2:00-3:00pm: Posters and Exhibits, Science Building Atrium
Ike Agho, ―Solvated ammonium salts of molybdenum halide clusters‖
The molybdenum halide clusters, [Mo6X8Y6]2-, and related compounds
have attracted considerable interest due to their unique photophysical
properties. We have prepared several molybdenum chloride salts and
structurally characterized these compounds using single-crystal X-ray
diffraction. Crystals of the bis(anilinium) and the 1,4phenylenediammonium salts were grown from dimethylformamide
solutions. The crystal structures of these complexes display cations
"solvated" by the dimethylformamide molecules through extensive
hydrogen bonding interactions. In the 1,4-phenylenediammonium case,
addition of acetone solvent accidentally produced a Schiff-base product,
the structure of which will also be presented. (Advisor: Dr. Dean Johnston)
Katelin Aisenbrey, ―Development of a High Throughput, Colorimetric Gold
Nanoparticle-Based Assay for Heparin‖
A high throughput, colorimetric gold nanoparticle based assay for the
polyanion heparin has been developed. Unfractionated heparin is an
anticoagulant that is widely used in settings such as hemodialysis and
open-heart surgeries. Although methods to quantify heparin exist, most
are time consuming and rely on indirect measurements of heparin that are
affected by hemodilution and other factors. In this work, protamine, the
polycationic antidote to heparin, is immobilized onto the surface of
microtiter plate wells to serve as the heparin recognition agent. Heparin is
monitored by exploiting the binding of heparin with protamine and cationic
cysteamine-capped gold nanoparticles. The surface plasmon resonance
of the cysteamine-capped nanoparticles changes upon binding to heparin,
causing a distinct color change from red to blue. When protamine is
present, however, a shift toward red is observed. The amount of heparin
is then quantified by measuring this color change using UV-vis
spectrometry. This method provides the advantages of being a direct
measure of heparin (Advisor: Dr. Joan Esson)
Hannah Biggs and Jacqlyn Schott, ―kate: Otterbein University‘s feminist zine‖
kate is a student-run, feminist publication sponsored by the Women‘s,
Gender, and Sexuality Studies program. It is a pro-woman and womancentered journal that risks new ways of thinking and speaking about
gender and sexuality. kate publishes pieces that are critical or creative,
mainstream or experimental, and verbal or visual. (Advisor: Dr. Tammy
Birk)
Joshua Branch, ―Technical Direction of Angels in America‖
Every main stage show at Otterbein has a technical director, a person that
is responsible for managing the construction of the scenic elements along
with design and implementation of special effects. As technical director
for Angels in America, I was faced with two challenges. First was the
construction of the scenic elements. Second was the more difficult
challenge of researching, designing and creating the special effects
needed for the last moments of the show, including columns that crack
apart, a backdrop that falls to the ground, a motorized platform that rolls
across the stage, and wind to bring life to the angels wings. Using
techniques learned during the development of motorized and automated
controls for two earlier Otterbein Theatre productions, I developed a third
system for Angels in America. The general system was controlled by two
small Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), the same controllers that
are used in industrial applications like assembly lines. This provided
programmable interfaces to actuators, motors and control buttons. With
proper mechanical design of release mechanisms and motor drives, one
operator could use buttons to trigger lines of code in the PLC which in turn
activated each special effect. The computer then aided reset functions
allowed for a quick reset, allowing minimal time to be lost during
rehearsals. Since the development of this system one-off system, I have
been developing a more sustainable system that can be reused for many
years to come. This new system‘s debut will be in May 2012 during the
production of Gypsy. (Advisor: Professor Rob Johnson)
Aba Bransah, ―Large Scale Structural Variations in the HLA-DR & -DP Loci of the
Human Major Histocompatibility Complex‖
The MHC (Major Histocompatability Complex) is the most polymorphic
region in the genome. It has been associated with many common
autoimmune diseases such as Rhumetory Arthritis (RA), Type I Diabetes
(T1D), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), and
other common infections. Many studies have extensively studied the
polymorphisms in the MHC on identifying structural variations within the
MHC, but large scale variation has not been as heavily investigated and
characterized. We have investigated the role of large scale variation within
the MHC in relation to copy number variation (CNV). Using genomic DNAs
from homozygous HLA typed cell line from patients with RA, SLE, and
T1D were digested with Pme I and analyzed by pulsed field gel
electrophoresis (PFGE), Southern blotting and hybridization with HLA-DR
& DP locus specific probes. It was discovered that large-scale (i.e. >
100kb) variations in DR consistent with previously described haplotype
associated DRB geneCopy Number Variation, and novel smaller-scale
(i.e. ~20kb) secondary intra-haplotype structural variations and to our
knowledge, previously unreported structural variations in the DP sub-
region. With this is study the future goal is to continue heavily researching
these large scale structural variations, characterize their regions and
examine the history of their evolutionary and the possible impacts on HLA
with respect autoimmune and infectious disease. (Advisor: Prof. Simon K.
Lawrance)
Alana Cheplowitz, ―Gene Regulation of the Chaplins in Streptomyces coelicolor‖
Our laboratory is interested in signaling pathways using the small second
messenger cyclic di-GMP. The two genes our laboratory has already
characterized are rmdA and rmdB, which break down c-di-GMP. The
potential gene targets of cyclic di-GMP signaling in the bacterium
Steptomyces coelicolor include the genes encoding the chaplins. The
chaplins are a layer of aerial mycelium surface proteins that allow the
aerial hyphae to break the surface tension, they also become part of the
extracellular matrix and are involved in biofilm attachment. This group of
eight proteins (ChpA-H), coat the aerial hyphae assisting spore dispersal
and the colonization of the surrounding soil. Functional amyloid fibers are
secreted by many bacteria to aid in surface attachment, such as those
formed by the chaplins in Streptomyces coelicolor. Amyloids are insoluble
fibrous protein aggregates sharing specific structural traits. They are also
associated with many serious human diseases, such as Alzheimer‘s and
Parkinson‘s disease. Little is known about the chaplins gene regulation so
this project is a great way to better understand the chaplins as well as
cyclic di-GMP signaling in Streptomyces. (Advisor: Dr. Jennifer Bennett)
Daniel Combs, Kahla Johnson, Danny Lebsock, Josh Overholser, Ruth Payne,
Sydney Salerno, ―Images of Otterbein, A Video Production‖
As part of our Intermediate Video Production class, we were required to
use our creative, productive, and editing skills to create promotional
departmental videos. We researched the departments and compiled a list
of departments that we thought would benefit the most from a video
promotion. We all then worked closely with each department to determine
a message and how the final video should look. We had meetings with the
department heads and gathered background information. Not only did we
get to create an informative video, but this project allowed for us to meet
new people and be exposed to new areas of campus. We were all very
happy to present our final projects to the departments and see our work
put to good use to promote these departments and hopefully aid in
enrolement to the University. This project was beneficial to us all. We had
to learn time management to the extreme. We had to schedule meetings
and times to shoot interviews and leave time to re-shoot if anything went
wrong. We also had to add in editing time and the making of graphics. All
in all, this was a project that we left with a feeling of accomplishment for a
job well done. (Advisors: Keith Newman and Jenn Kiser)
Rebecca Copper, ―Evocare: Immersive Art Installation‖
I want it to be apparent that my installation is an example of how someone
will react to imagery shown adjunct with sound and how changing one
element can drastically change the tone and mood of the atmosphere. The
medium used for this installation is a time based medium. It‘s based within
integrated digital media using video and sound. I strongly feel a
connection tied with photography. Having my concentration in
photography I find that when I capture a clip for my video, I compose as I
would a photograph. So with that alone I would extend the discipline of the
project outside of experimenting with video but also with still imagery, in
that context. My original intent was to project my images upon a mirror like
surface, but I have since changed settings for my project. I am exploring
alternative projection surfaces. I am trying out tinted glass surfaces
(windows of the library) in such an area so that a passerby will be caught
off guard, and hopefully drawn in unexpectedly. My inquiry has no solid
conclusion to mark it successful, other than the fact that it is an
experimental installation. It will result in a video installation. The core of
the conclusion will be what the viewer will walk away with. Based on the
connection created by the artist (me, Rebecca Copper) and the viewer
and what kind of experience it becomes. It makes the conclusion open
ended, and I expect the result to vary from person to person. As there is
no practical application for this piece except to be what it is, an
experiential video installation. (Advisor: Professor Jonathan Johnson)
Julianne D‘Errico, ―Design and Fabrication of Costumes for the 2012 Dance
Concert: Spotlight‖
In order for a costume design to be successful, there must be a clever
balance of research, diligence, creativity, and collaboration. For Dance
Concert 2012, I was assigned the role as Costume Designer for Stella
Kane‘s piece, ―To Fred and Bob, With Love.‖ Her choreography for the
piece was inspired by the legendary Bob Fosse, a director known for his
work on the Broadway Premiers of Cabaret and Pippin. His style of dance
focuses on the isolation of specific body parts. From my initial
collaboration with Stella, we both decided that my eight costume designs
needed to embody the Fosse style: sneaky, clever, sleek and alluring.
(Advisor: Professor Rebecca White)
Tony DeGenaro and Whitney Reed, Editors: ―Quiz & Quill Student Literary
Journal‖
Quiz & Quill has represented Otterbein‘s best creative writing since 1919.
Today, the publication is entirely comprised of student work, selected by
an editorial staff of students. This year QQ will have five publications
highlighting poetry, short fiction, and the essay, including a single-author
chapbook. (Advisor: Dr. Shannon Lakanen)
Eleanor Detrich, ―Common Scab: Getting to the ‗Hyphae‘ of the Problem.
Constructing Deletion Mutants in Streptomyces Scabies‖
Streptomycetes have been invaluable organisms of research, now used in
the production of over two-thirds of pharmacologically important
antibiotics. Streptomyces scabies is a filamentous, gram positive,
pathogenic, soil dwelling bacterium that has been shown to be responsible
for Common Scab, a disease that produces scabs and lesions on potato
crops and many other root crops, having great agricultural and economical
implications. The goal of this research is to create deletion mutations of
several genes that are thought to have a role in the regulation of the
virulence of this bacterium. The genes of interest encode the EAL/GGDEF
domain proteins; these proteins control the levels of the ubiquitous second
messenger, cyclic-di-GMP, which has been found to control the virulence
of other organisms. It is hypothesized that the deletion of these genes will
result in reduced virulence of Streptomyces scabies. Using adapted
protocols, including the REDIRECT© lamda red system, the procedure of
creating the deletion mutants is underway. Successful isolation and
amplification of the disruption cassettes has been accomplished. Cotransformation of the cassettes and the S. scabies cosmid by
electroporation is currently in progress, which will result in the creation of
deletion-insertion mutations. Once mutant strains have been constructed,
they will be studied using visual and microscopic analyses, attachment
assays for biofilm formation, and examination of the effect on potato
pathogenesis. This novel and exciting research has great potential to gain
more understanding about cyclic-di-GMP, EAL/GGDEF domain proteins,
and their role in virulence of S. scabies and other bacterial pathogens.
(Advisor: Dr. Jennifer Bennett)
Daniel DuBreuil, ―Characterization of a Perilipin-5 Splice Variant‖
This project seeks to characterize a newly discovered variant of the
protein perilipin-5. Perilipins are a family of proteins that coat lipid storage
droplets and regulate their formation and breakdown. Perilipin-5 is unique
in its ability to recruit enzymes that break down the lipids at the core of the
droplet. The variant in question has never before been studied and it
could play a crucial role in perilipin-5 function and lipid metabolism in
general. In order to do this, we use techniques that quantitate the perilipin
5 message or protein levels. We are able to fix and stain cells at a set
time to determine where the protein is located. This also provides clues
about what function it serves. We assess the perilipin 5 content of various
organs to see what tissues in mice express the protein. Also, we have
looked at the RNA message that codes for the protein to determine how
the variant, rather than the full size protein, is produced. We have
discovered that the variant is expressed in tissues that breakdown lipids,
such as heart and liver. We have also seen that the variant is able to bind
to lipid droplets, but how and why is still unknown. We have also been
able to show that there are two messages of different sizes that could
account for the two variants. Future work will seek to elucidate a possible
function of the variant. This work has implications for both diabetes and
obesity. (Advisor: Dr. John Tansey)
Rebecca Fremer, ―Development of an Interdisciplinary Course Exploring the
Overlap Between Chemistry and Art‖
Chemistry is a subject that many students find difficult due to its complex
subject matter; many misconceptions and misunderstandings of
fundamental scientific ideas present challenges to student learning.
Inquiry-based learning and hands-on laboratory experiences have been
shown to increase student understanding in chemistry. This research
project examined the use of such techniques in the interdisciplinary area
of chemistry and art, looking at how art projects could be used as
introductory experiments to clarify some fundamental chemistry ideas for a
general education audience. At Otterbein, general education requirements
are addressed via the Integrative Studies (INST) program, which reframes
such courses in an interdisciplinary context. The chemistry department‘s
contribution to this program, INST 2402, is entitled ―The Matter of
Chemistry.‖ The experiments outlined in this project were implemented in
a new section of INST 2402, focusing on the overlap of chemistry and art,
which was taught for the first time in Spring 2012. Pertinent laboratory
experiments were identified in such areas as: using light and color to
introduce the wave-particle duality of light; using dyes and their
interactions with different fabrics to illustrate the ideas of molecular
structure and intermolecular forces; and using photographic techniques to
demonstrate the principles governing photochemical reactions. Lab
procedures were developed given a 90-minute time limit and a general
education audience. Initial modes of assessment and evaluation were
recommended, and considerations for future course offerings are
underway, to better gauge how these interdisciplinary experiments might
increase understanding of key chemistry concepts. (Advisor: Dr. Carrigan
Hayes)
Kevin Gallagher and Jennifer Ruano, ―Comparison of the Triple Hop for Distance
and the Y-Balance Test in Healthy Collegiate Division III Male and Female
Athletes‖
Background: Research has shown that the triple hop for distance is a
reliable measurement of strength and power. Hamilton et al were unable
to find a correlation between a measure of static balance and the triple
hop for distance. The Y-Balance Test is a dynamic balance assessment
and may have a positive correlation to the triple hop for distance.
Objective: The objective of this research is to obtain scores for the triple
hop for distance and the Y-Balance Test. A positive correlation would
establish the triple hop for distance as an effective preseason screening
tool for lower limb injury.
Methods: This was an experimental, correlational design conducted in a
university setting. Participants for this research were healthy male and
female Division III collegiate athletes between the ages of 18-23 with no
prior history of lower limb injury. The highest score for the Y-balance test
and triple hop were recorded for each participant. Pearson correlations
were determined for the dependent variables. Alpha level of p < .05 was
set for all statistical analysis.
Results: Results demonstrated a correlation value of r=.75 (p<.01) for the
left leg and r=.77(p<.01) for the right leg for the Y-Balance Test and the
triple hop for distance.
Conclusions: These results support the use of the triple hop for distance
as a test of power and agility and of neuromuscular control and balance.
These findings could allow clinicians to utilize the triple hop test as a
reliable and comprehensive preseason lower extremity injury screening
tool. (Advisor: Dr. Shelley Payne)
Adrianne Garrett, ―Examination of Effect of Diet, pH, and Age on Chitinase
Activity in the Gut of the Yellow-Bellied Slider Turtle Trachemys Scripta‖
The slider turtle, Trachemys scripta, undergoes an ontogenetic dietary
shift. This dietary change is from carnivory to herbivory as the turtle
matures. Chitin is a key component of the exoskeletons of invertebrates
that young turtles eat. Because turtles do not chew their food, chitinase
digestive enzymes help break down the exoskeleton allowing access to
the underlying nutrients. Chitinase activity levels are known in five year
old T. scripta. The purpose of this study was to further describe chitinase
activity by measuring levels in hatchlings and by determining the effects of
pH and diet on that activity. Because the high levels of chitin within a
cricket diet could stimulate an increased production of chitinase, I
hypothesize that chitinase activity would be higher in hatchlings fed
insects than in hatchlings fed plants. I also hypothesized that hatchlings
would have higher chitinase activity than the five year old turtles, because
in their natural habitat, they are more carnivorous. Twenty hatchlings
were fed either a plant or insect diet for three months before they were
euthanized. Stomachs, small intestines, and large intestines were then
collected and homogenized. To detect chitinase activity, a fluorescent tag
of 4-methylumbelliferone was used on a chitin substrate. When chitinase
digests the substrate, the fluorescent tag is cleaved and fluoresces,
allowing quantification of chitinase activity. Each gut segment will be
tested at multiple pHs ranging from 2.1-12.0 to determine optimum
conditions for enzyme activity. Hatchling activity levels will be compared
among diets and to five year old turtles. (Advisors: Dr. Sarah Bouchard
and Dr. John Tansey)
Robert Geiger, ―Streptomyces Phosphodiesterases Regulate Colony
Development and Biofilm Formation‖
Streptomyces coelicolor is a pharmacologically important gram-positive,
filamentous, soil bacterium that displays a complex pattern of
differentiation. The life-cycle begins with the germination of a single spore
into a network of branching vegetative filaments that grow into and on the
substrate surface. An aerial mycelium begins to form and these aerial
filaments are divided into long chains of cells that become mature, graypigmented spores. We show that progression through the Streptomyces
life-cycle requires the activity of two c-di-GMP phosphodiesterases.
Furthermore we demonstrate that the formation of Streptomyces biofilms
depends upon these same phosphodiesterases. Mutants were studied
using phase-contrast microscopy in time course experiments. Biofilm
attachment was assessed by growing strains in uncoated polystyrene
wells, staining with crystal violet and then visually examining wells. The
stain was also solubilized to quantitate the degree of attachment using a
spectrophotometer. C-di-GMP levels were assessed by preparing
nucleotides from the strains and subjecting the samples to liquid
chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. While other bacteria
studied show increased biofilm formation when c-di-GMP levels are high,
our study correlates high c-di-GMP levels with decreased biofilm formation
in Streptomyces coelicolor. Our study implicates a novel pathway for the
involvement of c-di-GMP signaling in Streptomyces biofilm formation. It is
likely that this pathway is also utilized by other streptomycetes comprising
the genus which produces over two-thirds of the world‘s commercially
important antibiotics. (Advisor: Dr. Jennifer Bennett)
Emily S. Herold RN, BSN, ―Postpartum Hemorrhage Cart: Implementation onto a
Maternity Unit‖
In the flash of a moment a new mother can die, for without proper care
and equipment the birthing process can be deadly. Every four minutes a
woman dies worldwide from a postpartum hemorrhage, and this childbirth
complication is still the number one killer of pregnant women. Even with
advances in technology, women are still hemorrhaging after deliveries.
The importance of understanding postpartum hemorrhages and
interventions can save maternal lives. Implementing a postpartum
hemorrhage cart a maternity unit will help increase maternal safety and
effectiveness of care. The postpartum hemorrhage cart includes all the
supplies and equipment that could be used during a postpartum
hemorrhage. Included in this cart is a Bakri Balloon, this is an intrauterine
balloon catheter that decreases uterine bleeding and operative procedures
on hemorrhaging women. Before implementation of this cart, staff
education regarding postpartum hemorrhages and interventions were
provided to all maternity staff nurses during their annual unit competency
fair. Simulation of a hemorrhaging patient after a vaginal delivery was
performed to educate the staff about the cart and how it can be used on
the maternity unit. The nurses were able to learn what equipment and
supplies were in the cart. Also, a flowchart was added to the top of the cart
for the nurses to follow during a hemorrhage. This flowchart contains stepby-step processes on interventions and medications that could be used
during a postpartum hemorrhage. By increasing staff nurses' knowledge
and skills regarding postpartum hemorrhages this will decrease maternal
morbidity and mortality. (Advisor: Professor Barbara Nash)
Boris Hinderer, ―Predictors of Sustained Attention within a Global-Local
Processing Task‖
The present study investigated individual differences that might predict the
ability to sustain attention and ignore distractions through the use of a
global-local processing task. Global-local processing is a well-researched
theory that suggests that visual scenes are perceived either at the
wholistic global level, or at the analytic local level. Participants were
asked to vary the focus of their attention between the big-picture global
elements of an image and the smaller local elements of an image. To
measure predictors of performance on this task I used the five-factor
personality inventory and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Extraversion
and trait anxiety were linked to decreased ability to sustain attention in the
Local task. The current findings add to the existing literature on GlobalLocal processing and individual differences. The results of this study can
be used by human factors researchers who examine job success in fields
such as medical monitoring, airport security screening, and the remote
operation of unmanned military vehicles. (Advisor: Dr. Cynthia LaurieRose)
Elizabeth Holthaus, ―Wii Focus Your Attention: Workload Predicts Performance
on Attention and Physical Tasks‖
Posner and colleagues propose three attentional systems: alerting,
orienting and executive (Fan et al., 2002). We explored whether a
relationship exists between these attentional systems and a physical task.
We incorporated videogame exercise as our physical task. In addition, we
examined the workload associated with both the exergame and attention
task. Eighty participants were asked to perform the Wii Sports canoe
game. Participants completed three canoe races. Participants were given
a 15 minute Attentional Network Task (ANT) involving the use of flankers
(Fan et al., 2002). Following both tasks, participants completed the
NASA-TLX workload scale. Stepwise regressions revealed no relationship
between racing distance and the three systems of attention (p > .05).
However, workload subscales derived from the attention task predicted
racing distance, F (2,75) = 7.416, p < .05. Participants reporting higher
temporal demand during the ANT traveled a greater distance during the
Wii task. Participants reporting higher workload performance scores
following the ANT—with higher values indicating perceived poorer
performance—traveled a greater overall distance during the Wii task.
Workload scores for the Wii task predicted ANT performance. We
observed a significant overall model for alerting, F (2,75) = 9.097, p < .05.
Participants with higher perceived mental workload during the Wii task had
better alerting functioning during the ANT. The performance subscale was
inversely related to alerting. We observed a significant overall model for
executive control F (1,76) = 5.789, p < .05. Participants exerting greater
Effort on the Wii task had poorer executive functioning scores. (Advisor:
Dr. Cynthia Laurie-Rose)
David H. Kruk, ―College Football and Superstition‖
The central purpose of this research project is to examine the
predictiveness of individuals‘ level of trait superstition toward and selfidentity with a particular college football team. Consistent with motivation
toward a particular behavior, trait superstition is treated as a form of
internal motivation while self-identity is treated as form external
superstition. The four dependent variables include: (a) amount spent on
merchandise, (b) volume of merchandise purchased, (c) number of games
attended, and (d) number of games consumed through media (e.g.,
television, radio, and internet). Prior research into trait superstition has not
examined these dependent variables. Further the role of self-identity has
not been considered in conjunction with trait superstition. Surveys were
collected from Ohio State University, Ohio Dominican, and Otterbein using
an intercept method prior to a home football game. The data was analyzed
using exploratory factor analysis, correlation logit regression, and OLS
regression. Trait superstition is a predictor of three of the four dependent
variables, self-identity is a predictor of all four dependent variables, and
the two dummy variables coded for school identity were predictors of two.
Athletics administrators have insight into developing a brand community
around football program. Retail managers could better manage
merchandise levels. (Advisor: Dr. Michael A. Levin)
Carleen Maur, ―Harrell Fletcher Documentary‖
The documentary style of videography is something I find beautiful as an
art form and as a way to spread information and ideas. My Harrell Fletcher
project was inspired by Harrell‘s visit to Otterbein as a visiting artist
through the Pack Scholar program. Harrell Fletcher is an artist that
practices a new form of community based art. I was excited by these new
ideas and felt that through a documentary about him, I would learn
about him and his community based projects. At the same time I wanted
to have a record of his five week stay at Otterbein, and particularly of his
work with students and faculty in the art department. The video I created
consists of three sections, ―Work‖, ―Classroom‖ and ―Visiting My Farm‖.
Harrell is then showed as a dedicated professional, a creative innovative
thinker, and ultimately a fun and adventurous person. (Advisor: Professor
Louise Captein)
Justin McAtee and Chris Thayer, ―Aegis, Otterbein University‘s Humanities
Journal‖
Aegis is Otterbein‘s Humanities Journal, showcasing undergraduate
research in the humanities. The annual issue features interviews with
visiting speakers, scholarly book reviews, and a wide variety of peerreviewed essays, including topics on literature, philosophy, art history, and
music. Published each spring, Aegis is a great opportunity for humanities
students to see their work in print. (Advisor: Dr. Karen Steigman)
Zach Niday, ―Homology Modeling of Perilipin 5‖
The perilipin family of lipid droplet proteins consists of five members. The
most recently discovered protein, perilipin 5, also referred to as OXPAT, is
primarily found in oxidative tissue and is believed to participate in lipid
storage and trafficking within cells. While the protein structures of other
proteins in the family, such as TIP47, have been examined, the structure
of OXPAT is still unknown; as such, the goal of this project is to obtain
data that will help determine its structure. A 200 amino acid segment of
the carboxy-terminus, stretching from residues 206-409, was analyzed
using a series of threading programs: SWISS-MODEL, M4T model, mod
web, and I-TASSER. Predicted structures are indicative of OXPAT being
approximately 80% α-helical for the analyzed segment. Associated
QMEAN4 scores ranged from 0.50-0.83, indicating the homological
models are reliable predictions. Ongoing experiments include crosslinking
and protease protection assays to confirm the predicted structure. Recent
findings indicate that the interaction of OXPAT with the lipase ATGL and
its co-lipase CGI-58 occurs in the carboxy-terminus of OXPAT, which
substantiates the need for further structural characterization. (Advisor: Dr.
John Tansey)
Colin R. Taylor, ―Computational explorations of monocyclic oxygenates with
implications for lignocellulosic biofuel chemistry‖
Computational studies were performed on small monocyclic compounds
similar to those that make up the structures of lignocellulosic biofuels
(fuels that are derived from the inedible parts of plants). Bond
dissociation enthalpies (BDEs) of these small compounds were calculated
as a first step towards understanding the larger systems of interest in
second-generation biofuels. Second-generation biofuels do not detract
from the food chain as first-generation biofuels do, due to their derivation
from the inedible portions of plants such as stalks and stems. They thus
constitute appealing alternative fuels. While these fuels are large,
complicated systems, they consist of several small, repeating units
(monocyclic oxygenates) that can be examined efficiently using
computational chemistry methods. The ChemBio3D software package
(CambridgeSoft) was used to construct initial geometries of each of
several monocyclic model compounds (cyclohexanone, cyclopentanone,
tetrahydrofuran, tetrahydropyran, and their methyl-substituted derivatives)
and the resulting radicals possible from hydrogen atom loss. Gaussian09
calculations (G3MP2B3 optimizations and frequency analyses) of all
species were subsequently run via the Ohio Supercomputer Center.
BDEs for hydrogen atom loss were thus calculated for all positions in the
model compounds. Several trends in BDE have been observed with
respect to radical stability and functional group effects, providing a first
step towards understanding the reactivity of the monocyclic oxygenates.
Future work will explore the chemistry of aromatic monocycles (phenol,
guaiacol) that are also found in the larger lignocellulosic systems.
(Advisor: Dr. Carrigan J. Hayes)
Denton Warburton, ―Analysis of Targets of Cyclic di-GMP Signaling using Real
Time PCR‖
Streptomyces is a Gram-positive bacterium that shares many
characteristics to that of filamentous fungi. Both fungi and Streptomyces
grow as branching filaments called hyphae that form a mycelium, which is
useful in the dispersion of spores that form on reproductive structures
called aerial hyphae. The vastness and the diversity of the secondary
metabolism of Streptomyces, has made this particular bacteria, very
valuable in the formation of pharmaceuticals, such as antibiotics and other
bioactive molecules. Our laboratory has recently identified two genes that
regulate the formation of aerial mycelium and other processes in
Streptomyces. These genes of interest are rmdA and rmdB, which are
classified as cyclic di-GMP phosphodiesterases. The expression of these
genes of interest are being studied, for a gene called ramR , and the ramC
gene. Since the inactivation of rmdA and rmdB abolishes aerial mycelium
formation, the ram genes which are directly required for aerial mycelium
formation are potential targets of cyclic di-GMP signaling, controlled by the
genes rmdA and rmdB. RNA was isolated and determined to be of high
quality and an appropriate quantity. A reverse transcription reaction was
conducted to produce cDNA, which was used to test the primers that were
designed, specifically for ramR and ramC. In preliminary examinations
with PCR, expression has been shown in rmdA and rmdB mutants and in
the double mutant. Finally, a process called Real-Time PCR will be used
to precisely quantify the RNA in these strains. (Advisor: Dr. Jennifer
Bennett)
Lindsay Wargelin, ―Postmetamorphic Metabolic Rates of Red-Eyed Tree Frogs‖
Resource availability strongly affects growth and development in red-eyed
tree frogs and this carries over post-metamorphosis. Small froglets from
low resource larval environments grow faster than large froglets from high
resource environments. This pattern may be explained by differences in
intake and metabolic rate. Intake levels are the same in small and large
froglets. If metabolic rate scales with body size as expected, then smaller
froglets can allocate proportionately more energy to growth. Additionally,
some animals respond to food restriction by depressing metabolism.
Metabolic depression of small froglets could also contribute to their growth
advantage. We determined how larval resource levels impact froglet
metabolic rate post-metamorphosis. We reared larvae at three densities
with 5, 15 or 45 individuals per tank. Per capita food level varied among
densities. Larvae were photographed during development to assess
growth rates. Upon completion of metamorphosis, metabolic rates were
assessed by measuring oxygen consumption using a Microx TX2 oxygen
sensor from PreSens Precision Sensing. Froglets from the low density
environments emerged up to two weeks sooner and weighed three times
more than those from the high density environment. Metabolic rates were
measured in froglets ranging in size from 0.33 g to 0.99 g. Metabolic rate
scaled with body mass with an allometric slope of 0.97. This is not
significantly different from that of other anurans, so high density froglets
are not metabolically depressed. However, it does mean that small
froglets are able to allocate proportionately more energy towards growth
than large froglets are able to. (Advisor: Dr. Sarah Bouchard)
Brooke Weisenburger, ―Microarrays Analysis of Signaling Protein Targts in a
Pharmacologically Important Bacterium‖
Streptomyces is a bacterium of great importance and abundance, the
source for over two-thirds of commercial antibiotics. I am working with
Streptomyces coelicolor, more specifically looking into the production of
cyclic di-GMP, which is a second messenger that regulates the signals
that control aerial growth, sporulation, and other developmental
processes. I am using DNA microarrays to analyze the interactions of
certain genes, rmdA and rmdB, with the entire genome. This could
potentially find new genes that are controlled by cyclic di–GMP. Some of
the major targets already suspected are protein groups known as
chaplins. This experiment should confirm the role of the chaplins, as well
as reveal the role of other genes that are targets of cyclic di-GMP
regulation. So far I have extracted RNA from strains of Streptomyces
coelicolor, then confirmed that the RNA is of high enough quality to
continue. Next I am confirming the quantity of RNA in my prepared
samples, then performing reverse transcription to obtain cDNA from the
RNA, and incorporating fluorescent dyes in the process. After that I will be
able to apply the two differently labeled cDNA samples from two different
strains of S. coelicolor to the microarrays, and go through the hybridization
process. At that point I will be able to analyze my results to identify
differences in expression between strains. I expect the microarrays to
confirm major targets already suspected, and reveal new genes under the
control of cyclic – di-GMP, which could then be further investigated.
(Advisor: Dr. Jennifer Bennett)
Sheronda Whitner, ―Health Expo 2012 for the Commission on Minority Health‖
The purpose of this project was to plan minority health Expo 2012. The
expo 2012 is the official kick off to minority health month. The first
Minority Health Month in April 1989 was heralded with lots of enthusiasm
and a minimal amount of fanfare. The community was energized and the
Ohio Commission of Minority Health was encouraged as 81 events were
presented statewide during this 30-day wellness campaign. Minority
Health Month was designed to: promote healthy lifestyles; provide crucial
information to allow individuals to practice disease prevention; showcase
the resources for and providers of grass roots healthcare and information;
highlight the resolution of the disparate health conditions between Ohio‘s
minority and non-minority populations; and to gain additional support for
the on-going efforts to improve minority health year round. At Otterbein
University I have received many instructional classes on the health
conditions that affect different minority population. The Health Expo 2012
was developed in several steps. The Expo features internal exhibitors:
Grantees, Local offices of Minority Health and Board Members. In
addition the Expo features 20 outside exhibitors. The selection for outside
exhibitors was based on several factors (1) Screenings, (2) Connections
to the minority population, (3) Referred by board members, (4)
Participation from previous years and (5) Representation from all
Departments of Health in Ohio. The groups were contacted via e-mail and
asked to fill out an exhibitor interest form. The success of the Health Expo
will be evaluated by the board members at a meeting after the Health
Expo. (Advisor: Dr. Robert E. Braun)
Kevin L.Wininger, ―Demystifying the Mathematics of Computed Tomography‖
Background. The introduction of the computed tomography (CT) scanner,
in 1971, advanced the paradigm of medical imaging. For the first time,
physicians were able to noninvasively view organs (such as the brain),
which improved patient treatment planning (e.g., diagnostic medicine and
surgery/therapy planning). However, in 2009, isolated reports of radiation
overexposure from CT perfusion scans for serial evaluation of stroke
(resulting in temporary hair loss at the region of interest) initiated action
within the medical imaging community to better understand (and correct)
the cause of such incidences. One contributory factor was thought to be
scanning protocols that used a 120 kilovoltage peak (kVp) rather than the
recommended 80 kVp, wherein it is the latter x-ray intensity level which
offers optimal imaging. Because CT continues to play a key role in
medical imaging, analysis of the mathematical basis of CT is warranted.
Objective. To understand the mathematics of CT scanning, and ultimately
help reduce adverse radiation effects. Methods. A systematic review of the
Radon transform. Results. CT image reconstruction is due to an essential
and elegant relation between two integral transforms: the Radon transform
and the Fourier transform. Conclusion. Although application of this project
requires a computer implementation, it is an important step towards
ensuring the safety of CT scans. (Advisor: Dr. Ryan Berndt)
**
Cardinal Colloquium Programming Committee
Jennifer Bennett
Sarah Bouchard
Kate Carey
Karen Eckenroth
Joan Esson
Marla Garcia
Carrigan Hayes
Cynthia Laurie-Rose
Vicki McGillin
Sandra Sallee
Karen Steigman