COLLEGE OF SCIENCE
Abstracts
Research Day
001
2009
TEMPLATE ASSISTED SYNTHESIS OF NANOMATERIALS
Vincenzo LaSalvia, Petru S. Fodor, Ph.D.
Physics Department, Cleveland State University
A hybrid nanofabrication method (interference lithography + self assembly) was explored for the
fabrication of nanoparticles. To ensure the uniformity of the nanoparticles, a template assisted synthesis
was used in which the gold is electrodeposited in the pores of anodized aluminum membranes. The
spacing between the pores and their ordering is controlled in the first fabrication step of the template in
which laser lithography and metal deposition are used to produce aluminum films with controlled strain
profiles. The diameter of the pores produced after anodizing the aluminum film in acidic solution
determines the diameter of the gold particles, while their aspect ratio is controlled through the deposition
time.
002
TIME EVOLUTION OF ENTROPY IN RECTANGULAR CHANNELS
Petru S. Fodor, Ph.D.; Miron Kaufman, Ph.D.
Department of Physics, Cleveland State University
Patterning ridges on the surface of microchannels has been found to be a viable strategy to induce mixing
in straight channels, despite the characteristically small Reynolds numbers. In this work we evaluate the
time evolution of the Rényi entropy associated with the spatial distribution of tracers advected by an
incompressible fluid moving in several straight rectangular channels, such as the staggered herring bone
type mixer. The steady state flow fields are obtained by solving the Navier – Stokes and continuity
equations using a finite element analysis package. The Rényi entropy is then evaluated at different times
using the spatial distribution of the tracers. The entropy increases with time as lnt with a slope
approximately equal to unity. The slope quantifies the rate of distributive mixing. The rate of increase in
the entropy is found to be independent of the Renyi beta parameter. This is qualitatively different than the
distributive mixing in channels with moving walls where the rate of distributive mixing changes with the
beta parameter. We also study the dependence of the distributive entropy on the Reynolds number.
003
BIOFEEDBACK-ASSISTED STRESS MANAGEMENT TRAINING TO REVERSE
MYOCARDIAL REMODELING IN PATIENTS WITH END-STAGE HEART FAILURE
Dana L. Frank, B.S.1, Christine S. Moravec, Ph.D.1, 2, Michael G. McKee, Ph.D.3
1
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University;
2
Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic;
3
Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Cleveland Clinic
Heart failure is the leading cause of death in American men and women, and for years this disease was
believed to be irreversible. Pharmacological therapies were provided to control disease symptoms, but
cardiac transplantation was viewed as the only truly successful therapy. Recent studies, however, have
illustrated marked recovery in end-stage heart failure patients who have been haemodynamically
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1
supported by a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) prior to transplantation. Cardiac tissue removed from
these patients before and after LVAD support has shown a reversal of the maladaptive changes to both
muscular and cellular function as well as gene and protein expression, suggesting that the failing heart is
capable of recovery. This project will test the hypothesis that biofeedback-assisted stress management
(BFSM) training can cause a similar reversal of myocardial remodeling in end-stage heart failure patients.
The hypothesis will be tested using end-stage heart failure patients who are listed for heart transplantation
at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation over a two-year period. Patients will be divided into three groups: (1)
patients who receive BFSM training, (2) patients who do not receive BFSM training, and (3) patients who
do not receive BFSM training but require LVAD support while waiting for cardiac transplantation. These
three groups will be compared in order to achieve the following specific aims: 1) To measure the efficacy
of BFSM on cellular and molecular myocardial remodeling, 2) To measure the clinical efficacy of BFSM
on cardiac function, and 3) To assess the effects of BFSM on quality of life, perceived stress and coping
strategies.
004
ROLE OF TSP-CD36-HRGP PATHWAY IN TUMOR GROWTH AND METASTASIS
James Hale, B.A.1, 2, Maria Febbraio, Ph.D2 and Roy Silverstein, Ph.D2.
1
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University;
2
Cleveland Clinic
Cancer is typically thought of as an infrequent disease, in which solid tumors require a blood supply in
order to grow and metastasize. Interestingly, upon autopsy a large portion of elderly individuals display
numerous nonvascularized lesions throughout their bodies. Thus, the angiogenic switch in the
development of cancer presents an interesting therapeutic target. Previous work by our laboratory has
established an interaction between CD36, Histidine Rich Glycoprotein (HRGP) and Thrombospondin 1
(TSP-1) in the modulation of angiogenesis. Briefly, endothelial cell receptor CD36 interaction with
soluble or cell bound TSP-1 leads to the induction of an apoptotic signaling cascade in vascular
endothelial cells resulting in decreased proliferation, migration and tube formation, thereby inhibiting
angiogenesis. Presence of soluble HRGP leads to inhibition of the antiangiogenic potential of the CD36TSP-1 pathway through a decoy receptor function whereby TSP-1is bound and sequestered. Previous
studies have focused on this pathway with regards to wound healing. However, pathologically relevant
modulation of angiogenesis is also observed in tumors. We hypothesize that the TSP-CD36-HRGP
pathway regulates vascularization in the tumor microenvironment and therefore growth and
metastasis. Syngeneic Lewis Lung Carcinoma (LL2) and B16 Melanoma tumor volumes were assessed
10 and 17 days following subcutaneous injection of 0.5 x 106 cells into wild type (WT) and HRGP or
CD36 knock out (KO) C57Bl/6 mice. LL2, average tumor volume was greater in CD36 KO mice
compared to WT. Additionally, LL2 tumors from HRGP KO mice showed a trend toward smaller average
volume compared to WT. B16 tumors showed no differences in volume. Immunofluorescence and
hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining are ongoing, showing increased vascularity in CD36 KO vs. WT
and WT vs. HRGP KO mice. These preliminary data suggest TSP-CD36 interaction leads to inhibition of
angiogenesis with tumor line specific effects on growth and that HRGP may modulate this interaction.
005
J-L.E.A.P.S. VACCINES INITIATE MURINE TH1 RESPONSES BY ACTIVATING DENDRITIC
CELLS
Patricia R. Taylor, M.S. 1, Gary K. Koski, Ph.D. 2, Peter A. Cohen, M.D. 3, Daniel R. Zimmerman Ph.D.
4
, Ken S. Rosenthal Ph.D1
1
Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Universities College of Medicine and
Pharmacy;
2
Cleveland Clinic;
3
Mayo Clinic; 4Cel-Sci. Corp.
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2
The Ligand Epitope Antigen Presentation System (L.E.A.P.S.TM) converts a peptide containing a T cell
epitope as small as 8 amino acids into an immunogen and directs the nature of the subsequent response.
Tandem synthesis of the J peptide, (a peptide from the beta-2-microglobulin) with peptides of 8-32 amino
acids from HSV-1, HIV, or M. tuberculosis made them immunogenic and promoted Th1 immune
responses. Immunization of A/J mice with J-L.E.A.P.S.TM heteroconjugates containing an epitope from the
HSV-1 glycoprotein D (JgD) or an epitope from the HIV gag protein (JH) emulsified with Seppic ISA51
produced increased levels of IL-12p70, IL-12p40, and interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) on day 3, which
continued to increase on day 10 and day 24. Interestingly, levels of IL-10, TNF-alpha, and IL-6 did not
change. Neither the H nor the gD peptides elicited responses. The J peptide alone generated weak IL-12
production, but reduced IL-10 levels by greater than half. Bone marrow (BM) cells developed dendrites,
clustered and became CD86 and CD11c positive within 3 days of treatment with JgD or JH denoting the
maturation and activation of myeloid DCs. Treatment also promoted IL-12p70 production by CD8 positive
bone marrow cells. Pure cultures of immature myeloid DCs also responded to JgD treatment with the
production of IL-12p70 within 3 days. The J-L.E.A.P.S.TM vaccines appear to act on DC precursors in a
unique manner to promote their activation and maturation into IL-12p70 producing DCs (DC1) which then
can initiate antigen specific Th1 immune responses.
006
IL-12, BUT NOT IL-23, DEFICIENCY AMELIORATES VIRAL ENCEPHALITIS WITHOUT
AFFECTING VIRAL CONTROL
Parul Kapil1,2 MS, Roscoe Atkinson3 Ph.D., Chandran Ramakrishna1,5 Ph.D., Daniel J. Cua4 Ph.D.,
Cornelia C. Bergmann1 Ph.D., and Stephen A. Stohlman1 Ph.D.
Department of Neurosciences NC30, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic1,
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University2,
Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles,
California3
Shering-Plough Biopharma, 901 California Ave, Palo Alto, California4
The relative contribution of IL-12 and IL-23 to viral pathogenesis has not been extensively studied. IL12p40 mRNA rapidly increases following neurotropic coronavirus infection. Infection of mice defective in
both IL-12 and IL-23 (p40-/-), or IL-12 (p35-/-) and IL-23 (p19-/-) alone, revealed that the symptoms of
coronavirus induced encephalitis are regulated by IL-12. IL-17 producing cells never exceeded
background levels, supporting a redundant role of IL-23 in pathogenesis. Viral control, tropism, and
demyelination were all similar in p35-/-, p19-/- and wild type (Wt) mice. Reduced morbidity in infected IL12 deficient mice was also not associated with altered recruitment or composition of inflammatory cells.
However, IFN-γ levels and virus specific IFN-γ secreting CD4 and CD8 T cells were all reduced in the
CNS of infected p35-/- mice. Transcription of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6, but not TNF
were initially reduced in infected p35-/- mice, but increased to wild type levels during peak inflammation.
Furthermore, although TGF-β mRNA was not affected, IL-10 was increased in the CNS in the absence of
IL-12. These data suggest that IL-12 does not contribute to antiviral function within the CNS, but
enhances morbidity associated with viral encephalitis by increasing the ratio of IFN-γ to protective IL-10.
007
STRUCTURE, DYNAMICS, LOADING CAPACITY, AND VOLUME PHASE TANSITION OF
POLYMER NANOPARTICLES
K. A. Streletzky1, Ph.D., J. McKenna1, M.S., I. Benmerzouga2, B.S., P. Peiris2, M.S., I. Perera2, M.S.,
M. Bayachou2, Ph.D.
1
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University;
2
Department of Physics, Cleveland State University
Microgel nanoparticles were synthesized in aqueous solutions of neutral polymer hydroxypropylcellulose
(HPC) through self-association of amphiphilic HPC molecules and subsequent crosslinking. Dynamic
Light Scattering (DLS) was used to study the transport properties of HPC microgels below and above the
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volume phase transition. Highly non-exponential, multimodal microgel spectra were observed and
successfully analyzed by spectral time moment analysis. The structure and dynamics of microgels was
found to depend on polymer and salt concentration, crosslinking density, solution temperature, and the rate
of heating. HPC microgels undergo a reversible volume phase transition in which microgel volume
swells/deswells by as much as a factor of thirty. The study revealed that higher polymer concentration
results in smaller microgels with lower shrinking capacity. The effective cross-linking density that yields
relatively monodisperse microgels was determined. The angular dependence of scattering demonstrated
that microgels are largely spherical particles though sometimes two different particulate sizes are present.
Finally, flow-injection amperometry was used to evaluate the loading capacity of microgels. Preliminary
results show the moderate injection agent uptake that varies with temperature dependent size of particles.
008
MEASURING AND APPLYING THE DN/DC OF HPC POLYMER AND MICROGEL
SOLUTIONS
Krista G. Freeman, Kiril A. Streletzky
Department of Physics, Cleveland State University
The specific refractive index increment (dn/dc), the change in index of refraction with concentration, is
essential for static light scattering (SLS) experiments on polymer solutions. With a reliable value for
dn/dc, SLS yields basic polymer properties such as radius of gyration, molecular weight, and second virial
coefficient. This study focuses on determining the dn/dc values of hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC) polymer
and microgel solutions and practically applying these values in SLS. Using a differential refractometer,
HPC solutions were analyzed at a range of concentrations, molecular weights, wavelengths, temperatures
and filtration protocols. It was determined that dn/dc of HPC polymer is independent of temperature in
good solvents, inversely proportional to wavelength squared, and sensitive to polymer solutions filtration
protocol. HPC microgel testing produced dn/dc values one order of magnitude larger that those of HPC
polymer solutions and did not support the expected wavelength dependence. These results are to be tested
for reproducibility. These findings were analyzed and used to obtain a molecular weight and radius of
gyration for HPC polymer. Microgel molecular weight and radius of gyration are still to be measured.
009
APOPTOTIC THRESHOLD REGULATION BY THE MUSCLE REGULATORY
TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR MYOD
Terri J. Harford, B.S. and Crystal M. Weyman, Ph.D.
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, College of Science, Cleveland State
University
We have previously reported that the level of MyoD expression correlates with the level of apoptosis that
occurs in a subpopulation of skeletal myoblasts induced to differentiate by serum withdrawal. Herein we
document that MyoD expression dictates the apoptotic threshold in myoblasts and fibroblasts in response
to a variety of apoptotic stimuli. Specifically, re-expression of MyoD in skeletal myoblasts rendered
defective for both differentiation and apoptosis by the expression of oncogenic Ras restores their ability to
undergo both differentiation and apoptosis in response to serum withdrawal. Further, using a fibroblast cell
line expressing an estrogen receptor:MyoD fusion protein, we have determined that addition of estrogen
sensitizes these fibroblasts to apoptosis induced by serum withdrawal, or by treatment with etoposide or
thapsigargin. RNAi mediated silencing of MyoD in either 23A2 or C2C12 myoblasts renders these cells
resistant to apoptosis induced by serum withdrawal, or by treatment with etoposide or thapsigargin.
Finally, MyoD mediated regulation of the apoptotic response to these various stimuli correlates with the
level of induction of the pro-apoptotic Bcl2 family member PUMA.
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4
010
EFFECT OF CHOLESTEROL LEVELS IN LIPID MEMBRANES ON ENZYMATIC AND
REDOX ACTIVITY OF NITRIC OXIDE SYNTHASE
Noufissa Zanati , Jean Boutros Ph.D., John Moran M.A., Mekki Bayachou Ph.D.*
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
Cholesterol is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease that leads to myocardial infarction. The longterm goal of this investigation is to study the effects of increased cholesterol levels on the activity of
membrane-bound proteins and enzymes that are critical in the functioning of the cardiovascular system.
Specifically, in this project, the focus is on the enzyme nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which, in the
endothelium, plays an important role of maintaining blood pressure. We use both enzymatic activity and
electrochemical methods to assess the effect of increased cholesterol levels in phosphatidylcholine (PC)
films on the function and redox activity of this enzyme in the PC/cholesterol environment. Enzyme full
turnover measurements as a function of cholesterol content in the PC films allowed us to establish the
effect of cholesterol on NOS function. On the other hand, we used cyclic voltammetry to measure changes
in the transport properties of NOS oxygenase in the lipid/choleserol film. Redox and enzymatic activity of
NOS in the phospholipid film as a function of increased cholesterol will be discussed based on the kinetics
and thermodynamics of electron transfer in the membrane-like films. The effect on enzyme full turnover
will be discussed in the context of the hypothesized dynamic modulation of NOS function with increased
levels of cholesterol.
011
DEBYE SERIES EXPANSION FOR SCATTERING OF A SCALAR WAVE BY A SPHEROIDAL
PARTICLE
James A. Lock, Ph.D.
Physics Department, Cleveland State University
In order to calculate scattering of an incident scalar wave by a spheroidal particle, the incident, scattered,
and interior waves are decomposed into an infinite series of partial waves and azimuthal modes in
spheroidal coordinates. The scattered and interior amplitudes may in turn be expressed as an infinite series
of elementary reflections and transmissions of each partial wave at the spheroid surface. This is called the
Debye series expansion. The Debye series for spheroid scattering is derived, and it is found that each
partial wave of the incident beam is coupled to all scattered and interior partial waves.
012
CHARACTERIZATION OF GENE EXPRESSION CHANGES IN WHOLE BLOOD AFTER
BARIATRIC SURGERY AND WEIGHT LOSS IN T2DM SUBJECTS
Stela Berisha1, M.Sc., David Serre2, Ph.D., Philip Schauer2, M.D., Jonathan D. Smith2, Ph.D., Sangeeta
R. Kashyap2, Ph.D
1
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
2
Cleveland Clinic
Bariatric surgery results in dramatic weight loss, improvements in insulin sensitivity and marked
improvement in type 2 diabetes (T2DM). To examine the changes in whole blood gene expression profiles
following surgically induced weight loss in obese T2DM subjects, we evaluated 12 subjects (7M/5F;
age:52 ± 12 y; BMI: 47 ±11 kg/m2; fpg:157 ± 54 mg/dl). Blood was collected before and 6 months after
surgery into PaxGene tubes to stabilize RNA. Total RNA was extracted, amplified, and labeled using the
Ovation kit (NuGen), and then hybridized to Illumina whole genome gene-expression arrays that measured
the expression of ~ 48,000 transcripts. Transcript expression values were determined using BeadStudio
software. Data were analyzed using a paired t-test without regard for gender, and potential pathways were
identified using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis and DAVID gene ontology software. Post-surgery, BMI and
fpg were reduced to 37 ± 9 and 100 ± 24, respectively. A total of 225 differentially expressed genes were
identified (p < 0.01), of which 103 were up regulated and 122 were down regulated. GGT1 (gamma-
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glutamyltransferase 1), with the top ranked p-value (p=1.62E-5), and alpha defensin 1 were both down
regulated and confirmed prior serum protein findings. Of the genes with the top 20 p-values, 5 were
antimicrobial peptides: CAMP (cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide); alpha defensin 1; and LOC649292
(similar to Beta-defensin 131 precursor). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis identified fatty acid metabolism as
the top canonical pathway, represented by 6 of the 225 regulated genes. DAVID analysis revealed four
pertinent annotation clusters: acyltransferase activity; response to biotic stimulus; PPAR signaling
pathway; and fatty acid metabolism. Additional novel results that may be relevant include INSL3 (insulinlike 3), LCN2 (lipocalin 2.), OLR1 (oxidized low density lipoprotein receptor 1), and UCP3 (uncoupling
protein 3). Validation of our findings by RT-PCR and serum levels of secreted proteins is ongoing.
013
THE EFFECT OF PRIMING A THIN IDEAL ON THE SUBSEQUENT PERCEPTION OF
CONCEPTUALLY RELATED BODY-IMAGE WORDS
Teresa A. Markis, B.A. and Conor T. McLennan, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
There is a substantial amount of empirical evidence in support of the claim that the thin ideal portrayed by
the mass media leads to body image dissatisfaction. Furthermore, a disturbance in the perception of body
image is an essential feature of eating disorders. The Stroop task has been adapted to provide a measure of
selective processing for body image-related words in eating disordered individuals. Building upon this
previous work, this study is designed to examine the effect of priming the thin ideal on the subsequent
perception of body image-related words in participants without an eating disorder. In both Experiments 1
and 2, half of the participants will be primed by viewing slim female models, and half will view pictures
of gender-neutral shoes. In Experiment 1, all participants will complete a Stroop task for three categories
of stimuli: neutral (BOOKS), shoe (CLOGS), and body image words (THIGHS). It is hypothesized that
the group primed with the thin ideal will exhibit delayed color-naming times for the body image words
relative to the group primed with gender-neutral shoe ads. In Experiment 2, the eye-tracking paradigm will
be used to further investigate the hypothesized priming effect. In particular, this paradigm will provide
fine-grained information to examine how the predicted effect unfolds over time. Both priming groups will
complete an eye-tracking task for the three categories of stimuli. It is predicted that participants primed by
the thin ideal will spend more time fixating body image-related distractor words relative to the group
primed with gender-neutral shoe ads. The results of this study are intended to 1) further demonstrate the
adverse effects of exposure to thin-ideal media, 2) encourage future research using the priming paradigm
in participants without the disorder being investigated, and 3) stimulate additional eye-tracking
investigations of information-processing in eating disorders.
014
EXAMINING TALKER EFFECTS IN BILINGUAL LISTENERS
Maura L. Wilson, B.A.1, Conor T. McLennan, Ph.D.1, and Julio González, Ph.D.2
1
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University;
2
Universitat Juame I. Castellón, Spain
Previous studies have shown that variation in indexical properties of speech, such as changes in talkers,
affects the speed and accuracy with which listeners process spoken words. However, previous work also
suggests that such effects may be greater when processing is relatively slow. The purpose of the current
study is to examine the role that talker changes plays in bilingual listeners as a function of whether the
listeners are hearing words in their first (L1) or second (L2) language. More specifically, the present study,
conducted in Spanish, will allow us to determine whether talker changes affect adults who are bilingual
(Spanish and English) differently, depending on whether Spanish is their L1 (Spanish-English bilinguals)
or their L2 (English-Spanish bilinguals). Given that even highly proficient bilinguals typically process
their L2 more slowly than their L1, the results are expected to show that talker changes play a larger role
in English-Spanish bilinguals than in Spanish-English bilinguals. This study should provide a greater
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6
understanding of the role that talker variability plays in bilingual listeners’ online perception of spoken
language.
015
TERRITORIAL SITE TENACITY IN RED-BACKED SALAMANDERS (PLETHODON
CINEREUS) OF THE CUYAHOGA NATIONAL PARK
1
Cari-Ann M. Hickerson, PhD candidate, 2Carl D. Anthony, PhD, and 2Heidi Mathiott, undergraduate
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Science, Cleveland State University
2
Department of Biology, John Carroll University
1
Due to their very large population sizes, red-backed salamanders, Plethodon cinereus, are important
regulators of ecosystem processes such as the rates of leaf litter decomposition and nutrient cycling. One
factor that can limit population sizes of organisms is territorial behavior. Red-backed salamanders are
known to be territorial, but most of what we know comes from studies of populations from Virginia. In
those populations, individuals of P. cinereus are site tenacious from year to year and defend territories on
the forest floor. There are few field studies that address long term site tenacity in this species and little is
known about their behavior in Ohio. In this study we monitored a northeastern Ohio population over a four
year period to determine how long territory holders occupy their cover objects (territories). We report on
mean length of territorial residency, number of recaptures, and home range size in red-backed salamanders
in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
016
ACOUSTIC MEASURES OF THE VOICES OF OLDER SINGERS AND NON-SINGERS
Barbara L. Prakup, Ph.D.
Department of Health Sciences, Cleveland State University
The present study sought to investigate whether there were differences in the acoustic measures of
fundamental frequency (Fo), jitter, intensity and shimmer of older amateur singers and non-singers and
whether there were significant correlations between these acoustic measurements and listener judgments
of speaker age. Acoustic measurements were obtained on 60 speaker participants from a sustained vowel
production. Study participants included 30 male and female singers and 30 male and female non-singers
who were between the ages of 65 and 80. In addition, 10 speech language pathology graduate students
were recruited as listener participants to estimate the age of speaker participants from recorded vowel
sounds.
The results of this study partially supported previous findings regarding acoustic measures and listener age
judgments of elderly speakers. Speaker participants were perceived as significantly younger than their real
ages and male and female singers were perceived to be significantly younger than male and female nonsingers. Significant differences were found between male and female singers and non-singers with regard
to jitter and intensity, with singers displaying significantly less jitter and significantly greater intensity
than non-singers. Perceived age was found to be related to jitter in male singers and non-singers and
female singers. Perceived age was found to be related to intensity in female non-singers. No statistically
significant differences were found between singers and non-singers with regard to Fo or shimmer. No
significant correlations were found between perceived age and intensity in male singers, male non-singers
or female singers. Possible explanations for the differences between the present study results and results of
earlier studies are discussed. Possible directions for future research studies are presented.
017
SIGIRR, A NEGATIVE REGULATOR OF IL-1R-TLR SUPPRESSES TH17 EXPANSION AND
IL-17-DEPENDENT DISEASE
Muhammet F Gulen1,2, Zizhen Kang, PhD1, Katarzyna Bulek, PhD1, Cengiz Z Altuntas, PhD1, Mandy J
McGeachy, PhD3, Jeong-Su Do, PhD1, Booki Min, PhD 1, Vincent K Tuohy, PhD 1, Daniel J Cua, PhD3,
Xiaoxia Li, PhD 1
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1
Department of Immunology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
3
Schering-Plough Biopharma, Palo Alto, CA, USA
2
IL-1-mediated signaling in T cells is essential for TH17 differentiation and autoimmune disease. SIGIRR is
an important negative regulator for IL-1/TLR signaling. We show here that SIGIRR deficiency results in
high susceptibility to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) with increased infiltration of
inflammatory cells into the CNS. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of MOG35-55-specific SIGIRR-deficient
TH17 cells induced more severe EAE in SIGIRR-deficient recipient mice compared to wild-type TH17
cells, indicating increased autoantigen-specific TH17 cell activities in the absence of SIGIRR. While
SIGIRR expression was induced during TH17 differentiation, SIGIRR deficiency leads to TH17 cell
expansion and more induction of TH17 associated cytokines (IL-17, IL-17F, IL-21 and IL-22) and IL-23
receptor expression. Importantly, IL-1 stimulation results in increased TH17 cell expansion in
differentiated SIGIRR-deficient TH17 cells, suggesting that the impact of SIGIRR on TH17 effector
function is probably through its modulation on IL-1 signaling in differentiated TH17 cells. In conclusion,
this study demonstrates that SIGIRR exerts an important negative regulatory role in TH17 cell expansion
and IL-17-dependent autoimmune disease.
018
A SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL STUDY OF MACROINVERTEBRATE COMMUNITIES OF
FOUR STREAMS IN NORTHEAST OHIO
A. L. Yasick, M.S.1 and J. A. Wolin, Ph.D1
1
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Empirical data collected from macroinvertebrate communities, between watersheds experiencing known
differential anthropogenic effects are uncovering a hidden dynamic in stream pollution, suggesting
seasonality fluctuations. The purpose of this study is to address seasonal stream dynamics to develop
seasonal macroinvertebrate analysis techniques, and to examine the influences of past and present land use
adjacent to the stream to better establish macroinvertebrate diversity. Over a period of two years, four
streams, with well-understood human influence, in the Lake Erie drainage were analyzed for
macroinvertebrate community diversity and taxonomic richness. To evaluate habitat conditions we used
kick net sampling techniques and multivariate analysis of water nutrients and other in-stream abiotic
factors. Complete spatial analysis of the collecting sites was acquired through both current and historic
aerial photos using ERDAS to analyze land use surrounding the streams. Preliminary analyses indicated
the statistically significant influence of pH, ortho-phosphate, dissolved oxygen, percent canopy cover, and
riffle/run habitat on the distribution of marcroinvertebrate communities. As anticipated, these differences
are seasonally dynamic. Seasonal fluctuations can be used as a guide to better equip land managers and
planners with predictive models to quantify changes in biological characteristics within a stream, and to
develop indices for taxonomic diversity and composition that occur with the implementation of
remediation efforts.
019
STRUCTURAL BASIS FOR THE AUTOINHIBITION OF TALIN IN REGULATING INTEGRIN
ACTIVATION
Esen Goksoy1,3, Yan-Qing Ma1,2, Xiaoxia Wang1, Xiangming Kong1, Dhanuja Perera1, Edward F. Plow1,2,
and Jun Qin1, 3
1
Department of Molecular Cardiology, Cleveland Clinic
2
Joseph J. Jacobs Center for Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland
Clinic, 3Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Activation of heterodimeric ( / ) integrin transmembrane receptors by the cytoskeletal protein talin is
essential for many important cell adhesive responses including cell-extracellular matrix contact, cell
motility and survival. A key step in this process involves interaction of phosphotyrosine-binding (PTB)
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domain in the N-terminal head of talin (talin-H) with integrin membrane-proximal cytoplasmic tails ( MP-CTs). Compared to talin-H, intact talin exhibits low potency in inducing integrin activation. Using
TROSY NMR spectroscopy, we found that the large C-terminal rod domain of talin (talin-R) interacts
with talin-H and allosterically restrains talin in a closed conformation. Structural, mutational, and
biochemical analyses demonstrate that talin-R specifically masks a region in talin-PTB where integrin MP-CT binds and competes with it for binding to talin-PTB. The inhibitory interaction was disrupted by a
constitutively activating mutation (M319A) or by phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate – a known talin
activator. These data define a novel structural mechanism for talin autoinhibition and suggest how it
controls the dynamics of integrin activation and cell adhesion.
020
PROTECTIVE ROLE OF CERULOPLASMIN IN COLITIS.
Bakytzhan Bakhautdin1,2, Maria Febbraio3, Paul L. Fox1,2
Department of Cell Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic;
2
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
1
Ceruloplasmin (Cp) is an acute phase, plasma protein with multiple enzymatic activities consistent with
both pro- and anti-inflammatory functions. Our laboratory has recently reported the presence of Cp in
epithelial cells of the intestinal. To determine the potential role of Cp in intestinal inflammation, we
induced colitis in Cp-deficient mice by administration of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) ad libitum in the
drinking water. The Cp-null mice rapidly lost weight and all were moribund by day 14, while about 90%
of the wild-type (WT) mice survived at least 20 days. Higher amounts of TNF-a, and neutrophil (KC) and
macrophage (MCP-1) chemokines, were detected in colon culture supernatants in Cp-null mice compared
to WT controls. Cp-null mice also exhibited excessive colonic bleeding after 5 days, which correlated with
elevated white blood cells, neutrophils, and lymphocytes in the blood. Depletion of commensal microflora
by antibiotic treatment demonstrated that excessive inflammation in Cp-null animals is microbiotadependent. We have investigated the protective mechanism of Cp by injection of Cp into knockout mice.
Unexpectedly, mimicking Cp secretion by liver and restoring blood Cp did not lessen the severity of
inflammation. This finding was supported by the transplantation of Cp-null bone marrow (BM) into WT
controls and vice versa; 90% of WT animals with Cp-null BM became moribund by day 14, whereas most
of the KO mice with WT BM survived until day 20 of DSS administration. Our results suggest that Cp
derived from macrophages contributes to protection against colonic inflammation.
021
TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR-BETA-MEDIATED TRANSLATIONAL REGULATION
OF EMT INDUCER TRANSCRIPTS
Arindam Chaudhury, M.Sc.1,2, George S. Hussey, B.A.1,2, and Philip H Howe, Ph.D.1,2
1
Department of Cancer Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic.
2
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ)-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transdifferentiation (EMT) is
linked to cellular differentiation and migration during both physiological and pathological metastatic
processes. Here, using two different EMT models, we identify and elucidate a novel TGFβ-dependent
translational regulatory pathway mediated by a 33nt structural element in the 3’-UTR of two bonafide
EMT inducer transcripts, Disabled-2 (Dab2) and Interleukin like inducer of EMT (ILEI). TGFβ activates a
cascade in which protein kinase B/Akt is activated and subsequently phosphorylates heterogeneous
ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP E1), causing its release from the 33nt UTR element, culminating in
translational activation of both Dab2 and ILEI mRNAs. The autocrine response of cells to TGFβ-induced
Akt activation and subsequent translational activation of EMT inducer transcripts may represent a novel
mechanism through which the increased TGFβ expression in tumor cells contributes to cancer progression.
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022
MOLECULAR DYNAMICS SIMULATION OF THE HIGH DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN IN
SOLUTION
Valentin Gogonea, Ph.D.1,2,3, Stanley L. Hazen, M.D., Ph.D.2,3,4
1
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
2
Department of Cell Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic
3
Center for Cardiovascular Diagnostics and Prevention, Cleveland Clinic
4
Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic
The cardioprotective function of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is largely attributed to its ability to
facilitate reversed cholesterol transport (RCT). The nascent HDL particle, a mixture mainly of
apolipoprotein A1 (apoA1) and lipids (phospholipids and cholesterol), remained resistant to structural
determination by traditional high-resolution approaches such as X-ray crystallography and NMR. Using an
integrative multimodal approach permitting for the first time direct structural visualization of both protein
and lipid components individually within HDL, it was shown that apoA1 within HDL exists in a super
helical dynamic conformation rather than a ring. This new model of nascent HDL (the Double Super Helix
Model) was built using a combination of contrast variation (SANS), deuteration of apoA1, hydrogen
deuterium exchange tandem mass spectrometry (HD-MS/MS) and computer modeling. SANS experiments
show that the lipid phase of the nascent HDL particle is prolate ellipsoid, which suggests that phospholipid
and cholesterol adopt a micellar structure partially bounded by the hydrophobic surface of the protein
double helix. This poster presents a study of the thermodynamic stability of the nascent HDL Double
Super Helix Model carried out by performing 30 ns molecular dynamics simulation of HDL in solution.
The simulation results show that the proposed model is thermodynamically stable and has the amphipathic
apoA1 protein correctly oriented with the hydrophobic surface towards the acyl chains of the
phospholipids, and the hydrophilic surface (polar head groups of phospholipids) towards solvent. The
analysis of the simulation trajectory shows that the main structural characteristics of the proposed all-atom
model of nascent HDL, the super-helical conformation of the protein and the micellar packing of the lipid
phase, are preserved during simulation supporting the conclusion that the proposed model of nascent HDL
is thermodynamically stable.
023
TOP-DOWN VS. BOTTOM-UP: LEAF LITTER SUPPLY STRUCTURES PREDATORMEDIATED INTERACTIONS IN FOREST-FLOOR FOOD WEBS
B. Michael Walton, Ph.D.
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Predators play important roles in the regulation of species diversity, biotic interactions, and
energy/material cycling in many ecosystems. However, the detritus-based food web of the forest-floor
possesses multiple features predicted by standard theory in community ecology to attenuate the top-down
effects of predators, e.g., high species diversity, significant spatial and temporal variability, high degree of
omnivory, and long food chains. Rather, forest-floor food web dynamics are commonly thought to be
largely controlled by the bottom-up influence of resource supply, i.e., leaf-litter detritus.
However, recent studies have demonstrated that the abundant forest-floor predator, the red-backed
salamander, Plethodon cinereus, plays a critical role in the regulation of invertebrate species composition.
P. cinereus is a major predator on forest-floor mesofauna, and may reduce the densities of some important
microbi-detritivores by 30-60% in comparison to habitat patches lacking salamanders. The salamanders
can also exert significant positive indirect effects. Through consumption of intermediate predators or
superior competitors, P. cinereus enhances densities of some microbi-detritivore taxa.
Our on-going studies have revealed that salamander-mediated interactions show significant seasonal and
inter-annual variation, i.e., P. cinereus may be associated with the decline of an invertebrate taxon in one
year, but promote a significant increase in the same taxon in another year. I present data from a long-term
field experiment showing that leaf litter supply is the principal factor influencing this variation. These
results show an interaction between top-down (predator) and bottom-up (leaf litter) forces, but the shapes
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10
of these interactions are often non-linear and differ among invertebrate taxa. These results also have
implications for predicting the ecological effects of climate change, since climate change is expected to
decrease leaf litter supply in N American forests.
024 JOB APPLICANT PERCEPTIONS OF THREAT IN RELATION TO JOB ADVERTISEMENT
FRAMING
Johnny A. Sams, B.A., Sarah M. DiGioia, B.A., Ernest S. Park, Ph.D., Michael Horvath, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
The purpose of the study is to examine whether advertisements for potentially threatening jobs are seen as
more attractive when worded in group-based terms (we/our) compared to when using less inclusive terms
(you/your).
Participants will review a job advertisement for a teaching position in a prison facility. Participants will be
randomly assigned to conditions (we/our or you/your). Conditions will also be randomized for type of
security (maximum vs. minimum). Participants will answer a series of questions after reading the job
advertisement to rate their feelings about the position and the employer. It is hypothesized that potentially
threatening jobs described in group-based terms (we/our) will be rated as more attractive than when
worded in less inclusive terms (you/your). This research will contribute to existing psychological theories
on the relationship between threat and affiliation.
025
VITAMIN D RECEPTOR IS EXPRESSED IN HUMAN LIVERS AND INHIBITS CYP7A1 GENE
TRANSCRIPTION
Shuxin Han, M. A.; John Y. L. Chiang, Ph.D.
Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and
Pharmacy
Lithocholic acid (LCA) is a potent endogenous ligand of vitamin D receptor (VDR). It is thought that
VDR may induce intestinal CYP3A4 to detoxify bile acids and prevent cancer in the colon. It has been
reported that VDR is expressed in the rat but not mouse liver. The objective of this study is to identify
VDR in human hepatocytes and to test our hypothesis that VDR may inhibit transcription of the gene
encoding CYP7A1, the rate-limiting enzyme in bile acid synthesis in hepatocytes. Immunoblot and realtime PCR analyses have detected VDR protein and mRNA expression in HepG2 and human primary
hepatocytes. Confocal immunofluorescence has detected VDR in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. Upon
treatment with 1α, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (D3), VDR was redistributed to the nucleus and cell
membrane. D3 and LCA-acetate decreased human CYP7A1 mRNA expression in human hepatocytes.
Reporter assays showed that D3 and LCA-acetate decreased human CYP7A1 reporter activities. The region
conferring VDR inhibition was localized between +24 and -150 of the human CYP7A1 promoter.
VDR/RXRα bound to bile acid response element (BARE) -I and -II in the human CYP7A1 promoter. VDR
decreased HNF4α interaction with coactivators PGC-1α/GRIP-1 and trans-activation of CYP7A1.
Mammalian two-hybrid, co-immunoprecipitation and GST pull down assays showed that VDR interacted
with HNF4α. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay revealed that D3 induced VDR binding and decreased
HNF4α, and PGC-1α and GRIP-1 recruitment to CYP7A1 chromatin, and resulted in inhibiting CYP7A1
gene transcription. This study suggests that VDR may play a role in protecting liver cells against bile acid
toxicity and cholestatic liver injury.
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026
EVALUATING ANTHROPOGENIC EFFECTS, LANDSCAPE AND LAND-USE FACTORS IN
RELATION TO ANURAN POPULATIONS IN THE CUYAHOGA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
AND THE METROPARKS SERVING SUMMIT COUNTY
Kristen N. Hopson, B.S. and B. Michael Walton
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
The purpose of this study is to ascertain the effect anthropogenic factors present in the Cuyahoga Valley
National Park (CVNP) have on anuran populations there. I am testing the hypothesis that there is an
inverse relationship between anthropogenic impacts at a site, and anuran population abundance and
diversity. A second hypothesis is that larger sites will have larger anuran populations and greater species
diversity. To test this, species diversity will be compared to pond size. General distribution data were
gathered for forty-three sites including ponds, lakes, streams and vernal pools. These sites were surveyed
for anurans using automated call recorder boxes (“frogloggers”), roadside surveys and night hikes.
Surveys detected nine anuran species. At present, data on calling intensity and species diversity are being
analyzed for all years surveyed to assess relative abundance (population size). Surface area data for each
site are being collected in order to test our second hypothesis. Future goals will include the analysis of
landscape and land-use data for all 43 sites using the National Park Service’s GIS database in order to
determine whether these components have effects on anuran populations. In addition, factors such as
rainfall, percent canopy cover, percent vegetation, proximity to the nearest built structure, road, or
adjacent pond will be noted among others, in an effort to determine the magnitude of impact. The data
reported here can prove useful to park managers when making management decisions.
027
COMPARISON OF ICP34.5 FROM HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS TYPES 1 AND 2
Somik Chatterjee, M.S., Jason Wang, B.S., Kenneth S. Rosenthal, Ph.D.
Integrative Medical Sciences, NEOUCOM
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common human pathogen. HSV-1 usually causes diseases above the belt,
and HSV-2 usually below the belt. Both viral types can cause neonatal disease, but HSV-1 is more likely
to cause encephalitis in adults than HSV-2. Earlier work demonstrated that the ICP34.5 protein determines
the tissue culture phenotype and encephalitic disease ability of HSV-1. The ICP34.5 gene is expressed as a
late protein in the viral cycle. The ICP34.5 protein is not essential for virus replication, but is essential for
replication of the virus in neuronal cells. Little work has been done with the HSV-2 ICP34.5, which is
different from that of HSV-1. The central repeat sequence is absent for the HSV-2 ICP34.5 since it is
coded within an intron of the gene. The goal of my research is to determine the structural contributions of
the peptide regions of ICP34.5 to its functions by comparing the HSV type 1 and 2 variants. My studies
show that HSV-2 strain 333 resembles the attenuated non-neuroinvasive HSV-1 strain, KOS321 in that it
forms large plaques in tissue culture cells, and glycoprotein processing is efficient, as indicated for gD.
However, unlike that strain, plasmid expressed HSV-2 ICP34.5 was present in the cytoplasm. Cells
expressing the ICP34.5 from HSV-2 strain 333 (by transfection) promoted full and efficient viral
glycoprotein processing when infected with HSV-1 strain SP7, whereas cells infected with SP7 virus limit
HSV glycoprotein processing. Further studies need to be performed to improve our understanding of the
influence of ICP34.5 on the behavior and virulence of HSV-2.
028
KINETIC CONTROL OF CO-TRANSLATIONAL PROTEIN FOLDING BY TRANSLATIONAL
PAUSING
Sujata Jha1, Joerg Mittelstaet2, Marina V. Rodnina, Ph.D.2, Anton A. Komar, Ph.D1.
1
Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Disease and the Department of Biological, Geological and
Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
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12
2
Department of Physical Biochemistry Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry (Karl Friedrich
Bonhoeffer Institute) Goettingen Am Fassberg 11, D-37077 Germany.
Recent evidences have shown that protein folding in vivo is co-translational (i.e. occurring on the
ribosome during the process of elongation of the polypeptide chain). This implies that the process is
vectorial in nature with N-terminal translating and folding first and the C-terminal is folded later.
Therefore it is believed that the C-terminal part(s) of the synthesized polypeptide chain come in contact
with a different environment as they exit from the ribosomal tunnel. Rates of chain elongation during
translation of proteins are not uniform. The distribution of rare and frequent codons appears to be non
random and it was shown that there are regions on mRNA rich in rare codons which might lead to
transient ribosomal stalling and this was suggested to affect the kinetics of protein folding. The abundance
of tRNAs is known to be directly proportional to the frequency of codon usage characteristic for a given
organism, implying that a given frequent codon would be translated faster than an infrequent one. It was
hypothesized that such optimization of the local translation rates might be necessary to fine tune the
synthesis and folding of the nascent polypeptide chain growing on the ribosome, thus ensuring high
accuracy of the in vivo co-translational folding. We are currently testing this hypothesis using an approach
that would allow assessment of the conformation of the co-translational folding intermediates on the
ribosome, during the process of proteins synthesis depending on the translation pauses due to the presence
of rare codons.
029
NON-CANONICAL ROLE FOR THE TRAIL RECEPTOR DR5/FADD/CASPASE PATHWAY IN
THE REGULATION OF MYOD EXPRESSION AND SKELETAL MYOBLAST
DIFFERENTIATION
Jason A. Ross B.S. Margot Freer-Prokop PhD and Crystal M. Weyman PhD
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
We have previously shown that signaling through the DR5/FADD/Caspase pathway plays a role in the
apoptosis that occurs in a subset of skeletal myoblasts induced to differentiate. Herein we report that this
pathway also plays a role in differentiation. The expression of dnFADD or dnDR5 in C2C12 and 23A2
skeletal myoblasts inhibits differentiation by decreasing mRNA and protein expression of MyoD without
altering mRNA stability. Treatment with TSA allows a partial recovery of MyoD expression and
differentiation in dnDR5 -expressing myoblasts, suggesting that an increase in histone acetylation is
sufficient for MyoD expression in these cells. MyoD expression is transcriptionally regulated by a core
enhancer, which is responsible for control of MyoD expression during development, a proximal regulatory
region that displays only low levels of activity, and a distal regulatory region which includes a noncanonical serum response element that is required for differentiation. Contained in this cis-element is a
CArG box required for MyoD expression, to which two trans-acting factors, SRF and Mef-2, compete for
binding in proliferating and terminally differentiated myoblasts respectively. Furthermore, histone
acetylation at the MyoD DRR in dnDR5-expressing 23A2 cells is decreased. Here we confirm the
reduction in bound SRF at the CArG element but little change in bound Mef-2 upon onset of
differentiation in C2C12 myoblasts. We also demonstrate that while SRF recruitment in 23A2 and C2C12
myoblasts is similar, Mef-2 recruitment increases 3-fold when differentiation is induced in 23A2
myoblasts. Since these cell lines differ in the time course of MyoD protein expression, we infer that there
is a direct relationship between MyoD protein levels and SRF recruitment, and potentially an inverse
relationship between MyoD protein expression and Mef-2 recruitment. Experiments are underway to
compare the recruitment of SRF and Mef-2 in C2C12 and 23A2 myoblasts with their respective
corresponding derivatives expressing dnDR5.
030
LIPOSOME IMMOBILIZATION AND CHARACTERIZATION
Yong Ma, Hailong Zhang and Xue-Long Sun
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
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13
Surface-immobilized liposomes are of interest for various potential applications, such as sensor and
localized drug delivery, but their synthesis is challenging. Conventional liposome immobilization method
involves the initial synthesis of the key anchor lipid, followed by formulation of the liposome with all lipid
components. In this direct liposome formation method, some of the valuable anchor groups inevitably are
facing the enclosed aqueous compartment and thus become unavailable for their intended immobilization
use. Furthermore, anchor-lipid conjugates normally have limited solubility and stability in solvent, or are
incompatible with various stages of preparation. Herein, we report an efficient and chemical selective
liposome surface functionalization and immobilization method through Staudinger ligation. The liposome
immobilization was investigated by synthesizing biotinylated liposome, which is immobilize onto
streptavidin-coated glass slide, and by directly immobilizing onto azide functionalized glass slide through
Staudinger ligation, respectively. The surface-immobilized liposomes are analyzed with AFM and
fluorescent imaging techniques.
031
ACCELERATING SPONGIFORM NEURODEGENERATION: PUSHING THE LIMITS USING
NEURAL STEM CELL-BASED BRAIN CHIMERAS
Sandra M. Cardona, B.S.1,2, Ying Li, Ph.D.1, William P. Lynch, Ph.D.1,2
Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and
Pharmacy
2
School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University
1
Vacuolar changes in the mammalian CNS are most commonly associated with diseases of abnormal
protein accumulation. Such pathology is typically associated with prion diseases but is also notable in
retroviral, genetic and sporadic diseases as well. These diseases are generally characterized by extended
preclinical periods, presumably due to the extended time it takes for the build-up of abnormal or “toxic”
proteins within the brain. To explore this question more directly, we have been investigating a model of
spongiform neurodegeneration induced by neurovirulent murine retroviruses. To date these studies have
demonstrated that spongiosis is limited by 1) virus entry and accumulation within the brain, and 2) by the
developmental maturity of susceptible neural elements. Herein, we investigate a strategy to bypass these
limitations to assess the inherent capacity of the toxic viral element, Env, to cause spongiform
neurodegeneration. This was accomplished by transplanting engineered neural stem cells (NSCs) to
acutely saturate susceptible brain regions with neurovirulent Env, followed by a kinetic analysis of
spongiosis. The results indicate that spongiform changes could be accelerated up to within one week of
NSC transplant. Because this delay period cannot be accounted by the retrovirus life cycle alone, these
findings suggest that spongiform changes require Env-mediated events beyond viral entry, spread, or
protein expression. Such events could include formation of a pathogenic oligomer, production of a cellular
toxin, or accumulation of incremental Env-mediated cellular damage. Reconciling the delay between
NSC-mediated Env expression and vacuolation should provide critical clues regarding the cellular
mechanisms of neural spongiosis.
032
A POSSIBLE SUBSTRATE OF FREQUENCY INTEGRATION IN NUCLEI OF THE LATERAL
LEMNISCUS
Asuman Yavuzoglu, M.S., Jeffrey J. Wenstrup, Ph.D.
Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology
Kent State University, School of Biomedical Sciences
In intermediate and ventral nuclei of the lateral lemniscus (INLL and VNLL, respectively), some neurons
display an inhibitory spectral interaction in which responses to high best frequency (BF) sounds are
inhibited by sounds at much lower frequency. This is termed combination-sensitive inhibition; it is
especially prominent in INLL. Previous work suggests that this response property depends on lowfrequency tuned glycinergic inhibition. To identify sources of low-frequency glycinergic input to INLL,
we combined retrograde tracing with immunohistochemistry for glycine. We deposited retrograde tracer at
recording sites displaying 1) high-frequency BFs with combination-sensitive inhibition, or 2) low-
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14
frequency BFs (23-30 kHz). After transport time, the brain was fixed by perfusion and processed to mark
glycinergic cells. There are three main results. First, after inhibitory combination-sensitive deposits, most
retrogradely labeled cells were in ipsilateral medial nucleus of trapezoid body (MNTB) and contralateral
anteroventral cochlear nucleus (AV). We observed labeling in other nuclei, but in smaller numbers:
contralateral lateral division of posteroventral cochlear nucleus (PVl), ipsilateral lateral nucleus of
trapezoid body (LNTB) and other ipsilateral periolivary nuclei. Second, when tracer deposits were
combined with glycine immunohistochemistry, most double-labeled cells were observed in ipsilateral
MNTB, with a few in LNTB. Third, labeling in MNTB occurs in two regions, which appear to correspond
to high-and low-frequency representations. Moreover, there is an apparent overlap between the
combination-sensitive and low-frequency labeling in the lateral MNTB. These results suggest that MNTB
is the most likely source of low-frequency glycinergic input to high-BF, inhibitory combination-sensitive
INLL neurons. Supported by NIDCD grant RO1 DC-00937 (J J W).
033
HOW THE CONTEXT OF “ME” VS. “WE” IMPACTS PERCEPTIONS, AFFECT AND
JUDGEMENTS
Blake E. Hodges B.A., Ernest Park, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
When working in groups, do we think and feel differently than when working alone? This study tests the
hypothesis that working in groups makes individuals more approach-oriented. Approach-orientation is a
motivational mindset that activates when one feels efficacious and perceives positive outcomes/rewards
can be attained. People often assume groups are superior decision makers to individuals, so it’s plausible
approach motivation increases in groups. Approach motivation makes people perceptually more sensitive
to reward cues, increases positive affect, and heightens inclinations towards risks. Since groups make
important judgments and decisions, it’s critical to examine if and how social factors alter cognitive and
behavioral tendencies. To test the hypothesis, participants were led to believe they were working on a
series of tasks either in a group or alone. First, they performed a computer-based perceptual task where
they were briefly exposed to a sequence of screen shots, each containing a number of stimuli. After each
slide was presented, participants indicated as quickly as possible whether they saw a symbol associated
with rewards (green dollar sign) or not. After this task, participants completed an affect measure. Then,
they were given a list of common work-related behaviors and rated how important each was for job
success. Some items described behaviors people engage in to avoid punishment (achieve security).
Support for the hypothesis was found. Group participants saw more green dollar signs than individual
participants, suggesting heightened sensitivity to reward cues, more approach-related affect, and judged
the job behaviors related to maintaining safety/security as less important than individual participants. So
group members were more sensitive to rewards and less concerned with threats. Implications will be
further discussed.
034
THE CSU CAMPUS AS A LABORATORY IN URBAN ECOLOGY: DOES EQUILIBRIUM
BIOGEOGRPAHIC THEORY EXPLAIN INVERTEBRATE DIVERSITY IN URBAN GARDEN
PLOTS?
Kenneth Safranek, Craig Brown, Crystal Dolovacky, and B. Michael Walton,
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
This research project is one of a series of studies conducted by students in the spring 2009 Ecology
Laboratory course exploring ecological features, human-ecosystem interactions, and ecosystem services
on the campus of Cleveland State University.
Equilbrium biogeographic theory predicts that species diversity should increase with habitat size, based on
area-dependent rates of colonization and extinction. This influential theory has been used to understand
species-area relationships in biodiversity reserves and landscapes fragmented by human activity.
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15
We investigated species diversity-area relationships for invertebrate species in garden plots on the CSU
campus. Urban garden plots are a main component of visible “green space” in cities and can harbor a
diverse array of invertebrates. Further, since cities are hotspots for invasion by non-native species, we
tested the hypothesis that garden plot size influenced the diversity and abundance of non-native colonizers.
According to predictions of theory, species diversity and abundance of individuals should increase with
garden plot size. Our results for macroinvertebrates, most of which were non-natives, followed the
predicted pattern, but microinvertebrates showed the converse, i.e., diversity and abundance declined with
increasing plot size. We hypothesize that larger plots provide resources necessary for macroinvertebrates,
but resources are not sufficient in smaller plots. Further, we hypothesize that macroinvertebrates outcompete microinvertebrates on large plots, but micros can increase in small plots where the larger
competitors are few or absent. These contrasting patterns provide important insight into the mechanisms of
species invasions and, to our knowledge, have not been documented previously by other researchers.
035 THE CSU CAMPUS AS A LABORATORY IN URBAN ECOLOGY: ABUNDANCE AND
BIODIVERSITY OF LICHEN COMMUNITIES ON HONEY LOCUST TREES
Anton F. Schermaier, Anthony R. Rodgers, Gene C. Pachtler, and B. Michael Walton,
Department of Biological Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University.
This research project is one of a series of studies conducted by students in the spring 2009 Ecology
Laboratory course exploring ecological features, human-ecosystem interactions, and ecosystem services
on the campus of Cleveland State University.
Lichens are diverse group of symbiotic organisms consisting of fungi, green algae, and occasionally
photosynthesizing bacteria. Lichens can be found at all latitudes and elevations of the world where there is
not a permanent layer of water, ice, or snow, yet distinct species only grow on specific substrates that
provide the required moisture levels and chemical nutrients. Species of lichens even vary depending upon
tree species. We have therefore confined our study exclusively to honey locust trees.
We hypothesized that a number of significant environmental factors contribute to the abundance and
diversity of lichen communities on honey locust trees and may also correlate with basic principles of
island biogeography. The primary factors we considered were incident light intensity, distance of
communities from the ground, trunk surface area, and ground surface quality within the tree drip-line.
We divided our sample of twenty-two trees into two roughly equal populations which correspond to those
surrounded by grass and those not (metal, gravel, or concrete). We further hypothesized that the two
populations of trees will significantly differ not only in relative size, but also in lichen community
abundance and diversity.
036
NEW DYNAMIC LIGHT SCATTERING SPECTROSCOPY SYSTEM
Maxwell R. Orseno, Kiril A. Streletzky, Ph.D.
Department of Physics, Cleveland State University
Our goal is to construct a high resolution Light Scattering Spectroscopy Setup. When complete, this
system will allow experiments with Dynamic Light Scattering and Static Light Scattering experiments,
with polarized or depolarized light, two different laser wavelengths and a wide range of temperatures. The
first task was to get the laser operational. A water cooling system for the laser was developed and
installed. Laser bases for the argon laser as well as a helium-neon laser were designed and machined.
Another new addition is a system of mirrors that allows for a quick change from one laser to the other. The
argon laser itself has been tuned for optimal output. This system has been aligned and experiments have
been run on it. The data, after collected and analyzed, has been compared with the data on existing
Dynamic Light Scattering setup. The new results demonstrate that both polarized and depolarized
Dynamic Light Scattering experiments of high accuracy can be successfully performed using the new
Light Scattering Setup. Careful tests of Static Light Scattering on the new system are still needed to be
performed.
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037
THE CSU CAMPUS AS A LABORATORY IN URBAN ECOLOGY: IMPACTS OF
CONSTRUCTION AND DISTURBANCE EFFECTS ON SOIL/LITTER INVERTEBRATE
DENSITIES.
Amanda Kopec, Monica DiCorpo, C. Samuel Edwards, Jim Fenske, and B. Michael Walton
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
This research project is one of a series of studies conducted by students in the spring 2009 Ecology
Laboratory course exploring ecological features, human-ecosystem interactions, and ecosystem services
on the campus of Cleveland State University.
Cities are often entry points and hot spots for non-native, invasive species that can cause substantial
degradation of native ecosystems. Earthworms, for example, are not native to formerly glaciated areas like
NE Ohio, and their introduction has resulted in reduced diversity of native plants, soil fauna, and altered
nutrient cycling in native forests. One hypothesis for the entry of non-natives through cities is that typical
urban disturbances, e.g., construction, provide habitats suitable for aggressive invaders but unsuitable for
native species.
We tested this hypothesis by quantifying litter and soil invertebrate communities at construction sites on
the CSU campus. We compared invertebrate communities in plots showing evidence of construction to
plots at varying distances from the disturbed site.
038
SEASONAL VARIABILITY OF WETLAND FUNCTION IN THE CREATED URBAN
WETLANDS OF WEST CREEK RESERVATION, PARMA, OHIO
Ynes S. Arocho, B.S., Julie A. Wolin, Ph.D.
Biological, Geological and Environmental Science Department, Cleveland State University
At one time, United States federal policies encouraged the draining and filling of wetlands, resulting in the
loss of approximately half the wetlands in the United States. Since then, the importance of wetlands has
been recognized. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has implemented new policies that
discourage wetland loss. As a result, artificially created wetlands have been constructed with varying
degrees of success. This study investigates function in two created wetlands and the adjacent stream in
urbanized Parma, Ohio. These wetlands were built on reclaimed land that was once a landfill site and
created to improve water quality in the West Creek watershed. This area is now owned by Cleveland
MetroParks and is known as the West Creek Reservation. Six years have passed since they were created
yet relatively little is known about how well they are functioning. I hypothesize that seasonal variation will
affect function in these created wetlands. These wetlands may alternate from functioning as a source, sink
or transformer of incoming nutrients. In order to test my hypothesis, physical-chemical parameters will be
measured in the field and water samples will be analyzed in the laboratory for nitrogen, ammonia and
phosphorus. Water samples and measurements will be taken at eleven points throughout the wetlands
including their corresponding inflows and outflows. Data will be collected year-round in order to include
all seasons. Preliminary analyses conducted during the summer of 2008 indicate the wetlands were
reducing the amount of nutrients from inflows to outflows. A difference was also found between wetlands
with the lower wetland containing fewer nutrients than the upper wetland.
039
THE SINGLE SERVER QUEUE WITH TIME-VARYING ARRIVAL AND SERVICE RATES
Barbara H. Margolius, Ph.D.
Department of Mathematics, Cleveland State University
Much of the literature on queueing theory (the mathematics of standing in line) addresses queues with
constant transition rates, that is, the rate at which customers arrive to the system and the rate at which they
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17
are served is modeled as though it were constant regardless of time of day or season of year. More recent
work incorporates time-varying behavior, but how these results relate to classical results for queues with
constant parameters is still not well understood. In this poster, we juxtapose results for the time
homogeneous single server Poisson queue with exponential service with those for the time inhomogeneous
case.
040
N-TERMINAL END OF YEAST RIBOSOMAL PROTEIN S5: ROLE IN RIBOSOME FUNCTION
Arnab Ghosh1, Thomas Lumsden1, Amber A. Bentley1, William Beutler1, Oleksandr Galkin2, and Anton
A. Komar, Ph.D 1.
1
Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Disease, Department of Biological, Geological and
Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University.
2
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City,
KS.
Ribosomal protein (rp) S5 in eukaryotes belongs to the rpS7 super family of ribosomal proteins, with rpS7
being its homologue in E.coli. RpS5 forms part of the Exit (E)-site of 40S ribosomal subunit and the
mRNA exit channel and has been also shown to play an important role in ribosome biogenesis. In
Sacharomyces cerevisiae rpS5 is represented by a single gene copy and is essential for cell viability.
Alignment of rpS5/S7 from metazoans, yeast and E.coli shows that rpS5 contains conserved central and Cterminal regions, while it varies in its N-terminal end(s). Yeast rpS5 has the longest N-terminal region
thus, longer than E.coli rpS7 by 68 amino acids and human rpS5 by 21 amino acids. To determine the role
played by the N-terminal extension present in yeast, yeast strains harboring N-terminally truncated rpS5s
(lacking 13, 24, 30 and 46 amino acid residues from the N-terminal end) have been obtained and
characterized. These strains display defects in translation initiation, elongation and translational fidelity.
Truncations of more than 50 amino acids resulted in an inviable yeast strain. Alignment of the rpS5 from
different organisms revealed an extremely conserved sequence spanning residues 43 to 55. We
hypothesize that the region might be crucial for the control of translation in eukaryotes as it might be also
involved in control of pre-40S ribosome maturation. To this end, we are planning to make point mutations
in this region and further study the effects of these mutations on translation, ribosome function and
ribosome biogenesis. Gene shuffling will be used to introduce RPS5 mutant gene variants in the yeast
chromosome.
041
EVALUATING TREATMENT PREFERENCE AMONG EVIDENCE-BASED
PSYCHOTHERAPIES FOR PTSD
Lisa Stines Doane, Ph.D. 1, Dawn M. Johnson, Ph.D. 2, Brendan Finton, B.S. 1, Kathleen Hutchinson,
M.A. 2, & Keri Pinna, M.A. 3
1
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
2
Department of Psychology, University of Akron
3
Department of Psychology, Kent State University
Prolonged Exposure therapy (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) are two treatment packages
that have strong empirical support in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD; e.g. Foa et al.,
1999; Resick et al., 2002), yet little is known about patient perceptions of these treatments (Tarrier,
Liversidge, & Gregg, 2006; Zoellner, Feeny, Cochran, & Pruitt, 2003). In previous research, patients have
articulated a clear preference for talk therapy over medication (Zoellner et al., 2003), though only one
study to date has explored patient preferences among various available psychotherapies, which is perhaps
a more accurate proxy for the difficult decisions that face patients in real-life. The goals of the current
study are to investigate treatment preference by (1) assessing preferences for PE and CPT against a
credible control treatment (Present Centered Therapy; PCT); (2) assess preferences in both a nontreatment seeking sample and a clinical sample to determine if preference may differ based on treatmentseeking status; and (3) evaluate observationally whether receiving a treatment consistent with their
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18
preference impacts treatment outcome among those seeking treatment. Preliminary analyses from the nontreatment seeking sample suggest that a greater number of participants prefer PE (49%) than CPT (35%)
and that both of these treatments are preferred over the control treatment. Overall credibility ratings of
each of the three treatments suggest that both PE and CPT are deemed more credible than PCT. Predictors
of treatment preference will be examined and clinical implications will be discussed.
042
DEFINING THE STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE HIGH
DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN - LECITHIN CHOLESTEROL ACYLTRANSFERASE COMPLEX
Rati Lama, B.S.1, Zhiping Wu, Ph.D.2, Xavier Lee, Ph.D.2, Camelia Baleanu-Gogonea, Ph.D.1,2, Stanley
L. Hazen, MD, Ph.D.2,3
1
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University;
2
Department of Cell Biology, Cleveland Clinic;
3
Center for Cardiovascular Diagnostics and Prevention, Cleveland Clinic
High-density lipoprotein (HDL), the carrier of “good” cholesterol, participates in reverse cholesterol
transport (RCT) by carrying cholesterol from peripheral cells to the liver for excretion. HDL is also known
for its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. One of the factors that operates in plasma and
modifies the shape and lipid composition of HDL is lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT), an
enzyme that catalyses the esterification of cholesterol to cholesterol ester, leading to changes in HDL lipid
composition and particle size and shape. Our goal is to understand the remodeling process of HDL by
studying at the molecular level the interaction between HDL and LCAT. In order to better understand the
catalytic mechanism and structural requirements of LCAT-mediated HDL maturation we will use a 3-D
all-atom model of the HDL-LCAT complex built by using biophysical techniques such as small angle
neutron scattering and hydrogen-deuterium exchange tandem mass spectrometry (HD-MS/MS) together
with other experimental data (crosslinks, point mutations, etc.). Small angle scattering (SANS) provides a
low-resolution (10-25 Å) structure and is particularly useful in revealing the organization of a multicomponent system. To probe the structure of LCAT within the LCAT/nascent HDL complex we will
perform SANS experiments on the complex of nascent HDL with deuterated LCAT. In order to resolve
the LCAT-HDL complex by SANS we will produce LCAT-HDL complexes with either deuterated LCAT
or deuterated apoA1. The deuterated proteins are obtained by expressing LCAT and apoA1 in E. coli
grown in media containing D2O and deuterated nutrients. The use of deuterated LCAT and apoA1 will
allow us triangulate the location of each component of the LCAT-HDL complex, and by combining these
data with other biophysical techniques (e.g. HD-MS/MS, crosslinking, point mutations) we will be able to
identify specific interactions between LCAT and HDL that are critical for HDL remodeling and
maturation.
043
FROM THE LAB TO THE LIVING ROOM: ADAPTING THE SPACED-RETRIEVAL
TECHNIQUE FOR USE WITH INDIVIDUALS WITH DEMENTIA AND THEIR CARE
PARTNERS
Silvia Orsulic-Jeras2, MA, Katherine S., Judge1,2, PhD, Sarah Yarry3, MA
Psychology Department, Cleveland State University1,;
The Margaret Blenkner Research Institute of the Benjamin Rose Institute2;
Psychology Department, Case Western Reserve University3
Many problems experienced by persons with mild to moderate dementia (PWD) are related to difficulties
with short-term memory processing, especially for learning and remembering new information. This
difficulty is especially true when explicit or effortful cognitive processing is involved. However, PWD’s
ability to access and use implicit or effortless processing is spared far into the course of the illness. One
such technique that capitalizes on this remaining strength is the spaced retrieval (SR) technique. SR is a
technique for acquiring and retrieving target information that bypasses traditional mechanisms for learning
by relying on implicit processing. SR uses expanding intervals across time to facilitate acquisition and
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19
retrieval of target information (e.g., room number, names, phone number). Recent research has found
beneficial effects in using this technique with PWD for learning and remembering target information.
However, implementation of this technique has primarily been limited to researchers and professionals and
within lab-based settings.This poster will describe how the SR technique was modified to fit the needs of
three separate caregiving dyads living in the community. Dyads selected target information to use the SR
technique deemed important to them. Protocols for training dyads will be discussed in addition to how
target information was selected, as well as the steps taken to break down this lab-based technique to fit the
needs of each individual dyad. Barriers and lessons learned about the applicability of the SR technique
will be discussed based on cognitive status of the PWD, dyad relationship, and implemented practice
schedules.
044
CONCEPTUALIZATIONS OF NATIONAL CULTURE AND SAMPLE DEMOGRAPHICS IN
CROSS-NATIONAL COMPARISONS
Ryan Murcko, B.A.1, Brian F. Blake, Ph.D1, Michael Allen, Ph.D2, Aron Wilson, B.A.1, Kimberly A.
Neuendorf, Ph.D.3
1
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University;
2
Department of Marketing, University of Sydney;
3
School of Communication, Cleveland State University
When making etic cross-cultural or cross-national comparisons, several procedures are available for taking
into account respondent sample differences in demographics. This paper argues that the appropriateness of
a procedure is not solely a methodological issue, but rather a conceptual one hinging upon theoretical
assumptions (often implicit) of how a population’s demographic profile is embodied in the definition of
“culture” or “nation” employed. A study comparing the preferences of 486 US and 136 Australian online
shoppers for site features illustrates the use of three such procedures, and indicates how each procedure
flows from, and is constrained by, the theoretical definition of “nation” employed. In this data set observed
US-Australian differences in preference were found not to depend upon the procedure used. It was
suggested that the absence of difference was traceable to the very marginal relationship in this data set
between respondent demographics and preferences for site features. Implications for cross-cultural
research are discussed.
045
ALL IS NOT LOST: HELPING MEMORY IMPAIRED ELDERLY PARTICIPATE IN
RESEARCH STUDIES
Wendy J. Looman2, Katherine S. Judge1,2, & Kathleen M. Fox2
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University1
The Margaret Blenkner Research Institute of the Benjamin Rose Institute2
Recent research suggests that memory impaired elderly (MIE) can participate in and provide consistent
and accurate responses to survey questions. Collecting such information is important in understanding the
illness experience of MEIs while also highlighting potential areas amenable to interventions. This
increased interest in including MEIs in research surveys has resulted in strategies to reduce barriers to
participation. Among those strategies are simplifying questions and response categories to accommodate
cognitive limitations. However, limited research data exists in understanding which strategies (i.e., type of
question asked, number of response categories) are effective and what characteristics (i.e., level of
cognitive impairment) of MEIs are related to their ability to report consistent and accurate information.
This session presents data from structured interviews conducted with MEIs (n=100) about their illness
experience across both objective (i.e., cognitive status, functional status) and subjective (i.e., feelings of
embarrassment, isolation, and quality of life) measures. Results indicated that depending on the type of
question, ability of respondents to use the full range of responses versus dichotomous responses varied
from almost 90% (quality of life) to only 53% (physical strain). Reliability of MEI’s responses also varied
by type of question asked, ranging from .54 to .95. Compared to respondents who used the full range of
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20
responses, MEIs who used only dichotomous responses were older and had more cognitive impairment.
Overall, these results suggest that with the appropriate support, MEIs can participate in research surveys
and more importantly provide accurate and consistent information about their illness experience.
046
CONSUMERS’ ORIENTATIONS TOWARD FEATURES OF ONLINE SHOPPING SITES: VISA
Brian F. Blake, Ph.D1 , Rhiannon L. Hamilton, M.A.2, Kimberly A. Neuendorf, Ph.D3 , Ryan J. Murcko,
B.A.1
1
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University;
2
Ipsos-ASI;
3
School of Communication, Cleveland State University
A large, and growing, body of research in the behavioral, marketing and information sciences is asking
how and why consumers are drawn to particular online shopping sites. Such studies often require a wide
ranging set of site features. Such a feature set is not currently available. Introduced here is VISA,
“Variegated Inventory of Site Attributes,” a 55-feature set drawn from extant literature that is theoretically
interpretable, covers a wide range of major determinants of site appeal/usage, and is conceptualized at
various levels of abstraction. An online survey of a demographically diverse sample of 489 US Internet
shoppers revealed that 11 dimensions underlie consumer’s evaluations of the preferability of the 55
features. Further, the strength of these dimensions was found to be substantially stable across demographic
groups. Shopper demographics were related to only five dimensions and, when significant, were only
modestly related. Implications for the measurement of site feature preference are discussed.
047
REGULATION OF MYOD EXPRESSION BY ONCOGENIC RAS.
Kevin D. Feeback, B.S. and Crystal M. Weyman, Ph.D., Department of Biological, Geological and
Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University.
Etiology of cancer involves the mutation of genes that regulate differentiation and/or apoptosis. Specific
mutation of the ras gene results in the creation of the ras oncogene that can be detected in at least 30% of
all human tumors. Expression of the Ras oncogene results in both defective differentiation and defective
apoptosis in skeletal myoblasts. The molecular mechanism by which the Ras oncogene blocks these
critical cellular processes in this model system could yield important information relevant to many
systems. Expression of the Ras oncogene in skeletal myoblasts blocks the expression of the muscle
regulatory transcription factor MyoD. The mechanism responsible for this oncogenic Ras activity is not
known. We have discovered that oncogenic Ras regulates the level of MyoD expression at both the mRNA
and protein levels. Expression of oncogenic Ras results in a decreased level of MyoD mRNA suggesting
either regulation of transcription or regulation of mRNA stability. Expression of MyoD is transcriptionally
regulated by a non-canonical serum response element (SRE) that contains a CArG box that is bound by the
transcription factor SRF and is required for differentiation. ChIP analysis have determined that histone
acetylation and SRF recruitment are decreased in the MyoD promoter region and MyoD CArG box,
respectively, in myoblasts expressing oncogenic Ras when compared to parental controls. Ectopic
expression of MyoD mRNA driven by a heterologous promoter is not decreased in cells expressing
oncogenic Ras suggesting that MyoD mRNA stability is not regulated by the expression of oncogenic Ras.
The MyoD protein levels expressed from this mRNA are reduced suggesting regulation at either the level
of translation initiation or protein stability. Cyclohexamide treatment demonstrated that MyoD protein
stability is not influenced by the expression of oncogenic Ras. Future experiments are underway to assess
translation initiation of MyoD in the oncogenic expression cell lines.
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21
048
ROLE OF ZIP1 IN THE SYNAPTONEMAL COMPLEX IN MEIOSIS
Jasvinder Singh, M.S., Valentin Borner, Ph. D.
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Proper segregation of chromosomes during meiosis is central to formation of healthy egg and sperm.
Therefore, meiotic defects are the largest genetic cause of infertility, pregnancy loss, still births and severe
birth defects. Meiosis is a highly conserved mechanism in all eukaryotes from yeast to humans and
involves one round of DNA replication followed by two rounds of cell divisions. In meiosis I, homologous
chromosomes (homologs) are juxtaposed by structurally conserved, coiled coil transverse filament protein
(ZIP1 in S.cerevisiae & Sycp1 in Homo sapiens) in a structure called the synaptonemal complex (SC). At
the same time, double holliday junctions appear as a step in repair of double strand breaks (DSB’s). These
events aid their bipolar orientation. This bipolar orientation ensures their segregation to opposite spindle
poles. Role of the SC after the juxtaposition of homologs and in the formation of crossovers remains
elusive. SC connects the axes of homologous chromosomes while they are undergoing recombination, yet
its possible function in homolog segregation or DSB processing remains poorly understood. My central
hypothesis is that inter-homolog connections provided by Zip1 play a key role in mediating proper
segregation of homologs and the final step of crossover formation, specifically the resolution of double
holliday junctions. In this study, I propose to investigate role of central element of SC in chromosome
segregation and recombination. To achieve this I am – 1) Creating a model wherein Zip1 can be destroyed
by inducible proteolysis in context of a fully polymerized SC. 2) Validating and assigning role to
candidate genes with phenotype similar to Zip1 mutants. 3) I have tagged Zip1 to identify its binding
partners and possible mode of degradation. These models are being analyzed to provide useful insights
into role of SC in chromosome segregation, recombination and interference.
049
ISOTOPE HYDROLOGY AND STREAM NUTRIENT CHEMISTRY OF THE CUYAHOGA
RIVER IN NORTHEAST OHIO, USA
Fasong Yuan, Ph.D.
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
The Cuyahoga River delivers about 1000 million cubic meters of water annually into Lake Erie. This
accounts for a relatively small (<1%) fraction of water but over 5% of total phosphorus (TP) into the lake.
As part of efforts to provide a baseline assessment of nutrient dynamics in an impaired river watershed, we
investigated changes in δ18O, δD, major anions (Cl- and SO42-), and nutrient concentrations, such as
ammonia (NH4+), nitrate (NO3-), soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) and TP in the Cuyahoga River and its
major tributary- Tinkers Creek during a period from July 2007 to May 2008. The results of this
investigation indicate that there are significant changes in these isotopic and nutrient variables. For
example, δ18O varies from -12.8‰ to -6.7‰ and δD from -90‰ to -45‰. The large magnitude of isotopic
variations allows us to partition stream water with distinct water sources in the Cuyahoga River. More
importantly, there are stepwise increases in nutrient concentrations from the upper basin downward,
indicating that the majority of nutrient inputs are from point sources like effluents from municipal
wastewater treatment plants. This indication is in line with existing data from Ohio EPA and Northeast
Ohio Sewer District.
050
DIELECTRIC AND CALOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF OXYGEN OR NITROGEN/OXYGEN
CONTAINING DRUGS AND EXCIPIENTS: PART I
Vadim Kutsar, Irena Sobkiv, Brigid Patton, Yuriy Kutsar, M. P. Maheswaram, BSPS, and Alan Riga,
PhD
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
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22
Differential Scanning Calorimetry, DSC, and Dielectric Analysis, DEA (scanning and isothermal DEA),
differentiate drug melting, excimer formation and amorphous crystalline content. In order to establish a
DEA/DSC structure property relationship a series of oxygen and nitrogen containing drugs and excipients
were evaluated. The stability of the standard and model drugs is based on a comparison of their thermal
properties at widely varying experimental conditions. A stable crystalline drug has an obvious DSC
melting endotherm followed by a stable baseline. Unstable crystalline drugs which melt and immediately
endothermically degrade as viewed by a shifting melt endotherm. The drugs evaluated in this study
include vanillin, acetanilide, and acetophenitidine. A number of commercial excipients, for example,
polyethylene glycol, were evaluated by DSC/scanning and isothermal DEA. These novel thermal
analytical techniques distinguish amorphous and crystalline content as well as create electrical profiles that
reveal low levels of moisture, solvent and solid-solid transitions. The isothermal DEA, a new venture in
electrical evaluation, discovered multiple drugs with repeatable tan delta values (=loss factor/permittivity).
The resulting data suggests new paths for drug synthesis and characterization.
051
DO CHIPMUNKS USE SIMILAR ADAPTATIONS AS PRIMATES DURING QUADRUPEDAL
ARBOREAL LOCOMOTION?
Kathryn L. Rathers, B.A., Kelley M. Sufka, Andrew R. Lammers, Ph.D.
Department of Health Sciences, Cleveland State University
Many quadrupedal animals travel on tree branches, trunks, and twigs (arboreal substrates). This can be
advantageous for gathering food, escaping from predators, and obtaining shelter. Previous research shows
that many arboreal animals, including most primates, the woolly opossum, and the kinkajou adapt to
moving on arboreal surfaces in common ways. These animals support most of their body weight on their
hindlimbs (instead of forelimbs), they use diagonal-sequence footfall patterns, and they protract and retract
their limbs more than most mammals. To determine if these adaptations are also common among treedwelling Sciurid rodents (squirrels and their relatives), we trained four Siberian chipmunks (Tamias
sibiricus) to run at a consistent pace across a 1.8 m arboreal trackway that was 2 cm in diameter and
wrapped in 60-grit sandpaper. A forcepole 3.5 cm in length measuring the differences in substrate reaction
forces was positioned in the middle of the trackway. Limb excursion and footfall sequence patterns were
captured using high speed video cameras and analyzed with motion analysis software. As measured by
peak vertical force, the forelimbs support significantly more body weight than hindlimbs. As opposed to
the diagonal sequence gait of most primates, woolly opossums, and kinkajous, the chipmunks used
bounding gaits. Preliminary data indicate that protraction and retraction of the forelimb is greater than
most mammals, but somewhat less than forelimb protraction and retraction in primates (Larson et al.,
2001, J Zool Lond 255). Thus, chipmunks differ from primates in their locomotor biomechanics. One
likely reason why gait patterns between primates and chipmunks differ is because the chipmunks always
ran and never walked. The differences between chipmunk and primate locomotor biomechanics are likely
due to chipmunks spending more time on the ground than in trees.
052
BIOMECHANICS OF STABILITY DURING QUADRUPEDAL ARBOREAL LOCOMOTION IN
THE SIBERIAN CHIPMUNK
Andrew R. Lammers, Ph.D.
Department of Health Sciences, Cleveland State University
Arboreal locomotion (traveling on tree branches, trunks, twigs, and foliage) is very common among
animals. Because arboreal substrates vary considerably in diameter, orientation, texture, and compliance,
animals that spend even relatively small amounts of time in trees must be well-adapted to avoid slips and
falls. The biomechanics of maintaining stability, however, is poorly understood among arboreal animals. I
examined the movement patterns and the substrate reaction force and torque generated during locomotion
in the Siberian chipmunk (Tamias sibiricus). The chipmunk is well-adapted to move about in trees,
although it inhabits arboreal environments only when there is food available. The goal was to determine if
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23
the force and torque exerted against a branch during locomotion are balanced by the accelerations of the
center of mass. If these do not balance, then such a result suggests that internal movements, such as
accelerations of the limbs, tail, or abdominal organs, are contributing to the animals’ balance. Three
chipmunks were filmed with high-speed video cameras as they ran across a 2 cm diameter arboreal
trackway about 1.8 m long. The position and acceleration of the center of mass was estimated from the
video footage by digitizing markers on the chipmunks’ bodies. Substrate reaction force and torque were
measured by an instrumented portion of the trackway. As of this writing, the experiments have been run,
but data are still being extracted. I expect to find a close correspondence to center of mass acceleration and
the substrate reaction force and torque. Accelerations of the tail will most likely contribute the most to
addition, otherwise unexplained substrate reaction force and torque.
053
TRANSLATIONAL REGULATION OF THE PRO-APOPTOTIC BCL2 FAMILY MEMBER
PUMA
Atossa Shaltouki, Anton A. Komar and Crystal M. Weyman
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, College of Science, Cleveland State
University
We have previously reported that culture of 23A2 myoblasts in differentiation media (DM) induces an
increase in both the mRNA and protein levels of the pro-apoptotic Bcl2 family member PUMA and that
PUMA is critical for the apoptotic process that occurs in a subset of these myoblasts. Herein, we report a
novel translational regulation mechanism of PUMA. Specifically, we have determined that culturing of
myoblasts in DM with actinomyocin D is sufficient to block the increase in PUMA mRNA levels, but does
not prevent the increase in PUMA protein levels. Further, metabolic labeling of newly synthesized
proteins in myoblasts cultured in either growth media (GM) or DM supplemented with actinomycin D
followed by immunoprecipitation of PUMA has allowed us to conclude that this increase in PUMA
protein is a consequence of increased translation. Polyribosome analysis of PUMA mRNA indicated that
translational regulation most probably occurs at the initiation step. We have also found that the increase in
PUMA protein levels occurs under conditions of eIF2-alpha phosphorylation and subsequent global
decrease in total protein synthesis. Analysis of the 5’ UTR of PUMA mRNA by Mfold program predicts
stable secondary structures incompatible with efficient scanning. We have determined that impairment of
cap-dependent translation in vitro and in vivo did not affect the translation of PUMA mRNA. Finally, we
have generated data indicating that the increased translation of PUMA in DM is mediated by an internal
ribosome entry site (IRES). Using mono- and bi-cistronic reporters, we have identified a fragment of
PUMA mRNA spanning region upstream and downstream of the initiation AUG codon that allows for
cap-independent translation in vitro and in vivo in response to culture in DM. Thus, our data indicate that
increased expression of PUMA in skeletal myoblasts relies on IRES-meditated translation.
054
CHEMICAL SELECTIVE
CHARACTERIZATION
LIPOSOME
SURFACE
FUNCTIONALIZATION
AND
ITS
Hailong Zhang, M.S., Yong Ma, Ph.D., and Xue-Long Sun*
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
Liposome surface functionalization facilitates enormous potential application of liposomes such as
targeted drug and gene delivery. Several chemical modification methods, such as using amide or thiolmaleimide coupling as well as by imine or hydrazone linkage, have been developed. However, in many
cases there is a lack of specificity resulting in the uncontrolled formation of the number of covalent bonds
between liposome and biomolecules of interest. Most recently, copper (I)-catalyzed [3+2] cycloaddition,
namely “Click” chemistry, has been investigated as it can occur efficiently and selectively between azide
and alkyne in aqueous media. However, the key limitation of the Click chemistry is the use of Cu (I)
catalyst, which results in residual copper in the liposome and could be a potential concern for liposome
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24
application. The Staudinger ligation, in which an azide and triphosphine selectively react to form an
amide, has been used for chemical selective modification of recombinant protein and cells without
physiological harm. Herein, we report an efficient and chemical selective liposome surface
functionalization through Staudinger ligation. The effect of reaction conditions on the size and stability of
liposome were investigated by dynamic light scattering and the leakage of entrapped 5, 6carboxyfluorescein, respectively. Furthermore, the density and accessibility of grafted lactose residues on
the surface of liposome were evaluated.
055
THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF MICRORNAS IN PROSTATE CANCER
Jinani E. Slaibi, Kavleen Sikand, Girish C. Shukla Ph.D
Center For Gene Regulation In Health And Disease (GRiHD) Department of Biological, Geological and
Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common type of cancer found in American men, and the second leading
cause of cancer related illness and deaths in the United States. Recent epidemiological study shows that 1
in every 6 men over the age of 45 is at risk of PCa. Androgen receptor (AR) plays a causative role in the
development of hormonal-refractory PCa. Hormonal blockade therapy which inhibits the expression of
AR eventually fails and disease progresses to fatal androgen-refractory stage from androgen-dependent
stage. Therefore, novel molecular approaches which can target and block the expression of AR are
urgently required. We propose that microRNAs (miRNA) that function as negative gene regulators have
potential as PCa therapeutics. Using bioinformatics methods we have identified that human miRNA hsamiR-E has the potential to inhibit AR expression. In the present study we are carrying out experiments to
validate AR as a target of miR-E. Our preliminary data show that miR-E can suppress the expression of
AR in prostate cancer cells, Currently we are testing the effect of miR-E overexpression and resulting
AR suppression on the growth and proliferation of prostate cancer cells.
056
RETENTION INTERVAL AND FOURTH-GRADE CHILDREN’S ACCURACY FOR
REPORTING INTAKE FOR SCHOOL BREAKFAST AND SCHOOL LUNCH IN 24-HOUR
DIETARY RECALLS
Suzanne Domel Baxter1, Caroline H. Guinn, B.A.1, Julie A. Royer, MSPH1, James W. Hardin, Ph.D.2,
Albert F. Smith, Ph.D.3
1
Institute for Families in Society, University of South Carolina;
2
Center for Health Services and Policy Research, and Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics,
University of South Carolina;
3
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
We investigated the effect of retention interval (time between the to-be-reported meal and the interview)
on children’s accuracy for reporting school-meal intake. Each of 374 fourth-grade children (96% Black)
was observed eating two consecutive school meals (breakfast, lunch) and interviewed to obtain a 24-hour
dietary recall using one of six conditions from crossing two target periods (prior 24 hours [24]; previous
day [PD]) with three interview times (morning [M]; afternoon [A]; evening [E]). Each condition had 62 or
64 children (half boys). For the conditions, retention interval lengths in hours were (shortest to longest),
for breakfast, 24M=1, 24A=5, 24E=11, PMD=25, PDA=29, and PDE=35; and for lunch, 24A=1, 24E=7,
24M=21, PDM=21, PDA=25, and PDE=31. Rates for omissions (items observed but unreported) and
intrusions (items reported but unobserved) were analyzed using analysis of variance (with rates of 0%
representing perfect performance). As the retention interval increased, breakfast omission rates increased
(24M=27%, 24A=48%, 24E=46%, PDM=64%, PDA=65%, PDE=66%), breakfast intrusion rates
increased (24M=21%, 24A=29%, 24E=38%, PDM=49%, PDA=62%, PDE=63%), lunch omission rates
increased (24A=39%, 24E=38%, 24M=71%, PDM=56%, PDA=71%, PDE=69%) and lunch intrusion
rates increased (24A=16%, 24E=22%, 24M=49%, PDM=35%, PDA=54%, PDE=61%) [4 trend
Ps≤0.001]. Thus, accuracy was best when retention intervals were shortest – 24M for breakfast and 24A
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25
for lunch. Although the retention interval was identical for lunch for 24M and PDM (with lunch eaten on
the day before the interview day), rates were better for lunch for PDM than 24M (2 contrast Ps≤0.011).
Results illuminate the importance of retention interval for children’s dietary recall accuracy. Funding:
R01HL74358.
057
DETERMINATION OF THE 60S RIBOSOME BINDING SITE OF RIBOSOMAL PROTEIN
L13a
Priyanka Das, M.S., Sujan Chaudhuri, Ph.D., Keyur Vyas, M.S., Purvi Kapasi,M.S., Anton A. Komar,
Ph.D., and Barsanjit Mazumder,Ph.D*.
Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Science, Cleveland State University
Our work has identified IFN-γ dependent release of ribosomal protein L13a from 60S ribosome and its
essential role in transcript specific translational silencing of Ceruloplasmin (Cp) mRNA. In order to gain
significant insight into the mechanism of release, it is necessary to determine the domain of L13a
responsible for binding to 60S ribosome. To this end we have recently established an assay for ribosome
incorporation that relies on the detection of ectopically expressed tagged L13a in the ribosome and
polyribosome fractions of the transfected cells. Using this system we have initiated studies with a goal to
identify ribosome-incorporation defective mutants of L13a. As a starting point we have performed
structural homology modeling of human L13a based on the crystal structure of prokaryotic L13 (the
homolog of mammalian L13a). This modeling study has identified a loop in L13a, harboring Arg at
position 68 at the tip of the loop. The prokaryotic counterpart of this loop in L13, harbors a His at the tip
that shows direct interaction with 50S rRNA. In addition we have also performed in silico analysis of L13a
using RNABindR (http://bindr.gdcb.iastate.edu/RNABindR) that uses a distance cutoff to predict the
amino acids most likely to contact RNA in solved complex structure from protein data bank. This analysis
also identified several candidates’ amino acid residues and motif that potentially bind to rRNA. In
consistence with this homology modeling and in silico prediction, recently we have experimentally
verified Arg 68. Mutation of this Arg to Ala results ribosome incorporation defective L13a. At present we
are testing the role of other predicted amino acid residues using ribosome incorporation assay. We will
confirm the incorporation defective mutants by testing the direct binding between purified 60S ribosome
and recombinant His tagged L13a using sucrose gradient analysis.
058
TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI RAP1 IS ESSENTIAL FOR SILENCING VSG GENES IN
PROCYCLIC FORM CELLS
Unnati M. Pandya, M.S. and Bibo Li, Ph.D.*
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, College of Science, Cleveland State
University
*Corresponding Author
Trypanosoma brucei is a protozoan parasite that causes African trypanosomiasis. In mammalian host,
bloodstream form T. brucei cells regularly switch its surface antigen, Variant Surface Glycoprotein (VSG),
to evade host immune attack. VSGs are expressed from ~ 20 nearly identical VSG expression sites (ESs)
located at subtelomeric regions, where VSG is the last gene in any ES and immediately adjacent to the
telomere. To maximize VSG switching efficiency, only one ES promoter (40–60 kb upstream of VSG) is
fully active, resulting in a single VSG being expressed at any time. Interestingly, ‘silent’ ES promoters are
weakly active, but transcription elongation is quickly attenuated to avoid transcription of downstream
VSGs. We have identified tbRAP1 as an intrinsic component of the telomere complex and shown that
depletion of tbRAP1 led to derepression of all VSGs in ‘silent’ ESs in the bloodstream form cells.
Presumably, removal of tbRAP1 allowed full transcription elongation from ‘silent’ ES promoters, which
result in multiple VSGs being expressed. In contrast, in the mid-gut of its insect vector, procyclic form T.
brucei cells express procyclin instead of VSG, and all ES promoters appear to be completely silent. We
have recently established inducible tbRAP1 RNAi lines in procyclic form T. brucei cells. Interestingly,
depletion of tbRAP1 again led to derepression of multiple ES-linked VSGs. We are exploring the
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possibility that at the procyclic stage removal of tbRAP1 may allow moderate activation of ES promoters.
Possible roles of tbRAP1 in telomere length and telomere G-overhang structure maintenance are also
being investigated.
059
MEDICAID MANAGED CARE: LOW REIMBURSEMENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE BURDEN
AFFECT PHYSICIAN PARTICIPATION
Ruth A. Madden, R.N., M.P.H., Anthony J. Costa, M.D., Gary McCord, M.A., Susan Labuda Schrop,
M.S.
Department of Family Medicine, Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy
(NEOUCOM)
Background: The percentage of physicians that derive no revenue from Medicaid is on the rise, as is the
percentage of physicians accepting no new Medicaid patients. The Center for Studying Health System
Change (2006) reported that the percentage of physicians accepting no new Medicaid patients (21%) is six
times higher than for Medicare patients and five times higher than for the privately insured.
Objective: To survey family physicians about payment reimbursements for services rendered to Medicaid
Managed Care (MMC) patients and examine how inadequate reimbursements affect their ability to care
for this population of patients. The specific aims were to determine: 1) the percent of Northeastern Ohio
family medicine, community-based physicians who accept MMC patients, 2) the reasons why they do not
accept MMC patients, and 3) the level of reimbursement it would take for them to accept MMC patients.
Methods: A convenience sample of family physicians with faculty rank at NEOUCOM were mailed a ten
question survey. Two mailings were conducted. The response rate was 48%.
Results: Fifty-three percent of respondents currently have MMC patients in their practice; 47.5% of these
physicians are not accepting new MMC patients. Of the physicians who currently treat MMC patients,
40% are considering ending their affiliation with MMC and 11% intend to stop participating in MMC.
Low reimbursement and administrative burden are the primary reasons cited for the decision to end their
affiliation with MMC.
Discussion: Inadequate physician reimbursement and administrative burden in MMC are causing many
providers to close their practices to this patient population, negatively affecting access to care. Increasing
provider reimbursement to family physicians caring for the MMC population would be the cost effective
choice for providing beneficiaries access to a patient centered medical home and would likely reduce the
number of high cost emergency department visits.
060 PLASTICITY OF SPLICE SITES OF A MICRORNA CODING INTRON
Neha Aggarwal (MS), Kavleen Sikand (Ph.D), Girish C. Shukla (Ph.D)
Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences (BGES), Cleveland State University
A large number of miRNA genes are encoded in U2-dependent spliceosomal introns of mammalian genes.
Current evidence suggests that the processing of intronic miRNA does not appear to affect the splicing of
introns. Since, intronic miRNAs are involved in essential cellular processes, we surmised if splice sites are
flexible to support their productive processing. Using in vivo and in vitro methods, we examined the
splicing of α-MHC and processing of miR-208 by mutational analysis. The 5’ splice site mutations of
intron containing miRNA does not affect primary and precursor miRNA processing. Complete elimination
of 5’ splice site activated a cryptic splicing to an upstream identical splice site without compromising
miRNA processing. Interestingly, conversion of the U2-type splice site to consensus U12-type splice site
did not affect in vivo splicing of the intron, suggesting the conversion of the intron to U12-type, albeit
without a consensus U12-type branch site recognition sequence. To test if this intron is spliced by minor
spliceosome, we mutated CC5/6GG of the splice site which is essential for U12-dependent splicing as the
sequence is recognized by U11 and U6atac snRNAs sequentially. Surprisingly, these mutations did not
completely abolish the splicing from WT splice junction and did not activate any cryptic splicing.
Coexpression of appropriate U6atac and U11 suppressors results support the notion that the intron is
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27
spliced by a combination of major and minor spliceosomal snRNAs. Our results suggest that U6atac
snRNA, but not U11 and U12 may be involved in the splicing of this putative “hybrid intron.”
Experiments are being pursued to determine the plasticity of splice sites of introns containing miRNA
genes.
061
AGONIST INDUCED CHANGES IN THE UBIQUITINATION OF PLATELET PROTEINS AND
ITS POTENTIAL ROLE IN PLATELET FUNCTION
Nilaksh Gupta.1, 2, Thomas McIntyre1 PhD.
1
Department of Cell Biology, Lerner Research Institute/Cleveland Clinic
2
Department of Regulatory Biology, Cleveland State University.
Introduction: Ubiquitination is the second most common post-translational modification after protein
phosphorylation and is tightly regulated. The major role of ubiquitination is targeting cellular proteins
(poly-ubiquitinated at Lysine 48) for degradation via a large multi-catalytic protein complex called the
proteosome, but mono-ubiquitination as well as poly-ubiquitination (other than Lysine 48) is involved in
protein/vesicle trafficking as well as cell signaling. Platelets are small, short-lived, anucleated cells
involved in hemostasis. Persistent or aberrant platelet activation is associated with acute arterial
thrombosis, vasculogenesis and tumor growth. Platelets upon activation undergo rapid aggregation, shape
change and degranulation. Hypothesis: (1) Since platelets are short lived and have functional proteasome
machinery we hypothesized that the proteosome dependent degradation of platelet proteins might play a
role in platelet function. (2) Since mono-ubiquitination and poly-ubiquitination (other than lysine 48)
regulate protein/vesicle trafficking and cell signaling, we hypothesized that the inhibitor of ubiquitination
(PYR41) may block/reduce degranulation and aggregation. Methods: To identify ubiquitinated proteins,
washed platelets were pre-incubated with MG132 (proteosomal inhibitor) before thrombin, ADP or LPS
treatment. For assessing platelet function, exocytosis of adhesive protein P-selectin from intracellular
granules to cell surface, conformational change in GPIIb/IIIa from low affinity to high affinity fibrinogen
binding state and aggregation were used as markers. Results: Our preliminary data showed that the
platelets have many ubiquitinated proteins and this is stimulation dependent. Compound PYR41 decreased
P-selectin exocytosis, GPIIb/IIIa conformational change, fibrinogen binding and platelet aggregation.
Conclusion: Treatment with compound PYR41 significantly reduced platelet function. Therefore,
blocking ubiquitination in platelets may be an important mechanism for controlling thrombosis and
hemostasis.
062
APPLYING WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE SELF TO BETTER UNDERSTAND GROUPS
Joohwan Lee, B.A.; Ernest S. Park, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
Attitudes become more extreme when people are in groups with like-minded others. This group
polarization effect helps explain the existence of “extremist” groups, and the occurrence of dramatic
behaviors that emerge primarily in collectives (e.g., violent mobs). Because groups make important
decisions, it’s critical to know if/how members influence one another’s attitudes, particularly since
attitudes can guide decisions and behaviors. Our study offers and tests a novel explanation for group
polarization. The theoretical foundation of this explanation, called optimal-distinctiveness theory, is
grounded in the psychology of the self. This framework states people struggle to balance two conflicting
needs, the need for belonging/acceptance and need for distinctiveness. People strive to feel unique and
different from others, but feeling too distinct can make one feel isolated, which threatens perceptions of
acceptance and inclusion. In this situation, people ingratiate and conform to others to gain social approval.
When achieving an optimal balance between inclusion and distinctiveness, the individual is satisfied.
Conversely, when feeling too similar to others distinctiveness is threatened, so one acts to set him/herself
apart until needs are balanced. We suggest these self-dynamics might explain group polarization. In
groups with like-minded others, members experience validation and acceptance upon discovering
similarities in attitudes. While comforting, this heightens distinctiveness needs. To create distinction but
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28
maintain approval, group members might still agree with others, but endorse more extreme attitudes to set
themselves apart. If most do this, polarization will occur and groups and their members will become more
extreme. This study tests if optimal distinctiveness plays a role in polarization as hypothesized, by
manipulating group composition so some groups are more homogenous than others (same sex vs. mixedsex groups). We predict polarization will be strongest in same-sex groups, where distinctiveness needs are
stronger. Data are being collected, and results and implications will be presented.
063
FUNCTIONAL GLYCO-CAPTURING MACROLIGAND FOR AFFINITY GLCYOMICS AND
GLYCOPROTEOMICS APPLICATION
Srinivas Chalagalla, B.S, Xue-Long Sun, Ph.D.
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
Functional investigation of biomolecules typically starts by reducing the sample complexity through
multidimensional separation methods based on the unique characteristics of the biomolecules followed by
identification. We report a chain-end functionalized boronic acid-containing polymer (boropolymer) as
oriented multivalent glyco-affinity capture ligands for efficient purification and identification of
carbohydrates and carbohydrate-containing proteins. Briefly, a biotin chain-end boropolymer was
synthesized via a biotin derivatived arylamine initiated cyanoxyl-mediated free-radical polymerization in
one-pot fashion. The glyco-capture followed by direct MALDI mass spectrometry identification of the
captured carbohydrate was demonstrated by using magnetic bead founctionalized with the biotin
boropolymer. In addition, oriented and covalent immobilization of an OCN chain-end functionalized
boropolymers onto amino functionalized surfaces such as magnetic beads, mica, and glass slide was
investigated and confirmed by AFM and fluorescent imaging techniques.
064
FEATURES, FUNCTIONS, AND FANFARE: A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING THE
APPEAL OF A MUSIC WEBSITE
Anne D. Sito, B.A. 1, Evan Lieberman, Ph.D 2, Brian F. Blake, Ph.D 1, Kimberly A. Neuendorf, Ph.D 2.
1
Deparment of Psychology, Cleveland State University;
2
School of Communication, Cleveland State University.
The Music business is in the greatest period of upheaval in its history. Because of an oversaturated market,
eroding music sales, increased costs of launching new songs and albums, has prompted online music
distribution. Some have recently called this a “revolution”. In the rapidly evolving world of computermediated communication, a key issue is the nature of the interfaces among the needs of the individuals
using the Internet, the goals of the entities posting a site, and the properties presented by that site. This
report proposed a conceptual framework borrowing from the Arcade model of cultural theorist Walter
Benjamin. The framework proposes five Artist Goals and five User Needs linked via five Operational
Domains. The five Artist Goals are: (1) Sales, (2) establish Relationships, (3) Entertain, (4) Project Image,
(5) Be Cutting Edge. The five User Needs include: (1) Seek/obtain Goods or Services; (2) Establish
Relationships; (3) Enjoyment/Hedonic Consumption; (4) Self-Identity(persona); and (5) Stay Current. The
Operational Domains include: (1) Commerce, (2) Networking, (3) Entertainment, (4) Imaging, and (5)
Information/News. Each Domain has particular Functions to be performed, and each Function is
accomplished by Macro – and - Micro Features. The Artists and Users seek to fulfill their needs via a
specific Operational Domain. Results of 18 focus groups of college student subjects illustrate the
framework. Also gleaned from the focus groups were are a set of features that perform functions vital to
the success of the Commerce Operational Domain.. These include: (1) Graphic Load; (2) Site Stability;
and (3) Presence. For the purposes of the current study, participants we asked to explore MySpace Music
Artist or Band sites. Implications are drawn for investigating online music sites.
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065
INDUCTION OF METALLOTHIONEIN II TO HEAVY METAL IONS IN HELIANTHUS
ANNUUS.
Chamari Walliwalagedara1, Katie Baxter1, Harry van Keulen2, Teresa Cutright3, and Robert Wei1.
Dept. of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
2
Dept. of BGES, Cleveland State University,
3
Dept. of Civil Engineering, University of Akron
1
Metallothionein (MT) gene was induced in Helianthus annuus (Dwarf Sunflower) when exposed to nickel
(Ni) or cadmium (Cd). Expression of the gene translation products however could not be easily seen as a
phenotype, although the expression of MT genes was detected primarily through the examination of
elevated levels of MT RNA. Difficulty of detection of MTs could be because the MTs in plants consist of
high number of cysteine molecules and low aromatic amino acids. Metallothioneins are small molecular
weight proteins with high number of cysteine molecules, therefore their primary role is believed to play an
important role in metal homeostasis and give tolerance to, or detoxifies toxic metals (e.g., Cd, Hg, Cr, and
Pb). The exact function of MTs in plants however is still unclear. In order to better understand the role of
MTs in plants, we investigated the metal binding properties MT ll with respect to its affinity, capacity, and
selectivity. Sufficient quantities of MT were obtained by cloning the mt gene in fusion with the
glutathione-S-transferase (GST) gene of the expression vector pGEX-4T-1. The fusion protein was then
overexpressed in Escherichia coli and purified on a glutathione-agarose column. The purified apoMT was
examined for its binding behavior toward a number of toxic metals including Ni, Cu, Cd, Zn and Pb.
066
INVESTIGATING ON THE EFFECT OF CONSUMER-BASED RECRUITMENT
STRATEGIES: EVIDENCE FOR BRAND IMAGE AND EMPLOYER COMPARISONS AS
MODERATOR VARIABLES
Anne D. Sito, B.A., Melanie Beland, Christopher A. Davis, Michael Horvath, Ph.D., Rebecca Riffle, B.A.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
We are in the initial stages of integrating the organizational recruitment (i.e., how to attract prospective
employees) and consumer psychology literatures. While there has been a body of work that studied the
attractiveness of perspective employers, few studies have used techniques developed in the literatures of
marketing or consumer psychology. We will present our initial efforts to integrate this research three
ways. First, we will examine whether the attitudes and behaviors of job seekers and consumers may be
similar or different. For instance, we explore reasons why certain types of common consumer decisions
may differ from job choice decisions (e.g., lower time commitment). Second, we will discuss several
consumer techniques that can be applied in recruitment situations. (e.g., brand image, Multidimensional
Scaling). Third, we will describe the ultimate method and sample we will use to explore some of these
ideas. Specifically, we describe an ongoing relationship between our research team and the US branch of a
multi-national manufacturing organization, wherein we survey all of the applicants to the organization
annually. Additionally we will outline in more detail the methods used in a preliminary study of
approximately 1500 participants, including an initial exploration of how job applicants rate their attraction
to multiple companies differently.
067
THE SYNERGISTIC ROLE OF INTERFERON-γ AND DSRNA IN PROSTATE CANCER CELL
APOPTOSIS
Haiyan Tan, M.D. and Aimin Zhou Ph.D.
Clinical Chemistry Program, Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
Interferons (IFNs) are a family of pleiotropic cytokines responsible for inducing innate and adaptive
immunities against a wide-range of viruses and other microbial pathogens. IFNs also exert antitumor
activities due to their anti-proliferative, immunomodulatory and proapoptotic functions. In recent years,
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30
studies have revealed that a combination of IFNs with cytotoxic compounds such as paclitaxel and
thalidomide augments the cytotoxicity for prostate cancer cells in an additive manner. Here we report that
pretreatment of PC-3 cells, a human prostate adenocarcinoma cell line, with IFNs sensitized these cells to
double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs)-induced apoptosis. The enhancement effect of IFN treatment was
dependent on IFN subtypes, in particular, IFN-γ. In comparison with IFN-α or β, IFN-γ treatment
remarkably augmented dsRNA-induced apoptosis in PC-3 cells. By using mutant cell lines, we
demonstrated that IFN-signaling is necessary for these effects. Transfection of 2-5A, the activator of
RNase L, or silence of dsRNA-dependent protein kinase R (PKR) by siRNA did not have any significant
impact on this event, suggesting that neither RNase L nor PKR is involved in this event. Further
investigation of the apoptotic pathway revealed that Bak, a pro-apoptotic member of the Bcl-2 family, was
up-regulated by IFN-γ and dsRNA. Our findings may lead to the design of novel therapeutic strategies for
prostate cancer.
068
EX-OFFENDERS: ATTITUDES TOWARD FINDING WORK
Anne D. Sito, B.A., Michael Horvath, Ph.D, Chieh-Chen Bowen, Ph.D, Brittany Bate
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
The present study looks at how ex-offenders (i.e., individuals with previous felony convictions) differ in
their motivation to search for a job versus non-offenders. Such differences are important to explore, as
anecdotal reports indicate that ex-offenders face significant challenges when finding employment (e.g.,
due to the stigma attached to a conviction). Currently There is minimal existing literature that directly
looks at this area. Specifically, we compared offenders and non-offenders with respect to several
motivation-related variables and potential barriers to job search motivation (such as self-efficacy,
expectancy of getting a job soon, time pressures, the value of education, or a desire to improve one’s job
search skills vs. just getting a job quickly). To examine these relationships, we collected survey data from
a sample of 47 ex-offenders and 57 non-offenders who were making use of a municipal employment
agency. Initial analyses show that ex-offenders feel more pressure to attain a job quickly than do nonoffenders, but that they appear to be similar on other motivation-related variables. Differences were also
observed in the typical education and gender composition of the two groups.
069
DESIGN AND SYNTHESIS OF FUNCTIONAL MULTIVALENT GLYCO-LIGANDS FOR
AFFINITY PROTEOMICS APPLICATION
Satya N Narla, BSPS; Xue-Long Sun, Ph.D.
1,2
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
Carbohydrates, especially, cell surface carbohydrates act as receptors for a variety of ligands such as
proteins and thereby play significant roles in a wide range of biological processes, such as immune
recognition events and interaction of viruses and bacteria with host cells. Binding interactions of
carbohydrates and proteins have provided a starting point for the development of framework with a
concept for the isolation and probing of proteins and cells in biological research which has novel
diagnostic and therapeutic applications. In this presentation, we report a facile synthesis of chain-end
functionalized glycopolymers for oriented bioconjugation and on-demand glyco-affinity proteomics
applications. A chain ended functionalized glycopolymer was synthesized via cyanoxyl-mediated freeradical polymerization in one-pot fashion. It’s rapid purification and identification of carbohydratebinding protein was investigated.
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070
EXAMINING THE SELF CORRECTED AND NON-SELF CORRECTED ERRORS ON THE
STROOP TEST
Ashley Miller¹, B.A., Kirk Bryant¹, B.A., Scott Magnuson¹, B.A., Kelly Martincin¹, B.S., Erika Livers¹,
B.A., Rachel Martukovich¹, B.A., Amir Poreh, Ph.D.1,2
Cleveland State University, Department of Psychology¹
University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry2
Objective: The present study utilizes computer assisted software to administer two commonly used
neuropsychological tests. The aim of the study was to examine the self corrected errors and non-self
corrected errors and the amount of time it took participants to complete the tasks.
Participants and Methods: Forty randomly sampled adults were administered the Comalli’s Stroop Test
and
the Trail
Making
Test.
Participants’ average
age was 33.5 (SD= 14).
Results: This study found that the amount of errors made in part B of the Trail Making Test was
significantly correlated with the amount of non-self corrected errors made during part 3 of the Stroop Test.
Self-corrected errors correlated with the total time it took to complete part 3 of the Stroop Test.
Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that the ability to self-correct on the Stroop Test is a sign of
health and the ability to self-monitor. People who made more non-self corrected errors on the Stroop Test
also made more errors on the Trail Making Test. Utilizing the self-corrected errors on the Stroop Test
gives test administrators an additional tool in detecting control and the ability to self-monitor.
071
FACTOR VA LIGHT CHAIN INTERACTION WITH FACTOR XA DURING PROTHROMBIN
ACTIVATION
Oruba Abdallah, BS1*, Jamila Hirbawi BS1*, and Michael Kalafatis, PhD1,2.
1
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
2
Molecular Cardiology, Cleveland Clinic.
The proteolytic conversion of prothrombin to thrombin is catalyzed by the prothrombinase complex
composed of the enzyme, factor Xa (fXa), the cofactor, factor Va (fVa), assembled on a membrane surface
in the presence of divalent metal ions. The incorporation of factor Va (fVa) into the prothrombinase
complex results in a 300,000-fold increase in the catalytic efficiency of factor Xa (fXa) for thrombin
generation. It has been shown that the amino-terminus of the factor Va light chain is involved in
recognition of factor Xa. Site-directed mutagenesis was performed to generate factor V molecules with
mutations at amino acids 1549-1552 of the light chain. Factor VGN→AA (FVGN) is located at amino acids
1549-1550, Factor VRR→AA (FVRR) is at amino acids 1551-1552, and Factor VNR→AA (FVNR) includes
amino acids 1550 and 1551. These recombinant molecules along with wild type factor V (fVWT) were
transiently expressed in COS7 cells and assessed for their capability to promote prothrombin activation.
Thrombin generation was evaluated and the kinetic parameters of the reactions were determined. Twostage clotting assays (PT times) revealed that prothrombinase assembled with either FVaGN or FVaRR had
clotting times that were similar to the wild-type, while prothrombinase assembled with FVaNR had a
prolonged clotting time when compared to FVWT. Kinetic analyses demonstrated that Kd values for FVaRR,
FVaGN, and FVaNR showed similar values to wild-type. However, kcat values for the prothrombinase
complex formed with the various molecules, differed. The kcat values for FVaRR and FVaGN did not have a
significant difference to values obtained from prothrombinase assembled with FVaWT. In contrast,
prothrombinase containing FVaNR had a dramatic drop in value with a kcat value of about 33% of the wildtype. The data presented in this study provides an insight into a possible FXa interactive site within amino
acids 1549-1552 of the FVa light chain.
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072
FAIRNESS PERCEPTIONS: EXPLORING THE EXISTENCE OF MEDIATOR VARIABLES IN
ORGANIZATIONAL JUSTICE
Christopher A. Davis, A.A., Michael Horvath, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
This abstract represents proposed research not yet undergone. Recent research indicates numerous
frameworks for organizational justice. This research delves into the literature surrounding mediating
variables in the realm of organizational justice, the majority of which focus only on theoretical
conceptualizations. The objective of this study is to gather evidence to support the role of moderator
variables on perceptions of fairness. This study will measure the relationship between gender and job type
as well as explore the impact of SES on perceived fairness. Demographic information will be considered
as well. A variety of job types will be selected, with considerations to include male dominated, female
dominated, and gender neutral careers. SES will be measured using The Barratt Simplified Measure of
Social Status. Perceptions of fairness will be measured using an adaptation of Colquitt’s Measure.
Hypotheses include: An interaction between gender and job type; an interaction between gender and SES;
an interaction between demographic variables (race/ethnicity) and SES. The target population of this study
is undergraduate students spanning numerous majors. Data will be collected on the campus of Cleveland
State University. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) will determine the statistical significance of the
relationships hypothesized. The data will then be interpreted within the current theoretical constructs. The
impact of this research will further aid the world of organizational justice by providing a more complete
understanding of what impacts our perceptions of fairness.
073
EXPLORING THE REGULATION OF GIARDIA INTESTINALIS ENCYSTMENT
Iryna Tsarukyanova, M.S., Harry van Keulen, Ph.D.
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Giardia intestinalis is a binucleated unicellular parasite, which is responsible for most cases of nonbacterial diarrhea. There are about 25,000 cases of giardiasis registered in the USA every year. The
infection is passed through contaminated food, water, and direct fecal-oral contact (day care centers).
Energy metabolism is by glycolysis, although the Arginine dihydrolase pathway present in some
prokaryotes may be also used. The parasite exists in two morphologically distinct forms: trophic
(trophozoite) and infective (cyst).The mechanism of cyst formation is not fully understood. The newly
formed cyst wall consists of 36% protein and 63% carbohydrate, containing N-acetylglucosamine. Five
inducible enzymes are responsible for the synthesis of the cyst wall. The first one is Glucose-6-phosphate
deaminase (GNP) that uses fructose-6-phosphate from glycolysis and initiates N-acetylglucosamine
synthesis. In order to switch between these energetic and biosynthetic pathways, the parasite must have
evolved a mode of regulation.
Glycolysis in a typical eukaryotic cell is regulated by allosteric control of Phosphofructokinase. However,
this enzyme is not regulated in Giardia.
The hypothesis is that Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) might be used to regulate
glycolysis through nitrosylation by nitric oxide (NO). GAPDH as well as the key enzyme for the
encystment, GNP, both have putative nitrosylation sites. The parasite may use nitrosylation of these two
enzymes as a mechanism to control glycolysis and cyst wall synthesis. Giardia produces NO, however the
origin of the molecule has not been identified yet.
074
PATTERNS OF MULTIALLELIC POLYMORPHISM MAINTAINED BY MIGRATION AND
SELECTION
Penny H. Benchek, Partha Srinivasan, Ph.D
Department of Mathematics, Cleveland State University
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33
We investigate the spatial patterns of gene frequencies due to the action of both migration and selection.
We limit this examination to the discrete-space, continuous time (system of ordinary differential
equations) setting. We follow the ODE model derived by Nagylaki and Lou (2006). We are looking at the
simplest case, two demes from which individuals may migrate and two alleles at a single diallelic locus.
We have found that, in the absence of dominance, given migration and symmetrical viability differences
within each deme, there are stable equilibria. We have found this to be true for two separate cases. The
first case is when we vary both the homozygote with the selection advantage and the homozygote with the
selection disadvantage equally from the heterozygote in both demes. The second case is when the viability
differences between the homozygotes and the heterozygote vary non-equivalently between the two demes.
For future research, we are interested in stability of equilibria (or lack thereof) in the case when there are
more than two demes. We would like to study this under conditions of dominance and incomplete
dominance. We are particularly interested in the case that gives a heterozygote advantage in some demes
but not all, as is the case with Sickle Cell Anemia.
075
EXPLORING THE REGULATION OF GIARDIA INTESTINALIS ENCYSTMENT
Iryna Tsarukyanova, M.S., Harry van Keulen, Ph.D.
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Giardia intestinalis is a binucleated unicellular parasite, which is responsible for most cases of nonbacterial diarrhea. There are about 25,000 cases of giardiasis registered in the USA every year. The
infection is passed through contaminated food, water, and direct fecal-oral contact (day care centers).
Energy metabolism is by glycolysis, although the Arginine dihydrolase pathway present in some
prokaryotes may be also used. The parasite exists in two morphologically distinct forms: trophic
(trophozoite) and infective (cyst).The mechanism of cyst formation is not fully understood. The newly
formed cyst wall consists of 36% protein and 63% carbohydrate, containing N-acetylglucosamine. Five
inducible enzymes are responsible for the synthesis of the cyst wall. The first one is Glucose-6-phosphate
deaminase (GNP) that uses fructose-6-phosphate from glycolysis and initiates N-acetylglucosamine
synthesis. In order to switch between these energetic and biosynthetic pathways, the parasite must have
evolved a mode of regulation.
Glycolysis in a typical eukaryotic cell is regulated by allosteric control of Phosphofructokinase. However,
this enzyme is not regulated in Giardia.
The hypothesis is that Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) might be used to regulate
glycolysis through nitrosylation by nitric oxide (NO). GAPDH as well as the key enzyme for the
encystment, GNP, both have putative nitrosylation sites. The parasite may use nitrosylation of these two
enzymes as a mechanism to control glycolysis and cyst wall synthesis. Giardia produces NO, however the
origin of the molecule has not been identified yet.
076
TELOMERE TERMINAL STRUCTURE IN TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI
Ranjodh Sandhu, M.S., Bibo Li, Ph.D.*
Department of Biological, Geological, and Enviromental Sciences, Cleveland State University
*Corresponding Author
Telomeres are specialized nucleoprotein complexes at the ends of linear chromosomes and are essential
for chromosome stability. In most eukaryotes, telomere DNA consists of simple repetitive TG-rich
sequences with the G-rich strand running 5’ to 3’ towards the chromosome end. While the G-rich strand
can be synthesized by telomerase, the C-rich strand is replicated by conventional DNA polymerase, which
requires a primer. Removal of the terminal primer after DNA replication leaves a single-stranded 3’
overhang at the telomere end. This telomere G-overhang structure is essential for telomere maintenance: in
the presence of telomerase, G-overhang serves as a primer; in the absence of telomerase, G-overhang can
mediate efficient break-induced-repair (BIR) of chromosome ends, an alternative mechanism for telomere
maintenance and an important pathway for telomere recombination. Telomere recombination is
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34
particularly important for Trypanosoma brucei, a protozoan parasite and the causative agent of African
trypanosomiasis. T. brucei evades the host immune attack by regularly changing its variant surface
glycoprotein (VSG), and telomere recombination through BIR pathway is an important mechanism for
VSG switching. However, T. brucei telomere terminal structure is poorly understood, and so far native ingel hybridization is the only method to detect telomere G-overhang signal in this organism. Unfortunately,
this method is not sensitive enough for measuring the length of G-overhang. To further analyze the
telomere G-overhang structure in T. brucei, we adopted a ligation mediated primer extension assay that
was successfully used to examine G-overhang structure in ciliates. This allows us to determine both the
length and the terminal nucleotide of the G-overhang structure. Our preliminary results showed that T.
brucei telomere G-overhang is approximately 30–40 nt long in the insect stage and 60–80 nt long in the
bloodstream form stage.
077
TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI TIN2: IS IT IMPORTANT FOR ANTIGENIC VARIATION?
Sanaa Jehi, M.S. and Bibo Li, Ph.D.*
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, College of Science, Cleveland State
University
* Corresponding Author
Trypanosoma brucei, a protozoan parasite and the causative agent for African trypanosomiasis, evades the
host immune attack by regularly switching the expression of its surface antigen - Variant Surface
glycoproteins (VSG). Although there are more than 1000 VSG genes in T. brucei genome, VSGs are
exclusively expressed from one of ~20 nearly identical subtelomeric expression sites (ESs). At anytime,
only one ES is fully active, resulting in a single VSG being expressed. VSG switching occurs through
multiple pathways. An in situ switch simultaneously turns off the active ES promoter and turns on a silent
one; Reciprocal crossover between the active ES and a silent one at telomere proximal region leads to the
exchange of the active and a silent VSG; And gene conversion can result in replacement of the active VSG
with a copy of a silent one. Little is known about the regulation of VSG switching, although an unstable
telomere structure next to the active VSG would presumably stimulate VSG switching. We have identified
a T. brucei Tin2 homologue as an interacting factor of tbTRF, which binds the duplex telomere DNA
directly. Inducible tbTin2 RNAi cell lines have been established and we have found that tbTin2 is essential
for normal cell growth. In addition, our preliminary results suggest that tbTin2 is important for normal
telomere structure. Whether tbTin2 influence VSG switching is being actively investigated.
078
MAPPING VEGETATION IN THE LOWER COLORADO RIVER BASIN
Kelly J. Amundsen, B.S., Mary wells-Montecalvo, B.S., Wentworth B. Clapham, Jr., Ph.D.
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
The United States Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) monitors water loss from the Lower Colorado River
Basin. Using remote sensing methods USBR estimates the amount of water lost to the atmosphere via
evapo-transpiration (ET) of agricultural crops and riparian vegetation, and direct evaporation from openwater sources. While estimates of crop ET and open-water evaporation are well-defined, estimates of
riparian vegetation ET are limited by the ability of USBR to map the vegetation itself. At Cleveland State
we are assisting USBR in improving their methods of mapping riparian vegetation. We are using an object
oriented classification scheme and high-resolution aerial photography to create a map of Lower Colorado
River riparian vegetation at the species level. We then plan to use lower-resolution satellite imagery to
produce a spectral library of mixed vegetation classes that USBR may use to produce future vegetation
maps of the region.
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35
079
NOVEL APPROACH TO THE CHARACTERIZATION OF PHARMACEUTICAL EXCIPIENTS
REVEALS NEW DIELECTRIC VISCO ELASTIC PROPERTIES BY THERMAL ANALYTICAL
METHODS
Hareesha Reddy Venumuddala, BSPS1 ,Alan Riga, PhD1, K.S. Alexander, PhD2
1
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
2
Pharmacy Practice, The University of Toledo
Millions of dollars are expended on pharmaceutical testing to qualify excipients for fully formulated
drugs, medicines, and active ingredients. Individual and interactive properties of excipients and drugs are
needed to predict their action in the human body. Dielectric Analysis [DEA] and Differential Scanning
Calorimetry [DSC] methods were employed to screen the most widely used drug excipients seeking new
properties to assist pre-formulation studies. The following excipients were examined by DEA: calcium
phosphate, cotton seed oil, croscarmellose, gelatin, mannitol, peanut oil, polyethylene glycol, pioneer
sugar, plasdone, sodium alginate, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium starch glycolate, sodium stearate, a
sorbitol solution, canola oil, anhydrous lactose, and benzoic acid. A comparison of DSC and DEA thermal
curves based on the same excipient indicates that major endothermic events, e.g. volatilization or melting,
are also delineated by fundamental DEA properties, with an exponential rise in permittivity and dielectric
loss factor (conductivity). The focus of this research was to study the DEA electrical conductivity,
permittivity and tan delta vs. frequency as a function of temperature. The Premelt DEA properties varied
significantly leading to new dielectric visco-elastic properties. Crystalline excipients have a low electrical
conductivity (ca.10-1pS/cm) while their amorphous form has an exceptionally high electrical conductivity
(ca.107 pS/cm). Relative amorphous and crystalline content of the excipients can be determined by DEA.
There is an extraordinary event in the solid state prior to melting which can be associated with the creation
of excited molecules, excimers. This revelation can lead to new synthesis and reaction paths.
080
THE PSYCHOMETRIC EQUIVALENCE OF THE WISCONSIN CARD SORTING AND THE
POREH FORM SORTING TESTS.
Daniel R. Pastel, Amir Poreh Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
Neuropsychological assessments have been shown to be useful, yet non-invasive diagnostic tools in
clinical settings. Computerized versions of these assessments have potential advantages but studies
showing the psychometric equivalence between computerized and pen-and-paper assessments are needed
to insure cross validity. The current study presents preliminary data regarding the psychometric
equivalence of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test - 64 Card Version (WCST-64) and the Poreh Form
Sorting Tests (PFST). The differences between the two measures include the computerized administration
and the specific stimuli on the target cards in the PFST. A representative sample of approximately 100
adult participants between the ages of 18 and 65 were administered the PFST and scores were collected in
the areas of total errors, preservative responses, and preservative errors. The preliminary results were
compared to the homologous normative data provided for the WCST-64 by t-tests and showed that the two
measures produce similar results in all tested dimensions and correlate highly. These findings suggest that
the computerized administration and structural differences between the two assessments had no effect on
the measurement of neuropsychological variables. Additional research using a larger sample is needed
prior to using this test in clinical settings.
081
THE EXAMINATION OF THREAT, AFFILIATION, AND PRONOUN USAGE IN RELATION
TO CONSUMER EVALUATIONS
Sarah M. DiGioia, B.A., Michael Horvath, Ph.D., Ernest S. Park, Ph.D., Johnny A. Sams, B.A.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
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36
This study further examines the relationship between threat and affiliation tendencies. Under threat, there
is a tendency to embrace others in efforts to reduce threat and uncertainty. This study explores whether
product advertisements that use inclusive pronouns (e.g., we, our) lead products to be perceived as more
attractive/valuable under threat (compared to low threat). The study employs a 2 (threat: low vs. high) X 2
(ad reference frame: inclusive pronouns vs. 3rd person) between-subjects design. Data from 155 university
student participants were collected. Participants were told they would be taking part in a learning exercise,
and were “randomly” assigned the role of the “learner” who would complete a memorization task. They
were told a participant in another room would act as the “teacher”, who would administer the
punishment/reinforcement (e.g., sound blasts) to the “learner” as/if mistakes are made (this did not
actually happen, as the participants were only led to believe this was a possibility). In the high threat
condition, participants were provided with a profile of a ‘teacher’ who scores high on aggression
measures. In the low threat condition, the “teacher’s” profile showed low aggression scores. Participants
then viewed one of two versions of an advertisement for a hypothetical product. Some subjects viewed a
product advertisement for an iPod framed in inclusive terms (we/our), while others read an advertisement
framed in less inclusive terms (3rd person). After viewing the advertisement, participants answered
questions about the product and advertisement. We expect that participants in the inclusive pronoun
condition will evaluate the product more positively and that the positive impact of inclusive pronoun use
will be stronger under high levels of threat. If our hypotheses are supported, our research can be used to
frame a wide range of persuasive communications (e.g., health-related messages; political speeches;
advertisements) so the audience is more receptive.
082
SQUARES INSCRIBED IN CURVES
Michael T. Hardin, Alec Phillips, Candice Quinn, Sean P. Sheridan
Department of Mathematics, Cleveland State University
A mathematical conjecture from Victor Klee’s and Stan Wagon’s Old and New Unsolved Problems: In
Plane Geometry and Number Theory asks “Does every simple closed curve in the plane contain all four
vertices of some square?” Here, we are observing smooth curves, such as circles and ellipses, and curves
with vertices such as triangles and other polygons. By discovering an algorithm for finding the coordinates
and side lengths of a square inside both triangles and ellipses, we can observe the square inscribed in these
curves and we can determine if the inscribed square is unique or not.
083
SYNTHEIE AND EVALUATION OF SOME STEROIDAL OXIMES AS CYTOTOXIC AGENTS:
STRUCTURE/ACTIVITY STUDIES
Xin Yi, B.A., 1Boo Seok Yun, M.A. , 2Jianguo Cui,Ph.D. , 1Aimin Zhou
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University;
2
Department of Chemistry, Guangxi Teachers Education University, Nanning, China
1
1
A series of hydroximinosteroid derivatives with distinct substituted groups on the ring A and B, and a
diversity of side chains, have been prepared. The cytotoxicity of the synthesized compounds against SkHep-1, H-292, PC-3 and Hey-1B cancer cells was investigated. Our results have demonstrated that the
presence of a hydroxy on 3- or 6-position of the steroidal nucleus would result in an increase of cytotoxic
activity for the compounds against tumor cells and a cholesterol-type side chain at the position 17 was
required for the biological activity. Interestingly, elimination of a 4,5-double bond remarkably augmented
the cytotoxic activity of the steroidal oximes with 3, 6-hydroximino groups, suggesting that a specific
three-dimensional structure of these compounds contributes to their biofunctions. The findings provide
some new evidences showing the relationship between the chemical structure and biological function.
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37
084
DEVELOPING NEW INDICES FOR THE IDENTIFICATION OF RESPONSE BIAS
Scott Magnuson1, Kirk Bryant1, Dan Pastel1, Ashley Miller1, Kelly Martincin1, Amir Poreh, Ph.D.1,2,
Cleveland State University, Department of Psychology1
University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry2
Objective: The present study utilizes computer assisted software to develop new indices in order to
distinguish individuals feigning Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from people performing genuinely.
Participants and Methods: Fifty-eight randomly sampled adults were administered the Digit Span, Digit
Symbol, Trail Making Test, and Auditory Verbal Learning Test. Each participant was administered the
test while performing genuinely, as well as simulating as if they had PTSD. The two groups were
counterbalanced in order to account for test-retest reliability. Participants’ average age was 27.3
(Sd=13.08) and the average years of education was 14.3 (SD=1.99). Majority of the subjects were female
(51.7%) and right handed (87.9%).
Results: This study found that trails 21-25 on part A of the Trail Making Test were accurately able to
distinguish participants who were performing genuinely from when they were simulating PTSD. Utilizing
a cut-off of 6.5 seconds, this index was found to have a 76.7% sensitivity rate and 89% specificity rate.
Scores of 5.5 and below were associated with a 90.7% and 82.2% sensitivity and specificity. This measure
significantly correlated with other well known effort detection tests and indices such as the Reliable Digit
Span (r=-.492), AVLT forced choice recognition test (-.563), and the Digit Symbol Test (-.542).
Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that scores derived from trails 21-25 of Part A of the TMT
are good measurement of poor effort. This assessment was found to have good sensitivity (.907) and
specificity (.822). Data support the Trail Making Test’s ability to detect poor effort amongst test takers.
Utilizing this measurement gives test administrators one more tool in detecting poor effort.
085
A WESTERNIZED DIET DETERIORATES β-CELL FUNCTION SEVERELY IN MICE
LACKING THE ORPHAN RECEPTOR SHP
Yoonkwang Lee, PhD1, Young Joo Park MD/PhD2, Stacy A Johnson MD/PhD3, Vijay Yechoor MD4,
Lawrence Chan DSc4, and David D Moore PhD3
1
Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and
Pharmacy, Rootstown
2
Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, KOREA
3
Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, and 4Department of Medicine, Baylor College of
Medicine, Houston, TX
The congenic SHP-/- mice on the C57BL/6 background (backcross to 10th generation) were created to
explore the role played by SHP in the development of obesity and diabetes induced by a western diet
(21.2% w/w fat, 0.2% w/w cholesterol) extensively. Unexpectedly, we observed results quite different
from earlier studies with mice on a mixed C57BL/6 x 129Sv background. Firstly, the congenic SHP null
mice were only slightly resistant to the western diet induced obesity and showed no difference in
PGC1alpha expression in brown adipose tissue from wild type control mice. Secondly, after 22 weeks of
the western diet, glucose intolerance in the SHP-/- mice was more severe than that in the wild type animals
fed the same diet. The observation that both of the genotypes fed the western diet show no difference in
insulin tolerance tests indicates that there is no dysfunction in glucose uptake in peripheral tissues in SHP
null mice. Corroborating this, decreased hepatic insulin sensitivity in SHP null mice was compensated by
an increase in muscle insulin sensitivity. Interestingly, the levels of insulin are not significantly different
between the two genotypes fed chow or western diet, but loss of glucose stimulated insulin secretion is
clearly evident in the islets isolated from SHP null mice fed western diet. Illimina beadchip analysis with
RNAs isolated from islets identified that several key genes involved in beta-cell function and growth
expressed differentially between the two genotypes.
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38
086
RECOMBINATION AND CHROMOSOME DYNAMICS DURING YEAST MEIOSIS
Neeraj Joshi, M.Sc., G. Valentin Börner, Ph.D.
Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Disease, Department of Biological, Geological and
Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115
Meiosis, a specialized cell division involves pairing of homologous chromosomes, promoting
interhomolog recombination, resulting in the formation of functional gametes. This is essential, as
chromosome mis-segregation leads to formation of gametes with a chromosome surplus or deficit.
Aneuploid gametes are one of the major contributing factors of birth defects and other genetic anomalies.
Here we, identify a link between this essential recombination process and meiotic chromosome axes,
which are selectively modified in response to crossover placement at specific places along the yeast
genome. We show that, domainal installation of axis ensemble Hop1/Red1 at future crossover sites occurs
during early meiotic prophase and is independent of crossover formation. Also, the widely conserved Pch2
protein plays a role in controlling the positioning of crossover marker Zip3 and meiotic axis protein Hop1,
thereby contributing significantly to the coordinate control of axis modification at global genome level and
crossover formation at the molecular level. We propose that Pch2 facilitates crossover associated axis
remodeling by reorganizing chromosome axes into a tiling array of long-range crossover control modules,
thereby coordinately ensuring appropriate levels and spacing of crossovers.
087
TEACHER
KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, AND ATTITUDES TOWARD INCLUSION
PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS (ASD)
Patricia C. Collette, Colleen M. McMahon, Ph.D
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
The number of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in the USA steadily increased
every year since the early 1980’s. As a result, more public school general education classrooms include
students with ASD, which begs the question; do general education teachers possess the knowledge and
willing attitude to instruct these special needs children? For schools to successfully implement inclusion
programs teachers must possess the appropriate attitudes towards children with ASD and adequate
knowledge and expectations regarding the impact of ASD on development (Chow & Winzer, 1992, in
Levins, Bornholt, & Lennon, 2005). Previous research suggests that the more experience teachers had with
children with special needs the higher confidence they had in being able to teach them (Avramidis,
Bayliss, & Burden, 1999, 2000). In this same study it was found that children with behavioral difficulties
including children with autism were the cause of most concern by both preservice and in service teachers
(1999, 2000). The current study will utilize attitudinal survey methodology and vignette based knowledge
surveys to assess teachers’ knowledge and attitudes toward students with ASD. General education teachers
(i.e., those without special needs training) will participate in the study. It is predicted that professional and
personal experience with individuals with ASD will impact attitude and knowledge outcomes in a positive
way. Results will be discussed in regard to inclusion programming, teacher training, and attitudinal
research.
088
INVESTIGATING THE POSSIBLE CORRELATION OF MEMORY SPAN & PROCESSING
SPEED BETWEEN OLDER & YOUNGER ADULTS
Jessica L. Newell, Conor T. McLennan, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
We conducted a series of experiments examining older and younger adults’ perception of spoken words.
We were particularly interested in whether listeners would recognize words more efficiently when they
were hearing a word they heard recently spoken by the same talker relative to a different talker (talker
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39
effects). In order to evaluate several hypotheses, participants also completed a speeded categorization
(processing speed) task as well as an alpha memory span task. In the categorization task, a category name
appeared on the monitor (WEAPON) followed by two words (GUN FLOWER). The participants’ task
was to indicate which of the words was a member of the category (GUN). In the alpha span task,
participants heard words (pencil, brother, finger) and their task was to repeat the words in alphabetical
order (brother, finger, pencil). We predicted that 1) processing speed would be positively correlated with
alpha span, 2) processing speed would be negatively correlated with the magnitude of the talker effect
obtained in the main word recognition experiment, and 3) alpha span would be negatively correlated with
the magnitude of the talker effect obtained in the main word recognition experiment. Examining the
relationship between processing speed, memory span, and talker effects should provide important new
insights into how listeners represent and process spoken words, as well as valuable information about the
aging lexicon.
089
CHARACTERIZATION OF THE INTERACTION BETWEEN TBTRF AND A NOVEL
PROTEIN TB1710
Clara M. Antoury and Bibo Li, Ph.D.
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences; College of Science, Cleveland State
University
Telomeres, the nucleoprotein complexes at the ends of linear chromosomes, are essential for protection of
chromosome ends from illegitimate nucleolytic activities, DNA repairs and recombination events.
Telomere biology has been implicated in tumorigenesis and cellular aging, and the telomere protein
complex is critical for these functions. Trypanosoma brucei is a protozoan parasite that causes sleeping
sickness in humans and nagana in cattle. In human bloodstream, T. brucei regularly switches the Variant
Surface Glycoprotein (VSG) gene expressed to evade host immune attack. VSG genes are expressed
exclusively from VSG expression sites (ESs) located immediately upstream of the telomere. Interestingly,
only one of ~20 nearly identical ESs is fully active at any time, resulting in a single VSG gene being
expressed. We have recently found that the telomere complex plays an essential role in VSG expression
control and possibly through regulation of transcription elongation. To further elucidate the telomere
functions in VSG regulation, we did a yeast 2-hybrid screen using tbTRF, the duplex telomere DNA
binding factor, as bait and identified a protein tb1710 with unknown function. Using yeast-2 hybrid
analysis, we confirmed that full-length tbTRF interacts with full-length tb1710 and that the N-terminal 315
amino acids of tb1710 and the self-interaction domain of tbTRF are sufficient for this interaction. Also,
analysis of the tb1710 protein sequence showed that tb1710 has significant similarities as the human and
yeast ISW1 homologues, which is a transcription elongation factor. This sequence similarity suggests that
tb1710 may also be important for transcription elongation, which has been shown to play a critical role in
regulation of ES and VSG expression.
090
EFFECTIVE INTERVENTIONS FOR CUMULATIVE TRAUMA DISORDERS OF THE UPPER
EXTREMITY IN COMPUTER USERS; A MODEL FOR PRACTICE
Bobinski, D., Elsesser, L. Fisher, A., Hansen, J., Kovach, L. & Goodman G.
Department of Health Sciences, Cleveland State University
Using a systematic review, the goal of this occupational therapy research project was to analyze the
effectiveness of current interventions for Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs) in the upper extremities of
computer users and to propose practical application of these methods. Due to the limited research on
occupational therapy interventions for this population, the literature search was expanded to incorporate
multidisciplinary approaches to CTD prevention and treatment. Over the course of 14 months, 4,686
articles were reviewed using exclusion criteria resulting in the inclusion of 50 articles. A list of weighted
conditions was developed to assess the quality and relevance of each article, resulting in data extraction of
25 articles. Sixteen of the 25 articles ranked as high quality were utilized to construct an evidenced-based
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40
model of practice for symptomatic and asymptomatic computer users. Based on the literature appraisal,
three levels of intervention were included in the models: education, exercise, and specific ergonomic
modifications. Intervention types were arranged in a cost-effective manner to adequately meet the needs of
the computer user and to ease their implementation in a work environment.
091
DEVELOPMENT OF DIATOM INDICATORS OF BIOLOGICAL CONDITION FOR THE
USEPA NATIONAL LAKES ASSESSMENT
Julie A. Wolin, Ph.D. 1 , R. Jan Stevenson, Ph.D. 2, Jason Zalack, M.S. 2, Donald F. Charles, Ph.D. 3 and
Mihaela Enache, Ph.D. 3
1
Dept. of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University;
2
Department of Zoology, Center for Water Sciences, Michigan State University;
3
Patrick Center for Environmental Research, The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia
As part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencies National Lakes Assessment, we are developing
Diatom Indicators of Biological Condition as a tool for determining the ecological health of our nation’s
lakes and reservoirs. The diatoms are a widespread group of algae, abundant in aquatic habitats. They are
useful biological indicators because many are highly sensitive to environmental conditions. Species vary
depending on their ability to flourish in a given environment (e.g. pH, nutrient content, or salinity). A total
of 1028 randomly selected target lakes and 124 special reference lakes were sampled for physical,
chemical and biological data across the lower 48 states. Surface sediments collected from the deepest point
in the lake were analyzed for diatom species composition. These data were then used to develop inference
models for predicting total phosphorus, total nitrogen, pH and acid neutralizing capacity (ANC) in lakes.
These models can then be used to hind-cast environmental conditions under which previous sediments
were deposited. Additionally, a separate diatom-based Index of Biotic Integrity (DIBI) is being developed
that utilizes functional characteristics of species groups in association with water-quality conditions, or
metrics (e.g. taxa richness, diversity, edibility, and lake habitat preference). Those diatom metrics that are
most sensitive to human impacts in lakes are being integrated into a multimetric Index of Lake Condition.
Once completed, these diatom-based inference models and DIBI will be used by states to collect base-line
information, examine water quality, and evaluate improvements in their lake and reservoir ecosystems.
092
THE EFFECT OF GOAL ORIENTATIONS ON LEARNING AND PERFORMANCE IN
RELATIONSHIP TO COMPETIVENESS
Nobuko Makishi, M.A., Melanie Beland, B.A., Muji Abang, B.A., & Michael Horvath, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University.
Our poster will describe a study that we are creating to explore the relationships between motivation,
learning and performance. Previous research suggests that in achievement-based settings, people work
towards different overarching goals. Specifically, people may orient themselves towards either learning as
much as they can, demonstrating their competence or avoiding showing their incompetence. The previous
literature shows that some of theses goals are more effective than others. However, we do not know
whether the effectiveness of these orientations will be affected by the competitiveness of the situation. In
our study, we will see whether competitiveness affects these relationships. We will have a sample of CSU
undergraduates perform a series of word search tasks. Participants will be assigned to a particular
combination of goal orientation (mastery, avoiding demonstrating incompetence, demonstrating
competence) and competitiveness. We will measure both performance (based on the number of words
found) and learning (based on the number of word search strategies discovered). Additionally, we will
examine whether certain personality characteristics (e.g. trait competitiveness) will affect these
relationships. The results of this research will enable educators and industry managers to create the
optimal environment for learning and performance.
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41
093
PIONIOR CHARACTERIZATION OF T. BRUCEI TEL2’S FUNCTION IN ANTIGENIC
VARIATION
Imaan Benmerzouga, B.S. and Bibo Li, Ph.D.*
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, College of Science, Cleveland State
University
*Corresponding author
Trypanosoma brucei is a protozoan parasite that causes African trypanosomiasis. In mammalian host, T.
brucei cells regularly switch its surface antigen, Variant Surface Glycoprotein (VSG), to evade host
immune attack. To maximize the efficiency of VSG switching, T. brucei expresses a single type VSG
exclusively from one of ~20 nearly identical VSG expression sites (ESs) located next to the telomere.
Telomeres are specialized nucleoprotein complexes located at the ends of linear chromosomes. They are
essential for chromosome stability and form a heterochromatic structure that can influence the
transcription of genes located nearby. Importantly, we have shown that one of telomere-specific proteins is
essential for VSG expression control, indicating that telomeres are important for virulence mechanisms in
T. brucei. Tel2 was first identified in yeast and has been shown to be essential for telomere length
maintenance. Subsequently, Tel2 homologues have been identified in different organisms including worm,
human, and T. brucei. However, different Tel2 homologues seem to have different functions, including
circadian rhythm regulation, growth control, and telomere maintenance. Recent studies showed that
mammalian and yeast Tel2s regulate the protein stability of PI3-K related kinases (PIKK), which are key
signal transducers in multiple signal transduction pathways involved in DNA damage repair/cell cycle
checkpoint, degradation of mRNA, and gene expression control, explaining the versatility of Tel2
functions.
Because telomeres are important for antigenic variation, we will explore whether tbTel2 plays any role in
telomere length maintenance or regulates the protein stability of T. brucei PIKKs, which in turn, may be
critical for telomere recombination, a major pathway for VSG switching. Inducible tbTel2 RNAi cell lines
have been established and a few T. brucei PIKK homologues will be tagged with epitopes so that their
protein level will be examined after depletion of tbTel2. We will also examine the telomere structure in
tbTel2-depleted cells.
094
FLUVIAL DYNAMICS: EMPIRICALLY-BASED MODELING OF FLOW, SEDIMENT
TRANSPORT & MEANDER EVOLUTION
Vincenzo La Salvia1,2 Naima Cohn1 Pete Clapham1 Ph.D.
1
Department of Biology Geology & Environmental Science, Cleveland State University;
2
Department of Physics, Cleveland State University
This study of fluvial characteristics (e.g. velocities, spatial dimensions, substrate properties) of a
meandering portion of Tinker’s Creek, a major contributory of the Cuyahoga River, was carried out using
in situ field techniques in order to empirically model the hydrologic factors involved with meander
evolution. Through field observations and measurements, mid-depth composite velocities were measured
during a period of typical hydrologic discharge for this particular portion of the fluvial system. Reduction
and analysis of the data approaches three major mechanics of fluvial dynamics: 1 – Flow and its
dependence on substrate geometry, 2 – Sediment transport during bank erosion to bar deposition, and 3 –
Meander evolution in response to hydraulic properties of the fluvial system.
095
EXAMINING THE ROLE OF TALKER-SPECIFIC DETAILS IN THE PERCEPTION OF
WORDS SPOKEN BY FAMOUS TALKERS
Alisa M. Maibauer, B.S., Conor T. McLennan, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
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42
Previous work demonstrates that talker-specific details tend to affect language perception relatively late in
processing. One possible explanation for this time-course effect may be that the listeners in the previous
study were presented with unfamiliar talkers. Under conditions where one has been repeatedly exposed to
a talker, as is typically the case with famous people, talker-specific details may affect perceptual
processing relatively early. The present research seeks to explore the potential for relatively early talker
effects in the perception of words spoken by famous talkers in both a delayed- and speeded-shadowing
task. Words will be presented using a long-term repetition priming paradigm, and half of the words will be
spoken by Barack Obama and half will be spoken by Hillary Clinton during both the prime and target
blocks. If talker-specific details of words spoken by famous talkers affect processing relatively early, then
reaction times in the target block of the speeded shadowing task should be longer when the same word is
spoken by a different talker in the prime block relative to when the same word is spoken by the same
talker in both the prime and target blocks.
096 RECORDS OF LAND-USE IMPACTS ON BASS LAKE, OHIO USING PALEOLIMNOLOGY
AND REMOTE SENSING Christina M. Znidarsic, B.S., Michelle Canatsey, B.S., Julie A. Wolin, Ph.D.
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
A paleolimnological investigation of recent sediments was conducted on Bass Lake, Geauga County, Ohio
to assess anthropogenic impacts since settlement and remote sensing of aerial images was used to quantify
changes in surrounding land-use pressures since the 1930's. Bass Lake is a recent acquisition of the
Geauga Park District. The Bass Lake Preserve is comprised of the 65 hectare lake and approximately 245
hectares of surrounding land. Approximately 90 percent of the current shoreline is reforested or has
extensive marsh vegetation. A 152 cm sediment core was taken in September 2006 and sub-sectioned at 1
cm intervals. The upper 100 cm were sub-sampled and analyzed for Pb210. Loss-on-ignition (LOI) analysis
was conducted on all samples to determine organic carbon content. Select intervals were analyzed for
fossil diatom assemblages based on changes in carbon content. Correspondence analysis was conducted to
determine major changes in diatom assemblages, and changes in diatom-inferred total phosphorous
concentrations were calculated from existing nutrient-optima data sets. Written historical records were
collected to determine potential human impacts and compared with LOI carbon, diatom assemblage data,
and GIS analysis of 20th century land-use changes. Evidence of early damming and dredging with recent
eutrophication from development is seen in the carbon and diatom record. An initial increase in dry
density occurs around 1900 and sedimentation increases to > 0.3 g cm-2 yr-1 after 1920. Diatom data
show an assemblage shift from low-pH, low-nutrient species to higher-pH, higher-nutrient species. GIS
results show a transition from heavy agricultural use in the watershed during the 1930's. Reforestation
occurs during the 1960's and existing vegetation buffers may remediate impact of increased development
that has occurred over the past decade.
097
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN IMPERVIOUS SURFACES, NUTRIENT AVAILABILITY, AND
NUTRIENT RETENTION IN CLEVELAND METROPARK WETLANDS
Michelle R. Canatsey, B.S. and Julie A. Wolin, Ph.D.
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Impervious surfaces in a watershed increase surface runoff when there is precipitation. This surface runoff
can wash large amounts of nutrients from lawn and agricultural fertilizers, soil, and other sources into
streams and other bodies of water. Wetlands can serve as sinks for nutrients in a watershed; therefore
increased nutrient loads from surface runoff may highly affect nutrient availability and retention in
wetlands. I hypothesize that nutrient availability in a wetland will be positively correlated with the amount
of impervious surface in the watershed of that wetland. Twelve Cleveland Metropark wetlands of different
surrounding land use will be studied to test this hypothesis. The amount of impervious surface in the
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43
wetlands’ watersheds will be determined using remote sensing imagery. Total nitrogen, phosphorus, and
carbon content will be measured in water and soil samples from the wetlands to determine nutrient
availability and nutrient retention. Plant nutrient uptake during the growing season is also related to
nutrient availability. My second hypothesis is that plants in wetlands with higher nutrient concentrations in
the soil and water will have higher nutrient uptake than plants in wetlands with lower nutrient
concentrations. Cattails in the wetlands will be collected at the beginning and end of the growing season
and analyzed for nutrient content of their above- and below-ground tissues to determine plant nutrient
uptake. Some studies have used mesocosms that mimic urbanized wetlands to investigate influences on
plant nutrient uptake and nutrient availability, but very few studies have used wetlands in actual urban
areas to determine the impacts of impervious surfaces on plant nutrient uptake and nutrient availability.
This research will demonstrate how nutrient availability and nutrient retention differ between wetlands in
urbanized areas with high amounts of impervious surfaces and wetlands in areas with low amounts of
impervious surfaces.
098
ACROSS THE UNIVERSE
David S. McKinney, Joseph M. Solic, Victor D. Perhay
Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics Cleveland State University
There are extensive calculations that need to be carried out before sending a craft of any sort across the
solar system. Some of the most important parameters include velocity, distance, and trajectory. The
Earth’s gravity can be used to slingshot a spacecraft to its intended destination. The parameters of this
technique can be calculated easily with formulas that have already been developed. Our calculations for a
circular orbit around the earth at a distance of 400 km show a velocity of 31,570 m/s and a period of
79.616 s for the International Space Station (ISS). The ISS has a mass of 400,000 kg and is traveling at
this speed yielding a kinetic energy of 1.993E14 J. The calculations are a little more involved for an
elliptical orbit, considering the changing velocity. The Orion’s velocity at a perigee altitude of 204 km was
50,871 m/s and at an apogee altitude of 400 km the velocity was 25,940 m/s. The period for the Orion was
52.23 s. During a circular orbit the apogee altitude is equivalent to the perigee altitude. When the
calculations are carried out for the Orion at a height of 204 km the velocity is 44,200 m/s with an orbital
period of 28.997 s. The Orion’s kinetic energy at this velocity is 5.838*10^33 J. If the calculations are
carried out for a height of 400 km the Orion’s velocity is 31,570 m/s with a period of 79.616 s. The kinetic
energy at this velocity is 2.978*10^33 J.
099
AN INNOVATIVE DIELECTRIC METHOD DETERMINED THE CRYSTALLINE AND
AMORPHOUS CONTENT IN PHARMACEUTICALS
Manik Pavan Maheswaram, BSPS 1, Alan Riga PhD1, 2 and Kenneth Alexander PhD2
1
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
2
Division of Industrial Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of
Toledo
Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Dielectric Analysis (DEA) can easily differentiate
morphological and thermodynamic transitions in drugs as well as their crystalline-amorphous content. The
DSC crystalline content is based on the melting endotherm of the drug and its ability to recrystallize
exothermically. The content is determined from a number of heat and cooling cycles at a constant heating
rate to evaluate the drugs ability to recrystallize. The DEA electrical conductivity analysis clearly and
repeatable differentiates the solid crystalline low conductivity level and the high conductivity amorphous
liquid. The DSC sets the transition range and the DEA conductivity establishes the content. DSC is set at a
standard 10oC/min heating rate-cooling rate, in an nitrogen atmosphere with a standard aluminum pan and
lid. The DEA is set at a standard 10oC/min, in a nitrogen atmosphere with a gold ceramic interdigitated
electrode. Evaluated were from US Pharmacopoeia standard and model commercial drugs.
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44
The DSC results are compared to the DEA conductivity amorphous and crystalline content identified
below the DSC melting temperature for the drugs tested. To establish a structure property relationship
where the crystalline character is recorded by PXRD and compared to the content by DEA and DSC. The
Active Pharmacy Ingredients (APIs) evaluated included Acetanilide, Acetophenitidine, Sulfapyradine, and
Caffeine. There was a fair-good agreement between the DSC crystalline melting and recrystallization and
the solid state DEA conductivity method. The amorphous and crystalline content of the APIs is clearly and
repeatedly determined by DSC or DEA cyclic heating and cooling of the drug. The transition from
crystalline solid to liquid amorphous drug was accompanied by a conductivity change from ca. 10-1 to 107
pS/cm. Reheating the sample API produced a decrease in crystalline content resulting in a 90% decrease
for caffeine and an 18 % decrease for acetanilide.
100
THE IMPACT OF STATE MINDFULNESS ON EGO-SALIENCE AND SELF-CONTROL
Robert J. Goodman, B.A. & Ernest S. Park, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
Convergent findings among several distinct lines of research have revealed that mindfulness, an open and
receptive form of present-centered awareness, is positively associated with numerous indices of physical,
psychological, and social well-being. Much of this research has focused on dispositional mindfulness, the
degree to which one enters into mindful states over time. However, state mindfulness, the degree to which
one is mindful at a specific point in time, has been left relatively unexplored. Current theories suggest that
many beneficial effects attributable to mindfulness are due to changes in the way one relates to thoughts
about the self. In this study we hypothesized that heightened state mindfulness would reduce the salience
of self-relevant concepts. Further, we hypothesized that this difference in cognitions would alter how
people deal with self-threatening information and lead to advantages in the ability to exert volitional
control over subsequent behaviors. To test these hypotheses, participants were told we were measuring
their personality traits to make predictions about their “sociability.” First, all participants (n=104)
completed a short battery of self-report measures. Next, half of the participants (n=52) underwent a 15minute state mindfulness induction, while half (n=52) were instructed to allow their mind to wander.
Immediately afterward, two scales sensitive to state mindfulness were administered, followed by a lexical
decision task designed to assess the salience of previously rated self-descriptive words. Each participant
was then given a report that contained negative feedback about the future of his or her social life. Finally,
participants completed a dichotic listening task designed to assess self-regulatory ability and a self-report
measure sensitive to state affect. Between subject analyses indicate that the mindfulness manipulation
significantly reduced the salience of self-relevant cognitions. Additionally, within-subject analyses
demonstrate that the degree of this change significantly predicts improvement in self-regulation for
participants in the mindfulness condition.
101
THE ROLE OF RED-BACK SALAMANDERS IN TERRESTRIAL FOOD WEBS
Nick Mikash and B.M. Walton.
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
As a ubiquitous predator among the temperate forests of eastern North America, the red-back salamander
(Plethodon cinereus) is thought to play an important role within forest-floor food webs. However,
previous studies have shown a variety of top-down (predator-arbitrated) effects including deceleration,
acceleration, or no net effect on leaf litter decomposition rates and nutrient cycling. Confounding variables
that may have led to such conflicting results include seasonal variation, variation in prey species
composition, and climatic heterogeneity. In a long term field experiment we are testing several hypotheses
that have arisen regarding the role of P. cinereus. Field plots were established to determine the effects of
several experimental treatments on leaf litter decomposition rate and invertebrate community composition:
Removal of all predators, Removal of P. cinereus, Removal of centipedes (functional analog to P.
cinereus), No removal (Control). The goal of this study is to test the hypothesis that predator removal will
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45
have an effect on leaf litter decomposition rates. Leaf litter decomposition rates were assessed with leaf
packs placed in the field plots and collected at monthly intervals. Invertebrate communities were sampled
from the leaf packs via Berlese extraction. Sampling was conducted from June to October of 2005 and
from June to November of 2006. Data from 2005/2006 salamander and centipede removal plots indicate
increased decomposition rates compared to control plots. Plots where all predators were removed however
indicate depressed decomposition rates. We hypothesize that by removing all predators, detritivore
population size increases, and in turn competition increases among detritivores for fungal resources. As a
result fungi are over-grazed, inhibiting the rate of decomposition. We also hypothesize that by removing a
single predator from a site, the remaining predators are released from intraguild competition allowing
them to consume larger numbers of detritivores. Reductions in detritivore population size would allow
increased fungal growth, in turn facilitating decomposition rate.
102
PERCEPTIONS OF RISK AMONG TRAUMA SURVIVORS WITH OR WITHOUT PTSD
Richard J. Lawrence, Lisa Stines Doane, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
Most individuals will experience a traumatic event at some point in their lifetime, and a small but
significant number of trauma survivors develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the aftermath of a
trauma (e.g., Kessler et al., 1995). PTSD is an anxiety disorder involving reoccurring thoughts and images,
hypervigilance, and avoidance of reminders of the event (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental
Disorders-IV, American Psychiatric Association, 1994). Many previous studies have shown a correlation
between surviving traumatic events and the engagement in risky behaviors (e.g. drug use, alcohol
consumption, and unsafe sexual behaviors) due to possible desensitization or decreased risk perceptions
(e.g. Smith, Davis, & Fricker-Elhal, 2004). The previous studies on risk taking and experiencing a
traumatic event have predominantly only assessed PTSD sufferers, and have not utilized a trauma-exposed
but no PTSD control group. Thus, it is unclear whether the trauma exposure itself, or PTSD, is actually
associated with high-risk behaviors. The current study will examine perceptions of objectively high risk
behaviors in trauma survivors with and without PTSD. We expect that trauma survivors with PTSD will
report higher perceived benefits and lower risk associated with objectively high risk behaviors than trauma
survivors without PTSD. Participants will complete a battery of self report instruments including measures
of cognitive appraisals of risky behaviors, trauma history, PTSD, and participation in risky behavior.
Correlation and regression will be used to examine relationships between risk perceptions and traumatic
experiences and symptomology. The findings could have implications for current PTSD treatments,
preventing revictimization, and reforming health education for prevention of risky behaviors.
103
THE TRAUMATIC EVENTS INVENTORY: A PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION OF A NEW
PTSD QUESTIONNAIRE
Kirk R. Bryant, B.A., Amir M. Poreh, Ph.D., Scott Magnuson, B.A, Dan Pastel, B.A., Kelly Martinein,
B.A., Ashlay Miller, B.A.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
The purpose of this study was to assess the preliminary psychometrics of the Traumatic Events Inventory
(TEI), a new Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) scale designed to identify individuals who are
malingering. In addition to completing the TEI, a preliminary random sample of 60 Midwestern college
students and members of the community were instructed to complete the Trail Making Test (TMT), the
Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVL), Digit Span, and Digit Symbol test. The age range was 18 to
64 years old; with a mean of 27.33 (SD = 13.14), and the mean years of education was 14.31 (SD = 2.00).
The participants were instructed to take the tests normally and take them a second time while feigning
PTSD. Before they were asked to feign PTSD, they watched an informative video about PTSD and were
asked to read a hypothetical situation asking them to imagine that they were in a car accident and must
respond to items on the following tests as if they had PTSD in order to receive financial compensation.
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46
Preliminary results show significant correlations between the TEI and various malingering indices of the
neuropsychological measures, including the Reliable Digit Span (RDS), TMT completion time, TMT ratio
scores, and the dual choice task on the RAVLT. The Results also indicate that the TEI has high internal
consistency. The TEI full-scale internal consistencies for Total before (α = .94), Total after (α = .92), and
Total change (.97) were high, so were the internal consistencies of the TEI sub-scales.
The results of this study provide an indication of the TEI’s potential ability to distinguish malingerers from
those with genuine PTSD.
104
SURVIVOR PERCEPTIONS OF REACTIONS RECEIVED AS A MEDIATOR FOR RISKY
SEXUAL BEHAVIOR
Caitlin A. Martin, Lisa Stines Doane, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
Female survivors of trauma have been found to be more likely to participate in high risk sexual behavior
than those who have not had exposure to previous trauma (Hillis et al., 2001; Parillo et al., 2001;
Thompson et al., 1997). When women disclose their trauma to others, reactions that are perceived as
negative may have far-reaching consequences on women’s relationships, particularly intimate sexual
relationships (Ahrens et al., 2007). The purpose of this current study is to examine the impact of negative
reactions on the relationship between trauma history and risky sexual behavior. Female undergraduate
students and women from the community will be recruited to participate in the study. Measures will
include assessments of trauma history, disclosures of primary trauma, perceived reactions to the
disclosure, and current engagement in high risk sexual behaviors. We will test for mediation following
Cohen's (1993) guidelines. We expect to find that negative reactions to disclosure will be a mediator for
trauma and high risk sexual behavior. Results of this study may have broad implications for trauma
survivors and public health. By understanding the factors that result in high risky sexual behaviors in
trauma survivors, unwanted pregnancy, HIV, and further emotional suffering can be lessened and
measures can be made to interrupt mediators. Risky sexual behavior can have lifelong consequences to
trauma survivors that are irreversible, yet preventable.
105
POVERTY AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH
Na’Tasha M. Evans and Juanita L. Adams
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
Adolescence is a time of transition in many countries dealing with different youth. It is a transition for
adult responsibility. Some youth living in poorer countries have adults who have responsibilities that are
put on hold due to poverty change by taking on longer work hours at a low pay rate. This is a time of
change for the youth and their families. Adolescents are being affected by poverty which influences
mental health. Poverty identify those who live in it, such as ‘the poor’ (pg. 24), also those who are living
in economic hardship, or neighborhood disadvantages. There are statistics that indicate that the economic
distance between the worlds rich and poor countries have increased. Poverty has put rapid effects on
behavior and emotions which has impacted metal health among lower income groups. Children and
adolescents are mostly affected because they are represented among the poor. Statistics once again
indicates adolescents who are mostly black, Latino, and those who live in single-parent families, are more
likely to live in poverty, by their income. Studies have shown that poverty may have direct effects on
adolescent’s mental health. Many adolescents are aware of economic problems in their families and
environment. With adolescents knowing that their families are having financial difficulties due to poverty
has become a very big impact on mental health and behavior. There are also indirect effects of poverty on
adolescent’s mental health through altered parenting. Poverty and economic distress also has an effect on
parents causing parents to inconsistent discipline, a decrease in parental monitoring, and parent adolescent
conflict. Around the world, children and adolescents are represented among the poor. Nurses and
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47
psychiatrist should remain active in their work fields to reduce mental health issues dealing with
adolescents living in poverty.
106
PCH2 LINKAGE TO YEAST MEIOTIC RECOMBINATION EVENTS
Aekam Barot, M.Sc., G. Valentin Börner, Ph.D.
Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Disease, Department of Biological, Geological and
Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Defects in crossover formation during meiosis I cause chromosome missegregation, resulting in birth
defects and cancer. Here, long-range interdependence of recombination events are demonstrated for the
widely conserved yeast protein Pch2. During WT meiosis, Pch2 specifies localization to future crossover
sites of interhomolog determinant proteins Hop1 and Red1, resulting in assembly of specialized axis
domains. Pch2 is not required for crossover formation, yet plays key roles in chromosome-wide crossover
distribution: First, Pch2 mediates crossover interference. Second, Pch2 assures crossing over when
programmed DSBs are reduced. DSB reduction is tolerated in WT, yet results in catastrophic chromosome
missegregation in pch2D, suggesting a role for Pch2 in enhancing crossover formation under these
conditions. Suppression of pch2D mutant defects in crossover interference or crossover homeostasis by
temperature shifts in opposite directions suggests independent contributions of two pathways to crossover
control. We propose a model in which Pch2, via its axis association, stabilizes assembly of large crossover
control modules along meiotic chromosomes, coordinately ensuring minimum levels and maximum
spacing for crossovers. We further demonstrate that crossover homeostasis is critical for meiotic
chromosome segregation, while interference appears dispensable.
107
CONFORMATIONAL SIGNATURE OF EXTRACELLULAR LOOP 2 OF ANGIOTENSIN II
TYPE 1 RECEPTOR INDUCED BY AGONIST AND ANTAGONIST BINDING
Hamiyet Unal1,2 and Sadashiva S. Karnik1,2
1
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University,
2
Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic
Insights emerging on GPCR activation mechanism from new GPCR structures suggest an important role
for extracellular loop 2 (ECL2) in addition to the conformational change involving the movements of
transmembrane domains upon ligand binding. In this study, we apply the reporter-cysteine accessibility
method (RCAM) to ECL2 of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) to probe the solvent accessibility
of the residues in this loop. 20 single cysteine mutants of AT1R were generated by replacing residues
Ile172 through Pro192 in the ECL2 with cysteine and screened for accessibility to MTSEA-biotin in the
presence and absence of agonist angiotensin II and antagonist losartan. We identified two regions on the
ECL2 of the AT1R, including residues Glu173-Thr178 and Glu185-Ser189 as highly accessible to the
MTSEA-biotin in the absence of any ligand. The region including residues Val179-Tyr184 which harbors
the conserved disulfide bond is buried. Accessibility maps in the presence of either angiotensin II or
losartan have shown different MTSEA-Biotin labeling patterns for ECL2 indicating that ligand binding to
the AT1R resulted in a ligand-induced conformational rearrangement of ECL2 residues.
108
DIELECTRIC AND CALOMETRIC PROPERTIES
CONTAINING DRUGS AND EXCIPIENTS: Part II
OF
SULFUR
AND
NITROGEN
Irena Sobkiv, Vadim Kutsar, Brigid Patton, Yuriy Kutsar, M. P. Maheswaram, BSPS, and Alan Riga,
PhD
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
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48
Differential Scanning Calorimetry, DSC, and Dielectric Analysis, DEA (scanning and isothermal DEA),
differentiate drug melting, excimer formation and amorphous crystalline content. In order to establish a
DEA/DSC structure property relationship a series of sulfur and nitrogen containing drugs and excipients
were evaluated. The stability of the standard and model drugs are based on a comparison of their thermal
properties at widely varying experimental conditions. A stable crystalline drug has an obvious DSC
melting endotherm followed by a stable baseline. An unstable crystalline drug melts and immediately
degrades as viewed by a shifting melt endotherm. The drugs evaluated in this study include caffeine,
sulfapyradine, and sulfanilide. A number of commercial drugs, for example, Lidocaine.HCl, were
evaluated by DSC/scanning and isothermal DEA. These novel thermal analytical techniques distinguish
amorphous and crystalline content as well as create electrical signatures that reveal low levels of moisture,
solvent and solid-solid transitions. The isothermal DEA, a new venture in electrical evaluation, discovered
multiple drugs with repeatable tan delta values (=loss factor/permittivity). The resulting data suggests new
paths for drug synthesis and characterization.
109
IDENTIFICATION OF BIOMARKERS FOR OVARIAN CANCER
Chun Zeng, Lin Zhang and Aimin Zhou
Clinical Chemistry Program, Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
Ovarian cancer has the highest mortality of all cancers associated with the female reproductive system.
This is mainly due to the fact that most patients with ovarian cancer are diagnosed at an advanced stage
because of a lack of early symptoms and predicative biomarkers for early detection. Statistical results
indicate that if ovarian cancer is diagnosed in the early stages without metastasizing outside the ovary,
there is a 94% 5-year survival rate and some patients even can be completely cured with currently
available therapy. Therefore, early diagnosis presents the best hope for improving the survival of ovarian
cancer patients. In recent years proteomic identification of biomarkers for ovarian cancer in human serum
and plasma has yielded interesting results. However, variability and complexity due to uncharacterized
genetic and environmental heterogeneity among humans, as well as practical difficulties in obtaining
statistical numbers of clinical specimens, severely hamper the discovery process and limit progress. We
recently developed a mouse model to identify tumor markers for ovarian cancer. Serum proteomic analysis
of the xenografted ovarian cancer mice was performed. Interestingly we found that the level of several
inflammatory gene products such as Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, Seru amyloid p-component and
Haptoglobin, was gradually increased along with the growth of tumor. The observation was further
confirmed by Western blot analysis. Thus, our study provides a new tool to identify potential candidates
for ovarian cancer.
110
THE ALLOCATION OF BIOMASS TO SEXUAL REPRODUCTION AND CLONAL GROWTH
IN THE WETLAND PLANT PENTHORUM SEDOIDES: THE EFFECT OF PLANT SIZE
Ann M. Nicholls, B.S., Julie A. Wolin, Ph.D, Tarun K. Mal, Ph.D (In Memoriam)
Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Clonal plants such as Penthorum sedoides are able to reproduce both through the production of flowers,
fruits and seeds (sexual reproduction) and by generating stolons that may give rise to potentially
physiologically independent ramets (clonal growth). Research has shown that plants grown in different
habitats or varying environments may exhibit different patterns of allocation to reproduction, possibly as
an adaptation to those environments. There is debate as to whether such differences in allocation between
environments may not simply be due to size differences of the plants between those environments rather
an adaptive partitioning of resources. I investigated this question using data from 144 Penthorum sedoides
plants, half of which were grown in nutrient enriched environments while the others half served as
controls. Biomass data from the reproductive and non-reproductive plant parts were analyzed using
regression analysis and analysis of covariance to look at potential size dependence of both clonal and
sexual reproduction and differences in the pattern of allocation between fertilized plants and the controls.
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49
The expectation that reproductive allocation should vary with a plant’s size was not supported by my
results since allocation to fruit mass (fruit mass/ vegetative mass) was not dependent on plant size,
although larger plants did tend to produce more absolute fruit mass than smaller plants. Since fertilized
plants tended to be larger, the treated plants produced significantly more total fruit mass; however, in the
regression of allocation to fruits on vegetative mass, the treatment and control plants had significantly
different intercepts, which implies that allocation of resources to sexual reproduction is directly affected
by the presence of nutrients rather than simply being a function of plant size. Allocation to clonal growth
decreased with plant size but allocation to clonal reproduction differed significantly between treatment
groups even when this size difference was taken into account.
111
RAP1 IS ESSENTIAL FOR SILENCING TELOMERIC VARIANT SURFACE GLYCOPROTEIN
GENES IN TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI
Xiaofeng Yang, Ph.D. and Bibo Li, Ph.D.*
Department of Biological, Geological & Environmental Sciences, College of Science, Cleveland State
University
*Corresponding Author
Trypanosoma brucei is a protozoan parasite that causes African trypanosomiasis. In its mammalian host,
bloodstream form T. brucei periodically switches its surface antigen, Variant Surface Glycoprotein (VSG),
to evade host immune attack. To maximize VSG switching efficiency, T. brucei expresses VSG genes in a
strictly monoallelic fashion from ~20 nearly identical VSG expression sites (ESs) located at subtelomeric
regions. VSG is the last gene in any ES, immediately adjacent to the telomere. At any time, only one ES
promoter (40–60 kb upstream of VSG) is fully active, resulting in a single VSG gene being transcribed.
Interestingly, ‘silent’ ES promoters are weakly active, but transcription elongation along ESs is quickly
attenuated to avoid transcription of downstream VSGs. However, it was unclear how this is achieved.
Telomere position effect (TPE), an epigenetic phenomenon, has been proposed to play a critical role in
VSG regulation, yet no telomeric protein has been identified whose disruption led to VSG derepression.
We have identified tbRAP1 as an intrinsic component of the T. brucei telomere complex and a major
regulator for silencing VSG expression sites. Knockdown of tbRAP1 led to derepression of all VSGs in
silent ESs but not VSGs located elsewhere. Presumably removal of tbRAP1 allowed full transcription
elongation to the end of ‘silent’ ESs and resulted in multiple VSGs being transcribed. TbRAP1 depletion
resulted in stronger derepression of genes located within 10 kb from telomeres than genes located further
upstream. This graduated silencing pattern indicated, for the first time, that telomere integrity plays a key
role in tbRAP1-dependent silencing and VSG regulation. To understand the underlying mechanism for
tbRAP1-dependent VSG silencing, we purified the tbRAP1 protein complex and identified many protein
components by Mass Spectrometry analysis. Studying the functions of tbRAP1-interacting proteins will
help us to better understand the regulation of VSG silencing.
112
THE ROLE OF ELONGATION FACTOR 1-ALPHA IN TGFb-MEDIATED TRANSLATIONAL
REGULATION OF SILENCED EMT-INDUCER mRNA.
George Hussey1,2, Arindam Chaudury1,2, Phil Howe, Ph.D.1,2
1
Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
2
Department of Cancer Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic
The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), in which cells undergo a developmental conversion from
a polarized, epithelial phenotype to a highly motile mesenchymal-like state, has emerged as a fundamental
process during embryonic development which can also be reactivated in the progression of carcinoma.
Numerous cytokines and autocrine factors, including transforming growth factor-beta (TGFb, have been
implicated in contributing to EMT through both transcriptional and post-transcriptional processes. Our
recent studies have implicated a role for the cytoplasmic adaptor disabled-2 (Dab2) in mediating TGFbinduced EMT. We have obtained preliminary data from two cell models exhibiting TGFb-mediated EMT,
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50
mouse mammary epithelial (MME) and murine epithelial cells (Eph4) transfected with oncogenic Ras
(EpRas), demonstrating that TGFb-mediated induction of disabled-2 (Dab2) and Interleukin-like-EMT
inducer (ILEI) are post-transcriptionally regulated through a mechanism involving transcript-specific
translational control. Furthermore, we have identified a 33 nucleotide (nt) regulatory element in the Dab2
3’-untranslated region (3’-UTR), which mediates translational silencing of Dab2 mRNA. Using this 33nt
element as an RNA affinity ligand, we have identified heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein E1
(hnRNP-E1) and eukaryotic elongation factor-1 A1 (EF1A1) as two proteins that bind to this element.
Preliminary data suggests that under basal conditions in epithelial cells, hnRNP-E1 and EF1A1 bind to the
33nt element in the 3’-UTRs of both Dab2 and ILEI, and that treatment with TGFb causes a
phosphorylation dependent dissociation of hnRNP-E1 from the Dab2 3’-UTR complex and translational
silencing to be relieved. To substantiate the functional relevance of EF1A1 in the TGFb-mediated
translational regulation of Dab2 and ILEI, we performed a series of binding assays to identify the EF1A1
domain(s), required for complex assembly and binding to the 3’-UTR cis.element. These studies suggest
that binding of EF1A1 to the 3’-UTR complex may confer an abrogation of its canonical function during
translation elongation.
113
BULLIES TO BUDDIES: A VICTIM EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE
Kathy McNamara, Ph.D.1, Karen McKelvey, Ed.S.2, & Emily Winders, M.A.3
1, 3
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
2
PSI Associates
This poster describes a bullying intervention that focuses on victims, rather than the more common focus
on bullies, bystanders, or school culture. Bullies to Buddies (B2B) teaches victims to react more
effectively, without anger and defensiveness. They are encouraged to treat bullies as friends and avoid
reporting them or fighting back, since those strategies often result in escalated bullying. A 3-week B2B
training of 142 students in 11 schools was evaluated for effectiveness in reducing bullying and
victimization, changing victims’ coping strategies, and changing students’ beliefs about appropriate
responses to bullying. Results showed that B2B can reduce negative outcomes and change beliefs about
appropriate coping techniques, although actual changes in coping behaviors were minimal.
Recommendations for enhancing the strength of the intervention will be discussed.
114
ENHANCED MECHANICAL AND CALORIMETERIC TESTS FOR EVALUATING DRUG
DISINTEGRATION OF FORMULATED TABLETS AND CAPSULES
V. Badipatla, BSPS[1] I. Perera, PhD [1], M.Maheswaram, BSPS [1], A.Riga, PhD, [1, 2] and K.S. Alexander,
PhD [2]
[1]
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
[2]
Division of Industrial Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of
Toledo
Thermal Mechanical Analysis (TMA) has been developed to measure the rate and initial time of drug
disintegration. The TMA monitors the physical dimension of the formulated drug as a function of time,
temperature, applied stress and pH. The results of this new test will meet USP specifications. This method
can be used to measure the expansion, or swelling of the formulated tablet. It can also monitor the
shrinkage or drug disintegration in a specified fluid. The focus of this study is an efficient and precise
method to measure the drug delivery of solid dose tablets and capsules. The precision of the method along
with the effect of pH and temperature on the rate of delivery was determined. The drugs studied were
Femhrt and Aspirin tablets as well as Amoxicillin Capsules.
Drug delivery in a specific solution was measured by UV Analysis for the active pharmaceutical
ingredient. Temperature decreased the disintegration time and increased the rate (mm/min). Differential
Scanning Calorimetry is in development to measure drug disintegration by its Heat of Solution The
Amoxicillin 500 mg capsule disintegrated by first absorbing the solvent water and softened. Then the 2nd
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51
step was the rounded ends collapsed allowing the drug to be released to the solution. The increased
temperature shortened the capsule dissolving time.. Tablets or capsules disintegrate and release the drug
while it structurally is falling apart. Some tablets swell and allow the active ingredient to be released.
Some tablets swell and then disintegrate either rapidly over a period of time. This TMA method
distinguished clearly the orally disintegrating drug (Olanzapine® in 18 seconds), the drug delivery to the
stomach, e.g. Femhrt® (1-20 minutes) and those drugs that are bound for the intestines (Ritalin® in >39
minutes and Abilify® >60minutes)
115
PRE-SERVICE TEACHERS’ UNDERSTANDING OF RTI AND EXPANDED SCHOOL
PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
Emily F. Winders, M.A. (Kathleen McNamara, Ph.D.)
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
The purpose of this project is to assess the awareness, knowledge, and beliefs of pre-service teachers about
school psychology and the Response to Intervention (RTI) model. A survey was administered to 193
general education, pre-service teachers at four universities in the state of Ohio. The results of this survey
have important implications for teacher preparation programs and enhancing collaboration between
educational professionals.
116
HOMEOSTATIC REGULATION OF INTERLEUKIN-4-MEDIATED CELL SIGNALING
Rikhia Chakraborty1M.S, Pankaj Sharma1 PhD, Booki Min2 D.V.M., PhD, Michel L. Tremblay3 PhD,
Tsukasa Kawahara4 PhD, J. David Lambeth4 PhD and S. Jaharul Haque1 PhD
1
Department of Cancer Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic;
Department of Immunology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic;
3
McGill Cancer Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada;
4
Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University Medical School, Atlanta, GA
2
Cytokines are intracellular messengers that activate multiple signaling pathways and regulate cell survival,
differentiation, migration, apoptosis and immune responses. We are investigating the homeostatic control
of cytokine-mediated cell signaling using IL-4 as a model cytokine. Protein tyrosine phosphorylation is
essential for cytokine-dependent signal transduction through the Jak-Stat and other pathways. Therefore,
protein tyrosine dephosphorylation is a key mechanism providing the negative regulation of cytokine
signaling. Here, we show, for the first time, that immediately following ligand-dependent activation, IL-4
receptor induces an intracellular calcium flux via IRS-PI3K-PLC-γ pathway which, in turn, induces PKCdependent activation of NAD(P)H oxidase (NOX)5 that generates reactive oxygen species (ROS)
including superoxide and H2O2. IL-4 also induces NOX1-mediated ROS production via IRS-PI3K-RAC1
pathway. Importantly, IL-4-generated ROS promote IL-4 receptor activation by oxidatively inactivating
the protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B that physically associates with and deactivates IL-4 receptor. In
addition, we show that anti-oxidative enzyme, peroxiredoxin (Prx) II physically interacts with IL-4
receptor and becomes oxidized by IL-4-generated ROS, thereby decreasing amounts of IL-4-generated
ROS and compromising ROS-mediated amplification of IL-4 signaling. Cytokine-activated Jak-Stat
pathway is believed to operate from cell surface to the nucleus via protein-protein interactions without
involving any second messengers. Here, we demonstrate a role for second messengers (ROS) in the
amplification of Jak-Stat signal transduction in IL-4-stimulated cells. Further, our data suggest that redox
status of cells controls the magnitude of IL-4 receptor activation and signal transduction.
[A part of this work has been published: Sharma P and Chakraborty R, et al., Immunity 29: 551-564,
2008. This work was supported by grants R01 GM060533 and R01 CA095006 from the National Institutes
of Health to SJH.]
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52
117
USING CURRICULUM-BASED MEASUREMENT TO PREDICT PERFORMANCE ON THE
OHIO ACHIEVEMENT TEST
Rachel Ryan, M.A. & Ellen Petrick, M.A. (Kathleen McNamara, Ph.D.)
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
Oral reading fluency (ORF) is a form of curriculum-based measurement (CBM) that serves as a powerful
indicator of overall reading skill development, particularly comprehension (Shapiro, Keller, Lutz, Santoro,
& Hintze, 2006). Previous research from several states has demonstrated that CBM-ORF has strong
predictive validity for performance on statewide achievement tests (McGlinchey & Hixson, 2004; Stage &
Jacobsen, 2001; Powell-Smith, 2004). CBM-ORF can be used to establish cut-scores that correlate with
students’ probability for success on the state-wide testing. This study analyzed the predictive relationship
between fall oral reading fluency scores and Spring OAT scores in a sample of third and fourth grade
students from two school districts in Northeastern Ohio. Reading fluency scores from the fall
benchmarking of the 2007-2008 school year, measured in words correct per minute, were compared with
scores on the reading portion of the OAT. CBM scores were first compared to OAT scores to determine
the strength of the relationship between the two variables. Then CBM scores at the 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th,
and 90th percentiles were used to establish ranges of oral reading fluency. These CBM ranges were then
used to predict the probability of students passing or failing the OAT. The results of this study suggest that
CBM-ORF has moderate predictive validity for success on statewide achievement testing. Therefore,
students’ performance on district screening can be used to assess their probability of passing the statewide
achievement test. These statistics can help educators identify in the fall which students are at-risk for
failing so that they may provide interventions to increase their probability for success in the spring.
118
URBANIZATION AND WETLAND SOIL PHOSPHORUS RETENTION IN THE CUYAHOGA
RIVER WATERSHED.
Kevin H. Tloczynski, B.S.E. and Julie A. Wolin, Ph.D.
Department of Biological, Geological, & Environmental Sciences; Cleveland State University
Phosphorus concentrations in the Cuyahoga River have increased since 1995 though mechanisms behind
this are not well understood. Wetland phosphorus retention is affected by urbanization via increased
nutrient loads, impervious surfaces, habitat degradation and wetland loss. Wetland soil phosphorus
retention is finite. High phosphorus inputs and wetland loss may alter the capacity of urban wetland soils
to retain phosphorus. We sampled 12 wetlands in the Cuyahoga watershed across varying levels of
urbanization to determine the phosphorus retention capacity of their soils. Six cores were obtained from
spatially distributed random sites in each wetland. Soils were tested for phosphorus sorption and
desorption, soil moisture, and loss-on-ignition. Urbanization was quantified using % impervious surface in
a 250m buffer around each wetland as determined from the 2001 National Land Cover Database in
ArcGIS. Results show a significant decrease in PO4 sorption in wetland soils with decreased saturation,
and impervious surface cover. Wetland soil moisture showed a significant decline with increasing
urbanization. Results indicate that wetlands in urban areas retain less PO4 than wetlands in more rural
regions of the Cuyahoga watershed, and that urbanization most likely has resulted in a decrease in wetland
soil phosphorus retention.
119
CRYSTALLIZATION OF THE CATALYTIC SUBUNIT OF M. JANNASCHII ASPARTATE
TRANSCARBAMOYLASE WITH THE ANTICANCER DRUG PALA.
Jonathan Allen, Khadidja A. Benmerzouga and Jacqueline Vitali, Ph.D.
Department of Physics, Cleveland State University
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53
ATCase is the enzyme that catalyzes the committed step in pyrimidine biosynthesis, the reaction between
carbamoyl phosphate and aspartate to form carbamoyl aspartate and inorganic phosphate and is an
important site of regulation in many organisms. The catalytic and regulatory chains of this enzyme from
the barophilic and thermophilic archaeon Methanococcus jannaschii have been expressed in E. coli.
During the past summer we purified the catalytic subunit and tried to crystallize it in the presence of the
anticancer drug PALA which is an analog of both its substrates. Obtaining suitable crystals is an essential
first step for carrying out X-ray diffraction to determine the structures of these complexes. Our results of
these crystallizations will be presented. This work gives insight into the mechanism of catalysis by this
important enzyme and helps design drugs against cancer.
120
NEW SOLID STATE PROPERTIES OF PHARMACEUTICALS BY DIELECTRIC AND
CALORIMETRIC ANALYSIS
Alan T. Riga, PhD1,2 and Kenneth S. Alexander PhD 2
1
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
2
College of Pharmacy Practice, University of Toledo
Dielectric Analysis (DEA) by Electrical Conductivity and isothermal DEA differentiates drugs by melting,
solid-solid transitions, solvent desorption, dehydration and amorphous/crystalline content well below the
melt temperature for a number of drugs. New isothermal DEA tan delta properties are revealed by
examining the same drugs in the solid state (20oC below the melt) and (at 5oC above the melt) in the
amorphous state. In order to establish structure-property relationships the United States Pharmacopoeia
(USP) set of melting standard drugs were evaluated by Thermal Analytical techniques and Macrophotography. The USP standards evaluated in this study include Vanillin (melt temperature, Tm, 80.4°C),
Acetanilide (Tm, 114°C), Acetophenitidine (Tm, 135°C), Sulfapyradine (Tm, 191°C) and Caffeine (Tm,
235°C). Other drugs evaluated by DEA/DSC are polymorphic Nifedipine and Tolbutamide
Examination of these drugs by scanning Dielectric Analysis (DEA) and isothermal DEA discovered a
linear electrical conductivity in the pre-melt temperatures through to the melt. The activation energy (Ea)
can be calculated from the slope of plots of log conductivity vs. the reciprocal temperature in Kelvin,
which had a typical correlation coefficient of 0.999. The Ea for charge formation of the drugs below and
above their melting temperature was frequency dependent and was typically 1100 ± 300 J/mole. The Ea
for the pre-melt charge complex for Sulfapyradine was 990 J/mole, for Acetophenitidine 1300 J/mole and
as outlier caffeine 320 J/mole. Other drugs and excipients with known enhanced pre-melt conductivity
behavior include Vanillin, Lidocaine, Acetanilide, Nifenipine and Tolbutamide. It is our observation that
the chemicals studied form charged molecules as complexes or dimers just before melting. We have
measured unique electrical properties of a number of drugs and chemicals e.g. amino acids, carbohydrates,
heterocyclic (anthracene) which have thermally induced dielectric visco-elastic properties as charge
transfer complexes in the solid state.
121
TREATMENT OF VARIOUS CANCER CELL LINES WITH DMAT RESULTS IN CELL
DEATH: A POTENTIAL CURE FOR CANCER
Phong X. Pham1, Daniel Lindner, M.D., Ph.D.2, and Michael Kalafatis, Ph.D1,2,3
1
Cleveland State University, Department of Chemistry
Taussig Cancer Institute, Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research
3
Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute, and The Cleveland Clinic
2
Casein kinase 2 (CK2) is a serine/threonine kinase protein that plays a role in normal cell growth,
apoptosis, and proliferation. Though it is strictly regulated in the cells, CK2 shuttles in and out of the
nucleus and into the cytoplasm in response to the signals and pathways which are to maintain the
intracellular functions. However it has been found in all cancer cells that CK2 levels are deregulated and
highly elevated. Though still unknown what cause the increase of CK2, an increase in the concentration of
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54
the kinase results in inhibition of apoptosis, and the accumulation of unhealthy cells or tumors. As a
consequence, studies of CK2 in cancer cells have led to the development of CK2 inhibitors, and CK2 has
been considered to be a possible target for novel cancer drugs. We used a new CK2 inhibitor, 2dimethylamino-4,5,6,7-tetrabromo-1H-benzimidazole (DMAT), and study its effect on various cancer cell
lines. The cancer cell lines we used were U87 cells (glioblastoma cancer cells), PC3 cells (prostate cancer
cells), A549 (lung cancer cells), and HeLa cells (cervical cancer cells). Our results in the U87, PC3, and
A549 cancer cell lines showed that at low DMAT concentrations (1 µM and 5 µM) significant cell growth
was observed. However, at high DMAT concentrations (20 µM, and 50 µM), no cell growth could be
observed. In contrast, HeLa cells were extremely sensitive to the treatment. At all DMAT concentration
used, there was no cell growth observed. Overall, the studies demonstrate that a CK2 inhibitor, DMAT, is
effective in killing cancer cells, and thus it can be a potential drug for future cancer treatment on various
types of cancers.
122
QUANTITATIVE MEASUREMENT OF NITRIC OXIDE RELEASED FROM LIVE CELLS AND
NOS-MODIFIED LIPOSOMES
Reshani H. Perera, M.Sc., Pubudu Peiri, M.Sc., Mekki Bayachou, Ph.D.
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
Nitric oxide (NO) is synthesized by nitric oxide synthases (NOS) to carry a number of physiological
functions, including in the cardiovascular, neuronal and immune systems. Understanding its biological
role requires the measurement of NO in situ in real time in selective, sensitive, and quantitative manner. Its
short half-life in biological systems is a potential barrier for its direct determination.
We developed an electrochemical sensor for NO detection by electropolymerization of 3, 4ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) on 7- and 30-µm carbon fiber electrode (CFE) combined with ruthenium
nanoparticles as catalytic sites for NO. We show that this "third generation" modified sensor has high
sensitivity (more than 100 times than bare CFE), and excellent linearity on a wide range, including low
concentrations (sub-nanomolar) of NO. Our modified microelectrodes offer the potential to measure small
amounts of NO. We show that these sensors can be used in NO measurement at single cells (stimulate
mouse embryonic fibroblast cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells). We also used the sensor to
measure NO released from NOS-loaded Lipid vesicles as model systems to understand NO release from
cells. Understanding NO release from these artificial vesicles would also facilitate the development of
anti-thrombotic vehicles for controlled release of NO.
123
AUTUMN INSECT SUCCESSION AND DECOMPOSITION OF A COOPER’S HAWK IN OHIO
Krystal R. Hans, B.S. 1and Joe B. Keiper, Ph.D.2
1
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
2
Department of Invertebrate Zoology, Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Succession is an orderly process in which the insects present during different stages of decomposition
perform different functions, thus changing the corpse, making it more attractive for the next wave of
insects. A human corpse or an animal carcass provides a resource for arthropods. This resource is
temporary and changes readily, providing a space for a variety of arthropod fauna and creating a
community that changes in a predictable pattern of successional waves. Insect composition and succession
patterns were studied using a Cooper’s hawk which was placed in a forested area of Chardon, Ohio during
the autumn of 2007. Of the 12 different species collected, the most common were of the family
Calliphoridae (Lucilia illustris, Phaenicia coeruleviridis, Phaenicia sericata, Phormia regina). Due to the
lack of published information regarding this significant issue, this experiment was conducted to provide a
database of insect composition for a species which can be a target of poaching in Ohio. This study
provides valuable information about the succession of forensically important species in the autumn and
their impact on decomposition and the database of the Cooper’s hawk can be used in future poaching
investigations.
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55
124
ENHANCED CARDIAC FIBROBLAST PROLIFERATION AND REDUCED MYOFIBROBLAST
CONTENT IN THE EARLY DIABETIC MYOCARDIUM
Patricia E. Shamhart1,2, Daniel J. Luther1,2, Ben R. Hodson1, John C. Koshy1, Vahagn Ohanyan1, Cheryl
M. Hodnichak1, and J. Gary Meszaros1,2
1
Department of Integrated Medical Sciences, Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine,
Rootstown, OH
2
Graduate Program, School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH
Diabetic patients are prone to developing myocardial fibrosis and suffer from decreased wound healing
capabilities. The purpose of this study was to determine whether diabetes alters cardiac fibroblast (CF)
activity, myofibroblast content, and overall function of the myocardium in a 6 week streptozotocininduced (STZ) type 1 diabetic model. The initial stages of dilated cardiomyopathy were evident:
echocardiography revealed a 58.6% increase in corrected LV chamber volume despite no obvious
hypertrophy in the STZ rats. We observed increased proliferation of CFs isolated from the diabetic heart
vs. those from control hearts. Microarray analysis of mRNA from whole left ventricles revealed downregulation of known inhibitors of proliferation, p53 and p21, in the STZ group (p<0.05), consistent with
our proliferation data. We explored the potential signaling underlying the down-regulation of these genes,
utilizing whole heart protein lysates and Western analysis. Activated AKT, a signal that inhibits p53, was
elevated in the stz group. Surprisingly, the STZ group contained almost a 5-fold reduction of the
myofibroblast marker α-SMA (0.229-fold control, p<0.05) and higher levels of desmin (1.59-fold control,
P<0.05). These data suggest that early stage diabetic hearts have fewer myofibroblasts which may
compromise wound healing, but contain more proliferative CFs which predisposes the diabetic
myocardium to fibrosis.
125
ENHANCED NITRIC OXIDE SENSING ON MULTI-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES
DECORATED WITH RUTHENIUM NANOPARTICLES.
Pubudu Peiris, M.Sc. , Mekki Bayachou, Ph.D
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
Nitric oxide (NO) is an important intercellular messenger that acts in many tissues to regulate a diverse
range of physiological, pathological and pharmacological processes. Thus, from a biochemical as well as
medical perspective, it is important to quantify the details of NO production in real-time under normal and
pathological conditions. However, it is difficult to detect this analyte due to its short lifetime.
In this work we describe an electrochemical sensor for NO detection by ruthenium-nanoparticlesdecorated multi-walled carbon nanotubes on microelectrodes. The acid treated MWCNTs are decorated
with Ru nanoparticles by chemical reduction of the corresponding metal salts using ethylene glycol as
reducing agent. These composite materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM),
transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), energy dispersive x-ray
spectroscopy (EDX), and Raman spectroscopy.
The fabricated NO sensor exhibit excellent catalytic behavior towards NO oxidation was assessed by
cyclic voltammetry and amperometry. The presence of carbon nanotubes in conjugation with ruthenium
nanoparticles produces an electrocatalytic effect which counts for the superior performance of these
improved NO sensors. The work will show how the sensor can be used to quantify NO at the level of live
collection of cells, and live single cells.
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56
126
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ELECTRORHEOLOGICAL FLUIDS FOR
MEDICAL DEVICES BY DIELECTRIC AND RHEOCON® ANALYSES
Indika. Perera PhD, M.Maheswaram BSPS, Abdulelah Nasieef and Alan Riga PhD
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
An Electrorheological (ER) process occurs when the viscosity of fluids with dispersed particulates is
modified by the application of an electric field. The Electrorheological Fluids (ERFs) studied are
dispersions of solid polymers in a low dielectric base oil, typically an insulating fluid. When the ERFs are
exposed to a high electric field they demonstrate increased shear stresses, static yield stresses and
enhanced viscosity. A mechanism for ER performance is based on the polarization of the dispersed
polymer particulates. A critical property of the ER occurrence is the ability of the system to respond to the
applied field.
ERFs of recently synthesized Polyaniline.HCl and a Cellulose system, plus an aged Cellulose fluid, a
sample prepared in a Hong Kong lab as well as a commercial ERF from Fludicon® (Germany) were
evaluated with a special two probe unit and by Dielectric Analysis (DEA). The polarization or response
time is a result of the dielectric evaluation of a fluid in an AC field at an isothermal or scanning
temperature mode. The ER response time is directly related to the measured polarization time which is
calculated from the critical peak frequency in a Debye plot and is inversely related to the response time.
Imaging of the ER event will be demonstrated. The applied kV/mm voltage, resulting current and effective
mass fixed between the electrodes indicates that the cellulose ERF is the most promising candidate. .
127
CASEIN KINASE 2 INHIBITION RESULTS IN CANCER CELL DEATH
Hanan F. Mohammad1, Daniel Lindner2, and Michael Kalafatis1,2,3 #
Cleveland State University, Department of Chemistry
2
Taussig Cancer Institute, Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research
3
Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute, and The Cleveland Clinic
1
Cancer describes a group of deadly diseases spread worldwide with high incident rate in the American
society. It’s been established that protein kinase 2 (CK2) is over expressed in cancer cells. Protein kinase
CK2 is a ubiquitously expressed protein that phosphorylates Ser/Thr residues. Previous studies have
shown that CK2 activity is elevated in cancer tissue, and that it plays a deadly role by desensitizing cancer
cells to multiple physiological checkpoints. Blocking CK2 has emerged as the most promising anti-cancer
treatment. Therefore; therapeutic kinase inhibitors have been developed for the treatment of various
cancers. In this study we focus on a specific kinase inhibitor 2-dimethylamino-4,5,6,7-tetrabromo-1Hbenzimidazole (DMAT). In vitro studies testing the efficacy of DMAT showed high specificity and
affinity towards CK2 with Ki = 40 nM, as well as low IC50 of 0.14 μM. The current study was carried out
to elucidate the effectiveness of DMAT as an anti-cancer therapeutic drug. We tested DMAT on brain
carcinoma cell lines U87 and D54, colon cancer HT29, ovarian cancer SKOV3, estrogen receptor negative
breast cancer cell line MDA-MB231, lymphoma cell line U937 and pancreatic carcinoma BxPc3. All cell
lines showed sensitivity to DMAT. Almost 100% inhibition occurs within 72-144 hours of incubation.
BxPc3 had IC50 between 12.5-25 μM, while colon cancer HT29 had IC50 between 1-5 μM. Brain
carcinomas U87 and D54 IC50 were between 2-5 μM and ~12.5 μM respectively. Lymphoma cell line
U937 showed an IC50 between 6 -12 μM. Ovarian cancer SKOV3 IC50 is around 5 μM, and finally MDAMB231 demonstarted IC50 15 μM. These results suggest that some senescence and apoptotic pathways are
activated via DMAT inhibited CK2 pathway, leading to eventual inhibition of cancer growth. Utilizing
these results, subsequent studies will investigate the molecular mechanism of action of DMAT in human
carcinomas. Future results could establish DMAT as an effective anti-cancer therapeutic drug that is
suitable for a clinical trial.
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57
128
THERMALLY INDUCED DIELECTRIC RELAXATION SPECTRA OF ALDOHEXOSES
MONOSACCHARIDES
Libby Kellat, M. Ellen Matthews MPA, Xue-Long Sun, PhD and Alan T. Riga PhD
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
D-Mannose and D-Galactose are C-2 and C-4 epimers of D-Glucose. These aldohexoses are the most
common in biological systems and nature. This carbohydrate research is prompted by the previous
observation of dielectric loss spectra and excimer formation in amino acids (i.e. L-Arginine and LHistidine), drugs (i.e. sulfapyradine and tolbutamide), as well as chemicals like anthracene (known to form
a dimer/excimer in the solid state) and naphthalene.
Three aldohexose monosaccharides, D-Glucose, D-Mannose and D-Galactose, were examined by
scanning temperature Dielectric Analysis (DEA) from ambient temperatures through their melts. Phase
transitions, including glass transition (Tg) and melting temperature (Tm), were evaluated by Differential
Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The second and third DEA curves of each aldohexoses were characteristic
of an amorphous phase, with highly enhanced conductivity (DEA) and a definitive second run Tg (DSC).
The monosaccharides were found to exhibit thermally-induced dielectric loss spectra or Dielectric Viscoelastic properties in their solid state prior to melting. Activation energies for electrical charging of each of
the monosaccharides were calculated from an Arhennius plot of peak frequency versus reciprocal
temperature. The DEA profiles were also correlated with the DSC phase diagrams, showing the changes in
electrical behavior associated with solid-solid (excimer formation) and solid-liquid (melting) transitions.
129
ENHANCED MECHANICAL AND CALORIMETERIC TESTS FOR EVALUATING DRUG
DISINTEGRATION OF FORMULATED TABLETS AND CAPSULES
V. Badipatla BSPS[1] I. Perera PhD [1], M.Maheswaram BSPS [1], A.Riga PhD, [1, 2] and K.S. Alexander
PhD [2]
[1]
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
[2]
Division of Industrial Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of
Toledo,
Thermal Mechanical Analysis (TMA) has been developed to measure the rate and initial time of drug
disintegration. The TMA monitors the physical dimension of the formulated drug as a function of time,
temperature, applied stress and pH. The results of this new test will meet USP specifications. This method
can be used to measure the expansion, or swelling of the formulated tablet. It can also monitor the
shrinkage or drug disintegration in a specified fluid. The focus of this study is an efficient and precise
method to measure the drug delivery of solid dose tablets and capsules. The precision of the method along
with the effect of pH and temperature on the rate of delivery was determined. The drugs studied were
Femhrt and Aspirin tablets as well as Amoxicillin Capsules.
Drug delivery in a specific solution was measured by UV Analysis for the active pharmaceutical
ingredient. Temperature decreased the disintegration time and increased the rate (mm/min). Differential
Scanning Calorimetry is in development to measure drug disintegration by its Heat of Solution The
Amoxicillin 500 mg capsule disintegrated by first absorbing the solvent water and softened. Then the 2nd
step was the rounded ends collapsed allowing the drug to be released to the solution. The increased
temperature shortened the capsule dissolving time.. Tablets or capsules disintegrate and release the drug
while it structurally is falling apart. Some tablets swell and allow the active ingredient to be released.
Some tablets swell and then disintegrate either rapidly over a period of time. This TMA method
distinguished clearly the orally disintegrating drug (Olanzapine® in 18 seconds), the drug delivery to the
stomach, e.g. Femhrt® (1-20 minutes) and those drugs that are bound for the intestines (Ritalin® in >39
minutes and Abilify® >60minutes)
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58
130
STANDARD THERMAL ANALYSI TEST METHODS FOR THE EVALUATION OF WATER
CONTENT IN COMMERCIAL PHARMACEUTICAL SUSPENSIONS OF MILK OF
MAGNESIA
Basil Awawdeh, Vipin Misra, Abdulelah Nasieef, Hareesha Venumuddala and Alan Riga PhD
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
This study developed a standard protocol to determine the water content by thermal analysis of Milk of
Magnesia. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) were used
in a novel manner while examining the Commercial Pharmaceutical Suspensions. Milk of Magnesia
consists primarily of water and Magnesium Hydroxide. Experimental design of the thermal analysis
parameters were considered including sample size, flowing atmosphere, sample pan and heating rate for
both DSC and TGA, The results established the optimum conditions minimizing heat and mass transfer
effect were sample size (5-15 mgs), heating rate (10oC/min) and an atmosphere of nitrogen. Crimped
crucibles with out a pinhole allowed maximum resolution and gave well defined mass (water) loss.
The DSC average water content of Milk of Magnesia was 76%w based on the crystallization, melting and
vaporization of unbound water on recently purchased samples. A study commenced earlier yielded 69%w
of water by DSC. The TGA showed a two step process loosing water at 62-75oC and another portion at
110-170oC yielding an average loss of water 88%w. In nitrogen flow with the TGA at 415-450oC an
additional 3.0%w loss was observed. The total average loss was 91%w by TGA to 450oC while the DSC
loss was 69-76%w to 180oC. The difference between the high temperature TGA and the lower temperature
DSC can be attributed the decomposition of Magnesium Hydroxide (theory waster loss 31%w). Therefore
in performing this water analysis .heating to a high temperature decomposed the Magnesium Hydroxide
residue. It is our considered opinion that the DSC method is more accurate than the TGA protocol.
131
THE STATUS OF AN EXOTIC ANT (PARATRECHINA FLAVIPES) AND ITS POTENTIAL
IMPACT ON REGIONAL NATURAL RESOURCES IN CLEVELAND, OHIO
Kaloyan Ivanov, M.S. and Owen M. Lockhart, M.S.
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
Invasive species can be ecologically devastating, and understanding their impact is important for the
conservation of native biota. In 2005, a population of exotic ants (Paratrechina flavipes) was discovered
within the Doan Brook watershed in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, and several populations of these ants are
currently well established within Doan Brook Gorge. The objectives of this study were to document the
potential impact of Paratrechina flavipes on (1) native ant communities and (2) resource use by an
important forest floor predator (red-backed salamander, Plethodon cinereus). Paratrechina are highly
abundant where they occur, comprising over 80% of the total number of ants captured. The predominance
of this species results in lower ant diversity, due primarily to decreased community evenness (rather than a
decrease in species richness). Paratrechina often are the first ants to arrive at baits. However, they show
little or no aggression towards other ant species and are quickly displaced from baits as native ants arrive.
Plethodon cinereus has incorporated Paratrechina into its diet, and does not appear to discriminate
between native and non-native ants. Due to the number and magnitude of environmental stressors that
occur within the watershed, it is difficult to determine whether Paratrechina is responsible for any
negative biological impacts or if it is an opportunist in an already stressed system. Our results reinforce the
need for quality baseline data of community composition and structure in order to determine the true
impacts of an environmental disturbance on a system.
132
THE ROLE OF BAG-1 IN ENDOPLASMIC RETICULUM STRESS USING A MODEL OF EX
VIVO-GENERATED CARTILAGE
1,2
Ashleigh E. Nugent; 1Denise L. McBurney; 1,2Meghan M. Moran; 1,2Walter E. Horton, Jr.
Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and
Pharmacy, Rootstown, OH,
1
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59
2
School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH
Recently our lab characterized a model of ex vivo-generated cartilage using bovine chondrocytes
suspended in collagen I and subjected to multiple endpoint analysis to assess quality. Ex vivo-generated
cartilage was analyzed across a time series for marker proteins, biochemical content, and MR profile, and
were found to have properties similar to native bovine cartilage after ~2 weeks in culture. Concurrently,
our lab is interested in the role of Bcl-2 associated athanogene-1 (Bag-1) in chondrocyte endplasmic
reticulum (ER) stress. Bag-1 is a multifunctional protein that has recently been implicated as a
downstream regulator of the ER stress response in chondrocytes. Our current hypothesis is that the
presence of a complex extracellular matrix (ECM) will confer protection from ER stress-inducing agents.
Chondrocytes were isolated from 1-3 week old calf knees, suspended in 2.7mg/mL collagen I, and plated
as 300µL ‘spot cultures’ (SCs) with 5x106 cells per spot. SCs were grown for a period of time (1 day
through 2 weeks) before being subjected to ER stressors. Additionally, SCs grown for 1 week or 2 weeks
were subjected to increasing concentrations of ER stressors. Immunostaining for the ER chaperone Grp78
indicates matrix protection of SCs subjected to glucose withdrawal, but not tunicamycin (TN) or
thapsigargin (TG) treatment. SCs subjected to ER stressors up-regulate Grp78 at the protein and mRNA
levels even at low concentrations of TN and TG, but do not up-regulate Gadd153; suggesting that the cells
are experiencing ER stress but will not terminate in apoptosis. In contrast, bovine chondrocytes in
monolayer up-regulate both Grp78 and Gadd153. These results suggest that the presence of an ECM
confers some protection from ER stressors, with further studies underway to determine the role of Bag-1
in this response. [This work was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health and the
Arthritis Foundation]
133
UTILITY OF FLUCTUATING ASYMMETRY IN CADDISFLIES (TRICHOPTERA) AS AN
INDICATOR OF COASTAL WETLAND HEALTH IN LAKE ERIE.
Jennifer R. Milligan M.S.1 and Joe B. Keiper PhD2
1
Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University
2
Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland
Fluctuating asymmetry (FA) in caddisflies can serve as a tool to determine ecosystem stress. Eight Lake
Erie coastal wetlands were sampled to determine if biotic differences between impacted and un-impacted
wetlands of two types (protected embayments and open lacustrine wetlands) could be detected. Adult
caddisflies were sampled with modified UV light traps. Hydroptila waubesiana, Agraylea multipunctata,
and Oecetis cinerascens were the most abundant trichopterans collected. We investigated whether levels
of FA in the three species are correlated with wetland quality. Species richness and diversity are common
measures of wetland health. We calculated the diversity and richness of caddisflies for wetlands of
differing quality to investigate how FA correlates with these measures. We assessed whether habitat
generalist species, such as H. waubesiana, exhibit less symmetry than habitat specific species, such as A.
multipunctata. Measurements of the FA on the length of three morphological characters were assessed, 1)
front tibia, 2) front wing costal vein, and 3) antennal scape. In order to calculate FA, the absolute value of
log right measurement minus log left measurement were taken for each character (FA=/logR-logL/). There
was a significant increase of FA in the tibial length of H. waubesiana in impacted wetlands, implying that
FA in H. waubesiana may be useful as an indicator in wetland quality. Neither character in A.
multipunctata or O. cinerascens exhibited a significant difference in FA between unimpacted and
impacted wetlands. There is no evidence that habitat specialists are more susceptible to asymmetry than
habitat generalists.
134
EVALUATION OF PENTACYCLOUNDECYLAMINES AND TRIQUINYLAMINES
MODULATORS OF CALCIUM HOMEOSTASIS IN NEURODEGENERATON.
AS
Lois-May Bezuidenhout, M.S.1, Werner J. Geldenhuys, Ph.D.1, Sarel F. Malan, Ph.D.2, Cornelis J. Van
der Schyf, D.Sc.1
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60
1
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and
Pharmacy
2
Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
Neurodegenerative diseases include common and debilitating disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD),
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Huntington’s disease (HD) and post-stroke neurodegeneration. These disorders
have drawn attention because of their devastating impact and financial burden on society and the health
care system. Most neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by progressive and irreversible loss of
neurons from specific regions of the brain. Compromised calcium homeostasis within the central nervous
system has been implicated as one of the major factors in the pathology underlying neurodegeneration.
The focus of the current study was to elucidate, in part, the mechanism(s) of action for a novel series of
multifunctional therapeutic agents that may be used as disease modifying agents in neurodegenerative
diseases. Several triquinylamine derivatives were synthesized to supplement a series of
pentacycloudecylamines that are structurally related. These compounds were evaluated for their ability to
modulate calcium flux through the L-type calcium channel by means of fluorescent calcium imaging
utilizing Fura-2/AM. A screening technique utilizing a fluorescent microplate reader allowed us to
calculate IC50 values for these compounds. Fluorescent microscopy was used additionally. The ability of
the compounds to offer neuroprotection was evaluated through apoptosis-identifying assays including
lactate dehydrogenase release (LDH-assay) and Annexin V-FITC. In conclusion we found that one
compound (designated LB4) inhibited L-type calcium channel activity at an IC50 value of 1.4 μM. These
data, and the effects of LB4 and others on cell viability will be discussed.
135
THE REGULATORY FUNCTION OF AMINO ACID REGION 659-663 OF FACTOR VA ON
PROTHROMBINASE DURING THROMBIN FORMATION
Jamila Hirbawi, BS1* and Michael Kalafatis, PhD1,2.
1
Chemistry, Cleveland State University
2
Molecular Cardiology, Cleveland Clinic
The proteolytic conversion of prothrombin to thrombin is catalyzed by the prothrombinase complex
composed of the enzyme, factor Xa (fXa), the cofactor, factor Va (fVa), assembled on a membrane surface
in the presence of divalent metal ions. The incorporation of factor Va (fVa) into the prothrombinase
complex results in a 300,000-fold increase in the catalytic efficiency of factor Xa (fXa) for thrombin
generation. It has been demonstrated that the COOH-terminal region of factor Va contains amino acids
that are crucial for its cofactor activity. Site-directed mutagenesis was performed to generate factor V
molecules that contain either region Asp659-Asp663 (fV663) or the double deletion mutant containing region
Lys680-Arg709 and region Asp659-Asp663 (fV663+709)) deleted from the COOH-terminal region of the heavy
chain, along with a mutant molecule containing point mutations in region Asp659-Asp663 where the five
amino acids in this sequence are mutated to all lysines (fV5K). These recombinant molecules along with
wild type factor V (fVWT) were transiently expressed in COS7L cells and assessed for their capability to
promote prothrombin activation. SDS-PAGE analyses of prothrombin activation time courses revealed
that the overall cleavage of prothrombin by prothrombinase assembled with the recombinant mutant
molecules was slower. Two- stage clotting assays (PT times) revealed that Fv663+709, fVa5K, and fVa663 all
had reduced clotting activities compared to fVaWT and plasma-derived fVa. Kinetic analyses demonstrated
that Kd values for all the mutants showed similar values to wild-type and plasma-derived factor Va.
However, kcat values for the various molecules varied. The kcat values for fVa5K, and fVa663 had a 10-fold
reduction when compared to wild-type factor Va, while fVa663+709 showed a value that was 75% of the
wild-type. Our data suggest that the COOH-terminus of the factor Va heavy chain plays a preeminent role
in proper prothrombinase complex assembly and activity, resulting in competent thrombin formation.
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61
136
PXR INDUCES CYP27A1 IN THE INTESTINE: A CROSSTALK BETWEEN DRUG
METABOLISM AND CHOLESTEROL HOMEOSTASIS
Tiangang Li and John Y.L. Chiang
Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeastern Ohio Univ’s Coll of Med. Rootstown, OH
Mitochondrial sterol 27-hydroxylase (CYP27A1) is expressed in the liver and other tissues, and
participates in both classic and acidic bile acid biosynthetic pathways. It is thought that CYP27A1 may
play a role in protecting endothelia from accumulating cholesterol and oxysterols, thus defense against the
development of atherosclerosis. Bile acid and steroid/xenobiotic-activated PXR has been shown to inhibit
CYP7A1 and induce CYP3A4 to protect the liver from accumulating toxic bile acids and xenobiotics. The
objective of this study is to investigate the possible role of PXR in regulating CYP27A1. Quantitative realtime PCR analysis revealed that rifampicin, a human PXR agonist, induced CYP27A1 mRNA expression
in the intestine derived Caco2 cells, but not in liver-derived HepG2 cells and human primary hepatocytes.
Rifampicin strongly induced CYP3A4 mRNA levels in HepG2, Caco2 and primary hepatocytes. Reporter
assays showed that rifampicin and PXR induced CYP27A1 and CYP3A4 reporter activities in Caco2 cells,
but not in HepG2 cells. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays
using Caco2 cells identified three PXR binding sites in the human CYP27A1 promoter. Promoter deletion
analysis and mutagenesis studies revealed a DR5 site as a functional PXR response element. In summary,
our results suggest that PXR induces CYP27A1 in the intestinal cells and may play a role in regulating
cholesterol homeostasis.
137
A NEW METHOD FOR THE DETECTION OF MITOCHONDRIAL OXIDATIVE STRESS
Danielle Speicher, B.S.1,2, Yuhfen Pung, Ph.D.1, James Hardwick, Ph.D.1, William Chilian, Ph.D.1,
June Yun, Ph.D.1
1
The Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Dept. of Integrative Medical Sciences,
2
Kent State University, School of Biomedical Sciences
A consequence of mitochondrial (mt) electron transport and energy production is continual formation of
reactive oxygen species (ROS). MtROS production is usually compensated by high activities of
antioxidants, e.g., superoxide dismutases 1 and 2. However, under various physiological or pathological
states, mtROS production exceeds antioxidant defenses and oxidative (Ox) modification of mt proteins
and mtDNA occurs. Current techniques to detect mtOx stress include estimations of ROS, Southern
blotting to measure mtDNA fragmentation, or immunostaining and HPLC to measure Ox stress
biomarkers such as 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG). These techniques are laborious and require
specialized procedures (use of radioisotopes) or equipment (HPLC). Our goal was to devise and evaluate a
new, simple method of assessing mtOx stress. Total cellular or mtDNA was isolated from liver and heart
from Zucker lean and obese rats. Equal amounts of DNA were fixed to a nitrocellulose membrane and an
immunoblotting protocol was performed with an antibody against 8OHdG. Levels of 8OHdG in heart
mtDNA were less in Zucker lean than those from obese rats, consistent with other measurements from our
laboratories showing greater mtROS production in obese compared to lean rats. The proposed method is
useful to measure ROS-induced DNA damage because it is convenient, semi-quantitative, and accurate
even with small amounts of DNA.
138
A UNIVERSAL ALGORITHM FOR RAMAN SPECTRAL MATCHING
Nikolas J. Neric and John F. Turner II, Ph.D.
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
Mineral identification has traditionally been performed by measuring refraction index, specific gravity,
pleochroism, fluorescence, optical absorption, thermal conductivity, magnetism, and inclusionary matter.
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62
Alone, each of these methods is not capable of unambiguously identifying the mineral. When used
together, identifying errors are greatly reduced, but some ambiguity remains. What is needed is a single
molecularly specific method to accurately identify mineral species in a nondestructive manner. Raman
spectroscopy and Raman spectral imaging are well suited for mineral identification. However, their utility
is diminished by high cost, low efficiency, and difficulty in transferring spectral libraries between
instruments that utilize different excitation wavelengths. In our work, we present a new spectral matching
algorithm that suppresses instrument dependent artifacts. Our approach diminishes the effects of baseline
shifts and offsets, non-sample dependent band shifts, and variations in the Raman band intensities that
result from different sample orientations relative to the laser polarization axis or different excitation
wavelengths. Our motivation is to develop a fully automated non-assisted procedure for accurately
matching the Raman spectra from unknown samples to the Raman spectra of samples in a database. The
result, a ranked series of correlation scores, is generated after suppression of baseline irregularities and
band shape anomalies. We present the methodology and demonstrate its efficacy against our recently
debuted library of several thousand mineral spectra.
139
MENTAL PRACTICE OF ACTION AND REHABILITATION OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
Andrew Slifkin, Ph.D.1, Francois Bethoux, M.D.2, Darlene Stough, R.N.2, Melanie Charlotte, B.A.3,
Christopher Bialko, B.A.1 and Jeffrey Eder, M.A.4
1
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University;
2
Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland
Clinic;
3
Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland, Baltimore;
4
Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University
Much of the current research on the rehabilitation of individuals with MS has focused on engagement in
physical exercise programs. While physical exercise has been shown to have benefits to MS patients, a
serious drawback is that it may result in the acute worsening of common symptoms of the disease.
Consequently, there has been low compliance in studies on exercise in MS patients. Given such
constraints, the current research evaluates an alternative approach—mental practice of action (MPA) to
improve motor function in MS patients. Since no actual movement occurs during MPA, risk for the
worsening of neurologic symptoms and injury should be removed, and compliance should increase. In our
study, MS patients practiced a manual aiming task [Visually Guided Pointing Task (VGPT)] in one of
three groups: Mental Practice Group (MPG), Actual Practice Group (APG), No Practice Group (NPG).
Patients in the MPG and APG came to the laboratory to mentally or actually practice twice a week, over
an eight-week period. Those assigned to the NPG did not practice. During Pretest and Posttest sessions,
patients in all groups actually perform the VGPT, along with a range of other tests [e.g., MSFC]. The
results from the initial patients in our study show that the average Pretest-to-Posttest change in VGPT
movement speed was the greatest in the APG. However, MPG Pretest-to-Posttest change in movement
speed was statistically equivalent to the APG, and the change in both the APG and MPG movement speeds
were statistically greater than that of the NPG. Other analyses indicate that MPA (VGPT) may relate to
improvements in other upper extremity function (9-HPT), and lower extremity function (T25-FW). Thus,
our preliminary results suggest that prolonged MPA is superior to no practice, and approximates the
benefits of actual practice.
140
THE VALIDITY OF SELF-REPORT INNOVATIVENESS SCALES
Blake E. Hodges B.A.1, Brian F. Blake, Ph.D.1, Kimberly A. Neuendorf, Ph.D.2
1
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University;
2
School of Communication, Cleveland State University
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63
Innovativeness is one of the more widely studied phenomena in the domain of consumer research and
plays a prominent role in adoption of new products (Im, Bayus & Mason, 2003, Midgley & Dowling,
1978). Because of this, innovativeness scales have been developed in order to help researchers and
marketers understand this important relationship. However, issues regarding the validity of the
innovativeness construct as well as its scales still remain. This research examines the relationship between
innovativeness and new product adoption. Using results from an online survey, effectiveness and validity
of two innovativeness scales were examined, both alone as well as in larger models which incorporate
other variables. Results indicate that when used alone, the innovativeness scales are significantly related to
new product adoption. However, when used in combination with other variables the validity and predictive
ability of these scales is called into question. Specifically, it was found that the Doman Specific
Innovativeness scale (DSI) as a predictor becomes insignificant when used in a model which incorporates
a measure of purchase intention. However, this effect was not seen for a new scale, the General Shopping
Innovativeness scale (GSI). Results/implications are discussed and recommendations are made which can
help researchers and practitioner’s alike better understand when and why people are likely to adopt
innovations.
141
THE LOADING OF MOTOR IMAGERY
Andrew B. Slifkin
Department of Psychology, Cleveland State University
Actual and imagined action are said to be governed by common information and neural processes. Such a
statement has found strong support from a range of chronometric studies showing that it takes the same
amount of time to actually move and to imagine moving. However, exceptions have sometimes been
observed when actual and imagined movements were made under conditions of inertial loading. The
current study tested the hypothesis that the appearance and magnitude of actual-imagined movement
duration (MD) differences depends on the level of load relative to the maximum loading capacity of the
involved effector system [the maximum voluntary load (MVL)]. The experiment required 12 young,
healthy humans to actually produce, and to imagine producing single degree of freedom index finger
movements under a range of loads (0-80% MVL). As predicted, actual-imagined differences were absent
at lower loads, but differences appeared and increased in magnitude with further increases in %MVL.
142
THE IKKG/NEMO AND THE ASSEMBLY OF THE IKB KINASE COMPLEX
Aspasia Sicking, B.S.1, Rati Lama, B.S.1, Thomas Lumsden B.S.1, Joseph A. DiDonato Ph.D.2, Xavier Lee Ph.D.2, Stanley L. Hazen Ph.D.2, and Camelia Gogonea Ph.D.1,2
1
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University;
2
Department of Cell Biology, Cleveland Clinic;
3
Center for Cardiovascular Diagnostics and Prevention, Cleveland Clinic
The involvement of the NF-kB transcription factors in human inflammation and disease sets them up as
targets for therapeutics. The elucidation of the molecular details of the NF-kB pathway will enable us to
develop more specific and potent inhibitors. IKKγ/NEMO is critical for the assembly of the high
molecular weight IkB kinase (IKK) complex. This complex is composed of two protein kinases, IKK-α
and IKK-β, and IKKγ/NEMO. It is believed that the activation of IKKγ/NEMO protein requires a drastic
change in its conformation. We propose that IKKγ/NEMO oligomerize as a compact trimer in order to
expose its binding domain to the IKK-α/IKK-β dimer to form the IKK complex. This assumption is based
on previous results obtained by small angle neutron scattering (SANS). Using state-of-the-art modeling
software for molecular visualization (MODELLER, Pymol, SwissPDBviewer) and for molecular
mechanics calculations (Gromacs) we will construct molecular models of IKKγ/NEMO and will evaluate
their quality by investigating inter-atomic distances between lysine residues to check for chemical
crosslinks and by performing neutron scattering calculations on the models and compare the theoretical
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64
scattograms with the experimental ones. The purification of IKKα IKKβ and IKKγ/NEMO proteins, the
NF-kB inhibition assays, analytical gel filtration, and chemical crosslinks, and other experimental
procedures will be performed, and along with the SANS results will add support to our theoretical
molecular model.
143
ANALYTICAL METHOD DEVELOPMENT FOR 6-BENZYLTHIOINOSINE, A NOVEL
MYELOID DIFFERENTIATION-INDUCING AGENT
Lan Li, B.S.1, David N. Wald, Ph.D.2, William Tse, Ph.D.2, Yan Xu, Ph.D. 1
1
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University;
2
Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
6-Benzylthioinosine (6BT) is a novel monocytic differentiation agent with apparent specificity on
leukemic cells and low toxicity on non-malignant cells. 6BT is currently being investigated for treating
acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Since AML is characterized as the arrest of differentiation of immature
myeloid cells, a therapeutic strategy for AML was developed by inducing differentiation of leukemic cells.
While the currently used agents are only useful for acute promyelocytic leukemia, a rare subtype of AML,
6BT exhibits not only high myeloid differentiation-inducing activity in a subset of leukemia cells but also
specific mechanisms of action. Therefore, 6BT is exploited as therapeutics for other AML subtypes. The
analytical analysis of 6BT will enables the pharmacokinetic study of 6BT and facilitates the therapeutic
development of 6BT. Our preliminary work shows that we can extract 6BT by liquid-liquid extraction
from plasmas and detect it by the LC-MS/MS method developed. Two linear calibration curves (3-1000
ng/mL) were established by utilizing 2-amino-6-benzylthioinosine (2A6BT) as the internal standard. After
validation, the methods developed showed high recovery, accuracy and precision. Our future work will
focus on applying the established methods for the determination of 6BT in pharmacokinetic studies. The
information obtained will facilitates the therapeutic development of 6BT.
144
SMART NANOPARTICLE VESICLES - MICELLES:
STUCTURE, DYNAMICS, AND WATER CONTENT
EXPLORING
AGGEGATION,
Vidhi Patel, B.S., Karen M. Johnson, B.A., Mike Lekan, B.S., and Kiril A. Streletzky, Ph.D
Department of Physics, Cleveland State University
Brij-35 surfactant micelles in solution were studied using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) Spectroscopy
and Optical Probe Diffusion method. The mutual diffusion of micelles was directly measured in aqueous
solutions with Brij-35 concentration range of 2 to 100g/L. In addition, the diffusion of polystyrene latex
spheres (optical probes with diameters of 24, 50, 186, 282 and 792nm) was measured in the same solutions
of the surfactant. The hydrodynamic models of micelle-micelle and micelle-probe interactions were used
to interpret the parallel measurements of micelle (Dm) and probe (Dp) diffusion at four temperatures of 10,
25, 40 and 700C. Using the Walden’s Rule we determined that micelles do not change size with
temperature in the range of concentration from 0 to 30g/l. We also found that in this c-range micelle-probe
interactions are independent of temperature. Using both diffusion coefficients we deduced micelle radius
(am), micelle water content (δ), and number of surfactant molecules per micelle (N) using two different
models. The hard sphere model of micelles/probe interaction was used to analyze the data after am was
obtained from the intercept of Dm(c). However, this model contradicts the observation of the positive slope
for Dm(c). The second model used treats micelles as core-shell particles with corona radius (ac). Under this
model, we used just Dm(c) to determine am and ac using the linear least-squares fit of the data. We also
used both Dm(c) and Dp(c) measurements to fit the data simultaneously to determine the best combination
of N, δ, am and ac. This method of the core-shell model relying on simultaneous fits yields the most stable
values of N. This model yielded am of 4 - 4.5nm and ac – am of about 1nm independent of temperature. We
also found N to increase and δ to decrease with increase of T in self-consistent manner.
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145
A PLANE WAVE DISPERSION LAW FOR THE VIRTUALLY IMAGED PHASED ARRAY
Nick Pallas, B.S., John F. Turner II Ph.D
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
The virtually imaged phased array (VIPA) is a modified Fabry-Perot etalon capable of providing a large
angular dispersion across a narrow free spectral range. In the work presented here, we have developed a
dispersion law for the VIPA based on plane wave theory. Our aim is to develop a narrow band filter that
would allow simultaneous Brillouin scattering and Raman scattering measurements in bio-mineralized
samples. The advantages of the VIPA device include low cost, monolithic design, high spectral resolution,
and high optical throughput. Our initial results yield free spectral ranges between 1.0 and 2.5nm with
bandwidths close to 0.3nm (FWHM) for glass and open air VIPAs. A generalized dispersion equation for
the VIPA and the design of the Brillouin-Raman hybrid instrument are presented.
146
NONLINEAR ANALYSIS OF ELECTROMYOGRAPHY TIME SERIES
Bryan Vyhnalek1, Ulrich Zurcher1, Miron Kaufman1, and Paul Sung2
1
Department of Physics, Cleveland State University
2
Department of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
We have previously reported that the mean-square displacement from the sEMG time series xi with
i = 1, 2,...216 exhibits diffusive behavior for short times, t< 50ms, which is followed by a plateau-like
behavior for intermediate times, 50ms < t < 500 ms. For long times, t > 500 ms, the mean-square
displacement increases as time t increases. We calculate displacement X s,t =
t
∑x
s +i
. For fixed time t,
i=0
we show that X s,t has a “bump”-like behavior as a function of the start time s. This property reflects the
non-stationarity of the sEMG signal, and explains the behavior of the probability distribution as a
superposition of two Gaussians that we reported in Physica A 386, 698-709 (2007).
147
COMPROMISED CARDIAC PERFORMANCE AND REMODELING IN COLLAGEN TYPE VI
DEFICIENT MICE AFTER MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
Daniel J. Luther1,2, Patricia E. Shamhart1,2, Vaghan Ohanyan1, Cheryl M. Hodinchack1, James T. Miller1,
Yiru Guo3, Roberto Bolli3, William M. Chilian1,2, and J. Gary Meszaros1,2
1
Department of Integrated Medical Sciences, Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine,
Rootstown, Ohio
2
Graduate Program, School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH
3
Department of Cardiology, Institute of Molecular Cardiology, Louisville, KY
The myocardium adapts to an ischemic insult by initiating a variety of cellular responses largely
propagated by cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and myofibroblasts, the critical mediators of myocardial
remodeling and wound repair. We have reported, in addition to collagen types I and III, that type VI
collagen also plays a significant role in remodeling by inducing CFs to differentiate into wound healing
myofibroblasts. We hypothesize that type VI collagen is required for effective post-myocardial infarction
(MI) wound healing and repair of the myocardium. To test this hypothesis, we induced MI by LAD
occlusion in collagen VI deficient mice (ColVI KO) and performed serial echocardiographic and
histological studies during post-MI remodeling. Echocardiographic studies at 4 weeks post-MI revealed
structural changes in ColVI KO mice including increases in endocardial LV volume (9% diastole; 25.6%
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66
systole), relative wall thinning (13.9%), and decreased corrected LV mass (25.1%) compared to control
mice. Cardiac function was also compromised in KO mice: ejection fraction and fractional shortening
decreased 11.3% and 17.4% respectively, with an increase in mitral valve deceleration time (51.5%) in
KO mice. These data indicate that the absence of collagen type VI in the mouse heart causes modified
remodeling of the myocardium leading to wall thinning, chamber dilation, and diminished systolic and
diastolic function.
148
EFFECTS OF FREE RADICAL SYSTEM ON ENZYME ACTIVITY; CHYMOTRYPSIN AS
MODEL ENZYME
Marley Greiner; Ross VerHeul
Honors General Chemistry Lab., Cleveland State University,
Oxygen radicals (OR) are known to cause structural and functional changes of a wide range of biological
molecules. This study focuses on the relationships between oxygen radicals and proteins. However, there
is little direct evidence that free radicals have direct effects on proteins. Here we used chymotrypsin as a
model enzyme and xanthine/xanthine oxidase as a system for producing oxygen radicals. We first defined
the saturating levels of substrate (xanthine) for the given activity of enzyme to estimate the amount of
oxygen radicals produced. Next, we optimized the method for measuring chymotrypsin; there are several
published methods, but some of them did not work. We finally decided on a method which uses
nitrophenylacetate as a surrogate substrate. This system was optimized and was shown to be inhibited by a
known inhibitor TPCK. Using this optimized quantitative system, we plan to test the potential effects of
the oxygen radicals on the model enzyme, chymotrypsin.
149
VITAMIN B12 PROTECTS AGAINST O2•--DEPENDENT CELL INJURY
Edward S. Moreira,1,2,3,4 Donald W. Jacobsen, PhD,2,4 Nicola E. Brasch, PhD,3,4 June Yun, PhD.1,4
Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown, OH 44272
2
Department of Cell Biology. Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195
3
Department of Chemistry and 4School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242
1
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin, Cbl), an essential cofactor in humans, has been used to treat a range of
inflammatory diseases for decades. Cbl transport proteins and their receptors are elevated in chronic
inflammatory diseases associated with oxidative stress, and it has been suggested that Cbls regulate
cytokines such as TNF- . Superoxide (O2•-), a by-product of normal cellular metabolism, is a free radical
whose production is augmented in acute and chronic inflammation. If O2•- levels overpower the superoxide
dismutase (SOD) defense system, O2•--mediated damage occurs through the induction of proinflammatory cytokines, chemotactic factors, and adhesion molecules.
We have studied the antioxidant properties of Cbl in human aortic endothelial cells (HAEC). HAEC
challenged with 150 M L-homocysteine (Hcy) show increased production of reactive oxygen species
(ROS) and increased cell death. Pre-incubation with physiological concentrations of Cbl reduces ROS
production and inhibits cell death in a dose dependent fashion. On the other hand, Cbl had no effect
against cell death induced by 50 M H2O2. Since Hcy is known to increase the intracellular levels of O2•-,
we decided to study the direct reaction between Cbl and this radical. We have determined that reduced Cbl
(cob(II)alamin) reacts rapidly with O2•- at almost diffusion-controlled rates, with a second order rate
constant of 7.5 x 108 M-1s-1. SOD itself reacts only twice as fast with O2•-. Together, these data suggest
that Cbls are efficient intracellular antioxidants capable of scavenging O2•-, thus providing a second line of
defense against increased oxidative stress and protecting against L-Hcy-induced endothelial injury.
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150 DIFFUSIVE PROPERTIES OF DILUTE HPC SOLUTIONS: COMPARATIVE STUDY WITH DLS
AND FPR
Ryan Mcdonough1, Kiril Streletzky1, Paul Russo2
Department of Physics, Cleveland State University;
2
Louisiana State University
1
The dynamics of HPC (Hydroxy-propyl-cellulose) solutions were studied by two fundamentally different
methods: FPR (Fluorescence Photo-bleaching and Recovery) and DLS (Dynamic Light Scattering). FPR
captures diffusive processes by establishing a photo- bleached boundary and “seeing” only tagged particles
diffusing back into bleached area, which yields a contrast function. DLS auto-correlates scattered light
intensity from particles in order to determine a statistical decay function. Inverse Laplace transform
(CONTIN) and stretch exponential line shape analysis (LSA) serve to quantitatively decompose decay data
into different diffusion processes or modes. The first finding is that the CONTIN and LSA results on the
same sample are fairly consistent. The second finding is that the modal distributions for FPR and DLS
spectra on the same sample show consistent dissimilarities. This indicates a comparative limitation or
sensitivity in range of detectable diffusive processes between FPR and DLS in a complex system. The third
finding is that the fluorescent tag and tagging process seem to alter the diffusion processes seen by DLS in a
way that is consistent; there is a slower mode apparent in non-tagged sample which does not appear in the
tagged sample.
151 PREPARATION, CHARACTERIZATION, AND PROCESSING OF Cu, In, AND Ga
DITHIOCARBAMATES FOR ENERGY CONSERVATION APPLICATIONS
S.A. Duraj, Ph.D1, J .E. Cowen, B.S.1,3, N.V. Duffy, Ph.D.2, A.F. Hepp,Ph.D.3, M.D. Hoops, Ph.D.2,S.M.
Brothers, B.S.2, M.J. Baird,B.S.2, P.E. Fanwick, Ph.D.4, J.D. Harris, Ph.D.3,5, and M.H.-C. Jin, Ph.D.3,6
1
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University
Department of Chemistry, Wheeling Jesuit University, Wheeling WV
3
NASA Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, OH
4
Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
5
Department of Chemistry, Northwest Nazarene University, Nampa, ID
6
Materials Science and Eng., University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX
2
Ten (10) dithiocarbamate complexes of In(III) and Ga(III) have been prepared and characterized by
elemental analysis, infrared spectra and melting points. Each complex was decomposed thermally and its
decomposition products separated and identified with the combination of gas chromatography/mass
spectrometry. Their potential utility as photovoltaic materials precursors was assessed.
Bis(dibenzyldithiocarbamato)- and bis(diethyldithiocarbamato)copper(II), Cu(S2CN(CH2C6H5)2)2 and
Cu(S2CN(C2H5)2)2 respectively, have also been examined for their suitability as precursors for copper
sulfides for the fabrication of photovoltaic materials. Each complex was decomposed thermally and the
products analyzed by GC/MS, TGA and FTIR. The dibenzyl derivative complex decomposed at a lower
temperature (225-320°C) to yield CuS as the product. The diethyl derivative complex decomposed at a
higher temperature (260-325°C) to yield Cu2S. No Cu containing fragments were noted in the mass spectra.
Unusual mass spec recombination fragments were observed in the mass spectra of the diethyl derivative.
Tris(bis(phenylmethyl)carbamodithioato-S,S’),
commonly
referred
to
as
tris(N,Ndibenzyldithiocarbamato)indium(III), In(S2CNBz2)3, was synthesized and characterized by single crystal Xray crystallography. The compound crystallizes in the triclinic space group P1(bar) with two molecules per
unit cell. The material was further characterized using a novel analytical system employing the combined
powers of thermogravimetric analysis, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, and Fourier transform
infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy to investigate its potential use as a precursor for the chemical vapor
deposition (CVD) of thin film materials for photovoltaic applications. Upon heating, the material thermally
decomposes to release CS2 and benzyl moieties in to the gas phase, resulting in bulk In2S3. Preliminary spray
CVD experiments indicate that In(S2CNBz2)3 decomposed on a Cu substrate reacts to produce stoichiometric
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CuInS2 films.
152 SYNTHESIS, DECOMPOSITION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF Fe AND Ni SULFIDES AND
Fe AND Co NANOPARTICLES FOR AEROSPACE APPLICATION
J.E. Cowen, B.S.1, A.F. Hepp, Ph.D.2, N.V. Duffy, Ph.D.3, M.J. Jose, M.S.3, D.B. Choi, Ph.D.3, S.M.
Brothers, B.S.3, M.F. Baird, M.S.3, T.M. Tomsik, B.S.2, S.A. Duraj, Ph.D.4, J.N. Williams, M.S.4, M.J.
Kulis, Ph.D.5, and J.R. Gaier, Ph.D.2
1
Dept. of Materials Science, Case Western Reserve University
NASA Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, OH
3
Department of Chemistry, Wheeling Jesuit University, Wheeling WV
4
Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
5
National Center for Space Exploration Research, NASA GRC, Cleveland, OH
2
We present several related studies where simple Fe, Ni, and Co complexes were prepared, decomposed, and
characterized for aeronautics (Fischer-Tropsch catalysts) and space (high-fidelity lunar regolith simulant
additives) applications. We describe the synthesis and decomposition of several new nickel dithiocarbamate
complexes. Decomposition resulted in a somewhat complicated product mix with NiS predominating. The
thermogravimetric analysis of fifteen tris(diorganodithiocarbamato)-iron(III) has been investigated. Each
undergoes substantial mass loss upon pyrolysis in a nitrogen atmosphere between 195o and 370oC, with
major mass losses occurring between 279o and 324oC. Steric repulsion between organic substituents
generally decreased the decomposition temperature. The product of the pyrolysis was not well defined, but
usually consistent with being either FeS or Fe2S3 or a combination of these. Iron nanoparticles were grown
in a silica matrix with a long-term goal of introducing native iron into a commercial lunar dust simulant in
order to more closely simulate actual lunar regolith. This was also one goal of the iron and nickel sulfide
studies. Finally, cobalt nanoparticle synthesis is being studied currently in our laboratory in order to develop
alternatives to crude processing of cobalt salts with ceramic supports for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.
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