test the state drink of RI, coffee milk. After this was completed another, shorter, survey questionnaire was taken about their thoughts and opinions after tasting and learning about coffee milk. The results to this are as followed, of the 50 student participants, 36% of them were from Massachusetts, 30% of student knew what Del’s Lemonade was, 32% knew what coffee milk was, 8% of students knew what a coffee cabinet was, 22% of students knew what Newport Creamery was, and 14% of students knew what a stuffie was. After trying the coffee and learning about the state drink the post taste test survey questionnaire concluded that of the 50 participants, 51% of people’s thoughts were the same, 45% of people’s thoughts changed, and 4% people’s thoughts were undecided. From this the conclusion that can be stated is that less than half of the population in this experiment did not know most RI foods, however, after tasting and learning about RI traditions and food culture almost half of those opinions and thoughts have changed.