TABLE OF CONTENTS
April 3, 2009
Cartwright Center
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
2:15 p.m. Recognition and Awards Ceremony
Schedule of Oral Presentations………………………………. 4
Port O’Call, CC326, CC330, CC332
Undergraduate Student Abstracts
Oral Presentation Abstracts………..…………..…………… 9
Poster Presentation Abstracts………….…………...………. 24
Exhibit Presentation Abstracts……………………………… 48
Graduate Student Abstracts
Oral Presentation Abstract…………..…..………………….. 53
Poster Presentation Abstracts………………….……………. 53
Addendum…………………………………………………….
58
2008 Recipients of Undergraduate Grants………………..… 60
2008 Recipients of Graduate Grants & Awards……………. 65
Undergraduate Research and Graduate Council
Committee Members…………………………………………. 68
Presenter Index…………..……..…………………………….. 69
Acknowledgments……………………………………..……… 70
2
Welcome from our Chancellor!
We’re pleased that the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is
holding its Twelfth Annual Celebration of Student Research and
Creativity on April 3, 2009. It’s a matter of great pride to all of
us that our undergraduate and graduate students have many
opportunities to engage in faculty mentored research and
creativity in diverse academic disciplines. Congratulations to all
student scholars and their faculty mentors for their participation in our Celebration event. Every
abstract in this publication represents serious commitment and hard work on the part of its
authors, and they deserve our appreciation for their willingness to share with the UW-L
community.
Generally, students in the natural sciences do research by designing and conducting experiments
in their laboratories or by using computational simulation/data analysis to prove hypotheses or
discover new phenomena. Students in the social sciences, on the other hand, pursue their
scholarship through fieldwork and/or rigorous analyses of societal issues. Student artists engage
in the arduous work of composing and performing music or creating an object of art to exhibit. In
all of that, hundreds of UW-L students are the direct beneficiaries of these distinct learning
opportunities through the pursuit of scholarly activities under the guidance of their mentors.
While the resources are never fully adequate to support student research and creative endeavors,
UW-L is pleased to support a number of student scholars through grants. It is also worth noting
that our grant program supports many projects involving international scholarly experiences. The
recipients of these grants in 2008 are acknowledged in this publication, and we congratulate all
of them. Any event of this magnitude involves a great deal of collective planning by many
volunteers; I express my deep appreciation to the members of the Undergraduate Research
Committee and the Graduate Council for their assistance in planning this publication and the
magnificent event.
UW-L is well recognized for its academic excellence throughout the State of Wisconsin and
across the nation for its high retention and graduation rates. It is the serious student engagement
with their faculty mentors over the past many years that has resulted in our well deserved
distinction. We remain committed to supporting academic excellence in future years as we begin
our Growth, Access and Quality initiative. We are also pleased that 84 undergraduate students
will be representing UW-L at the 2009 National Conference on Undergraduate Research
(NCUR) here at UW-L in April. In closing, I congratulate the student scholars and faculty
mentors once again for their hard work and dedication leading to the projects included in the
2009 Celebration of Student Research and Creativity.
Best wishes,
Joe Gow, Chancellor
3
SCHEDULE OF ORAL PRESENTATIONS
Time
9:00
|
9:20
Port O’Call
UR.37
Vinisha Bhatia
Management
Empowering Women: SelfEmployed Women's Association's
Alternative Business Model
9:25
|
9:45
UR.22
Devon Browning
Art
Female Contemporary Artists in
Bangkok
9:50
|
10:10
UR.11
Brooke Baldwin
Physics
Search for Shells in the Interstellar
Medium
10:15
|
10:35
10:40
|
11:00
11:05
|
11:25
UR.44
Calie Eck
Rec. Management/Therapeutic
Rec. and Communication Studies
Boating Law Communication : The
Effects it Has on Boaters’ Safety
When Drinking Alcohol
UR.9
Yevgenia Kulgina
Communication Studies
A Critical Study of Media Portrayal
of the War between Georgia and
Russia
UR.2
Jaime Nelson
English
You Finished Writing Your NovelNow What? Revision, Editors, and
Publication
CC 326
CC 330
UR.29
Katy Borden
Modern Languages
Integrating Technology into
Foreign Language Education
UR.36
Michael Beilman
Economics
Microfinances in Rural Ecuador: A
Case Study of La Cooperativa de
Ahorro y Crédito Desarrollo de los
Pueblos
UR.7
Nicholas Thorson
UR.17
Jerome Robinson
History
Chemistry
Sherman’s March to the Sea: A
HPLC Separation of Metal-Free
Simulated Magazine Article from
Intermediates in the Formation of
1865
Chiral Metallophthalocyanines
UR.33
Amy Schott
UR.35
Tyler Baur & Dylan
Sociology & Archaeology
Lukes
A Comparison of Iconography from Mathematics
Northwestern Costa Rica and the
An Evaluation of the IRT Models
Mixtec Culture of Central Mexico
through Monte Carlo Simulation
UR.5
David Shudy, Anna Hatch, UR.16
Christianne Swartz
& Sarah Schreiner
English
Chemistry
Edna Pontellier: A Twentieth
Hybridization Properties of DNA
Century Philomela
Bound to Gold via Non-specific
Attachment Methods
UR.23 Rachel Favorite, Trevor
UR.18
Candice Bentley
Oswald, & Raymond Leach
Sociology & Archaeology
Mathematics
Fitting Religion into the Lives of
College Students
How Memory and Past
Information Impacts Wealth and
Consumption
UR.3
Andrew Belter
UR.13
Megan Campfield
Mathematics
English
Teaching Mathematics for
Caged Birds & Subjugated Authority:
Procedural Understanding
A Study of the Thematic and Historic
Significance of Bird Imagery within
the Works of Kate Chopin, Fanny
Fern, and Susan Glaspell
4
CC 332
GO.1
Peter Fitschen
Biology
Cardiovascular Benefits of Daily
Black Walnut Consumption
(GRADUATE)
Julie Pitel
UR.25
Honors
Guatemalan Adoption Policies:
Who are they protecting?
UR.38
Andrew Depies
English
Post-Colonial Imbrications in
Shakespeare’s The Tempest
UR.28
Kyra Kaercher
Sociology & Archaeology
A Comparison of Ceramics from
Uruk and Susa circa 3000 BC
UR.8
Joe Riebe
Biology
Preliminary Analysis of Land Cover
Transitions Within Selected
Backwater Areas of the Upper
Mississippi River From 1989-2000
UR.42
Julie Palacheck
Management
International Initiative of Midwest
Managers
11:25
|
11:55
BREAK
BREAK
BREAK
Port O’Call
UR.27
Shaheen Gutierrez
Sociology & Archaeology
The Effects of Trade on Traditional
Subsistence Patterns in Eastern
Tanzania: The Case of the Masaai
CC 326
UR.24
Kurt Wilson
English
The Darker Side: The Human Mind
in Shakespeare’s Macbeth and
King Lear
CC 330
UR.19
Natasha Musalem-Perez
Sociology & Archaeology
Looking for the Past in the Present:
Ethnoarchaeology of Plant
Utilization in Rural Bolivia
CC 332
UR.10
Paul Lanzel
Physics
Simulations of the Hidden
Structure of Galaxies
12:20
|
12:40
UR.6
Gregory Rafn
Sociology & Archaeology
How to Stay Healthy? An
Exploration in Local Attitudes
Towards U.S. Health Care Policy
UR.21
Matthew Groshek
Biology
Competition Between Reed Canary
Grass and Silver Maple Seedlings
UR.15
Thomas L. Kutz
History
An Examination of Themes within
Interviews of Individuals of the
Westmoreland Parish of Jamaica
Conducted in the Spring of 2008
UR.40
Kristin Taylor
Philosophy
A Phenomenological
Interpretation of Descartes
12:45
|
1:05
UR.43
Michael Brown
Philosophy
A Comparative Analysis of Edmund
Husserl's and Aristotle's Theories
of Time
UR.41
Rachel Kramer
Modern Languages
Fukú y el Fantasma de Trujillo: La
Construcción de la Identidad
Dominicana-Americana en The
Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao
UR.20
Maria Drietz
Chemistry
Progress Toward the Synthesis of
the Natural Product, 2Aminoquinoline, and Its Analogs for
Use as Potential Antimicrobials
UR.31
Kaci O’Connell
English
Unnatural Creation, Actual
Destruction: Representations of
Political and Societal Unrest in
Shelley's Frankenstein and
Gilman's Herland
UR.12
Caitlin Helgesen
Modern Languages
Mexican Immigrant Challenges in
the United States Public School
System: A Case Study of Two
Schools
UR.14
Andrew Polzin
Philosophy
Porn Ain’t Pretty
UR.34
Brad Hartl
Physics
Kinetic and Kinematic Data Related
to Increased Anterior Cruciate
Ligament Tensions from Knee
Modeling During Landing
UR.39
Gina Lessard
Communication Studies
Persuasion, Symbols, and
Alfajores: A Qualitative Study of
Unique Advertising Approaches in
Argentina
UR.32
Brad Hartl
Chemistry
Thermodynamic Properties of the
GluR2 Ligand-Binding Core Using 5Substituted Halogenated Willardiine
Agonists
UR.26
Rachel Kramer
Modern Languages
La Relación entre el Lenguaje y la
Cultura según las Teorías de
Wilhelm von Humbolt, Edward
Sapir y Benjamin Whorf
Time
11:55
|
12:15
1:10
|
1:30
1:35
|
1:55
UR.30
Marnie Fisher
English
The Necessary Role of Madness
and Otherness in Brönte's Jane
Eyre
5
BREAK
6
UNDERGRADUATE
STUDENT
ABSTRACTS
7
8
UNDERGRADUATE ORAL PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
UR.1
The Market State of Terror: The Evolution of Terrorism
WITHDRAWN
Eric Gardner
Faculty Advisor: Cecilia G. Manrique, Political Science
In today’s age, terrorism is an imposing figure on the daily life of civilians everywhere. This paper proposes that
the function and scope of terrorism has evolved with the constitutional order of the state. This paper traces the
evolution of terrorism from the Princely State and the Sack of Rome, to the Kingly State and the Caribbean
Pirates, the Territorial State and the Barbary Pirates. The paper then examines the evolution of “modern
terrorism” in the form of the State Nation and the Russian Revolution, the formation of the Muslim Brotherhood
and eventually the creation of al-Qaeda. By tracing the roots and goals of terrorism through the ages, it becomes
possible to accurately gauge the scope and structure of the current form of terrorism, the Market State. This paper
predicts that due to the very things that now allow individuals to economically succeed against, large corporations
(free markets, fluid capital, cheap technology, and relatively low barriers to entry) allow the Market State terrorist
the opportunity to compete against the target state. Conversely, there is no way to defeat a Market State terrorist
through traditional military means. However, success may be achieved through a two-pronged approach of
readjusting the infrastructure of the state and changing the foreign policy goals as well.
UR.2
You Finished Writing Your Novel—Now What?: Revision, Editors, and Publication
Jamie Nelson
Faculty Advisor: Matthew Cashion, English
Among the top ten pieces of advice for aspiring writers from published authors is, “You may think your novel is
done, but it isn’t.” There is always another draft to write. This paper investigates the questions, “When is my
novel ready for publication?” and “What can I do to get there?” These questions are answered through analyzing
how readers think, comparing theories on craft, and pinpointing what editors look for. I reached my conclusions
from a case study wherein I sacrificed my novel, Riff, to the laboratory of this project. I revised, revised, and
revised again based on each new piece of information turned up by my research. The critiques I acquired include
those of writers, readers, peers, professors, a writer’s conference panel, and a professional editor. I also gathered
information about the general art of creative writing by reading various writers guides. I studied the publishing
market by online research and interning at a publishing house. Years of work have resulted in a well-edited novel,
a research paper on the art of revision, and my ability to give advice to writers with manuscripts in the state in
which mine once was.
UR.3
Teaching Mathematics for Procedural Understanding
Andrew Belter
Faculty Advisor: Jon Hasenbank, Mathematics
Present research indicates that teaching math for understanding may yield positive gains in student learning and
retention of knowledge. In the 2007-2008 school year, nine classes used a student-centered framework for
teaching math with an emphasis on understanding. Five comparison classes were selected as a baseline. Students
in each of these 14 classes took three algebra tests throughout the year. My advisers and I developed task-specific
rubrics for scoring all three tests, blinded ourselves to the treatment condition by assigning random codes to all
tests, and proceeded to score the 830 tests. A repeated measures ANOVA revealed that over the course of oneyear study period the treatment students made significantly greater gains than comparison students on the skill
questions; there were no differences in gains on the understanding questions. Many of the students, regardless of
treatment, demonstrated deficiencies in basic algebraic proficiencies, including predicting, interpreting, and
evaluating the correctness of their answers. These results warrant further investigation into the effectiveness of
teaching for understanding.
9
UR.4
Long Tail Economics and Politics: The Rise of the Fringe
WITHDRAWN
Eric Gardner
Faculty Advisor: Stephen McDougal, Political Science
A common complaint about the American political system is that due to the high cost of competition only those
with a large amount of financial or social capital can realistically run for political office and influence the political
dialogue. Between 1976 and 2000, the candidate who raised the most money won their party’s nomination. This
research proposes that due to lowered transaction costs made possible by the Internet an ever increasing number
of “fringe” individuals now have an opportunity to run viable campaigns and influence the political discourse of
this country. The research analyzes the effect that long tail economics is having on the political media and
political campaigns. By conducting three comprehensive case studies on user generated content: the resignation of
Trent Lott, the rise of collaborative investigative journalism, and South Korea’s OhMyNews, this project suggests
that individual citizens, not the traditional media, will have an ever increasing role in setting the political
discourse of the country. This paper also conducts three separate case studies on “long shot” Presidential
candidates: Representative Ron Kind, Former Governor Howard Dean, and Senator Barack Obama, and reaches
the conclusion that due to the Internet, candidates without a high amount of social or political capital now have a
realistic chance of winning office. This project successfully predicted that due to the decentralized nature of the
campaign, the advent of online fundraising, and through the rise of user created content, Senator Barack Obama
would win the Democratic nomination and the Presidency of the United States.
UR.5
Hybridization Properties of DNA Bound to Gold via Non-specific Attachment Methods
David Shudy, Anna Hatch, and Sarah Schreiner
Faculty Advisor: Aric Opdahl, Chemistry
Surfaces functionalized with single stranded DNA probes are increasingly used as diagnostic tools in medical
research. An ideal hybridization sensor would have DNA probes widely spaced on the surface and anchored by
strong chemical attachment in an upright conformation. Here we report effects that the underlying substrate can
have on the hybridization properties of DNA probes. In our experiments, gold is used as the underlying substrate,
and short 15-35 nucleotide synthetic DNA is used as probes. Our probes are designed without surface attachment
groups and therefore may only attach to the gold by multiple, but relatively weak, nonspecific nucleotide-gold
interactions. We control the probe conformation (flat or upright oriented) by incorporating nucleotide sequences
which have relatively strong nonspecific interactions, poly(adenine), at select locations in the
strand. Hybridization properties are characterized using surface plasmon resonance (SPR), a label free technique
used to quantify interactions between molecules attached to a gold surface and those in solution. We find that both
flat and upright oriented probe strands hybridize with complementary DNA; however, the efficiency of
hybridization is approximately 50% reduced for flat oriented probes. Additionally, we find that DNA hybrids
formed with flat oriented probes are significantly weaker than hybrids formed with upright oriented DNA. A
unique result we have obtained from this research is that self complementary DNA probes (DNA hairpins) have
asymmetric hybridization properties if one end of the strand contains the 'surface active' sequence—suggesting a
weakened structure. We are exploring potential uses of this unique behavior as a molecular switch.
UR.6
How to Stay Healthy? An Exploration in Local Attitudes towards U.S. Health Care Policy
Gregory Rafn
Faculty Advisor: Carol Miller, Sociology & Archaeology
Currently in the United States there are approximately 47.5 million Americans without health insurance (Urbina
2008). Previous research has attempted to tackle this growing social problem by investigating alternative health
care policies and the effects they might have on various populations within the United States. This study seeks to
investigate local residents’ attitudes pertaining to health care policy in the United States and to determine the
extent to which these attitudes of a Midwestern city of approximately 50, 000 people vary by socioeconomic
status. Utilizing survey methodology, I investigate potential relationships between variables such as income, age,
10
gender, and employment status and sentiments on universal health care, privatized health care, and inequality in
the health care system in a geographical region where health care costs have risen faster than the national
average. Furthermore, I test whether a significant age, gender, and socioeconomic difference on attitudes about
health care exists.
UR.7
Sherman’s March to the Sea: A Simulated Magazine Article from 1865
Nicholas Thorson
Faculty Advisor: Kendall Staggs, History
If a news reporter were to have followed the Union army on Sherman's infamous March to the Sea, what would he
have said? How would he have recounted the events of the march and what events would have been important to
this reporter? These are the types of questions that historians ask all the time, and it is these types of questions that
many seek to answer. The book The Killer Angels (1974), written by Michael Shaara, is one book that does just
that. In it Shaara recreates the events of the battle of Gettysburg and gives the major figures, such as General Lee,
dialogue and conversations with other actual figures. While I will not be able to do this to the degree that Shaara
did, it is my intention to recreate the thinking, circumstances, and climate of the period surrounding Sherman's
March to the Sea. I will also use commentary to comment on important aspects of the march and create a piece of
work that would rival a similar article written about the subject during the Civil War. In order to create this
article, I will use a variety of books and papers. Beyond using general books on the subject, I will use books,
journals, and memoirs of men who participated in the march to the sea. By using this process of historiography, I
will be able to use different authors to create the background as well as create dialogue and stories from the
march. Upon completion of this research one will be able to look at this paper as an example of the feelings of a
Union correspondent from the Atlantic Monthly magazine as he traveled with General Sherman and his men.
UR.8
Preliminary Analysis of Land Cover Transitions within Selected Backwater Areas of the Upper
Mississippi River from 1989 to 2000
Joseph Riebe
Faculty Advisor: Rob Tyser, Biology
Construction of the lock and dam system in the Upper Mississippi River (UMR) during the 1930s resulted in the
formation of extensive backwater areas. The major concern regarding these areas was that allogenic succession
would occur, whereby gradually accumulating sediments would eventually lead to the conversion of these
diverse, productive aquatic habitats into more terrestrial habitats. However, as subsequent research has suggested,
terrestrial habitats have actually decreased while open water habitats have increased. The main objective of this
study was to examine specific landscape changes within selected backwater areas from 1989 to 2000 in order to
determine the extent to which allogenic succession has or has not occurred. Study areas were selected and
delineated using geographical information system software for Pools 4 to 26 (excluding pool 15). The study areas
were then converted to grids with a 10-m x 10-m cell size. Transition matrices were used to document the types
and amounts of landscape changes occurring within the study areas. Preliminary analysis of the transition data
indicates that the majority of transitions occurring within study areas were changes from a less flooded to a more
flooded hydrology class (18 of 22 total pools). This general trend was consistent for upper pools (4 to 13) as well
as for lower pools (14 to 26). Also, the percentage of total study area classified as permanently flooded increased
in 20 of the 22 pools analyzed. In other words, floodplain and marsh areas decreased notably, while permanently
flooded areas increased and were retained. Thus, the results support previous studies that allogenic succession has
not occurred during the time period considered in this study.
11
UR.9
A Critical Study of Media Portrayal of the War between Georgia and Russia
Yevgenia Kulgina
Faculty Advisor: Michael Tollefson, Communication Studies
This study was concerned with the international media portrayal of the conflict between Georgia and Russia in
August-September, 2008. The main purpose was to see how media coverage of the conflict differed depending on
the country of the source. The research question was how online media in France, the USA, and Russia portrayed
the Georgian-Russian conflict in August-September, 2008. The method of the research was rhetorical criticism,
with the use of the metaphor analysis as the approach. Rhetorical criticism was the most appropriate method for
the research because it allows seeing the textual messages of rhetorical artifacts and revealing possible hidden
messages behind the text. Articles found in online media of France, Russia, and the USA were the rhetorical
artifacts in this research. The results showed that there was a significant difference in the portrayal of the war
among French, US, and Russian media. It turned out that national stereotypes, ruling ideologies, and myths from
the past affected the way media covered the conflict. The same events were described differently: different details
were used, different people interviewed, and different conclusions suggested. The US and Russian media showed
significant reliance on national biases. The study raises the question, what exactly affects journalists’ choices of
metaphors, whether independent journalism can exist, and how biases conveyed by the media influence decisions
regarding foreign policy. This research benefits future scholarship in communication studies by showing how
influential mass media communication is in international decision-making and adding a particular case study to
the research on journalistic influence on cross-cultural perceptions.
UR.10 Simulations of the Hidden Structure of Galaxies
Paul Lanzel
Faculty Advisor: Eric Barnes, Physics
Astronomers have gathered a large amount of evidence supporting the existence of a seemingly invisible matter
that permeates the universe. This dark matter forms the skeleton of the universe, and, in particular, dominates the
mass of individual galaxies. While the exact nature of dark matter remains a mystery, limits on its behavior can be
investigated theoretically. Computer simulations provide a means of better understanding dark matter by
modeling systems of particles that are influenced only by gravity. We have created a suite of such models in order
to investigate what effect a varying degree of radial velocity dispersion has on our models’ evolutions. We find
that some of our initially spherical models have an instability that drastically changes the overall shape of the
system. The strength of the instability is related to the fraction of mass with more radial velocity dispersions;
models with more radial motion tend to develop more non-spherical, systemic shapes. This radial mass fraction is
included as an initial condition in our models, and is varied over the radius of the spherical system. Effects of the
instability are then quantified by plotting systemic axis ratios which describe the shape of the system as it evolves
over time; these results are then compared to other models with adjusted variables. We have quantified the
regimes in which systems a) stay spherical, b) take on a prolate spheroidal (football) shape, and c) become fully
triaxial (like an éclair) during their evolutions. This work helps to provide a fundamental understanding of dark
matter models, which in turn allow astronomers to interpret observations with greater clarity.
UR.11 Search for Shells in the Interstellar Medium
Brooke Baldwin
Faculty Advisor: Shauna Sallman, Physics
The interstellar medium (ISM) is the gas and dust that exists between stars in a galaxy. The ISM is not the same
everywhere, but instead contains interesting structures such as shells and chimney-like shapes. These shapes are
caused by winds flowing from stars and supernovae (exploding stars). The clumping and mixing that occurs due
to the formation of these structures aids in the production of new stars. This “recycling” of matter from older stars
into new stars is important to our current understanding of the ISM and the models created to explain it. There are
several models proposed for the configuration of the ISM, but none explains it completely. By studying particular
12
shells, we can refine our models of how they interact with surrounding material in the ISM. The first step in
studying these shells is to find them. These are often visible in maps of cold, neutral hydrogen gas (HI). The
SETHI (Search for Extra-Terrestrial HI) database provides detailed maps of this gas, and has not yet been fully
explored. We analyzed this data using the human eye, which is better than computers at detecting large, irregular
shell. Previous computer searches of similar data could easily have overlooked such shells, particularly if they are
old or no longer expanding. Using the computer software KARMA, we are searching for shell-like structures, and
checking for those that were missed until now. We hope to identify these shells and determine if they are good
candidates to be analyzed for further study. Details of the searching procedure and the list of shells are presented.
UR.12 Mexican Immigrant Challenges in the United States Public School System: A Case Study of Two
Schools
Caitlin Helgesen
Faculty Advisor: Jean Hindson, Modern Languages
Latino students are one of the largest minority populations in American schools today. My research focused
specifically on Mexican immigrant students, as they constitute the majority of this group. In an effort to prepare
teachers for Mexican students in their classroom, I conducted a case study of East High School in Green Bay, WI,
USA, and Fernando Montes de Oca No. 14 in Guadalajara, Mexico. The case study consisted of surveys, personal
interviews, and current relative research in the field in an effort to discover a link between immigrant students
struggles to adapt to a new educational setting and systematical school day differences and/or varying cultural
norms or expectations in the two countries.
UR.13 Caged Birds and Subjugated Authority: A Study of the Thematic and Historic Significance of Bird
Imagery within the Works of Kate Chopin, Fanny Fern, and Susan Glaspell
Megan Campfield
Faculty Advisor: Sharon Jessee, English
Fanny Fern, Kate Chopin, and Susan Glaspell are three American feminist writers who wrote throughout the
development of the Women’s Movement. Within the works of these three influential women authors, there occurs
similar caged bird imagery. Though the use of bird imagery is a well established literary tool, it is unique to find
the symbol occurring in similar thematic motifs within the works of all three authors. My research includes an
active reading of all texts written by each author, and a subsequent analysis of each work that includes bird
imagery to determine that symbol’s importance to the overall theme of the piece. My research then delves into the
cultural importance of the each species of bird that appear in the works, along with the historical influences of the
time period, specifically the Women’s Movement. My paper discusses the various influences caged bird imagery
has to the overall thematic messages of all three authors’ work regarding feminism and matriarchal authority,
along with the historical and cultural significance of bird imagery with regard to women of the time period. This
insight into the history and culture of the late nineteenth century will then be used to show how historical contexts
have influenced the overall theme of the women’s works, and also how the women’s works have influenced
history and culture.
UR.14 Porn Ain't Pretty
Andrew Polzin
Faculty Advisor: Sheryl Ross, Philosophy
Anyone who has spent time in a contemporary art museum knows that the term “art” can be defined vaguely.
Likewise, the definition of “obscene,” in terms of sensual explicitness, is also presented ambiguously.
Unfortunately, when trying to validate the artistic or obscene nature of a thing, “I know it when I see it” is not a
definite answer; so, more resolute descriptions are needed to decide if and where the line between art and lewd
display exists. Using opposed arguments on pornography by Matthew Kieran and Jerrold Levinson, from the third
edition of “Arguing About Art,” I seek to define and separate the three forms of sensual representation by varying
13
levels of explicitness. When separated, the three levels of sensual representations: erotic art, erotica, and
pornography, are possible to evaluate through comparison to concepts presented by Noel Carroll in “The
Philosophy of Motion Pictures.” As photography and film are among the most popular mediums of erotic art,
erotica, and pornography, Noel’s text is useful in creating a working definition of art sufficient to evaluate which
of the three levels of sensual representation can or do qualify as art. I anticipate that erotic art and erotica will
easily meet the artist-intent based requirements to qualify as art under the aesthetic-driven I will create. The
production of pornography, which displays the highest level of explicitness, may focus too much on producing
arousal rather than an aesthetic experience in the viewer to be counted as art. The possibility that pornography
may have the capability to be art but is currently unable to under the conditions of American consumer demand
will also be discussed.
UR.15 An Examination of Themes within Interviews of Individuals of the Westmoreland Parish of
Jamaica Conducted in the Spring of 2008
Thomas L. Kutz
Faculty Advisor: Charles Lee, History
This project, through oral history interviews conducted with community members of the Westmoreland Parish of
Jamaica, explores the concepts of personal experience and identity among common Jamaican people. Some of the
major themes which developed within the interviews are the common themes researchers see in many postcolonial countries such as struggles with poverty, a concern with crime, and the general concern of a weak
governmental structure; themes that are strikingly and wholly Jamaican, such as a feeling of community based
family structures and a sense of pride in the country of Jamaica and its people which goes far beyond the notion of
mere patriotism; also the persecution of the Rastafari for their beliefs, the need for a stronger educational system,
the recognition of a great diversity within the Jamaican people, the development of the tourism industry,
agriculture and artistry (music, craftsmanship, etc.) as the main source of individual income, the need for the
people to love one another and be happy as the paths of oppression and redemption their people must face, and
lastly, that the children of Jamaica are the ultimate hope of the country's development. By combining these
individual interviews and personal observations with studies already conducted on the culture of the Jamaican
people, as well as the history of colonialism and the development of the country of Jamaica in the last half
century, this study shows the development of identity and culture within a newly liberated colonial state, and the
struggle of the Jamaican people searching for a distinctly Jamaican identity.
UR.16 Edna Pontellier: A Twentieth Century Philomela
Christianne Swartz
Faculty Advisor: Susan Crutchfield, English
Kate Chopin’s The Awakening has been regarded for years as an eloquent exploration of the struggles faced by
women who do not fit the social standard, but it has not been widely explored as a retelling of an earlier work: the
Philomela myth. While there is an off-hand reference to a “Philomel” near the end of The Awakening, it is the
only explicit nod that Chopin makes toward Edna’s predecessor. However, the two stories have much in common.
Both impress upon the reader the importance of personal liberty and expression. Both women are sorely used by
the men in their lives and turn to artistic expression when they are unable to communicate in a more conventional
way, Philomela because her tongue has been cut out and Edna because she is bound to observe the expectations of
the society in which she finds herself. Their isolation is mirrored in both stories through the imagery of solitary
birds and the confinement enforced on both. Motherhood is also explored in both stories in an extreme and
unusual sense; both show “bad” mothers as harming their children through non-maternal actions, Edna in her
willful neglect of them and Procne, Philomela’s sister, in her destruction of her son. However, Edna also shares
traits with Tereus, Procne’s husband. Edna wavers between embracing her newfound identity and rejecting it,
attempting to assume the Madonna-like role embodied in Madame Ratignolle, much like Tereus cannot choose
between Philomela and Procne. Through an investigation of feminist and symbolic interpretations of both stories,
I will explore The Awakening as a rewrite of the Philomela myth, Edna embodying all three characters present in
14
Ovid’s tale. In reading The Awakening this way, we begin to understand Edna as part of a lineage of women who
suffer simply because they cannot embrace the roles assigned to them.
UR.17 HPLC Separation of Metal-Free Intermediates in the Formation of Chiral Metallophthalocyanines
Jerome Robinson
Faculty Advisor: Rob McGaff, Chemistry
Phthalocyanines are conjugated, planar, porphyrin-like molecules that find uses in dyes, electronics, catalysis, and
gas sensing. Several years ago our group synthesized several chiral novel phthalocyanines, and are of particular
interest due to the unique saddle shape and chirality established from sp3 hybridization at Carbons 14 and 28. Our
group’s focus has been on the separation of their enantiomers with the intention of testing their enantioselective
catalytic properties. Traditionally, our group has synthesized these complexes via one-pot solvothermal reaction;
however, we have discovered an alternate two step metal-free route leading to isolable metal-free
intermediates. Through use of HPLC we have separated these intermediates and gained valuable insight on the
mechanism of the formation of these chiral metallophthalocyanines, as well as the steps needed to separate these
metallphthalocyanine enantiomers.
UR.18 Fitting Religion into the Lives of College Students
Candice Bentley
Faculty Advisor: Enilda Delgado, Sociology and Archaeology
When students go to college, it is considered an acceptable time for them to examine their beliefs and decide who
they really are. This period of experimentation, however, can contradict the pattern of passing religious beliefs
and attitudes down through generations of families. This study will be looking at how college students transform
the religious beliefs and attitudes in which they were socialized in to better fit their own lives. This transformation
could occur in various ways from no longer adhering to the beliefs of their parents, keeping some of their parents’
beliefs and discarding others, or keeping strict adherence to parents’ beliefs. The study will be conducted through
a random sample or surveys e-mailed to students attending the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Questions
within the survey will be measuring the student’s personal beliefs in comparison to both the respondent’s father
and mother. The responses will be used to determine if there is any difference between students’ religious beliefs
and their parents’ religious beliefs. It is anticipated that students coming from more liberal forms of religious
beliefs will change their beliefs more than students coming from more conservative forms of religious beliefs.
This is based upon the concept that liberal beliefs are more accepting of change than are conservative
beliefs. While some students may make large changes in their religious beliefs and some may not change at all, it
is anticipated that most students will be more likely to take a middle ground stance by only changing some of
their beliefs to fit their own lives.
UR.19 Looking for the Past in the Present: Ethnoarchaeology of Plant Utilization in Rural Bolivia
Natasha M. Musalem-Perez
Faculty Advisor: Christine Hippert, Sociology and Archaeology
Ethnoarchaeology involves the use of ethnographic and archaeological methodologies in formulating testable
hypotheses regarding past human lifeways, and ethnobotany is the study of people and plants and their
interactions. This research involves the application of both of these fields of study. During the summer of 2008, I
investigated the way a contemporary rural Andean community in Cochabamba, Bolivia uses plants to provide an
interpretive framework for understanding the floral remains from a nearby archaeological site (Pirque Alto) which
I excavated as part of my fieldschool in the summer of 2007 under the direction of Dr. Tim McAndrews and Dr.
Claudia Rivera. My ethnographic research involved: 1) participant observation in daily community activities,
specifically agriculture, where unstructured questions were asked; 2) ten structured interviews with individuals
regarding their specific agricultural methods and plant utilization; and, 3) a focus group, in which particular
details from the individual interviews were discussed for accuracy along with general questions about agriculture
15
and plant utilization. The archaeological research involved taking soil samples from each level of each excavation
unit. Through the standard archaeological processing method of flotation, botanical remains were recovered from
the site. The recovered botanical remains were analyzed by Zulema Terceros under the direction of Drs.
McAndrews and Rivera who have made the botanical data available to me for my study. In this study, I draw
conclusions about plant use at Pirque Alto based on the ethnographic data, the archaeological botanical remains
and literature research. This study therefore represents an ethnoarchaeological interpretation of plant utilization in
the ancient Andes and assesses whether and how plant use changed through time.
UR.20 Progress toward the Synthesis of the Natural Product, 2-Aminoquinoline, and Its Analogs for Use
as Potential Antimicrobials
Maria Drietz, Will Fiers, Nathan Connell, and Bruce Gustafson
Faculty Advisor: Aaron Monte, Chemistry
The natural product, 2-aminoquinoline, was isolated from a wild mushroom, Leucopaxillus albissimus. It was
found that this compound had antimicrobial activity against the type of pathogenic bacteria classified as glucosenon fermenting Gram-negative rods. Bacteria of this type often inhabit the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients and are
also found affecting veterans returning from the Middle East, making the discovery of effective antimicrobials
very relevant. To prepare for pre-clinical drug development and structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies, the
synthesis of gram quantities of 2-aminoquinoline and various analogs was undertaken. So far, the compound of
interest has been synthesized in good yield (53%) using a Horner-Waddsworth-Emmons reaction, which utilizes
the coupling of a nitrile-containing phosphonate to 2-nitrobenzaldehyde, followed by reductive cyclization and
aromatization of the resulting heterocycle. Currently, different methods for nucleophilic aromatic substitution are
being investigated. One of these methods utilizes the creation of N-oxides of 2-chloroquinoline which will then be
heated under reflux with acetamide and potassium carbonate to ~200 °C to see if the yield of this reaction can be
increased. Another method of interest includes the use of a copper catalyst with 2-chloroquinoline using the same
reagents and conditions as the previous reaction. Once a method for the nucleophilic substitution of the chloro
group with the amine group is determined it will be used to create iodo and nitro analogs of 2aminoquinoline. Progress made to date will be presented.
UR.21 Competition between Reed Canary Grass and Silver Maple Seedlings
Matthew Groshek
Faculty Advisor: Meredith Thomsen, Biology
Reed canary grass poses a threat to the floodplain forests of the Upper Mississippi River by preventing forest
regeneration in treefall gaps. Our project focuses on competition between reed canary grass and silver maple, an
important floodplain forest canopy species. We also examined the mechanisms of competition between the two
species. We established replicates of six densities (0, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 individuals) of reed canary grass by
germinating reed canary grass seeds in greenhouse pots and thinning individuals to the desired density. We
measured the availability of moisture, nitrogen, and light across the density gradient. We planted silver maple
seeds into each pot and recorded the number of germinants, living seedlings, seedling height, and seedling leaf
number to assess germination success and seedling competitive ability. Germination and number of living
seedlings was rather uniform across all the reed canary grass densities, while seedling competitive ability was
reduced in the presence of any amount of reed canary grass. Even at very low densities, reed canary grass appears
to limit the growth of silver maple seedlings by decreasing light and moisture availability.
UR.22 Female Contemporary Artists in Bangkok
Devon Browning
Faculty Advisor: Jennifer William-Terpstra, Art
Fifty years ago the contemporary art scene was primarily limited to the scope of the western world. But as the
world became more interconnected, artists from many countries were slowly included in the contemporary art
16
scene. How has this new incorporation affected artists within their own country, and more specifically, how have
female artists found their way in this newly semi-“inclusive” art world? I focused on the contemporary art of Thai
female artists in Bangkok. Joan Kee writes, “The idea that there is a 'contemporary Asian women's art' is
relatively new” (107), and this has proven to be true in my research of contemporary Thai art. In the book The
Arts of Thailand by Steve Van Beek, there is only one female artist mentioned in the entire chapter labeled
“Modern Art,” and women are completely absent from the chapters exploring the rich tradition of ancient art in
Thailand. So, for my research project I interviewed female artists and gallery owners/workers in Bangkok to
understand how these women use their art as a way to come to terms with their identity as contemporary artists in
a country filled with ancient male art. I photographed and documented art shows by and about Thai women while
I was in Bangkok, and I observed the different techniques used to balance their cultural identity with the
international art world. I also compared contemporary male Thai art with contemporary female Thai art while
visiting the galleries, shows and the "street vendor" artists. After all of this research I concluded that women
artists in Bangkok face the same difficulties as their male counterparts within the climate of the international art
world, but they are also facing the difficulty of fitting into a male-dominated art scene within their own country.
UR.23 How Memory and Past Information Impacts Wealth and Consumption
Rachel M. Favorite, Trevor Oswald, and Raymond Leach
Faculty Advisor: Barbara Bennie, Mathematics
We study a game theoretic model of a market economy with symmetric agents who competitively bid for an
endowment of a perishable good, using Nash Equilibrium strategies. This endowment is a random variable, whose
distribution is unknown to the agents, and it is examined from uniform, binomial, and non-parametric
distributions. Agents bid in every stage for infinitely many stages gradually gaining knowledge about the
endowment distributions by way of Bayesian learning. We introduce a new “forgetful” agent, who can remember
only a limited portion of the history of endowments, and investigate how this new agent fairs in the market. Of
particular interest are the differences between the forgetful and non-forgetful agents in terms of their wealth and
consumption.
UR.24 The Darker Side: The Human Mind in Shakespeare’s Macbeth and King Lear
Kurt Wilson
Faculty Advisor: Lalita Pandit, English
William Shakespeare presented viewers, and readers, with vast implications couched within his plays. He opened
viewer’s minds for their own sight, and allowed them to journey along with characters to discover the
unwanted. Shakespeare created characters insane and inhuman to feature in his tragedies of King Lear and
Macbeth. However, Shakespeare encouraged and fostered viewer identification with the characters of these plays,
especially the characters King Lear and Macbeth. The unnatural and natural, the insane and sane become mingled
and the delineation fades blurring the dichotomies of sanity and insanity and the natural and
unnatural. Shakespeare deliberately planned to foster viewer identification with what they viewed as insane and
unnatural. Shakespeare saw the deep, dark parts of the human psyche, the parts that are denied and ignored, and
brought them out. This paper will show how Shakespeare accomplished the task of demonstrating the unwanted
and denied parts of the mind and how he bolstered the viewers into accepting them, instead of shutting
down. Shakespeare wanted people to see that humans, normal humans, are capable of inhumanity and insanity
and wanted the viewers to accept this portion of their mind.
UR.25 Guatemalan Adoption Policies: Who Are They Protecting?
Julie Pitel
Faculty Advisor: Deb Hoskins, Honors Program
The Hague Convention has been ratified in Guatemala without the government having the means to follow
through on the requirements of the Convention. This has upset the adoption process and has interfered with many
17
American families getting their adopted children. While the Convention is designed to protect the adopted
children, countries which have not ratified the rules stated in the Convention are not held to the same standards as
those who have. Guatemala was under pressure to become Hague compliant, but without the means to carry out
the standards presented in the Convention, adoptions from Guatemala have virtually stopped. This is resulting in
more children being abandoned in the country and leaving children in foster homes and orphanages, eventually
making the transition into a new home more traumatizing.
UR.26 La Relación entre el Lenguaje y la Cultura según las Teorías de Wilhelm von Humbolt, Edward
Sapir y Benjamin Whorf
Rachel Kramer
Faculty Advisor: Melissa Wallace, Modern Languages
Whoever has attempted translation has found that it requires much more than knowing more than one language
well. There are few people for whom translation is not difficult, and for years, the experts of various fields have
written work after work about translation and its challenges. This paper presents another debate about the
difficulties of translation, using as a base the arguments of the theorist Wilhelm von Humboldt and the
anthropologists Edward Sapir and Benjamin Whorf. The first part of this essay examines the relationship between
language and culture, according to the experts mentioned. The second part of the paper focuses on the need for a
profound understanding of the cultural context of the work to be translated. I hope to show the close and complex
relationship that exists between language, culture, and the diverse ways of thinking and of viewing the world. In
addition, I hope to show that, because of this relationship, it is exceedingly important to understand the cultural
context of a literary work in order to produce a good translation.
UR.27 The Effects of Trade on Traditional Subsistence Patterns in Eastern Tanzania: The Case of the
Masaai
Shaheen Gutierrez
Faculty Advisor: Susannah Lloyd, Sociology and Archaeology
This paper analyzes the many questions about the nature of the indigenous Masaai tribes, specifically of
subsistence practices today, because only scattered accounts remain from colonial explorers from the 18th, 19th,
and 20th centuries. The Masaai are groups of people that reside in villages scattered throughout eastern Tanzania.
The following interview schedule questions are the research focus questions of this study: What ways are the
Masaai obtaining their food? What are traditional ways of obtaining food? What ways are Tanzanians living on
the Zanzibar Islands obtaining their food? What are traditional ways of obtaining food and other goods for the
people of the Zanzibar Islands? What government policies today impact the ways you are allowed to process,
gather, or trade food and goods? I plan to process, interpret, and analyze the field notes and tape recordings taken
during my observations and interviews conducted with the program's Swahili/English translator. The following
list of steps will be used to process and interpret information obtained during my research: fieldnotes, interviews
of Masaai villagers, coding from focused and selective, analyzing and interpreting of coding themes, and a final
analysis. My direct observation of the Masaai subsistence patterns will allow for comparisons with metropolitan
subsistence patterns of Zanzibar to show how development impacts, or does not impact, once traditional ways of
life for Tanzanians. The goal of this project is to research the effects that development and trade have upon
indigenous tribes in eastern Tanzania, so that anthropologists can use the results of this research to understand
how culture contact around the world increasingly impacts traditional ways of life.
UR.28 A Comparison of Ceramics from Uruk and Susa circa 3000 BC
Kyra Kaercher
Faculty Advisor: David Anderson, Sociology and Archaeology
The study of pottery can be used to provide insight into past cultures. Pottery is ubiquitous on archaeological sites
in the Near East and because of its durability; fragments often survive longer than artifacts made from less-
18
durable materials. In this study, I will use pottery to answer my overall question: Were Mesopotamia and Elam
trading partners from 3000 to 2500 B.C.? Located in present day Iraq, Mesopotamia has evidence for early
domestication of various plants and animals but was lacking certain types of semi-precious stones and ore for
metal production. Elam, in present day Iran, possessed sources of both stones and metals that Mesopotamia did
not have. To compare these two cultures and examine evidence for trade, I will use the city-state of Uruk, in
southern Mesopotamia and Susa, in south-eastern Elam. Uruk and Susa went through similar social changes at
about the same time. They changed from smaller agricultural villages to massive city-states with evidence for
increased class stratification. The rise of class stratification led to people with a surplus of goods, and a desire
among the upper class for exotic items, which in turn led to an increase in trade to acquire them. However, these
expensive items are scarce in the archaeological record and not easily traced. Pottery is unique to cultures and
therefore it is easier to identify trade using pottery. In this study, I will compare pottery from Uruk and Susa using
stylistic attributes of pottery from both city-states. Through this study, I believe that it will be possible to
demonstrate that Mesopotamia and Elam were trading partners from 3000 to 2500 B.C.
UR.29 Integrating Technology into Foreign Language Education
Katy Borden
Faculty Advisor: Jean Janecki, Modern Languages
Foreign language learning has become an important aspect in school programs as educators strive to
internationalize curriculum and communicate with students on a global level. Using technology to present foreign
language learning is an effective way to create authentic instruction and engage students in the lifelong learning
process. However, the increasing availability of technology makes it difficult for instructors to know how and
what to incorporate successfully in their classrooms. As a research study, I plan to investigate various ways to
integrate technology in foreign language education, specifically within Spanish classrooms. I want to explore the
use of podcasts, blogs, Skype, and speaking programs for use in language labs and classrooms. I will investigate
the practicality of using computer software, such as Rosetta Stone, and introduce these programs in classrooms to
gauge both student learning and engagement. I plan to research current language programs at the elementary, high
school, and university level and determine how teachers successfully integrate technology concepts within their
curriculum. I will examine the usability of technology within the classroom and its appropriateness in presenting
language concepts to diverse learners. As a result of my research, I will create an online resource documenting
practical and useful programs for language educators. I plan to present successful ways of incorporating
technology in a foreign language classroom to meet the demands of our global society. This research will assist
educators in developing effective teaching approaches to make language learning relevant and meaningful for all
students. I will also summarize the challenges educators face in terms of implementing technology within the
classroom. As a future educator, I know this research will be beneficial as I examine my own teaching approaches
and work to incorporate technology into my curriculum.
UR.30 The Necessary Role of Madness and Otherness in Brönte's Jane Eyre
Marnie Fisher
Faculty Advisor: Susan Crutchfield, English
In much of the criticism surrounding Bertha Mason in Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre, Bertha is seen only in terms
of Brontë’s title heroine. Any information readers are able to glean regarding Bertha is diluted hearsay passed
from Rochester to Jane. Bertha is the double of Jane, representing the more taboo side that Jane represses, and she
is only there to assert Jane's “feminine consciousness.” It is my assertion that Bertha individually drives the plot
of the novel, more so than Rochester, who is simply reactionary. The necessary dénouement of the novel's plot is
dependent on Bertha's character. I will show that Brontë, in order to portray Jane as the ultimate romantic woman,
needs to present Bertha as the non-woman. According to Judith Butler, “When the category [of women] is
understood as representing a set of values or dispositions, it becomes normative in character and, hence,
exclusionary in principle.” Since Jane is defined as the woman, Bertha thereby is depicted as the non-woman, the
Other, an entity that society needs to shut away and isolate. Only through Jean Rhys’s interpretation of Bertha's
history (as the protagonist Antoinette) in Wide Sargasso Sea are readers able to analyze Bertha's individual
19
history and the beginnings of her relationship with Rochester. In looking at the treatment of madness in both Jane
Eyre and Wide Sargasso Sea, I will show the terms and the necessity of Bertha's alienation and “madness.” By
showing the conditions of Bertha’s perceived madness, and the necessity of her non-woman description, I will
illustrate Bertha’s crucial role in the plot of Jane Eyre.
UR.31 Unnatural Creation, Actual Destruction: Representations of Political and Societal Unrest in
Shelley's Frankenstein and Gilman’s Herland
Kaci O’Connell
Faculty Advisor: Susan Crutchfield, English
In both Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s Herland, the authors utilize unnatural
procreation processes to analyze the political and social unrest that plagued their individual societies. Shelley
wrote Frankenstein in the aftermath of the French Revolution and during a time of imbalanced industrial
development. In the novel, she employs an unnatural masculine procreation process as a metaphor for the
excesses of the Revolution and the ideology of preservation of self that characterized the ensuing
industrialization. Writing contemporaneously with the start of World War I, Gilman creates a feminine utopia in
Herland. She constructs an all-female society where even the process of procreation occurs independently of
males. In doing so, Gilman counteracts the stereotypically masculine propensity for war and destruction that was
prevalent at the time. In my exploration of these contexts, I will investigate why each author chose to use a highly
gendered abnormal creation process to critique her political and social situation. By comparing the maledominated Frankenstein’s ideology of preservation of self (emphasizing the thrill of the moment of creation) with
the overwhelmingly female Herland’s philosophy of preservation of society (emphasizing the thrill of creating a
better future), I will provide insight into the social and political desires and pressures that each author encountered
during times of societal instability. In doing so, I will illustrate how a fictional unnatural creation process can be
used as both an example of and a rebuttal against actual war and destruction.
UR.32 Thermodynamic Properties of the GluR2 Ligand-Binding Core Using 5-Substituted
Halogenated Willardiine Agonists
Brad Hartl
Faculty Advisor: Adrienne P. Loh, Chemistry
The GluR2 protein is one of many ionotropic glutamate receptors found in the mammalian nervous system. Four
receptor molecules combine to form ion channels through cell membranes that are opened when certain small
molecules (ligands) are bound to the receptor. In the central nervous system, these channels facilitate most of the
fast excitatory synaptic transmission. Thus, glutamate receptors play a critical role in the development and
homeostasis of a healthy nervous system. Mutations of this protein can cause a variety of serious neurological
disorders, including stroke and schizophrenia. A variety of ligands act as agonists (activators) for GluR2,
including the 5-substituted halogenated willardiines. These molecules have been shown to exhibit a variety of
different affinities for GluR2, producing different degrees of ion conductance when complexed with GluR2, and
inducing different GluR2 structures. For the present study, we are interested in the thermodynamic stability of the
complexes of GluR2 with three different willardiines: (S)-5-fluorowillardiine, (S)-5-chlorowillardiine, and (S)-5iodowillardiine. In order to be able to accurately quantify the ligand concentration, we have measured the
extinction coefficient for each of the willardiines and found all three ligands to have extinction coefficients on the
order of 9000 M-1 cm-1 at ~280 nm. The stability of each GluR2-willardiine complex will be determined using
differential scanning calorimetry. As the complexes are slowly heated in a calorimeter, the protein unfolds and
releases the ligand. The greater the temperature at which this event happens, the more stable the protein-ligand
complex. Results from the experiments should lead to a better understanding of the relationship between ligand
binding and receptor function, and ultimately guide the design of better drug targets for GluR2.
20
UR.33 A Comparison of Iconography from Northwestern Costa Rica and the Mixtec Culture of
Central Mexico
Amy Schott
Faculty Advisor: Tim McAndrews, Sociology and Archaeology
Studies on Mesoamerican trade and migration to Costa Rica do not fully explain the nature and extent of the
influence that Mesoamerican cultures had on cultures in Costa Rica. There has been a consensus among
researchers that the iconography on certain types of ceramics from the Late Polychrome (A.D. 1000-1550) in
northwestern Costa Rica shows a link to cultures in Central Mexico. In particular, it has been said that Vallejo
Polychrome and Luna Ware show stylistic evidence of a link to the Mixtec culture. While several possible reasons
have been given for this connection, there is no definite conclusion as to what the connection between the two
regions looks like. My project compares the iconography of ceramic types from Greater Nicoya (northwestern
Costa Rica and southwestern Nicaragua) to the iconography of various art forms of the Mixtec culture in Mexico
in order to investigate what the connection looks like in the archaeological record. This will help to further
evaluate the possible hypotheses for the Mixtec influence in Costa Rica.
UR.34 Kinetic and Kinematic Data Related to Increased Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tensions from
Knee Modeling During Landing
Brad Hartl
Faculty Advisors: Thomas Kernozek, Health Professions, and Robert Ragan, Physics
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are the most frequently occurring knee ligament injury in sport. ACL
reconstruction is a costly procedure and the associated recovery commonly lasts over six months. To better
understand the causes leading to these injuries, a MATLAB based knee model was developed. The model
incorporates input from cadaveric studies, three dimensional kinematic and kinetic data during landing, and also
electromyography data from selected muscle groups. Twenty subjects each performed a drop landing trial five
times. Data from the five trials of each individual were averaged and then time normalized with respect to heel
impact. The data from these trials were input into the knee model and an estimated ACL tension was generated.
Discrete kinematic and kinetic variables were then correlated with ACL tension. Determining the relationship
between typical discrete kinematic and kinetic variables and peak ACL tension will allow researchers to
determine which variables best predict ACL tension. This analysis may also facilitate the sorting out of outlying
data points, further increasing the accuracy of the model. Statistical analysis will be performed with the use of
SPSS. Variables to be investigated include: peak sagittal, frontal and rotational knee joint moments, peak sagittal
knee joint reaction forces, peak sagittal ankle moments, hip angles, knee and ankle joint angles at initial contact
and at maximums, and peak vertical ground reaction forces. The expected results are that knee angles will
correlate with increased ACL tension more than other variables.
UR.35 An Evaluation of the IRT Models through Monte Carlo Simulation
Tyler Baur and Dylan Lukes
Faculty Advisor: Sherwin Toribio, Mathematics
Item response theory (IRT) models are commonly used in the realm of educational and psychological testing. The
three commonly used IRT models for responses that are graded as either correct or incorrect are the Oneparameter, Two-parameter, and Three parameter IRT models. These models are used to calibrate standardized
tests and to assess human latent traits such as student's overall intelligence, vocabulary prowess, or mathematical
ability, using these calibrated tests. The effectiveness of these tests is regularly debated by students, especially
those who are required to take these examinations, as their future may depend on how they are assessed by these
IRT models. One good example is the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), which are taken by students and used by
universities to assist them in the selection of applicants to their graduate program. The main objective of this
research was to study the validity of each IRT model in assessing students' ability. In particular, the effect of the
sample size and exam length to the accuracy of the estimates of students' ability and item characteristics are
21
studied. The results are based on an extensive Monte Carlo simulation study done using the statistical software R.
Through these simulation studies, we hope to discover the IRT model that is most effective in calibrating
standardized tests and in assessing student's raw abilities, and the acceptable exam length and sample size to
obtain accurate parameter estimates. Preliminary results indicate that the Three-parameter model is problematic as
the estimates of the item characteristics (difficulty, discrimination, and guessing parameters) obtained using this
model are biased.
UR.36 Microfinances in Rural Ecuador: A Case Study of la Cooperativa de Ahorro y Crédito
Desarrollo de los Pueblos CODESARROLLO Ltda.
Michael Beilman
Faculty Advisor: Donna Anderson, Economics
This research studies the Microfinance sector in rural Ecuador, a tool currently implemented in developing
countries to provide access to credit to members of society historically excluded from the financial sector.
Specifically this project investigates the recent trend in commercial banks down-scaling and acting as competition
to microfinance institutions [MFIs]. Critics of this trend fear that it has led to a mission drift amongst current
MFIs away from their social mission of serving the poorest and hardest to reach members of society due to
associated costs and risks. This project investigates such claims with the use of observations in addition to
interviews conducted throughout a 7-week internship with “la Cooperativa de Ahorro y Crédito Desarrollo de los
Pueblos CODESARROLLO Ltda” [The Cooperative of Savings and Credit Development of the Villages
CODEVELOPMENT].
UR.37 Empowering Women: Self-Employed Women’s Association’s Alternative Business Model
Vinisha Bhatia
Faculty Advisor: John Betton, Management
The Self-Employed Women’s Association has done pioneering work in representing self-employed women in the
Indian labor market, starting a women's movement, and starting economic development at a grass-roots level. Its
unique business model is different to the traditional corporate business models that are often mentioned in
management textbooks. In many corporate bodies, power is distributed from top down, where as in SEWA power
comes not from the managing body of the organization, but from the trade groups which it organizes. Although,
SEWA’s model can be said to be an unusual one, it has been very successful in its mission to improve the lives of
many marginalized workers it serves. By traveling to Ahemdabad, India, I further researched this alternative
model. I examined the communications structure of SEWA first hand and accessed the mechanisms used in what
is very effective organization. I interviewed the participants (many of whom are illiterate) in their native Gujarati
in order to record their own narrative of their experience with SEWA. The research will document two types of
data, first the structure of SEWA and its communications and power house system. Second, collect ethnographic
data from structured interviews. This is a qualitative research that studies the unique structure of the organization,
with intentions of sharing the knowledge and findings regarding this model to the main stream population of the
United States.
UR.38 Post-Colonial Imbrications in Shakespeare's The Tempest
Andrew Depies
Faculty Advisor: Lalita Pandit, English
William Shakespeare’s The Tempest is a tragic-comedy in which the protagonist Prospero has manipulated
circumstances for his designs on an uninhabited island. First performed in 1611 and published in 1623, the play in
many ways is less about the story of a storm, an island, and a happy ending than it is about the enigmatic
individuals in the play. Due to the dominance of postcolonial theory in the last twenty five to thirty years, reading
Prospero as the prototype of a colonial master and Caliban as his slave has become a common practice. Meredith
Skura correctly argues that to say post-colonialism is not the focal point “is not to deny that the play has any
22
relation to its context but to suggest that the relation is problematic” (306). My contention is that a postcolonial
interpretation of the play is appealing and plausible, but not absolute. In the proposed presentation, I should like to
examine The Tempest from a post-colonial base with regard to the individual, but argue that the play is organized
around various overlapping models for which the simulated colonial situation serves as a central perspective. My
aim is to show that The Tempest does not in absolute terms lend itself to one interpretation or another, but
demonstrates a combination of cohesive models that overlap in the overall synthesis of the play.
UR.39 Persuasion, Symbols, and Alfajores: A Qualitative Study of Unique Advertising Approaches in
Argentina
Gina Lessard
Faculty Advisor: Scott Dickmeyer, Communication Studies
This study was conducted to gain a deeper understanding of how symbols are used in Argentine advertising and
how the people of Argentina interpret these symbols. Expanding on past research, the researcher took a deeper
look at how identification is achieved with the use of symbols. The researcher investigated a particularly popular
brand of desert products called Havanna alfajores. Because of the immense popularity of the Havanna
organization, the researcher interviewed 300 Argentine participants about their experiences with Havanna
alfajores. Employing Strauss & Corbin's (1990) data analysis technique, the constant comparative analysis, the
researcher engaged in a structured and rigorous process of combing the messages from the interviews into five
themes that addressed the research questions. The five themes that emerged from the data analysis were: the Sense
of Trust that Havanna provides, Havanna facilitates relationships, Havanna is Symbol of Escape, Havanna is the
Taste of Argentina, and Havanna Packaging Represents a Gift. The results of this study indicate that Havanna
alfajores' marketing effectively established identification with consumers to the point that they felt a relationship
with the company and product. These findings extend Gennaro’s (2007) contention that the majority of meanings
humans attach to symbols are not innate. Humans learn meaning as they grow into adulthood while the meanings
are passed along members of a culture to younger generations.
UR.40 A Phenomenological Interpretation of Descartes
Kristin Taylor
Faculty Advisor: Omar Rivera, Philosophy
Phenomenology questions the basic foundations of Modernity. In particular, it challenges Descartes' attempt to
found the scientific method with absolute certainty. Phenomenology is defined by the work of Husserl,
Heidegger, and Merleau-Ponty. Even though each of them developed their own way within Phenomenology, their
theories are determined by a critique of the Cartesian method. For them, Descartes’ text at issue is “Meditations
on First Philosophy.” The objective of this paper is to show an alternative interpretation of Descartes to the one
that have shaped Modernity. In order to do this, it is necessary to show Phenomenology’s main critique of
Descartes and also show how it arises from Descartes’ Meditations one, two, three, four, and six
UR.41 Fukú y el Fantasma de Trujillo: La Construcción de la Identidad Dominicana-Americana en The
Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao
Rachel Kramer
Faculty Advisor: Donald Socha, Modern Languages
The construction of cultural identity has been a popular topic for those who study Latinos of the United States.
Experts have written a plethora of investigations about Chicanos, Cubans, and Puerto Ricans, and how they
construct their identity and integrate with the dominant Anglo-Saxon culture of the country. The situation of
Dominican immigrants and their descendents, however, has been practically ignored in academic literature
compared with other studies about this phenomenon. Fortunately, Junot Díaz, who won a Pulitzer Prize for his
first novel The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao illustrates the construction of identity of Dominican-Americans
in New Jersey. Specifically, this essay examines Oscar Wao’s contribution to the study of Dominican-Americans
23
in three different areas: the construction of cultural, historical, and individual identity as dominated by Trujillo’s
ghost; the conflictive identity that Dominican-Americans have due to their relationship with the international
politics of the United States; and “hypersexualized” machismo as the dominant influence in the construction of
masculine identity of young Dominican-American males in the United States. (Presented in Spanish).
UR.42 International Initiative of Midwest Managers
Julie Palacheck
Faculty Advisor: Davide Secchi, Management
Today’s businesses operate in a global economy. Businesses send employees overseas to make deals or to expand
their market, putting those employees in situations that may be unfamiliar to them because of business practices in
other cultures (Donaldson, 1997). Culture, for the purpose of this study, is defined as socially transmitted
behavior patterns pertaining to acceptable business practices (dictionary.com). Some knowledge of cultures
around the world is required to interact and operate outside of U.S. borders. It is also needed, increasingly, to
conduct business with foreign companies within U.S. borders (Doz, Santos and Williamson, 2001). Do managers
from the Midwest province have high or low awareness of other cultures, or are they stuck in the U.S. culture of
business? The La Crosse, Wisconsin, area is a good example of a typical Midwest setting due to its small towns,
and relatively small businesses. The objective of this paper is to provide a model to analyze managers’ awareness
of international diversity. For this purpose, the paper presents propositions and explains the methodology of this
research. A survey that poses hypothetical situation questions to managers is developed. Each situation forces the
manager to face a different way to interpret business practice. This research would contribute an aggregate
estimate of the international initiative of La Crosse area managers as a proxy of the U.S. Midwest. I anticipate that
the results will show the overall awareness of accepted international business practices is low. Hopefully, this will
prompt area managers to educate their selves and their employees on this topic.
UR.43 A Comparative Analysis of Edmund Husserl’s and Aristotle’s Theories of Time
Michael Brown
Faculty Advisor: Omar Rivera, Philosophy
An Aristotelian influence is pervasive throughout Edmund Husserl’s writings, and specifically throughout his
writings on time. The goal of this study is to elucidate the major points in Husserl’s analyses of time (specifically,
The Phenomenology of Internal Time-Consciousness) where he draws influence from Aristotle, as well as the
most prominent points of divergence from the Aristotelian tradition.
UNDERGRADUATE POSTER PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
U.1
Studying at the “Library”: An Observational Study of Touch Behavior and Flirtation in Bar
Settings
Roxanne Helmeid
Faculty Advisor: Anthony Docan, Communication Studies
This study examined the role that nonverbal touch plays in eliciting flirtatious attraction to others in the specific
bar setting. Literature on flirtatious touch behaviors indicates that there are numerous flirting motives
(Henningsen, 2008) and cues (Jones & Yarbrough, 1985), and that touch is an extremely powerful cue that is
commonly utilized to signal interest. The many types of touch (e.g. hugging, kissing, arm around shoulder, and
hand on knee) are not only initiated differently between men and women, but are also drastically interpreted
differently, reiterating that nonverbal touch is ambiguous. Flirtatious touch behaviors are also contextual and
apparent in the specific bar setting. To date, flirting behavior in a bar, a common environment for young adults to
frequent and interact with others (Lannutti & Camero, 2007) has not been studied. In order to better understand
24
the dynamics of touch and flirtation in the bar setting, naturalistic observation was used to study the specific types
of touch used in bar settings, similarities and differences between men’s and women’s initiation of flirtatious
touches, and the general responses for each flirtatious touch cue. The findings indicated that the sexes differed in
initiation of specific touch cues. Men, for example, were more likely to touch women on more sensuous zones
like the waist and small of the back. Implications of these findings, as well as studying human interaction in bar
settings are explored in the discussion.
U.2
A Model of Knee Muscles Forces Using Kinematic and Electromyography Data
Katlin Genthe and Joseph Lanska
Faculty Advisor: Robert Ragan, Physics
Non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries during landing and cutting sports are prevalent in high
school and collegiate athletes. Females especially are four to six times more likely than males to sustain these
ACL injuries. Recently an inverse dynamics-based computer model of the knee was used by Kernozek and Ragan
to study ACL forces during human drop landings from motion capture. This model used kinematic and kinetic
data from human landing trials as well as electromyography data from maximum muscle contraction trials to
estimate muscle, ligament, and bony forces in the knee. In the present study, muscle forces of the quadriceps,
hamstrings, and gastrocnemius were estimated in an electromyography driven computer model simulated using
MatLab with kinematic and electromyography data. The muscle forces predicted by the electromyography driven
model can be compared with the calculated forces of the inverse dynamics-based model. Concurrence of results
supports the validity of both models; conversely, variance would imply that one or both models require
reevaluation. Muscle lengths were obtained using Delp’s musculoskeletal model and muscle forces were obtained
using Hill's muscle activation model. This model takes into account nonlinear activation, pennation angle, muscle
length, and velocity dependency of muscle forces. Maximum muscle forces during landing were found using
electromyography and maximum isometric contractions of the hamstrings. It is anticipated that the current model
will yield muscle forces statistically similar to the forces observed in the inverse dynamic model. Deviations from
the inverse dynamic model will be further investigated.
U.3
Effect of Exercise Protocol on Measurement of Gross Mechanical Efficiency during Cycling
Ezekiel Reynolds and Breeann Lefebvre
Faculty Advisor: Carl Foster, Exercise and Sport Science
Gross Mechanical Efficiency (GE), together with maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) and ventilatory threshold
(VT), is one of the primary contributors to cycling performance. However, since measurement of GE is based on
measurement of steady state exercise VO2, choosing the appropriate power output depends on knowledge of
exercise capacity from a maximal exercise capacity test. Because of concerns about persistent elevation of VO2
during the recovery following maximal effort exercising, an additional exercise session is often required to
measure GE, which is not convenient of laboratory time. Purpose: This study compared GE measured either in a
separate session (RESTED) or 10 minutes following the completion of a maximal effort test (PostMax). Methods:
Healthy, physically active subjects (n=9) performed two steady state exercise bouts of 10 minute duration at 50%
of maximal power output with GE calculated from mechanical power output, VO2, and respiratory exchange
ratio. One exercise bout was performed 10 minutes following a maximal effort incremental cycling test, with 10
minutes of low intensity exercise performed for recovery. The other exercise bout was performed directly
following a low intensity warm-up. GE was compared using repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Although
steady state VO2 (1.93 +/-0.30 vs 1.81+/-0.27*min-1) and HR (147+/-19 vs 140+/-20bpm) were significantly
(p<0.05) higher PostMax vs RESTED, there was no significant difference in GE (17.4+/-2 vs 18.1+/-1.8%). The
correlation between GE PostMax vs Rested (r=0.84) suggested that GE within individuals was consistent between
conditions. Conclusions: The results suggest that recover from a maximal incremental exercise bout is adequate
after 10 minutes of low intensity exercise such that the measurement of GE is not compromised. As such, the data
suggest that GE can reasonably be measured in the same exercise test session as VO2max and VT.
25
U.4
Grand Guignol: In Living Horror
Jonathan Staats
Faculty Advisor: Walter Elder and Beth Cherne, Theatre Arts
This project is intended to research the history and plays of Grand-Guignol, and use this information to write,
direct, and produce two short plays in the typical style of Grand-Guignol. Further this project will also develop
the methods and devices to create realistic stage effects before a live audience. This project will also assess the
relevancy of this form of theatre to today's audience and how it compares to other similar forms of contemporary
entertainment. If this project meets the objectives of a) being comparable, b) being relevant, then there is
a possibility of resurgence.
U.5
High Spatial Resolution Narrow-band Imaging of an HI Shell Discovered with SETHI
Aaron Willcutt
Faculty Advisor: Shauna Sallmen, Physics
The majority of space between luminous objects in our Galaxy is not truly empty but is instead filled with a
diffuse mixture of gas and dust called the interstellar medium (ISM). Massive stars die in supernova explosions
which create disturbances in the ISM. As the shock from the supernova expands, it creates a bubble or shell in the
ISM. The outflowing material, enriched in heavy elements like those necessary for Earth-like planets, mixes with
the surrounding material and is recycled into new stars. Although several models explain numerous aspects of the
ISM, the detailed processes by which it recycles material are not fully understood. Observing these shells at
different wavelengths gives us a picture of the gas at various temperatures and physical conditions. This helps us
explore how expanding material cools and mixes with the ambient ISM. We present a high-resolution map of Hα
emission from warm ionized hydrogen for one such shell and compare to images of the shell in cooler neutral
hydrogen (HI). This shell, at galactic coordinates (l,b) ~ (56. 5°, -5.5°), was found in the neutral hydrogen SETHI
radio dataset. The Hα images were taken at Kitt Peak National Observatory using the WIYN 0.9-m telescope
utilizing the MOSAIC camera. Individual images were corrected for instrumental effects, then stacked into a
single map of ionized hydrogen in the shell. In general, Hα emission is strongest in the regions where the neutral
hydrogen wall of the shell contains gaps, indicating warm gas in this region has not yet cooled. The data reduction
processes and detailed analysis will be presented.
U.6
A Computational Study of Isomerism in Iron(III) Hydroxamate Complexes
Patrick Cassidy
Faculty Advisor: Janet Kirsch, Chemistry
Siderophores are a family of complexes that are essential to iron transport in biological systems. Although many
studies have been carried out on different kinds of siderophores, most of these studies seem to ignore the identity
of the metal centers and focus instead only on the ligands. The goal of this project is to provide an explanation for
the preferred structures of a group of siderophores with the general formula M(aha)3 (M = Fe3+ or Cr3+, aha =
aceto- or benzo- substituted hydroxamates). These M(aha)3 complexes can crystallize in either a fac or a mer
isomer, but experiments have shown that the fac isomer is much more commonly observed. We will analyze the
crystal structures of these complexes using Hartree-Fock calculations. Hartree-Fock theory is an ab-initio
computational method that can be used to calculate the total energy of a complex. The output from these
calculations can also be used to generate three-dimensional plots of the molecular orbitals that make up each
complex. By considering the effects of changing both the metals and the ligands in M(aha)3 complexes on their
total energies and molecular orbitals, our results should allow us to explain the experimentally observed
preference for fac M(aha)3 isomers.
26
U.7
Examination of the Suppression of cdc7-1 by the bob1 Mutation in Meiosis in Saccharomyces
cerevisiae
Shannon L. Kordus
Faculty Advisor: Anne M. Galbraith, Biology
Mitosis is a cell division process that human cells use to divide to form identical cells. Meiosis, a second cell
division process, leads to the formation of sperm or egg cells in humans. Any mistakes that are made during either
of these processes can lead to certain types of cancers and birth defects. Therefore, understanding how these two
cell division processes work is important. Saccharomyces cerevisiae, or Baker's yeast, is a useful model organism
for studying cell division in humans. Single-celled yeast undergo both mitosis and meiosis in much the same way
that human cells do, even using many of the same genes. It is known that a gene called CDC7 is required for both
mitosis and meiosis in yeast. cdc7 mutations are suppressed by a second mutation, bob1, in mitosis, but it is
unknown whether this suppression also occurs in meiosis. To better understand the role of CDC7 in meiosis, three
strains of yeast were studied: a wild type non-mutant strain, a cdc7 temperature sensitive mutant, and a cdc7 bob1
double mutant. All strains were grown in rich media at 22oC and then transferred to a starvation media to induce
meiosis. All three strains completed meiosis at 22oC, but only the wild type strain completed meiosis at the
restrictive temperature of 35oC. The two mutant strains were examined to determine if they were able to undergo
DNA replication during meiosis and the two meiotic divisions. The mutants were also examined for their ability
to form viable spores. Results of these analyses will be presented.
U.8
Nutrient Limitation of Periphyton in Western Wisconsin Streams
Shane Symmank
Faculty Advisor: Eric Strauss, Biology
In stream ecosystems, autotrophic production can be limited by the availability of nutrients including nitrogen
(N), phosphorus (P), or both N and P. The impact of nutrient limitation can be felt throughout the food web as
autotrophs like periphyton act as primary producers, providing energy to a vast assortment of organisms. The
purpose of this study is to determine if periphyton growing in Western Wisconsin streams is limited by the
availability of either N, P, or is co-limited by both N and P. To assess nutrient limitation we will be using nutrient
diffusing substrates (NDS) specifically designed for this type of study. Each NDS is filled with an agar/nutrient
mixture of either control (no nutrients), +N, +P, or +N+P. The agar/nutrient mixture is topped with a fritted glass
disc that acts as a means for the nutrients to diffuse into the stream, as well as a surface for periphyton to colonize
and grow. Twelve replicates of each NDS will be incubated in a stream for 18-21 days. After the incubation
period the algal biomass present on each fritted glass disc will be measured spectrophotometrically and recorded
as chlorophyll a concentration in mg/cm2. Water samples will also be analyzed to determine the molar ratios of
dissolved inorganic nitrogen to soluble reactive phosphorus to predict potential nutrient limiting
conditions. Research conducted in the summer of 2008 using this method showed several streams with significant
(p < 0.05) co-limitation. Combined results from this study will indicate nutrient limiting conditions during winter
base-flow months, and provide data that will act as a reference of baseline conditions for future studies.
U.9
Peak Flexor Moments on Lumbar Spine when Performing Lifting and Lowering Tasks with a
Brace and without a Brace
Angela Holan
Faculty Advisor: Thomas Kernozek, Health Professions
Controversial evidence has been found as to whether back braces help to prevent low back injuries related to
lifting. Our purpose was to examine the peak moments on the lumbar spine when lifting and lowering with and
without the use of a back brace. A repeated measures design was implemented with five healthy male and female
participants. A 3-D electromagnetic tracking system measured the motions with sensors affixed to select
anatomical landmarks. A computer model consisting of seven body segments was used to estimate the peak spinal
moments during lift/lowering using a 13.63 kg load. The peak trunk flexor moments from each of the three trials
27
were determined. Movements were performed in two ways; a more static task and a more dynamic lift/lowering
task. During the static lift, the load was lifted off of a force platform, brought to a comfortable carrying position,
and then lowered onto the force platform. The dynamic lift was similar, but the load was carried one meter behind
the participant and lowered to a second force platform. The rate of the movement was paced to a metronome at 40
beats per minute. A repeated measures analysis of variance with two within factors (brace and lift/lower) was
performed separately on the mean peak flexor moments for the static and dynamic tasks. There was a brace effect
(p < 0.05) on moments during static lift/lowering with and without a brace. There was no difference (p > 0.05)
between lift/lowering moments irrespective of brace use or brace by lift/lowering interaction (p > 0.05). Similar
findings were observed during the more dynamic lifting scenario. It may be beneficial to use a back brace to
reduce peak moments when performing static and dynamic lift/lowering tasks.
U.10
Who Seeks Help? A Global Perspective on Attitudes toward Seeking Professional Psychological
Help: Vietnam, Hong Kong, and the United States
Thomas Jubert
Faculty Advisor: Dung Ngo, Psychology
The following research project will investigate cultural differences in relation to attitudes towards seeking
professional psychological help as well as cultural adaptations while immersed within a foreign population.
Populations included in the study include Vietnamese, Hong Kong Chinese, American, and Vietnamese-American
college students. Previous studies have investigated specific cultural perceptions of help-seeking; however, the
purpose of the present study is to examine cross-cultural differences and the reshaping of ideologies towards helpseeking behaviors. Participants will complete the Fisher & Turner measure Attitudes towards Seeking
Professional Psychological Help (1970). After completing the instrument a randomly selected group of
participants will be asked various open-ended questions based off of specific questions posed in the Fisher &
Turner measure. A study incorporating both quantitative and qualitative knowledge allows researchers to
accurately explain and produce educated inferences in regards to research findings. I predict college students
residing in traditionally westernized societies will be more open to help-seeking than college students residing in
traditionally eastern societies. I also predict students raised in traditionally eastern societies that are temporarily
studying abroad within a traditionally westernized society will become more open to help-seeking. If the
hypotheses are supported, it suggests effective mechanisms that promote help-seeking behavior, a crucial part in
the identification and eradication of mental illnesses.
U.11
Protein Adsorption on DNA Thin Films: Implications for Hybridization Sensors
Anna Hatch
Faculty Advisor: Aric Opdahl, Chemistry
Surface based DNA hybridization sensors are an appealing tool for geneticists working to identify possible
mutations in the genetic code. These devices are most often used in ideal conditions, with purified DNA/RNA
samples which are in the absence of proteins and lipids. To better understand factors affecting the performance of
DNA sensors in real environments, our research group is systematically studying (1) interactions between proteins
and various types of DNA coated surfaces and (2) the extent to which proteins interfere with hybridization.
Specifically, we use surface plasmon resonance (SPR) imaging spectroscopy to characterize the adsorption of two
proteins, bovine serum albumin (BSA) and lysozyme, to DNA modified gold surfaces. SPR is a label free
technique used to quantify interactions between molecules in solution and molecules attached to surfaces. Our
DNA surfaces are prepared in two ways: one where DNA lies flat on the gold and one where DNA is oriented
upright. We find that DNA films with a flat orientation tend to be more resistant than films where the DNA is
upright, especially with lysozyme, where the DNA-protein interaction has an electrostatic component. We have
characterized hybridization both in the presence and absence of these proteins and find that even in the presence
of small amounts protein (<0.1 mg/mL) DNA hybridization efficiency is reduced. Currently, we are quantifying
the relationship between protein concentration and DNA hybridization efficiency and extending experiments to
study hybridization in fetal bovine serum, a complex mixture mimicking a real environment.
28
U.12
Normative Values for VO2max in Physically Active Individuals
Racheal Kasper
Faculty Advisors: Carl Foster and Christopher Dodge, Exercise and Sport Science
Given the increase in sedentary lifestyles and obesity in the U.S., the known value of VO2max as a prognostic
index of survival, and the tendency for lifelong fitness and activity patterns to be established by the young adult
years, it seems desirable to evaluate age/sex predictive equations for VO2max. Evaluating norms relative to
activity status seems particularly important as many of the earlier population norms were established in sedentary
individuals and extensive recent evidence suggests that the reference human should be physically
active. Purpose: This study documents VO2max in a large number of healthy, physically active students
(males=281, females=248). Methods: As part of program entry requirements, physical education and sports
administration students performed a physical fitness test, including directly measured VO2max during treadmill
walking/running. The mean VO2max in males (49.7+6.4 vs 48.5+1.07 ml/kg) and females (43.4+5.4 vs 36.1+0.6
ml/kg) represented (102+13 and 120+15%) vs norms published by ACSM. In the males 58/89 (65%) and females
11/20 (55%) of observed VO2max values lower than the ACSM predicted were associated with overweight
(BMI>25). Conclusions: The results suggest that the ACSM norms represent reasonable targets for VO2max in
healthy, physically active subjects, particularly in normal weight individuals.
U.13
Experimental Determination of the Ammonium Sulfate/Malonic Acid/Water Ternary Phase
Diagram
Jason Schroeder
Faculty Advisor: Keith Beyer, Chemistry
The formation of cirrus clouds can be directly affected by aerosols present in the atmosphere. While many
systems consisting of inorganic aerosols have been widely studied, work has only recently been undertaken to
study systems consisting of organic and mixed inorganic/organic aerosols. Our research group has extensively
studied the ice region of the mixed inorganic/organic Ammonium Sulfate/Malonic Acid/Water ternary system
using experimental differential scanning calorimetry and IR spectroscopy of thin films. Our data was primarily
collected at temperatures below 298 K, malonic acid concentrations below 0.50 total mass fraction, and
ammonium sulfate concentrations below 0.40 total mass fraction. Using this data, we have generated a ternary
liquid/solid phase diagram which can be used to determine which phases of matter will be present in the system at
different compositions and temperatures. We have directly compared our experimental data to data generated
using the Aerosol Inorganics Model. This thermodynamic model can be used to predict aerosol composition at
varying atmospheric conditions. Since there is very little existing data for the ammonium sulfate/malonic
acid/water ternary system, our experimental data can be directly used to make corrections and improve the
accuracy of this model. This research will prove to be of increasing value as we look to understand the role clouds
play climate systems.
U.14
Transracial Adoption and Communication: Exploring the Influence of Whiteness on the
Communication of Korean Adoptees
Brenna LeClair
Faculty Advisor: Michael Tollefson, Communication Studies
This study was conducted to find a deeper meaning of what it means to be a Korean adoptee of White American
parents. Building on previous communication research, the researcher examined the ways in which a transracial
adoptee's cultural-racial identity influences communication through different racial and cultural contexts. Ten
Korean adoptees were interviewed over instant messaging services. The interview questions explored the
background and socialization of adoptees, the extent to which they felt Whiteness, the influence of culture on
communication and perception, and interpersonal relationships. The study was qualitative in nature and data was
examined using constant comparative analysis. The researcher combined the messages into seven categories: I
have White American culture; Culture influences the context in which communication occurs; Race and culture
29
are not as important as accepting and understanding; Achievements and success should be based on merit and the
opportunities one chooses to take; My racial heritage and ancestry has no significant influence on my life in
America; Cultural diversity and awareness is important; I've had unique experiences due to my transracial adoptee
status. The research uncovered ways in which adoptees identify themselves, how culture influences interaction,
and the experiences resulting from the unique cultural-racial identity of Korean adoptees.
U.15
Effect of Acid Tolerance Gene Mutants on Type 1 Pilus Expression in Escherichia coli
Mao Cheng
Faculty Advisor: William Schwan, Microbiology
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the main cause of urinary tract infections in humans. Strains of UPEC
need type 1 fimbriae to colonize the urinary tract. Previous work has shown that acidic pHs lower expression of
type 1 pili structures. This study focused on the role that acid tolerance gene products may play in the expression
of fim genes that ultimately affect type 1 pilus expression. A panel of Escherichia coli acid tolerance gene
mutants and a wild type strain were transformed with single copy number plasmids containing either a fimB-lacZ
or fimE-lacZ fusion. Transformed strains were grown under different pH environments and different osmolarities.
β-galactosidase expression was measured for each strain and for the various conditions, comparing the panel of
mutants strains to the wild type strain to determine if mutations in acid tolerance genes had any effect on fimB and
fimE transcription level. Of the mutants tested, the gadE and gadX mutants transformed with the fimE-lacZ fusion
had an increase in β -galactosidase activity. Complementing the gadE mutant brought the β-galactosidase activity
back to a wild type level. The increase in β-galactosidase activity may suggest that the acid tolerance gene
products GadE and GadX are repressors of the fimE gene. This suggests that GadE and GadX could be affecting
bacteria colonizing the acidic murine or human urinary tract.
U.16
Isolation and Identification of Antimicrobial Compounds in Black Walnuts
Nate Irvine
Faculty Advisor: Mike Winfrey, Microbiology
Like all other forms of life, bacteria adapt to their environment, which has led to some bacteria developing a
resistance to current antibiotics. One source of new antimicrobials is plants, such as black walnuts, which have
been reported to have antimicrobial activity against fungi and other organisms. The purpose of this research
project is to determine if black walnut hulls have antibacterial compounds and if so, to identify the chemicals and
which types of bacteria they are effective against. An extract of the black walnut hulls was made by grinding the
hulls and using an organic solvent to extract the chemicals present in the hulls. The extract was tested for
antimicrobial activity by disk diffusion assay against four strains of bacteria (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus
aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The active compounds were purified from nonactive compounds present in the hull extract using thin-layer chromatography, gel filtration, and high performance
liquid chromatography. The structure of the compound was then determined using both nuclear magnetic
resonance spectroscopy and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The hull extract exhibited antimicrobial
activity against the four test strains. At least two antimicrobial compounds were detected in black walnut hulls.
We have isolated and identified the structure of one of the compounds and are currently working to determine the
compound's MIC and to identify the structure of the second compound as well as its MIC. The results of the
research thus far are quite promising as they may lead to new antibiotics to treat previously non-treatable
infections.
U.17
The Response of the International Community to the Rwanda Genocide
Stephanie Rohr
Faculty Advisor: Andrew Hamilton, History
The aim of this project is to examine the international community's response to the Rwanda genocide between
April 6, 1994 and July 1, 1994, during which the major campaign of killing took place, with a specific focus on
30
the United States. It also assesses the aftermath of the genocide in terms of the inner workings and procedures of
the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR). By studying the response of the international community
both during the genocide and in the aftermath, with a specific focus on the ICTR, I gained knowledge of the way
the international community views the genocide and the value or importance it places on the genocide. To
accurately evaluate the international community's position during the Rwandan genocide I studied current
literature on the genocide, U.S. Federal documents and memos, newspaper and magazine coverage in 1994 on the
genocide, and speeches or comments made by U.S. Federal government officials about the genocide. Studying
these sources gave me a well-rounded view of how the world reacted to the genocide as it unfolded. The second
half of my research took place in Arusha, Tanzania, at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. I toured
the UN facility, viewed an official film on the inner workings and accomplishments of the tribunal, and sat in on a
briefing given by an ICTR official. By experiencing the tribunal personally I was able to gather information about
its goals, difficulties it faces, and its successes. This information helped reveal to me the stance the international
community currently takes on the genocide of 1994. Overall, the project has been one of comparing and
contrasting reactions of the international community during the genocide and in its aftermath. By doing so, I
gained a valuable perspective on the importance of the genocide in the eyes of the world.
U.18
Interpreting Kahle’s List of Values: Being Respected, Security, and Self-Fulfillment in Context
Alex Thompson
Faculty Advisor: Timothy Gongaware, Sociology and Archaeology
This study explores the validity of Kahle’s List of Values through a qualitative exploration of the meanings
individuals attach to the component values. This presentation specifically explores the values of security, being
respected, and self-fulfillment as defined by a sample of undergraduate students. Using the diary-interview
method, fourteen undergraduates from a Midwestern university wrote subjective definitions of each value label.
These definitions were clustered and analyzed through qualitative content analysis. Recurring descriptors were
labeled, grouped, and subdivided in order to create distinct categories containing homogenous student definitional
components for each value. Since there was significant variance among respondent definitions, no single inclusive
definition could be derived for any of the values examined. Definitional themes as well as the implications for the
design of the List of Values and for further associated research are explored.
U.19
Undergraduate Women’s Performance during Their Menstrual Phases Relating to Male
Attractiveness
Eevett Loshek
Faculty Advisor: Alex O’Brien, Psychology
Gender roles define the rules of masculinity and femininity. Women tend to be more passive with cooperative
relationships, whereas, men are generally more aggressive. In the current study, undergraduate women will be
asked to view a photograph of an unattractive or attractive man and then complete an effort test believing that she
will work with the photographed man after the task. We will then compare the results to the participant's
menstrual cycle phase. If our hypothesis is supported, the results will show that women will put in less effort with
an attractive man than an unattractive man. Women will also put in more effort during the ovulatory phase of their
menstrual cycle. If our hypothesis is supported, women will gain a better understanding of their working behavior
with men.
U.20
Domestic Architecture in the South-Central Andes: Placing Pirque Alto (CP-11) Wall Foundation
in Perspective
Jaclyn Rogers
Faculty Advisor: Tim McAndrews, Sociology and Archaeology
The archaeological site of Pirque Alto (CP-11), located in the Parotani region of Bolivia, is important for its great
potential to shed light on the Formative and Early Intermediate periods as well as the Middle Horizon and the
31
socio-cultural networks that existed there. Pirque Alto (CP-11) is part of the larger Prehistoric Parotoni Settlement
Project, which has the intent of tracing interactions and expansion of the Tiwanaku culture during the Middle
Horizon based on the socio-cultural networks that were present during the Formative and Early Intermediate
periods (McAndrews 2007:2). During the 2005 field season surface collections were carried out at the site in
order to determine the extent to which the site had been occupied, which areas in particular had a greater amount
of material culture and to which cultural traditions the material culture belonged. During the 2007 field season
excavations at Pirque Alto (CP-11) were carried out at strategically placed locations based on the 2005 findings
(McAndrews 2007:5). Pirque Alto’s (CP-11) location along three major trade routes increases the importance of
the site because it's location placed it in an ideal location for interaction between different regions during these
periods (McAndrews 2007:2). By determining absolute dates for the site by radiocarbon dating charcoal samples
collected from an excavated wall foundation during the 2007 field season, and through a comparison of this
foundation to others in the South-Central Andes, Pirque Alto's (CP-11) place within the greater history of the
Parotani region can be determined.
U.21
Investigating the Agricultural Techniques used by the Hmong in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand
Ger Yang
Faculty Advisor: John Betton, Management
The goal of the project was to spend a month in Thailand to research the agriculture techniques used by the
Hmong. The Hmong are one of many hill tribes in Thailand that practices the traditional slash and burn
techniques which the Thai government believed it's polluting the environment. In the response to this problem, the
Thai Royal Project was established to help the hill tribes on agricultural developments. The applicant investigated
the different techniques used by the Hmong and took note of the differences and similarities between the
traditional slash and burn, and the advance techniques developed by the Royal Project. After documenting both
the two techniques, both will be compared to the techniques used by the Hmong in La Crosse to see the
differences and similarities. The project is also heavily influenced by the applicant's interest in cultural
preservation and agricultural practices by hill tribes.
U.22
“If I’m a Slut, then What is He?”: A Developmental Analysis of the Sexual Double Standard
Cassandra Riccioli and Emilie Ratter
Faculty Advisor: Tracie Blumentritt, Psychology
Is our sexuality unequally judged whether we are women or men? Do we feel differently about men and women's
sexuality if we are different ages? Research studies have found the existence of a sexual double standard (Fasula,
Miller, & Wiener, 2007; Marks & Fraley, 2005). This means that men are rewarded and women are derogated for
having the same number of sexual partners. Although several studies have been conducted on this phenomenon,
little attention has been paid to the developmental aspect. When beginning our research, we questioned at what
stage in life does the sexual double standard emerge? To find out, we will have collected data from high school
and college students. All participants will have read a fictitious journal entry taken from a psychology course
assignment that discusses sexual activity. The content only varies by the author's gender and the number of sexual
partners the author has had. All participants will have then completed a survey pertaining to their perceptions of
the author. Once all data is obtained, we expect to find that the sexual double standard is strongly adhered to early
in high school and gradually diminishes into the late college years. We anticipate this because of the gender role
intensification hypothesis (Santrock, 2008). This states that as adolescents develop, they strongly adhere to their
corresponding gender roles and eventually become more relaxed in their roles as they mature into young adults.
Therefore, the purpose of our study is to examine at what stage does the sexual double standard emerge. The
results may be useful in parenting, teaching, and counseling adolescents, especially in regard to sexuality.
32
U.23
Identifying Proteins that Cause Segregation of Kinetoplast DNA in Trypanosoma brucei
Daniel Stasiewski
Faculty Advisor: Nicholas Downey, Biology
Trypanosomes, which are the causative agent of Human African Typanosomiasis, replicates in a very unique way.
In Trypanosomes, the flagella and the basal body are all tightly connected. Inside the Trypanosome mitochondria
there is a mass of DNA called kDNA or kinetoplast. The kinetoplast is made up of thousands of minicircles of
DNA linked together like chainmail. During replication, these minicircles replicate, creating effectively two
kDNA complexes that are connected together. Some circles need to open and cause a break in the chainmail so
the kinetoplast can separate with the cells. Currently there is no description of the gene that causes this specific
break in minicircles. The goal of this study intends to discover the protein that facilitates the breaking of
numerous kDNA circles and allows the two connected kDNA networks to segregate into two separate networks
U.24
Nutritional Intake in Age Group Swimmers
Kacie O’Brien and Elizabeth Jeanes
Faculty Advisor: Rebecca Battista, Exercise and Sport Science
Adequate nutritional intake is necessary for performance and important for normal growth and maturation in age
group athletes. However, food choices for the adolescent athlete are often dependent on other factors not under
their control (e.g., parents, peers, coach, school). The purpose of the study was to evaluate the dietary intake of
age group swimmers in comparison to recommended values. Sixteen age group swimmers from a local swim team
were surveyed to determine nutritional intake during a competitive season. Participants recorded all the foods and
beverages consumed within a 24-hour period. This information was entered into a food analysis program that
provided macronutrient data. In addition, a food frequency questionnaire was performed to determine the average
number of servings in food groups consumed per day. Means and standard deviations were calculated for the total
group, boys, and girls. Results showed the age group swimmers achieved more than the recommended intake for
total calories (2954.4 ± 1707.0 calories), carbohydrates (6.4 ± 3.3 g/kg), and protein (1.7 ± 0.9 g/kg). However,
the percent of caloric intake from fat was above recommended (33.4 ± 8.3%). When separated by boys and girls,
girls showed lower than suggested carbohydrate intake (5.3 ± 2.2 g/kg). The food frequency revealed high
servings of fat and refined grains and low amounts of whole grains, fruits and vegetables for the total group.
Overall, our results are similar to other studies showing adequate caloric and macronutrient intake in age group
athletes. However, the amount of caloric intake from fats was higher than recommended. This may have been a
result of few athletes meeting the recommended servings per day of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. This
suggests nutrition education to parents, athletes, and coaches concerning the food choices for a young athlete, is
warranted.
U.25
Screening Synthetic Stilbene Analogs for Antimicrobial Activity against Mycobacterium smegmatis
and Staphylococcus aureus
Sarah Krueger and Rebecca Polanowski
Collaborators: Aaron Monte, Chemistry; Marc Rott, Microbiology; M. Shanjahan Kabir,
UW-Milwaukee; James M. Cook, UW-Milwaukee
Faculty Advisor: William Schwan, Microbiology
Many pathogenic bacterial species, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Staphylococcus aureus, are
becoming resistant to the drugs currently on the market, which threatens public health worldwide. New antibiotics
are needed to keep pace with the multidrug resistant bacteria. Native plants may be a source for
antibiotics. Previously, a stilbene compound from Comptonia peregrina was shown to have antibacterial activity
against Gram-positive bacteria. In this study, more than 90 analogs of this original stilbene have been synthesized
and tested by MIC assays against Mycobacterium smegmatis, a surrogate of M. tuberculosis, and S. aureus. Of the
90 analogs that were assayed, 16 had lower MICs against S. aureus compared to the native stilbene structure. One
analog had a MIC of 3.2 ug/ml, a ten-fold decrease versus the native stilbene. Moreover, three analogs also had
33
lower MICs against M. smegmatis. From our analysis, optimal activity was achieved when a benzothiophene
functional group and a phenolic moiety were present. These findings indicate that derivatization increases the
antimicrobial activity of the native structure, which warrants further investigation in the pursuit for novel
antibiotics.
U.26
Technology and Education in K-12 Namibian Education
Eric Olson
Faculty Advisor: Robert Richardson, Educational Studies
My research examines how incorporating computers into schools in Namibia affect the quality of education—
through the lens of the teachers. To gain insight into my research, I spent ten weeks teaching basic computer skills
to students and teachers in Namibia. Through observations in schools, surveys completed by teachers from around
the country, and interviews with teachers, I gained insight into the potential effects and affects of incorporating
computers into Namibian schools. In my presentation, I will demonstrate the survey results and discuss my
experiences and my projections.
U.27
Characterization of an Antimicrobial Compound from a Xenorhabdus Species
Meagan Arnold
Faculty Advisor: Marc Rott, Microbiology
Since bacteria are becoming resistant to current antibiotics, there is a demand for new drugs. The purpose of this
project is to search for antimicrobial compounds in the bacterium Xenorhabdus bovienii. When X. bovienii is
grown on a lawn of P. aeruginosa, zones of inhibition were produced. However when grown in a liquid culture,
no activity was seen extracting with ethyl acetate or methylene chloride. Therefore the broth was tested directly
and zones were produced. Controls in the experiment suggest that there is an active compound present in the
liquid culture. The project is ongoing and in the future the compound will be purified in order to solve the
structure.
U.28
Effect of Deer Browsing on Tree Seedling Establishment in a Floodplain Forest Restoration
Victor Banuelos
Faculty Advisor: Meredith Thomsen, Biology
Treefall gaps in the floodplain forests of the Upper Mississippi River are one of many small scale disturbances
that lead to succession. They open up a window for other species to colonize, resulting in new species
composition in the area. Such disturbances historically resulted in forest regeneration in the floodplain forest;
today, the invasive species Reed Canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) appears to be taking advantage of these
gaps and out-competing the seedlings of canopy tree species. In collaboration with the US Army Corps of
Engineers, we have established an experiment to test the effectiveness of several mechanical and chemical
methods to decrease P. arundinaceae cover and thereby improve the growth of tree seedlings. Treatments have
been highly effective, resulting in dramatic decreases in P. arundinaceae cover and highly significant increases in
tree seedling establishment. Deer have become a major hindrance in the attempt to restore the forest site, however.
To document the effect of deer browsing on tree seedling numbers and heights, we constructed deer exclosures
(2.25 m²) in treated and untreated areas, paired with 20 open plots the same size. In all plots we counted the total
number of tree seedlings, scored them for evidence of deer browsing, and measured the heights of three
randomly-selected individuals. From our results, we can conclude that protection from deer results in a greater
number of seedlings, lower rates of browsing, and greater average seedling height. Further research as to how to
prevent deer from consuming tree seedlings needs to be conducted to assure the successful re-establishment of
floodplain forest in areas treated to remove P. arundinaceae.
34
U.29
Analysis of dbf4 bob1 Mutant Yeast during Meiosis
Brandon Reuter
Faculty Advisor: Anne M. Galbraith, Biology
Problems with DNA replication during meiosis can lead to birth defects, infertility, and cancer in humans. By
studying the cell cycle, specifically meiosis and the genes that regulate it, we can better understand and treat the
diseases associated with a malfunctioning cell cycle. Two genes, CDC7 and DBF4, are known for their functions
in the regulation of DNA replication during mitosis. Their significance during meiosis, however, has largely been
ignored. Using the organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Baker's yeast), the function of one of these genes was
examined during meiosis. Six strains (wild-type, cdc7 mutant, cdc7 bob1 double mutant, dbf4 mutant, dbf4 bob1
double mutant, and bob1 mutant) were examined for their abilities to undergo DNA replication, gene conversion,
chromosome segregation, and spore formation. Results of these analyses will be presented.
U.30
Effects on Resource Availability of Phalaris arundinacea (Reed Canary grass) Removal in Upper
Mississippi River Floodplain Forest
Adam Johnson
Faculty Advisor: Meredith Thomsen, Biology
Natural regeneration in the floodplain forests of the Upper Mississippi River appears to have been derailed in
some sites by the invasion of Phalaris arundinacea (Reed Canary grass). This competitive species has been
observed to dominate in treefall gap areas, and to inhibit tree seedling growth. This study documents the effects of
P. arundinaceae removal on resource availability in a restoration site near La Crosse, WI, where the US Army
Corp of Engineers is comparing several mechanical and chemical treatments to decrease cover of P. arundinacea
and thereby promote forest re-establishment. We measured moisture at 15 cm depth, light at the soil surface, and
N availability from 0-15 cm at five locations in each of four treated and four untreated plots at the site. Results
show that there was less water and more light in treated plots; our N availability samples await analysis. Light
availability was significantly correlated with seedling numbers across all plots. Furthermore, there was an
increase in the number of tree seedlings as elevation increased, suggesting that lower water availability in treated
areas might actually improve plant performance. Continued sampling through the 2009 growing season will likely
improve our understanding of how treatments to remove Reed Canary grass affect resource availability for tree
seedlings in the floodplain forest
U.31
Hormone and Gender Responses in a Rat Model of Binge Eating Disorder
Samuel Jurek
Faculty Advisor: Margaret Maher, Biology
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is difficult to study in humans. Thus, a rat model may help determine the role that
appetite-regulating hormones play in such a disorder. Male (M, n=19) and female (F, n=19) rats were fed normal
chow (C) or "preferred" food (P - Oreo™ cookies) for a 30 minute "binge" following a 2-hr food restriction. For
five weeks, weight and binge intake were recorded daily. Plasma hormone analysis revealed females had
significantly lower leptin (p<0.001) and higher ghrelin (p<0.001) than males. Preferred food rats had higher leptin
(not significant) and lower ghrelin levels (p<0.001) than chow rats, with FP having lower ghrelin levels than FC
compared with MP and MC (p<0.05). FP consumed more food during binges than FC, which was reflected in
increased weight gain of FP versus FC. In contrast, MC consumed more food during binges than MP, which was
reflected in increased weight gain of MC versus MP. The above gender-by-condition interactions for binge intake
(p=0.15) and weight gain (p=0.19) were not significant. Significant positive correlations were found between
leptin and binge intake, leptin and weight gain, and binge intake and weight gain, whereas negative correlations
were found between ghrelin and binge intake and ghrelin and weight gain. Our results suggest down-regulation in
the ghrelin system, especially in females, and up-regulation in the leptin system with this animal model of BED.
Funded by UW-L and NSF-REU grants.
35
U.32
Evaluation of Novel Gram Positive Specific Antimicrobials derived from (E)-3-hydroxy-5methoxystilbene
Rebecca L. Polanowski and Kathleen Engelbrecht
Collaborators: William R. Schwan, Microbiology; Aaron Monte, Chemistry; Marc Rott,
Microbiology; Mary E. Stemper, Marshfield Clinic; James Cook,
UW-Milwaukee
Faculty Advisor: Marc Rott, Microbiology
The recent upsurge in antibiotic resistance among infectious bacteria contrasts with the steady decline of research
dollars spent on discovering new antimicrobials. It is vital to identify novel antimicrobials active against resistant
pathogens. This project evaluated the antimicrobial activity of the natural product (E)-3-hydroxy-5methoxystilbene and ninety of its synthetic analogs against clinically significant Gram positive bacteria. During
this study, two novel chemical classes of antimicrobial scaffolds (phenoxystyrene and phenothiostyrene) were
prepared. The parent compound was recently purified from Comptonia peregrina (sweet fern), a plant used as a
medicinal by Native Americans in the Great Lakes region. All efficacy evaluations were performed using
minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays with either pathogenic or non-pathogenic surrogate species. The
MIC data was used to assess changes in potency due to structural variation. Results indicated a loss of
antimicrobial activity in the absence of at least one phenolic moiety. Some compounds with more than one
phenolic group were also active against Escherichia coli ATCC 29522. The incorporation of a benzothiophene
moiety was shown to enhance activity. One benzothiophene derivative was four times more potent than the parent
compound against Bacillus anthracis (Sterne strain) and eight times more potent against Staphylococcus aureus
ATCC 29213, a non-pathogenic surrogate of MRSA. Additional evaluations will be performed as new analogs are
synthesized with the aim of increasing both the spectrum and potency of antimicrobial activity.
U.33
Investigating the Role of the Conserved NUD-1 in C. elegans Sperm Development
Scott Gratz
Faculty Advisor: Jennifer Miskowski, Biology
We use the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system to study the molecular basis of development.
Specifically, we are interested in elucidating the role of the NUD-1 protein during formation of the C. elegans
gonad. NUD-1 is a highly conserved protein expressed in all eukaryotes where it is linked to the movement of
cellular components, such as nuclei in filamentous fungi and regulatory proteins during the cell cycle in C.
elegans, or entire cells, like neurons in the mammalian brain. Previous work has also linked NUD-1 to the
microtubule motors dynein and kinesin. Multiple lines of evidence support a role for NUD-1 in C. elegans gonad
development. Animals treated with RNA-mediate interference (RNAi) to selectively deplete NUD-1 levels are
sterile, suggesting that NUD-1 is required for fertility. Additional RNAi experiments were performed in mutant
worms that are only sensitive to RNAi in the germ line. These animals were also rendered sterile, supporting a
role for NUD-1 in germ cell development. Although sperm are made in these animals, they appear to be
nonfunctional, as 50% of treated males are incapable of fertilizing female worms. These data are consistent with
additional results that show the NUD-1 protein localized in an asymmetrical pattern in developing sperm. The
NUD-1 pattern mimics the localization of other sperm components, and we have preliminary data that reveals a
role for myosin VI, an actin filament-based motor, in establishing these asymmetries. Furthermore, we are
analyzing the localization of asymmetrically segregated sperm components in NUD-1 depleted animals to
determine if NUD-1 is required for this pattern.
U.34
Reduction of Blood Clotting Factors during Hibernation in 13-lined Ground Squirrels
Jake Benrud and Bridget Kohlnhofer
Faculty Advisor: Scott Cooper, Biology
13-lined ground squirrels (Spermophilus tridecemlineatus) have previously been shown to regulate activity of
clotting factors in the blood when entering into hibernation, to prevent clots from forming as their circulation
36
slows down. This project focuses on how several blood clotting factors and inhibitors are regulated during
hibernation and their relative amounts in plasma. Quantitative PCR was used to determine the amounts of
different mRNAs relative to actin mRNA in livers of hibernating and non-hibernating squirrels to determine if
regulation during hibernation was at the transcriptional level. Factor IX mRNA, was decreased two-fold in
hibernating animals, while transcription of Factor VIII did not change. Decreased activity of these two proteins in
humans are the cause of hemophilia B and A respectively. Transcription of the clotting inhibitor α2macroglobulin increased six-fold. A collagen binding assay was used to demonstrate that another clotting factor
called von Willebrand factor (vWF) was also significantly decreased in hibernating squirrels relative to nonhibernating squirrels. This is significant because a decrease in vWF activity in humans leads to von Willebrand
disease, the most common inherited human bleeding disorder. Thus, ground squirrels depress blood clotting
during hibernation by inducing what would be considered two bleeding disorders in humans. These findings may
give us greater insight into how we can treat blood clotting or bleeding disorders in humans.
U.35
Transportation Means Relating to the Physical Activity of College Students
Maddison Krug
Faculty Advisor: Rebecca Battista, Exercise and Sport Science
Frequent physical activity is important for overall health benefits and is an essential part of an individual's life.
However, not all adults achieve the recommended amount of daily physical activity. These issues are especially
significant in regards to college students as investigators have identified them as having a variety of health risk
behaviors, including the lack of regular physical activity. In addition, the college aged years have been shown to
play an important role in establishing patterns of active living which may affect the remainder of the student's
lives. Walking for transportation can be an easy way to accumulate bouts of activity throughout the day. As a
college student this means walking to class or any other destination. However, college campuses may present
multiple barriers to walking as a means of transportation. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the
barriers to walking for transportation as a means to improve time spent in physical activity in college aged
students. Student transportation modes and step counts will be recorded for two, seven day periods. These periods
will occur once during the winter and the spring months. All subjects will keep a trip diary and record when, how,
and why they traveled and as well as record daily total step counts. Students living both on campus and off
campus will be asked to participate in this study to allow for further comparisons between active commuting. For
the analysis we will compare off campus versus on campus step totals as well as frequency of reported
transportation. In addition, comparisons will be made between the winter and spring months to determine if
weather played a role in commuting choice.
U.36
Identification of Antifungal Compounds from Fungal Fruiting Bodies
Abby Winkler
Faculty Advisors: Marc Rott, Microbiology; Thomas Volk, Biology
Pathogenic fungi cause diseases in humans, the majority of which are in immunocompromised patients. Few
antifungal drugs exist and these drugs are generally toxic, causing side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. The
focus of this project is the discovery of new antifungal compounds from a library of approximately 300 wild,
fungal fruiting bodies. Fungi have been collected, identified, dried, and extracted with an organic solvent.
Previously, broth micro dilution (BMD) assays were completed on 300 extracts to determine the prevalence of
antifungal compounds contained within the extracts. BMD assays are currently being performed on an additional
80 fungal species to identify other extracts with antifungal properties. Literature research was completed to
determine which of the approximately 31 fungal extracts with antifungal activity, from the previously assayed 300
extracts, should be further examined. Ten of the 31 fungi with antifungal compounds have been thoroughly
researched. All 31 are found in North America with 20 being common locally in the summer and fall. The BMD
values ranged from 10 to 1280 ug/ml, with 9 of the 31 having a BMD fewer than 320 ug/ml. Bioassay-guided
separations will be used to produce pure antifungal compounds, and the structure will be determined. Ultimately,
we hope to discover antifungal compound(s) that could potentially be used as a drug.
37
U.37
Unique Aspects of the Pacing Pattern in 800m Running and 200m Swimming
Steve Vesbach
Collaborators: John P. Porcari, Exercise and Sports Science; Jos J. deKoning, Vrije
Universiteit; Alejandro Lucia, Universidad Europea de Madrid
Faculty Advisor: Carl Foster, Exercise and Sports Science
The pattern of energy distribution, reflected by movement velocity is thought to be negatively accelerated in
800m running and relatively even in 200m swimming. However, official split times may lack the temporal
resolution to fully appreciate the pacing pattern. Purpose: This study was designed to make high temporal
resolution observations of the pacing pattern in WR performances for 800m running and 200m swimming (time
base ~2 min). Methods: Archival video records of WR performances were reviewed and hand timed, using natural
markers in the environment (with official race splits as a correlating factor) to allow measurement of mean
velocity at ~12% distance increments (100m and 25m for running and swimming, respectively). Velocity curves
were fitted using a best fit polynomial (3rd order) and with a simple linear model. Results: The mean (with
official split) performances were: 102.28+0.99s (49.72+1.03, 52.49+0.37) for 800m and 104.31+1.04s
(25.74+0.98, 25.97+1.03, 26.19+1.14, 26.34+1.32) for 200m. With velocities expressed relative to the mean
velocity of the race (RV), using a linear model, both the 800m (R2=0.22) and 200m (R2=0.25) were negatively
accelerated, with the negative acceleration larger in the 800m. This pattern persisted even when the opening
segment (100m or 25m) was removed. When a best fit model was applied, the 800m (R2=0.42) was marked by an
overall negatively accelerated biphasic curve, with evidence of an end spurt during the last 100m. For the 200m
(R2=0.46), there was strong evidence of velocity differences during the first and last 25m of each length of the
pool, associated with an increase in speed from the push off and progressively slower free swimming velocities
during the last 25m of successive pool lengths. Conclusions: The results support the concept that the pacing
strategy during 800m running and 200m swimming is more complex than reflected by official race splits, and that
velocity data with higher temporal resolution may be of considerable value relative to understanding the energy
distribution of competition.
U.38
Body Image Perceptions among Competitive and Non-Competitive Weight Lifters
Kyle Schenck
Faculty Advisors: Karen Skemp-Arlt, Heath Education/Health Promotion; Richard Mikat,
Exercise and Sports Science
The purpose of this study is to identify athletes participating in power lifting, body building and other strength
training activities both competitive and non competitive; assessing the likelihood that these athletes are exhibiting
diagnostic/risk factors for a body dysmorphic disorder known as “muscle dysmorphia” (MD). In order to
determine body image perceptions and the extent of muscle dysmorphia present among the groups, the Muscle
Dysmorphia Inventory (MDI) will be utilized. This survey has been validated in previous research (Rhea, Lantz,
and Cornelius, 2004) and is a 27-item self-report measure designed for the assessment of behavioral and
psychological characteristics associated with MD. The MDI contains 6 subscales (dietary behavior, supplement
use, physique protection, exercise dependence, body size/symmetry, and pharmacological use) and each subscale
uses a 6-point Likert scale ranging from "never" (=1) to "always" (=6). Each subscale score is computed by
summing all the item scores for that particular subscale. A higher score per subscale represents an increased risk
of characteristics associated with MD. The participants in this study will complete the MDI and a few other
questions relating to their strength activity as an online survey. Recruitment of participants will be ongoing
throughout the year with the goal of 100 male participants and 100 female participants, including competitive and
non-competitive weightlifters for both genders. Coaches, trainers, and athletes should be made aware of the
characteristics of this body dysmorphic disorder so as to be able to prevent or reverse the risks for developing
muscle dysmorphia among the weight lifting community.
38
U.39
Characterizing the Hydrogen Bond Strength in Short Helical Peptides Composed of Varying
Amounts of Aib and Ala Amino Acids
Matthew Cocchiola
Faculty Mentor: Adrienne Loh, Chemistry
Protein function is governed by physical characteristics such as flexibility. The formation of secondary and
tertiary structures is ultimately responsible for protein flexibility. One such secondary structure is the 3.10-helix.
It has been found that peptides primarily composed of Aib (alpha-aminoisobutyric acid) will fold into 3.10helices, even in short sequences. Aib amino acids are similar to alanine except for an extra methyl
(-CH3) group at the alpha-carbon. The two methyl groups create significant steric hindrance, which is responsible
for the helical preference of Aib. We are studying the effects of steric hindrance on the hydrogen bond strength in
short helical peptides. Using 1H NMR spectroscopy, we are measuring the rate of exchange of amide hydrogens
with solvent deuterons (2H) as a function of temperature. Using the integrated rate law and Arrhenius equations,
we can determine the activation energy for the exchange of each amide hydrogen, which is correlated to the
intramolecular hydrogen bond strength. Homo-Aib tetramers show consistent activation energies for H/D
exchange for all but the first two amides, which are not helically bonded. When an Ala residue is substituted for
Aib at the second residue, the first 3 amides exchange more quickly, suggesting that helical flexibility is increased
at the N-terminus by the introduction of the Ala residue. Results will be presented on a variety of Aib peptides of
varying Ala placement. Preliminary results indicate the importance of the location of Ala residues in otherwise
Aib rich peptides on the flexibility and strength of the corresponding helix. This suggests that the amount and
relative positioning of less sterically hindered alanine residues is a significant driving force in helix flexibility.
U.40
Comparing the Flexibility of Eight Residue Helical Peptides using H NMR Spectroscopy
Valentine Sackmann and James Singer
Faculty Advisor: Adrienne Loh, Chemistry
The ways that proteins function are controlled by two main properties: structure and flexibility. Understanding
more about the relationship between protein structure and flexibility will aid in the development of
pharmaceutical drugs, and is relevant to other applications such as modeling protein folding. We are studying the
effects of steric hindrance on the flexibility of eight residue peptides composed of alanine and alpha, alphadialkylated amino acid Aib(alpha-aminoisobutyric acid). It has been shown that peptides composed primarily of
Aib fold into 310-helices. The alpha, alpha-dialkylation creates significant steric hindrance, which is responsible
for the helical preference of Aib. 1H NMR spectra of peptides dissolved in a deuterated solvent (CD3OD) are
obtained as a function of time and temperature. By monitoring the exchange of amide hydrogen for deuterium
atoms, rate constants for the exchange reaction can be found using the integrated rate law equation and activation
barriers to exchange can be determined using the Arrhenius equation. Large activation energies suggest strong
intrahelical H-bonds between that particular hydrogen and oxygen implying a less flexible portion of the helix at
that site. Results have shown that the first two solvent-exposed amides in all peptides studied have small
activation barriers to exchange compared to the other amides that are H-bonded. In previous research, when
alanines were substituted into the fourth and fifth residues, the activation energies of the fourth and sixth amide
proton decreased relative to the other activation energies due to the reduced steric hindrance around the alanines.
An eight residue peptide with alanines located at the third and sixth residue is currently being synthesized and the
effects on the flexibility will be characterized.
U.41
Screening Fungal and Plant Extracts for Cytotoxicity
Tricia Flaherty
Faculty Advisor: William Schwan, Microbiology
Over the past decade, antibiotic resistant bacteria have emerged, resulting in an increase of infectious disease
deaths in the United States. Currently, native plants are being studied to find new drugs to treat antibiotic resistant
bacterial infections. As active compounds are found in the plants, assays must be performed to discern the safety
39
of each compound before they can be administered to patients. A high level of cytotoxicity could exclude a
compound from being a potential anti-microbial drug candidate. Previously, we identified a stilbene compound
from Comptonia peregrina that displayed anti-bacterial properties, but which possessed high cytotoxicity against
mammalian cell lines. In this study, a library of analogs of the stilbene were tested using trypan blue exclusion
and 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay using the human monocytic cell
line U937 cells in culture to determine the degree of cytotoxicity exhibited by the compounds. Seven analogs had
better cytotoxicity profiles as compared to the original stilbene. In particular, compounds with both hydroxyl
groups and two benzene rings showed the lowest levels of cytotoxicity, whereas those with ether groups or
additional ring structures showed a higher level of toxicity. Further safety testing will be needed to determine if
the compounds are safe for human use.
U.42
Understanding the World: A Look at the Tanzanian Education System
Patricia Gantz
Faculty Advisor: Donna Anderson, Economics
I believe to truly enjoy living in our diverse and electrifying world, one must first understand it. As an upcoming
educator, I want to know about different education systems, not only within the United States, but also around the
world. During a study tour to Tanzania, I visited three schools and researched their education systems. The
information for this research was gathered through a tour of the schools, interviews with faculty and staff,
observation of a class in session, painting classrooms and planting trees with students, playing sports and
preparing the fields with students, and other experiences over the course of my visit. My results are a descriptive
analysis of the Tanzanian education system. The adolescents of Tanzania are truly the future of their country and
the education system is where it all begins.
U.43
Reporting the Needs of Washington Square Park Damaged Through Natural Disaster for Means of
Donation Allocation: A Case Study Approach
Alex Kaul and Renee Losey
Faculty Advisor: Gretchen Berns, Recreation Management
Filled with a desire to make a difference after the destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina, we were led to the
idea of obtaining a research grant in order to find a way to improve a park damaged in the storm. This desire led
to conversations with the New Orleans Parks and Parkways Department, through which we were directed towards
Washington Square Park, located just outside the French Quarter. The Parks Department sustained significant
flooding and job loss after the storm, and has been unable to devote time to repairing and rebuilding the
neighborhood park that has been hit both by bad weather and signs of age. Instead, that task has become the focus
of a local neighborhood association called the Faubourg Marigny Improvement Association (FMIA). Looking
closer, we learned that the FMIA has organized community park clean-up events including removing debris,
trimming trees, replacing damaged plants, and bagging garbage. Finding a neighborhood dedicated to the
betterment of their community, but simply unable to afford everything necessary to fully restoring their park, we
contacted the FMIA and used our grant stipend to travel to the park to meet with them and gather information for
a fund-raising project. We met with Chris Costello, the president of the FMIA, and were given a detailed walkthrough of the park and history of the neighborhood. He showed us its current state, as well as described the
vision of what they hope it can again become. From this experience, and through continued communication with
the FMIA, we have developed an itemized report detailing all of the needs of the park, which we have already
begun to use in our own efforts to obtain donations and funding for the FMIA and its desire to rebuild the "living
room" of their neighborhood, Washington Square Park.
40
U.44
Analyzing Hemolysin-A Activation by Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) Spectroscopy:
Attachment of Truncated Hemolysin-A (HpmA265) to Gold Films
Sarah Schreiner
Faculty Advisor: Aric Opdahl and Todd Weaver, Chemistry
The goal of this study is to characterize the interactions between two proteins: Hemolysin-A (HpmA) and a 265
amino acid truncated form of HpmA (HpmA265) using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy. SPR
spectroscopy is a label free technique used to quantitatively monitor the interactions between proteins attached to
thin gold films and molecules in solution flown over the film. HpmA employs the two-partner secretion pathway
(TPS) found in gram negative bacteria. TPS pathways use both a transmembrane channel forming B-component
(TspB) and a larger exoprotein A-component (TspA). TpsB is responsible for efficient secretion and activation of
TspA into the extracellular environment. Prior experiments demonstrated that the hemolytic activity of HpmA,
engineered in E. coli, could be restored not only by its channel forming component (HpmB) but also by the
truncated form. The initial objective of this study is to find methods for attaching HpmA265 to gold films such
that the HpmA265 maintains its activation properties towards HpmA. We have explored three different surface
attachment strategies. First, gold slides were functionalized with a Ni2+NTA self assembled monolayer (SAM)
which will bind the five histidine tail of the HpmA265. Preliminary experiments have shown this method couples
HpmA265 to the surface, but the attachment is unstable over long periods of time. The second method of
attachment is coupling HpmA265 to an N-hydroxy succinimide (NHS) terminated SAM which will form bonds
with exposed -NH2 groups on proteins. Since -NH2 groups are at a number of locations in HpmA265, it is likely
that HpmA265 attaches in multiple conformations. The third method involves direct linkage of HpmA265 to the
gold by sulfur-gold bonding. A mutated version of HpmA265 with four sulfur containing cysteines at the Nterminal end is expected to spontaneously bond with the surface, forming a dense HpmA265 monolayer.
U.45
How Is the Mass of a Galaxy Distributed?
Amanda Alexander
Faculty Advisor: Eric Barnes, Physics
The universe is made up of trillions of galaxies, each composed of hundreds of billions of stars. Observations of
the motions of these stars hint that galaxies contain much more mass than can be accounted for by the visible
stars. In a sense, galaxies are like icebergs, we only see a small amount of their total extents. The “invisible”
component of a galaxy is referred to as dark matter. We are using computer simulation techniques to investigate
the behavior of dark matter. In particular, we are working towards understanding how the initial setup of dark
matter models impacts the distribution of mass that results from their evolutions.
U.46
Differences in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tension between Soft and Stiff Landings
Andrew Oebser, Nate Halm, Therese Clark, Jackie Miller and Sara Axland
Faculty Advisors: Tom Kernozek, Health Professions; Robert Ragan, Physics
Various kinematic and kinetic parameters have been implicated in non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
injury during landing. We used a sagittal plane model to estimate the ACL tension from soft and stiff drop
landings from the net knee moments and forces, obtained from a kinematic and kinetic analysis and
electromyography. Model parameters were determined with data from anatomical and ACL loading studies of
cadaveric specimens. The model was used to process averaged data from 60 cm drop landing trials of fourteen
healthy females. ACL loading during drop landing occurred during the between toe and heel impact. Tension on
the ACL was greater with stiff landings compared to soft by about 50%. Factors contributing to ACL tension were
the patellar tendon force with a difference of about 7% and the tibial slope in combination with the joint axial
loads had a difference of about 39%. Factors reducing ACL tension were hamstring with a difference of
approximately 20% and ground reaction forces with a difference of about 26%.
41
U.47
Protein Interaction between Basal Body and kDNA Complex within Trypanosoma brucei
Nicholas Ryan and Alyssa Fish
Faculty Advisor: Nicholas Downey, Biology
Trypanosoma brucei is a parasite that is responsible for African Sleeping Sickness in humans, as well as N'gana in
livestock. These infections are a major burden on the socio-economic development of sub-Saharan Africa.
Recently, these parasites have begun to show resistance to currently used drugs. In order to develop new
treatments, trypanosome cell physiology must be better understood. Trypanosoma brucei is part of a diverse
group of flagellated protozoans known as the Kinetoplastids. Kinetoplastids are unusual in that their
mitochondrial DNA is concentrated at the posterior end of the mitochondrion and adjacent to the flagellum. This
structure is called the kinetoplast DNA (kDNA).The kDNA is connected to the basal body of the flagellum by
proteins that must pass through both membranes of the mitochondrion. Uniquely, the flagellum of Kinetoplastids
drives the process of cell division by binary fission, suggesting that the replicated kDNA is separated through
these protein interactions. The purpose of our research was to identify proteins involved in the interaction between
the flagellum and the basal body. Specific proteins, chosen via bioinformatic analysis, were tested for their
participation in the connection between kDNA and basal body. We selected proteins that were predicted to be
transported to the mitochondrion and also potentially included transmembrane domains and/or strong proteinprotein interaction structures (coiled coils). Our genes of interest were cloned into the plasmid vectors pAN and
pZJM. pAN allows for a tag to be added to the native gene such that the expressed protein can be identified by an
antibody. Immunofluorescence was used to identify where these proteins localized within the cell. pZJM allows
for RNA interference (RNAi) of a gene. The phenotype of these cells can then be examined. Examples of both
pAN directed localization of proteins and pZJM directed RNAi will be shown.
U.48
Template-assisted Hemolytic Activity of Carboxy-terminal Mutants of Truncated Hemolysin A
Jason Hocking
Faculty Advisor: Todd Weaver, Chemistry
Proteus species, a common urinary tract infectious gram-negative bacterium, contains the virulence factor
hemolysin A. Hemolysin A is one member of the two-partner secretion (TPS) pathway. In the TPS pathway
hemolysin B (HpmB) secretes and activates hemolysin A from the periplasm into the external environment.
Additional studies have reported the activation of inactive hemolysin A after mixing with an exogenous pool of
truncated and post-HpmB secreted hemolysin A. This so-called template-assisted hemolytic activity has been
monitored under a number of different conditions. More recently, a 3-dimensional structure of truncated
hemolysin A, dubbed HpmA265, has been determined. In this crystal structure one of the important interactions
occurs between the carboxy-terminal ends of two beta-helix monomers, thereby forming a cross beta-stranded,
dry dimer interface. In an effort to understand the template-assisted activity of HpmA265, two types of mutants
were constructed. First, a series of carboxy-terminal mutants were constructed where a lysine residue was
substituted within the normally hydrophobic core. Additionally, a truncated form of hemolysin A was constructed
to contain only the first 141 residues and has been termed HpmA141. Each of these mutants were purified and
analyzed for template-assisted activity and temperature stability. The lysine replacements engineered at the
carboxy-terminus of HpmA265 did not inhibit activity. However, temperature stability differences have been
observed between these carboxy-terminal mutants and HpmA265. Furthermore, HpmA141 showed some residual
template-assisted activity even though it only harbors the first 141 residues. The later results are supportive of a
model whereby the carboxy-terminal end of truncated HpmA is an important interface during template-assisted
activity. Research supported by NSF-RUI (MCB 0744754).
42
U.49
Environmental Philosophies of College Students in Vietnam and the U.S.
Krysten Kirsch
Faculty Advisors: Gretchen Berns and Steven Simpson, Recreation Management
The primary purpose of this study is to better understand the environmental attitudes and beliefs of college
students in Vietnam, with a secondary purpose of seeing the correlation of environmental attitudes between
college students from Vietnam and the United States. Students from the University of Wisconsin- La Crosse (La
Crosse) and Hanoi National University of Education (Hanoi) voluntarily took the Environmental Philosophy quiz
placing them in various quadrants of the Environmental Action and Philosophy Matrix. Students from both Hanoi
and La Crosse overwhelmingly had environmental attitudes and beliefs supported by scientific reasoning. In
regards to the human element, students from Vietnam seemed to show a significant concern for its role in nature,
whereas the students from La Crosse showed a lesser concern. Based on this study it can be concluded that while
students from both Hanoi and La Crosse have environmental attitudes based on rational thinking, the students
from Hanoi have stronger beliefs in human superiority to nature.
U.50
The Effects of Plyometric Training on Running Economy in Recreational Endurance Athletes
Adam Bisek
Faculty Advisor: Rebecca Battista, Exercise and Sports Science
Running economy (RE) is a reliable indicator of running performance. To be more economical means VO2 at a
steady-state pace is lower. While training at specific intensities affects metabolic adaptations, other factors related
to training specific properties within muscle may impact RE. Plyometric training can alter these properties to
improve performance. The purpose of this study was to determine if plyometric training would affect running
economy in recreational endurance athletes. Sixteen recreational endurance athletes were recruited and randomly
assigned to either an experimental (E; n=9) or a control (C; n=7) group. An 8-week intervention, designed
primarily to focus on dynamic movements and fundamental plyometric (PLY) drills was administered to the
experimental group. Besides the addition of the PLY, both groups (C and E) were advised to continue with their
current training regimen. The following tests were performed on all participants: standing broad jump (SBJ),
incremental test to exhaustion (VO2max), and steady state VO2 test. RE (mL/kg/km) was calculated using steady
state for VO2 and distance traveled (km). No significant differences were found between the E and C groups prior
to the study. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed no significant changes in RE (E; 219.4 ± 13.8 versus 221.2 ±
7.7mL/kg/km; C; 215.8 ± 14.8 versus 224.2 ± 14.1mL/kg/km) or SBJ (E; 1.9 ± 0.5 versus 1.9 ± 0.5 m; C; 1.9 ±
0.2 versus 1.9 ± 0.5m) as a result of the training. Overall, the results show plyometric training did not impact
running economy in these recreational athletes. This suggests there may be more to RE than metabolic adaptations
and changes to properties within the muscle. As a result, further research into the mechanical factors of running
should be addressed in terms of it potential impact to RE.
U.51
Hispanic Content in Agricultural Media Outlets
Kelliann Blazek
Faculty Advisor: Darlene Lake, Modern Languages
The Hispanic presence in America is unquestionable. In 2006, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Hispanic
population represented the largest minority group in the United States. But as a minority group with increasing
influence in American society, Hispanics are often the victims of negative misconceptions and social images. In
1997, Clara Rodriguez used the phrase “problem people” to describe the negative characterization of Hispanics in
American media. Despite increasing Hispanic population numbers during the last decade, the negative social
image of Hispanics in the media has seen little improvement. Acknowledging the significant Hispanic workforce
employed in the agricultural industry, this project analyzes the representation of Hispanics in written agricultural
media outlets. This project determines the representation of Hispanics through examination of four agricultural
publications in Iowa and California, two states with economies invested in agricultural production. Research
includes quantitative and qualitative data conveying the number of Hispanic-related agricultural stories published
43
in the chosen publications, the general content of those articles, as well as discussion of interviews with the
editors of the publications. Project results suggest much of the Hispanic content in agricultural publications
focuses on immigration reform and other labor legislation, rather than topics of cultural critique. Location,
circulation size and readership of the publications are considered in order to gauge the influence agriculturallyfocused media outlets have on the general American outlook on Hispanics.
U.52
Awareness of Local Health Professionals in Regards to Physical Activity for Prenatal and
Postpartum Women
Gretchen Schmidt
Faculty Advisor: Rebecca Battista, Exercise and Sports Science
While many believe pregnant women shouldn’t participate in any physical activity, recent advances have stated
pregnant women can benefit from such participation. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and
Gynecologists (ACOG) changed their views on pregnancy and physical activity in 2002, suggesting pregnant and
postpartum women are no exception to the physical activity recommendations for healthy adults.
U.53
Burial Practices of the Tiwanaku: A Comparative Analysis of Skeletal Remains from Cochabamba,
Bolivia
Kallie Seifert
Faculty Advisor: Tim McAndrews, Sociology and Archaeology
During the summer of 2007, The University of Wisconsin -La Crosse conducted an archaeological field school at
the site of Pirque Alto near Cochabamba, Bolivia. Among the many discoveries was the uncovering of a skeleton
showing possible evidence of Tiwanaku influence. The burial contained the remains of a young child in
conjunction with a ceramic vessel thought to be an offering; however, the age and cultural influences associated
with the burial are unknown. These intriguing remains brought forth many questions; who was this person, how
long ago did they live, and what was their life like? I hope to answer some of these questions while further
investigating the burial and the Tiwanaku culture through literary review, including past archaeological reports,
and analysis of the skeletal remains via photographs and field notes. This research will contribute to the studies
and debates of Tiwanaku influence in Cochabamba as well as supplement information known about Tiwanaku
burials.
U.54
Variation of Anatomical Parameters that Affect ACL Loading during Drop Landings
Tim Lopez
Faculty Advisor: Robert Ragan, Physics; Tom Kernozek, Health Professions
A mathematical model of the knee has recently been developed to study Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
loading during vertical drop landings. The model uses mean values of anatomical parameters obtained from
cadaveric and clinical data. Because of the variation that exists between human subjects, the sensitivity of the
predicted ACL load due to the variation in these anatomical parameters was assessed. Parameters that were
systematically varied were the tibial slope, the moment arms of the patellar tendon, hamstring, and gastrocnemius
at the knee and ankle, the patellar tendon and the hamstring line of force, ACL stiffness, and nonlinear muscle
activation parameters. These anatomical parameters were varied by ±5%. The two primary influences on the ACL
load in drop landing were the tibial slope and patellar tendon line of force. In addition to the maximum ACL load,
the sensitivity of the forces contributing to ACL loading was also examined. Ankle, patellar tendon, hamstring
and tibial-femoral contact shear forces were measured at their maximums and at the time of maximum ACL load
during landing. By assessing how the variation in these anatomical parameters affected ACL load and the
associated forces, the contribution of each force to the ACL load could be determined. ACL maximum load and
the tibial-femoral shear force were most sensitive to a variation in tibial slope. The patellar tendon shear force was
most sensitive to the variation in patellar tendon line of force. Besides varying each parameter by a standard
44
value, anatomical data that measures the empirical variation of each parameter could be used with these results to
find the specific amount of variation from person to person.
U.55
An Analysis of Fish Remains from the Krause Site (47Lc41), in La Crosse County, WI
Emily Turriff
Faculty Advisor: James Theler, Sociology and Archaeology
During the 2000 excavations at the Krause site in Onalaska, Wisconsin, archaeologists uncovered a unique earth
oven feature. Oneota features are very common regionally, but this feature, numbered 275 is different from other
Oneota features. Most of the Oneota features found in the La Crosse area are garbage or storage pits that are often
refuse filled, and can only offer a secondary context. Feature 275 is an earth oven where the remains of fish are
believed to be in their primary context. What makes Feature 275 even more unique is twenty different zones that
appear to be separate areas of activity and use. The analysis of the fish remains in this feature offers unique
insights into the diet and subsistence of the Oneota people.
U.56
Children’s Eating Behaviors and Attitudes and the Effectiveness of the Healthy Body Image
Curriculum
Krysta Millis and Kristen Holle
Faculty Advisor: Karen Skemp-Arlt, Health Education and Health Promotion
Starting around age 11, adolescents start to undergo some major changes and they become more aware of their
body image. This is where problems with eating and food begin to develop. A recent article states that “45% of a
sample of girls and boys in grades three through six had a desire to be thinner, 37% had tried to lose weight, and
6.9% scored within the anorexia nervosa range” (Herbozo, 2004). Purpose: The purpose of this study is to
investigate adolescent male and female attitudes on body image, eating attitudes, and physical activity and fitness.
A secondary purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of the Healthy Body Image curriculum
developed by Kathy Kater, as it compares to the current health curriculum the students are currently receiving.
Methods: This study will include middle school students from the Coulee region that are enrolled in a health class.
They will be given a questionnaire about body image and eating habits at the start of their health class. Once
concluding their health class and completing the health curriculum, they will be given the same questionnaire. In
year two of this study, the existing health curriculum will be replaced with the health curriculum developed by
Kathy Kater and the same testing methods will be used. The questionnaires from the start of the health class and
the conclusion of the health class will be compared to note the effectiveness of the program. Results/conclusions:
we anticipate that students will make an improvement in their health attitudes and behaviors throughout the
duration of their health class. We also anticipate that the Healthy Body Image curriculum by Kathy Kater will be
more successful than the current health curriculum.
U.57
A Comparative Study of Human Mortuary Practices and Cultural Complexity
Jennifer Rich
Faculty Advisor: Constance Arzigian, Sociology and Archaeology
Death is an important part of life and societal identity, and forms a critical part of the archaeological record. Yet
many archaeologists have failed to analyze how the patterns within burials change and grow throughout
prehistory. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the patterns found within mortuary practices by looking at a
series of sites spanning the Archaic, Woodland, and Oneota periods in the Upper Midwest. My hypothesis is that
as societies develop through time, their mortuary practices will change in terms of the internment, orientation, and
type, variety, and association of grave items with specific gender, age, and status. This analysis will uncover a
better understanding of prehistoric peoples in the Upper Midwest, especially seen in the social organization
during particular time periods and in specific regions.
45
U.58
A Comparative Study of Ancient Weaving Techniques
Amy Karoll
Faculty Advisor: Constance Arzigian, Sociology and Archaeology
During recent years, the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center (MVAC) has acquired permission to look at a
beautifully preserved bag from 47Lc84, a rock shelter located in La Crosse County, Wisconsin. It is tentatively
dated to the Oneota cultural tradition (A.D.1000-1650) based on pottery shards associated with it. Nothing of its
kind has been found archaeologically in this region before, owing mostly to poor preservation conditions. Due to
its uniqueness, there is nothing to compare it to within the Oneota tradition. Therefore, to gain a better
understanding of this bag, a cross-cultural study is imperative. I looked at separate sites in the American Midwest,
as well as textile impressions that are preserved on pottery, the ethnohistoric and early historic record, and modern
hand-weaving techniques to determine the textile tradition from which the bag may have emerged as well as how
it was constructed.
U.59
Coping and Stress in Dementia Caregivers: Does Gender Play a Role?
Rachel Rydel
Faculty Advisor: Dung Ngo, Psychology
The purpose of this study is to investigate the possibility of a relationship between levels of stress and depression
in the coping abilities among genders of spousal caregivers of Alzheimer's dementia (AD) patients. The sample
will include 80 participants (50% women) who are self-identified as the primary caregivers for a spouse with a
degenerative neurological condition (i.e., Alzheimer's disease). Participants will be asked to complete three selfreport questionnaires including the Perceived Stress Scale, the Geriatric Depression Scale, and the WAYS of
Coping Scale, as well as a section on demographic information. Participants may also choose to complete the
questionnaire via face-to-face, by telephone interviews or by returning the packet in a self-addressed envelope to
the research institution. The estimated time to complete the survey will be about 30-45 minutes. Participation in
this study will be on a voluntary basis and respondents will remain anonymous. Data will be analyzed by using
the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Analysis of Variance procedures (ANOVA) will be used to
evaluate the significant of gender and group differences in terms of coping and levels of stress. This study
hypothesizes that female caregivers utilize more effective coping strategies than their male caregiver counterparts.
In addition, male caregivers will report higher levels of stress and depression, compared to female caregivers.
Those involved in a support group will report higher levels of coping strategies and lower levels of stress and
depression, compared to those who are not involved in a support group.
U.60
I1 Dynein is Necessary for Flagellar Coordination
Garrett Pluym
Faculty Advisor: David Howard, Biology
Flagella and cilia are whip-like structures essential in most animals, protists, and primitive plants. In eukaryotic
cells, the wave like motion of flagella is caused by the sliding of microtubules relative to one another. This motion
is generated by alternating the activity of motor proteins called dynein. The single-celled green algae,
Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, was used to analyze the role of the dynein family member inner arm I1.
Chlamydomonas uses two flagella for swimming in a normally synchronous breaststroke-like motion. The way
the two flagella maintain synchrony has yet to be determined. Much remains unknown about the precise roles of
the different isoforms of inner arm dyneins in flagellar control. Previous work in our lab has shown that missing
the smaller a, c, and d inner dynein arms did not affect coordination, but resulted in slower beat frequencies and
shallower bend patterns in their flagella when compared to the wild type cells. Cells with different mutations of
the inner arm I1 dynein (ida1, ida7-1, bop5-1, and ida3 cells) were analyzed with DIC at 1000 frames per second
using high speed video microscopy to discover the differences in beat frequency and synchrony. Our results show
that cells with these first three mutations are significantly more uncoordinated than cells without a mutation in I1,
supporting previous analysis of pf9-2 and ida1. The two flagella in wild type cells are coordinated >85% of the
46
time whereas I1 mutants are coordinated <50%. This asynchrony results from one flagellum beating
approximately 12-16 Hz faster than the other. In contrast to the other I1 mutations, the beat frequency of ida3
mutants is not significantly different, but the two flagella beat ½ cycle out of phase. Further analysis of this
mutant will determine if there is a second mutation.
U.61
A Building Block for the Economy of Tanzania
Lindsey Polzin
Faculty Advisor: Donna Anderson, Economics
The general purpose of my research is to learn more about microfinancing in Africa, and quantitatively and
qualitatively determine the extent and effects of microfinancing in an area of the world in which it has a relatively
short history. Microfinance is the term for the very small loans given to poverty-stricken people that allow them to
expand a business. This practice of microfinacing has been increasing in popularity since the 2006 Nobel Peace
Prize was awarded to Muhammad Yunus, who has been credited with pioneering the idea in developing countries
(Mahjabeen, 2007). While living in Bangladesh, Yunus found that traditional banks did not want to bother lending
small amounts of money to disenfranchised people who were considered risky borrowers. In 1976, Yunus was
able to secure a loan from a large bank which he then divided up to distribute as microloans among those living in
extreme poverty in Bangladesh. He discovered then, which has been supported with subsequent research, that
very small money loans to those living in extreme poverty resulted in vast gains and improvement in their quality
of life (Mahjabeen, 2007). Microfinancing is relatively new in Tanzania. Tanzania is one of the poorest countries
in the world located on the southeastern coast of Africa. An agriculture-based economy, the 2007 GDP per capita
is $1,700 (CIA 2008). Gaining independence relatively recently in 1964, the country has experienced a slow, but
steady, and most importantly, peaceful growth (CIA 2008). The limited research that has been conducted on
microfinancing in Africa has shown that it has incredible economic development potential (UN OSSA, 2000). The
purpose of this research process is to better understanding of the microfinancing process and the implications it
has to create a higher quality of life for millions of people around the globe, particularly in developing nations.
U.62
Sex Sells: Sexiness and Perceived Competence in Female vs. Male Musicians
Elizabeth Henze
Faculty Advisor: Betsy Morgan, Psychology
Today, there are a disproportionate number of male to female musicians (Daughtry, 2002). The history of music
also reflects this male majority (Karpf, 1994). In the 1920s, blues and jazz brought more women in the scene;
however, they were often viewed as “eye candy” and paid less than male musicians (Daughtry). Today, this "eye
candy" image still remains. Women who don't have a sexualized appearance quickly adopt one, suggesting that it
may be necessary for women to make it in a male dominated music scene (Jhally, 2007). Sexual appeal has also
been found to heighten potential consumer interest and influenced perceptions of the marketed object in a positive
light (Reichert, 2003). I hypothesized that highly sexualized female musicians would be rated as more successful
and competent than non-sexualized female and male musicians. An online survey was emailed to approximately
310 students in an introductory psychology class and 41 males and 151 female responded. The survey consisted
of a musical video clip (still photo and a 30 sec original instrumental rock segment). Respondents were randomly
assigned to one of four photo conditions: sexy or neutral attire and male or female musician. The male musician
was shown as shirtless for sexy whereas the female musician wore a low cut top. For the neutral condition, each
model wore a black t-shirt and blue jeans. Respondents rated the musicians on attractiveness, competence and
sexiness, and the potential success and musical ability of the musician. Contrary to hypotheses, no significant
differences were found on the two major variables of interest - perceived ability and potential success. However,
the sexy musicians were perceived to be more competent than those in normal attire, F(1,192) = 7.81; p. = .006).
The results are surprising given the emphasis on appearance in the mainstream music business. Also, gender
trends warrant additional research.
47
U.63
Student Perceptions of Immediate Feedback Assessment Technique in Chemistry Courses
Allison Fitzwater
Faculty Advisor: Jamie Schneider, Chemistry
General chemistry instructors often employ multiple-choice tests in larger lecture classrooms in order to facilitate
timely assessment feedback for students. A common complaint with this method is the inability to measure
proximate knowledge. Instead of the all or nothing approach of traditional multiple-choice format, instructors can
measure student understanding using an alternative multiple-choice test that offers an answer-until-correct format.
Using the Immediate Feedback Assessment Technique (IF-AT) exam form, instructors provide a unique type of
multiple-choice exam with instant feedback, thus allowing students the chance to reevaluate and potentially learn
from an incorrect answer. We wondered how students would react to using these forms in beginning chemistry
courses. Using an end of semester survey, we gathered student responses in the following four areas: 1) student
appraisal of the testing method, 2) influence of the testing method on student morale, 3) influence of the testing
method on student learning, and 4) student test taking strategies with immediate feedback. Our results suggest that
the majority of students give the IF-AT method a positive appraisal. The majority of students also feel that this
testing method has a positive effect on their morale and learning. Lastly, students report that they do not randomly
guess on the second and third attempts but rather they try to choose a better answer logically. In addition to the
survey results, we will also present classroom assessment data analyzing student answers to better understand
how students utilize the immediate feedback. With immediate feedback, many students were able to correct minor
calculation errors as well as common misconceptions. With consideration of the positive overall contribution to
perceived and actual student learning, we suggest the increased use of IF-AT forms to assess student learning in
larger lecture classrooms.
U.64
Teen and Adult Activities Onboard a Cruise Ship
Alexandra Goodman
Faculty Advisor: Gretchen Berns, Recreation Management
The purpose of this research is to better understand the consumer's viewpoint of teen and adult activities in a
commercial recreation setting such as a cruise ship. While research exists examining activities in other venues of
commercial recreation, there is limited information on activities for teens and adults onboard cruise ships. In
addition to observation and participation in onboard activities, survey and interview methods were used to collect
the necessary data. The results indicate that there are noteworthy differences in the number of onboard activities
that each age demographic participated in. The results also indicate that the types of onboard activities favored by
each age demographic vary as well. Program directors working for cruise lines and other commercial recreation
venues may find this data to be of particular interest when planning activities for teenagers and adults.
UNDERGRADUATE EXHIBIT ABSTRACTS
E.1
Photographic Printing on Non-Traditional Surfaces
Katie Vice
Faculty Advisor: Roger Grant, Art
The use of liquid emulsion is an alternative photographic printing process that allows the printer to paint a light
sensitive emulsion on any desired surface. Experimentation has been done to determine what surfaces work well
with liquid emulsion and how each surface affects the image quality and visual communication. Surfaces being
tested include canvas, linen, wood, steel, glass, mirror, and watercolor paper. The emulsion is painted on in a
darkroom and allowed to dry. Once dry the surface can be exposed to a negative as a normal piece of
photographic paper would be. The developing process is slightly different from printing on fiber based paper and
no stop bath is used. While wet the image is very delicate, but after drying the emulsion embeds into the surface
48
that was coated. At this point light surfaces reveal the image better but darker surfaces have a subtle quality that
requires the viewer to take a closer look. The matte finish works well with smooth, semi-shiny surfaces like wood
and will likely print well on shiny surfaces such as the glass and steel. The watercolor paper and canvas print soft
images, which works well for some photographs. Brush marks are left behind and can add more visual appeal for
some, but not all images. Different application processes will be tested as well. At the moment the photographs
that have been used do not work on every surface tested. As it goes, every image created will be an experiment.
E.2
Aftermath of the Secret War: An Interpretation of Hmong Ways of Life in Thailand
Mai Ia Vue
Faculty Advisor: Jennifer Williams-Terpstra, Art
After the US pulled out of the Secret War in Vietnam, the Hmong sought asylum throughout the world with help
from the United States in 1975. Today, the Hmong are a well established ethnic group in many parts of America.
Growing up, I have always wondered what if my family and I did not come to America? What would life be like
for us? How did we get where we are today? With relatives left behind in Thailand, my research is grounded on
my earnest desire for a deeper understanding of my family history. To personally experience the lifestyle of the
Hmong in Thailand, I conducted the research there in one of the Hmong villages near Mae Sot province. Using
photographs from my trip, I recreated those images onto watercolor paper. Western approaches such as realism
are incorporated with my paintings to portray accurate depictions of their lives, problems, appearances, and
customs. Not to mention, the photographs are great for filling in detail. As an artist, I want to express the current
lifestyle of the Hmong in Thailand and compare it to the Hmong in the US today. The result of my paintings
interprets my understanding, my memoirs, and my relationships that I have developed in Thailand.
E.3
Romeo and Juliet: A Study of Irish Clothing
Brittany Jacob
Faculty Advisor: Joe Anderson, Theatre Arts
I am a costume design major and am also Irish, so I thought that this project was a good combination of both. For
my project I studied Ireland and it's clothing in three different centuries and wanted to show the progression of
clothing through time. I decided to do Romeo and Juliet as a play because it is very versatile. I chose characters to
design costumes for that were of different status. So that I could show a range in the clothing at a certain time, or
in some cases show how little range there was between the different statuses. I really learned a lot during this in
Irish clothing and also in my design ability. I really enjoyed bringing my characters to life in the different ways
that I did; either through drawings, paintings, or actually making the costumes. I hope you enjoy my research and
project as much as I did.
49
50
GRADUATE
STUDENT
ABSTRACTS
51
52
GRADUATE ORAL PRESENTATION ABSTRACT
GO.1 Cardiovascular Benefits of Daily Black Walnut Consumption
Peter Fitschen
Faculty Advisor: Margaret A. Maher, Biology
English walnuts (EW) have been marketed for cardiovascular benefits including favorable changes in blood lipid
profile, attributed to their fatty acid content. In contrast, black walnuts (BW) have not yet been studied for such
benefits. The purpose of our research was to compare black versus English walnut effects on blood lipid levels.
Thirty-six subjects (female=20, male=16), ages 62±12 years, were recruited and randomly assigned to either EW
or BW groups (18 per group). Venous blood lipid levels were analyzed following a 12-hour fast before and after
28-30 days of walnut consumption. Subjects consumed 30 g of provided pre-weighed nuts daily with their usual
diet. They reported usual food intake and medications and were weighed before and after each nut treatment.
After a 12-week washout period, 29 subjects (female=16, male=13) crossed over and consumed the other type of
walnut for 28-30 days (BW=13, EW=16). Response to EW consumption in both genders was largely consistent
with previous studies. A significant reduction in LDL (low-density lipoprotein "bad cholesterol"), HDL (highdensity lipoprotein "good cholesterol") and total cholesterol was found in men who consumed BW; however, a
significant increase in total cholesterol, HDL, and LDL was found in women who consumed BW. Consumption
of either walnut type did not result in weight gain. Walnuts may benefit health, but black walnut benefits may be
affected by gender. This research was funded by UW-L internal grants and BW were supplied by Hammons
Products Co.
GRADUATE POSTER PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
G.1
Evaluating the Effects of Standards-Based Assessment on Student Learning in Middle and High
School Band
Beth Mohr
Faculty Advisors: Leanne Bongers and Wally Burne, ME-PD Learning Community
This study was conducted to determine the effects of standards-based assessment on student achievement,
participation, and confidence in middle and high school band. Twenty-six middle and 26 high school students and
their parents participated in this research. Students received focused instruction during full band rehearsals and
lessons that pertained to the performance of musical standards, such as rhythmic accuracy and articulations,
throughout the study. The researcher used pre- and post-tests, full band recordings, weekly journal entries, timeon-task charts, anecdotal records, lesson attendance, assignment completion, and pre-and post-research surveys to
collect data. This study found a marked increase in student achievement. Student participation and confidence
levels both increased and decreased.
G.2
Professional Burnout in School Psychology: Impact of Changing Practices
Ben Burns
Faculty Advisor: Robert Dixon, School Psychology
The present study investigated what impact a shift to a Response-to-Intervention (RtI) method might have on the
reported burnout levels of school psychologists. The role of the school psychologist has long been envisioned as
one of nothing but testing and paperwork by both those in and outside the profession. With recent legislation, RtI
has become a mandated option to replacing the traditional discrepancy model. The present study investigates what
impact the extent to which schools are implementing RtI-type practices, the individual school psychologist's
knowledge of and attitudes towards RtI, and the perceived discrepancy between the school psychologists
53
knowledge and attitudes and that of their principals has on the three factors of burnout as conceptualized by
Maslach and Jackson: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment (1986).
G.3
A Comparative Study of Collegiate Student Involvement in Asian and American Universities
Megan Buhrandt
Faculty Advisor: Larry Ringgenberg, Student Affairs Administration
Little research has been conducted to assess the similarities and differences between the University of WisconsinLa Crosse and other institutions abroad with regard to collegiate student involvement. This project will discern
between on and off-campus involvement at three Asian institutions to that at UW-L: City University in Hong
Kong, the Hanoi National University of Education in Hanoi, and the University of Economics in Saigon. The
information gathering took place during the 2009 Vietnam Civic Engagement Trip from January 6-21. The data
collected is qualitative in nature, as a result of verbal interviews with students and student affairs staff. Outcomes
of this project include an in-depth understanding of student involvement, motives, and benefits in Asian
universities, compared to an American institution.
G.4
Acquiring Multisensory Room Training as Professional Development and Implementation for
Internship
Lindsey Kirschbaum
Faculty Advisor: Susan ‘Boon’ Murray, Therapeutic Recreation
The purpose of this project is to (a) attend a two-day training on multisensory rooms, specifically Snoezelen, as a
benefit and specialized application of sensory stimulation in the practice of therapeutic recreation (TR) in January
2009 or February 2009 in Queens, New York, with Linda Messbauer, who is one of the world's leading experts in
multisensory rooms; (b) apply my professional development by collaborating with Central Wisconsin Center, my
internship site, to complete an internship project by introducing more accessories and implementing a program to
the staff and participants; (c) promote interest in, and knowledge of, multisensory rooms and Snoezelen as my
master's project by presenting the outcomes of the training to the therapeutic recreation faculty and students at
UW-La Crosse, and to the university audience with a poster for Research and Creativity Day in the Spring of
2009.
G.5
Barriers to Response to Intervention (RtI): Teacher Education at the Pre-Service Level
Andy Kastner
Faculty Advisor: Robert J. Dixon, School Psychology
For Response to Intervention (RtI) to be successfully implemented and maintained, it is vital that incoming
teachers are knowledgeable and can practice within these new expectations. Data was collected using a survey
designed to measure the depth of knowledge pre-service students had at different developmental levels in a
teacher education program for the core features of RtI (i.e., philosophy, measurement concepts, problem-solving
teams, knowledge of general curriculum, and knowledge of interventions). Discovering the knowledge pre-service
teachers have about RtI and what they still need to learn will help teacher education programs develop specific
programming to meet these future teachers' basic practice needs. Implications on future professional development
in the area of RtI will also be discussed.
54
G.6
Cultural Competence in Pre-Service and In-Service Teachers
Sadie Parsley
Faculty Advisor: Jocelyn H. Newton, School Psychology
The purpose of this poster presentation is to increase awareness of educators' cultural competence. We compared
pre-service and in-service teachers on self-reported aspects of cultural competence, including multicultural
teaching skills and multicultural teaching knowledge. Data was collected using the self-report Multicultural
Teaching Competency Scale. This presentation will inform session attendees of the current level of pre-service
and in-service teachers' cultural competence and the importance of multiculturalism in education.
G.7
Hip Muscle Activation and Knee Frontal Plane Motion during Weight Bearing Therapeutic
Exercises
Amanda Lubahn, Tiffany Tyson, and Kenneth Merkitch
Collaborator: Paul Reuteman, Health Professions
Faculty Advisor: Thomas Kernozek, Health Professions
Our purpose was to determine which exercise: double-leg squat (DLS), single-leg squat (SLS), or front step-up
(FSU) activated hip muscles while maintaining knee alignment. Another objective was determining if an added
valgus load increased gluteus maximus and gluteus medius activation while maintaining knee abduction
alignment. Eighteen healthy females between ages 18-26 were tested. Surface electromyography (EMG) of
gluteus maximus and gluteus medius of the dominant leg were recorded. Three maximal voluntary isometric
contractions (MVIC) were collected for each muscle to normalize EMG data. Motion analysis with retroreflective markers was used while subjects performed six exercises: DLS, DLS with resistance, FSU, FSU with
resistance, SLS, and SLS with resistance. A two way analysis of variance with repeated measures using two
within subject factors (exercise: DLS, SLS, FSU; and valgus load) was used for each muscle. Muscle activation
was different across the exercises for gluteus maximus (p=0.000) and gluteus medius (p=0.000). With valgus
load, DLS showed an increase in gluteus maximus activation (p=0.019). Gluteus maximus activation change
during FSU and SLS was not different (p>0.05). An applied valgus load did not increase muscle activation during
any exercise for gluteus medius. Applied valgus load increased the knee abduction angle during DLS (p=0.013),
FSU (p=0.000), and SLS (p=0.011). SLS had the highest activation for both muscles, regardless of whether a
valgus load was applied. Although DLS achieved the lowest integrated activation, adding a valgus load to the
knees increased muscle activation by 6% MVIC * sec. This improved the effectiveness of the exercise for
activating the gluteus maximus. Overall, the SLS was most effective exercise for activating the gluteus maximus
and gluteus medius. Therapeutic exercises with applied valgus load appear to not increase muscle activation of
either muscle during SLS and FSU. DLS with an applied valgus load using theraband may be more beneficial.
G.8
The Effects of Gluteus Medius Fatigue on Single Leg Landing Mechanics
Mary Patrek
Faculty Advisor: Tom Kernozek, Health Professions
Despite research and prevention efforts, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries occur three to five times more
often in women compared to men. 78% to 80% of these are non-contact, meaning that there was no direct blow to
the knee when the injury occurred. Previous research has investigated the role of the quadriceps and hamstrings in
knee mechanics during sport related movements while current investigations have implicated that muscles that
control frontal plane motion of the hip may also be important. Our purpose was to investigate the effects of
gluteus medius fatigue on single leg landing mechanics. Twenty physically active college aged women were
participants. Each performed five single leg drop landings from a height of 40cm before the fatigue protocol (pre)
and five single leg drop landings immediately after the fatigue protocol (post). The fatigue protocol consisted of
positioning each participant in sidelying while raising and lowering their dominant leg to 30o of hip abduction at a
consistent tempo. Participants were considered fatigued when they reached a RPE of 19 and could no longer
maintain the desired tempo. Immediately post fatigue, participants performed 5 single leg drop landings. Data
55
were collected using three dimensional motion analysis system and a force platform. There was no significant
change found in sagittal plane movements pre to post fatigue. However, compared to the pre fatigued condition,
there was a significant increase found in the post fatigue condition in the hip abduction angle as well as the knee
and hip moment in the frontal plane. The results suggest that gluteus medius fatigue may play a role in knee
mechanics that may pose a risk of ACL injury.
G.9
Acquiring Sibshop Certification as Professional Development and Facilitating and Promoting
Sibling Support
Ashly Bintzler
Faculty Advisor: Susan 'Boon' Murray, Therapeutic Recreation
The purpose of this project is to (a) acquire certification as a facilitator of Sibshops as a specialized competency
and intervention of sibling support in Therapeutic Recreation (TR) and Child Life (CL) by attending a two-day
(13-hour) workshop 4/11-12/08 in Lincoln, Nebraska with founder Don Meyer of the nationwide Sibling Support
Project; (b) apply my professional development by collaborating with Chileda in La Crosse as a voluntary
Sibshop facilitator conducting recreational group activity with brothers and sisters of clients with autism; and (c)
promote interest in, and knowledge of, sibling support as my master's project by disseminating the Sibshop model
to therapeutic recreation faculty and students at UW-La Crosse, and to the university audience with poster for
Research and Creativity Day Spring 2009.
G.10
Mind the Gap!: Cross-cultural Exploration and the SAA Study Tour to the UK
Dorrie Unertl
Faculty Advisor: Jon Hageseth, Student Affairs Administration
The Student Affairs Administration (SAA) program at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UW-L) is
dedicated to preparing and educating future student affairs professionals through an environment of educational
inquiry and hands-on experiences. Forming global connections has been identified as a key component of the
curriculum and a key characteristic of the well-rounded student affairs professional. Since increasing the reach of
the SAA program with an online degree option, the SAA community has placed a high priority on offering more
diverse, international experiences to all SAA students. From January 3 to January 13, 2009, the faculty-led SAA
Study Tour to the UK (United Kingdom) fulfilled this new goal by giving current SAA graduate students the
unique opportunity to converse with students and student affairs professionals at three sister institutions in
Scotland, the Universities of Aberdeen, Stirling, and Glasgow, as well as Oxford University in England. Students
were also afforded the opportunity to explore the culturally diverse cities in which each institution is located.
Through qualitative data collection via lectures, tours, journaling, and discussion with other participants and
Scottish student affairs counterparts, the following goals were achieved during the SAA Study Tour to the UK:
discussing the history of higher education from a UK perspective, exploring higher education systems in the UK,
identifying current issues in student affairs in the UK, examining the UK perspective of American higher
education and student affairs, and enhancing appreciation of and sensitivity to diverse cultures.
G.11
Preventing Heart Attacks: The Search for Fungal Inhibitors of Blood Clot Formation
Geoffrey T. Pesanka
Faculty Advisor: Scott Cooper, Biology
Cardiovascular disease due to atherosclerosis is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Western
societies. The actual cause of death in these situations is myocardial infarction or stroke, and is due to blockage of
the coronary or cerebral arteries, respectively, by a platelet clot known as a thrombus. In order for a thrombus to
form, the blood vessel wall must be damaged, as in the rupture or erosion of an atherosclerotic plaque, exposing a
surface to which platelets adhere, become active, and aggregate. Currently, persons at risk for cardiovascular
disease use aspirin to prevent platelet activation and those who have had a heart attack or stroke are placed on
clopridogrel (Plavix) to further inhibit platelet activation. Since many patients are becoming resistant to these
56
treatments, the search for new inhibitors of platelet activation is necessary. Conversely, patients may be placed on
Coumadin to prevent platelet aggregation by inhibiting the actions of thrombin; the use of Coumadin requires
very close monitoring. Given the drawbacks to medicines currently in use, the search for new drugs is
imperative. The search for fungal inhibitors of clot formation seems logical, since the use of fungi for medicinal
purposes has been well documented, particularly in Asian countries. However, little is known about the actual
compounds in fungi exerting a biological effect.
G.12
In Vivo Regulation of Fim Gene Transcription in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli
Hua Ding
Faculty Advisor: William Schwan, Microbiology
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are the primary cause of urinary tract infections in humans. Type 1 pili
allow UPEC adherence to epithelial cells lining the urinary tract. The expression of type 1 pili is affected by phase
variation, where a 314-bp DNA element switches between Phase-ON and Phase-OFF orientations as a
consequence of FimB and FimE binding. Previous works has shown that a combination of acidic pH and high
osmolarity effects fim gene transcription in vitro. In this study, we ligated the promoter region of several fim
genes to a promoterless lux operon on a plasmid, and moved the constructs into strain NU149, a clinical UPEC
isolate. Growth in acidic medium reduced expression from all of the fim promoters (fimA, fimB and fimE). In
high-osmolarity acidic media, expression from all three fim promoters was sharply decreased compared to the
expression in growth media without added NaCl. In a mouse urinary tract infection model, fimB expression was
pronounced in the bladders over a five-day period. However, fimB expression in the kidneys dropped to a nearly
non-detectable level in UPEC cells growing in mouse urinary tracts. These results confirmed our previous
findings using fim-lacZ fusions. Moreover, the results suggest that there are differences in fim gene expression
that are dependent on which in vivo environmental niche harbors the bacteria.
G.13
Characterization of an Unclassified Virus and Survey for Its Presence in Wisconsin Bluegill
Populations
Marisa Barbknecht
Faculty Advisors: Mike Hoffman, Microbiology; Becky Lasee, Biology
In 2001, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service La Crosse Fish Health Center isolated a virus from bluegills with
clinical signs of viral infection from Lake Montana, WI. Routine viral screening recovered virus that only
replicated in bluegill fry-2 cells. Subsequent confirmatory diagnostic testing for known fish viruses failed to
identify the virus, leading members of the La Crosse Fish Health Center to believe it may be a previously
uncharacterized virus of bluegills. Since the first isolation, the virus has been presumptively isolated from both
diseased and asymptomatic bluegills statewide. In a recent survey of Wisconsin bluegill populations, we
presumptively isolated the virus from 5 of 17 sites, suggesting it may be fairly widespread. Thus, a diagnostic test
is needed to confirm these and previous presumptive isolations. The goal of this research is to characterize the
virus to allow for classification and design of a confirmatory diagnostic PCR. From early characterization, the
virus does not resemble any previously described virus of bluegills and appears similar to the picorna-like viruses.
Transmission electron microscopy revealed icosahedral, non-enveloped virus particles averaging 30 nm in
diameter. The protein profile of concentrated virus particles on an SDS-PAGE gel consists of four proteins of
approximately 24.6, 32.9, 39.5, and 45.8 kD. In addition, the viral genome has been determined to be RNA
through nuclease treatment and visualization on a non-denaturing agarose gel. Genome sequencing and diagnostic
PCR development are currently underway.
57
ADDENDUM (POST DEADLINE)
UNDERGRADUATE POSTER PRESENTATION
U.65
Student-Professor Interactions in Spanish vs. American Classrooms
Emily Frank
Faculty Mentor: Virginia Crank, English
With so many students studying abroad during their college career, more information on classroom dynamics
abroad is needed to prepare students for learning experiences in foreign countries, specifically classrooms in
Spain. Attempting to clarify some similarities and differences between American and foreign classrooms, this
study explored classroom interactions between professors and students at a college level in Spanish and American
classrooms. The research looked at classroom formality, classroom format (i.e. lecture, discussion, etc.), and
language reflecting the relationships between students and professors among other aspects of classroom
interaction. The research took place during three classes a week during the fall semester of 2007 at the Universitas
Castallae in Valladolid, Spain, and two class periods a week for the spring semester of 2008 at the University of
Wisconsin-La Crosse. Data was collected solely through observation during class times. I hypothesized that while
each teacher uses his/her own teaching techniques and styles in the classroom, student interactions and
participation will play a key role in both Spanish and United States classrooms. Also, I hypothesized that while
Spanish classrooms might have a higher level of formality than American classrooms in interaction, the language
used throughout both universities would reflect the traditional power structure of the professor as the central
authority.
U.66
Contrasting Responses to Prejudice: German Jews and African Americans – 1920s-1960s
Vanessa Armstrong
Faculty Mentor: Mark Malisa, Educational Studies
This project provides a historical account of Anti-Jewish prejudice in Germany; and Anti-Black prejudice in the
United States and contrasts the different responses to prejudice in both contexts (during and immediately after the
Second World War). African Americans found themselves subject to second class citizenship status in a country
they claimed as their own, just as German-Jews found themselves in a holocaust in a country with which they
identified. The responses to prejudice in the different contexts are sometimes parallel, while on some occasions
there are discontinuities. Among the responses include emigration, exile, resistance, assimilation, collaboration,
and flirtations with Marxism or Communism. While some African Americans left the United States for Europe
and Africa, German Jews left Germany and Europe for the Americas (United States included) and Africa.
Wherever they settled, both German Jews and African Americans set up cultural and educational institutions that
ensured the survival of their cultures. The findings have implications for theories of Anti-Semitism and AntiBlack prejudice as well as the development of group threat perspectives/responses on prejudice and inter-group
conflict generally. Keywords: anti-Semitism, racism, anti-Black prejudice, group threat, prejudice, group position,
inter-group relations.
U.67
Effects of The “What is Beautiful is Good” Stereotype on Perceived Trustworthiness
Erin Shinners
Faculty Mentor: Betsy Morgan, Psychology
This study examined the effects of the “what is beautiful is good” stereotype. Physical attractiveness plays a
major role in decision-making in situations such as romantic partner choices, hiring decisions, and voting
behavior (Langlois & Kalakanis, 2000). Attractive and unattractive photos of men and women were rated with
58
respect to how likable, attractive, and trustworthy they were perceived to be. Attractive female individuals were
perceived as the most trustworthy.
UR.44 Boating Law Communication: The Effects it has on Boaters Safety When Drinking Alcohol
Calie Eck
Faculty Mentor: Gretchen Berns, Recreation Management and Therapeutic Recreation, Ronda
Smith, Communication Studies
This project provides a historical account of Anti-Jewish prejudice in Germany; and Anti-Black prejudice in the
United States and contrasts the different responses to prejudice in both contexts (during and immediately after the
Second World War). African Americans found themselves subject to second class citizenship status in a country
they claimed as their own, just as German-Jews found themselves in a holocaust in a country with which they
identified. The responses to prejudice in the different contexts are sometimes parallel, while on some occasions
there are discontinuities. Among the responses include emigration, exile, resistance, assimilation, collaboration,
and flirtations with Marxism or Communism. While some African Americans left the United States for Europe
and Africa, German Jews left Germany and Europe for the Americas (United States included) and Africa.
Wherever they settled, both German Jews and African Americans set up cultural and educational institutions that
ensured the survival of their cultures. The findings have implications for theories of Anti-Semitism and AntiBlack prejudice as well as the development of group threat perspectives/responses on prejudice and inter-group
conflict generally. Keywords: anti-Semitism, racism, anti-Black prejudice, group threat, prejudice, group position,
inter-group relations.
59
2008 RECIPIENTS OF UNDERGRADUATE
RESEARCH & CREATIVITY GRANTS
SPRING 2008
Armstrong, Vanessa
Educational Studies
Faculty
Sponsor(s)
Mark Malisa
Barton, Jane
Psychology
Carmen Wilson
Beilman, Michael
Economics
Donna Anderson
Microfinance Institutions: A Win-Win For All
Browning, Devon
Art
Jennifer Terpstra
Contemporary Thai Female Painters
Eck, Calie
Chinnock, Adam
Fannin, Luke
Recreation
Management
History
Gretchen Berns
Favorite, Rachel
Mathematics
Barbara Bennie
Correlation between Boating Accidents and
Alcohol
The Real Voice in Contemporary African
Literature
Strategic Market Games with Finite Bayesian
Learning: The Uniform Case
Flaherty, Tricia
Microbiology
William Schwan
Screening Fungal and Plant Extracts for
Cytotoxicity
Gilland, Stephanie
Loshek, Eevett
Psychology
Alex O'Brien
Ambient Food Orders and Their Influence on
Pregnant Women’s Moods
Goodman, Alexandra
Recreation
Management
Gretchen Berns
Commercial Recreation: Teen and Adult
Recreational Activities Onboard Cruise Ships
Gutierrez, Sam
Theatre Arts
William Clow
Life under a Yellow Bridge
Hoppe, Christina
Community Health
Education
Robert Jecklin
Ecotourism in the Cuzco Region and the
Relationship to Community Health
Jeanes, Elizabeth
O’Brien, Kacie
Exercise and Sport
Science
Rebecca Battista
Nutritional Intake and the Impact to
Performance in Age Group Swimmers
Kaul, Alexander
Losey, Renee
Recreation
Management
Gretchen Berns
Reporting the Needs of Washington Square Park
Damaged through Natural Disaster for Means
of Donation Allocation: A Case Study Approach
Kordus, Shannon
Biology
Anne Galbraith
Examination of the Suppression of cdc7-1 by the
bob1 Mutation in Meiosis in Yeast
Leach, Raymond
Mathematics
Barbara Bennie
Lessard, Gina
Communication
Studies
Scott Dickmeyer
Musalem-Perez,
Natasha
Sociology and
Archaeology
Christine Hippert
Strategic Market Games with Finite Bayesian
Learning: The Non-Parametric Case
Persuasion, Symbols, and Alfajores: A
Qualitative Study on the Unique Advertising
Approaches in Argentina
Looking for the Past in the Present:
Ethnoarchaeology of Plant Utilization in Rural
Bolivia
Student
Department
Mariana Candido
60
Proposal Title
Contrasting Perspectives on Responses to
Prejudice: German Jews and African Americans
The Hardiness of Hope: The Relationship of
Prior Victimization with Dating Self Efficacy
Student
Department
Faculty
Sponsor(s)
Cordial Gillette
Proposal Title
Olsen, Kate
Exercise and Sport
Science
Olson, Eric
Educational Studies
Mark Malisa
Riccioli, Cassandra
Ratter, Emilie
Psychology
Tracie Blumentritt
Technology, Education, and Culture in K-12
Namibian Education
“If I am a Slut, Then What is He?”: A
Developmental Analysis of the Sexual Double
Standard
Rogers, Jaclyn
Sociology and
Archaeology
Tim McAndrews
Radiocarbon Dating of Pirque Alto (CP-11)
Rydel, Rachel
Psychology
Dung Ngo
Schott, Amy
Sociology and
Archaeology
Community Health
Education
Tim McAndrews
Coping and Stress in Dementia Caregivers:
Does Gender Play a Role?
Culture Contact in Costa Rican Prehistory
Shinners, Erin
Psychology
Betsy Morgan
Taylor, Kristin
Philosophy
Omar Rivera
A Phenomenological Interpretation of Descartes
Thompson, Alex
Sociology and
Archaeology
Timothy
Gongaware
Collegiate Value Interpretations: An Approach
to Validity in Values Approach
Veldre, Charlie
Educational Studies
Mark Malisa
Bridge to Vernacular
Vice, Katie
Art
Roger Grant
Vue, Mai la
Art
Jennifer Terpstra
Photographic Printing on Non-traditional
Materials
Aftermath of the Secret War: An Interpretation
of Hmong Ways of Life in the United States and
in Thailand
Seger, Erin
Keely Rees
Comparing Pre-Performance Meal Composition
of Female Collegiate Gymnasts to Anaerobic
Meal Compositions Recommended by Current
Literature
A Comparison of Cancer Control Organizations
and Support Groups in the United States and the
United Kingdom
Effects of the “What is Beautiful is Good”
Stereotype on Perceived Trustworthiness
FALL 2008
Barbiaux, Timothy
Theatre Arts
Faculty
Sponsor(s)
Mandy Hart
Baur, Tyler
Lukes, Dylan
Bhatia, Vinisha
Mathematics
Sherwin Toribio
Management
John Betton
Blazek, Kelliann
Modern Languages
Darlene Lake
Borden, Katy
Elementary
Education, Spanish
Jean Janecki
Student
Department
61
Proposal Title
Scenic Design of The Balkan Women
An Evaluation of the IRG models through Monte
Carlo Simulation
Empowering Women: Self Employed Women’s
Association's Alternative Business Model
The Social Portrayal of Hispanics in
Agricultural Media Outlets
Integrating Technology into Foreign Language
Education
Student
Department
Faculty
Sponsor(s)
Proposal Title
Clark, Ryan
Women’s Studies
Deborah Hoskins
DeLapp, Rebecca
Art
Joel Elgin
Fish, Alyssa
Biology
Nick Downey
Protein Interaction between Basal Body and
kDNA Complex within Typanosoma brucei
Gratz, Scott
Biology
Jennifer Miskowski
Investigating the Role of the Conserved NUD-1
Protein in C. elegans Sperm Development
Gutierrez, Shaheen
Sociology and
Archaeology
Christine Hippert
The Effect of Trade on Traditional Subsistence
Patterns in Eastern Tanzania: The Case of the
Masaai
Heier, Robin
Sociology and
Archaeology
Constance Arzigian
Woodland Occupation at the Lower Sand Lake
Site (47LC45), Onalaska, WI
Helgesen, Caitlin
Modern Languages
Jean Hindson
Mexican Immigrant Challenges in the United
States Public School System: A Case Study of
Two Schools
Henze, Elizabeth
Psychology
Betsy L. Morgan
Sex Sells: Sexiness and Perceived Competence
in Male vs. Female Rock Musicians
Holle, Kristen
Health Education
and Health
Promotion
Karen Skemp-Arlt
Children’s Health Attitudes and
Behaviors/Effectiveness of Healthy Body Image
Curriculum
Irvine, Nate
Microbiology
Michael Winfrey
Antimicrobial Properties of Black Walnuts
Jacob, Brittany
Theatre Arts
Joe Anderson
Romeo and Juliet: A Study of Irish Clothing
Johannes, Andrew
Biology
Bradley Seebach
In Vivo EMG/In Vitro Spinal Cord Central
Pattern Generator Comparison
Jubert, Tom
Psychology
Dung Ngo
Kahl, Eric
Modern Languages
Darlene Lake
Who Seeks Help? A Global Perspective on
Attitudes toward Seeking Professional
Psychological Help: Vietnam, Hong Kong, and
the United States
Youth Culture in Coastal Ecuador
Karoll, Amy
Sociology and
Archaeology
Constance Arzigian
A Comparative Study of Ancient Weaving
Techniques
King, Erick
English
Bryan Kopp
Kirsch, Krysten
Recreation
Management
Steven Simpson,
Gretchen Berns
“Let Us Be the Ones that Do Something”: The
Depiction of Criminal Characters in Crime
Graphic Fiction
Environmental Philosophies of College Students
in Vietnam and the U.S.
62
Problematizing Study Abroad Program
Inclusion of LGBT Students: A Qualitative
Study
Beyond the Letterpress: Text, Image, and the
Artists’ Book through a Female Perspective
Kordus, Shannon
Biology
Faculty
Sponsor(s)
Anne Galbraith
Krueger, Sarah Marie
Microbiology
William Schwan
Screening Synthetic Analogs for AntiMycobacterial Activity
Krug, Maddison
Exercise and Sport
Science
Rebecca A. Battista
Transportation Means Relating to Physical
Activity in College Students
Millis, Krysta
Health Education
and Health
Promotion
Chemistry,
Biology
Karen Skemp-Arlt
Children's Health Attitudes and
Behaviors/Effectiveness of Healthy Body Image
Curriculum
Up-regulation of the Serotonin Transport
Protein in the Rat Brain
Health Education
and Health
Promotion
Community Health
Education
Marcie WycoffHorn
Nelson, Jaime
English
Matthew Cashion
Nettesheim, Neal
Biology
Bradley Seebach
Ott, Katherine
Mathematics
James Peirce
Pfaffenroth, Jake
Sociology and
Archaeology
James Theler
Explaining the Archaeological Presence of a
Pronghorn in Southwestern Wisconsin
Pitel, Julie
Women’s Studies
Deborah Hoskins
New Guatemalan Adoption Policies: Who are
They Policing?
Polzin, Lindsey
Economics
Donna M.
Anderson
A Building Block for the Economy of Tanzania
Rafn, Gregory
Sociology and
Archaeology
Carol Miller
How to Stay Healthy? An Exploration in Local
Attitudes Towards U.S. Health Care Policy
Reuter, Brandon
Biology
Anne Galbraith
Analysis of dbf4 bob1 Mutant Yeast during
Meiosis
Rich, Jennifer
Sociology and
Archaeology
Constance Arzigian
A Comparative Study of Human Mortuary
Practices and Cultural Complexity
Rohr, Stephanie
History
Andrew Hamilton
The United States' Response to and the
Aftermath of the Rwandan Genocide
Ryan, Nicholas
Biology
Nick Downey
Protein Interaction between Basal Body and
kDNA Complex Within Typanosoma brucei
Student
Moore, Tyler
Putman, Nicole
Temple, Jack
Mundt, Malory
Navarre, Stephanie
Nielsen, Gina
Perkl, Liz
Department
Aaron Monte,
Bradley Seebach
Keely Rees, R.
Daniel Duquette,
Matt Vogel
63
Proposal Title
Examination of the Suppression of cdc7-1 by the
bob1 Mutation in Meiosis Yeast
Will the Implementation of a Stress Reduction
Program Positively Impact the Stress Levels of
Adolescents?
Sex on the Beach: An Interactive Look at
Perceptions of Sexual Behavior and Alcohol
Consumption in College Students on Spring
Break
The Importance of Revision: Rewriting a Novel,
Finding an Editor, Getting Published
In Vivo EMG/In Vitro Spinal Cord Central
Pattern Generator Comparison
Biodiversities Affect on Modeling West Nile
Virus
Student
Department
Sabatino, Sadie
Health Education
and Health
Promotion
Sociology and
Archaeology
Seifert, Kallie
Faculty
Sponsor(s)
Marcie WycoffHorn
Tim McAndrews
Proposal Title
Will the Implementation of a Stress Reduction
Program Positively Impact the Stress Levels of
Adolescents?
A Comparative Analysis of Skeletal Remains
from Cochabamba, Bolivia
Staats, Jonathan
Theatre Arts
Walter Elder &
Beth Cherne
Grand-Guignol: In Living Horror
Stasiewski, Dan
Biology
Nick Downey
Unknown “Topoisomerase-like” Protein
Identification in Typanosomes
Symmank, Shane
Biology
Eric A. Strauss
Nutrient Limitation of Periphyton in Western
Wisconsin Trout Streams
Turriff, Emily
Sociology &
Archaeology
James Theler
Analysis of Fish Remains from an Oneota
Feature at the Krause Site
Walker, Leah
Sociology and
Archaeology
Timothy
Gongaware
Williams, Katelynn
Finance, Economics
Winkler, Abby
Microbiology
Wood, Jacob
Sociology and
Archaeology
Christine Hippert
De-Coloniality in the Pirwa-Communal
Development in Huancarani, Bolivia
Yang, Ger
Management
John Betton
Investigating the Agricultural Techniques used
by the Hmong in Chiang Mai Province,
Thailand
Doing Gender: A Comparative Ethnographic
Study of Children in Tanzania and the United
States
Barbara Rusterholz, The French Response to the United States’
Laurie Strangman
Financial Crisis: An Economic and Social
Perspective
Marc Rott, Thomas Purification of Antifungal Drug Candidates
Volk
from Mushrooms
64
2008 RECIPIENTS OF GRADUATE RESEARCH,
SERVICE, AND EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARDS
SPRING 2008
Student
Program
Faculty
Sponsor(s)
John Porcari
Title
Boehlke, Nathan
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Boyer, Blake
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Human Performance
John Porcari
Carl Foster
A Comparison of Treadmill and Overground
Running at Threshold Pace
Student Affairs
Administration
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Larry Ringgenberg
A Comparative Study of Collegiate Involvement
in Asian and American Universities
Physiological Responses and Exercise Intensity
of Nintendo Wii Fit
Walberg, Eric
Biology
Tom Volk
The Role of Melanin in Radiotrophy: Testing
Melanized and Non-Melanized Fungi
Fitschen, Peter
Physiology
Margaret Maher
Galamback, Krystal
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Carl Foster
Effects of English or Black Walnut Consumption
on Red Blood Cell Membrane Fatty Acid
Composition
Pacing Strategy in the Six Minute Walk Test:
The Effect of Repeated Trials
Hardcastle, Lacey
LaMunyon, Julie
Physical Therapy
John Greany
Tom Kernozek
Clinical and Biomechanical Risk Factors in the
Diabetic Foot in Native Americans
Hayes, Courtney
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Carl Foster
Running Economy at Steady State versus High
Speeds
Henslin, Kayla
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Carl Foster
Rapidity of Response to Hypoxic Conditions
during Exercise
Hulseberg, Christine
Clinical
Microbiology
Therapeutic
Recreation
Mike Hoffman
Larson Hillary; Jones,
Claire; Hackbarth,
Alaina; Moes, Theresa;
Bergstrom, Jennifer
Lulloff, Jason
Occupational
Therapy
Robin McCannon
Identification of a Novel Late Domain in Human
Parainfluenza Type 3 Matrix Protein
Acquiring Multisensory Room Training as
Professional Development and implementation
for Internship
International Practice of Occupational Therapy
Physical Education
Jeff Steffen
Heart Rates Associated with Waterfowl Hunting
Activities in Males
Miller, Amanda
Masters of Public
Health
Keely Rees
The Significance of Pregnancy Behaviors on
Infant Birth Weight
Brown, Paul
Buhrandt, Megan
Carrol, Alexa
Kirschbaum, Lindsey
John Porcari
Susan ‘Boon’
Murray
65
Evaluation of Muscle Activity during
Conventional Push-ups Compared to the Perfect
Pushup
Assessing the Krankcycle
Student
Program
Faculty
Sponsor(s)
Tom Kernozek
Patrek , Mary
Human Performance
Prieboy, Michelle
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Carl Foster
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Community Health
Education
Carl Foster
Clinical Exercise
Physiology
Student Affairs
Administration
John Porcari
Schnettler, Chad
Shatzer, Jenna
Stockman, Marybeth
Streit, Katherine
Thomas, Jaimee
Unertl, Dorrie
John Porcari
Carl Foster
Gary Gilmore
John Hageseth
Title
Fatigue Progression and the Effects on Landing
Performance
The Effect of Auditory Input on Perceived
Exertion during Cycling
Energy Cost and Relative Intensity of Kettlebell
Workout
The Effects of PDE-5 Inhibitors on PostExercise Hypotension Following High-Intensity
Exercise
The Effect of Warm-Up on VO2 Kinetics during
Heavy Exercise
Creating a Handbook of Case Studies: Policy
and Environmental Change Initiatives from
Steps to a Healthier Minnesota Sites
Energy Expenditure and Relative Exercise
Intensity of Dancetown
SAA Study Tour to the UK
FALL 2008
Student
Program
Faculty Sponsor
Title
Bintzler, Ashly
Therapeutic
Recreation
Susan ‘Boon’
Murray
Acquiring Sibshop Certification as Professional
Development and Facilitating and Promoting
Sibling Support
Boateng, Lindsy
Biology
David Howard
Burns, Benjamin
Psychology
Rob Dixon
Cannady, Emmanuel
Student Affairs
Administration
Al Thompson
Northwick, Reid
Biology
Roger Haro
Determining if PKA Binds to AKAP Proteins the
Axoneme of Chlamydomonas Reinhardtii
Flagella
Wisconsin School Psychologists Association
Conference
The African-American College Student
Experience: A Qualitative Approach at the
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Growth Responses of a Suspension-feeding
Caddisfly (Trichoptera: Hydropsychidae) to
Changes in Tiverine Seston Quantity and
Quality
Pesanka, Geoffrey
Biology
Scott Cooper
Sammons, Lindsay
Microbiology
Sanjay Shukla
Stern, Heather
Special Education
Carol Angell
“Special Education in Ireland”: A Comparative
Study
Tewalt, Brandon
Special Education
Carol Angell
“CESA #4 Special Education Funding”
66
Screening for Inhibitors of Platelet Activation in
Fungi
Genetic Studies on Two Staphylococcal
Enterotoxin Genes, seg and sek
GRADUATE AWARD WINNERS
2008 Graduate Thesis Awards Recipient:
Mary Jo Michels – Community Health Education/Masters of Public Health
Faculty Mentor: Gary Gilmore
2008 Graduate Research Celebration Award Recipients
Elizabeth Burand – Biology
Faculty Mentor: Brad Seebach
2008 Graduate Academic Achievement Award Recipient:
Janae Halm – Community Health Education
Faculty Mentor: Gary Gilmore
67
2008-09 UNDERGRADUATE & GRADUATE COMMITTEES
Undergraduate Research Committee Members & Consultants
• Tim Gongaware, Chair
• Kathryn Birkeland, Vice Chair
• James Peirce, Secretary
• Nicholas Downey
• Aric Opdahl
• Bonnie Bratina
• Omar Rivera
• Keely Rees
• Bart Van Voorhis
• Jason Schroeder, Student Representative
• Natasha Musalem-Perez, Student Representative
• Vijendra Agarwal, Consultant
• Amery Bodelson, Consultant
Graduate Council Committee Members & Consultants
• Vijendra Agarwal
• Robert Dixon, Chair
• Carol Angell
• Thomas Kuffel (Fall 2008)
• James Finch
• S.N. Rajagopal
• Michele Thorman
• Bernadette Taylor-Winfrey
• David Reineke, Secretary
• Glenn Wright
• Ashley Olson, Student Representative
• Kenny Hunt (Fall 2008)
• Scott Sweeden, Student Representative (Fall 2008)
• Tom Kernozek (Spring 2009)
• Kasi Periyasamy (Spring 2009)
• Kristin Van Vleet, Student Representative (Spring 2009)
• Ray Abhold, Consultant
• Chris Bakkum, Consultant
• Bruce May, Consultant
• Charles Martin-Stanley, Consultant
68
PRESENTER INDEX
U=undergraduate poster; UR=undergraduate oral; G=graduate poster; GO=graduate oral; E=exhibit
Presenter
Alexander, Amanda
Arnold, Meagan
Axland, Sara
Baldwin, Brooke
Banuelos, Victor
Barbknecht, Marisa
Baur, Tyler
Beilman, Michael
Belter, Andrew
Benrud, Jake
Bentley, Candice
Bhatia, Vinisha
Bintzler, Ashly
Bisek, Adam
Blazek, Kelliann
Borden, Katy
Browning, Devon
Buhrandt, Megan
Burns, Ben
Campfield, Megan
Cassidy, Patrick
Cheng, Mao
Clark, Therese
Cocchiola, Matthew
Depies, Andrew
Ding, Hua
Drietz, Maria
Engelbrecht, Kathleen
Favorite, Rachel
Fiers, Will
Fish, Alyssa
Fisher, Marnie
Fitschen, Peter
Fitzwater, Allison
Flaherty, Tricia
Frank, Emily
Gantz, Patricia
Gardner, Eric
Gardner, Eric
Genthe, Katlin
Goodman, Alexandra
Gratz, Scott
Groshek, Matthew
Gustafson, Bruce
Gutierrez, Shaheen
Halm, Nate
Hartl, Brad
Hartl, Brad
Hatch, Anna
Helgesen, Caitlin
Abstract
Number
U.45
U.27
U.46
UR.11
U.28
G.13
UR.35
UR.36
UR.3
U.34
UR.18
UR.37
G.9
U.50
U.51
UR.29
UR.22
G.3
G.2
UR.13
U.6
U.15
U.46
U.39
UR.38
G.12
UR.20
U.32
UR.23
UR.20
U.47
UR.30
GO.1
U.63
U.41
U.65
U.42
UR.1
UR.4
U.2
U.64
U.33
UR.21
UR.20
UR.27
U.46
UR.32
UR.34
U.11, UR.5
UR.12
Presenter
Helmeid, Roxanne
Henze, Elizabeth
Hocking, Jason
Holan, Angela
Holle, Kristen
Irvine, Nate
Jacob, Brittany
Jeanes, Elizabeth
Johnson, Adam
Jubert, Thomas
Jurek, Samuel
Kaercher, Kyra
Karoll, Amy
Kasper, Racheal
Kastner, Andy
Kaul, Alex
Kirsch, Krysten
Kirschbaum, Lindsey
Kohlnhofer, Bridget
Kordus, Shannon
Kramer, Rachel
Kramer, Rachel
Krueger, Sarah
Krug, Maddison
Kulgina, Yevgenia
Kutz, Thomas L.
Lanska, Joseph
Lanzel, Paul
Leach, Raymond
LeClair, Brenna
Lefebvre, Breeann
Lessard, Gina
Lopez, Tim
Losey, Renee
Loshek, Eevett
Lubahn, Amanda
Lukes, Dylan
Merkitch, Kenneth
Miller, Jackie
Millis, Krysta
Mohr, Beth
Musalem-Perez, Natasha
Nelson, Jaime
O’Brien, Kacie
O’Connell, Kaci
Oebser, Andrew
Olson, Eric
Oswald, Trevor
Parsley, Sadie
69
Abstract
Number
U.1
U.62
U.48
U.9
U.56
U.16
E.3
U.24
U.30
U.10
U.31
UR.28
U.58
U.12
G.5
U.43
U.49
G.4
U.34
U.7
UR.26
UR.41
U.25
U.35
UR.9
UR.15
U.2
UR.10
UR.23
U.14
U.3
UR.39
U.54
U.43
U.19
G.7
UR.35
G.7
U.46
U.56
G.1
UR.19
UR.2
U2.4
UR.31
U.46
U.26
UR.23
G.6
Presenter
Patrek, Mary
Pesanka, Geoffrey
Pitel, Julie
Pluym, Garrett
Polanowski, Rebecca
Polzin, Lindsey
Polzin, Andrew
Rafn, Gregory
Ratter, Emilie
Reuter, Brandon
Reynolds, Ezekiel
Riccioli, Cassandra
Rich, Jennifer
Riebe, Joe
Robinson, Jerome
Rogers, Jaclyn
Rohr, Stephanie
Ryan, Nicholas
Rydel, Rachel
Sackmann, Valentine
Schenck, Kyle
Schmidt, Gretchen
Schott, Amy
Schreiner, Sarah
Schroeder, Jason
Seifert, Kallie
Shudy, David
Singer, James
Staats, Jonathan
Stasiewski, Daniel
Swartz, Christianne
Symmank, Shane
Taylor, Kristin
Thompson, Alex
Thorson, Nicholas
Turriff, Emily
Tyson, Tiffany
Unertl, Dorrie
Vice, Katie
Vue, Mai Ia
Willcutt, Aaron
Wilson, Kurt
Winkler, Abby
Yang, Ger
Abstract
Number
G.8
G.11
UR.25
U.60
U.32, U.25
U.61
UR.14
UR.6
U.22
U.29
U.3
U.22
U.57
UR.8
UR.17
U.20
U.17
U.47
U.59
U.40
U.38
U.52
UR.33
U.44, UR.5
U.13
U.53
UR.5
U.40
U.4
U.23
UR.16
U.8
UR.40
U.18
UR.7
U.55
G.7
G.10
E.1
E.2
U.5
UR.24
U.36
U.21
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The 2009 Celebration of Student Research and Creativity is sponsored by the UW-La Crosse Office
of Research and Sponsored Programs, with funding from the Provost and Vice Chancellor for
Academic Affairs, UW-L Foundation, Office of International Education, and the Office of Graduate
Studies.
Our special thanks are due to Amanda Goodenough, Campus Climate, for her creative talent in
designing the banner and booklet cover. We also acknowledge the continued support from the
members of the Undergraduate Research Committee and the Graduate Council.
The staff and student workers of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs and Graduate
Studies also deserve due acknowledgment for coordinating all aspects of the Celebration event.
Thank you.
ABSTRACT BOOK EDITORS
Nicole Johnson
Callie Frieler
Amery Bodelson
Kelliann Blazek
COMMENTS or SUGGESTIONS?
We welcome your comments and suggestions about the Celebration. Please send them to
stdtresearch@uwlax.edu.
70