2026

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ADHERENCE VARIANCE OF DIFFERING EXERCISE PROGRAMS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH UPPER EXTREMITY TENDONITIS
(2026-04-16) Martel, Laura; Kelly, Cavenaugh
Upper extremity tendonitis is a broad and common diagnosis that may be improved by conservative treatment methods, such as rehabilitative exercise programs to reduce pain and improve function. Upper extremity exercise programs for tendonitis have been shown to enhance quality of life through improved pain experiences, physical functioning, and functionality of the affected limb. A key aspect of exercise interventions is a home exercise program (HEP), where patients are asked to do prescribed exercises outside the clinic. HEPs are becoming an increasingly prevalent delivery methodology for exercise programs due to the increasing cost of therapy and need for transportation to outpatient therapy services. Home exercise programs can be delivered in a variety of forms. Due to a multitude of factors, such as limited medical insight, forgetfulness, and limited social support, home exercise programs may result in a lack of adherence from clients that can lead to persistent pain and limited functionality. The aim of this research study is to determine the variance of adherence rates between three identified types of home exercise programs, written only, written with images, and individualized videos. In order to determine the variances between the three identified home exercise programs, a study is proposed to compare surveyed HEP patient compliance at an outpatient occupational and physical therapy clinic. The survey to be completed by patients is the Adherence to Exercise for Musculoskeletal Pain Tool (ATEMPT). The ATEMPT survey has demonstrated validity in assessing compliance behaviors, confidence to perform each exercise, and perceived difficulty of the exercises prescribed. Following the collection of data samples from participants, statistical analysis will compare the three established home exercise programs to determine which home exercise program provided the greatest adherence rates. Data from the analysis will then potentially drive future decisions and design of HEPs at the clinic to maximize patient participation and benefit.
A BROWSER-EMBEDDED XR SIMULATION MODEL FOR EXPERIENTIAL ANIMAL BEHAVIOR TRAINING IN ONLINE STEM EDUCATION
(2026-04-16) Thiyagarajan, Tharun
This paper looks at a common issue in online education, where many courses still depend heavily on readings, slides, and recorded lectures. While these are useful for delivering content, they often do not give students enough opportunities to actively engage or learn through experience. This is especially noticeable in areas like animal behavior education, where students are expected to interpret subtle cues, understand context, and develop observational skills. In a fully online setting, access to real environments and live animals is limited, and repeated use of animals also raises safety and ethical concerns. To address this, the project presents a browser-based, XR-ready simulation designed specifically for online learning. The system allows students to explore a virtual veterinary clinic, interact with the environment, and switch between human and canine perspectives to better understand behavior. Since the simulation runs directly in a web browser, it does not require VR headsets or specialized hardware, making it easier to access across different devices. The design focuses on keeping the system lightweight and usable within typical online learning constraints. This includes managing performance in the browser, optimizing assets, and supporting interaction through standard input devices. The simulation can be used in both live sessions and self-paced learning environments. This work is presented as a design and implementation effort that explores how browser-based XR can be used to support more active learning in online STEM and STEAM education. A more structured evaluation of learning outcomes is planned as a next step.
CORRELATION BETWEEN SOCIAL MEDIA AND MENTAL HEALTH IN ADOLESCENTS
(2026-04-16) Tillotson, Faith; Bedi, Sarah
In adolescents, how does limiting social media use or not using it at all, compared with using social media often, affect symptoms of anxiety and depression over 6-12 months? A search was conducted using CINAHL and PsycINFO through the Husson University Library database. For the searches, the keywords used were social media, mental health, and adolescents. Along with this, filters were added for peer-reviewed, full-text, and published within the past 10 years. Social media among adolescents is a growing public health concern. There has been a concerning association between the increase in anxiety and depression symptoms. Evidence from the studies reviewed shows the correlation between excessive or addictive social media use and mental health challenges. These mental health challenges include mood disturbances, sleep disturbances, and self-diagnosed anxiety and depression. The research reviewed suggests that the quality and addictive patterns of social media use, rather than just the duration, are essential factors that play a role in the mental health of adolescents. Limiting social media usage or addressing addictive patterns early on may reduce these mental health risks in adolescents. The data support evidence-based nursing practice by emphasizing the importance of routine psychosocial screenings. These screenings would include social media habits, sleep patterns, and self-reported mental health symptoms. Nurses could play a key role in reducing the effects of social media on mental health. Educating families, setting realistic boundaries, and referring adolescents to resources for mental health can prevent or decrease anxiety and depression symptoms. Implementing routine screening for social media use and mental health symptoms during adolescents' yearly physicals or school nurse visits to educate and identify adolescents who may be at risk of developing mental health concerns due to their social media usage. The next step would be to conduct longitudinal research to evaluate how these interventions can impact symptoms of anxiety and depression in adolescents over a period of time to provide more substantial evidence for clinical guidelines and education development.
EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GENETIC VULNERABILITY AND ADDICITION IN DRUG-INDUCED PSYCHOSIS
(2026-04-16) Martinez, Sophia; Bedi, Sarah
The primary question of this study is whether a family history of psychosis and an increased risk for an individual who struggles with addiction to experience drug-induced psychosis? The study aims to identify what drug-induced psychosis is and how it differs from other variations of psychosis, while exploring underlying factors. The overall research is a literature review of three separate sources with a patient sampling ranging from 48-148 individuals. The first study discovered there are risk factors, such as drug use, that can increase and individual’s likelihood of developing this disease. While the second study focuses on a family history of psychosis and substance abuse, both separated and combined in individuals, to identify id one influences the other. The final study was a comparison of individuals who had primary psychosis with comorbid drug abuse and drug-induced psychosis: Diagnostic and clinical evolution at follow-up. The study revealed that overall, both groups showed similar diagnosis stability over time. There was no evidence that symptoms in drug-induced psychosis groups improved more after stopping substance abuse. Collectively, the evidence suggests that a family history of psychosis and a history of substance abuse are independent factors. Indicating a family history does not directly influence the likelihood of developing drug-induced psychosis if the individual is struggling with addiction. While these factors may not directly influence each other, both of them can increase the risk of the individual experiencing drug-induced psychosis.
SUPPORTING OCCUPATIONAL ENGAGEMENT IN FORENSIC SETTINGS: AN EVIDENCE-BASED REVIEW
(2026-04-16) Stengel, Victoria; Brogno, Kailey; Davis, Kimberly
Background: Forensic occupational therapy is a small yet expanding practice area focused on helping individuals in the criminal justice system build skills, regain independence, and successfully re-engage in meaningful daily life. Occupations treated most consistently include education, employment, and housing. Financial management, family/parenting, and social skills were addressed however, less often. Basic needs (food and clothing), transportation, physical health (including sexual health/HIV risk), obtaining identification (driver’s license/social security card), and religion or spirituality are rarely explored (Moore et al., 2020). The purpose of this review is to determine if occupation based interventions will reduce recidivism and the potential impact of having occupational therapy services available for individuals who are currently incarcerated. Determine the outcome when services are provided and if that impacts the ability to remain in the community after release. Using the scoping review methodology framework from Arksey & O’Malley, 2005, we completed the six stages to answer the research question. The stages include identifying the research question; identifying relevant studies; study selection; charting the data; collating, summarizing, and reporting results. Reporting will be guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR).
EVIDENCE-BASED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SOLUTIONS FOR SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT IN PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY
(2026-04-16) Anthony, Mary; Donovan, Stephanie; Roberts, Hayley; Howland, Katey
This project explored the literature surrounding interventions in occupational therapy that combat common symptoms experienced in pediatric oncology clients. A review of the literature is the first step in understanding evidence-based practice for occupational therapists working with pediatric oncology clients. The incidence of pediatric oncology has grown to approximately 15,000 children diagnosed with cancer annually in the U.S. (Ricci et al, 2024). The highest incidence rates are found in leukemias, brain tumors, and lymphomas (Siegal et al, 2018). Prevalence is notably higher among non-Hispanic White children, and residents of the Northeast (Price et al, 2025). Survival outcomes have improved significantly since the mid-1970s, with recent data showing five-year survival rates between 83.2% and 87.8% across pediatric age groups (Price et al, 2025). Improved survival rates lead to concurrent and post-cancer symptoms which often go underrecognized, impacting quality of life prompting the need for evidence-based interventions (Price et al, 2025). To further understand the evidence in occupational therapy surrounding treatment of symptoms, the authors analyzed the literature using a level of evidence framework. Levels of evidence are assigned to studies based on the research design, quality of the study, and applicability for clinical practice (Hissong et.al, 2015). A review of the literature narrowed symptoms commonly treated in occupational therapy to; fatigue, emotional regulation and responses, cognition, neurosensory, neuromotor and pain. Using reliable databases to further examine evidence-based interventions, the researchers examined and summarized best practices. After the literature was analyzed, the authors created an easy to read guide in understanding the evidence surrounding the effectiveness of occupational therapy treatment for each symptom. The findings emphasize an importance for integrating evidence-based occupational therapy interventions within a variety of treatment contexts for pediatric oncology clients.
PEDIATRIC OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS’ PERSPECTIVES ON BARRIERS AND FACILLITATORS TO HOME PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
(2026-04-16) Poulin, Mara; Boucher, Lydia; O'Roak, Maureen; Fysh, Lauren
This study explores pediatric occupational therapists’ perceptions of barriers and facilitators that influence a family's participation in home programming for their child. Home programs are a central component of pediatric occupational therapy practice and support skill development and the generalization of therapeutic gains across different environments. Research suggests that embedding interventions within a family's natural routine can actively promote meaningful participation in children. This can be through the occupations such as play, feeding, and everyday activities. Factors such as caregiver stress, socioeconomic constraints, geographic location, and characteristics of the home environment may negatively affect the family's engagement and overall adherence to the program's structure during their interactions with the program. Creating routines can help with providing structure, predictability, and security for both the children and their caregivers. This makes routines more effective in the context of the intervention. Despite the given evidence, there are still barriers to successful home program implementation. A qualitative survey design was used to gather perspectives from licensed pediatric occupational therapists who work in outpatient clinical settings. Open-ended survey questions were distributed electronically to outpatient pediatric clinics in Maine to collect descriptive information on therapists’ experiences, the perceived barriers families face, and strategies used to support engagement in home programming. Participation was voluntary and anonymous to encourage honest and detailed responses. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns across the responses. Findings from this study aim to inform more contextually responsive home programming approaches and identify strategies that may improve family implementation. Having a stronger understanding of therapists’ perspectives on the barriers and facilitators of programming can help identify and enhance the implementation, engagement, and long-term sustainability of pediatric occupational therapy interventions delivered in the home context.
PARENT-PERCEIVED BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS TO ACCESSING PUBLIC LIBRARIES FOR CHILDREN WITH SENSORY PROCESSING DIFFERENCES
(2026-04-16) Salter, Haylee; Morrison, Amelia; McCoy, Hailee; Fysh, Lauren
Sensory processing differences in children often create challenges with accessing environments and participating in community settings due to how they process and respond to sensory input. One public setting that may present challenges for these children is the public library. Public libraries are important community spaces that help support reading, learning, and social connection. However, environmental stimuli such as noise, bright lighting, visually busy spaces, and unpredictable social interactions can make it difficult for some children and their families to comfortably use these spaces. Despite growing awareness of sensory-friendly practices in community settings, there is limited research exploring parent perspectives on access to public libraries. The purpose of this qualitative study is to examine parent-perceived barriers to accessing public libraries for children with sensory processing differences and to identify environmental factors and supports to facilitate inclusive participation. Participants must be a parent or caregiver of a child who is experiencing difficulty accessing public spaces, such as a library, due to sensory processing difficulties. Participants were recruited through a voluntary online survey comprising nine open-ended parent-focused questions, distributed via social media and community groups. Survey responses will be analyzed using descriptive thematic analysis to identify common themes related to environmental barriers and facilitators. This study presents no more than minimal risk to participants. The findings of this research can inform future public library practices and community programming to prompt more inclusive access and participation for children with sensory processing challenges. Gathering parent perspectives on environmental barriers and facilitators may inform future changes to improve access to public libraries.
AN EXPLORATION OF POTENTIAL DISPARITIES IN PHYSICAL THERAPISTS’ DECISIONS BASED ON RACE AND ETHNICITY OF PATIENTS
(2026-04-16) Lovely, Ambrose; Osuna, Haesel; Wells, Cassandra; Siegel, Sondra
Background/Purpose: Research shows that health care providers exhibit evidence of implicit bias when treating non-white patients. Most existing evidence is concerned with medicine and nursing, while very few studies have been conducted on physical therapists (PTs). Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore the presence of racial or ethnic bias in PT decisions. Methods: A vignette-based survey was created and distributed via email to licensed PTs within the Husson University Clinical Instructor database. The vignette described a patient with shoulder pathology who was receiving care in an out-patient PT setting. Three versions of this vignette were used which were identical except for the patient’s name and an AI-generated image. The variations were intended to represent three distinct racial or ethnic identities, though these were not explicitly stated. One patient appeared to be white, while the other two appeared to be non-white minorities. Participants responded to questions regarding prognosis, plan of care, treatments, expected outcomes, and recommended referrals. Data were analyzed using Fisher’s Exact Test for frequency comparisons. Results: Thirty-eight out of 331 recipients completed the survey, yielding three groups of respondents based on the case each person received. Participants were primarily from the Northeastern region of the USA, with 92% identifying as white. The analysis revealed no statistically significant differences among the groups in all measures assessed. However, two interesting trends were noted. Minority patients were most associated with expectations of longer duration of care and were the least often referred to an orthopedic specialist after limited progress. Conclusion: In this survey, PTs displayed no disparities based on patient race or ethnicity when recommending treatment for shoulder pathology in an out-patient setting. This differs from a large body of literature showing disparities in other health care disciplines, but is mostly consistent with one other similar survey of PTs.
ARE YOU TIRED? TREATING FATIGUE WITH PAIN NEUORSCIENCE
(2026-04-16) Bromley, Kiara; Cote, Lindsay; Hohfelder, Ellie; Myles, Cameron; Williams, Lexi; Steinbarger, Kimberly
Background: Fatigue is a prevalent and debilitating symptom among individuals with chronic disease and is often resistant to conventional management strategies. Emerging evidence suggests that fatigue may share neurophysiological mechanisms with central sensitization and chronic pain. Pain neuroscience education (PNE), which targets central mechanisms through cognitive reframing and symptom reconceptualization, may represent a promising non-pharmacological intervention for centralized fatigue. Purpose: To determine whether an educational intervention grounded in pain neuroscience education and the concept of centralized fatigue can improve symptoms of fatigue and central sensitization in individuals with chronic disease. Methods: This prospective, single-group pre-post study was conducted over eight weeks. Participants completed baseline measures including the Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFS) and the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI). Following baseline assessment, participants attended a one-hour virtual educational session addressing the neurophysiology of fatigue, central sensitization, and practical management strategies. Follow-up assessments were conducted at four weeks (qualitative check-in) and eight weeks (CFS and CSI re-administration). Repeated measures t-tests were used to compare baseline and eight-week scores. Results: Eight female participants completed the study. At eight weeks, there was a statistically significant reduction in CFS scores (p = 0.007) and CSI scores (p = 0.016). At four weeks, 44% of participants reported decreased fatigue, 33% reported no change, and 22% reported increased fatigue. Post hoc power analysis indicated low statistical power (0.09). Conclusion: Education based on pain neuroscience principles may reduce symptoms of fatigue and central sensitization in individuals with chronic disease. While findings are limited by small sample size and low power, results support further investigation of educational interventions as accessible, non-pharmacological strategies for managing centralized fatigue.
CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELORS’ EXPERIENCES WITH MANDATED REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT IN PENNSYLVANIA
(2026-04-16) Vermileon, Todd
Many phenomenological factors influence counselors when navigating mandated reporting and deciphering reasonable suspicion, such as beliefs, emotions, culture, decision-making, training opportunities, and past experiences (Levi & Crowell, 2011). The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of clinical mental health counselors with mandated reporting of child abuse and neglect in Pennsylvania. A hermeneutic phenomenological approach was used to analyze the lived experiences of eight clinical mental health counselors. The hermeneutic circle guided data analysis in a parts-to-whole process, which enabled interpretations to transform into phenomenologically crafted texts (Gadamer, 1988, 2004; Heidegger, 1962). Findings revealed global themes among participants relating to the reporting process, decision-making factors, and preparation for the role of mandated reporter. The identification of global themes addressed the study’s research questions and gaps in the counseling field. Implications from the study will be used to inform counselors’ reporting practices, counselor educators’ curricula when training masters-level counseling students, and awareness to facilitate systemic change.
BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION TRAINING FOR CHRONIC QUADRICEPS ATROPHY AND WEAKNESS
(2026-04-16) Dick, Braden; Gravit, Tara; Hunter, Hayden; Proulx, Tyler; Scott, Wayne
Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) is an exercise modality that utilizes blood flow occlusion in the affected extremity during low-load training. Partially occluding blood flow leads to a hypoxemic state in the affected limb, resulting in build-up of anabolic metabolites, cellular swelling, and increased recruitment of fast-twitch muscle fibers. BFRT stresses muscles differently from typical high-load training. The purpose of this study was to determine if BFRT can reverse long-standing quadriceps atrophy and weakness in an individual following an ACL reconstruction and meniscus repair. A single subject with residual quadriceps atrophy, weakness, and functional impairment trained with BFRT for 8-weeks. The subject participated in two training sessions per week targeting the affected extremity, consisting of three quadriceps exercises at 80% occlusion following a 30, 15, 15, 15 repetition protocol. Outcome measures included thigh circumference and lower extremity strength, which were tested prior to, every 2 weeks during the intervention, and one-week post-training. Functional outcomes were assessed with video analysis of movement and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scale (KOOS) at the start and end of the study. After the 8-week training period, a 1-week F/U was conducted to reassess the subjects' knee extensor strength (MVIC), thigh circumference, and KOOS. Thigh circumference decreased across measurement sites (involved limb: 45 to 43 cm at 5 cm superior to the top of patella and 53.5 to 50.5 cm 15 cm superior to the top of patella). Strength asymmetry declined from 69.8% to 49.8% of the uninvolved limb. KOOS improved from 81.55 to 88.10 with subscale increases in symptoms (57.14 to 67.86), sport/rec (70.00 to 90.00), and QoL (50 to 62.5). This study suggests that despite decreases in quadriceps strength and size, BFRT may improve functional outcomes.
ENHANCING STUDENT PT/PTA TEAMWORK THROUGH SIMULATION: A CASE STUDY
(2026-04-16) Fishburn, Makayla; McCarty, Olivia; Nicknair, Armanda; Poirier, Bryanna; Porter, Makaelyn; Zeigler, Madison; Bochynski, Jennifer
Purpose: This simulation experience case study is to explore how collaborative learning between physical therapist (PT) and physical therapist assistant (PTA) students enhances clinical preparedness and confidence while understanding individual roles. By engaging in a realistic patient scenario, students learned to develop interprofessional communication skills and a clearer understanding of roles. The simulation aims to better prepare students for real-world clinical settings where effective collaboration is essential for patient care and student confidence. Case Description: PT and PTA students were divided into mixed groups consisting of 1st-year DPT students, 1st- and 2nd- year PTA students, and a 3rd-year DPT student acting as a clinical instructor. Groups received a pre-brief reviewing PT/PTA roles and responsibilities, including case-based application of the APTA’s PTA supervision and direction algorithm. During the one-hour simulation, students developed and implemented a treatment plan for a standardized patient. The standardized patient presented with clinical red flags, prompting PTA students to determine appropriate next steps. A structured debrief followed, focusing on communication, roles, and clinical decision-making. Voluntary pre- and post-simulation surveys were completed. Outcomes: Fifty-four students completed both pre and post surveys (65.5% 1st year DPT students, 16.4% 1st year PTA students, and 18.2% as 2nd year PTA students. Mann-Whitney U tests analysis showed statistically significant improvements in four of the five domains: role understanding (p=.029), communication confidence (p=.024), preparedness for teamwork (p=.034), and recognizing scope boundaries (p=.017). PTA students demonstrated higher scores than DPT students pre- and post-simulation (p<.01). Prior clinical experience in various settings was associated with higher confidence levels. Discussion: While most simulation research emphasizes interprofessional education, limited literature addresses intraprofessional PT/PTA training. Findings suggest simulation enhances student confidence, role clarity, and communication. Simulation appears to be a valuable strategy for fostering confidence and role identification in the clinical setting.
DPT STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF CLINICAL READINESS AND CONFIDENCE IN THEIR KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ATTITUDES (KSAS) BEFORE THEIR FIRST FULL-TIME CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
(2026-04-16) Holmes, Jadyn; Piper, Emily; Richardson, Cierra; Saucier, Caileigh; Warren, Akira; LaPrino, Stephanie
Introduction Clinical experiences are essential in physical therapy education to bridge the gap between didactic learning and clinical practice. Early, contextualized opportunities, such as a student-run Pro Bono clinic, enhance skill development, confidence, and preparedness. Prior research suggests early clinical exposure improves self-perceived readiness for practice (Kalistratova et al., 2024). Additionally, competency frameworks have identified essential knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors required before initial clinical experiences. This study used a survey-based approach to evaluate Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students’ perceived readiness and confidence prior to clinical placement. Methods A clinical readiness checklist adapted from Timmerberg et al. (2019) was organized into 13 domains encompassing knowledge, skills, attitudes, and professional behaviors. Participants rated perceived competence using a four-point Likert scale (Unfamiliar to Proficient). Eligible students completed an anonymous electronic survey via Google Forms after providing informed consent. No identifying information was collected. Results Students reported lower perceived competence in common diagnoses (36%), pathology (50%), infection control (31.8%), and self-introduction (40.9%), despite expected performance of “at least emerging.” In areas such as self-care, measuring muscle length, sensory assessment, legal considerations, and patient–provider relationships, 70–80% met expectations, while approx. 22% did not. For professional skills, 80–90% met expectations, with deficits noted in manual muscle testing and HIPAA (18.18%) and Code of Ethics (14.6%). In contrast, 90–100% met expectations in communication, interventions, patient handling, and documentation, with only 4.5% below expectations in aerobic exercise-related tasks. Conclusion DPT students reported higher confidence in communication and professional behaviors compared to clinical skills and reasoning. These findings suggest a gap between knowledge acquisition and clinical application, highlighting the need for earlier, structured clinical experiences to enhance readiness and self-efficacy.
KNEEHAB MULTIPLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION AND MUSCLE FATIGUE
(2026-04-16) Bryant, Alexander; Meeker, Victoria; Russell, Lindsey; Scott, Wayne
Excessive muscle fatigue (MF) is a limiting factor when using neuromuscular electrical stimulation to strengthen muscles. Stimulation strategies minimizing MF may result in increased strength gains. The purpose of the study was to compare MF produced in the quadriceps muscle via a multipolar Kneehab electrical stimulation garment (MKESG) versus a monopolar stimulator. We hypothesized that MKESG would produce less MF than the monopolar stimulator. Fifteen participants were tested using a Biodex dynamometer to measure isometric knee extensor torque. Maximum volitional isometric contraction (MVIC) muscle torque of the right leg was measured. MKESG intensity was increased to the maximum tolerated intensity for a 10-second contraction. After 5-minutes rest, a 15-contraction fatigue protocol was conducted using a 10-second on/off ratio. Peak torque of each contraction was recorded. The protocol was then repeated using the left leg and a monopolar Grass Stimulator (MGS). Intensity was set to elicit a similar initial percentage of the MVIC torque as tolerated on the right. Fatigue indexes were calculated for both conditions by dividing final contraction peak torque by initial. Average peak torque was also recorded. Paired t-tests were used for statistical analysis. We did not observe significant differences. The mean fatigue index for the MKESG was 0.44 ± 0.13 as compared to 0.43 ± 0.14 for the MGS (p = 0.34). Average peak torque for the MKESG was 31.17 ± 17.77 Nm versus 27.65 ± 16.05 Nm for the MGS (p = 0.07). Our results suggest that the MKESG stimulator does not reduce electrically elicited MF as compared to the MGS, clinicians wishing to do so should explore alternative strategies.
“LIKE LITTLE NICKS TO THE SOUL”: FIRST RESPONDERS EXPERIENCES WITH MORAL SUFFERING AND RESILIENCE
(2026-04-16) Dooley, Amanda
First responders are an interdisciplinary group of professionals who are the first to answer calls for help in emergency situations. A widespread problem first responders are facing across disciplines is an increased risk of a myriad of mental health issues and inadequate access to appropriate resources and supports to address such concerns. A potentially significant contributing factor that has been largely unexamined in the scientific literature and remains widely unknown among first responders themselves is moral suffering. Moral suffering refers to a continuum of physical, psychological, and spiritual symptoms that can occur after exposure to a moral stressor. A moral stressor is any event that creates an inner conflict with ones’ moral values. First responders frequently encounter moral stressors on duty due to the nature of their work. The purpose of this qualitative study was to 1) gain a deeper understanding of first responders’ lived experiences with moral suffering and resilience and how they cope with moral stressors encountered in the line of duty and 2) use this knowledge to contribute to addressing the problem through raising awareness with relevant community stakeholders, including first responders themselves, policy makers, and mental health professionals. A small, purposive sample of participants shared their experiences through semi-structured interviews. A detailed analysis using the methodological approach of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) yielded four themes and seven sub-themes that describe participants’ experiences with moral stressors through the types of moral stressors they encountered, how they were affected by their experiences, and how they coped with their experiences. Awareness was raised through the creation of a training presentation on moral suffering and resilience in first responders. The results of this study add to the small, but growing body of research that suggests moral suffering is a significant occupational hazard for first responders.
MORALITY, PIRITUALITY, AND RESIDUAL RELIGION
(2026-04-16) Guthrie, Clifton; Van Tongeren, Daryl
The Residual Religion Hypothesis (RRH; Van Tongeren et al., 2021) proposes that religious influence persists following disaffiliation, gradually fading over time across moral, cultural, and spiritual dimensions. This study tested the RRH among three groups: currently religious individuals, religious "Dones" (formerly religious), and "Nones" (never religious), using measures less commonly applied in this literature. A sample of 1,304 U.S. adults (from an initial 1,500) was recruited via Prolific in March 2025. Participants completed the Morality as Cooperation Questionnaire (MAC-Q), two Gallup-derived items assessing perceptions of moral decline, and the SHALOM 2G spiritual well-being scale. Dones additionally reported time since disaffiliation and whether their prior religious commitment was intrinsic or extrinsic. Contrary to predictions, the MAC-Q revealed no significant group differences in cooperative moral values, including group-preserving domains (Family, Heroism, Deference) hypothesized to be highest among the Religious and to show residual decay among Dones. Religious participants were modestly less pessimistic about the state of U.S. moral values, though this finding warrants caution given the sample was collected in early 2025, a period of significant partisan mood fluctuation following a presidential election. On spiritual well-being, Religious participants reported less dissonance between their ideals and lived experience, but Dones did not differ significantly from Nones, again failing to support RRH. An exploratory finding proved notable: only 20% of Done respondents described themselves retrospectively as having been deeply committed to religious beliefs and practices. This suggests the Done category may be too heterogeneous for clean hypothesis testing and points toward the need for finer-grained classification of religious disaffiliation in future research. A follow-up study (not represented on this poster) was conducted to test this hunch.
WETLAND VS. UPLAND HABITAT VEGETATION INFLUENCES ON SMALL MAMMAL ABUNDANCE
(2026-04-16) Maher, Mackenzie; Cornell, Josie; Gibney, Chris; McKnight, Aly
Small-mammal communities are strongly influenced by vegetation complexity and structure. This study compared small-mammal abundance between wetland and upland habitats on the Husson University campus in Bangor, Maine, to understand how vegetation structure shapes community dynamics. We conducted live trapping across four 30 m × 30 m grids (two wetland and two upland) over seven consecutive nights for the fall season, totaling 448 trap nights. We baited Sherman traps, checked them within 12 hours of setting, and identified, weighed, and, when possible, tagged captured individuals for recapture data. We developed an encounter history for each individual and used encounter histories to (1) evaluate whether capture-mark- recapture modeling assumptions were met, and (2) estimate capture rates, recapture rates, and population sizes for each focal species. Species observed included voles, mice, shrews, and squirrels. Based on previous research, we hypothesized that wetland habitats would support higher small mammal abundance due to increased vegetation complexity and resource availability. Results from this study contribute to understanding how specific habitat differences influence small mammal populations and provide insight into the role of vegetation structure in shaping community dynamics.
HERBACEOUS PLANT COMPOSITION IN THE HUSSON UNIVERSITY FOREST PRIOR TO INVASION BY EMERALD ASH BORER
(2026-04-16) Talbott, Rowan; Menzmer, Austin; McKnight, Aly; Crowley, Katherine
The Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis, EAB) is an invasive species quickly killing ash trees across the eastern United States. With the EAB soon to arrive on our campus forest, we proposed a study to establish baseline pre-invasion data on woody, herbaceous, avian, and small mammal populations. Husson’s ash forest contains both upland deciduous forest and wetlands. We established six sites in the forest, each with multiple ash trees present: three in the upland and three in the wetland. Following the collection of pre-invasion herbaceous data in July 2025, we analyzed the diversity, composition, and canopy openness between site types. We found a significant difference in composition between the upland and wetland sites, but no difference in diversity or canopy openness. The lack of difference in diversity between upland and wetland plots may be due to an overall low number of species throughout the forest, while the lack of difference in canopy openness suggests that the cause of the compositional difference between the upland and wetland is not related to varying levels of light reaching the forest floor. Indicator species analysis revealed five species that represented the upland (p=0.01, 0.03, 0.03, 0.04, 0.04) and two species that represented the wetland (p=0.01, 0.001). We recommend monitoring the water table and measuring nutrient availability as a possible means to explain the compositional difference between the wetland and upland environments. Collecting data earlier in the season may reveal the presence of transient wetland species. Research post-invasion should focus on the species identified as indicators of their respective environments.
ENHANCING OR ALTERING FOOD FLACORS OR TEXTURES TO ENCOURAGE HEALTHIER EATING
(2026-04-16) Davis, Colby; Hacker, Jessica
This paper is a literature review of recent developments in olfactory reception and general sensory influences on food perception. Different brain processes coordinate to formulate taste perception, including the orbitofrontal cortex, insula, nucleus of the solitary tract, cranial nerves V, VII, IX, and X, and taste buds (Shaikh et al., 2023, p. 2). One can train these sensory receptors to be more open to healthy foods. Various methods have been identified, such as positive imaging while eating (Kaya et al., 2025), listening to pleasant music (Guedes et al., 2025), and utilizing proper mindful fasting techniques to alter appetite (Coletta et al., 2009). Combining mindful eating, pleasant presentation, environmental manipulation, and less restrictive eating can help one overcome misconceptions about healthy foods and improve one’s diet. Keywords: taste perception, healthy eating, obesity, emotional food connection, visual masking

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