2024 SRSU Student Symposium – In-Person Presentation Schedule
Friday, April 12th, 2024
Click on a Session Time (left row of the schedule below) to jump down the page and view the Presentation Abstracts for that Session Time.
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SRSU In-Person Symposium Spotlight Event: Welcome and Keynote Introduction – Dr. Bernie Canteñs |
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| Session Time |
UC Espino |
UC Espino Room B |
UC Espino Room C/D |
UC Espino Room 210 |
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| 1:00-1:50 |
Room A Extended Time: 1:00pm-1:50pm |
Room B Moderators: |
Room C/D Moderators: |
Room 210 Moderators: |
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| 2:00-2:50 |
Room A Extended Time: 2:00pm-2:50pm |
Room B Moderator: Dr. Chris Ritzi Natural Sciences . 2:00-2:15 pm Presenter: Sarah Jane Gilbert Title: “Development and Benefits of a STEM Curatorial Internship” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Chris Ritzi 2:00-2:15 pm . 2:20-2:35 pm Presenter: Bruno Batista de Medeiros Title: “Analyzing the Population Structure of the Brazilian Campolina Horse” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Jaime Boyd 2:20-2:35 pm . 2:40-2:55 pm Presenter: Ariane Bardassi Title: “Establishing Grain-Based Modified Protocols For Refeeding Malnourished Horses” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Jaime Boyd 2:40-2:55 pm |
Room C/D Moderator: |
Room 210 Moderator: |
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| 3:00-3:50 3:00 – 3:50 POSTER PRESENTATION BLOC in UC FOYER |
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Poster Presenter: Syndilyn Maguglin Title: “Occurrence of Cryptic and Low-Density Owl Species in the Davis Mountains” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Maureen Frank . Poster Presenter: Audrey Taulli Title: “Avian Community Response to Removal of Encroaching Woody Vegetation in Trans-Pecos Grasslands” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Maureen Frank . Poster Presenter: Emily Blumentritt Title: “Livestock Tanks for Migratory and Wintering Grassland Birds in The Trans-Pecos” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Maureen Frank . Poster Presenter: Nathan Thompson Title:“Curation and Display of Rock and Mineral Sample” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Kesse Kelsch . Poster Presenters: Garner Hancock Hunter Montes Title:“Housing Market Analysis for Alpine, TX” Faculty Nominator: Keith Nixon |
Poster Presenter: Sarah Jane Gilbert Title: “Abundance And Diversity Of Anurans Between Two Anthropogenic Wetland Habitats On Sul Ross Property” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Thor Larson . Poster Presenter: Alfredo Nunez Title:“Hydration Status of NCAA Division III Female Basketball Athletes” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Hugh Morrissey . Poster Presenter: Jimena Proana Title: “Nutrition And The Menstrual Cycle And How Women Are Using Specific Nutrient Planning To Better Navigate Their Menstrual Cycle” Faculty Nominator: Mary Powers . Poster Presenter: Yolanda Rey Carlos Title: “Using Photovoice to Investigate Sources of Failure Among High-Achieving Mexican-American Female Undergraduate Students” Faculty Nominator: Kathleen Rivers . Poster Presenter: Ryan Smith Title: “Preparing and Cataloguing Vertebrate Fossil Bones” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Thomas Shiller . |
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Poster Presenter: |
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| 4:00-4:50 |
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Room B Moderator: |
Room C/D Moderator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez Borderlands Research Institute . 4:00-4:15 pm Presenter: Hailey Barton Title: “Seasonality of Competition Potential Between Desert Bighorn and Mule Deer on Elephant Mountain Wildlife Management Area ” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez 4:00-4:15 pm . 4:20-4:35 pm Presenter: Chris Mott Title: “Arid Ecosystem Health Through Livestock Grazing Systems: The Effects on Dung Beetles” Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez 4:20-4:35 pm . 4:40-4:55 pm Presenter: Caleb Hughes Title: “Winter Habitat Selection and Movement Behavior of Scaled Quail in the Trans-Pecos, Texas“ Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez 4:40-4:55 pm . |
Room 210 Moderator: |
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| 5:00-5:50 |
Room A Extended Time: 5:00pm-5:50pm |
Room B Moderator: |
Room C/D Moderator: |
No Scheduled 5pm Sessions
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Noon – 12:50pm Symposium Spotlight Event – Welcome and Symposium Keynote Address
Noon-12:40pm / SRSU In-Person Symposium Spotlight Event
Welcome & Keynote Introduction – Dr. Bernie Canteñs
SRSU Executive Vice President & Provost
Keynote Speaker – Dr. Ryan Luna
Dr. Ryan S. Luna is the SRSU Department Chair of Natural Sciences with the Borderlands Research Institute.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW KEYNOTE ADDRESS VIDEO
Keynote Bio:
Dr. Ryan S. Luna is the Department Chair of Natural Sciences and the Kelly R. Thompson Professor in Quail Research with Borderlands Research Institute. He teaches curriculum associated with the Natural Resource Management program, and is a faculty advisor to the Range and Wildlife Club and the Sul Ross Angler’s Club. Dr. Luna’s primary research pertains to upland game bird ecology and management, primarily focusing on the Gambel’s quail, Montezuma quail and the Scaled quail. Prior to joining SRSU, Dr. Luna obtained a Ph.D. from Texas State University, an M.S. from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a B.S. degree from Texas Tech University.
1:00 – 1:50pm Session Bloc Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
1:00-1:50pm / UC Espino Room A – Moderator: Dr. Theron Francis
Extended Time: 1:00pm-1:50pm
Team Presenters: Johanna Covington, Jonathan Galvan,
Jakolby King, Sarah LeBlanc, Josiah Medlin, Gavin Mitchell, Justin Moon, Christopher Mott, Abby Morris, Samuel Perkins, David Wellborn, & Hessten Zack
Languages and Literature
Moderator: Dr. Theron Francis
Literature
Title: “Writing in the Chihuahuan Desert”
Abstract: SR student writers will read their creative writing composed while hiking at the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute near Fort Davis and the Mimms Ranch of the Dixon Water Foundation in Marfa. Their creative writing will be contextualized in the work of environmental writers in American literature from Bartram, to Catlin, Thoreau, Emerson, Muir, and Rachel Carson among others.
1:00-1:15pm / UC Espino Room B – Room Moderators: Dr. Jeanne Qvarnstrom & Dr. Alicia Trotman
Presenter: Gabriel Cervantes
Title: “The Lone Wolf Mentality? Examining the Effects Between Loneliness, Social Connectedness, and Cognitive Reappraisal Among College Students”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Alicia Trotman
Education
ABSTRACT: This study focused on the predictors of loneliness with undergraduate students and how these predictors might affect any mechanisms with building relationships with others. Social isolation is an expensive consequence in which loneliness results. Leigh-Hunt et al. (2017) showed correlations between loneliness and social isolation with reduced social interaction and how diverse social networks of friends and family were associated with a reduction in reported depression. Özdemir & Tuncay (2008) indicated that there was a significant relationship between the needs of social interaction and loneliness among university students. When high levels of self-monitoring were discovered, significant correlations with loneliness and emotional suppression were discovered. Consequently, my first hypothesis was a positive correlation could be found between loneliness and social connectedness levels, and my second hypothesis was that high levels of emotional regulation and self-monitoring will have a negative correlation with social connectedness levels. The first hypothesis was rejected. The second hypothesis was partly accepted, finding a negative correlation between social connectedness and cognitive reappraisal (r(14) = -.676, p = .004). This meant the more participants connected with others, the less they self-monitored in terms of reflecting on a situation. There was no interaction with emotion suppression. Apparently, low self-monitors do not self-reflect or reappraise cognitively their relationships which still leads to high levels of loneliness. Furthermore, social connectedness does not appear to have a strong influence possibly leading to a lone wolf mentality that some students employ to “get through college” because competition and individualism are rewarded (Brown et al., 2023).
1:20-1:35pm / UC Espino Room B – Room Moderators: Dr. Jeanne Qvarnstrom & Dr. Alicia Trotman
Presenter: Sharon Barrett
Title:“900,000 Boots on the Ground: Using Midwives to Implement the Sustainable Development Goals”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Jessica Velasco
Social Sciences
ABSTRACT: To address global maternal mortality gaps identified in the State of the World’s Midwifery 2021 report, the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA) and International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) have called on countries to invest in midwives. The UNFPA states that midwives are needed to deliver SRMNCAH, including abortion and contraception, in order to realize SRHR and advance the gender equality mandate (GEM) of the Sustainable Development Goals. A review of the international family planning agenda, guided by the technocratic model used by scholars of international childbirth, reveals a utilitarian view of midwives as a means of achieving world population goals. An original dataset, constructed from secondary data, guided the creation of two indexes: the SDG Commitment Index and the Midwifery Status Index, which were used to analyze the relationship between SDG commitment and midwifery status.
1:40-1:55pm / UC Espino Room B – Room Moderators: Dr. Jeanne Qvarnstrom & Dr. Alicia Trotman
Presenter: Saul Jadon Baruch Barrientes
Title: “The Case of Aaron Hernandez ”
Faculty Nominator: Benjamin Barrientes
Criminal Justice
ABSTRACT: Four criminal cases were brought against Aaron Hernandez, former NFL football Tight End for the New England Patriots. Hernandez played football in the NFL for 3 years. He was very talented athletically, although, it has since been discovered that many mental problems occurred on his quest for NFL eligibility. He was a marijuana smoker in high school; delinquent and a murder suspect in college. Later, a jury found him guilty of murder and he was convicted. Although reasonable doubt for the murder would be argued against a sentence of life imprisonment, he was killed in the Suffolk County Jail Corrections Facility in Boston, Massachusetts.
1:00-1:15pm / UC Espino Room C/D – Room Moderators: Dr. Sally Roche & Dr. Joseph Velasco
Presenter: Kelsey Pavelick
Title:“Milk and Wool: Identity of the Anglo-Saxon Wifman in Metrical Charm Six”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Theron Francis
Literature
ABSTRACT: The Old English Metrical Charm, “For a Delayed Birth,” is a keystone text in the study of female health in early Anglo-Saxon society. Previously thought to be one charm, research has revealed and cemented the view that “For a Delayed Birth” is a collection of three charms, all of which serve to remedy different anxieties or ailments that occur before and after childbirth through ritualistic, performative actions. This preservation of female oral tradition has resulted in multiple translations and interpretations, emphasizing gender, social boundaries, and perceptions of fertility or impurity. However, despite the diverse scholarship produced on this collection, two sections remain undefined, both of which utilize specific items: black wool and cow’s milk. Although more recent publications on “For a Delayed Birth” have contributed to understanding the cultural implications of these items, as well as the reasons for their use, scholars continue to disagree on their meaning. Contextualizing the metrical charms within the female domestic sphere of Anglo-Saxon society offers additional insight into the use of these items, particularly in relation to female trades and labor: weaving and caring for livestock. When paired with previous studies that highlight the charms’ use of internal and external thresholds, as well as the social class implications inherent to folk medicine, this examination illustrates that female identity in Anglo-Saxon society was influenced and pressured by male authority.
1:20-1:35pm / UC Espino Room C/D – Room Moderators: Dr. Sally Roche & Dr. Joseph Velasco
Presenter: Aria Duenez
Title:“Reading Text Narratives in the Digital Age: Benefits for Cognitive Development and Second Language Learning”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Sally Roche
Literature & Communication
ABSTRACT: This panel reports secondary research findings on how sustained reading of print narratives as opposed to digital texts develops cognition and supports second language learning. The first speaker, Aria Duenez, reports findings that demonstrate the differences between audiolingual programs and programs that use multi-sensory individual and group reading. Duenez’s sources demonstrate that reading print narratives still leads to more successful second language learning than digital apps. The second speaker, Kimberly Meza, also compares digital and print reading. Meza reports on the challenge of balancing literary engagement and the allure of screens, arguing that reading printed materials has been shown to result in a variety of cognitive benefits. Meza cites sources to caution audiences about the physical and intellectual toll on children of prolonged digital screen use.
1:40-1:55pm / UC Espino Room C/D – Room Moderators: Dr. Sally Roche & Dr. Joseph Velasco
Presenters: Kilian McDonald-Boyer & Madalyn Warren
Title:“GMOs: Let’s Save People” & “Regulating Your Social Media Intake is Beneficial”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Joseph Velasco
Communication
ABSTRACT: GMO stands for genetically modified organism, in simplest terms this means that the DNA of any living organism has been altered through genetic engineering. GMOs have been a part of agriculture for some time and are now being used in other industries and areas of study. The debate between being pro GMOs or against GMOs is an issue that has been heavily argued since the first implications of GMOs into our daily lives. The benefits of GMOs for people can be seen in nutrition, food security, and health care. These genetically modified organisms can be altered to contain more nutrients so help aid malnutrition. Their growing seasons can be altered to produce more food to battle food insecurity and starvation. They can also be used as vesicles for life saving medicine and vaccines in the medical field. This topic raises concerns when it comes to the consumption of GMOs in whether they are safe or not and if there is any evidence to show they can reduce food insecurity. These genetically modified organisms could cause potential health concerns we are not aware of when being consumed. They are also connected to food insecurity and potentially do not provide much relief from that issue. GMOs will aid in current research studies and will continue to provide avenues for future research in both food and medicine. The integration of GMOs into food and medical industries can help solve many problems we as a society face everyday and help to save our people.
1:00-1:15pm / UC Espino Room 210 – Room Moderators: Dr. Julianna Dean & Dr. Eric Busby
Presenter: Anna Campos
Title: “The Association of Muscle Oxygen Saturation in the Vastus Lateralis on Floor Performance in NCAA Division I Female Gymnasts”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Julianna M. Dean
Exercise Science
ABSTRACT: Abundant studies exist on muscle metabolism in athletes participating in traditional sports such as football or basketball; however, there is little research on gymnasts. Gymnastics is usually classified as an anaerobic sport, yet the 90-second floor routine demands contribution from the aerobic energy system. This contribution is unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to describe muscle oxygen levels in the vastus lateralis and observe if there is a correlation between SmO2 levels and scores on floor exercise. We hypothesize that higher SmO2 values will positively correlate with higher average floor routine scores. Our sample includes 19 NCAA Division I female gymnasts actively competing in floor exercise in the 2023-2024 season. During day one, anthropometrics (e.g., height, weight) will be gathered, and athletes will sign consent forms and become familiarized with our research equipment. On day two, we will attach a Moxy Monitor to the vastus lateralis in the participant’s dominant leg, sync it to software, and collect SmO2 data during each participant’s floor routine. Demographics and anthropometrics will be described with frequencies, means, and standard deviations. Average and peak muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) of the vastus lateralis will be described for each participant. Pearson correlations will be performed on the following associations: average muscle oxygen saturation and average floor scores, peak muscle oxygen saturation, and average floor scores. Statistical significance will be set at alpha <0.05. Results pending 2024. These results can benefit athletes, coaches, and other athletic stakeholders to tailor training protocols and maximize performance.
1:20-1:35pm / UC Espino Room 210 – Room Moderators: Dr. Julianna Dean & Dr. Eric Busby
Presenter: Camryn Medina
Title:“The Prevalence of Obesity in NCAA Collegiate Football Players: A Comparison Betwee n Division I & Division II Players”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Billy Jack Ray
Kinesiology
ABSTRACT: Collegiate athletes are assumed to be some of the fittest individuals in health and fitness. However, the preconceived notion that obesity is absent in the lives of college athletes is a misconception. More specifically, collegiate football players alone are at high risk for having increased body mass (fat and fat-free mass) than other athletes. A 2003 study found that “lineman (offensive and defensive) and tight ends were on average greater than 25% body fat, the borderline for obesity…” (Noel et. al., 2003). Dietary habits, sleep patterns, and lack of physical activity outside of athletics are contributors of excess body fat, all of which can be influenced by the division of play athletes compete at. This study will compare the body fat percentage of Division I and Division III NCAA football (FB) players while considering the environment each division encompasses. This research is part of a larger study conducted in the spring of 2023 which assessed the health trends of athletes at an NCAA Division III university. Results showed that out of the 84 FB players, 53% of them were overweight or obese with a body fat percentage greater than 25% (Moody & Medina, 2023). Additionally, a concise literature review will gather published significant data presenting statistics of Division I FB players in order to compare the two findings. This study aims to bring awareness to athletes and society about the prevalence of obesity in even the “fittest” population.
1:40-1:55pm / UC Espino Room 210 – Room Moderators: Dr. Julianna Dean & Dr. Eric Busby
Presenter: Garner Hancock
Title:“Housing Market Analysis for Alpine, Texas”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Eric Busby
Industrial Technology
ABSTRACT: Alpine, Texas, is facing a pressing housing shortage presenting significant challenges for its residents and local economy. We plan to analyze the root problems associated with the shortage and propose potential solutions and outcomes. We will examine housing market trends, supply-and-demand dynamics, rental rates, and housing construction permits. We will gather insights from residents, landlords, real estate agents, and local officials to understand their perspectives on the housing shortage. Several potential root causes may emerge including limited land availability, zoning regulations, lack of affordable housing options, and current inventory conditions and age. We will explore potential solutions to address these issues. This multi-faceted approach will help us gain insight into alleviating pressure on existing housing stock, leading to stabilized rental rates and purchase prices, and ultimately improved affordability.
2:00 – 2:50pm Session Bloc Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
2:00-2:50pm / UC Espino Room A – Moderator: Dr. Theron Francis
Extended Time: 2:00pm-2:50pm
Team Presenters:
Autumn McFadden, Johanna Covington, Alayna Damm, & Kelsey Pavelick
Moderator: Dr. Theron Francis
Title:“A Reading of Creative Writing by Sul Ross Poets and Fiction Writers”
Literature
ABSTRACT: Sul Ross writers will read their creative work and reflect on their creative process:
“Listen,” “Dream On” by Johanna Covington
“Sonder” by Alayna Damm
“Memory of a Clubbing: Winter in Ohio,” “Skunks in Bloom,” “Rabbits in the Desert” by Kelsey Pavelick
“Crimson Memories,” “Breath of Wishes,” “Drops of Remedy,” “Shadows” by Autumn McFadden
2:00-2:15pm / UC Espino Room B – Room Moderator: Dr. Chris Ritzi
Presenter: Sarah Jane Gilbert
Title: “Development and Benefits of a STEM Curatorial Internship”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Chris Ritzi
Natural Sciences
ABSTRACT: Global amphibian biodiversity has steadily declined for decades, primarily resulting from anthropogenic changes via habitat loss and alteration, contaminated waterways, and climate change. Anthropogenic land modifications have been linked to amphibian biodiversity decline and contribute to variances in abundance and species diversity. While negative human impacts are often highlighted, some species see population increases from more available breeding habitats or abundant prey items. Desert-dwelling species rely on ephemeral pools and wetlands for mating, breeding, and tadpole metamorphosis. The study looked at variations in anuran diversity and abundance between two different anthropogenically modified habitats associated with water. The study sites are located in Alpine, Texas, and includes vernal, man-made agricultural stock ponds and land depressions resulting from a dried springhead. Along with examining water quality and depth, perimeter transects will be used for visual and auditory surveying of species richness, abundance, and distribution. I hypothesized that there will be differences in the diversity and abundance of anurans between the two anthropogenically modified wetlands habitats, due to the differences between topography and hydroperiod of each ephemeral site. While I expected to see differences in utilization periods in species, the field season met with unexpected drought conditions. The occupancy of the species after the rain at the sites demonstrated that species will come out to feed and call at known ephemeral pond sites but without ample collection of water, breeding does not appear to occur.
2:20-2:35pm / UC Espino Room B – Room Moderator: Dr. Chris Ritzi
Presenter: Bruno de Batista Medeiros
Title:“Analyzing the Population Structure of the Brazilian Campolina Horse”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Jaime Boyd
Natural Sciences
ABSTRACT: Developed in Brazil, the Campolina horse breed started out by crossing Thoroughbreds, Anglo-Normans, and Andalusian or Lusitano horses. The Campolina demonstrates distinctive phenotypes established in seven decades of controlled selection as four-beat locomotion patterns, a convex profile (Roman), long scissor-shaped ears, and 1,62m minimum withers height for adult males. Still, the Campolina population genetic structure and diversity remains poorly understood. To evaluate the genetic diversity and compare the population structure, we utilized 23 Campolina individuals unrelated to the second degree, genotyped using the GGP Equine (Illumina Inc.), while leveraging publicly available data of 31 breeds of world distribution (N= 753) and 9 Brazilian autochthonous breeds (N=261) that have similar historical background (Petersen et al., 2013; Nogueira et al., 2022). After combining the datasets and removing genotypes with missing rate > 0.01, as well as filtering for LD using 50 SNPs window size, VIF of 5, and R2 of 0.5, 33,756 SNPs remained with a genotyping rate of 0.992. While population structure analysis is ongoing, genomic PCs 1-5 represent 52.20% of the total variance (Karamizadeh et al., 2013), with the Campolina individuals clustering with the Mangalarga Paulista and Pantaneiro, the other two breeds unique to Brazil. While historically the Campolina possesses a connection to Iberian, Thoroughbred, and Anglo-Norman breeds, further investigation will elucidate these complex genetic relationships and regions unique to the breed. The phenotypes demonstrated by the Campolina can also be of interest to expand research efforts in the genomics of locomotion patterns and phenotypic variation of the horse.
2:40-2:55pm / UC Espino Room B – Room Moderator: Dr. Chris Ritzi
Presenter: Ariane Bardassi
Title:“Establishing Grain-Based Modified Protocols For Refeeding Malnourished Horses”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Jaime Boyd
Natural Sciences
ABSTRACT: An 8-week study (January-March 2023) was conducted to evaluate the effects of Total Equine™ on refeeding emaciated horses previously destined for slaughter (avg BCS 2.01 0.69). Horses were quarantined 30d before the study (ad libitum Bermuda hay and water) and evaluated by a veterinarian for treatment as needed, including vaccinations, deworming, and pregnancy checks. After quarantine, horses were divided into two groups based on age, BCS, pregnancy status, and gender. Use of Control (Ctrl) a commercial grain utilized by five West Texas horse rescue groups and Treatment (Trt) Total Equine™ with ad libitum water and hay were compared. Hay was offered 2xd and adjusted daily for a 3% refusal rate. Grain was offered at (0.005% BW + 227kg) divided into 2 equal feedings and adjusted weekly. Horses were provided a 1-hour turnout 6d/wk. Data collected included weekly BW, health parameters, and BCS and blood samples (weeks 0, 4, 8). Samples (grain, hay, hay orts) were collected 2x/wk for analysis of DM, NDF, ADF, EE, CP, and Ash. Data was analyzed using Proc Mixed in SAS. No differences between DMI by diet were observed. Yet, a tendency for increased ADG (P= 0.06) for Trt (Ctrl 0.20 kg/d & Trt 1.34 kg/d) was noted. Efficiency (ADG/DMI) improved (P= 0.04) indicating improvement in efficiency of weight gain for Trt versus Ctrl. Improved weight gain/efficiency of gain is important when rehabilitating horses. The establishment of modified feeding protocols can improve efficiency/reduce costs involved in the rehabilitation of malnourished horses and be a step forward for the equine industry.
2:00-2:15pm / UC Espino Room C/D – Room Moderator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Presenter: Aaron Ortega
Title: “The Power of Rocks: Ecohydrology Improvements For Habitat Restoration”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: The decline of scaled quail (Callipepla squamata) populations has been mainly attributed to habitat degradation. Increasing plant diversity and reducing soil erosion could help alleviate habitat challenges. Therefore, we have deployed a holistic strategy to restore riparian habitat within the Chihuahuan Desert by building structures known as “trincheras” (small rock dams) to improve hydrological processes. We expect restoration efforts to increase water harvest, reduce soil erosion, increase native vegetation, and positively affect soil cover and retention. Restoration efforts began in August of 2021 in a private ranch in Southern Brewster County. To date, we have built 130 trincheras. Of those, 50 have been assessed before and after the rainy seasons of 2022 and 2023 to measure how much soil was retained. We used a Functional Principal Component Analysis to determine how sediments accumulated where trincheras were established. As a result, we found significant accumulation up to and beyond 2m upstream from trincheras. Also, we observed negligible loss of sediments downstream to a distance of 0.5m from the trinchera. Variability in the capture of soil sediments may be related to stream features like slope, soil type, and channel size. This study can guide placement and expectations of ecohydrology improvements, leading to more effective habitat restoration. By increasing soil deposition in riparian areas, trincheras are an effective tool to promote plant production and ground cover in the short term.
2:20-2:35pm / UC Espino Room C/D – Room Moderator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Presenter: Ty Goodwin
Title:“Evaluating The Effects of Grazing Practices on Forage Production, Nutrition, Species Composition, and Soil Moisture in the Marfa Grasslands, Texas”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: Grasslands comprise 20 to 40% of the world’s surface and provide ecosystem services, such as water retention and purification, directly harvested goods, and carbon sequestration. However, grasslands are one of the most rapidly declining ecosystems in the world. Throughout the Anglo-American colonization in Texas during the 1800s, desert grasslands of the Trans-Pecos were subjected to livestock overgrazing and other improper agricultural practices. With increasing wildlife conservation values and extensive historic livestock operations, livestock grazing can enhance wildlife habitat and attain economic benefits. Rotational and continuous grazing systems modify rangelands and provide income for ranching operations. This project aims to identify and compare grass species cover, annual standing crop production, species composition, forage nutrition, and soil moisture between a long-term rotational, continuous, and deferred grazing system in a desert grassland of the Trans-Pecos. Grasses were collected at the end of the 2023 growing season. Random stratified sampling was used to place 270 0.5 m2 plots in all grazing regimes but confined to two soil types (Marfa-clay-loam, and Musquiz-clay-loam). Volumetric soil moisture was taken at each plot with all other floristic data. We expect higher species diversity in the rotational pasture while more coverage by specific dominant species in the continuous pasture. We expect higher forage mass production in the rotational system depending on adequate prior precipitation. Preliminary results suggest that soil types are main drivers for variables tested and grazing systems affect these variables on each soil type differently. The results of this project will allow for grazing to be better used as a management tool to conserve and restore grasslands.
2:40-2:55pm / UC Espino Room C/D – Room Moderator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Presenter: Asia Cornelius
Title:“Exploring Mycorrhizal Dynamics: A Comparative Analysis of Rotational vs. Continuous Grazing Systems“
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: Plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) engage in a symbiotic relationship that enhances water and nutrient uptake, plant growth, and overall soil health. Understanding the impact of grazing practices on mycorrhizal abundance and diversity is crucial for sustainable habitat management. This study investigates the potential differences in mycorrhizal communities associated with blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) in rotationally grazed and continuously grazed pastures. To assess diversity, mycorrhizal spores were extracted from rhizospheric soil via wet sieving and sucrose density gradient centrifugation. Roots were stained using a protocol by Philips and Hayman (1970) to evaluate mycorrhizal colonization and examined using the magnified gridline intersection method. Statistical analyses, including a Redundancy Analysis and the Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index, will evaluate root colonization and species richness. While data collection is ongoing, it is anticipated that rotationally grazed pastures may foster a more diverse and abundant mycorrhizal community than continuously grazed pastures. This study contributes to the understanding of how livestock grazing practices influence belowground microbial communities, with potential implications for nutrient cycling, plant health, and overall pasture sustainability. The results will inform land management strategies and contribute to the broader understanding of sustainable grazing practices.
2:00-2:15pm / UC Espino Room 210 – Room Moderator: Dr. Justin French
Presenter: Elle Sutherland
Title:“Space Use Behavior and Habitat Selection of Elk in the Trans-Pecos”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Justin T. French
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: Little is known about elk (Cervus canadensis) populations in the Trans-Pecos region of Texas. Population estimates suggests there could be approximately 3,500 free-ranging individuals. However, there is minimal information on the dynamics of these populations. These knowledge gaps have come into sharp focus with increased concern for chronic wasting disease (CWD) in the Trans-Pecos. Thus, it is essential to understand the epidemiology of CWD such as space use and drivers of movement in CWD susceptible species such as elk. Pilot data collected from the first three GPS-collared elk in the Trans-Pecos (captured March 2023) showed itinerant movement patterns. This instable space use has substantial implications for disease spread. To further investigate this issue, we used Hidden Markov models (HMMs) to segment the movement path into encamped and roaming states, then evaluated environmental drivers of movement in each state using integrated step-selection functions (iSSFs). We found clear signatures of encamped and roaming behaviors in elk movement patterns, with increased probability of encampment near stream beds with green vegetation. Our iSSF analysis revealed that elk movement routes were influenced by topography and shrub cover. Our top model found that elk in the roaming state selected for landscape concavity (TPI; β = -0.754, SE = 0.0576), avoided rugged terrain (β = -0.495, SE = 0.4572) and a quadratic term suggested preferred elevation between 1200m to 1700m. This study provides a method for elk movement pattern predictions and a basis for future studies to provide insight to CWD transmission pathways in this understudied population.
2:20-2:35pm / UC Espino Room 210 – Room Moderator: Dr. Justin French
Presenter: Andrew Dotray
Title:“Space Use of Sympatric Aoudad and Mule Deer in The Trans-Pecos”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Justin T. French
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: The ecology of Aoudad (Ammotragus lervia) in Texas is poorly understood, where the introduced African species coexist and potentially interact with the native mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus). Aoudad space-use, daily activity cycles, and social dynamics are largely unknown in the Trans-Pecos region of Texas. However, they are important relative to their potential impact on mule deer and desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) recovery in the region. With improved quantitative techniques in movement ecology, aoudad space-use can be readily assessed using the Brownian bridges movement model, calculated using collar data. No literature has quantified aoudad utilization distributions using the BBMM or examined the influence of aerial gunning relative to changes in movement behavior. In March 2023, 40 aoudad and 40 mule deer were captured and collared in the Chinati and Quitman Mountain ranges. Collars record each animal’s location via satellite at 2-hour fixes. To date, utilization distributions have been calculated for each collared individual. Results demonstrate aoudad on average range over wider areas (8.37 km2 in the Quitmans and 9.60 km2 in the Chinatis) compared to mule deer average space-use (4.01 km2 in the Quitmans and 4.27 km2 in the Chinatis). Utilization distribution overlap between species was calculated using the Bhattacharyya’s Affinity (BA) niche overlap metric, resulting in a 61.8% overlap on the Quitmans and 52.9% on the Chinatis. Comparing pre- and post-gunning movement behavior will prove valuable in understanding aoudad response to population management in the region for future development in native big game recovery in Texas.
2:40-2:55pm / UC Espino Room 210 – Room Moderator: Dr. Justin French
Presenter: Matthew Hewitt
Title: “Assessing Temporal Space Use Stability in
The Trans-Pecos Black Bear Population”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Amanda Dutt
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: The recolonizing West Texas black bear (Ursus americanus) population has increased over the last 25 years, with a dramatic increase in the past 5 years, posing new challenges to managers and residents. Monitoring the abundance and distribution of recolonizing black bears is essential to understand the progression of recolonization and inform potential areas of human-bear conflict. Most abundance estimators assume a closed population, which is difficult to satisfy when a population is expanding its range and navigating stochastic environmental patterns in this unique desert environment. However, because bear behavior is highly seasonal, appropriate timing of sampling may satisfy the closure assumption. We examined temporal patterns of space use stability (SUS) among 21 GPS-collared black bears (6F, 15M) in the Trans-Pecos starting Oct 2022. We generated comparative metrics between successive weekly Brownian bridge utilization distributions for each individual, including Pianka’s niche overlap (x̅ = 0.19, SD = 0.26), peak to peak distance (x̅ = 66.19 km, SD = 115.37 km), and 95% isopleth area (x̅ = 77021.25 km2, SD = 98771.78 km2). We used ~600 records in a 2-state hidden Markov model to delineate periods of high and low SUS. While temporal patterns were evident, bear space use was highly unstable in this population. The proportion of bears in the stable state was highest from mid-December to mid-May; therefore, population closure may be a tenable assumption during this time. These results will aid management in planning accurate population monitoring and will provide a better understanding of patterns in bear recolonization.
3:00 – 3:50pm Poster Presentation Bloc – Student Information and Abstracts
3:00-3:50pm / UC Espino Foyer
Poster Presenter: Amber Adams
Title: “Capturing the Diverse Voices of College Students of Divorced Parents Relationships with Peers and Partners”
Faculty Nominator:Dr. Alicia Trotman
Psychology
ABSTRACT:In today’s world, parental divorce is still a significant and persistent reality, especially for college students. While an extensive amount of research has examined the impacts of parental divorce on children, less is known about how it affects young adults who are attending college. In order to close this gap, the complexity of how parental divorce affects college students’ relationships is examined in this research. This study examines the difficulties divorced parents’ college kids encounter in establishing and preserving connections with friends and romantic partners, drawing on prior research and qualitative results. The study may shed light on the challenges these students face, such as problems with identification, trust, and the value of their relationships.
Poster Presenters: Garner Hancock, Hunter Montes
Title:“Housing Market Analysis for Alpine, TX”
Faculty Nominator: Keith Nixon
Galaxy Projects – Construction and Real Estate
Presentation Mode: UC Foyer Poster Bloc with Presenters – 50 min event
ABSTRACT: Alpine, Texas, is facing a pressing housing shortage presenting significant challenges for its residents and local economy. We plan to analyze the root problems associated with the shortage and propose potential solutions and outcomes. We will examine housing market trends, supply-and-demand dynamics, rental rates, and housing construction permits. We will gather insights from residents, landlords, real estate agents, and local officials to understand their perspectives on the housing shortage. Several potential root causes may emerge including limited land availability, zoning regulations, lack of affordable housing options, and current inventory conditions and age. We will explore potential solutions to address these issues. This multi-faceted approach will help us gain insight into alleviating pressure on existing housing stock, leading to stabilized rental rates and purchase prices, and ultimately improved affordability.
Poster Presenter: Emily Blumentritt
Title:“Livestock Tanks for Migratory and Wintering Grassland Birds in The Trans-Pecos”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Maureen Frank
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: Many grassland bird species are undergoing steep population declines, including many birds that winter in the Chihuahuan Desert grasslands. Overwintering birds in this region have declined by 70%. However, there is little data on habitat preferences and resource utilization for many grassland bird species during migration and winter. In the arid landscape of the Chihuahuan Desert, livestock tanks may be an important water source for birds, and potentially an important food source as well for birds that feed on invertebrates in moist soils. Our study will document which migrating and wintering birds utilize livestock tanks, and what characteristics of livestock tanks relate to bird diversity and abundance. We are using automated recording units (ARUs) and point-count surveys at dirt livestock tanks to determine bird species presence, abundance, and behavior. Characteristics sampled at each tank include soil invertebrates and environmental characteristics such as shrub density and soil moisture. Early surveys have documented 35 species of birds actively using the tanks and engaging in a variety of behaviors. The variety of birds utilizing the tanks has included raptors, shorebirds, warblers, sparrows, flycatchers, and ducks. Tanks with and without water can both provide appealing habitat to birds, as moist soils within dry tanks lead to plant growth that differs from the surrounding grassland and to soil invertebrate foraging opportunities. Knowing more about how birds use livestock tanks as a resource can help inform management decisions to conserve imperiled bird populations, especially on private rangelands.
Poster Presenter: Syndilyn Maguglin
Title:“Occurrence of Cryptic and Low-Density Owl Species in the Davis Mountains”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Maureen Frank
Wildlife Ecology
ABSTRACT: Several cryptic owl species are present in the Davis Mountains but have only been detected occasionally. Flammulated owls (Psiloscops flammeolus) are a rare migratory species that are thought to arrive in West Texas during the summer and are found primarily in dry forests with tall coniferous trees. Northern saw-whet owls (Aegolius acadicus) may occur year-round and prefer dense coniferous forests. Western screech-owls (Megascops kennicottii) occur year-round in the Davis Mountains and are adaptable to a wide range of habitats. Elf owls (Micrathene whitneyi) are found only in the summer in the western part of the state. They nest in tree and cactus cavities in desert woodlands and pine-oak forests. To detect these four species, we placed automated recording units (ARUs) in suitable owl habitat within the Davis Mountains Preserve (DMP), which is owned by The Nature Conservancy. The ARUs were set to record from 18 June until 17 July 2023. We are using BirdNet and Kaleidoscope software to detect species based on their unique calls. Of the nine ARU locations analyzed so far for the month of June, we have detected flammulated owls, northern saw-whet owls, and western screech-owls at six locations each, and elf owls at two locations. Each location had at least one target species present, and three locations had three target species detected. Ongoing work will include analyzing the rest of the data and conducting field surveys at the DMP to confirm owl presence at each ARU location.
Poster Presenter: Audrey Taulli
Title:“Avian Community Response to Removal of Encroaching Woody Vegetation in Trans-Pecos Grasslands”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Maureen Frank
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: The grasslands of North America are one of the fastest declining habitat types on the continent. This is due to a variety of reasons, including energy conversion, livestock grazing, and woody plant encroachment. As a result of this habitat loss, grassland-obligate bird species are in steep decline across the continent. An estimated 88% of migratory grassland birds overwinter in the Chihuahuan Desert. Woody plant encroachment within the Chihuahuan Desert has decreased available grasses, leading to a reduction in winter food availability and nocturnal thermal cover. Encroached woody vegetation also provides more habitat and perching opportunities for avian predator species, such as loggerhead shrikes (Lanius ludovicianus) and American kestrels (Falco sparverius). Grassland restoration efforts typically involve brush removal using herbicide, mechanical removal, and fire. In the Trans-Pecos, we will study sites within the Marathon and Marfa grasslands where herbicide and mechanical removal have been used on mesquite varieties (Prosopis glandulosa Torr. var. glandulosa and Prosopis glandulosa Torr. var. torreyana), creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), and tarbush (Flourensia venus). We will be conducting non-breeding bird surveys and vegetation surveys across a control site, a site 4 years post herbicide treatment, and a site that used mechanical removal 4 years after having been treated with herbicide. Our results will help inform broad-scale restoration that will hopefully result in increases for species currently listed as Species of Greatest Conservation Need.
Poster Presenter: Nathan Thompson
Title:“Curation and Display of Rock and Mineral Sample”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Kesse Kelsch
Geology
ABSTRACT: The geology program at Sul Ross has drawn from a large collection of rocks and minerals for its classroom education for years, but this collection to date has not been inventoried or well described. As the rock and mineral curatorial intern, I work on this inventory and description of the specimens, specifically those in room 207 of Warnock Science Building. Additionally, the Warnock Science Building has display cases to exhibit high quality specimens, but these displays have not been updated in many years. The geology program recently received some specially donated samples, which need to be cut and polished for display. Training to use the equipment must be completed first to do so. I am using Microsoft Excel to log the samples and build the inventory, while taking note of samples that would fit the various themes of the displays. A row on the Excel spreadsheet includes data for one bin of samples like rock type/mineral, sample name, details on rock/min. type (ex. intrusive or extrusive for igneous rocks) and specifics for sample name, quantity of samples, the condition of samples, and a simple code for swift identification. While the project is still incomplete at the time of this symposium presentation, I expect that having a accessible digital inventory of specimens will assist instructors in knowing what usable teaching materials the program holds. Further, the display cases will be updated and more relevant to the viewer, and a “community show-and-tell” outreach event will unveil the changes.
Poster Presenter: Sarah Jane Gilbert
Title: “Abundance And Diversity Of Anurans Between Two Anthropogenic Wetland Habitats On Sul Ross Property”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Thor Larson
Biology
ABSTRACT: Global amphibian biodiversity has steadily declined for decades, primarily resulting from anthropogenic changes via habitat loss and alteration, contaminated waterways, and climate change. Anthropogenic land modifications have been linked to amphibian biodiversity decline and contribute to variances in abundance and species diversity. While negative human impacts are often highlighted, some species see population increases from more available breeding habitats or abundant prey items. Desert-dwelling species rely on ephemeral pools and wetlands for mating, breeding, and tadpole metamorphosis. The study looked at variations in anuran diversity and abundance between two different anthropogenically modified habitats associated with water. The study sites are located in Alpine, Texas, and includes vernal, man-made agricultural stock ponds and land depressions resulting from a dried springhead. Along with examining water quality and depth, perimeter transects will be used for visual and auditory surveying of species richness, abundance, and distribution. I hypothesized that there will be differences in the diversity and abundance of anurans between the two anthropogenically modified wetlands habitats, due to the differences between topography and hydroperiod of each ephemeral site. While I expected to see differences in utilization periods in species, the field season met with unexpected drought conditions. The occupancy of the species after the rain at the sites demonstrated that species will come out to feed and call at known ephemeral pond sites but without ample collection of water, breeding does not appear to occur.
Poster Presenter: Alfredo Nunez
Title: “Hydration Status of NCAA Division III Female Basketball Athletes”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Hugh Morrissey
Kinesiology
ABSTRACT: Our study will examine female collegiate basketball players at SRSU. This study will follow protocols of past peer-reviewed research studies. “Hydration for Health Hypothesis: a narrative review of supporting evidence” reviewed the biological importance of water and how increased water intake affects health and performance. As the past peer-reviewed research studied men collegiate athletes in the Division I level, we will be implicating Division III women’s basketball players. The purpose of our research is to see how Division III athletes implicate hydration in their normal everyday lifestyle, leading to competition day, and see how water and a specific hydration tablet can affect their performance. Inclusion criteria are female basketball athletes at Sul Ross State University, ages 18 and older, who are cleared to participate by the head coach, and are eligible to compete in the 2023-2024 season according to NCAA DIII rules, and are apparently healthy according to the American College of Sports Medicine. I will be recruiting participants through the head basketball coach at Sul Ross State University. No materials will be used to recruit participant, only word of mouth through the head coach. This is an experimental study to identify a relationship between electrolyte supplementation and hydration status in Division III female basketball players. Sixteen female basketball players will participate over three days of procedures. Descriptive statistics will be performed on participants’ anthropometrics and demographics. Dependent t-tests will be performed on the means of participants’ urine-specific gravity to determine if there is a significant difference in hydration status between the baseline (day 1) values and day 3 values. Additionally, dependent t-tests will be performed on the means of the results to the fatigue survey to determine if there was a significant difference between scores at baseline (day 1) and day 3. Two separate repeated-measures ANOVA will be considered for hydration status and the fatigue survey to look at the differences in those measures at the start of the study, and during the two collection periods (baseline [day 1], day 2, day 3).
Poster Presenter: Jimena Proana
Title: “Nutrition And The Menstrual Cycle And How Women Are Using Specific Nutrient Planning To Better Navigate Their Menstrual Cycle”
Faculty Nominator: Mary Powers
Health and Physical Sciences/Kinesiology
ABSTRACT: Nutrition is a big factor in women’s lives because “we are what we eat.” This means that by eating the right food, women may make a big difference in their bodies and how they feel each day. The female body is unique in its reproductive capabilities. During the menstrual phase, symptoms such as low energy levels can occur. Learning how to eat correctly in the menstrual phase may help women reach their peak bodily performance levels, be able to better work within the cycle, and to feel better.
Poster Presenter: Yolanda Rey Carlos
Title: “Using Photovoice to Investigate Sources of Failure Among High-Achieving Mexican-American Female Undergraduate Students”
Faculty Nominator: Kathleen Rivers
Psychology
ABSTRACT: A number of students at the college level often succeed and graduate within the four-year timeframe. However, some students fear failure to such an extent that it impedes completion of their degree (Nyikos, 2020). According to Loxton et al. (2018), the influence of neoliberalist politics on education has left a stigma of failure among university students who believe that they always must succeed at every level. Therefore, many university students feel ashamed of their fear of failure. This leads to unhealthy coping tactics such as isolation, which feeds a repetitive cycle (Loxton et al., 2018). Stuart (2013) found that female, first-year undergraduate students who are first generation and from ethnic minorities develop fear of failure from shame and an overwhelming uncertainty of their future. She argues that these fears often go undetected because the assessments used do not measure fear of failure reliably, and there is very little mentorship for these students prior to coming to college (Stuart, 2013). Specifically for female students, shame-proneness seems to be more salient due to the belief that significant relationships will change (Stuart, 2013). Female students apparently prioritize the quality of their relationships, so succeeding or failing in an academic setting can positively or negatively impact their status in relationships, and this impact challenges societal and cultural norms for women. These challenges are observed among the Hispanic population since family expectations conflict with the academic expectations, in such a way that Hispanic students struggle to determine if it is more important to help their family or themselves (Alva, 1991; Crisp et al., 2015). Very few studies use Photovoice to provide undergraduate students with an outlet to examine their perspective of conflicts or struggles they face when attempting to achieve their goals (O’Malley & Munsell, 2020). This study will use photovoice to provide high achieving Latina students a voice to help capture images of their fear of failure and fear of success as they attempt to obtain their degrees. This study is important because it brings attention to the gender normative and cultural obstacles that high-achieving Latina undergraduate students may face in their academic journey (Crisp et al., 2015; Stuart, 2013). Although there are many factors that may contribute to fear of failure and success in a Latina’s academic journey, this study will focus on five areas: (1) quality of relationships; (2) transition to first year of college; (3) mentoring; (4) goal orientation; and (5) participation in extra-curricular activities. Participants will be asked to use photovoice as they think about these areas, and a qualitative study will be conducted to analyze the themes that emerge from these areas. Other variables (e.g. family home experiences) may be responsible for how some Hispanic students showed lower performance grades at the end of the semester despite no significance with fear of failure (Crisp et al., 2015; Stuart, 2018). Consequently, participants may find this study beneficial because it provides them with a voice of their own experiences that may prove indirectly significant. If accepted, the results of this study will be analyzed by the time the conference is held.
Poster Presenter: Marley Rokas
Title: “Policy Proposal for Comparative Politics”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Yen-Hsin Chin
Political Science
ABSTRACT: Policy proposal that designs a constitutional arrangement most appropriate to amend the consequences of the previous government for the Democratic Republic of the Congo is presented. The argument includes a design of executive power, the structure of the legislature, the electoral system, and territorial division of power using concept, themes, or theories.
Poster Presenter: Ryan Smith
Title: “Preparing and Cataloguing Vertebrate Fossil Bones”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Thomas Shiller
Paleontology
ABSTRACT: The Sul Ross geology program houses several important vertebrate fossil specimens. Many of these specimens have been collected from Big Bend National Park and reside at Sul Ross for scientific study. Many of these fossils need to be prepared and cataloged for analysis and transport to a federal repository. One of the chief goals of the Title III internship is to provide instruction and experience for the paleontology intern. Preparation for lab work required independent research of hadrosaur (duck-billed dinosaur) skeletal anatomy and lab tool usage. Once trained on techniques, Dr. Shiller supervised the cleaning and reconstruction of various hadrosaur elements. This is a systematic process requiring the use of picks, brushes, pneumatic hand tools, specialized adhesives, and polymer epoxy. A secondary goal of the paleontology internship is to transfer a large sauropod (long-necked dinosaur) vertebra to a new, larger lab space on campus. Once at the new lab, the vertebra will be removed from its protective plaster jacket, cleaned, and catalogued. The techniques and experience gained over the course of this internship will be valuable in future academic and professional pursuits in paleontology.
Poster Presenter: Cassandra Espinoza
Title:“’Why Are You Not Playing?’ The Relationship Dynamics Between Female Athletes, Their Coaches, And Families”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Alicia Trotman
Psychology
ABSTRACT: Athletics consistently has grown over the years in participation and cultural significance; however, the mental health of athletes has not experienced equal attention growth rates. As sports progresses in college and university settings, it appears athletes are put through more work expectations. In addition, the stressors that female college athletes deal with differ from non-athletes (Hussey, Donohue, Barchard, & Allen, 2019). College athletes may possibly be doing twice the work as their classmates due to practices, games, and missed classwork due to traveling. They must continue to complete all the work being asked of them, while still attempting to make time to socialize and for themselves. Athletes also go through tough mental aspects of being a college athlete while their bodies are often exhausted from the hours of work they do during the week to better themselves for their sport. Recent research discovered that female college athletes tend to be more exhausted than males, while more research needs to be conducted in this area (Randall & Vopat, 2022). Additionally, the relationships that female athletes share with their coaches and families appear to have the most impact on their mental health, whether it is beneficial or detrimental. The purpose of this study is to attempt to discover the positive and negative impact of the relationships between female student-athletes, coaches, and their families.
Poster Presenter: Paloma Mancha
Title: “Exploring The Needs Of The People Diagnosed With Borderline Personality Disorder And Their Family Members”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Alicia Trotman
Psychology
ABSTRACT: Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a complex mental disorder that develops due to the implications of intense emotional bonds and trauma (Kay et al., 2018, as cited in Bateman and Fonagy, 2003). The American Psychological Association, (2013) states that BPD affects 2% of the general population but 1.6% to 5.6% according to the DSM-5 could potentially be diagnosed of the entire population. People diagnosed with BPD experience unstable moods, and relationships and have difficulty with emotional regulation (Kay et al., 2018). People with BPD often self-harm as a coping mechanism to manage their intense emotions, and suicide attempts are common among this population. (Kverme et al., 2019). Lawn & McMahon (2015) emphasize that people with BPD undergo various challenges as well as the family members who support them. This study will explore the first-person perspectives of people diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and their family members. The results of the data are predicted to discover contributing information regarding the first-person view of having a relative with BPD and the counter view of a person diagnosed with BPD and their experience with their family members.
Poster Presenter: Karla Ramos
Title: “Observing The Effects Of Zumba Dance On Emotional Expression And Internalizing Problems Among Female Participants”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Alicia Trotman
Psychology
ABSTRACT: Dance is an art form where the movement of the body is used to the rhythm of music that allows human beings to express feelings and emotions through the body. Horwitz, Lennartson, Theorell & Ullén (2015) categorize dance as a way in which to observe cognitive and sensorimotor brain activity. There are three problems that have surfaced in the literature to describe human difficulty with feeling their emotions. The first problem is a diagnosis called alexithymia and the second problem is an emotional struggle with feeling energy within the body. Finally, the third problem is somatic symptoms that females tend to have more of when dealing with stress. The research has shown that most of these problems can be alleviated with dance (Bräuninger, 2012; Salihu et al., 2021). My hypotheses are that there will be differences between female dancers and non-dancers in terms of (1) identifying more accurately how they feel, and (2) having better coping mechanisms for stress.
Poster Presenter: Estrella Escobedo
Title: “The Correlation Between Friends And Emerging Young Latino Couple’s Romantic Conflict In Relationship Work”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Alicia Trotman
Conflict In Relationship-Work
ABSTRACT: Have you ever wondered how the different types of people play a part in influencing one’s romantic relationship? Research has proven that parents and friends are a factor in changing a couple’s dynamic (Jensen et al., 2018). Jensen, et al., (2018) discovered that couples who communicate with their partners were more satisfied in their relationship than when talking to their friends or parents. However, disclosing romantic conflicts to your social network could impact one’s relationship negatively (Jensen & Rauer, 2014). Research by Jensen and Rauer (2014) argue that this finding may be due to one’s relationship work (RW) as one may disclose to these individuals regarding one’s romantic conflict and receive feedback, which then leads to how a third party shapes a couple’s dynamic. Few studies have yet to explore what young adults are disclosing to their social networks and who they are turning to among the diverse population, particularly Latinos. This study aims to examine the relations among how RW links to romantic relationships in young Latino college students.
Poster Presenter: Sydney Bauer
Title: “Compiling The John Olson Library, A Collection Of Hydrogeologic History Of The Trans-Pecos”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Kevin Urbanczyk
Hydrogeology
ABSTRACT: John Olson, a former professor of Geology at Sul Ross State University, left behind his library full of hydrology reports, correspondences, and data, related to the Alpine area, when he retired in the early 2000s. This library has been kept intact by the current Geology faculty, but it has never been cataloged or set up for frequent use. The scope of this project is to fully catalog the contents of the Olson Library, by creating a database with a bibliographic file for each reference. Using an open-source software, JabRef, I will be able to catalog all the works including the documents that aren’t as common as peer reviewed articles or published reports. Many of the documents in the library are in unfamiliar forms like unpublished reports, government reports, several and various methods of communication, and well logs. With the completion of this project, the documents in the Olson Library will be fully cataloged and accessible for frequent use by future students and geology faculty studying hydrology in the Alpine area. The historic water level data included in the library could fill some of the data gaps that exist in the record of Alpine area wells. This data could lead to another project, used in conjunction with other well-monitoring efforts from the area to analyze the effect that the population has had on the local groundwater over time. With groundwater and the future of water being a key topic in the region, these resources will help to provide a broader understanding of the history of groundwater in the area.
Poster Presenter: Jacob Spurlock
Title: “Breaking Down the Barriers: Using Relational Dialectics Theory to Better Understand How Male Victims of Sexual Violence Communicate Experiences and Behaviors”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Joseph Velasco
Communications
ABSTRACT: Research on the communication behaviors of male victims of sexual violence, harassment, and assault reveals several crucial findings. Masho (2009) found that most male victims do not seek professional help; however, physical injury and threat encourages victims to seek help. Findings suggest the current media coverage of delayed sexual harassment accusations resulted in the attribution of negative motives toward the victim of sexual harassment, therefore increasing victim blaming (Von Sikorski & Saumer, 2020). Mezey (1987) highlighted the stigma and underreporting experienced by male victims, calling for increased recognition and support. Scarduzio (2018) explored the experiences of male victims of male-to-male sexual harassment, highlighting their experiences of self-doubt, intimidation, and their compromise with masculine identities. These studies collectively underscore the need for a deeper understanding of the communication behaviors of male victims and the societal factors that influence their experiences (Scarduzio & Geist-Martin, 2010; Scarduzio et al., 2018; Scarduzio et al., 2020).
Poster Presenter: Kilian McDonald-Boyer
Title: “Investigating a Drought-Tolerant Model Organism”
Faculty Nominator: Kelsey Wogan
Biology
ABSTRACT: Production of biopharmaceuticals, that is, medicine and vaccines grown within plants through recombinant DNA technology, is an emerging field. Currently, several drugs/vaccines produced via this method have been approved for human use. Biopharmaceutical researchers have focused primarily on using tobacco plants (particularly Nicotiana benthamiana). As one of the advantages of biopharmaceuticals is the ability to quickly produce vaccines/medications in areas which lack the infrastructure and financing for large scale vaccine/medication manufacturing, working toward biopharming plants that grow in a range of climates is a necessity. Tobacco plants grow quickly with large leaf mass, which is important as the largest part of the desired biopharmaceutical is produced in the leaf structure (Tremblay, R. et al), except that they are better suited to wet climates. My aim is to work with Palmer amaranth as an alternative plant that is fast growing, drought tolerant, and less water-demanding. Currently, there is a COVID-19 vaccine that is biopharmed (produced in a plant) in the afore-mentioned tobacco plant. To determine whether Palmer amaranth is a proper subject for biopharming COVID-19 vaccines, I will be utilizing recombinant DNA technology to create VLP (Virus Like Particles). I have selected Palmer amaranth due to its fast growth rate (of approximately 2─3 inches per day) large growth capacity (commonly reaches heights of 6-8 feet), low water requirements, and drought tolerance. In considering these plants used in biopharming in emergency situations, it is especially promising that these plants can germinate and grow to substantial size following a single rain (Ehlringer 1983).
Poster Presenter: John Polster
Title: “Why Digitizing the Herbarium is Important”
Faculty Nominator: Kelsey Wogan
Natural Resource Management
ABSTRACT: Plants are one of the main reasons that life as we know it is possible on earth. Everyone knows something about different types of plants: Some plants are vegetables, some are poisonous, some provide good livestock food, or some provide wildlife cover, and many other things. Regardless, plants serve major roles that benefit people in many different ways. How do we keep track of the varieties and their purposes? How do we even track the many species which may exist on earth? How do we know if plants have been discovered before, and how do we keep track of where they occur? An herbarium is the answer to all of these questions, and more! To the regular person, an herbarium sounds like it is just a room full of dead plants, but to the plant scholar, an herbarium is the repository of information and history, science and catalogue. In my poster, I will explain the basic purpose of an herbarium and some of their important uses of the herbarium and explore why it is so important in the modern age to digitize these vital resources.
With a world that is increasingly dependent on and structured around technology, we must utilize modern techniques and make the physical specimens that we curate available online for broader access and wider use. Scientists and researchers across the world have been analyzing metadata available from digitized collections for everything from AI-generated species identification to climate change phenomena. Fragile specimens are not compromised in this setting, and the physical location of the herbaria no longer prove barriers to research. The purpose of an herbarium is to share with the public the plants discovered across hundreds if not thousands of years all over the world. By digitizing the herbarium, we make it much more accessible for everyone to view these plants and the valuable information they provide.
4:00 – 4:50pm Session Bloc Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
4:00-4:50pm / UC Espino Room A – Moderator: Dr. Joseph Velasco
Extended Time: 4:00pm-4:50pm
Team Presenters: Jailyn Moore, Celeste De La Rosa, Dalan Hunter, Eric Loy, Caitlyn Peña, & Hanna Vidal
Moderator: Dr. Joseph Velasco
Communication
Title:“Public Speaking Persuasive Speeches”
ABSTRACT: This session showcases the oratory skills of undergraduate students in Business & Professional Communication and Public Speaking. Topics range from mental health, physical health, nutrition, and sex. Speech titles:
- Speech: Negligence, Abusive Leadership, and the Medical Malpractice today in the US Military
- Should Biological Males be Allowed to Play Women’s Sports?
- Stop Fast Fashion
- Technology: The Newest Poison
- High-fructose Corn Syrup: The Dilemma
- Red Flag Laws
- “Trip” Living by the Bible Encourages a Healthy Lifestyle
4:00-4:15pm / UC Espino Room B – Room Moderator: Dr. Ryan Luna
Presenter: David Tonnessen
Title:“Passive Acoustic Techniques to Monitor Montezuma Quail Populations”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Ryan Luna
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: Passive Acoustic Monitoring has been touted as an efficient and cost-effective method of monitoring wildlife, but thus far has largely been deployed as a method of monitoring whales, amphibians, and songbirds. Effectively surveying for gamebirds requires different methods than for songbirds, and, due to its secretive nature and little existing literature, no standardized survey protocol has been applied for the Montezuma Quail (Cyrtonyx montezumae). In this study, we test the efficacy of two different acoustic methods in estimating densities of this cryptic gamebird species, predicting that higher vocal activity correlates positively with local quail abundance. Between 48 Autonomous Recording units dispersed over 3 habitat suitability levels across the Davis Mountains of West Texas, we will use the BirdNet analysis software to 1) calculate Montezuma Quail Vocal Activity Rates and 2) calculate average occupancy scores, comparing these two variables with quail densities obtained from physical observer flush-counts over corresponding detection radii. We expect to find a high positive correlation of both Vocal Activity Rate and average occupancy scores with Montezuma Quail densities. This is the first attempt at deploying passive acoustic techniques to estimate populations of any member of the Galliformes and could have implications for using such methods in population estimation among other taxa in the future.
4:20-4:35pm / UC Espino Room B – Room Moderator: Dr. Ryan Luna
Presenter: Andres Solorio
Title:“Restoration of Native Vegetation in Areas Invaded by Lehmann’s Love Grass”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: Native and non-native grassland species interact and compete for space and resources. Sometimes, those negative interactions can affect native species by leading them to eradication and converting a rangeland into monocultures. This is due to non-native species having aggressive behavior and better response than natives towards drought and wildfires. Also, some non-native plant species are not preferred by wildlife. For example, scaled quail (Callipepla squamata) habitat is indirectly affected by negative interactions with invasive species such as Lehmann Love Grass (Eragrostis lehmanniana). Therefore, we initiated a restoration project to mitigate Lehmann Lovegrass monocultures and increase native plants for scaled quail. This project was located in Southern Brewster County and is part of the Chihuahua Desert. Our goal is to evaluate ways to decrease and control Lehmann Lovegrass. Therefore, we established 200 plots, 16 m2 each, with 4 treatments. Treatments are soil disturbance, native plant seeding, soil disturbance and seeding, and a Control. We used 3 line intersections in each plot. We implemented treatments during the summer of 2022. Data was taken in the post-rainy season in October 2022, the winter season in February 2023, and will continue to be measured for two years. Data already collected was treated with a RDA to find relationships between treatments and species. Preliminary results indicate that in both seasons, LLG is still present, but seeding, and soil disturbance and seeding treatments have more relation with native plant species and LLG is more related with controls. While soil disturbance treatment has a negative relation with LLG.
4:40-4:55pm / UC Espino Room B – Room Moderator: Dr. Ryan Luna
Presenter: Gray Hancock
Title:“New and Old Technologies For Soil Erosion Control: Using Remote Sensing To Monitor The Effectiveness of Trincheras“
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: Soil erosion is a widespread problem that leads to habitat degradation and topsoil loss. Understanding this process is essential for restoring rangeland communities and targeting efficient management strategies. With recent advancements in remote sensing technology, UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) are capable of efficiently collecting large amounts of data while minimizing input and observation costs that help monitor landscape changes over time. This project aims to monitor the effectiveness of trincheras (i.e., rock filter dams) at retaining topsoil. We will do this by constructing 3D models of drainage channels using UAV acquired imagery. We will capture oblique angle images taken from multiple perspectives of the channel and then use them to construct a 3D model using the SFM (Structure from Motion) technique. Image sensor, flight altitude, and image overlap can contribute to variability in resolution of the 3D models. We will assess different combinations of flight altitude, image overlap, and camera sensors to maximize the resolution and assess geomorphic changes over time. After a desired framework process is developed, we will use the heights from the 3D models to monitor sediment accumulation from the trincheras. This process can give us a volume of soil accumulated at trinchera locations and guide management on where to place erosion control structures to maximize efficiency of topsoil retention.
4:00-4:15pm / UC Espino Room C/D – Room Moderator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Presenter: Hailey Barton
Title:“Seasonality of Competition Potential Between Desert Bighorn and Mule Deer on Elephant Mountain Wildlife Management Area”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: Elephant Mountain Wildlife Management Area (EMWMA) serves as a nursery herd for ongoing desert bighorn (Ovis canadensis) restoration efforts. Consequently, the primary management objective is production of surplus animals for use as source stock for translocation. However, EMWMA also provides public hunting opportunities, particularly for mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus). Thus, maintaining a healthy mule deer population is also a key management goal on EMWMA. The area is unique in the high degree of spatial overlap between the two species, presumably leading to competition for resources. However, seasonal shifts in space use by each species may exacerbate or curtail competition. Our goal was to identify potential seasonality in both space use and resource competition between species. In March 2023, we deployed Global Positioning System collars on 30 bighorn sheep and 24 mule deer to investigate temporal patterns of space use. We fit monthly Brownian bridge utilization distributions (UDs) to the movement path of each individual, then combined them to produce monthly UDs at the species level. We then measured overlap between species each month using Bhattacharya’s Affinity (BA). Finally, we modeled seasonality of overlap between groups with periodic beta regression models. We found evidence of seasonality in spatial overlap, with maximum overlap during July (BA = 0.59) and minimum overlap during October (BA = 0.40). Our results suggest seasonality of bighorn space use is driven by social behaviors (e.g. rut), but may mitigate potential for resource competition with mule deer at EMWMA.
4:20-4:35pm / UC Espino Room C/D – Room Moderator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Presenter: Chris Mott
Title:“Arid Ecosystem Health Through Livestock Grazing Systems: The Effects on Dung Beetles”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: In arid environments, understanding the intricate dynamics of ecosystem health is paramount for conservation and sustainable management practices, with dung beetles as indicators of ecosystem health, particularly in the context of different livestock grazing systems. Through a comparative analysis of rotational, continuous, and deferred livestock grazing practices, this study sheds light on the impact of grazing regimes on dung beetle diversity and abundance. Our findings reveal a compelling correlation between grazing management strategies and dung beetle populations. Specifically, the rotational grazing system had higher diversity and quantity of dung beetles than continuous and deferred grazing methods. We observed four different species of dung beetles including Euoniticellus intermedius, Digitonthophagus gazella, Canthon sp., and Phanaeus tecensis. We noticed higher numbers and diversity in the rotational pasture, with Digithonthophagus gazella and Euoniticellus intermedius being the most prevalent species. There were more beetles in the rotational pasture compared to continuous. These results underscore the potential of rotational grazing in fostering a more resilient ecosystem in arid environments. However, it is vital to acknowledge the complexity of ecological interactions within these systems. Further research is warranted to unravel the intricate relationship between livestock grazing, dung beetle populations, and vegetation community dynamics. Understanding how vegetation communities respond to different grazing intensities is crucial in interpreting the observed patterns in dung beetle abundance and diversity.
4:40-4:55pm / UC Espino Room C/D – Room Moderator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Presenter: Caleb Hughes
Title: “Winter Habitat Selection and Movement Behavior of Scaled Quail in the Trans-Pecos, Texas“
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: Scaled quail (Callipepla squamata) have experienced population declines in the last several decades due to habitat degradation. This compounds seasonal reductions in resources, such as those occurring during winter the Trans-Pecos region, where scaled quail face reduced food and cover availability amidst periodic winter climate events. As these factors can prompt behavioral responses to resultant changes in habitat quality, monitoring spatial behaviors can lend insight into how scaled quail respond to winter conditions. We hypothesized scaled quail would use supplemental resources and select for hydrologic features that offer greater availability of food, cover and thermal refuge. We trapped scaled quail in southern Brewster County, Texas, during winter 2022-2023 using walk-in funnel traps and fit 37 individuals with Global Positioning System (GPS) backpacks to obtain winter location data. We modelled spatial behaviors with an integrated Step Selection Analysis, using distance to quail feeders, Topographic Position Index (TPI), monthly Modified Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (MSAVI), slope, and ambient temperature as covariates. Scaled quail selected for quail feeders and hydrologic features and expressed functional responses to slope and greenness, revealing various selection strengths for low to moderate values of these variables. Scaled quail also exhibited reduced step lengths near feeders. Reduced movement near feeders may illustrate their role in reducing foraging effort and offsetting winter energy deficits. Scaled quail’s positive relationship to greenness and hydrologic features illustrate the importance of landscape factors that facilitate vegetation carryover into winter, providing microsites that help scaled quail buffer the challenges of Trans-Pecos winters
4:00-4:15pm / UC Espino Room 210 – Room Moderator: Dr. Kevin Urbanczyk
Presenter: Payton White
Title:“Equine Industry Professionals Attitudinal Differences Toward Horse Gender“
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carl Igo
Biology
ABSTRACT: In the Equine industry, from ranch horses to Olympic-competition horses, the animals have traditionally been selected for purpose based on animal gender. Except in very specific cases, females (mares) and castrated males (geldings) are much more commonly used than intact males (stallions). There has been limited research focused on the reasons behind those selections. The purpose of this research is to assess the perceptions of equine industry professionals in the United States in relation to the selection of horses based on breed, gender, and use. This project is the U.S. iteration of a multi-national project that includes Australia and Brazil. The researcher will use a descriptive methodology with a QualtricsTM-based survey instrument. The population frame includes individuals across all sectors of the equine industry. Convenience sampling will be used. Links to the data collection instrument will be sent out via email to numerous university equine programs, veterinary clinics, and equine associations within the U.S.
Respondents will be tasked with a scenario wherein they must allocate four hypothetical riders with differing genders and ages to three hypothetical horses of the same age and training level. Subjects will also be asked a series of questions to assess preconceived stereotypical biases towards horses based on gender of the animal. Additionally, selected demographic data will be collected from respondents in order to determine differences in attitudes and perceptions across different segments of the equine industry. The data will be categorized and analyzed using descriptive analysis, linear regression, and binomial generalized linear models.
4:20-4:35pm / UC Espino Room 210 – Room Moderator: Dr. Kevin Urbanczyk
Presenter: Chris Wright
Title:“An Assessment of Water Chemistry in Springs in the Lower Canyons, Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River“
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Kevin Urbanczyk
Geology
ABSTRACT: The Lower Canyons (LC) reach of the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River defines the U.S.-Mexico international border downstream from Big Bend National Park (BBNP) between La Linda and Dryden, Texas. Numerous springs issue from a trans-boundary aquifer in the area. The inflow of the springs improves the water quality and quantity in the Rio Grande by increasing flow and diluting the total dissolved solids (TDS). This research is focused on evaluating the chemical characteristics of these springs in order to better understand the regional groundwater flow paths and recharge areas. Two groups of springs have been identified and are distinguished by their TDS values. These groups can also be distinguished by their stable isotope values (d18O and d2H). The spring water chemistry matches similar groundwater samples on the U.S. side of the river implying a recharge area in the U.S. Similar studies need to be conducted on the Mexico side to determine possible recharge contributing to this important binational water source.
4:40-4:55pm / UC Espino Room 210 – Room Moderator: Dr. Kevin Urbanczyk
Presenter: Andres Gomez
Title: “Impacts of Sublethal Pesticides on Fruit Flies“
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Chris Ritzi
Natural Sciences
ABSTRACT: The widespread use of pesticides in agriculture has raised concerns about their potential long-term effects on organisms. Drosophila melanogaster will be used as a model organism due to its short generation time, genetic similarity, ease of manipulation and observable phenotypes. It is known as a nuisance due to its fast reproduction and the potential to contaminate food with bacteria and pathogens leading for the product to decay, posing a significant threat to agricultural productivity worldwide, which leads to substantial economic loses. Through controlled laboratory experiments, we will examine the reproductive success, development abnormalities, and survival rates of fruit flies across multiple generations following exposure to commonly used pesticides. This research will analyze the correlation that exists between the aftermath of pesticides and the future generations of this known pest insect. To address the question of the effects of resistance or sublethal exposure to pesticides on fruit flies, we will introduce pesticides to fruit flies at various concentrations and collect any surviving flies. This will show resistance to the used pesticide, which those individuals will then be used for the reproduction of future generations. These later generations will be examined for fecundity and potential birth abnormalities. Once the resistance is obtained and the former pesticide used has no immediate effect on the flies, flies will also be introduced to a different insecticide with different mode of actions to determine if the obtaining of one resistance increases their ability to express another. The implications of this study could be used to promote a better way to fight against resistance and elaborate on the disadvantages of the overuse of pesticides.
5:00 – 5:50pm Session Bloc Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
5:00-5:50pm / UC Espino Room A – Moderator: Dr. Joseph Velasco
Extended Time: 5:00pm-5:50pm
Team Presenters: Dawson Beard, Caitlyn Peña, & Jacob Spurlock
Moderator: Dr. Joseph Velasco
Title: “Gender Communication Literature Reviews“
Communication
ABSTRACT: This panel showcases the work of advanced Communication students and their research and critically analytic projects ranging from organizational communication to family communication.
Gender Communication Literature Reviews:
“Paper 1: Lit Review – Social Media Addiction
Paper 2: Gender Dynamics in Interpersonal Relationships
Paper 3: Breaking Down the Barriers: Using Relational Dialectics Theory to Better Understand How Male Victims of Sexual Violence Communicate Experiences and Behaviors
CANCELLED
5:00-5:15pm / UC Espino Room B – Room Moderator: Dr. Ryan Luna
Presenter: Nicole Dickan
Title: “Fine-scale Behavioral Patterns Of Newly Recolonizing Black Bears In West Texas”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Justin French
Communication
ABSTRACT: Black bears (Ursus americanus) began recolonizing West Texas in the late 1980s after being extirpated from the state in the 1950s. Despite their protected status, little is known about this population or the rate and extent of recolonization, and information on their behavioral patterns is severely lacking. To that end, we collared 20 bears with GPS collars programmed with 2-hour fix rates. Using hidden Markov models (HMMs) we segmented the movement paths of 19 bears (13 M, 6 F) into 4 behavioral states based on probability distributions of step lengths (SL), turning angles, residence times, and re-visitation rates. Two states reflected dispersive movement behaviors (x̅SL = 245.31 ± 7.03 (SE), 1054.81 ± 53.33) and two states reflected localized movement behaviors (x̅SL = 12.87 ± 0.63, 3.88 ± 0.14). The probabilities of remaining in both dispersive movement states were higher (77% ± 0.01, 71% ± 0.02) than remaining in either localized movement state (51% ± 0.03, 52% ± 0.02). We then examined the influence of environmental covariates on the transition probabilities between states to investigate which abiotic and biotic factors influence where bears make specific behavioral decisions. Understanding drivers behind bear behaviors can improve our ability to predict future behaviors in novel environments as they continue their recolonization and allow us to predict future conflict areas. Additionally, understanding habitat characteristics associated with these behavioral processes will be crucial for identifying key areas in need of protection for long-term population viability.
5:00-5:15pm / UC Espino Room C/D – Room Moderator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Presenter: Eliana Dykehouse
Title: “An Assessment of the Impact of Aoudad on Palatable Shrubs at the Fort Davis National Historic Site, TX”
Faculty Nominator: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez
Borderlands Research Institute
ABSTRACT: Herbivores influence plant communities by changing vegetation composition, diversity, and productivity. Moderate browsing has been shown to stimulate the growth of lateral buds along stems, thus increasing forage availability. Over-browsing, however, reduces foliar cover, affecting the plant’s ability to capture sunlight, photosynthesize, and reproduce. The rapid population growth and dispersal of aoudad (Ammotragus lervia) following their introduction in Texas during the 1950s has caused concern about the impact that overabundant exotic populations may have on native vegetation. This highlights the need to understand how aoudad utilize vegetation and how this resource use impacts the landscape. The Fort Davis National Historic Site lacks livestock grazing, and a large aoudad population frequents the area. These factors make it a suitable site to evaluate plant response to aoudad browsing pressure. To do so, we selected five species of palatable shrubs: fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica), netleaf hackberry (Celtis reticulata), honey mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa), littleleaf leadtree (Leucaena retusa), and gray oak (Quercus grisea). Four individuals from each species were chosen and monitored using remote cameras to determine ungulate species visitation frequency and abundance. We built exclosures around two individuals of each species during July 2023. In October 2023, near the end of the growing season, we measured unlignified growth on both unexclosed and exclosed plants. Surveys will be repeated in 2024. Results from the two sets of plants will be compared to quantify the growth difference in plants that experience browsing pressure from aoudad and those that do not.