Humanities
First Name
Damaris
Last Name
Alfonso
Abstract Title
RU Latina Study
Abstract
It has been proven that social and academic involvement has an impact on the development and success of students in college. The
purpose of this study is to evaluate the way that Latina first-year students get involved on campus and how it affects them. This is
examined by conducting one on one interviews and group discussions with the participants of the study. It is hypothesized that students'
social and academic involvement will benefit them in time management, as well as forming relationships and friendships with their peers.
All of their dimensions are being examined such as their decision-making, self-identity, and social skills. Previous research indicates that
students who are involved are more likely to receive better grades, feel more satisfied with their college experience, and develop valuable
leadership and interpersonal skills. There have only been a small number of participants thus far, and the hypothesis seems to be correct.
The students seem to view getting involved as almost an obligation, since it is so encouraged on campus. Some reasons they stated were
so that they can meet new people and form connections, as well as feel a sense of belonging, since the majority of them are still very
attached to their homes. Those who have already been involved in programs such as the Equal Opportunity Fund have already formed
relationships with their peers and adjusted well to college and the new workload. These results, although not yet completed, reinforce our
hypothesis.
Key Words Related to Project
Latina first-year students
Category
Humanities
Room
Time
Advisor
Advisor Email
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Damaris Alfonso is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Science majoring in Psychology and minoring in French. She holds a
leadership position on campus as secretary for the Latino Student Council.
Email Address
damaris3@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2013
Major
Humanities
First Name
Zachary J
Last Name
Arbeitel
Abstract Title
Filibustering as a Political Ideology in the 19th Century Caribbean and Philippines
Abstract
The Cuban and Filipino revolutions against Spain in the late 19th century were centered on the political ideology of separatism from their
European metropolis, coupled with nationalist projects taking place in the U.S. and Latin America. The foundation of separatist thinking
in the Caribbean and Philippines can be attributed to the more lawless and unorganized act of filibusterismo, those who were deemed as
traitors against the Spanish empire. Varying perspectives from the major colonial powers of the 19th century illustrate competing
definitions as to how filibustering was perceived, which would later strongly affect how separatism was to be portrayed in the two
revolutions. The focus of our research is the representation of political separatism through the figure of the filibustero among Cuban and
Filippino thinkers, most notably José Rizal and Cirilo Villaverde. Distinguishing between the several interpretations of filibusterismo
involved the review of English, Dutch, Spanish, and French dictionaries from the 19th century. Through the critical analysis of written
works by Rizal and Villaverde, as well as through a review of their political formulations, our research was able to acknowledge
unforeseen developments from the primeval notion of filibusterismo into a more politically organized separatist movement in these two
revolutions. Although at first glance the Caribbean and Filipino Revolutions may not seem connected, we were able to recover the
historical links between both revolutions. This discovery unearths the cultural and political connections of separatism in overseas
archipelagic colonies and their political insurgencies against the Spanish empire during the late 19th century.
Key Words Related to Project
Filibustering as a Political Ideology
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Yolanda
Room
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
yolamsm@rci.rutgers.edu
Martinez-San Mig
Advisor Address
296 Easton Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Zachary Arbeitel is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in History and Political Science.
Email Address
zarbeite@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
History and Political Science
Humanities
First Name
Gregory A
Last Name
Arutiunov
Abstract Title
Experimental Philosophy: Intuitions in Self-Defense
Abstract
For as long as philosophy has been in business, intuitions have been used as a primary source of evidence in philosophical investigation.
An emerging movement within philosophy (which has roots at Rutgers), experimental philosophy, seeks to subject philosophy to the
same methodological rigor that is typically associated with the social sciences, like psychology. That is, experimental philosophy
attempts to strip philosophers of their so-called ―armchairs‖ and subject them to gather empirical evidence for their philosophical claims.
Philosophers have long taken for granted the homogeneity of intuitions – and a growing body of evidence puts that view into significant
doubt. Our hypothesis is as follows: when the perspective that a thought experiment is presented in is changed – ceteris paribus –
intuitions on that thought experiment differ systematically. We have gathered preliminary data across a variety of ethics of self-defense
cases that suggests that this is the case. We call this the victim-perpetrator effect. The cases which we have empirical data on are
known in the literature as ―Innocent Threat‖ cases, for they ask if self-defense is permissible against someone who is an innocent threat –
that is, someone who is not morally responsible for their actions. For ethicists, this finding is troublesome, since by changing the
perspective in which a thought experiment is presented, they can evoke different intuitions.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Stephen
Room
Stich
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
sstich@ruccs.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
1 Seminary Place
Other Students Involved
Ezekiel Pariser
Presenter Biography
Greg Arutiunov is a School of Arts and Sciences sophomore majoring in Philosophy and Economics. Zeke Pariser is a School of Arts
and Sciences junior majoring in Philosophy and minoring in English.
Email Address
garut@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Philosophy and Economics
Humanities
First Name
Matthew
Last Name
Badessa
Abstract Title
The Point of Vanishing: Pater's Loss of Perspective
Abstract
According to art-historian Erwin Panofsky, the representation of perspective in art can be understood in two contradictory senses: it at
once indicates the inescapability of the depth of the real world, while testifying to the power of the perceiving self that imagines a threedimensional space on a two-dimensional surface. The works of 19th-Century aesthetic critic Walter Pater, however, offer a resistance to
both of these understandings of perspective. Through close readings of passages in Pater from The Renaissance and Plato and Platonism;
discussions of dramatic shifts of perspective in such major Victorian thinkers as John Ruskin and Thomas Carlyle; and analyses of
perspective in various works of poetry and fine art, The Point of Vanishing argues that in Pater, perspective operates in a manner related
to, but ultimately different than, the way it does in Panofsky: here, the vanishing-point gets shifted from the canvas to the perceiver
himself--a self which uncomfortably internalizes a sense of the infinite depth of the world. What emerges from this discovery is a richer
understanding of Pater‘s complex handling of perspective, and of the anxieties that arise for the critic in identifying himself with a
boundless and infinite universe.
Key Words Related to Project
Pater, Perspective, Aestheticism, Victorian Literature
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Jonah
Room
Siegel
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
jsiegel@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Murray Hall Rm. 104
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Matthew Badessa is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in English and minoring in Classics. His academic interests
include aesthetic criticism, late-Victorian poetry, and the study of Classical Latin.
Email Address
mbadessa@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
English
Humanities
First Name
Eleanor L
Last Name
Brehme
Abstract Title
Teacher Effectiveness in the Development of Student Reasoning Using Model-Based Inquiry
Abstract
Science teaching should foster the development of reasoning skills that allow students to better understand the world around them. In
order to approach unknown problems, students require methods of thinking that extend beyond the memorization of facts. However,
much evidence suggests that science is not being taught to students in a way which fosters reasoning skills and encourages inquiry
(inquiry-based learning). The PRACCIS (Promoting Reasoning and Conceptual Change in Science) project is a project that has
developed curricula and instructional methods to promote growth of reasoning in science. In an implementation of PRACCIS methods,
teachers encouraged students to learn by using evidence to construct and defend scientific models. For example, instead of telling
students the exact mechanism behind photosynthesis and asking them to memorize it for an exam, teachers gave students evidence about
plant growth and asked the students to construct with their own model of photosynthesis to account for the evidence. Many lessons
throughout a full year in which teachers taught using these methods were video recorded. According to post-test results of students‘
reasoning abilities, we identified two teachers who were more effective at promoting growth in reasoning than other teachers. The goal of
our study was to explain why these two teachers were more effective. We found that these teachers were more effective at encouraging
student argumentation, asking students to justify their claims, and helping students reflect on criteria for good scientific models.
Key Words Related to Project
Teaching, Reasoning, PRACCIS
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Clark
Room
Chinn
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
clark.chinn@gse.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
10 Seminary Place, Room 319, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Mona Saleh
Presenter Biography
Eleanor Brehme is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History and minoring in French. Mona Saleh is a
sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Biology and minoring in English.
Email Address
ebrehme@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
History
Humanities
First Name
Stephen J
Last Name
Budinsky
Abstract Title
The History of Spin
Abstract
A single word, ―spin,‖ dominates the media-savvy American Presidency that exists today. The main image that comes from current
literature is negative: spin is seen as obscuring or disguising reality with the intent of deception. But the term spin also can suggest a
playful perspective on the practice of presenting news in the service of an argument. On this view, spin is something that presidents
always do, if they intend to lead the public behind a particular agenda. The media-savvy presidency first developed at the dawn of the
twentieth century, with Theodore Roosevelt using his ―bully pulpit‖ to reveal and promote his policies through the media. As the
executive branch‘s media capabilities developed, the press‘s ways of interpreting and passing information on the American public did as
well. In order to shed new light on the development of spin through the twentieth century, research has focused on the public relations
men, pollsters, and thinkers in the field. The research will show this new side of spin as an essential component of American democracy
through depictions of several prominent figures in presidential public relations at the beginning of the twentieth century.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
David
Room
Greenberg
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
davidgr@rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Room 106 Simeon De Witt Building
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Stephen Budinsky is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History and Economics and minoring in Spanish.
Email Address
budinsky@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
History and Economics
Humanities
First Name
Chelsea K
Last Name
Callahan-Mendelsohn
Abstract Title
Photography and HIV/AIDS
Abstract
Title: Defining the face of AIDS. A group of Rutgers freshmen explore the topic as it relates to them, their community, and beyond.
Since the onset of AIDS, people have sought to define the nature of those affected. Typifying PWAs (people with AIDS) has occurred in
the media, and through art. The stigma the disease carries is overwhelming and there has been a tendency to alienate and degrade. Yet
this group of Rutgers freshman participating in a Byrne Seminar on the topic sought to explore the concept of the ―face of AIDS.‖ What
does this face look like? Does it exist? They set out to define the nature of AIDS. We channeled our exploration through the study and
practice of art. Firstly, I compiled an annotated list of artists who have worked on the topic as well as a bibliography. Through discussion
and sharing we began to see that AIDS, rather than a secret and personal problem, is a community issue; and though no one in the group
disclosed that they had AIDS, we learned that this was an issue that impacted us all. The next step was to turn away from the work of
others, works that had shaped past perceptions, and the students took questions on AIDS they had compiled and attempted to answer
them through photographs they would take. We came together, critiqued, discussed, and selected a number of works to display in an
exhibit at Johnson & Johnson‘s Art Gallery. Through community interaction and a higher level of openness and understanding the
conclusion was undoubted—there is no one ―face of AIDS‖ – no matter one‘s medical history, AIDS is a social issue that we must all
deal with.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Tanya
Room
Sheehan
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
tsheehan@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
60 College Ave
Other Students Involved
Sandy Cao
Presenter Biography
Chelsea Callahan-Mendelsohn is an SAS junior studying Art History and minoring in History.
Email Address
chelseac@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Art History
Humanities
First Name
Marion A
Last Name
Clement
Abstract Title
Mumbai Shantytown Project
Abstract
Our research combines an emerging social question: whether public interactive mapping is specific enough to use in academic research,
with a geographic inquiry of slum locations in Mumbai, India. Today the public has access to a number of resources that shrink the world
to a computer screen. But how much is really displayed in these satellite images? Can one extract a valid hypothesis from these
revolutionary yet inevitably generalized tools? We attempt to count slum numbers, building areas, and so on using these interactive
mapping sites to compare them to the Mumbai Human Development Report of 2009. We strive to find a pattern of percentage error in
this comparison that will allow us to perceive to what extent these maps are valuable to research. We are using a variety of websites, such
as Wikimapia, Google Earth, and Google Planimeter, to explore their various tool resources in order to draw our statistical results.
Photographs posted on Wikimapia paranomic view and Google Earth are also objects of our inquiry, as we explore which images are
most valued. These statistics and observations on coverage of areas point to the bias nearly always found in the regional mapping. We
hope to gather enough evidence to conclude how specific usages of these modern tools are effective or not in representing various aspects
of the human world.
Key Words Related to Project
Geography, slums, Mumbai, Mapping, Citizen Science
Category
Humanities
Advisor
James
Room
Mitchell
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
jmitchel@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Livingston B Wing, Livingston Campus, Piscataway NJ
Other Students Involved
Kae Yamane
Presenter Biography
Marion Clement is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Geography and in French Cultural Studies. She is interested in
the broad reach that Geography can have in both social and physical sciences. Kae Yamane is a Sophomore in the School of Arts and
Sciences majoring in Geography. She is currently very engaged by cartography and its utilities.
Email Address
mariclem@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Geography, French
Humanities
First Name
Daniel
B
Last Name
Comito
Abstract Title
On the Banks of the Old Raritan
Abstract
The purpose of this project is to complete an account of the history of the Rutgers University alma mater and the changes it has
undergone since its penning in 1873. The focus of the paper is on the allegedly sexist lyrics and how they affect they affect Rutgers
University and the University community. The alma mater has undergone two major revisions since it was originally written and is
currently facing a University Senate prompted change. Rutgers is not the first University to face this issue and this paper will take into
consideration the changes that occurred at other Universities and the effects that they had. This research will show, based on the
combination of factors from the history of Rutgers and the history of alma maters at other schools, whether or not a change is in fact
necessary. Additionally, should a change be required, it will provide proper paradigms for a successful change or alteration that will not
have a negative effect on Rutgers University.
Key Words Related to Project
alma mater, gender, history, Rutgers
Category
Humanities
Advisor
James
Room
201B
Reed
Time
10- 11 a.m.
Panel Name
National Identity and Ownership of the Past
Advisor Email
reed@history.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Daniel Comito is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring in Music.
Email Address
dcomito@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Humanities
First Name
Patricia E
Last Name
Correa
Abstract Title
Negotiating Gitana Stereotypes in Contemporary Peninsular Literature and Film
Abstract
Up to the ninetieth century, the gitana literary image in Spain had been stereotyped with pejorative innuendoes of immorality and
exoticism. But with the beginning of the twentieth century, social changes in the Spanish structure of patriarchy, the global feminist
movement, the Francisco Franco dictatorship and the treatment of women in marginalized societies allowed for a change in the stereotype
of the gitana. The new image, which the study refers to as anti-stereotypes, emerge as a manifestation of the strife gitanas undertake when
their erotized image and restrictive gypsy code clash with their subversive and individualistic tendencies. Furthermore, the antistereotypes demonstrate a gradual change as Spain moves from the social restrictiveness of the Franco years to the advances towards
feminine equality of the contemporary society. The purpose of the work is to present the treatment of contemporary gitana stereotypes,
while bringing forth feminist discourse. To justify how the anti-stereotypes are presenting themselves, samples of film and literature were
reviewed under the multicultural theoretical model with a secondary focus on anthropological studies. To further analyze this
development, the postcolonial theory was employed to examine the gitana‘s identity changes and subverting behavior. As a result, it was
found that the anti-stereotypes demonstrate how the gitana, and the rest of the Spanish society, are negotiating her new found identity as
an individual fighting to liberate herself from racial restrains. This new data allows an understanding of the role of the gitanas in the
contemporary literature and film of Spain.
Key Words Related to Project
gypsy, contemporary Spain, post colonial theory, women studies, stereotypes
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Yeon-Soo
Room
202B
Time
10 - 11 a.m.
Panel Name
Human Rights and Sterotypes
Advisor Email
ykim@spanport.rutgers.edu
Kim
Advisor Address
105 George Street. New Brunswick, NJ 07029
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Patricia Correa is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Spanish Literature and minoring in Art History. She is a native
of Peru. Her research interests include Peninsular Literature, Post Colonial Theory, Women Studies and Contemporary Spanish Film.
Patricia‘s involvement in the University include her position as a Peer Academic Leader at Douglass Residential Campus and as a
committee member in several other organizations.
Email Address
trishc@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Spanish, Literary and Cultural Studies
Humanities
First Name
Matthew P
Last Name
Cortland
Abstract Title
Constructing Culture Through Language and Social Interaction: An Ethnographic Study of an All-Male Drum and Bugle Corps
Abstract
This paper is a detailed ethnographic and conversation analytic study of an all-male Drum and Bugle Corps in the Midwestern United
States, (*―the Midwestern Scouts‖). The study examines how the culture of this institution is constructed through social interaction in a
wide range of community activities -- eating, sleeping, hygiene, bus travel, storytelling, band practice, etc. The information for this study
was gathered during three months of fieldwork as a participant observer and cultural insider. The paper is divided into sections according
to the structure of this culture. First, however, an explanation of the activity of drum and bugle corps and more specifically, of the
Midwestern Scouts, provides a context for this study. Drum and bugle corps is a professional marching band that operates under pseudomilitary conditions. This corps and others like it compete in local and national competitions across the United States during a twelveweek period each summer, and have significant impact on the lives of the young men involved. Our analysis, done through ethnography
and conversation analysis, shows that the drum corps is shaped through communicative actions, and specifies the social interactional
practices through which it is constituted. The culture is regulated in a way that reinforces the hierarchy of the larger drum corps and
constructs and preserves a set of social norms that promote amicable, non-antagonistic communal life. In this paper we outline many of
the communicative practices and how they fit in with the larger culture of the Midwestern Scouts.
Key Words Related to Project
Ethnography, Language, Social Interaction, Communication
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Jenny
Room
202C
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Culture and Trends
Advisor Email
j.mandelbaum@rutgers.edu
Mandelbaum
Advisor Address
4 Huntington Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Matthew Cortland is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program. He is majoring in Ethnographic Communication,
which is an Individualized major option in SAS, and Art History while minoring in Italian Studies and receiving a Certificate in Historic
Preservation. His thesis paper was just accepted to the International Communication Association's conference in Boston, MA where he
will present in the Language and Social Interaction category.
Email Address
mattcort@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Individualized, Art History
Humanities
First Name
Tiffany
Last Name
Decker
Abstract Title
Term Bill Study
Abstract
When students get term bills they are bombarded with numbers and fees: campus fee, computer fee, and school fee. Backed by
Kahneman and Tversky's, prospect theory, we feel that students would be happier if they received one aggregated tuition total. Prospect
Theory argues that as a person‘s loss increases, the determent they feel per loss decreases. Accordingly, we believe that when a person
sees his term bill in segregated amounts, he hits the prospect theory graph at the steepest point for every cost. However, when a person
sees their total cost they hit the graph once where the line has flattened out. With this in mind, we created a survey with three conditions:
aggregated tuition cost, segregated cost with a total, and segregated cost without a total, and asked participants to rank how fair the cost
was, their satisfaction, and their responsibility for their tuition. We surveyed 149 college students at bus stops with roughly 50
participants per condition. We found that when people see their tuition aggregated versus segregated they find the information equally
fair and are equally satisfied, Fs(2, 142)<1.3, ps>0.2. Even combining the two segregated conditions did not produce significant results.
This can be due our low subject pool, students‘ lack of knowledge of their tuition, or students‘ disconnection to tuition due to loans or
their parents paying. We believed that if people are more satisfied with one aggregate tuition cost then they would be more likely to
purchase textbooks if their cost were included into tuition.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Gretchen
Room
Chapman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
gbc@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Tiffany Decker is currently a sophomore at the School of Arts and Science Honors majoring in Business and minoring in Psychology.
Once she graduates college she plans to further her education by getting a MBA as well as a law degree. Tiffany also believes having a
psychology minor will help her in her career as a lawyer.
Email Address
tiffdeck@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS Honors
Class Year
2013
Major
Business
Humanities
First Name
Peter
J
Last Name
Fabian
Abstract Title
Aspects of Cuzco Quechua Phonology
Abstract
This study aims to update the phonological profile of Cuzco Quechua (CQ) and analyze several segmental processes. Field research took
place during six weeks in the summer of 2010 in Cuzco, Peru. Two native speakers were interviewed by the author and their speech was
recorded, transcribed, and analyzed in an effort to isolate phonological patterns. The most significant patterns analyzed are1.Syllable
coda stop limitations and 2.Positional neutralization of laryngeal and aspirated consonants As Parker (1997) points out, CQ features a
three way contrastive stop distinction (plain, aspirated, and ejective) across its inventory. However, despite this complexity, certain
limitations exist in the coda position which Parker and others fail to identify. This study contradicts the traditional claims that /p t k tʃ q/
can surface and reanalyzes CQ as only permitting /k/. This dialogues with deLacy (2006) to reevaluate claims about the markedness of
labials and palatals in comparison to velars. This study evaluates the finding that stops are not viewed equally in terms of faithfulness
constraints. Plain segments have higher rankings than other variants. Aspirates appear to be neutralized into plain or ejective forms. This
study analyzes this trend based on a Positional Faithfulness framework from Beckman (1998). The implications of this study are great
for the field of phonology because it challenges claims about faithfulness and markedness constraints in Optimality Theory. Also,
examples from CQ are added to the discussion already formulated by Parker (1997) to create contrasting OT analyses of CQ which
promises to fuel further linguistic study.
Key Words Related to Project
quechua, peru, linguistics, phonology
Category
Humanities
Room
201A
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Aspects of Language on Society
Advisor
& Liliana Sanc Akinbiyi Akinlabi
Advisor Email
akinlabi@rci.rutgers.edu, lsanchez@rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
SAS Linguistics 18 Seminary Place, SAS Spanish and Portuguese 85 George St
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Peter Fabian is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program Double-Majoring in Linguistics and Spanish. He plans to
pursue a Ph.D. in Linguistics after graduation and aspires to teach at an institution of higher learning in the future.
Email Address
pfabian@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS Honors Program
Class Year
2011
Major
Linguistics and Spanish (Double Major)
Humanities
First Name
Lauren F
Last Name
Formica
Abstract Title
Una Bella Vita: A Memoir
Abstract
I am doing a creative thesis. I have read many memoirs and I never found a memoir that was written by somebody in my generation. It
tends to be older generations trying to find out what it is like to be in my shoes: a girl today. I wanted to write that story for my
generation of females; something that each girl could relate to. After attending Rutgers University, I thought that each year I was learning
more about myself, uncovering a new layer of myself. It was not until I decided to study abroad in Florence Italy that I realized there is
more to this world than just Rutgers University or New Jersey. To go ahead into my future, I had to turn to my past, uncover my family's
heritage, my Italian-American background. While there was a great deal I learned about myself while abroad, I also uncovered many
questions about life and what I plan to get out of it. Will I work to live, making my career the primary focus of my life, or will I live to
work and enjoy everyday experiences? This is the story of an Italian-American, second generation female, born and raised in New Jersey
dealing the challenges aspects of being a girl in today's modern world. The simple things from: do I text him first? To the more
complicated issues like dating a Jewish man and considering converting despite my strong Catholic background. The true story: what it's
like to become a woman today.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Jennifer
Room
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
Jones
Advisor Address
Van Dyke Hall, College Avenue Campus, New Brunswick
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Lauren Formica is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in Political Science and History and minoring in Italian
Studies. She enjoys traveling to new places and learning new languages. Lauren also enjoys cooking Italian-Tuscan food. She learned
from her grandmother, mother, and from the friends she made in Tuscany while living abroad. In Lauren's free time, she enjoys sitting on
the beach with her family and a good book.
Email Address
lformica@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
History and Political Science
Humanities
First Name
Judith
E
Last Name
Garber
Abstract Title
Brace Yourself: Medical and Cultural Trends in American Orthodontics
Abstract
In the beginning of the twentieth century, it would be a rare event to see someone wearing braces in any country. By the 1970s, however,
people in the United States viewed braces as a commonplace procedure for improving one‘s health and appearance. Analyzing the
reasons why Americans seek orthodontic treatment sheds light on how braces have become normative in American society. Several
factors historically have influenced Americans‘ decision to get braces: 1) the professionalization of orthodontics and medicalization of
malocclusion, 2) the use of orthodontics as an instrument of socioeconomic and racial classification, and 3) the increasing importance of
self-improvement in American culture. As orthodontists gained authority as medical professionals in the early twentieth century, they
increasingly propagated the notion that all forms of malocclusion necessarily had to be treated by means of a medical procedure. The use
of orthodontics to straighten teeth was also a method by which middle-class white Americans distinguished themselves from lower-class
immigrants and African Americans; the ―perfect smile‖ became and remains a badge of social status. Americans‘ growing preoccupation
with self-improvement and with cosmetic fashioning of the self has encouraged physical changes like orthodontic treatment that offer
hope of improving their lives.
Key Words Related to Project
Orthodontics, American Studies, Braces
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Leslie
Room
202C
Fishbein
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Culture and Trends
Advisor Email
fishbei@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Ruth Adams Building 024C
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Judith Garber is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Americans Studies and Political Science and Minoring in
Economics.
Email Address
School Name
JEGARBER@EDEN.RUTGERS.E SAS
Paper
Class Year
2011
Major
American Studies, Political Science
Humanities
First Name
Victoria
Last Name
Gilbert
Abstract Title
The Delaware Power Plant Potential: The Redevelopment Possibilities of Vacant Industrial Structures Along Urban Waterfronts
Abstract
The Delaware Power Plant sits along the banks of the Delaware River in Philadelphia, PA. Built in 1920, the now vacant industrial
structure no longer produces electricity. The DPP has been the subject of numerous professional and community-based proposals for
redevelopment and reuse but, as yet, has failed to attain a new use. However, the successful redevelopment of similar structures in
comparable environments suggests that the DPP can and should be converted into an accessible and utilized space. The collection of
historical process examples of comparable planning and development processes in other urban post-industrial locations provides a basis
for analysis. Case studies of similar structures and their redevelopment processes provide insights into potential plans for the DPP, and
analysis of non-traditional rogue efforts demonstrate applicable alternative planning techniques. I found that the Delaware Power Plant
does exhibit potential for quality and successful redevelopment, but that a new plan utilizing a combination of traditional and rogue
redevelopment and planning efforts must be created. The failure of the past redevelopment attempts of the DPP were due to unorganized
and inconsistent attempts, and the unique planning process I propose for the Plant will achieve success because of its identification of
artistic and traditional reuses for the structure. This suggests that the study of previously redevelopment spaces provides insight into
effective future redevelopment, and that vacant industrial spaces can be repurposed.
Key Words Related to Project
planning development decline industrial ruins
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Frank
Room
Popper
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
popper@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Victoria Gilbert is a senior in the Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy and the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program.
She is a Voorhees Fellow and committed to research developing innovative urban redevelopment techniques. Victoria is the 2011 New
Jersey State Society Cherry Blossom Princess.
Email Address
vgilbert@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Humanities
First Name
Carrie
S
Last Name
Gordon
Abstract Title
The Quest of Modernity: Examining Manet's La Ninfa Sorprendida and Its Acquisition by the Argentine Republic
Abstract
Recognized scholars on Edouard Manet tend to regard the 1861 oil painting entitled La Ninfa Sorprendida as a footnote in his artistic
development, which is punctuated by his more iconic creations like Le Déjeuner sur l‘herbe and Olympia. In an attempt to re-define its
significance within the artist‘s early career, I have uncovered the factors that motivated its acquisition by the Argentine National
Commission of Fine Arts in 1914, which resulted in its subsequent donation to the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (hereafter MNBA), in
the capital city of Buenos Aires. This composition has two ―lives‖: as a pivotal nude whose visual elements suggest a style that
contributed to Manet‘s designation as the ―Father of Modernism‖; and as a symbol of modernity in Argentina at the turn of the 20th
Century. Through La Ninfa Sorprendida‘s installation in MNBA, attention can further be drawn to the prolific examples of Frenchdesigned and inspired architecture and sculpture, completed in the last decades of the 19th Century. Concerted efforts made to examine
the provenance of La Ninfa Sorprendida included original archival research, translations of works in Spanish, and interviews with
respected Argentine art historians and curatorial staff. This analysis seeks to elucidate the connection between the quest of modernity,
and the significance of this acquisition. In so doing, my conclusions indicate the need for a more comprehensive understanding of
Manet‘s early career, with greater consideration for the relevance of La Ninfa Sorprendida within that development, and within the
context of modernism.
Key Words Related to Project
modernity, Edouard Manet, Argentina, France
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Susan
Room
202C
Sidlauskas
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
Art and Biography
Advisor Email
sidlausk@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
71 Hamilton Street
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Carrie Gordon (known as "Cathrin") is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Art History and minoring in History. Her
minor emphasis has led her to examine post-colonial development in Argentina, and the diaspora experience in the Caribbean and
Argentina. Additionally, her studies have taken her to Paris and Argentina. Her post-graduation plans include a graduate program that
focuses on the art of Latin America, and continued travel abroad.
Email Address
carrgord@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Art History
Humanities
First Name
Tal
Last Name
Grebel
Abstract Title
Religion and the Enlightenment: Mme de Tencin, the Politically Puissant "Ex-Nun" and Rahel Varnhagen, the Savagely Witty "Ex-Jew"
Abstract
One wouldn‘t expect a woman who spent years trying to escape the life of a Catholic nun to ultimately end up living in close proximity to
a convent. Yet that is precisely what the Frenchwoman Claudine-Alexandrine Guerin de Tencin did in 1718. The site of her first official
salon, a gathering place of intellectuals epitomizing Enlightenment trends of reason and thought, was across the street from a convent.
Following the same line of thinking, one would assume that a woman who cried out so against the societal subjugation of 19th century
European Jewry would convert to Christianity at the first opportunity. And yet, the German Jew, Rahel Varnhagen née Levin, did not
convert to Protestantism until the late age of 43. Ironically, even though both women were Enlightenment reformers, modern thinkers of
a progressive, revolutionary time period, they still both maintained traditional, religiously-associated conduct. This thesis aims not to
narrate their lives, but rather investigate the paradoxes they supply. Why would two women so strongly associated with the
Enlightenment, a period that gave us secularization, and sparked our notion of progress and modernity, reflect such ‗antiquated‘
connection to the religious? Following that line of thinking, what role did religion play during the Enlightenment? Did it play a role at
all? As key members of societies that have now forgotten their merits, unearthing their personal stories and the role that religion played
in their lives is key to understanding a period of time that has long been generalized as ―secular.‖
Key Words Related to Project
Enlightenment; Salon Culture; Religion
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Phyllis
Room
201B
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Religion and Politics
Advisor Email
pmack@rci.rutgers.edu
Mack
Advisor Address
Room 224, Van Dyck Hall, College Avenue Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Tal Grebel is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences double-majoring in History and French, and minoring in Jewish Studies. She is
grateful to everyone who advised her on this prodigious enterprise, her senior Honors thesis. In particular, she would like to highlight the
support of Professor Phyllis Mack, without whom this thesis would not have been possible.
Email Address
tal.grebel@gmail.com
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
History; French (double major)
Humanities
First Name
Qi
Last Name
Guo
Abstract Title
Translation of "Tang Shi Yu Yan Yan Jiu": A Study of Tang Poetic Language by Jiang Shaoyu
Abstract
Throughout the Chinese history, Tang Dynasty is commonly recognized as the golden age of poetry. Because of the prevalence of rhymes
and parallel structures within Tang Poetry, studying Tang poetic language has become inevitably valuable in linguistics studies and in the
study of the development of Modern Chinese. The research is designed to analyze and translate a book named "Tang shi yu yan yan jiu"
by Jiang Shaoyu. This project is part of Professor Richard Simmons‘ ongoing effort to gather and study published data of Chinese verse
in the study of Chinese language history and the influences of classical literature on language competence and knowledge. The
responsibilities of the research assistant include looking up bibliographical materials in libraries and translating poetic language into
English. However, the translatability limitation of Tang Poetry has always been brought up and in need of solutions. "Quantangshi," the
major source and the most important collection of Tang Dynasty poems, is utilized to trace all relevant references in Jiang‘s work. Also,
with comparative studies on a wide variety of appreciation articles of others‘ translation work, researchers attain the principles and
criteria of translating classical Chinese poetry, and therefore, enhance the accuracy and reliability. As long as the translators are
responsible for the author of the original work and readers alike, this in-depth translation work about the history, structure, poetic genre
styles of Tang poetry will be used as a reference book for the further studies of classical Chinese poetry.
Key Words Related to Project
Tang Dynasty Poetry; Translation; Reference; Principles and Criteria
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Richard
Room
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
Simmons
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Qi(Cathy) Guo is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring communication and economics. She is also a bilingual
student in English and Mandarin Chinese.
Email Address
guoqi@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Communication&Economics
Humanities
First Name
Rubab
S
Last Name
Hassan
Abstract Title
Allies and Enemies: US Foreign Policy, Political Islam, and Media Representations
Abstract
Common perceptions of the Islamic faith and culture in the United States carry negative connotations that shape the general
understanding of the Middle East. Saudi Arabia has often been identified as the focal point of this constructed paradigm between Islam
and politics. From our research we sought to determine the roots of Islamaphobia in the American media. In order to systematically and
objectively analyze the influence of the media we performed a quantitative analysis, applying a filter method to the NY Times articles by
using the CATPAC analysis program. We hope to further this research by applying a qualitative analysis of these results which will
provide us with an unbiased understanding of the relationship between language in the media and the stereotypes of Muslims present in
the United States today. Thus, compilation of the data provided a means to assess and determine relevant material to our research.
Key Words Related to Project
Islam, Foreign Policy, Media, Representations
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Deepa
Room
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
dekumar@rutgers.edu
Kumar
Advisor Address
4 Huntington Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Nancy Musinguzi, Nicola Mammes
Presenter Biography
Nicola Mammes is Junior at Rutgers University double majoring in Political Science through the School of Arts and Sciences and
Planning and Public Policy through the Edward J. Bloustein School. She has always been interested in Middle East Politics, and this
project gave her an opportunity to study the subject matter more in depth. Through this project, she has also developed a better
understanding of the media and its role in politics, which is not always a good thing. Nancy Musinguzi is a sophomore in the School of
Arts and Sciences, majoring in Cultural Anthropology and minoring in African Studies and Political Science. Rubab Hassan is a
sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program, majoring in Middle Eastern Studies/English and minoring in Economics.
She is also a member of Oxfam Rutgers, and interested in human rights as well as politics, specifically in the Middle East.
Email Address
rubabh@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Douglass
Class Year
2013
Major
Middle Eastern/English
Humanities
First Name
Rachel
C
Last Name
Hodes
Abstract Title
Engaging the Disengaged, Connecting the Disconnected, and Embracing the Neglected Jewish Student on Campus
Abstract
Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life is an international organization, with member chapters on college campuses throughout
the country. At campus Hillel houses, hired professionals and student leaders use the concept of student engagement as a tactic to get
more students involved in the larger Jewish community, with certain campus Hillels regarded as the ―best.‖ Using a multiple case study
strategy, I researched and interviewed professionals at 8 different schools and attended the General Assembly conference in order to
ascertain the most successful engagement tools, tactics, and practices. After completing interviews and attending the General Assembly
conference, I analyzed the data to determine the similarities among these successful Hillels. Ultimately, the most successful engagement
efforts are the result of a clear strategy, designed and implemented by dynamic, charismatic, and trained staff. These 8 Hillels all
empower student leaders and offer innovative internships in an effort to have student leadership over the engagement process. To perform
successful student engagement, a Hillel must invest in its staff's education and training, develop a clear and coherent, multi-level,
integrated engagement strategy, utilize the inherent skills and power of student leaders within the community, and continually adapt and
transform to the ever evolving needs of the Jewish college student population.
Key Words Related to Project
Jewish college students
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Maurice
Room
202A
Time
10- 11 a.m.
Panel Name
Ethnicity and Identity
Advisor Email
rutgersmje@aol.com
Elias
Advisor Address
53 Avenue E, Rm 431 Piscataway, NJ 08854-8040
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Rachel Hodes is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Political Science and minoring in History and Environmental
Policy.
Email Address
rachelhodes@gmail.com
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Political Science
Humanities
First Name
Christina N
Last Name
Hunt
Abstract Title
Use of Adverbs Among English-Spanish Bilingual Heritage Speakers
Abstract
In English syntax, adverbs can be found either immediately before a verb or immediately after an object, whereas in Spanish, placement
depends on the particular adverb used, as there are three adverb classes with different placements. English-Spanish bilingual heritage
speakers (those who speak Spanish at home, but are formally educated in English) are exposed to both grammatical settings, so in this
study we will explore what the preferred word order for them is in Spanish. If transfer occurs among heritage speakers, Spanish adverb
placement should resemble that of English; it transfer doesn‘t occur, the speaker‘s Spanish should not be affected. This study employs
questionnaires that require Spanish and heritage speakers (the control and test groups, respectively) to make judgments about the
grammaticality of sentences containing adverbs. Participants will be asked to judge examples with adverbs in different positions, on a
scale of -7 to 7 ranging from ―totally acceptable‖ to ―totally unacceptable‖. Results are expected to show that transfer does occur and
heritage speakers do indeed demonstrate English adverb placement in Spanish. This study gives insight into the nature of language
(specifically, about environment and that frequent use of a phenomenon in one situation or language manifests itself in other contexts)
and how the brain processes and combines languages. Since this shows something about the environment in which a language is learned
and used, it can help us figure out ways to teach language better, as well as understand why people are inconsistent in production.
Key Words Related to Project
Spanish English Adverbs
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Jose
Room
Camacho
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
jcamacho@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Carpender House 303 105 George Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1414
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Christina Hunt is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program. She is majoring in Spanish Translation and doubleminoring in Italian and Linguistics. Christina loves to sing, which she does with Voorhees Choir here at Rutgers. She also loves
literature and baking. One of her aspirations is to travel around the world, which venture she'll begin by going to Spain for the spring
semester of 2012.
Email Address
cnhunt@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
Spanish (translation)
Humanities
First Name
Kathleen
Last Name
Irwin
Abstract Title
Inviting Picasso into the Laboratory: Form and the Exchange of Ideas at Three Modern Laboratories
Abstract
The belief that laboratories should be designed with the goal of bringing scientists from different departments together to exchange ideas
is widespread. However, attempts at encouraging communication sometimes come at a cost to the daily work of science and occasionally
end up taking away from other vital building functions such as privacy and navigability. This thesis dispels the myth of the scientist as
an isolated genius through the study of laboratory architecture, focusing on Louis Kahn‘s Salk Institute in La Jolla, California, Eero
Saarinen‘s Bell Labs in Holmdel, New Jersey, and Frank Gehry‘s Stata Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Based on original archival
research, this thesis provides a fresh analysis of primary sources from the architectural archives at the University of Pennsylvania and the
Salk Papers at UC San Diego. This interdisciplinary topic also requires the analysis of secondary sources from a wide range of fields,
including architectural history, history of science and sociology. As I demonstrate, each of these three architects manipulated the
building‘s plans to include spaces for social interaction. From the iconic courtyard of the Salk Institute and Saarinen‘s long corridors at
Bell Labs to the winding student street of the Stata Center, the spaces intended by architects to promote interaction often are not used as
designed. A study of these three laboratories traces the history of modern architecture through the lens of one building type, allowing us
to see the way that three important architects solve similar problems for similar groups of users and arrive at different solutions.
Key Words Related to Project
architecture, modern, interaction, laboratory
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Carla
Room
202C
Yanni
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
Art and Biography
Advisor Email
cyanni@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
71 Hamilton St
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kathleen Irwin is a senior in the school of Arts and Sciences majoring in Art History and English. Her primary field of interest is modern
architectural history with an emphasis on the ways that buildings shape human interaction. After graduation, she plans to continue
working in the New Jersey State Historic Preservation Office and pursue her Ph.D.
Email Address
katirwin@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Art History, English
Humanities
First Name
Ana
M
Last Name
Jimenez Moreno
Abstract Title
Noli Me Tangere: Codeswitching in D. H. Lawrence‘s "The Plumed Serpent"
Abstract
The editors of The Plumed Serpent and Quetzalcoatl standardized foreign language words and in their commentary about their editorial
changes, justified this by stating that D. H. Lawrence‘s emphasis of these words reflected his ―indifference‖. In my judgment, they have
normalized something that had meaning-making properties. It was not Lawrence‘s intention to uniformly underline all Spanish words, or
to never underline them. I argue that Lawrence underlined to give a specific emphasis to a particular usage of a Spanish word or to
replace the use of quotation marks. I traveled to Harvard‘s Houghton Library and University of Texas at Austin‘s Harry Ransom Center
to look at the manuscripts, typescripts, and holograph page proofs, basically revisions, of both the earlier and later version of what would
be published as The Plumed Serpent. I initially focused my research on specific moments in the text that surround key codeswitches.
Then I made an inventory on all Spanish codeswitches to see if they were underlined or not. I recorded these notations in an Excel
spreadsheet and simultaneously tracked the published books themselves. I found that L. D. Clark, the editor of The Plumed Serpent,
transcribed the changes throughout the texts accurately. The editor of Quetzalcoatl, on the other hand, sought to eliminate all italics
unless Lawrence underlined (in his manuscript or typescript) repeatedly. However, I also found that certain words were underlined in the
manuscript and the corrected typescript but not in the final printed Cambridge or New Directions edition. The editors, then, failed to
consistently underline, or not, Spanish words and phrases and therefore blur the authorial intent in choosing to codeswitch. Both editors,
from what I deduced between the small number, yet, important discrepancies between what Lawrence wanted emphasized and what they
focused on, was that they wanted to force a convention out of a highly subjectively written novel. It was an amazing intellectual
experience, nonetheless, to be imitating the editors I worked with thus far and enter into a dialogue with them.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Martin
Room
Gliserman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
martin.gliserman@rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Room 209 Murray Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ana M. Jimenez Moreno is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in English and minoring in History. She, along with two
others, has done an Aresty presentation before.
Email Address
anamjm@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
English
Humanities
First Name
Larissa C
Last Name
Klein
Abstract Title
Establishing Sacred Space: Hammam-Lif and Synagogues in Antiquity
Abstract
Judaism in antiquity revolved around reverence for the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, but the Temple‘s destruction in 70 C.E., and the
Diaspora that followed, forced the Jews to establish a new religious hierarchy — one that incorporated local synagogues. Unlike the
Temple, the early synagogue was not a firmly established place of worship, and Diaspora Jews struggled to situate themselves and their
religious spaces throughout the Roman Empire. The fifth century mosaics from the synagogue in Hammam-Lif, Tunisia indicate a Jewish
Diaspora community that embraced North African culture and essentially non-Jewish visual motifs. They did so, however, not to
assimilate to local culture, but rather to promote their synagogue structure as a sacred space. Sacred symbols from the ancient Temple,
from chancel screens, and from local church architecture combine in the sanctuary mosaic at Hammam-Lif, urging viewers to recognize
the synagogue as a sanctified space. Scholars have differing opinions on what Christian or pagan images mean within the context of the
Diaspora synagogue, but they often dismiss a non-Jewish symbol as a thoughtless decorative flourish or a sign of forced acculturation. I
challenge the belief that Diaspora Jews sacrificed their values to meet the needs of their multi-ethnic communities, or that they borrowed
motifs from pattern books or other religious structures unwittingly and without a religious purpose. I argue that the Jews employed what
may now seem to be contradictory sets of Jewish, Christian, and pagan images in the synagogue to the same, purposeful end, inspiring a
sense of religiosity.
Key Words Related to Project
synagogue, mosaics, Late Antiquity
Category
Humanities
Advisor
John
Room
202C
Kenfield
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
Art and Biography
Advisor Email
john.kenfield@gmail.com
Advisor Address
Voorhees Hall, 71 Hamilton Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Larissa Klein is a School of Arts and Sciences senior majoring in Art History and minoring in English.
Email Address
larisk@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Art History
Humanities
First Name
Maxwell E
Last Name
Kon
Abstract Title
Which Subjects Provide Reliable Data for Linguistic Experiments?
Abstract
Linguistic research relies on informal intuitions as the primary source of data. However, the reliability of informal acceptability
judgments has been called into question due to possible bias, non-replicability of the data and the quality of the data collected (Spencer
1972, Schutze 1996, Gibson & Fedorenko 2010, Kawahara to appear). Professional linguists are also said to be more sensitive to slight
contrasts than non-linguists (Sprouse & Almeida submitted). On the other hand, it has been shown empirically that linguistic effects can
be detected even when tested with small sample sizes, which suggests that intuitions reported in the literature are a reliable source of
linguistic data. Our experiment involved non-linguists, PhD candidates in linguistics, and professional linguists holding a PhD. In order
to compare these groups, we studied the availability of pair-list answers to questions with object quantifiers (Q: Which boy ate every
fruit? A: John ate an apple and Joe ate an orange), which is known to be controversial (Achimova et. al. in prep.). Our analysis shows that
all three groups display similar trends in rating pair-list answers more acceptable for questions with a subject quantifier and in finding no
difference in the type of wh-phrase (who or which). The only difference between these three groups is that the general acceptability rating
is higher for non-linguists than for PhD candidates, although it does not reach significance. In all, this experiment provides support for
the notion that the judgments of linguists and non-linguists are similar when obtained under experimental conditions.
Key Words Related to Project
Linguistic methodology acceptability judgments
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Julien
Room
Musolino
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
julienm@ruccs.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Rm 135, Psychology Building, 152 Frelinhuysen Rd., Piscataway, NJ, 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Max Kon is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Linguistics and Cognitive Science.
Email Address
maxkon@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Linguistics, Cognitive Science
Humanities
First Name
Jennifer M
Last Name
Kong
Abstract Title
Border Crossing Memories: An Oral History Project about Migration & Borders
Abstract
There is a need to enhance research performed on the Arizona-Mexico border between 2002-2007 and provide the basis for future work
with migrant communities in New Jersey. With about 350 million people crossing legally every year, it is the most frequently crossed
international border in the world, as stated by the U.S. Embassy in Mexico. Injustice through inequality prevails along the border, not
only because of the physical barrier itself, but also due to the conceptualization of such a divide amongst polarized societies. Through
this research, there will be additional information about migrant injury and death on the Arizona-Sonora border and will provide the
foundation for future research and grant solicitations. The personal narratives about how migrants imagined the U.S.-Mexico border and
their crossing of it, how they actually experience it, and how they perceive their journey in retrospect, will contribute to our
understanding of how spatial dynamics shape the immigrant experience. By grasping the history of the U.S.-Mexican border through the
studies of timelines and reading scholarly works, the research team better understands the effects of the border on each of the personal
narratives. On subject‘s approval, digital audio recordings will be made and all informational data will be treated as confidential. The
main risk participants face is the possibility of being identified as unauthorized migrants. This project concerning the well being of the
border-crossees of the past and the future, will add to the existing research, paving a path to a betterment in the policy-making of U.S.Mexican Border.
Key Words Related to Project
Cultural Anthropology, Humanities, Immigration, U.S.-Mexican Border
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Rocío
Room
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
magana@rci.rutgers.edu
Magaña
Advisor Address
131 George Street, Ruth Adams Bldg.312
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jennifer Kong is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cultural Anthropology and History and minoring in
Education. She currently works for The Daily Targum as a staff photographer and mentors New Brunswick elementary students as part of
a program called Pilot Me. After graduation, she hopes to teach History to middle school students and do further research in Cultural
Anthropology.
Email Address
jenkong@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Anthropology, History
Humanities
First Name
Mihir
Last Name
Kunal
Abstract Title
Variations of Micro-finance Practices throughout the World
Abstract
When it comes to the term ‗micro-finance‘, there is a large misconception to the true meaning of the word. In essence, micro-finance
refers to the provision of financial services to clients of low-income backgrounds who have relatively limited access to banking services.
However, while the definition stands true in the simplest sense, micro-finance varies dramatically across the world. Micro-finance, and
more specifically micro-finance granting institutions (MFI‘s), play different roles in different parts of the world. These different roles are
a result of variations in government practices, cultural boundaries, and local norms. Thus, micro-finance, while understood in meaning, is
not the same in practice throughout the world. For the reasons stated, micro-finance granting institutions employ several varying styles in
different regions.
Key Words Related to Project
microfinance, mfi, micro-finance, mihir
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Jeffrey
Room
Robinson
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
jrobinson@business.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Mihir Kunal is junior at the Rutgers Business School majoring in Finance, and minoring in Economics & Entrepreneurship.
Email Address
mihirk@eden.rutgers.edu
Video Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Rutgers Business School
Class Year
2012
Major
Finance
Humanities
First Name
Courtney K
Last Name
Lee
Abstract Title
Students' Knowledge of Vegetarian Nutrition and Their Willingness to Participate in "Meatless Mondays"
Abstract
Research indicates that those following a vegetarian diet have little difficulty consuming a balanced diet and are, on average, not at
serious risk for developing nutritional deficiencies. In fact, following a vegetarian diet has been proven to lower the risk of chronic
diseases such as hypertension, Type II Diabetes, and certain cancers. Among non-vegetarians, however, there may be misconceptions
regarding the nutritional soundness of a vegetarian diet. A survey was developed to study college students‘ perceptions of healthful
vegetarian eating, and research was collected in conjunction with an interactive nutrition booth in the campus dining halls. The
participants (n=93) were a random representation of students eating in campus dining halls, and included both males and females of
various race and ethnic backgrounds, ranging from 18-23 years old. Of the non-vegetarians surveyed (n=72), 77% responded that they
thought the vegetarian diet was deficient in protein. Additionally, when asked about their willingness to follow a vegetarian diet for one
day per week, such as ―Meatless Mondays‖, 33% of non-vegetarians stated that they would not be willing to follow such a diet. Their
reluctance to follow ―Meatless Mondays‖ could be due to their fallacy that vegetarians experience difficulty obtaining sufficient
nutrition. Further education to the college population regarding vegetarian diet adequacy, proper nutritional supplementation, fortified
foods, and benefits to health and the environment can be provided in order to elucidate the benefits of avoiding meat. Upon further
education, an additional study could be performed to see if willingness to go ―Meatless Mondays‖ changed.
Key Words Related to Project
Nutiriton, Meatless mondays, Vegetarian, Students
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Peggy
Room
Policastro
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
peggyp@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Rutgers University, Davison Hall, Room 220, 26 Nichol Ave., New Brunswick, NJ, 08901
Other Students Involved
Marina Vineis
Presenter Biography
Andrea Ficarra is a sophomore at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Nutritional Sciences, Dietetics.
Christopher Gunning is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Nutritional Sciences, Dietetics.
Courtney Lee is a junior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Nutritional Sciences, Dietetics. Maryanna
Tosi is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciencesmajoring in Nutritional Sciences, Dietetics.
Email Address
courtlee@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
Environmental and Biologic 2012
Major
Nutritional Sciences
Humanities
First Name
Richard J
Last Name
Lee
Abstract Title
20th Century New York City Hotels: Public Space and Commercial Development
Abstract
Contemporary America faces a glaring decline of its once crown jewel cities. It is a symbiotic relationship between increasingly
segregated urban populations and the larger national community, which enter 21st century at different variations. Despite this publicly
confirmed analysis, New York City stands as the representative exception to national urban decline. This thesis and visual presentation
focuses on the trajectory of New York City's (Manhattan) development, through the overlooked and overlapping perspective of
significant hotel models developed from the Grand Hotel of the 1890's to the Convention Hotel developed during the 1960's. Because of
its nature to intersect domestic and commercial values, the city's hotels as an industrial force have created new definition of urban public
spaces and spearheading the capitalist role of postwar urban planning exemplified through Times Square. In contrast, intimate studies of
individual hotel populations allow insight into the basic human interactions that characterize American urban setting, confirming the
hotel's identity as a potent cultural incubator
Key Words Related to Project
Urban Planning, New York City, Tourism & Leisure, Manhattan
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Allison
Room
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
<isenberg@history.rutgers.edu>
Isenberg
Advisor Address
Van Dyke Hall, College Avenue Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Richard Jung Lee is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in History and American Studies.
Email Address
rilee22@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Art and Sciences 2011
Major
History, American Studies
Humanities
First Name
Michelle D
Last Name
Lieblich
Abstract Title
Jewish-Catholic Relations under Pope Benedict XVI: the effects of the Holocaust today
Abstract
In recent years, two Holocaust-related controversies surrounding the Vatican have gained public attention and have elicited significant
criticism from both Jewish and Catholic sources: Pope Benedict XVI's furthering of his wartime predecessor, Pope Pius XII on the path
to sainthood and his reacceptance of Bishop Richard Williamson, an open Holocaust denier, back into the Church. In each case, it
appears that Benedict XVI disregarded Jewish sensitivity to the Holocaust in favor of internal Catholic unity. Ironically, Benedict XVI's
attempts at unification have alienated people from the Vatican and caused more disagreement between liberal and conservative Catholics.
Additionally, Jewish-Catholic relations have, as a result, suffered serious setbacks. While dialogue will continue, Jewish trust in the
pope's commitment to Jewish-Catholic reconciliation has diminished.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Paola
Room
201B
Tartakoff
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Religion and Politics
Advisor Email
tartakof@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Michelle Lieblich is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring in Jewish
Studies.
Email Address
mlieb@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Humanities
First Name
April
M
Last Name
Maly
Abstract Title
Fluid Movment: A Study of Environmental Education Through Art and its Effect on Awareness
Abstract
Environmental issues can be difficult to grasp fully. To increase understanding of environmental issues, there must be an increase in
environmental advocacy. A group of youthes (4th-8th graders) were targeted in order to find out if environmental issues could be better
understood if introduced through the arts. The selected environmental issue was water pollution. Four different materials were
examined. Each material was introduced to water and the stages of decomposition were examined and then documented through
individual graphic representation. The artistic representation allowed the students compare the materials against each other during group
discussion. Observing the students' increased confidence with discussion of the experimental process was an indicator that
environmental art can increase understanding of environmental issues. Graphic representation made for a tangible way of understanding
and can be a successful way to teach other material.
Key Words Related to Project
Art, Education, Advocacy
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Jean Marie
Room
Hartman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
jhartman@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
April Maly is a graduating senior of 2011 from the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences at Rutgers, the State University of
New Jersey. She is a Landscape Architecture major and a Plant Science minor.
Email Address
maly@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Humanities
First Name
Jennifer S
Last Name
Manoukian
Abstract Title
An Armenian in Paris: The French Influence on the Early Work of Zabel Yessayan
Abstract
The scholarly discourse on Armenians has been overwhelmingly dominated by studies on the Armenian Genocide and its aftermath.
Although there is no doubt that this period was one of the most shattering for the Armenian people as a whole, by so narrowly focusing
on this period, we tend to forget that Armenians have not always been victims. In an attempt to combat this prevailing discourse and
reveal another significant facet of the Armenian experience in history, this research project centers on Zabel Yessayan, one of modern
Armenian literature‘s most prominent figures. The poetry and short stories that Yessayan published in Armenian and French literary
journals as a young student in Paris in addition to her autobiography, The Gardens of Silihdar, form the basis of this study, however, an
look into the cultural milieu that she inhabited as a girl growing up in Constantinople at the end of the 19th century as well as an
examination into the French-Armenian relationship throughout history help to more broadly contextualize her work. By analyzing six
short stories and two poems written in Armenian and three short stories written in French between 1895-1900, a unique fusion of French
and Armenian literary influences emerge in both sets of texts and strongly mark her work from this period.
Key Words Related to Project
Armenian Literature, Women Writers, French Literature, 19th century
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Carole
Room
Allamand
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
allamand@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
131 George Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901 Rm. 103
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jennifer Manoukian is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in French and Middle Eastern Studies with a minor in
Political Science and a certificate in International Studies. This presentation is the culmination of her Honors Thesis written through the
French Department
Email Address
jmanouki@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
French and Middle Eastern Studies
Humanities
First Name
Lara
J
Last Name
Martin
Abstract Title
Perception of Duration in Geminates
Abstract
A geminate is defined as a consonant that is elongated in order to create a new independent sound. Gemination is seen in languages such
as Arabic, Italian, and Japanese. The question then arises, how do humans perceive the difference in duration? In order to perceive
duration of consonants, a listener has to detect the segmental boundaries between the consonants and surrounding vowels. According to
Kato et al‘s (1997) research, the segments are differentiated by their amplitude change. Building on Kato et al, Kawahara et al (2010)
examined whether the duration of consonants that involve spectral continuity were harder to perceive or not, where the spectrally
continuous stimuli involved less amplitude change. The study, which tested native English speakers, found that spectrally non-continuous
consonants are more discriminable. The question still remains of whether it is amplitude change or spectral discontinuity that allows the
listener to detect segmental boundaries. The current experiments address this question through discrimination tasks of short and long
consonant intervals involving non-speech stimuli; two sine waves, or ―vowels‖ surrounding a quieter beep or silence, emulating
consonant intervals.
Key Words Related to Project
phonetics, geminates, segmental boundaries
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Shigeto
Room
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
kawahara@rci.rutgers.edu
Kawahara
Advisor Address
18 Seminary Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Audrey Krum
Presenter Biography
Lara Martin is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Computer Science(BS) and Linguistics. She hopes to
continue her education after college by pursuing a Ph.D. in Natural Language Processing. Audrey Krum is a second year student in the
School of Arts and Sciences. Pursuing a Linguistics major and double minor in Psychology and Political Science, she hopes to continue
undergraduate research at Rutgers and then attend graduate school.
Email Address
laramar@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Computer Science, Linguistics
Humanities
First Name
Kelly
S
Last Name
Meany
Abstract Title
Poetic Form In Antebellum Periodicals
Abstract
Godey‘s Lady‘s Book and Graham‘s Magazine were two popular American literary magazines in the nineteenth century that featured
prose and poetry by both male and female writers. Despite their popularity during the antebellum period, many of the writers that were
published in the magazines remain largely unknown. The purpose of this research is to catalogue and analyze the poetry featured in these
periodicals. We are researching what types of poems and poetic form were popular during this period and how they differ from the 19th
century poetry that is popular today. With each issue of the magazine, we read and documented a set of elements for each piece of
poetry, including stanzaic form, page layout, and genre. We employed these methods to determine if there were specific forms and
themes that were popular in antebellum period, and if they were specific to poetry published in periodicals. With this research we have
begun to compile a database that catalogues each piece featured in Godey‘s Lady‘s Book and Graham‘s Magazine. As our research
continues, we are attempting to rewrite the history of 19th century poetry, allowing us to discover lesser known poets and their work
published within these periodicals.
Key Words Related to Project
poetry, periodicals, 19 century
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Meredith
Room
McGill
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
mlmcgill@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
8 Bishop Place
Other Students Involved
Virginia Pastor
Presenter Biography
Kelly Meany is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in English and American Studies. Virginia Pastor is a
junior at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in English and History and minoring in French.
Email Address
kmeany@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
English and American Studies
Humanities
First Name
Caryn
F
Last Name
Miller
Abstract Title
War and Peace of Mind: The Jewish Expulsion and the Election of President Ulysses S. Grant
Abstract
On December 17, 1862, General Ulysses S. Grant of the Union Army during the American Civil War expelled the Jews "as a class" from
parts of Mississippi, Kentucky, and Tennessee. After a few of the affected Jews sent out telegrams to newspapers and politicians, this
expulsion soon became a national issue that influenced President Abraham Lincoln, members of Congress, members of the press, and the
American public at large. People all over the country questioned whether Grant was an anti-Semite, and, before long, this controversy
became an issue in the Election of 1868. Even now, historians are divided over whether Ulysses S. Grant was an anti-Semite. This study
explores the possible origins of the Order, the immediate repercussions, its affect on the Grant Campaign during the Election of 1868,
and the question of whether Ulysses S. Grant was, indeed, an anti-Semite. While some work has already been done on this topic, it
focuses a great deal on Grant's personal opinions about Jews. This study takes a closer look at political and economic factors as well as
how this Order could have changed the course of the election. In it, I will demonstrate that Ulysses S. Grant may have had certain antiSemitic tendencies, especially in relation to economics, that the issuance of this Order could have changed the course of the Election of
1868, and that he seemed to be a friend to the Jews as a result of political motivations rather than genuine friendship.
Key Words Related to Project
Jews, Grant, General Orders Number 11, Civil War, anti-Semitism
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Nancy
Room
201B
Time
10- 11 a.m.
Panel Name
National Identity and Ownership of the Past
Advisor Email
nsinkoff@rutgers.edu
Sinkoff
Advisor Address
14 College Avenue, New Brunswick (Miller Hall)
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Caryn Miller is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences, is a member of the Honors Program, and is a History major with a double
minor in Spanish and Political Science. She is also a student in the Rutgers Graduate School of Education's Five-Year Master's Program
in Secondary Social Studies Education.
Email Address
carynm@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2011
Major
History
Humanities
First Name
Hoda
Last Name
Mitwally
Abstract Title
In Egypt's Name: Nationalism in Salah Jahin‘s Poetry
Abstract
After the 1952 Revolution, attitudes toward Arabic literature in Egypt radically shifted. A group of young nationalist poets began to write
shi`r al-`ammiya, or ―colloquial poetry.‖ Most notably, this literary circle included Salah Jahin (1930 – 1986), a prominent poet,
screenwriter, cartoonist and lyricist. My interdisciplinary honors thesis explores the development of colloquial Egyptian Arabic poetry
during the Nasser era with a focus on Jahin's works. I argue that Jahin represents a crucial turning point in the development of Arabic
poetry by conveying nationalist ideas through a written vernacular accessible to the Egyptian masses. Jahin‘s creation of a nationalist folk
genre was not a rejection of formal register, but rather to legitimize it as an equally legitimate literary language for emancipatory
purposes. In addition, this new genre spoke to the lives, aspirations, fears, and existential concerns of Egyptians. Contrary to the notion
that vernacular Arabic would promote qutriyya (territorial nationalism) and thus undermine qawmiyya (Arab unity), Jahin‘s poetry is
representative of his deep affection of and belief in the Arab nationalist cause. I seek to examine how Jahin's poetry depicts changes in
post-revolutionary Egyptian society, constructs images of the nation, and contributes to discourses of Third World internationalism and
pan-Arab nationalism.
Key Words Related to Project
Egypt, poetry, nationalism, anti-colonialism, pan-Arabism
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Samah
Room
202A
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Citizenship and Culture
Advisor Email
sselim@rci.rutgers.edu
Selim
Advisor Address
Lucy Stone Hall Room B329, Livingston Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Hoda Mitwally is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in History and Middle Eastern Studies. She has been
involved with undergraduate research since her sophomore year as an Aresty Research Assistant for Dr. Deepa Kumar. After graduation,
she plans to apply to graduate school.
Email Address
mitwally@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
History and Middle Eastern Studies
Humanities
First Name
Sehar
Last Name
Mughal
Abstract Title
Negotiating Power in The Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Abstract
Oppressed, timid, and powerless: conventional images of the Pakistani woman have been that of a passive and voiceless being existing in
a society dominated by religious extremism. General Zia-ul-Haq‘s campaign to Islamize Pakistan in the 1980s only added to this image of
passivity and oppression and has been seen as a great step backwards for women‘s rights in Pakistan. By analyzing popular media during
the time of Zia-ul-Haq, I look at ways in which women in Pakistan negotiated power under structures of Islamic extremism and
patriarchy, and other, perhaps more relevant, structures of economic class and presence in traditional family systems.
Key Words Related to Project
Pakistan, Islam, Women, Media, Power
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Barbara
Room
Cooper
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
bacooper@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sehar Mughal is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History and Journalism.
Email Address
sery@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
History
Humanities
First Name
Ryan
D
Last Name
Norman
Abstract Title
Time in 20th Century Literature
Abstract
A window into Time: Abstract on Time in 20th Century Literature Project The passage of time in literature drastically affects the
progression of a story. Though perhaps little thought of by readers, understanding of of time in literature is at times vital to understanding
of a work itself. By analyzing the works of 20th, century writers such as James Joyce, the project sought to gain a better understanding of
the way time interacts with narrative. By doing so, and by publishing the analysis into a book, the project seeks to open up discourse on
the topic in the world of criticism. On completion and publication of said book, the literary analysis provides new insight on highly
influential 20th century works. The analysis of time in literature is a window the worlds created in 20th century works, and is perhaps
also window also into the intentions of these worlds‘ respective creators.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
William
Room
Vesterman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
william.vesterman@rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ryan Norman is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in English.
Email Address
rnorman@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
English
Humanities
First Name
Kajal
D
Last Name
Patel
Abstract Title
Kolunje Water Supply Project
Abstract
The lack of access to clean water is a plaguing problem around the world. In Kolunje, Kenya, a community comprised of over 18,000
people in seven villages, the current water sources used to support the community‘s water needs are often far, vulnerable to running dry
in the dry season, and are frequently contaminated. As water becomes increasingly scarce, women and school children are forced to walk
further and further for water. Waterborne disease is widespread and health services at the local hospital are inadequate and often
prohibitively expensive for those with marginal income. The main goal of the Engineers Without Borders (EWB) project is to bring
clean water to Kolunje by designing and implementing a sustainable water system involving a system of wells, pumps, tanks, and taps.
Providing the people of Kolunje with the knowledge and resources to maintain a clean and reliable water system will drastically improve
their quality of life.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Anthony
Room
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
aswelch@rci.rutgers.edu
Welch
Advisor Address
98 Brett Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kajal Patel is a senior at the School of Engineering majoring in Civil Engineering and minoring in Planning and Public Policy. She is an
active member of Engineers Without Borders, the organization which this project is a part of.
Email Address
kajal922@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2011
Major
Civil Engineering
Humanities
First Name
Vidhi
Last Name
Patel
Abstract Title
Analyzing Our Bodies, Ourselves: The Past, Present, and Future of Women‘s Health
Abstract
This research focuses on the text written by Boston Women‘s Health Book Collective (BWHBC), Our Bodies, Ourselves. Every three to
five years this women‘s organization issues an updated edition of the book with expanded information on topics they may have been
covered in their previous editions. These books were written to educate women about their bodies, different diseases, and health care
options. My research question is to see what are the positive and negative aspects of the BWHBC‘s professionalization? In relation to
their professionalism, I would like to see how the content, audience, and the women participants in the book changes from the 1970s
edition to today? Additionally, I look at whether these changes occur due to technological expertise or political context of the group?
There are various topics that are discussed in this book; however, the two topics of my interest are female‘s reproductive health and the
negotiation of the health care institution. The topic female reproductive health is important because most women go through this stage in
their life. The subtopics that are discussed are reproduction, puberty, menopause, birth control methods, pregnancy and abortion. The
negotiation of the health care institution is discussed because not all women are aware of their rights to health care and how to approach
health care policies. Thus, I expand on previous work done by the BWHBC to further analyze the topics discussed above.
Key Words Related to Project
Women, Health care, Reproductive health
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Barbara
Room
Balliet
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
bballiet@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
203 College Hall ; 125 George Street, New Brunswick
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Vidhi Patel is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in Biological Sciences and Women‘s and Gender Studies.
Email Address
vidhip@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Biological Sciences and Women's and Gender Stu
Humanities
First Name
Michael S
Last Name
Piscetelli
Abstract Title
The Impact of Insurgency on American Interests Foreign and Abroad
Abstract
The project is going to discuss the impact that insurgency has played on the military and politics of the United States of America. I plan
on studying historical examples of past insurgent conflicts and pulling out valuable bits of information that can be use to help build an
effective plan on dealing with future examples of counter insurgency. I also plan going over and discussing the American political
response to insurgency and will also attempt create a plan for dealing with it as well. I will achieve this by reading material about the
subject and interviewing survivors of past conflicts. Using both sources I will create an effect plan for both issues.
Key Words Related to Project
Military American Insurgency Foreign Affairs
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Kenneth
Room
Patterson
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
ROTCPMS@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Army ROTC Building
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Michael Piscetelli is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Computer Science and Mathematics. He is also a cadet
Rutgers Army ROTC program.
Email Address
michaelpiscetelli@gmail.com
Video Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Computer Science
Humanities
First Name
Sylvia
Last Name
Pokrzywa
Abstract Title
Resistance and Deception Within the Catholic Church in Communist Poland
Abstract
I examine the relationship between the Catholic Church and the Communist Party. I write about how the Catholic Church is able to keep
its identity in such a difficult environment. I also look through the other side, where there were indeed Church informers. I focus on the
years 1953-1979.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Paul
Room
Hanebrink
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
Hanebrin@history.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Van Dyck Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sylvia Pokrzywa is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History and Political Science.
Email Address
pokrzywa@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
History, Political Science
Humanities
First Name
Jessica
Last Name
Rabkin
Abstract Title
‗Last Witness‘: Lucy S. Dawidowicz, The New York Intellectuals, and the Politics of Jewish History
Abstract
‗Last Witness‘: Lucy S. Dawidowicz, The New York Intellectuals, and the Politics of Jewish History is a research project that will
culminate in a political biography of an influential and contentious female Jewish public intellectual in postwar America. This research
arises out of the question as to why Lucy Dawidowicz seems to have dropped out of the historiography on the New York Jewish
intellectuals even though she shared with them the same political trajectory (from left-to right-wing politics). Much attention is brought
not only to Jewish intellectuals in post-war America, but particularly those individuals involved in Jewish politics. By reading and
summarizing Dawidowicz‘s personal correspondence with her colleagues and friends, I have been able to gain a better understanding of
not only who she was as a person, but also her political views. I was able to witness first-hand the respect with which Dawidowicz was
given from her peers and colleageaues. It seemed many people came to Dawidowicz seeking advise not only on politics, but also on
personal matters. She was a great example of the contributions that woman can make in Jewish history and Jewish politics. These letters
help provide insight and to analyze the role that gender and Jewish history played in the intellectual circle.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Nancy
Room
Sinkoff
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
nsinkoff@jewishstudies.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
12 College Avenue
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jessica Rabkin is a junior in the Rutgers Business School majoring in Marketing and minoring in political science.
Email Address
jrabkin@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Business School
Class Year
2012
Major
Marketing
Humanities
First Name
Katherine A
Last Name
Rini
Abstract Title
A Movement Towards Re-discovering Our Roots
Abstract
Since the beginning of written literature, authors have been writing novels built off the bildungsroman. Such novels depict a character‘s
journey to self-discovery and moral growth. Although this paper does not mirror a bildungsroman, it enhances the field of English
Literature by shining a light on a unique path one can take to find a meaningful life. This meaning blossoms from the dismally empty
existence that man currently lives. This life is characterized by capitalist ideology associated with the pursuit of power, wealth and
consumer goods. Yet these empty values will never lead man to a meaningful existence, one with purpose or significance. Sustainable
farming offers man a solution to his meaningless, empty and often contradictory existence. Such farming leads man to a balanced
existence, where he experiences freedom, unity and happiness. By looking at the differing lifestyles and beliefs of prominent members of
the sustainable farming community, it is evident that when people live in harmony with the land and connect themselves with other life
forms they live a more meaningful existence. As a result of extensive research done on the topic, it was found that by utilizing specific
techniques of farming that stayed true to nature‘s design, one can better find and understand their place in the world. This place is not as
nature‘s master but as one part of the whole, living in balance with the natural world and not getting caught up in the trivial values of
money, power, selfish gain and material objects.
Key Words Related to Project
English, Agriculture, Meaning
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Richard
Room
202A
Dienst
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Citizenship and Culture
Advisor Email
rdnst@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
SAS - English 43 Mine Street, Rm 102 New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1111
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Katherine Rini is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in English and mining in Political Science. In accordance with her
thesis topic, she is highly interested in food and agriculture. She has expressed this interest by interning on a sustainable farm, and plans
to farm after college. Eventually she would like to go to graduate school and study food policy. She is also interested in woman‘s
achievement, and therefore involved in Douglass Residential College where she is involved in recruitment. She has worked as a Douglass
Summer Orientation Leader as well as a Red Pine Ambassador, where she is currently on the Executive Board. As a prominent student
leader she participated in the traditional Yule Log ceremony and is now a part of the Senior Class Council. In addition to her Douglass
Residential College involvement she has a strong interest in International Studies. Besides working toward an International Studies
Email Address
krini@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
English
Humanities
First Name
Samantha M
Last Name
Rodriguez
Abstract Title
Intercultural Communication in Practice
Abstract
As the requirement for intercultural communication competence of college students continues to grow rapidly, this study is to investigate
the relevant research and outcomes of a ―Conversations Partner Project‖ conducted in an intercultural communication course at the
Department of Communication. The project was designed for students to exercise communication skills with international students
representing different cultures. Each of the 28 students was paired with an international student studying at Rutgers. Partners met weekly
and documented their major findings, relationship growth, connections to intercultural theories, as well as their lessons learned during the
project. Using survey responses and reflection papers, this study attempts to review the applicable literature, evaluate the outcomes of the
project, and address the issues reported by the participating students. Through content analysis, students‘ responses will be compared to
find which areas of this collaborative project can help participants gain intercultural communication knowledge and skills. This research
is also important for enhancing the program with evidence-based recommendations. Preliminary results suggest that many students
benefited from the experience, not only for knowledge enhancement, but for interpersonal communication competence. Many students
reported connections to theories learned in class, such as collectivistic/individualistic cultures, high-context/low-context cultures, power
distance, and communication accommodation theory. Further investigation of other programs similar to the Conversation Partner Project
will provide additional implications significant for continued development of the project. This study aims to present findings based on
first-hand experiences and reflections and explore links between conceptual understanding and intercultural practices.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Hui-Min
Room
Kuo
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
huimink@rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
CIL-210
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Samantha Rodriguez is a junior at the School of Communication and Information double majoring in Communication and Psychology. A
member of the honor societies, The National Society of Collegiate Scholars and Lambda Pi Eta, she is a hard-working and dedicated
student passionate in her studies. Samantha is also very interested in intercultural studies.
Email Address
samirod@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Communication a 2012
Major
Communication, Psychology
Humanities
First Name
Patricia K
Last Name
Roode
Abstract Title
J.E.B. Stuart and the Battle of Gettysburg: Was He Responsible for Lee's Defeat?
Abstract
My presentation will be regarding the American Civil War and the Battle of Gettysburg. It will discuss the culpability in the loss
Confederate Cavalry Commander J.E.B. Stuart. While it is difficult to determine if any one factor related to the battle were changed,
whether the outcome of the battle would have changed. So many ifs are a part of history, but my thesis will show that the ―if‖ around
Stuart‘s presence on the right flank of the Confederate Army would not have ultimately made a difference in the outcome of the battle.
Strategically, the Confederates would have had to give battle in the north somewhere to further their plans, and had Robert E. Lee made
appropriate use of his resources, he could have chosen the ground he wished to fight on, instead of leaving it to fate by waiting for
Stuart's reconnaissance. Had Lee's orders been clearer to his subordinates, there would not have been the start of a general engagement
without orders, and his men could have been better prepared for battle on ground of his choosing. Therefore Stuart‘s reconnaissance
would have been helpful, but the lack of it was not critical to the loss of the battle.
Key Words Related to Project
American Civil War
Category
Humanities
Advisor
John
Room
201B
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
Wars: Remembered or Forgotten
Advisor Email
Chambers
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Patti Roode is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in history and minoring in Art History.
Email Address
patroode@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
History
Humanities
First Name
Julian
W
Last Name
Rowlands
Abstract Title
Reevaluating Morality Within the Military Bureaucracy of Louis XIV
Abstract
The undisputed idol of Louis XIV‘s France was Sébastien Le Prestre, an engineer and renaissance man who dabbled in many fields and
excelled in each. To Louis XIV he was the most loyal of servants, supervising the creation of the nation‘s defensive works and
developing a nigh-unstoppable method of besieging and capturing fortresses. To his peers, he was an intellectual demi-god whose feats
of engineering were so complex as to be incomprehensible. To historians, meanwhile, he was above all else a great humanitarian within
his time. Or was he? Though his reputation has expanded over time thorough evidence for such an assertion has yet to be concisely
presented. Individual examples of behavior befitting a humanitarian are occasionally given, but historians have yet to truly fill out the
characterization they have bequethed Le Prestre. To solve this omission, I have investigated Vauban‘s words, works and legacy in
order to create a unified image of the great engineer‘s actions and beliefs viz a viz their morality. Everything from his vocabulary to his
personal library, records of his military actions, and letters to the King has been parsed through to create a thorough narrative of his
humanitarian bent, or lack thereof. To further flesh out an understanding of what made Le Prestre exceptional, equally influential men
from similar circumstances within the Grand Siècle have been evaluated. The result is a detailed portrait of the personality and moral
leanings of Vauban, and also by consequence those of his peers and the French State itself.
Key Words Related to Project
france, siege, fortifications, humanitarianism, vauban
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Jennifer
Room
Jones
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
jemjones@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
101A Van Dyke Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Julian Rowlands is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History and minoring in Middle Eastern Studies. While living
in Paris as a child he became fascinated with the nation's illustrious history of public beheadings and completely unnecessary wars.
Seeking to vanquish his obsession, he was forced to choose between writing a thesis and invading the Duchy of Piedmont-Savoy. His
mother is glad he chose the former.
Email Address
jrowl@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
History
Humanities
First Name
Alexandra G
Last Name
Savino
Abstract Title
Persian Gulf Regional Security: Rollback or Domestic Political Strife?
Abstract
The history of rollback within United States foreign policy is often difficult to follow. Although selectively implemented in the latter
stages of the war, Korea presented an interesting conceptualization of the application of rollback. Due to an increasing pressure on behalf
of the American public, impatience with containment grew and eventually President Truman covertly initiated a policy of rollback despite
being criticized for his publicly passive policy. In the early 1940‘s and 1950‘s, this policy did not ultimately lead to rollback within
Korea but it led to the Soviet bear‘s preoccupation. In due time, the United States succeeded in undermining and stirring up trouble
abroad so the USSR was less able to mettle in other countries. Flash forward to 1977, President Jimmy Carter entered the White House as
a political outsider, a beacon of liberal hope in the wake of Nixon‘s disgrace. Unfortunately by the end of 1979, the Soviets had invaded
Afghanistan forcing Carter to reanalyze his policy toward the communists. President Carter‘s prior experience at Annapolis and time
spent aboard nuclear submarines subliminally influenced his foreign policy as president. When President Carter and National Security
Advisor Zbigniew Brzezinski aligned a policy of covert action in Afghanistan became a distinct reality. Eventually this alleged policy of
rollback developed into a Persian Gulf Regional Security strategy. Commonalities between the events in Korea and Afghanistan are
apparent; President Carter‘s veil of rollback led the Soviets to eventual entrenchment in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Key Words Related to Project
President Carter, Afghanistan, rollback
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Toby
Room
201B
Jones
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
Wars: Remembered or Forgotten
Advisor Email
tobycjones@yahoo.com
Advisor Address
111 Van Dyck Hall, 16 Seminary Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alexandra Savino is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History and Political Science.
Email Address
savino@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
History, Political Science
Humanities
First Name
Vida
O
Last Name
Shirazi
Abstract Title
The 1979 Iranian Revolution: A History to Remember Not to Dismiss
Abstract
In the wake of today‘s revolutions and uprisings in the Middle East questions of American foreign policy in the region is significant. The
bitter sentiments expressed by protesters towards the United States‘ policies have roots of a mistrusted unequal relationship. Iran has
gone through major transformations since the 1979 Revolution; however, its political and economic relationship with the U.S. has
remained in disagreement. Analysis of the political and cultural relationships between Iran and the U.S. before and after the 1979
Revolution sheds lights on the current problem in the Arab world. United States‘ anti democratic coup against the Iranian popular prime
minister in 1953 and its refusal to form a dialogue with the Islamic government are two examples. Outcomes from the disturbed
relationship have recently gone beyond the economic sanctions. The government to reject and respond against demands for social
reforms and political transformations has justified the cause of the U.S.‘s intrusive history of hostile policies against Iran‘s
independence. I will attempt to respond to the following questions: Why is it that Iran and the U.S. have not been able to establish a
relationship over the past decades? What has the impact of this hostile relationship been on the lives of Iranian citizens and their
demands for economic equality, freedom of expression, and the establishment of democracy? How could Iran be used as a learning
experience both for the new revolutions occurring in the Arab world and the U.S. in the process to establish fair political and social
relationships?
Key Words Related to Project
U.S.-- Iran Relationship
Category
Humanities
Room
201B
Time
11- noon
Advisor
Fakhrolmolouk Haghani
Advisor Email
fhaghani@rci.rutgers.edu
Panel Name
Wars: Remembered or Forgotten
Advisor Address
Lucy Stone Hall B-304
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Vida Shirazi is a Junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Economics and Middle Eastern Studies and minoring in African,
Middle Eastern, South Asian Languages and Literatures (AMESALL).
Email Address
vshirazi@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
2012
Major
Humanities
First Name
Felicia
A
Last Name
Siegel
Abstract Title
Development of the Miriam Schapiro Archives on Women Artists
Abstract
The Miriam Schapiro Archives on Women Artists aims to make available the resources regarding women artists and art historians, that
Rutgers University has acquired including papers, collections, documents, and pieces of art. The goal of this project was to complete the
elements of a website which will allow researchers to access necessary information. The final website will include a finding of all sources
available at the Rutgers University Libraries and Special Collections, a timeline of Feminist Art History, and other aspects to be added
later on. I have explored various sources within the archives and libraries, many of which have never been seen by other researchers, and
which allowed us to further develop our knowledge of the history of women in the arts and the Feminist Art Movement. The next step in
this research project is to finalize all aspects of the website and execute it with a webmaster. It will have to be updated to keep track of all
incoming pieces and collections in the future. Rutgers University has a strong background regarding women in the arts and this will now
be made available to the general public.
Key Words Related to Project
art, women, history, archives
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Ferris
Room
Olin
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
olin@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
191 College Avenue, 2nd Floor, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Felicia Siegel is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program majoring in Art History and minoring in French. This
upcoming year she will be writing her Senior Thesis. She plans on attending graduate school after graduation in 2012 to attain a
Doctorate in Art History.
Email Address
fsiegel@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Art History
Humanities
First Name
Scott
Last Name
Siegel
Abstract Title
Israel and American Zionism: Flash Points in the Collapse of the Black-Jewish Alliance.
Abstract
Throughout the history of American minority groups, there has been a special historic alliance between blacks and Jews. Both groups
have identified with one another as victims of slavery, oppression, and persecution and prejudice directed at them by members of the
dominant white groups in society. Many blacks active in the civil rights movement initially were sympathetic to Israel and to JewishAmerican expressions of Zionist support for the Israeli state as a result of the parallels such black civil rights activists could draw to their
own emancipation narrative and also because they sympathized with the Jews, who had been very active in the civil rights movement.
With the rise of Black Nationalism, moderate black leaders, such as Bayard Rustin, continued to express sympathy for Israel and
Zionism; however, most black nationalist groups and many black former activists in the civil rights movement came to identify with
Palestinians as an oppressed people of color and expressed open hostility toward Israel and American Zionism. My conclusion is based
upon a cultural studies approach to the visual and print materials that I have analyzed. I performed a study of both primary sources and
secondary scholarship on black-Jewish relations with respect to Israel and American Zionism from the Civil Rights Era beginning in
1940s to the present as well as a survey of New York Times articles. I also analyzed media such as videos and other visual images such
as cartoons and photographs.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Leslie
Room
Fishbein
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
fishbei@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Scott Siegel is a sophomore in at the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program majoring in Political Sciences and Middle Eastern
Studies and minoring in Economics.
Email Address
siegelsf@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Political Science and Middle Eastern Studies
Humanities
First Name
Georgia
Last Name
Simon
Abstract Title
A Preliminary Investigation into the Prosody of Glossolalia
Abstract
Intonation in glossolalia has never been formally studied. Glossolalia consists of sustained spontaneous utterances that have no complex
meaning. It is practiced in many different contexts, but is well known in certain Christian denominations where it is called ‗speaking in
Tongues‘.
Glossolalia has no lexicon, and so offers a unique opportunity to study phonological restrictions alone, without influence
from morphology or syntax. This study focuses on the intonation patterns in glossolalia from one speaker of American English. It seeks
to identify the speaker‘s intonation tunes and restrictions on prosodic phrasing.
The data consists of 26 recordings of the speaker
producing glossolalia, which were all transcribed into IPA symbols. Praat was used to create pitch tracks (Boersma & Weenink 2011),
which were labeled using the theory of intonation proposed by Beckman (1980) and developed in numerous publications since. I will
argue that an intonation tune of H*+L L% is applied to all intonation phrases. An utterance can consist of several intonation phrases. The
form of intonation phrases is determined by general prosodic restrictions. I will argue that the speaker has a strong tendency towards
obeying default phonological restrictions. For intonation, heads of intonation phrases must bear an H and non-heads must bear an L tone.
This restriction is analogous to work that argues for contextual defaults for lexical tone and prosodic heads (de Lacy 2002). For prosodic
phrasing, I will argue that the speaker also obeys prosodic defaults, following much work in prosodic morphology and phonology
(McCarthy & Prince 1986).
Key Words Related to Project
intonation phonology glossolalia prosody
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Paul
Room
201A
de Lacy
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Aspects of Language on Society
Advisor Email
delacy@rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
18 Seminary Pl.
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Georgia Simon is a Rutgers College senior majoring in Linguistics and minoring in Music. Due to the rarity of linguistic study into
glossolalia, she is also one of world's most knowledgeable researchers on the topic.
Email Address
geosim@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Rutgers College
Class Year
2011
Major
Linguistics
Humanities
First Name
Henry
R
Last Name
Stoll
Abstract Title
Sketches of Elliott Carter
Abstract
MIn 1931, Ruth Crawford-Seeger composed the masterpiece for which she is now most famous: her String Quartet. Two decades later,
while in the Arizona desert, Elliott Carter began composing his revolutionary String Quartet No. 1. The finished product would come to
mark a milestone in Carter‘s musical career: the finding of his compositional voice. However, this is also a work in which Carter sought
to emulate the dissonant music that he admired. According to Carter, Crawford‘s String Quartet was one of the main influences. This
research attempts to designate the influence of Crawford-Seeger‘s String Quartet (in particular the second movement) as integral to the
work of the young composer. Such a finding could result in the reevaluation of Carter‘s work and help glean the influence of Ruth
Crawford-Seeger as a pioneer in the compositional school of ultramodernism. To realize this, sketches of Carter‘s String Quartet No. 1
will be carefully analyzed and catalogued for juxtaposition with Crawford‘s work. In addition, musicological research will be conducted
exploring the relationship between these two great innovators. The results will elucidate the otherwise overlooked influence of CrawfordSeeger on her younger contemporary, Elliott Carter, and thus redefine her role in the progression of the ultramodernist school of
composition. Furthermore, this research will help motivate new discoveries and insights into the String Quartet No. 1 of Elliott Carter.
Key Words Related to Project
french, music, song, Hugo
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Judith
Room
Nicosia
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
civitano@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
MMB 120
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Henry Stoll is a sophomore in the Mason Gross School of the Arts and SAS Honors program majoring in violin performance and
minoring in French. In addition to performing, he hopes to pursue musicology in his graduate studies.
Email Address
henhen@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Mason Gross
Class Year
2013
Major
Violin - Performance
Humanities
First Name
Elizabeth M
Last Name
Taylor
Abstract Title
French Authors at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition
Abstract
The Women‘s Library at the 1893 World‘s Columbian Exposition
At the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, a
collection of both national and international books written by women were housed in the Women's Library, an exhibit created for the
purpose of representing women's global achievements. While the American titles in the women's library have been extensively
researched, the foreign titles, titles sent by delegations from 21 participating countries, have not been as well researched. Our project
seeks to explore and analyze these foreign titles, sent from such countries as Britain, France, and Germany (among many others) in order
to more fully understand the breadth of women's achievement in the areas of education, medicine, science, technology, and the
professions and how these achievements were symbolically represented in the women's library itself. Using online library catalogs, we
identified the foreign titles and their bibliographic information and categorized the titles according to author, genre, subject matter, and
time period. We then examined collected data to find any trends. Using the data we collect, we hope to better understand the perception
of the woman‘s role as it is portrayed in the library books and how the books were displayed in the library. Thus far, we have determined
that a large number of the books in the Women‘s Library are non-canonical, written by contemporary authors about a range of women‘s
related interests and issues, often focused on women‘s place in the home. This is important in understanding how women of the day
perceived their own accomplishments and role in society.
Key Words Related to Project
Women's Library World's Columbian Exposition
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Marija
Room
Dalbello
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
marija.dalbello@gmail.com
Advisor Address
CIL-308
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Elizabeth Taylor is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Economics.
Email Address
elizt@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Economics
Humanities
First Name
Kevin
P
Last Name
Tobia
Abstract Title
Moral Intuitions in Philosophers and Non-Philosophers
Abstract
My research project explores whether framing effects influence the intuitions of philosophers and non-philosophers. A framing effect is a
cognitive bias in which a person‘s judgment about a case is influenced by the way the case is presented. Previous research has determined
that philosophers‘ intuitions are subject to some psychological effects, namely order effects, and that ordinary people‘s intuitions are
subject to framing effects, but there is no data on whether or not philosophers‘ intuitions are stable or malleable in the face of framing
effects. This research investigates whether philosophers‘ expertise protects their intuitions from framing effects when making moral
judgments. Both professional philosophers and non-philosophers (Rutgers undergraduates) completed survey questionnaires about
ethical problems, answering questions about the moral permissibility of proposed actions in the stories.
Key Words Related to Project
moral intuitions, framing effects
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Stephen
Room
202A
Time
2- 3 p.m.
Panel Name
Awareness and Intuition
Advisor Email
Stich
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kevin Tobia is a junior in the School of Arts in Sciences majoring in Philosophy, Mathematics, and Cognitive Science.
Email Address
ktobia@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Philosophy, Cognitive Science, Math
Humanities
First Name
Nicholas P
Last Name
Triozzi
Abstract Title
Energetic Costs of Mastication and Model Hominin Food Processing Behaviors
Abstract
The origin of the human lineage has been associated with a range of behavioral and anatomical adaptations. It has been argued that one
such behavioral adaptation, the use of simple stone tools, permitted early hominins to efficiently exploit a more diverse range of food
sources. This study focuses on quantifying the energetic demands of different food processing behaviors including mastication, stone
tool assisted nut-cracking, and butchery with Oldowan flake tools. Indirect calorimetry was used to measure the energy expended during
mastication, pounding macadamia nuts, and cutting goat meat with Oldowan flake tools. Twenty-five volunteer subjects (college
students aged 18 to 25) participated in the indirect calorimetry trials and increases in their metabolic rate during experimental tasks were
recorded. Prior work has only touched on the metabolic costs of chewing. Here we report some of the first actualistic measurements
concerning energy expenditures associated with chewing and likely hominin tool assisted food processing. These data can be used to
refine models of early hominin foraging.
Key Words Related to Project
stone tools, diet, human evolution
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Robert
Room
Scott
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
robertsc@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
32 Bishop Street
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Nicholas Triozzi is a senior majoring in Evolutionary Anthropology. His study is part of a senior honors thesis for anthropology. His
interests are paleoanthropology, sedimentology, primate archaeology, paleoecology, and the evolution of modern human reproductive
systems. He plans on attending graduate school in 2012 to focus on one of these areas.
Email Address
ntriozzi@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Evolutionary Anthropology
Humanities
First Name
Jessica
L
Last Name
Urie
Abstract Title
Pirates in the Caribbean (17th and 18th century)
Abstract
Images of the Pirate in the 17th Century Caribbean
The image of the 17th century pirate complicates the analysis of the development
of nationalism in the insular Caribbean. The area was the center of imperial competition among several European powers, and the pirate,
loosely defined as anyone who attacked the colonial possessions of another empire, was a central figure of the political arena. Definitions
of piracy tended to differ between Spanish, English, and French accounts during the century, assigning pirates some imperial identity;
however, pirates are often depicted as free from any political allegiance. The purpose of this project was to determine the role of the
pirate in the colonial Caribbean context. To determine the existing definition of pirates during the 17th century, we examined Spanish,
French, and English dictionaries that were published between 1670 and 1720 and primary texts that were written by or about pirates
during the same time period. In these texts, there is no indication that most of the pirates of the time had any kind of political intention
that could be linked to a particular state. However, it appears they were simply living outside of the reigning political regimes and
offering their services to the best paying monarch. This research traces the definition of piracy past the Spanish definition, providing a
better understanding of pirates and their effect on the political atmosphere of the colonial Caribbean.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Yolanda
Room
Martinez-San Mig
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
yolamsm@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jessica Urie is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences. She is pursuing majors in English and History.
Email Address
xcbkworm@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
English, History
Humanities
First Name
Jaskarn
Last Name
Virk
Abstract Title
Development of a Health System in the City of Elyria, Ohio
Abstract
I plan to do research on the city of Elyria, Ohio. As I progressed through my research with Professor Judith Friedman, I realized that I
developed an interest for the creation of the health system in this city. I thought to myself all the different ways people contributed to the
formation of this system. It lead to doing research on the plumbing system, sanitation department, food inspectors etc. I began to
accumulate all these different aspects of the health system. I realized that it was many different people helping out and contributing in
different ways.
Key Words Related to Project
Health, Development
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Judith
Room
Friedman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
simcar@eden.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jaskarn Virk is a sophomore at Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Biological Sciences and minoring in Psychology. He has
worked on "Development of a Health System in the city of Elyria, Ohio."
Email Address
virk@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2013
Major
Humanities
First Name
John
C
Last Name
Winters
Abstract Title
The Political Development of Alexander Hamilton in the Years 1782-1787
Abstract
Alexander Hamilton‘s mature political philosophy has been well researched by historians and biographers. Many have focused on his
most important contributions to the infant United States: the Federalist, his defense of the new Constitution at the Poughkeepsie ratifying
convention, and his time as Secretary of the Treasury under President Washington. Despite the vast amount of Hamiltonian scholarship
available on these topics, little attention has been given to the years which most influenced his political development, 1782-1787. These
years encompassed the time after he left the military and entered public office, a period which cultivated his opposition to the
fundamental structure of the Articles of Confederation. His association with key members of the political elite, and his frustrating
experiences under the Articles produced a man who was dedicated to the expansion of the federal government and the reduction of state
power. This project explains the influential Founding Father‘s political origins, an important time in the life of a man who, even today,
influences American political science and also sparks political discourse along modern party lines.
Key Words Related to Project
Hamilton, Federalist, Politician, Frustration, Confederation
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Camilla
Room
201B
Townsend
Time
10- 11 a.m.
Panel Name
National Identity and Ownership of the Past
Advisor Email
ctownsend@history.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
John Winters is a Senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History.
Email Address
wintersj@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
History
Humanities
First Name
Andrew H
Last Name
Yuen
Abstract Title
Application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to a Clinically Depressed Asian Teenager
Abstract
Trends have shown that Asian Americans underutilize mental health resources due to the incompatibility of traditional Asian culture and
Western-style therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is moderately effective at treating Asian clients despite this issue, and
therefore is considered to be flexible enough to adapt to multiple cultures. The current study made use of an intensive observational,
multiple baseline single case design to determine how one therapist adapted CBT to treat anxiety and depression with a secondgeneration Asian American 15-year-old teen. Youth anxiety, depression, and functional impairment were recorded weekly by parent and
youth, weekly therapy sessions were video-recorded, and therapists wrote narrative notes tracking content and goals of therapy sessions
(including obstacles and challenges). Initial observation suggested the teen client possesses an above age-appropriate vocabulary that
enables effective communication of her feelings to the therapist, and in fact, initiated therapy by requesting it from her parents. These
aspects are atypical from typical Asian clients described in the literature. However, the teen‘s refusal to share her emotions and problems
with her parents was evidence of typical intergenerational conflict in Asian American clients. Final analysis will evaluate overall
treatment outcomes for this case and also use multiple baseline analysis to determine whether, and in what ways, culturally relevant
variables impacted treatment success. Special attention will be paid to degree to which therapist tried to adapt CBT to match these
culturally-relevant needs. Discussion will focus on the flexibility of CBT to match cultural variation and implications for therapy in
diverse populations
Key Words Related to Project
Depression, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Asian American client, Teenager
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Brian
Room
Chu
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
BrianChu@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Andrew Yuen is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program planning a major in Psychology and minor in both
Sociology and Chinese. In the future, he hopes to continue to explore ways to make Cognitive Behavioral Therapy compatible with Asian
American clients.
Email Address
ayuen04@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
English
Humanities
First Name
Dara
A
Last Name
Zagorski
Abstract Title
The Visible Enemy: Meditations on War and the Enemy
Abstract
My senior thesis analyzes three particular photographs from the Vietnam War: Malcolm Browne‘s ―The Self-Immolation,‖ Eddie Adam‘s
―The Saigon Execution,‖ and Nick Ut‘s ―The Napalm Girl.‖ The photographs were studied to research if war photography has the ability
to counter-act the influence of dehumanization in war. Research was conducted to view the background of each photograph and it was
determined that the American public misinterpreted the message of the photos. Additionally, My Lai served as a background example of
the danger of not having a journalist present during war.
Key Words Related to Project
Journalism in the Vietnam War
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Gardner
Room
201B
Lloyd
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
Wars: Remembered or Forgotten
Advisor Email
lgardner79@gmail.com
Advisor Address
Van Dyck office, College Avenue
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Dara Zagorski is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences. She is majoring in Journalism and Media Studies, in addition to History
and is graduating in May 2011.
Email Address
dzagorsk@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Journalism & History
Humanities
First Name
Adrian
Last Name
Zareba
Abstract Title
An Analysis of Electrum Coinage in Ancient Greece
Abstract
I am currently writing an honors thesis in History with Professor of Classics and Ancient History, Thomas J. Figueira. My research
project is a quantitative analysis of electrum in ancient Greek coinage. Electrum is a natural alloy of gold, silver, and copper used by the
Greeks for their first coins. In particular, I am analyzing a hoard of Greek coins first studied by the German historian Fredrich
Bodenstedt. I will complete my thesis in the spring, and it will include a summary of the current state of scholarship on ancient electrum
and also present the results of my quantitative study.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Thomas
Room
Figueira
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
figueira@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Adrian Zareba is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in History/Political Science and Economics.
Email Address
zareba@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
History/Political Science and Economics
Humanities
First Name
Christopher V
Last Name
Zawistowski
Abstract Title
"The Amazing Touch": Theodore Roosevelt and Personality Politics in the 1912 Presidential Election
Abstract
For decades scholars have offered simple explanations for Theodore Roosevelt‘s loss in the Presidential Election of 1912. With the
Republican vote split between Roosevelt and President William Howard Taft, the road was paved for the Democrat Woodrow Wilson to
take the White House. Yet while there is certainly truth in this conclusion, it ignores Roosevelt‘s legendary personality trait that proved to
be his greatest asset and liability in 1912: his ―amazing touch.‖ ―The amazing touch,‖ as the trait was dubbed by one Roosevelt follower,
helped Roosevelt to connect with voters, politicians and most importantly, the reporters who followed him on the campaign trail, luring
them into supporting his cause. Combined with a shift towards more objective news coverage, my examination of reporter‘s memoirs,
newspaper articles and archives of Progressive Party leaders shows the reporters who followed Roosevelt not only wrote favorably of the
Progressive Party cause but more importantly covered TR‘s pseudo-events and personal crowd interactions, spreading the ―amazing
touch‖ to all corners of the country. But this had mixed results for Roosevelt for while the personality-based coverage may have helped
him overcome the traditional obstacles of a third party candidacy, it also fed into his critics‘ arguments that Roosevelt was egotistical in
seeking an unprecedented third term, which may have cost him a trip back to the White House. Studying Roosevelt‘s ―amazing touch‖
and resultant press coverage helps uncover the powers and limitations of personality politics and how candidates would handle the press
in future Presidential campaigns.
Key Words Related to Project
Theodore Roosevelt, Elections, Campaign, President
Category
Humanities
Advisor
Ann
Room
Fabian
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Email
afabian@rci.rutgers.edu
Advisor Address
Rutgers Center for Historical Analysis 88 College Ave. New Brunswick NJ, 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Chris Zawistowski is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in History and Journalism and Media Studies.
Currently an intern with CBS News, Zawistowski will pursue a career in journalism after graduation.
Email Address
czawie@gmail.com
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SCI/SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Journalism and Media Studies/History
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Rayna
M
Last Name
Addabbo
Abstract Title
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Study of Brittle Bone Disease
Abstract
Type I collagen is important for providing structural support to tissue in bones. The small amino acid glycine occurs every third residue
in collagen's sequence and is able to fit within the center of collagen's triple helix. When glycine is replaced by another amino acid, a
person develops brittle bone disease. Depending on factors including the location of the mutation, the identity of the amino acid replacing
glycine and the local sequence surrounding the mutation, the glycine missense mutation can either result in a non-lethal or lethal
phenotype of the disease. The cleavage of collagen by metalloproteinases is an important biological process that allows old and
ineffective collagen to be replaced by new collagen molecules. Metalloproteinases have a high specificity towards a particular amino acid
sequence approximately three-quarters from the N-terminus, and do not cleave other parts of collagen similar in sequence. The peptide
Ac-(GPO)4-GPL-GIA-APO-GAR-(GPO)5-CoNH2 has been designed with a glycine to alanine missense mutation incorporated into a
sequence unique from, but similar to the sequence at which metalloproteinases cleave collagen type I. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
experiments are being performed to correlate structural features of this peptide to its enzymatic activity with metalloproteinases.
Key Words Related to Project
Collagen, Brittle Bone Disease, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jean
Advisor Email
jbaum@rci.rutgers.edu
Baum
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Rayna Addabbo is a senior School of Arts and Sciences student majoring in chemistry and minoring in music.
Email Address
raynaa@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Chemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Yuliya
S
Last Name
Afinogenova
Abstract Title
Development of a Bacterial Expression System for Improved Recovery of Soluble Human Proteins
Abstract
There are a number of important human proteins that cannot be expressed at sufficient levels or remain soluble using the conventional
bacterial pET vector system. However, expression of these proteins in a soluble and nontoxic form is essential for conducting structural
and functional studies. Recently, our laboratory has developed the pCold-PST (Protein S Technology) expression system. The pColdPST vector contains two tandemly-repeated N-terminal domains of Protein S (a major spore coat protein of Myxococcus xanthus). These
domains (referred to as PrS2 tags) often enable high levels of human protein expression, increase protein solubility and facilitate quick
and easy purification through calcium-dependent association of the PrS2 tag with myxospores. Subsequent cleavage of the PrS2 tag does
not typically decrease solubility of the target protein. In our study, we tested the attributes of the new technology compared to other
conventional bacterial purification systems and have further refined our pCold-PST expression system with the ultimate goal of
subjecting potential protein candidates for NMR structural analysis as well as their functional studies. We have also began developing a
new PSTI technology that combines our Protein S tag with the principles of the evolved split inteins of DnaE to further enhance the
structural studies of various proteins.
Key Words Related to Project
Protein S Technology, PrS2 Tag, Protein Expression System
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Masayori
Advisor Email
inouye@umdnj.edu
Inouye
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Yuliya Afinogenova is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences, double majoring in Molecular Biology as well as Economics and
minoring in Chemistry and Mathematics. She began her work in the lab during her freshman year and thus far had the honor of
presenting her results at Aresty as well as the National American Society for Microbiology Conference in San Diego, CA. For her work,
she was also awarded the 2010 Goldwater Fellowship.
Email Address
yafinoge@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
MBB, Economics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Monal
R
Last Name
Agrawal
Abstract Title
Behavior of Nanofluid Droplets at the Latent Frost Point
Abstract
Electronic devices like computers are widely used for various applications and it has become extremely difficult as well as important to
control the heat that these devices release. When the integrated circuits in these devices over-heat they disrupt the computational capacity
due to increased internal resistance. There are many commercial cooling devices like fans and radiators available to solve this problem,
but these are too massive and are not as effective in heat absorbance. This research will focus on the spray cooling technology which is
not massive at all and can be easily used to cool down even compact electronic devices. This technology uses latent heat of evaporation
to absorb large amounts of heat from the surface of a material. A part of this project is to analyze the behavior of individual droplets as
they collide on high temperature surfaces. The effects of various concentration and sizes of Nano-fluid droplets on varying temperature
surfaces is studied. The latent frost point behavior of the droplets is the focus. This study will reveal limitations with regards to
temperature and droplet sizes that can affect an efficient heat transfer from the hot surface to the atmosphere. An array of the most
suitable droplets can be incorporated in a spray that can be used for cooling.
Key Words Related to Project
Spray Cooling Droplets Latent Frost Temperature
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Francisco
Advisor Email
diez@jove.rutgers.edu
Diez
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Room B-236, Engineering Building, Busch Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Monal Agrawal is a junior at the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
Email Address
monal23@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Engineering, Rutg 2012
Major
Mechanical And Aerospace Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Lorilei
M
Last Name
Alley
Abstract Title
Tracking Objects and Tracking Our Eyes During Disrupted Viewing
Abstract
We are studying how people track multiple objects under conditions of disrupted viewing, such as when a person blinks their eyes, or an
object blocks their view. We extend the work of Keane and Pylyshyn (2006) who examined whether the visual system records the
position or trajectory of tracked objects. Observers tracked 4 of 8 independently moving items for 5 seconds. They were asked to blink
their eyes when a brief tone was presented midway into each trial. The eye blinks triggered the disappearance of all items for up to 1
second with a mask that immediately followed the eye-blinks. During the disappearance period, we compared two conditions: objects
remained stationary and reappeared where they had disappeared, or objects continued along their trajectory and were proportionally
displaced upon re-appearance. Better tracking occurred on the trials where items halted, suggesting the visual system refers to past
positions to guide where tracked items may reappear. We will report a gaze-to-item analysis of eye-movements and two dominant
patterns: (1) a target centroid strategy where the gaze tends to follow the average geometric center of the targets, and (2) frequent shifts of
the gaze from target to target, sometimes due to item crowding but often spontaneous. Despite the frequent switching and the
interruptions to tracking, eyes return remarkably close to items that were tracked just prior to their disappearance. This suggests the eyemovement system maintains a memory of prior object position to help maintain links to tracked objects.
Key Words Related to Project
"Multiple Object Tracking", "Eye Movements", "Attention", "Visual Behavior"
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Zenon
Advisor Email
zenon@ruccs.rutgers.edu
Pylyshyn
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 FRELINGHUYSEN ROAD, Piscataway, NJ, 08854-8020.
Other Students Involved
Veena Rathakrishnan, Courtney Harman
Presenter Biography
Lorilei Alley is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences, double majoring in Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology. Our
research team has been accepted to present our findings at the 2011 Vision Sciences Society Symposium in Naples, Florida, May 6th11th. Veena Rathakrishnan is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences Honor Program, majoring in Public Health and Computer
Science and minoring in French. Our research team has been accepted to present our findings at the 2011 Vision Sciences Society
Symposium in Naples, Florida, May 6th-11th. Courtney Harman is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences. She is a Psychology
major and Mathematics minor. Courtney is also part of Douglass Residential College, and intends to further her education by getting a
Masters in Forensic Psychology from Marymount University. Our research team has been accepted to present our findings at the 2011
Email Address
lalley@eden.rutgers.edu
Video Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Cognitive Neuroscience, Psychology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Nicholas
Last Name
Apostolopoulos
Abstract Title
Investigation of Antisense Transcription Regulating Gene Expression in Yeast
Abstract
Transcriptome studies have revealed a large number of non-coding RNA‘s (ncRNAs) that overlap coding genes. Some of these ncRNAs
regulate the expression of coding genes. One example is the meiosis-specific IME4 gene in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Expression of a
non-coding antisense transcript, RME2, prevents IME4 expression in haploid cells. Transcription of RME2 across the IME4 promoter
region is not sufficient for repression, suggesting a novel mechanism for transcriptional regulation. Mutational analyses have shown a
region within the IME4 open reading frame (ORF) that functions to block full-length transcription, but not initiation. A similar model has
also been observed for the meiosis-specific ZIP2 gene. In the first part of my presentation, I further define through mutational analysis
the regions within the IME4 and ZIP2 ORFs that are required for antisense-mediated repression. Using high throughput SOLiD, we
identified other genes in S. cerevisiae that are regulated in a manner similar to IME4. In the second part of my presentation, I describe
experiments to develop a phenotypic assay for HPF1, another gene with an antisense transcript that is differentially regulated in haploid
and diploid cells. The third part of this presentation focuses developing a genetic screen to identify other factors required for antisensemediated repression. I show after a series of experiments that an ime4::URA3 construct is not a viable marker for creating a genetic
assay. My results suggest that antisense mediated repression is a conserved mechanism to in yeast, which may help account for the many
uncharacterized roles that nc-RNA‘s may play in yeast.
Key Words Related to Project
I would like to present BOTH a poster and do an oral presentation
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Andrew
Advisor Email
vershon@waksman.rutgers.edu
Vershon
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Waksman Institute of Microbiology, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway NJ
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Nicholas Apostolopoulos is a senior in the SAS Honors Program majoring in Molecular Biology & Biochemistry minoring in Economics
and Chemistry. He recently defended his Honors Thesis after doing published research in Dr. Vershon's laboratory since freshman year.
He served as the President of the RU Cycling Team, MBB Society, and as a FIGs Instructor and member of Cap & Skull. Next year he
will be working in Dr. Wu's lab at HMS in Boston.
Email Address
napostol@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Carly
Last Name
Aulicky
Abstract Title
Ecology of Black Fly Larvae: An Examination of Microhabitat Preference and Attachment Mechanisms
Abstract
Habitat preference and attachment of black fly larvae. Carly Aulicky and M.V.K. Sukhdeo, Rutgers University.
Colonization of
artificial substrates by black fly larvae was investigated in Capoolong Creek, a tributary of the South Branch of the Raritan River in New
Jersey. Paired substrates (n=6) represented vegetated versus stone substrates, and were examined three times a week for 12 weeks to
determine patterns of colonization by black fly larvae. Depth and water velocity were monitored at each site to determine factors present
during larvae colonization. Larvae demonstrated a significant preference for vegetated substrates over stone substrates (p<0.05). The gut
fullness (ratio of full to empty gut) was similar on both substrate types, suggesting that feeding rates did not differ. Our current working
hypothesis is that larvae prefer to colonize vegetated substrate because it is easier to attach to vegetated surfaces. An examination of
larvae salivatory glands using histology and microdissection is underway to determine if less silk is used in attachment to vegetation
when compared to stone substrates. [supported by the Hunterdon County Mosquito and Vector Control Commission]
Key Words Related to Project
Ecology, black fly, artificial substrate, attachment
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Michael
Advisor Email
sukhdeo@aesop.rutgers.edu
Sukhdeo
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Bartlett Hall 213A, 84 Lipman Dr, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Carly Aulicky is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources
and pursuing an Environmental Geomatics Certificate. Carly has worked with Dr. Michael Sukhdeo for two years on the design and
execution of her research on larval black flies. She has presented her research at the Ninth Annual North American Black Fly Association
Meeting in the Mike Spironello Award competition.
Email Address
caulicky@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Winifred
Last Name
Awa
Abstract Title
Isolation and Characterization of Triclosan-degrading Bacteria
Abstract
Triclosan, (5-chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)-phenol), is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent. The primary routes for triclosan to enter
the environment after use are through discharge of effluent from wastewater treatment plants and disposal of sludge on land. The aim of
our research was to isolate and characterize bacteria capable of utilizing triclosan as a sole carbon source from enrichment cultures
inoculated with sediment from the Hackensack River and anaerobic digester sludge from the Edward P. Decker Secondary Wastewater
Treatment Facility both of which are in New Jersey. Isolates that were identified as Pseudomonas sp., Achromobacter sp. and Citrobacter
sp. were subjected to similar experimental set ups to test for triclosan degradation capabilities. Chloride production, a byproduct of
triclosan degradation, was analyzed in liquid media as an indicator of degradation. Results suggest that Pseudomonas sp,
Achromobacter sp and Citrobacter sp were capable of degrading triclosan due to the presence of growth on minimal salts agar plates
supplemented with triclosan. Isolates that were capable of degrading triclosan on agar plates were successfully obtained from anaerobic
digester but not from standard chlorine sediments. The 16S rRNA gene of one such isolate was analyzed and was identical to the
Pseudomonas sp. isolate. Chloride production was observed in both types of inocula. In the next step of this research, we intend to
compare triclosan degradation in Pseudomonas sp., Achromobacter sp., and Citrobacter sp., by examining cell growth and the
corresponding production of chloride over time.
Key Words Related to Project
triclosan, degradation,activated sludge, enrichment culture
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lily
Advisor Email
lyoung@aesop.rutgers.edu
Young
Advisor Address
SEBS - Environmental Science
Time
Panel Name
59 Dudley Road, Rm 312
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Winifred Awa is a School of Arts and Sciences senior majoring in Biological Sciences. She wishes to pursue a career in microbiology
research.
Email Address
winawauk@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Biological Sciences
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Ronidell
Last Name
Baluyot
Abstract Title
Paleoenvironmental Reconstruction of a Pleistocene Landscape, Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania
Abstract
Olduvai basin has a 2 million year paleontological and archaeological record that includes four hominin species. The basin was infilled
with volcanic sediments from the Ngorongoro Volcanoes to the east and rivers from the Serengeti Plain to the west. This paper aims to
characterize sedimentary records of Bed I, to better understand the past environment at a site (FLK) that is rich in archeology (vertebrate
fossils, including hominins, invertebrate fossils and artifacts). The sediments are important to study because they can give insight to the
paleolandscape and paleoclimate at a time when it was known to be very dry and two hominin species lived there (~1.8 Ma). The
sediments were sampled from a 3 meter section representing ~20,000 years of history and is composed of three different mineral
compositions which require different methods of analysis to determine their origin. The carbonates were analyzed using stable isotope
geochemistry, the volcanics (tephras) were studied on the electron microprobe to determine the mineralogy and the claystones analyzed
by X-ray diffraction to determine the mineralogy of the clay. The results of analyzes of the three sediment types will be synthesized to
explain the change in environment of deposition through time and give insight to what type of environment the early hominins lived in
and how they were able to thrive during an arid period of time.
Key Words Related to Project
Olduvai Gorge, Paleoclimate, Paleoenvironment, Sediment
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Gail
Advisor Email
gmashley@rci.rutgers.edu
Ashley
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Department of Geological Sciences, Wright Geological Laboratory, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 088
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ronidell Baluyot is a School of Arts & Sciences senior. He will be graduating with a major in the field of Geology. His main interest is to
study sediments within a specific area to gain insight and reconstruct what the past environment was in that area (paleoenvironment).
Email Address
rbaluyot@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Geology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Riju
Last Name
Banerjee
Abstract Title
Protein Dynamics in C. elegans
Abstract
J-domain proteins have been studied extensively in many different organisms and their relative functions have been characterized. In
previous studies, we have shown that RME-8, a DNAJ-domain protein, localizes on the early endosome in C. elegans and associates with
the retromer component SNX-1. Specifically, this study focuses on identifying the binding regions between SNX-1 and RME-8 via the
Yeast Two-Hybrid system, and confirming said binding via a GST-pulldown assay. Hrs – a key component in the lysosomal degradative
pathway – has also been shown to associate with SNX-1. Thus we focused on narrowing down the binding regions between SNX-1 and
HGRS-1 (C.elegans Hrs ortholog) and confirming the binding result via GST-pulldown. Future work will include further narrowing
down of the binding domains as well as analyzing the clathrin dynamics regulated through RME-8/ SNX-1/HGRS-1 interaction.
Endocytic proteins can also change localization based on a stimulus presented to the organism. However, little is known about CUA-1
(Menkes copper transporter homolog) and FPN-1.1 (one of three Ferropotin homologs in C. elegans) – proteins that have been found to
localize to the C. elegans epithelial cells. This study also focused on creating strains of worms that expressed these proteins fused to a
GFP marker. We plan to use different stimuli to see how the subcellular localization of the proteins change in the worm epithelium in
response to changes in metal ion concentration.
Key Words Related to Project
C. elegans, Retrograde, Trafficking, Endosome
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Barth
Advisor Email
grant@biology.rutgers.edu
Grant
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Nelson Biological Laboratories A307, Busch Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Riju Banerjee is a senior at the School of Arts and sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and Psychology.
Email Address
rbanerji@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
CBN, Psychology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Corinne S
Last Name
Baresich
Abstract Title
Actively Controllable Thermal Conductivity of Aligned Carbon Nanofluids
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes, with their high thermal conductivity of 1000 W/m*K, have been shown to increase the thermal conductivity of the
base fluid in which they are suspended. They can also be functionalized to respond to external fields, allowing us to control their
orientation. These unique characteristics led us to believe that the addition of functionalized carbon nanotubes to a solution would make
it possible to rapidly and reversibly manipulate the effective properties of that fluid. Specifically, we proposed to further increase and
actively control the effective thermal conductivity of suspensions by aligning the carbon nanotubes via an external magnetic field. We
used Effective Medium Theory to determine predicted changes in effective thermal conductivity for three different orientations of carbon
nanotubes: unaligned, aligned perpendicular, and aligned parallel to the measurement axis. The first step in conducting the experiment
entailed implementing a modified 3 Omega method to accurately measure the thermal conductivity of fluids. Next, we designed an
experimental set up with an external magnetic field to align the majority of nanotubes in the fluid, and confirmed alignment through laser
polarimetry experiments. Running the 3 Omega test for randomly dispersed nanofluids yielded results that agreed well with the
theoretical predictions. Once we applied a perpendicular magnetic field to this suspension, we saw a decrease in thermal conductivity
within the predicted range. Results for the parallel aligned nanotubes are inconclusive at this time; however, overall, preliminary results
show changes in effective thermal conductivity that are consistent with the predictions of Effective Medium Theory.
Key Words Related to Project
carbon nanotubes, thermal conductivity, 3 omega method
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
201A
Advisor
Jerry
Advisor Email
jshan@jove.rutgers.edu
Shan
Time
2- 3 p.m.
Panel Name
Perspectives in Natural and Physical Science
Advisor Address
98 Brett Road Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Corinne Baresich is a senior at the School of Engineering, majoring in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Aerospace.
Email Address
cbaresic@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
Rutgers School of Engineeri 2011
Major
Mechanical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Lauren
Last Name
Barron
Abstract Title
Influence of Nursing on Apoptotic Related Protein Expression in the Neonatal Porcine Small Intestine
Abstract
Colostrum, or first milk, contains bioactive factors that affect small intestine development, including the duodenum. Since the small
intestine continues to develop after birth an increase or decrease in programmed cell death, known as apoptosis, can be used to study
cellular turnover. Apoptotic markers important for cellular turnover are present in the pig duodenum early in neonatal life. In addition,
studies show the rate of intestinal cell turnover is delayed in pigs fed a commercial milk replacer when compared to pigs allowed to
nurse. However, whether anti-apoptotic BCL2 or pro-apoptotic BAX are expressed in the pig duodenum at birth (postnatal [PND] 0) or
are influenced by nursing has not been reported. Objectives of this research were to 1) examine the effects of age on BCL2 and BAX
protein expression in the developing porcine duodenum; 2) investigate the effects of nursing versus milk replacer ingestion from birth on
BCL2 and BAX expression in the porcine duodenum at PND 2. Immunoblotting revealed that duodenal BCL2 and BAX were
undetectable at PND 0, prior to nursing. However, both proteins were detected on PND 2 in duodenal tissue of male pigs that nursed
from birth but were undetectable in males fed milk replacer over the same period. Results indicate that nursing is important to support
normal patterns of BCL2 and BAX protein expression in the neonatal porcine duodenum. Exposure to milk-borne factors alters
expression of neonatal duodenum proteins involved in cell turnover which may be important for maturation of the porcine small intestine.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Carol
Advisor Email
bagnell@aesop.rutgers.edu
Bagnell
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
SEBS - Animal Science 84 Lipman Drive, Rm 106 New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8525
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Lauren Barron is a Senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Animal Science with the option of PreVeterinary Science and Research.
Email Address
labarron@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
Environmental and Biologic 2011
Major
Animal Science
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Carlos
M
Last Name
Bledt
Abstract Title
Optical Dielectric Thin Film Design in Hollow Glass Waveguides for Infrared Laser Delivery & Spectroscopy Applications
Abstract
Developed by J.A. Harrington and his Specialty Fiber Optics Group at Rutgers University, Hollow Glass Waveguides (HGWs) have
proven successful for the low-loss propagation of infrared electromagnetic radiation where traditional solid core silica fibers widely used
in telecommunications cannot be used. Light propagation properties in HGWs depend not on total internal reflection as in solid core
fibers, but rather on enhanced, high reflectivity mechanisms resulting from the careful optical design of a combination of metallic
reflective and dielectric thin films whose optical response is determined by the optical thin film properties of the selected material thin
film to be used, the optical thickness of said thin film, and the predetermined HGW dimensionality. Research has focused on the
development of diverse dielectric thin film designs in HGWs with the primary purpose of further enhancing reflectivity, thus lowering the
optical attenuation of the waveguide as determined both theoretically and experimentally. The present work focuses on the underlying
dielectric thin film theory as it applies to HGWs along with experimental data involving the study of the functionality of as deposited
silver halide, group II – VI binary heavy metal sulfide, and currently under development group II – VI binary selenide optical grade
dielectric thin films. Multi-dielectric layer designs in HGWs for enhanced reflectivity as well as manufacturing feasibility of said designs
will be discussed. Infrared spectroscopy, optical attenuation, and spatial power output density distribution measurements will be included
to determine functionality as well as advantages and disadvantages of presented dielectric thin film designs in HGWs.
Key Words Related to Project
Fiber Optics, Thin Films, Infrared Spectroscopy, Optical Engineering
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
James
Advisor Email
jaharrin@rutgers.edu
Harrington
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
607 Taylor Road Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Carlos M. Bledt is currently a third year undergraduate student at the School of Engineering pursuing a B.S. degree in Materials Science
& Engineering with a concentration in Optical & Photonic Materials. Currently working at the Rutgers Specialty Fiber Optics Laboratory
under Dr. James A. Harrington. His research work has focused on the research and development of thin film coated hollow glass
waveguides for infrared electromagnetic radiation propagation in a wide range of applications.
Email Address
cmbledt@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Materials Science & Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Aimee
R
Last Name
Blenner
Abstract Title
Using Remote Sensing to Track Changes in Greenland's Ice Sheet
Abstract
Title: Where are Greenland‘s glaciers going?
Abstract
Because of the earth‘s changing climate, quantifying the ice and water
losses of Greenland is very important. Losses in the mass of the ice sheet could greatly affect the state of the world‘s oceans, and in turn
affect weather patterns and coastal flooding. While Greenland‘s ice sheet surface melting has increased in the last decades, it is unclear
the rate at which this is occurring, and how much melt water reaches the ocean. In this project, the potential for using remotely sensed
data to quantify meltwater losses through river channels is examined by relating meltwater losses to changes in the inundated area of
braided rivers. The inundated areas of braided rivers draining the Greenland‘s ice sheet over time are determined using remotely sensed
images. All cloud free Landsat 7 satellite images from the melting season of 2009 were used in this study. The images were classified
with supervised classification to identify land surface classes such as inundated river area. These classifications were then analyzed for
accuracy using geometric and radiometric corrections, and the images were assembled in a Geographic Information System (GIS) to
examine change in inundated river area over time. Comparison of changes of inundated area with in situ measurements of melt water
losses shows the suitability of using remote sensing as a technique for quantifying Greenland melt water losses through river channels.
This technique could be applied to other areas of Greenland where no in situ observations are available, and provide a better
understanding of Greenland meltwater losses to the ocean.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Asa
Advisor Email
arennerm@rci.rutgers.edu
Rennermalm
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Aimee Blenner is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Communication and Information, pursuing majors in
Geography and Communication.
Email Address
ablenner@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2012
Major
Geography And Communication
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Marcio David
Last Name
Bocelli
Abstract Title
Structural Determination of Molecule 6-O-acetylswietephragmin E by X-rays Diffraction
Abstract
The use of X-ray diffraction for the characterization of molecules for different types of applications, is an important tool for identifying
the structure of them. This work focuses on the structural determination of a limonoid, namely 6-O-acetylswietephragmin E; extracted
from plant species of Swietenia Mahogani, better known as Mahogany. The analysis of X-ray diffraction was performed at room
temperature using the diffractometer Enraf Kappa-CCD NONIUS FR590 MoKα and radiation (λ = 0.71073 Ǻ). The structure was solved
by direct methods and refined by full matrix least squares method using the program SHELXL-971. The structure of molecule 6-Oacetylswietephragmin E, determined by X-ray diffraction confirmed an allocation based on spectroscopic data from nuclear magnetic
resonance (NMR)2. Also, the relative stereochemistry of this natural product determined by X-ray diffraction was concordant with the
study by NMR. It is worth noting the existence of a classical hydrogen bond intramolecular OH ... O between the two hydroxyl groups of
limonoid in question, which contributes to stabilize the solid state of molecule. The crystal structure of a small molecule of biological
interest was determined for the first time. This study demonstrates unequivocally the structure of limonoid concerned, what is relevant
from a structural standpoint, given the complexity of this molecule.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Ellena
Advisor Email
javiere@if.sc.usp.br
Javier Alcides
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Av. Trabalhador Sãocarlense, 400 Centro – Postal Code: 13560-970 - São Carlos, SP - Brasil
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Marcio David Bocelli is an Undergraduate in Chemistry at Universidade de São Paulo in Instituto de Química de São Carlos. He has
worked in the field of polymers, with emphasis on dyes and photodegradation and currently works in the field of crystallography, with
emphasis on solving structures by X-ray diffraction on single crystals, acting mainly in the area of polymorphism in pharmaceutical
solids: preparation and characterization of polymorphs of anti-HIV drugs.
Email Address
mdbocelli@gmail.com
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
Universidade de São Paulo 2012
Major
Chemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Jillian
M
Last Name
Boden
Abstract Title
Molecular Mechanisms of Ricin-Induced Cytotoxicity in Mammalian Cells
Abstract
Ricin is a toxin originating from the seeds of the castor plant, Ricinus communis. Its ease of isolation and extreme toxicity make it a
potential weapon for bioterrorism. Presently, no FDA-approved vaccines or therapeutics that protect against ricin exposure are available.
Ricin consists of two chains, the A-chain that contains the catalytic site and the B-chain that enables cell entry. The A-chain removes an
adenine from the 28S rRNA, depurinating the ribosome and causing protein synthesis inhibition. However, the relationship between
ricin‘s enzymatic activity and cytotoxicity is not well understood. The human embryonic kidney cell line HEK293T was used in the
present work to study this relationship. Treatment with ricin for 4 hours resulted in ribosome depurination and protein synthesis
inhibition as well as an increase in cytotoxicity. Examination of stress-activated signaling indicated that ricin induced JNK activation
between 2 to 4 hours of treatment, with phosphorylation levels declining between 6 and 24 hours. Surprisingly, ricin treatment for up to
24 hours resulted in only minimal (less than 50%) activation of caspase 3/7, an indicator of apoptosis. The defect between JNK and
caspase activation may be related to Bcl-2, a pro-survival protein that is reported to be overexpressed in this cell line. Excess Bcl-2 could
protect cells from ricin-induced apoptosis by preventing release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria and subsequent caspase
activation. These results would indicate that inactivation of Bcl-2 is needed for ricin to induce cell death. Further studies are in progress
to test this hypothesis.
Key Words Related to Project
ricin, signal transduction, cytotoxicity, caspase activation
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Wendie
Advisor Email
cohick@aesop.rutgers.edu
Cohick
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Foran Hall Room 108 59 Dudley Road New Brunswick NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jillian Boden is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Genetics. She is a member of the General
Honors Program as well as a George H. Cook Scholar.
Email Address
jmboden8@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Genetics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Zohab
Last Name
Boghani
Abstract Title
Anthocyanin as an Optical Chromophore in Monitoring Food Quality and Stablity
Abstract
Anthocyanins are the major pigments in an assortment of plants, and can absorb various forms of light. Due to this ability, it is potentially
an excellent chromophore to monitor different parameters related to food quality and safety. To determine whether anthocyanin can be a
useful probe, factors such as pH and polarity are being changed in order to view the different absorption/emission spectra. Results remain
questionable at this juncture, for the molecule has not been tested yet. The next steps of the project would be to actually test the different
parameters of anthocyanin, and to analyze the absorption/emission spectra. This would be conducted under different conditions, such as a
pH change, polarity difference, and water content change. After conducting these tests, the molecule will be judged for effectiveness as
an optical chromophore in monitoring food safety and stability.
Key Words Related to Project
phosphorescence, chromophore, food
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Richard
Advisor Email
rdl@echo.rutgers.edu
Ludescher
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
65 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Zohab Boghani is a sophomore at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Food Science minoring in
Economics.
Email Address
zboghani@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Environmental an 2013
Major
Food Science
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Samia
Last Name
Bouzid
Abstract Title
Time-Resolved Photometry of Nova V458 Vul
Abstract
We observed the cataclysmic variable star V458 Vul (Nova Vul 2007) over four nights in June, 2010, nearly three years after its outburst
to explore the nature of its variability. Our objective is to compare its observed variability with predictions and observations of other
novae in like stages of evolution. We obtained time-resolved photometry at the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (VATT), a 1.8
meter optical telescope on Mt. Graham, Arizona, each night covering 2 to 4 hour spans with a cadence of 30 seconds. The light curve
derived from the first night of data shows a clear 20 minute periodicity with a 0.1 magnitude amplitude. On subsequent nights, powerspectral analysis continues to show variations with a time scale of 20 minutes, but the irregularity of the signal suggests that this is a
quasi-periodic oscillation.
One of the interesting facts about V458 Vul is that it is the central star of a planetary nebula. Combining our CCD images suggests that
there is a light echo from the nova outburst is scattering off of material in the nebula to the northwest of the central star.
Our results contribute to an understanding of the evolution of novae, which evolve on a time scale of months to years. Appreciation goes
to the National Science Foundation for supporting this project through the Research Experience for Undergraduates program at Notre
Dame.
Key Words Related to Project
nova, quasi-periodic oscillation
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Saurabh
Advisor Email
saurabh@physics.rutgers.edu
Jha
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
136 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8019 USA
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Samia Bouzid is a junior Astrophysics major in the School of Arts & Sciences. This project was part of an NSF-funded REU at the
University of Notre Dame, which hosted her research in the summer of 2010. She is interested in eventually working at a professional
research institution for the study of astrophysics.
Email Address
sbouzid@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Astrophysics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Stacy
B
Last Name
Brody
Abstract Title
Tropical Tree Medicine: Fagraea Species as a Potential Source of Antimalarial Treatments
Abstract
Malaria is a major global health problem, with ca. 225 million cases and 781 000 deaths in 2009. Drug resistant strains of Plasmodium,
the parasite responsible for the disease, are evolving, so commonly-used antimalarial treatments are no longer effective in some areas.
Plants contain vast resources of known and unknown bioactive compounds and are potential sources of new antimalarial drugs. Species
in the flowering plant genus Fagraea (family Gentianaceae) have traditionally been used to treat malaria and fever in the tropics. We
investigated the chemical basis for their ethnobotanical uses as medicinal herbals used against malaria. Extracts were prepared and tested
to determine the antiplasmodial activity and cytotoxicity of four species of Fagraea: F. fragrans, F. crenulata, F. racemosa, and F.
auriculata, all large trees from Malaysia. They are closely related to species of Anthocleista from Africa, which was found to be antimalarial in a study by Merck. For each Fagraea species, a stepwise extraction method was used to generate four extracts (one ethanol, two
types of chloroform, and one aqueous), each of which was sent to the University of Cape Town in South Africa for assay. We expect to
see antiplasmodial activity at least from Fagraea fragrans, as anti-malarial fagraldehyde has been isolated from this species. Future work
includes the isolation of any bioactive components.
Key Words Related to Project
Malaria, Ethnobotany, Gentianaceae, Fagraea, Plasmodium
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Ilya
Advisor Email
raskin@aesop.rutgers.edu
Raskin
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
226 Foran Hall, 59 Dudley Road
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Stacy Brody is a junior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Plant Science and Agriculture.
Email Address
sbrody@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2012
Major
Plant science and agriculture
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Nicole
L
Last Name
Brunck
Abstract Title
Biocatalytic Syntheses of Chiral Drug Intermediates Based on Oxidoreductase Activity
Abstract
Enzymes that exhibit oxidoreductase activity show potential for industrial use in the creation and improvement of pharmaceutical drugs.
Proteins that exhibit this activity can be used to create chiral intermediates of popular drugs. The oxidoreductase activity of proteins
ZrV4, ZrV5, ZrV7, and ZrV10 were tested with different substrates and concentrations. Tests to determine the optimal storage
conditions for these proteins were also completed. These proteins were initially selected for testing from the Northeast Structural
Genomics Consortium (NESG) based on their sequence and/or structure information, then tested in different environments. More
research is being done to test the activity of these proteins and the structures of will be determined with NMR spectroscopy.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Gaetano
Advisor Email
guy@cabm.rutgers.edu
Montelione
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
CABM 679 Hoes Lane West, Rm 014A Piscataway, NJ 08854-8021
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Nicole Brunck is a sophomore at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Microbiology and minoring in
Nutrition.
Email Address
nbrunck@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2013
Major
Microbiology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Natasha A
Last Name
Cabrera
Abstract Title
Characterization of Collagen Fiber Alignment Induced by Freezing
Abstract
Although nerve regeneration is possible following peripheral nerve injury, functional recovery without intervention is often very limited.
The current ‗gold standard‘ clinical treatment is an autologous nerve graft, but autografts still fail for large injury gaps and require a
secondary surgery with associated morbidity. Biomaterial scaffolds that bridge the injured ends of a nerve can potentially solve this
problem, but recovery with these engineered grafts has not been as good as with autologus grafts. In previous research, our laboratory has
functionalized type I collagen with bioactive molecules known to enhance regeneration, which produced improved functional recovery
compared to unmodified collagen when tested in vivo. To further enhance the potential of these scaffolds, we are characterizing an
approach to align the collagen fibers to serve as a directional guide for axonal growth. Freezing and dehydrating the collagen with a
narrow tube induces alignment of the collagen fibers in the direction of the tube. We are testing the effects of gelation temperature,
freezing temperature, and freezing rate on collagen fiber alignment, diameter, and porosity. We are using scanning electron microscopy to
image and characterize the fiber alignment, diameter, and spacing. We will then evaluate the directed growth of axons and Schwann cells
in vitro.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
shreiber@rci.rutgers.edu
Shreiber
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
599 Taylor Road Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Natasha Cabrera is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and in History. Upon
graduating from Rutgers University, Natasha aspires to become either a neurosurgeon or an orthopedic surgeon.
Email Address
cabreran@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
1. Cell Biology and Neuroscience 2. History
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Molly
J
Last Name
Carroll
Abstract Title
Isolation and Characterization of Stem Cells in Glioblastoma Cell Line
Abstract
A wide variety of cancers have been found to include a side population of cancer stem cells (CSCs). These CSCs possess characteristics
similar to those of other stem cells including self-renewal and multipotency. It is also believed that these CSCs within a glioblastoma
cancer cell population have the ability to form secondary spheres that resemble glioblastomas. This project will address specific
techniques that will isolate and characterize these CSCs found in the U87 glioblastoma cell line in the hopes of targeting these cells for
future therapeutic treatments. Such techniques include selective media growth isolation, as well as autofluorescent separation using the
FACS machine. Along with these techniques, confocal microscopy and immunocytochemistry will be utilized to characterize this side
population within the U87 glioblastoma cell line.
Key Words Related to Project
cancer stem cells, U87 glioblastoma cell line, stem cell isolation and characterization
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Charles
Advisor Email
cmroth@rci.rutgers.edu
Roth
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
599 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Molly Carroll is a junior in the Honors Program at the Rutgers School of Engineering studying Biomedical Engineering, with a
concentration in Cell and Tissue Engineering.
Email Address
School Name
CARROLLM@EDEN.RUTGERS. School of Engineering
Poster 12-2pm
Class Year
2012
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Vibhu
Last Name
Chandrashekhar
Abstract Title
Role of Small-Molecule Inhibitors on Protein-Protein Interactions and on Dendrite Morphology in Neurons
Abstract
Neurite structure and branching greatly determines the manner in which a neuron interacts with other neurons. Modifications in the
growth patterns of dendrites have been shown to change communication among neurons. Therefore, to understand the role neurons play
during development and adulthood, it is imperative to understand the mechanisms behind dendritic growth. While various intrinsic
peptides have been shown to affect dendrite growth in vitro two are of particular interest, PSD-95 (post synaptic density 95) and cypin
(cytosolic PSD-95 interactor) due to their opposite effects on neurite extension and their interaction with each other. PSD-95 has been
shown to negatively regulates neurite growth by altering microtubule behavior and cypin has been shown to increase branching by
increasing microtubule polymerization. Cypin interacts with PSD-95 at the first two PDZ (PSD-95, discs large, zona occludens-1 binding
domains and neurons expressing cypin lacking the PDZ binding motif show dendrite pruning between 10 and 17 days in culture. It has
also been shown that overexpression of cypin in neurons can reduce PSD-95 clustering at the synapse which could alter the cells ability
to communicate with other cells. To better understand the effects of cypin and PSD-95‘s interaction on dendrite morphology, I have
started to use membrane soluble small molecule componds obtained from Dr Mark Spaller‘s laboratory in Dartmouth which can bind to
the the first two PDZ domains of PSD-95. This could block the interaction between Cypin and PSD-95 at the PDZ domain and change
the way these proteins interact to regulate neurite extension. Using co-immunoprecipitation I have tested the ability of these compounds
to disrupt the interaction of cypin and PSD-95 in adult rat brain. After I establish the concentrations need to disrupt this interaction I will
use the compounds on cultured hippocampal cells to test the compounds ability to alter neurite extension.
Key Words Related to Project
dendrites cypin PSD95
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Time
Advisor
Bonnie
Advisor Email
Panel Name
Firestein
Advisor Address
604 Allison Road, Piscataway. NJ 08854-8082
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Vibhu Chandrashekhar is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring in
Economics. He has been working in Dr. Firestein's Laboratory for 2 years.
Email Address
vibhuc@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Cell Bio/Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Abhinav R
Last Name
Changa
Abstract Title
Electrophysiological Characterization of Dorsal Horn Neurons in a Mouse Model of Neuropathic Pain
Abstract
The functional use of pain as a signal of injury is very important for survival. Neuropathic pain (NP) is a condition where this signaling
system has been implicated, resulting in the manifestation of chronic pain long after an injury has healed. Although no proposed
mechanism has fully explained the phenomena, some theories have shown some promise. One theory suggests that spontaneous activity
of nociceptive neurons found in the superficial dorsal horn (SDH) plays a very important role in NP. Prior studies in rats have supported
this by showing that hyperactive SDH neurons correlated strongly to neuropathic behavior. However, much less has been worked out in
the mouse, which serves as a strong medium for transgenic experimentation. In this study, we are using electrophysiology to study the
miniature excitatory post-synaptic activity (mEPSCs) of neurons in both physiological and pathological mice to verify its status as a
viable model of neuropathy. Currently, we are determining the properties of afferent activity in the SDH neurons of normal mice to
quantify baseline, physiological activity. Further studies involve using nerve injury models to mimic the symptoms of neuropathic pain,
and to then compare the activity of the implicated SDH neurons to the aforementioned physiological baseline activity. Future goals
involve incorporating mouse transgenics with electrophysiology to better understand pain mechanisms in order to better the therapies
used to relieve pain.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lei
Advisor Email
yu@biology.rutgers.edu
Yu
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Abhinav Changa is a senior at the School of Arts of Sciences double-majoring in Cell Biology & Neuroscience and Philosophy. He is
currently working on an Honors Thesis under the direction of Dr. Lei Yu. Set for graduating in May 2011, he plans to continue pursuing
further studies in medicine.
Email Address
abhic23@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2011
Major
Cell Biology & Neuroscience/ Philosophy
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Tan
T
Last Name
Chen
Abstract Title
What is the meaning of "the"?
Abstract
What is the meaning of ‗the‘? Native speakers cannot explain the meaning of determiners but they use them competently in every
sentence. Appropriate usage of determiners in language is subtle and is a complex issue. Learning the underlying mental processes of
how determiners are used is important in furthering the understanding of language acquisition. Sentences can have multiple
interpretations. Conveying different meanings is dependent on determiner usage, which can be seen cross-linguistically. Second language
(L2) learners fluctuate in their use of determiners. (Ionin, Ko, and Wexler 2004) hypothesized that first language (L1) speakers of
languages without articles access Universal Grammar (UG) when learning an L2 with articles. This study analyzes the factors that
influence article usage in L2 learners; particularly, on L2 acquisition complications in specificity. [+specific] is defined as the speaker‘s
intent to refer; [-specific], no intent to refer (IKW 2004). This study compares the acquisition of French L2 in several L1s to determine
whether the UG theory proves true. Dutch, English, Japanese, Russian L1 speakers learning L2 French are given a forced-choice task to
fill in the appropriate determiners. If the results show that L2 learners make the same errors regardless of the L1 article background, then
UG cannot provide an explanation. Therefore, something else is influencing the determiner usage. Future research will study
egocentricity as another factor in linguistic complexities. Multiple perspectives can have an influence on determiner usage (Keysar 2000).
Clarifying the different dimensions of determiners allows for a better interpretation in language and reduce ambiguity.
Key Words Related to Project
French, English, Japanese, Dutch, Russian, articles, egocentricity
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Vivian
Advisor Email
deprez@rci.rutgers.edu
Déprez
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
18 Seminary Place
Other Students Involved
Shirley Huang, Mihir Sarwade
Presenter Biography
Tan Chen is a senior at the School of Arts and Science majoring in French and minoring in Economics. Mihir Sarwade is a senior at the
School of Arts and Science majoring in French and Genetics. Shirley Huang is a junior at the School of Arts of and Science majoring in
French and Psychology and minoring in Biology.
Email Address
tanchen@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
French
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Tiffany P
Last Name
Chen
Abstract Title
Gene Expression in Yeast: Cancer-related Receptor Tyrosine Kinases
Abstract
This project works with two human oncogenes named FLT3, linked to leukemia, and c-KIT, linked to prostate cancer, that code for
mutated receptor tyrosine kinases. Normally, RTKs are proteins embedded in the plasma membrane that bind ligands (extracellular signal
molecules). Ligand binding stabilizes a RTK conformation that phosphorylates proteins, triggering a signal transduction pathway, leading
to a cell response. In some cancers, the overexpression or mutation of RTKs initiate abnormal cell behavior, such as rapid cell growth and
proliferation. Chemotherapeutics called RTK inhibitors solve these problems by mimicking the ligand‘s shape and impeding RTK
activities upon binding. Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast) as the model organism, this project‘s objective was to establish a
yeast expression system to screen for oncoprotein inhibitors that suppress the oncogene toxicity in yeast. Creating this system involved
transforming yeast strains with plasmids built through cloning. However, many problems delayed the project at cloning. Only KIT was
successfully cloned into the vector pN568 (Gal-URA vector) and transformed into yeast; however, these yeast did not exhibit different
growth from control cells transformed with the original plasmids, leading to the hypothesis that a CAAX box may be needed to target the
RTK to the plasma membrane for correct protein expression. The FLT3 mutant gene was also thought to have been cloned into pN568;
however, digestion by enzyme SalI yielded incorrect DNA bands. The cloning was re-done but still failed, leading to the hypothesis that
the FLT3 oncogene is so toxic that cells with the correct plasmid cannot grow.
Key Words Related to Project
gene expression, yeast, receptor tyrosine kinase, oncogene, cancer
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Michael
Advisor Email
hampsemi@umdnj.edu
Hampsey
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Research & Public Health Building Room 285, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Tiffany Chen is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring in Chemistry. She
completed a summer and a semester of research under Dr. Michael Hampsey at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School at UMDNJ.
Her personal career goal is to enter the dental field after her undergraduate studies by attending Dental School. Currently, she is a coleader of the Women's Fellowship in Chinese Christian Fellowship.
Email Address
tehfunny@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Yang
M
Last Name
Chen
Abstract Title
Topical Treatment of Psoriasis Using Tyrosine-Derived Nanospheres (TyroSpheres®) - 1: Cytotoxicity of Paclitaxel-Loaded
TyroSpheres® 2: Nile Red-Loaded TyroSpheres® Enable Visualization of Lipophilic Drug Delivery into Skin-Related Cells and Skin
Abstract
Our goal was to examine the cytotoxicity of TyroSpheres® and to test their ability to transport Nile Red, a fluorescent model compound
for lipophilic drugs, into skin strata.
Cytotoxicity of TyroSpheres® alone, paclitaxel-loaded TyroSpheres®, and free paclitaxel to
HaCaTs (human keratinocytes) was studied using AlamarBlue® Assay. TyroSpheres® (12.5ng/ml–50ug/ml) are not cytotoxic: at 72hrs
post-treatment, HaCaT viability was >90%. The cytotoxicity of free paclitaxel to HaCaTs was measured; the Lethal Dose at 50% viability
(LD50) was 3.3±0.9 nM. The LD50 of paclitaxel loaded in TyroSpheres® was much lower (1.8±0.5 nM). These results suggest that
TyroSpheres®, while nontoxic, effectively deliver paclitaxel to HaCaTs.
Nile Red was successfully loaded into TyroSpheres® and its
sustained release profiles under sink conditions were obtained using phosphate buffers containing either 0.1% or 1% surfactant at pH 7.2
and pH 5.6 (skin surface pH) as release media. Secondly, Nile Red encapsulated in the TyroSpheres® was effectively delivered into three
cell lines: HaCaTs, NIH3T3 (fibroblasts) and Raw264.7 (macrophages).
Skin permeation studies illustrated that TyroSpheres®
deliver Nile Red into the lower epidermal layer where psoriasis originates. Among cadaver skin specimens and biopsies from both
healthy and psoriatic donors, the psoriatic samples were the most permeable.
Conclusions:
These results show the potential of
using TyroSpheres® in skin therapy via delivery of lipophilic compounds into human skin and skin cells. We also established that the
TyroSpheres® were nontoxic and that psoriatic human skin was more permeable to the lipophilic compound when compared to human
cadaver and healthy skins.
Key Words Related to Project
nanospheres; controlled drug release/delivery; psoriasis; skin therapy
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
201A
Advisor
Bozena
Advisor Email
michniak@biology.rutgers.edu
Michniak
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
The Future of Pharmacy
Advisor Address
145 Bevier Rd., Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Yangmin Chen is a sophomore (pre-professional second year) enrolled in the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy and a candidate for
Doctor of Pharmacy.
Email Address
chenym@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
Ernest Mario School of Phar 2015
Major
Pharmacy
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Kurt
M
Last Name
Cheng
Abstract Title
Using Ribbed Mussels as Sentinels for Dermo Disease in Delaware Bay
Abstract
The Eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica plays important ecological and economic roles in Delaware Bay but are unfortunately highly
susceptible to Dermo disease caused by the protozoan Perkinsus marinus. When infected oysters die, the protozoan is released into the
water column and transmitted to other oysters. Transmission rates have been inherently difficult to measure as much of the oyster
population is infected. The ribbed mussel Geukensis demissa is a sympatric filter feeder that could serve as a sentinel for Dermo disease
transmission. Samples of 30 mussels at three different sites were collected across a salinity gradient and processed with a standard P.
marinus tissue burden technique. Mussels were individually weighed and measured, and gills were processed separately from remaining
viscera to differentiate parasites filtered from the water column from parasites that may have infected mussels. Mussel size was not
statistically different across sites (p=0.1296), and mussel length was a good predictor of gill weight (p<0.0001) indicating that mussel
length could be used as a surrogate for gill weight. Gill weight was not significantly related to P. marinus concentrations in gill tissue
(p=0.4097), indicating that mussels were accumulating parasites at similar rates regardless of size. Gill tissue contained significantly
higher levels of P. marinus than remaining viscera (p<0.0001), suggesting that mussels were not becoming infected. The site in the
middle of the salinity gradient sampled showed significantly higher levels of the parasite (p<0.0001) than the higher and lower salinity
sites and may indicate a spatial or temporal difference in transmission, or both.
Key Words Related to Project
Delaware Bay, mussels, oysters
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
bushek@hsrl.rutgers.edu
Bushek
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
71 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8525
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kurt Cheng is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Marine Science with an option in Marine
Biology. He has spent two summers as an intern at the Rutgers Haskin Shellfish Research Laboratory where he assisted in studies
regarding oysters in the Delaware Bay. Kurt enjoys the outdoors and recreational fishing.
Email Address
cheng7@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Marine Science
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Chester
Last Name
Chia
Abstract Title
Pre-Training Infusion of APV Attenuates Up-Regulation of Arc (arg3.1) Protein Expression in Dorsal and Ventral Hippocampus
Abstract
Neuronal immediate-early genes (IEGs) are characterized by their rapid induction via neural activity. These ―effector‖ genes have a
number of cellular functions including the rapid induction and stabilization of changes in synaptic strength and, in turn, memory
consolidation. One particular IEG of interest is Arc (activity regulated cytoskeletal-associated protein, also known as arg3.1). Numerous
experiments have shown that Arc undergoes a time-limited, quantity-limited, and mRNA-specific translational response, which appears
to be critically involved in some aspects of neuronal plasticity; collectively, these experiments suggest that Arc is specially suited to
coupling neuronal activity to protein-dependent, synapse-specific alterations and stabilization of synaptic strength.
Though it is now
commonly accepted that the up-regulation of Arc protein after salient stimulation is critical for the successful acquisition of various forms
of learning, few have studied the integration of learning-dependent upregulation of Arc protein with the activation of particular types of
neuronal receptors. Emerging evidence suggests that NMDA/Glutamate receptor-mediated transmission is the primary mechanism
mediating the plastic changes that support long-term memories. Specifically, recent data from our laboratory suggest that NMDA
receptors in both the dorsal and ventral hippocampus are critical to successful acquisition of Pavlovian trace conditioning, a form of
associative learning. Through the use of APV (2-amino-5-phosphonovaleric acid), an NMDA receptor antagonist, and immunoblotting,
the current study seeks to investigate whether Arc protein regulation and activation of NMDA receptors are interdependent. Briefly, we
have found that NMDA receptor antagonism blocks the learning-dependent enhancements of Arc in a regionally specific manner.
Key Words Related to Project
Hippocampus, Learning, Memory, Arc, IEG
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Tim
Advisor Email
totto@rci.rutgers.edu
Otto
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Rd. Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Chester Chia is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences. He is double majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and Medieval
Studies.
Email Address
chchia@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Michael
Last Name
Chiou
Abstract Title
Permeation of Nicotine Aacross Polyderm™ Human Skin Equivalent
Abstract
The skin is not only the body‘s protective barrier from environmental chemicals and agents, but also a route for administering drugs and
other therapeutic agents. In most pharmaceutical testing laboratories, transdermal permeation of both therapeutic and potentially toxic
substances is tested using in vitro human skin samples. However, such skin samples are expensive and supplies are limited. In addition,
bans on animal testing are encouraged by many governmental agencies. Thus, alternatives are being explored that will replace testing in
both animal and donated human skin. The development of Polyderm™, a novel human skin equivalent (HSE), is in progress in the
research group of Professor Michniak-Kohn. The model involves seeding human primary keratinocytes over a collagen-fibroblast layer
inserted with an electrospun polymer (Polyderm™), which provides a model with more mechanical strength than commercial models.
The permeation of nicotine solution across Polyderm™ HSE and the effectiveness of Polyderm™ in predicting trends across human and
porcine skin will be analyzed.
Polyderm™ will be cultured for approximately one month and mounted on the vertical-jacketed Franz
diffusion cell for in vitro permeation studies. Nicotine will be added to the donor compartment of the Franz cell; the receptor
compartment will be filled with a buffer solution maintained at 37ºC by a thermostatic water pump and will be stirred continuously to
mimic in vivo conditions. Ten samples will be withdrawn from the receptor within a 24-hour period, and replaced with an equivalent
volume of the buffer solution. Quantitative analysis of the samples will be performed using HPLC.
Key Words Related to Project
Polyderm, Human Skin Equivalent, Permeation, Nicotine
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Bozena
Advisor Email
michniak@biology.rutgers.edu
Michniak-Kohn
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
145 Bevier Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Michael Chiou is a 3rd year student at Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences. He is double majoring in Biological Sciences and Economics.
Email Address
mchiou@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
Rutgers School of Arts and 2012
Major
Biological Sciences, Economics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Kevin
R
Last Name
Coffey
Abstract Title
Cocaine Self-Administration is a Learned Skilled Goal-Directed Action
Abstract
Today‘s most accepted theories regarding the behavioral basis of substance abuse describe drug-taking as a skilled and habitual
behavior. The latter is conceptualized such that the transition from drug use to addiction encompasses drug-taking behaviors that occur
without regard to the consequences of use. The present study examined whether drug-taking behavior becomes skilled and habitual over
extended drug use. Animals acquire cue responsive cocaine self-administration, with reduced latency to respond after tone presentations.
The head movement operant also becomes faster, more efficient, and more frequent over time. These indices were used to conclude that
cocaine self-administration becomes a learned skill, linked to cues predicting drug access. However, given that response rates were
directly related to the animals‘ preferred drug level, drug-taking did not become habitual. This result supports the notion that cocaine
blood levels act as a continuously monitored interoceptive stimulus driving responding. The results also extend this notion by suggesting
the animals preferred drug level acts as the goal of cocaine self-administration; comparisons between the current drug level and preferred
level are necessary to guide drug-seeking behavior.
Key Words Related to Project
Cocaine, Habit, Skill, Striatum
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mark
Advisor Email
MarWest@rutgers.edu
West
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kevin Coffey is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences. He will complete an honors major in Psychology, an individualized major in
Behavioral Neuroscience, and a minor in Cognitive Science. Through work in Dr. Mark O. West's laboratory at Rutgers University, he
found that behavioral neuroscience research utilized his favorite aspects of engineering and computer science, to interpret the
relationships between the brain and behavior.
Email Address
mrcoffey@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Daniel
J
Last Name
Coiro
Abstract Title
Decarboxylative Formation of N-Alkyl Pyrroles From 4-Hydroxy-L-proline
Abstract
Microwave facilitated organic synthesis is a growing field within organic chemistry. Within this project, we examine the synthesis of Nalkyl pyrroles from aliphatic and aryl aldehydes and ketones with 4-hydroxy-L-proline, a commercially available, inexpensive amino-acid
under microwave conditions. We propose the formation of N-alkyl pyrroles from 4-hydroxy-L-proline proceeds through a
decarboxylative mechanism, which forms a highly reactive azomethine ylide intermediate followed by a re-aromatization event. The
optimized condition of this reaction was screened on parent 4-chlorobenzaldehyde under various conditions. The optimized condition
was found to be 240 °C, toluene (0.5 M), benzoic acid catalyst (0.2 equiv.), for 15 minutes under microwave irradiation. The scope of
this reaction was then examined for twenty other examples with ~50–70 % yields. Pyrroles are valuable components of both medicinal
drugs and natural products, and this method provides access to N-benzyl pyrroles that would be hard to form with traditional alkylations.
Key Words Related to Project
Decarboxylation, Pyrrole, Proline
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Daniel
Advisor Email
seidel@rutchem.rutgers.edu
Seidel
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
610 Taylor Road, Piscataway NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Daniel Coiro is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Chemistry (Biology Option) and Biomathematics.
Email Address
dcoiro89@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Chemistry (Biology Option), Biomathematics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Alexander E
Last Name
Conicella
Abstract Title
Genetically Engineering Plants to Facilitate Efficient Bioethanol Production
Abstract
Cellulosic biomass degrading enzymes: lignin peroxidase, xylanase, laccase, and e1-cellulase, as well as the starch-to-ethanol enzyme αamylase, were cloned into Escherichia coli and overexpressed using the pET expression system and IPTG induction. Proteins were
isolated using affinity purification methods and analyzed with SDS-PAGE and western blot. Xylanase activity was assayed and the
purified protein activity was calculated to be 5 uU/mg; activity assays for the remaining recombinant proteins will be performed. In
addition, methods will be tested to both improve protein yield and prevent premature protein degradation in vivo. Plant transformation
constructs containing the α-amylase gene and α-amylase with a 5' dual targeting sequence were transformed into tobacco using
Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Transgenic plants will be confirmed with PCR and western blot, and α-amylase activity will be
tested and compared to that of α-amylase purified from E. coli. Plastid transformation constructs for both E1 and pVSR326 Gus reporter
gene were bombarded into tobacco leaf tissue with the BioRad Particle Delivery System; transplastomic plants will be confirmed and E1
activity will be tested. This research illustrates the ever-increasing feasibility of producing genetically modified plants which express
cellulosic biomass degrading enzymes to improve the efficiency of cellulosic ethanol production and thus reduce dependence on fossil
fuels.
Key Words Related to Project
bioenergy biofuel ethanol transgenic transplastomic
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Rong
Advisor Email
di@aesop.rutgers.edu
Di
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
59 Dudley Rd.
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alexander Conicella is a Molecular Biology and Biochemistry major completing his junior year in the School of Arts and Sciences. He
has worked with Dr. Rong Di researching bioenergy solutions since the summer of 2009.
Email Address
aconicel@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Tassio
Last Name
Costa
Abstract Title
Numerical Study of Forward Scattering of Photosynthetically Active Radiation Caused by Aerosol Particles Emitted from Biomass
Burning in Amazonia
Abstract
Measurements of global in a horizontal surface and normally incident direct irradiance in the PAR spectral region (from 400 to 700 nm)
were made in Rondonia, southern Amazonia, during the LBA RaCCI Experiment in September and October 2002. At the same pla
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Marcia
Advisor Email
akemi@model.iag.usp.br
Yamasoe
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
IAG/USP. Rua do Matão, 1226 - Cidade Universitária, São Paulo
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Tassio is a Meteorology student interested in Atmospheric Radiation. He is now working in research about the effects of biomass burning
aerosols in Amazonia. He has received two undergraduate awards in the University of Sao Paulo for his research project in 2010.
Email Address
tassiocosta@yahoo.com.br
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Universidade de São Paulo
Class Year
Major
Meteorology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Jigar
Last Name
Desai
Abstract Title
Development of An Assay for Apical Endocytosis
Abstract
Invisibility to sound or acoustic cloaking can be achieved from acoustic metamaterial. Acoustic metamaterial is a man-made material
engineered to provide special property of sound invisibility. Past research have shown that an acoustic metamaterial should be a system
of small particles with point contact, be able to support biaxial stress, have varied stiffness in different directions and have similar
resistance to shear stress as the surrounding. This project deals with acoustic cloaking in water so the design needs to have same bulk
modulas as water. This project applies these properties to develop a technique to model and prototype acoustic metamaterial. The
designing of micro-structure is done using SolidWorks program; the study of micromechanics is done via ANSYS program and finally
the 3D modeling is processed by either Electric Discharge Machine (EDM) or water jet machine. An array of unit cell with five cylinders
attached in pentagonal shape with point contact was designed. An analysis was done on this through ANSYS by applying pressure on
nodal points and measuring stress and strain. Using stress-strain data, a MATLAB code was generated to evaluate the bulk modulus. The
results showed that the calculated bulk modulus was higher than water. This led to a conclusion that the design proposed had to be
modified inorder to incoporate smaller particles with lesser contact. A new design has been made and analysis is be being done on it.
Once the design has similar propoerties to water a prototype will be made using EDM or water jet.
Key Words Related to Project
c. elegans endocytosis apical cargos
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
201A
Advisor
Barth
Advisor Email
grant@biology.rutgers.edu
Grant
Time
10- 11 a.m.
Panel Name
Perspectives in Biomedical Engineering
Advisor Address
Nelson Biological Laboratories A307
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jigar Desai is a senior at SAS majoring in Molecular biology and Biochemistry and Physics. Majoring in MBB has made him interested
in research; as a result, he has been in the research lab more than two years. He plans to be involved in research even during his medical
school career.
Email Address
jigar143@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
MBB and Physics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Patrick F
Last Name
Dolan
Abstract Title
The Effects of Aging and Fitness on Reactivity to Psychosocial Stressors: Cardiovascular and HPA Axial Responses
Abstract
Aerobic fitness is associated with greater efficiency in physiological responses to psychological stress. This study tested the influences of
aging and fitness on the cardiovascular and HPA axial reactivity to a laboratory stressor. Heart rate (HR), blood pressure (SBP,DBP),
cardiac output (CO), stroke volume (SV), and salivary cortisol were recorded in subjects of various ages and levels of fitness during and
recovering from the Trier Social Stress Test. Results will be be studied based on fitness and age moderators as continuous variables.
Results will also then be analyzed and compared in relation to conclusions from a recent meta-analysis.
Key Words Related to Project
Cardiovascular, Fitness, Reactivity, Stress
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Brandon
Advisor Email
alderman@rutgers.edu
Alderman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Loree Building
Other Students Involved
Laura Freneaux
Presenter Biography
Patrick Dolan is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Exercise Science and minoring in Psychology. Laura Freneaux
is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Exercise Science and minoring in Biology.
Email Address
pfdolan45@gmail.com
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Exercise Science
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Lauren N
Last Name
Eisen
Abstract Title
Susceptibility of Human Pathogens to Plant Derived Antimicrobial Agents
Abstract
In the past ten years there have been nineteen outbreaks of foodborne illness linked to the consumption of fresh produce such as lettuce
and spinach. Methods presently used to enhance the microbial safety of fresh produce do not effectively eliminate pathogens linked to
human illness. We propose the novel application of plant antimicrobial peptides (pAMP) to reduce or eliminate foodborne bacteria
associated with fresh and fresh-cut produce. We hypothesize that pAMP will provide an effective natural alternative to the use of
chemical sanitizers for the control of human pathogenic bacteria associated with produce. Two objectives of the hypothesis: 1) To
determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of RD1 and RD3 against E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella; 2) To determine the
bacteriostatic effect of RD1 and RD3 to indicate synergistic, additive, or antagonistic. Results of the study indicate that for Salmonella
the MIC for RD1 and RD3 is 250 and 1000 µg/ml, respectively. E. coli O157:H7 and Pseudomonas exhibited the same MIC (1000
µg/ml) for RD1. Comparatively, the MIC for Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus for RD3 was the same at 1000 µg/ml.
Results show synergy of RD1 and RD3 against E. coli O157:H7; MIC: RD1 62.5 µg/ml and RD3 31.25. The data accumulated in the
present study suggests that in combination RD1 and RD3 effectively inhibit the growth of E. coli O157:H7 and hold promise for use in
the treatment of fresh produce to enhance microbial safety.
Key Words Related to Project
Salmonella, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Foodborne pathogens, natural antimicrobials
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Karl
Advisor Email
matthews@aesop.rutgers.edu
Matthews
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
65 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Lauren N. Eisen is a senior at School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Food Science with a concentration on
Management Economics and minoring in Environmental Business Economics. During the summer of 2010, Lauren participated in
IFTSA‘s national product development competition with the Graduate Product Development Team, successfully placing second among
all colleges presenting a new innovation in the meat snack category. She hopes to one day contribute to the advancement of food safety.
Email Address
leisen@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Food Science
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Justin
J
Last Name
Farischon
Abstract Title
Understanding the Atomic Model and Isotope Shift
Abstract
There is an incomplete understanding of the atomic model, and several know effects are not fully understand. One such effect is known
as isotope shift. This is a shift in the atomic line spectrum. In the hydrogen atom the electron is 100,000 times the proton's radii away
from the center of the proton, which is well outside the nucleus. But there is the small probability that the electron is inside the nucleus,
that causes the isotope shift. One of the ways to study isotope shift is by using laser spectroscopy. With the circuitry of electronic
devises getting smaller and more efficient each year, it will be a matter of time before the technology becomes on the atomic level. At
that point a more accurate understanding of the atomic model is needed.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Larry
Advisor Email
lzamick@physics.rutgers.edu
Zamick
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Justin Farischon is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Physics and Mathematics.
Email Address
farisj1@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Science 2013
Major
Physics, Mathematics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Mihai
L
Last Name
Feraru
Abstract Title
Effects of Tau Inhibitor Drug on Lifespan of Drosophila Fly
Abstract
The experiment was aimed to ascertain the effects of an experimental drug on transgenic Drosophila flies expressing Aβ. Aβ is a peptide
that aggregates in the CNS and is a cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Expression of Aβ in the CNS of flies causes neurodegeneration
manifested as a shorter lifespan. The drug used has been tested as a tau aggregation inhibitor. Firstly we needed to consider the toxicity of
the drug and therefore we used control flies in different vials containing normal food, 0.3% drug food, 3% drug food and methanol food.
The methanol experiment tested for added toxicity since the drug is soluble in methanol but not water. Further methanol food testing was
required due to inconsistent results. We have run tests under two conditions: in the first one the drug was exposed to adult flies, in the
second one the drug was exposed throughout development. This allowed the flies to develop in the drug and resulted in a greater effect.
For the actual experiment we used (elavGal/+);(UAS-Aβ42HJ2.12/+);(+/+) flies. We used Aβ42HJ2.12 since it results in very high Aβ
levels that give flies an average of 10-15 days to live. The results of this experiment might help us ascertain beneficial effects of this drug
on Alzheimer‘s Disease patients.
Key Words Related to Project
Alzheimer's Drosophila lifespan Aβ CNS
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
202C
Advisor
Mary
Advisor Email
Konsolaki@Biology.Rutgers.Edu
Konsolaki
Time
2- 3 p.m.
Panel Name
Bug Experiments
Advisor Address
604 ALLISON ROAD, Piscataway, NJ, 08854-8000
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Mihai Lucian Feraru is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience. He plans on
attending Medical School to become a General Practitioner. His hobbies include tennis, computer programming and socializing.
Email Address
lucian@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Undeclared
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Simone V
Last Name
Fermin
Abstract Title
Flying Insects and Flapping Robots: Insect Flight Database
Abstract
Miniature insect-like flapping robots have a huge potential to positively impact a wide range of industries, but an efficient method of
creating these flyers has not yet been developed. An ideal technique for such construction might incorporate a digitized, three
dimensional computer model, able to mathematically determine whether a design will be successful or not, without wasting resources.
Complete programs like this do not yet exist, however an alternate method involving analysis of high speed insect flight video has been
used across an array of projects. In the absence of an accurate computer modeling system, visual analysis serves as the foundation for
obtaining the measurements necessary to design a working prototype. The primary objective of this research is to establish a database of
high speed insect flight and wing mechanisms which will be made available to the FIFR (Flying Insects and Flapping Robots) research
team. This will not only serve the team in building their current flapping machines, but may also serve as a reference for future projects as
the diversity of collected video increases. The database may also be expanded to one day provide an analysis of the efficiency of each
video‘s flight sequence.
Key Words Related to Project
Insects Flying Robot Database
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mitsunori
Advisor Email
denda@rutgers.edu
Denda
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
98 Brett Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Nicole Kent, Daniel Youssef
Presenter Biography
Simone Fermin is a sophomore in the School of Engineering currently pursuing a major in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. She
is also involved in the Society of Hispanic Engineers and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Nicole Kent is currently a
sophomore in the Rutgers School of Engineering, majoring in Electrical Engineering. Outside of coursework, she is a member of
Engineers without Borders and recently traveled to Kenya over winter break.
Email Address
simonevf@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Tzeh Keong
Last Name
Foo
Abstract Title
Some Like it Hot: Effects of Environmental Factors on the Diversity and Distribution of merA in Yellowstone National Park Hot Springs
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic heavy metal with historical uses in barometers, thermometers, fluorescent lamps, and dental amalgam. Hg
is cycled in the environment by a series of biotic and abiotic transformations and fluxes. The most common microbial resistance towards
Hg toxicity involves reduction of Hg(II) to elemental Hg(0) that is attributed to a mercury reducing gene (merA), the centerpiece of the
Bacterial mercury resistance system (mer). Current understanding of the mer system is based on later evolving, heterotrophic bacterial
lineages from environments contaminated due to human activities; little is known of Hg cycling in geothermal environments. Hot springs
are examples of geothermal environments and are known geologic sources of Hg, as elevated and variable Hg concentrations were
observed in Yellowstone National Park (YNP) hot springs. Thermophilic bacterial communities in YNP hot springs are an excellent
model to study merA evolution, as well as those factors which affect its‘ diversity and distribution as recent phylogenetic reconstructions
point to a thermophilic ancestral merA. This research project evaluates the effects of environmental parameters such as temperature, pH,
and dominant microbial taxa on merA diversity and distribution in YNP hot spring microbial mats. Neutral/alkaline Bijah Spring and
acidic Succession Spring were studied. Preliminary sequencing of 16S rRNA and merA library clones suggests that lower temperature
results in greater merA diversity, while increased acidity might lead to lower merA diversity. No direct correlation was observed between
the most abundant bacteria species discovered and merA diversity.
Key Words Related to Project
Thermophiles, Mercury, Resistance, Communities, Hot Springs
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Tamar
Advisor Email
barkay@aesop.rutgers.edu
Barkay
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
76 Lipman Drive, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Tzeh Keong Foo is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biotechnology (animal option) and
minoring in Biochemistry. He is currently a G.H. Cook Senior Honors Scholar in Dr. Tamar Barkay‘s lab that focuses on bioremediation
efforts in mercury contaminated environments. Upon graduation, he hopes to attend graduate school to earn a Ph.D. in microbiology and
to pursue a career in academia by teaching and continuing research.
Email Address
tzkeong@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Biotechnology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Christopher A
Last Name
Franz
Abstract Title
Control of Osteocalcin Expression in Sensory Neurons
Abstract
According to traditional scientific thinking, osteocalcin, the most abundant noncollagenous protein in bone matrix tissue, is only
produced by osteoblasts. In bone, the function of osteocalcin is associated with regulation of bone calcification and hydroxyapatite
formation. However, recent work by Ichikawa et al. determined that osteocalcin is localized to large neurons within the rat dorsal root
and other sensory gangia (DRG). Gene expression studies in the Buckendahl lab have found that both osteocalcin mRNA and protein are
present in rat and mouse DRG; gene expression research with the osteocalcin knockout mouse has found the absence of osteocalcin
mRNA and protein within the DRG. These findings oppose the previous scientific understanding of the physiological function of
osteocalcin. The purpose of my project is to probe the possible functions of osteocalcin within the nervous system using cultures of
dissociated sensory neurons. In ganglionic neuronal cultures, it is possible to observe the specific localization of osteocalcin within
subpopulations of sensory neurons and in specific regions of the cells themselves. Additionally, the extracellular conditions of sensory
neurons may be strictly controlled, and their effects on gene expression may be observed. Observing the localization and expression of
osteocalcin in response to varied extracellular factors may allow me to propose a possible role that osteocalcin is playing in the nervous
system.
Key Words Related to Project
Osteocalcin, Dorsal Root Ganglia
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Patricia
Advisor Email
buckedp@rci.rutgers.edu
Buckendahl
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Center of Alcohol Studies, 607 Allison Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Christopher Franz is a senior in the School of Arts in Sciences Honors Program. He is majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and
minoring in psychology. Christopher is planning on pursuing a career in medicine after graduation.
Email Address
cfranz@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Michael A
Last Name
Fremed
Abstract Title
Retinoblastoma and the Embryonic Stem Cell Cycle
Abstract
Undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells (hESC) have been shown to progress rapidly through the cell cycle, exhibiting very short
G1 phases and extended S phases. However, upon differentiation the durations of some phases of the cell cycle change and the cells
undergo a lengthened G1 phase. In order to better understand this shift in G1/S regulation we are investigating the role of the
retinoblastoma protein, the major regulator of the G1/S checkpoint. In its active state, the retinoblastoma protein is hyperphosphorylated,
causing it to repress E2F target genes through direct binding of the E2F transcription factor. I hypothesize that pluripotent hESC lack the
G1/S checkpoint and specifically, that the retinoblastoma protein remains hyperphosphorylated. Studying the differentiation pathway of
the ESC to neural stem cell (NSC) transition will allow us to elucidate regulatory changes in cell cycle proteins. First we determined
expression patterns of Rb effectors during the cell cycle of pluripotent hESC. In synchronized hESC, we found constitutive expression of
Cdk2 and periodic expression of Cyclin E over a single cell cycle. Our next step is to examine expression levels of the same proteins as
hESC differentiate to NSC in the presence of noggin. We hope to use these studies to further understand the link between differentiation
and the cell cycle.
Key Words Related to Project
retinoblastoma; stem cell cycle; differentiation
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Ronald
Advisor Email
rhart@rci.rutgers.edu
Hart
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Nelson Labs, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Michael Fremed is a School of Arts and Sciences senior majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring in Music.
Email Address
mfremed@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Danni
Last Name
Fu
Abstract Title
Viscosity, Entropy, and the Viscosity to Entropy Density Ratio - How Perfect is a Nucleonic Fluid?
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to explore the properties of nucleonic fluid, its viscosity and its viscosity to entropy density ratio. We start
out by understanding viscosity; it is the measurement of the resistance of a fluid which is being deformed by either shear stress or tensile
stress. The ―fluid‖ we are talking about here could either be liquid or gas. We find that the viscosity of a certain fluid can be represented
by the hard sphere model, which are impenetrable spheres that cannot overlap in space. From the hard spheres we find that viscosity is
independent of the density of the fluid. Next we look at the viscosity to density ratio of the fluid, which determines a perfect fluid. Perfect
fluids are defined to be fluids without shear stress, viscosity, or heat conduction. The viscosity to density ratio of water is 300, while that
of a perfect fluid should be nearly 1. We look under unclear matter to see if they can be considered perfect fluids.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Aram
Advisor Email
amekjian@physics.rutgers.edu
Mekjian
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Danni Fu is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Applied Physics and minoring in Biology.
Email Address
danfu@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Physics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Ximing
Last Name
Gao
Abstract Title
Supersonic Flow Over a Backward-Facing Step
Abstract
A backward-facing step is a geometry used to investigate a supersonic flow with separation and reattachment suitable for the analysis of
different aerodynamic phenomenon. In supersonic combustion ramjets, a stable flame-holder is critical in sustaining supersonic
combustion. The residence time for combustion proves to be a major issue due to the fact that fuel injection, mixing, and ignition all must
be done within milliseconds. The flow separation and reattachment generated from sudden expansion or compression caused by the
geometry of the backward-facing step, greatly influences the sustainment of combustion through the trapping of gas in recirculation
zones, thereby increasing fluid residence times. The basic flow physics of a non- reactant flow over a backward-facing step provides a
foundational concept for the overall complex flow involved in the flame holding systems. To understand and analyze the flow physics, a
backward facing step is tested in a supersonic wind tunnel at Mach = 3.5 where turbulent conditions and residence times are observed.
The flow field is observed using Schlieren to visualize the density gradients and Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) to measure the
velocity field. This experiment measures the strength of turbulence and the residence time of the recirculation zone under different step
heights ‗h‘ and a constant downstream length ‗L‘. Using the above methods, a relation is drawn between ‗L‘ and ‗h‘ (downstream
length/step height ratio) as a function of ‘h’ under a fixed boundary layer thickness ‘δ.’
Key Words Related to Project
Supersonic flow, backward facing step
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Tobias
Advisor Email
rossmann@jove.rutgers.edu
Rossmann
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Busch Campus, Engineering Building D-103
Other Students Involved
Nirvi Shah
Presenter Biography
Ximing Gao is a sophomore at the School of Engineering at Rutgers, majoring in Aerospace Engineering. Nirvi Shah is a sophomore at
the school of engineering at Rutgers University, majoring in Aerospace Engineering.
Email Address
gaoxm551@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Schoold of Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Leonid
Last Name
Garber
Abstract Title
Comparison of Physicochemical Properties and Degradation of Salicylic Acid-based Poly(anhydride-esters) Blends
Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as salicylic acid (SA) can be incorporated into polyanhydride backbones, creating drug
delivery systems with a large drug-loading capacity and susceptibility to hydrolytic degradation. Altering the polymer composition can
modify the release profile of the drug. Varying the hydrophobicity of the linker molecule in SA-derived poly(anhydride-esters) has been
shown to alter the physicochemical properties and degradation rates of the polymers. Previous studies have shown that using aliphatic
branched compounds such as diethylmalonic (DEM) linker have contributed to drug release periods of greater than 30 days, but only
initiated release after a lag time of several days. Using straight chain compounds in the polyanhydride backbone, such as the adipic
linker, forms polymers with shorter release periods and no lag time. To eliminate lag time in long-term release polymers and study the
physical hybridization of SA-derived poly(anhydride-esters), blends of SA-Adipic polymer and SA-DEM polymer were formed by
solvent casting in ratios of 25:75, 50:50, and 75:25. The polymer blends were characterized by 1H-NMR, GPC (molecular weight), DSC
(glass transition temperature), and TGA (decomposition temperature). The blends were then formulated into disks and hydrolytic
degradation studies were performed.
Key Words Related to Project
Degradable and Biocompatible Polymers
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kathryn
Advisor Email
keuhrich@rutgers.edu
Uhrich
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
610 Taylor Rd. Room 371 Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Leo Garber is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Chemistry. He has been working in the Uhrich lab since January
2010 and is currently completing his senior undergraduate thesis.
Email Address
lgarber@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Chemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Anahita
Last Name
Ghavami
Abstract Title
Combination of an mTOR and Autophagy Inhibitor Promotes Tumor Cell Death by Necroptosis
Abstract
In response to metabolic stress cells utilize autophagy as a means of survival, however under these same conditions autophagy also
promotes the survival of tumor cells. Tumor cell survival also depends on the activation of mTOR, a participant in the PI3K pathway,
which promotes cell growth and metabolism. By inhibiting both autophagy and mTOR with the drugs chloroquine and temsirolimus it
became possible to reverse this survival and kill the tumor cells. Once the tumor cells died it became necessary to determine whether this
form of death was necrosis or necroptosis induced. Necroptosis is signaled by two death receptors, RIP1K and RIP3K, and is inhibited by
necrostatin-1. Under combination treatment of chloroquine and temsirolimus, along with the knockdown of RIP3K, siRIP3K, the tumor
cells were able to make a recovery and grow back. This same result was observed when the combination drug treatment was combined
with necrostatin-1, only with better viability. Therefore, the induced form of cell death was shown to be necroptosis.
Key Words Related to Project
mTOR, autophagy, necroptosis, tumor cells
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
201A
Advisor
Eileen
Advisor Email
whiteei@umdnj.edu
White
Time
10- 11 a.m.
Panel Name
Perspectives in Biomedical Engineering
Advisor Address
195 Little Albany Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Anahita Ghavami is a Junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and minoring in
History and Middle Eastern Studies.
Email Address
aghavami@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Peter
H
Last Name
Giandonato
Abstract Title
Differences between in Ethanol Intake in Ephrin A5 Knockout and Wild-type Mice.
Abstract
Ephrin A5 is a ligand that regulates the axonal outgrowth of dopaminergic pathways. One major dopaminergic pathway in the brain is the
mesolimbic pathway. This pathway is involved in the mediation of behavior that is associated with reinforcement and motivation to seek
reward. This is accomplished by transmission of the neurotransmitter dopamine along axonal pathways that are regulated by Ephrin A5
during the early stages of development. An absence of Ephrin A5 may result in a dearth in dopaminergic axonal outgrowth which
essentially helps frame the mesolimbic pathway, directly affecting the transmission of dopamine and the mediation of reward. Recently,
we have been able to asses Ephrin A5 knockout mice behaviorally and neurochemically throughout development. Due to Ephrin A5‘s
role in the mesolimbic pathway, we suspect that mice lacking Ephrin A5 would respond differently to drug reinforcement. In this study,
mice consumed ethanol in a liquid diet for a period of two weeks. The liquid diet was comprised of a premix (Research Diets, New
Brunswick, NJ), maltodextrin, corn oil, distilled water, and ethanol. Ethanol percentage started at 3% and was gradually increased to
4.5% during training. Preliminary results during training in the consumption of ethanol- containing diet do not suggest any genotypic
differences of ethanol consumption. However, preference tests have not been conducted for alcohol-free liquid diet vs. alcohol-containing
liquid diet. We suspect that these preference tests may still reveal differences in ethanol consumption between Ephrin A5 wild-type and
knockout mice.
Key Words Related to Project
ephrins, axonal guidance, mesolimbic, ethanol
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
George
Advisor Email
gcwagner@rci.rutgers.edu
Wagner
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road, Rm 229 Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Peter Giandonato is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Geography. He works in Dr.
George Wagner's Neuropsychopharmacology laboratory which researches Parkinson's disease and Autism through mouse models. Peter
has been a United States Marine since 2003 and has served multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is a two time Navy and
Marine Corps Achievement award winner. Peter plans to attend Graduate and study Behavioral Neuroscience.
Email Address
peterhg@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Siow Chong
Last Name
Goh
Abstract Title
New RNAi Lines Functioning in Drosophila Hematopoiesis
Abstract
Many aspects of vertebrate hematopoiesis are conserved in Drosophila and thus larval hematopoiesis represents an
model. The
‐ excellent
‐
lymph gland is the larval hematopoietic organ of Drosophila. Zfrp8 was originally identified based on its lymph gland overgrowth
phenotype. More recently we have found that it is essential
‐ for the maintenance of hematopoietic stem cells. Loss of functionofzfrp8
causes enormous hyperplasia of the lymph glands, increased proliferation of all three hemocytes and differentiation of a large number of
also display an increase in the
lamellocytes, severe growth delay, and lethality at the 3rd instar larval stage. Heterozygous zfrp8 animals
‐
lymph gland
size. We performed a screen to identify genes on the 2nd and 3rd chromosomes that genetically modify the
‐
zfrp8heterozygous phenotype. Genes that showed changes in lymph gland phenotypes when trans heterozygous with zfrp8 were selected
for post screening analysis. We originally found 16 chromosomal regions modulating the zfrp8dominant phenotype in trans. We studied
the lymph gland phenotype of 32 genes uncovered by these deletions. We drove expression of the corresponding RNAis by the tubulin
general driver, or, specifically in hemocytes, under the control ofPxn-Gal4. We also expressed GFP under the same drivers.
Key Words Related to Project
drosophila, hematopoiesis, RNAi
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Ruth
Advisor Email
steward@mbcl.rutgers.edu
Steward
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Waksman Inst of Microbiology, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020
Other Students Involved
Kritika Jawdekar
Presenter Biography
Siow Chong Goh is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences. He is an international student from Malaysia majoring in Cell Biology
and Neuroscience. Kritika Jawdekar is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Biological Science and minoring in South
Asian Studies.
Email Address
manford@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Andrew S
Last Name
Greenwald
Abstract Title
Evaluating A Novel Polymer Blend for Use in Bone Regeneration Using Osteocalcin as a Metric
Abstract
Over 740,000 Americans annually require the surgical replacement of a joint via artificial implants. Traditional thought says that bones
grow naturally onto these artificial implants. Recent investigations have focused on improving the surface of artificial joints so that they
are more conductive to bone growth in an attempt to alleviate some of the common complications of joint replacement including
localized pain and poor seating of the artificial joint in the adjoining skeleton. My project is the investigation of a biocompatible
electrospun scaffold composed of a polymer blend. Physical features of the scaffold enhance cell adhesion and allow for a localized
delivery of salicylic acid, a form of aspirin that imbibes localized anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and analgesic traits. The process of
electrospinning creates a macramé of micron width fibers that are specialized for cellular growth. The fibers are created with a backbone
of poly(Lactic-Glycolic) acid (PLGA), a high-molecular weight, biocompatible polymer that is FDA approved for use in biomedical
devices, and salicylic acid anhydride. We are using cell culture of rat osteoblast-like UMR106 cells that synthesize and secrete
osteocalcin (bone Gla protein) as the primary indicator of the ability of our scaffolds to enhance bone growth. Osteocalcin is the most
abundant non-collagenous protein in bone and is involved in the coordination of calcium ions, during formation of hydroxyapatite, the
crystallized form of calcium phosphate in bone. We are using SDS-PAGE, ELISA, and RT-PCR for the detection of osteocalcin in
culture media and cell extracts.
Key Words Related to Project
Bone, Biomaterials, Osteocalcin, Tissue engineering
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Patricia
Advisor Email
buckendp@rci.rutgers.edu
Buckendahl
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
607 Allison Road, Piscataway, NJ
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Andrew S. Greenwald is a School of Arts and Science Honors Program Senior double majoring in Molecular Biology & Biochemistry
and Art History. He has been part of the Uhrich Group for two years and the Buckendahl Group for one year. Next year, he will attend
the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey - New Jersey Medical School in pursuit of a Doctor of Medicine degree.
Email Address
andgreen@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and Art Histo
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Ilya
Last Name
Grinberg
Abstract Title
Regulation of Neuronal Function by BDNF-Induced Neuropeptide Orphanin FQ
Abstract
BDNF plays a significant role in the survival and differentiation of neurons, neurogenesis, and LTP and memory. Like most proteins,
however, over-expression of BDNF could cause deleterious problems such as epilepsy. In order for BDNF levels to not get too high,
there must be a protein that inhibits its production and effects on neurons. We propose that protein is OFQ, a neuropeptide also known as
nociceptin. In order to test this hypothesis, we knocked out the specific receptor for both molecules, trkB receptor for BDNF and NOP
receptor for OFQ, and then examined the effects each ligand had. Assuming that there is a feedback loop, we will then see if OFQ affects
BDNF through a common set of pathways. Western blots will also be performed to see if OFQ inhibits BDNF on kinase activation. If it
is determined that there is no feedback loop, and BDNF and OFQ work separately to affect dendritic morphology, then we will see how
OFQ effects dendritic morphology.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Smita
Advisor Email
varia@umdnj.edu
Thakker-Varia
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 675 Hoes Lane West, RWJSPH 357A Piscataway, NJ 08854-5635
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ilya Grinberg is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring in Psychology.
Email Address
igrinber@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Jonathan P
Last Name
Grova
Abstract Title
Flying Insects and Flapping Robots
Abstract
Ornithopers are aircraft which fly by flapping their wings in a periodic fashion. They are often modeled after insects, which have similar
flight mechanisms. The flapping of wings has advantages over a traditional aircraft‘s propulsion system because precise maneuvering
can easily be achieved and the method of flight is more efficient for its common uses. Developing Ornithopers has a lot of military,
security and defense applications; one application/example includes having these flyers serve as surveillance where travel by foot is
difficult. Successfully constructing the Ornithoper involves insect flight studies, fluid and mechanical analysis, and building a
prototype. The motion of insect flight is studied by analyzing high speed videos. Fluid analysis is achieved by using ANSYS software to
model Navier-Stokes equations. Fluid analysis is necessary because the behavior of the fluid around the flapping robot differs greatly
from traditional flying air craft. Another initial stage of the project is to design a two channel Ornithopter, using the simplest parameters
as possible. The two channel design is the simplest form that the Ornithopter can take, utilizing only unidirectional flapping of its wings
for lift and forward momentum, and also a rudder for steering. After this prototype proves successful, successive models can be built.
Results of analysis and prototype will be discussed.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mitsunori
Advisor Email
denda@rutgers.edu
Denda
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
98 Brett Rd., Piscataway, NJ 08854-8058, U.S.A
Other Students Involved
Diana Sobers
Presenter Biography
Jonathan Grova is a junior at the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
at the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Email Address
jgrova@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2012
Diana Sobers is a junior
Major
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Sammy
Last Name
Gulrajani
Abstract Title
Role of Salicylic Acid Based Polymers to Prevent Scar Tissue
Abstract
A common medical problem that results from surgeries is fibrous adhesions, which can lead to chronic pain, bowel obstruction and
infertility. Biodegradable adhesion barrier devices can be used to deliver non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as salicylic acid that
may help prevent adhesion formation. Our group has developed polyAspirin, a class of polymers with salicylic acid chemically
incorporated in its backbone that hydrolytically degrades to release its bioactive component: salicylic acid. These polymers provide
controlled, sustained release of salicylic acid with the rate of drug release controlled by polymer composition. Electrospinning, a
technique to make fibrous mats, was used to create barrier devices from these polyAspirin blends. In vitro studies were performed to
monitor salicylic acid release from the devices over a period of 14 days. Future work will include studies to determine efficacy of the
barrier devices in vivo.
Key Words Related to Project
polymers, chemistry, scar tissue, fibrous adhesions
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kathryn
Advisor Email
keuhrich@rutgers.edu
Uhrich
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
My name is Sammy Gulrajani, and I am a junior in the School of Engineering. I am majoring in Chemical engineering and minoring in
Mathematics. I have been doing research for over 8 months now and I hope to be doing it next year as well.
Email Address
sammyg1@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Rutgers
Class Year
2012
Major
Chemical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Ali
S
Last Name
Hadi
Abstract Title
Development of a Human Skin Equivalent to Screen the Percutaneous Permeability of Compounds
Abstract
The skin is the primary route of exposure of the body to transdermal drugs and different chemicals, such as pesticides and warfare agents.
Therefore, understanding of permeation of different chemicals into and across skin is important. In order to evaluate skin permeation,
human skin samples obtained from cadavers, skin biopsies as well as surgical reductions are often used. However, the supply of such
human skin samples is low and the samples are expensive. In addition, the samples exhibit large variability in compound permeation data
between donors and hence other alternatives are being explored. One approach being explored in order to gain a better understanding of
the transdermal permeation process, is the use of artificial three dimensional skin constructs termed ―human skin equivalents‖ (HSEs).
HSEs are prepared from a combination of cultured human skin cells — human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and human keratinocytes
(HEKn) — and extracellular matrix components under controlled culture conditions. These models exhibit considerable morphological
similarity to those of human skin. We cultured each type of cell individually prior to seeding them on a collagen dermis cultured with
optimized media containing specific growth factors. After the tissues were cultured, permeation studies were carried out using vertical
jacketed Franz cells and samples are collected at different time intervals over a 24 hour time period. These data were compared with
those for human skin samples.
Key Words Related to Project
permeability; skin equivalents; transdermal; skin
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Bozena
Advisor Email
michniak@biology.rutgers.edu
Michniak-Kohn
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ali Hadi is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences planning to major in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minor in Middle
Eastern Studies. Ali is a research assistant at the Lab for Drug Delivery. He is also a member of various student organizations on campus,
including the Muslim Student Association and Rutgers AMSA (American Medical Student Association).
Email Address
alihadi@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Eric
J
Last Name
Hagee
Abstract Title
Self-Diffusion Temperature Dependence of an Ionic Liquid Polymer Gel Electrolyte
Abstract
Ionic liquids are salts liquid at room temperature. Ionic liquids have a great many possible applications, including, but not limited to,
batteries and solar cells. The addition of a small amount of polymer to an ionic liquid can be used to make an Ionic Liquid Polymer Gel
Electrolyte (IL-PGE). The IL-PGE is a gel solid, and thus more easily handled than an ionic liquid, but still behaves physically like a
liquid in many aspects. This work investigates a previously synthesized IL-PGE that contains an ionic liquid, N-butyl-Nmethylpyrollidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide ([P14+][Ntf2-]), and 5 % wt. by volume of a polymer, PVDF-HFP. This IL-PGE
is a physical solid, but moves like a liquid on a molecular scale. Pulse gradient spin echo (PG-SE) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
was used to study the self-diffusion temperature dependence of the constituent ions of the ionic liquid in the IL-PGE. This data when
combined with other data can be used to give a picture of the charge transfer behavior of the IL-PGE. This is necessary to understand if
an IL-PGE (or ionic liquid) is to be used in an electrochemical device.
Key Words Related to Project
NMR, Ionic Liquid, Energy
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
201A
Advisor
Edward
Advisor Email
ed.castner@rutgers.edu
Castner
Time
2- 3 p.m.
Panel Name
Perspectives in Natural and Physical Science
Advisor Address
SAS-Chemistry and Chemical Biology, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8066
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Eric Hagee is a senior Chemistry major in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program. A native of Glassboro, NJ, he has been
engaged in undergraduate research for two years. In the fall, he will begin graduate school to pursue a Ph.D. in chemistry. At Rutgers,
he was a member of the Rutgers Marching Band and Pep Band and a participant in the Rutgers Chemistry Society Outreach Program.
Email Address
ejhagee@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Chemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Apoorva
Last Name
Halikere
Abstract Title
Curcumin, Cisplatin and Metformin Targeting Ovarian Cancer Stem Cells
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) have been widely explored for their ability to regenerate human tissues and have been explored as a potential
therapeutic approach. They are distinguished by an enhanced capacity for proliferation, long-term self-renewal ability, and the potential
to differentiate tumor cells that do not have CSC characteristics. CSC are resistant to treatment and are capable of re-establishing cancer.
As opposed to conventional cancer therapies that initially shrink cancers by killing tumor populations that do not have potential for selfrenewal, the CSC-targeted approaches strip the tumor‘s ability to generate cancer cell progeny. It is critical to target cancer stem cell
death specifically, and not tumor populations alone, in order to abolish tumor growth in ovarian cancer. Various drugs such as
metformin, curcumin and cisplatin have been explored as potential anti-tumor agents. Human ovarian cancer cells, A2780 and C200, will
be cultured as a monolayer in RPMI 1640 medium and as a spheroid culture in medium with insulin, EGF, FGF, and BSA. A2780 and
C200 are treated with graded concentrations of the metformin/curcumin and metformin/cisplatin combinations. Concentration dependent
treatments of these ovarian cancer cells are done over several days. The optimal concentration of metformin/curcumin or
metformin/cisplatin to eliminate ovarian cancer stem cells can be determined by using the ALDEFLUOR® reagent system. This is a
method to identify human stem/progenitor cells on the basis of their aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity. The Aldefluor assay is
followed by Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting to identify cancer stem cells based on ALDH activity.
Key Words Related to Project
cancer stem cells, curcumin, cisplatin, metformin, aldehyde dehydrogenase
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Dunne
Advisor Email
Fong@biology.rutgers.edu
Fong
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
B424 Nelson Biological Laboratories 604 Allison Road Piscataway, NJ 08854-8082
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Apoorva Halikere is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring in Psychology.
She is enthusiastic about science and hopes to pursue a career in clinical research after graduation. She is also passionate about
community work and is currently the president of both Reach Out and Read and the Rutgers Chapter of Deborah Hospital Foundation.
She has been working in Dr. Fong‘s lab since fall 2009.
Email Address
apoorva4@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Tahia
Last Name
Haque
Abstract Title
Analysis of Fat Mutants
Abstract
Fat is a Drosophila tumor suppressor that is part of the Fat-Hippo-Warts signaling pathway, which utilizes morphogen gradients to affect
downstream gene expression, ultimately controlling growth and planar cell polarity. Five individual deletions in the Fat intracellular
domain region are tested for functionality and localization. The fat mutant n-terminus is tagged with V5, so an antibody stain shows
subcellular localization. The five mutants, ΔA through ΔE, all localize normally. Functionality is tested by inserting these mutants into a
fat mutant background to discern the effects on adult flies. V5ΔB and V5ΔE flies experienced a decrease in eclosion of adult flies, while
V5ΔD flies failed to eclose. Methods used are immunostaining, in which third instar larvae were dissected by tearing and inverting the
heads in chilled Drosophila Ringers solution, and genetic fly crosses. Further experiments are necessary to determine at what point during
the development (or lack thereof) the growth is disrupted.
Key Words Related to Project
Fat, drosophila, signaling pathway
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
201A
Advisor
Kenneth
Advisor Email
irvine@waksman.rutgers.edu
Irvine
Time
10- 11 a.m.
Panel Name
Perspectives in Biomedical Engineering
Advisor Address
Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Waksman Institute, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Tahia Haque is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences, majoring in Biological Sciences and Philosophy, and minoring in
Chemistry.
Email Address
tahia@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Biological Sciences, Philosophy
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Ryan
C
Last Name
Hard
Abstract Title
Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Neural Stem Cells into Neurons in Fibrous Electrospun Scaffolds for Spinal
Cord Therapy.
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have the ability to proliferate indefinitely and to differentiate into cells comprising the three
embryonic germ layers. Such properties make hESCs prospective candidates for stem cell therapy to treat spinal cord injury (SCI)
because the stem cells, once differentiated into neurons, would be able to integrate into the spinal cord of the patient and promote partial
recovery. However, current methods for stem cell therapy to treat SCI involve injecting cells into the area of injury, which reduces the
survival of the cells due to the toxic environment surrounding the injury. We propose the use of hESC-derive neural stem cells in
conjunction with polymeric fibrous scaffolds will enhance cell survival due to the microenvironment the scaffolds provide. Fibrous
scaffolds can differentiate cells further before transplantation, and the polymer chemistry and architecture can promote differentiation.
We examine the polymer chemistry and architecture of electrospun fibrous scaffolds to determine what conditions effectively differentiate
hESC into neurons. hESC-derived neural stem cells were passaged onto glass cover slips coated with different polymers to determine the
role of polymer composition on differentiation, as well as to identify candidate polymers for three-dimensional study. Immunostaining for
the neural stem cell markers nestin and PAX6, as well as neuronal marker TUJ-1, was used to characterize cell phenotypes and identify
the percentage of cells which differentiated into neurons. By identifying the conditions for effective neuronal differentiation of hESCs,
scaffolds populated with neurons could be potential candidates for spinal cord therapy after further investigations in vivo.
Key Words Related to Project
neuronal, therapy, scaffold, spinal
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Prabhas
Advisor Email
moghe@rci.rutgers.edu
Moghe
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Biomedical Engineering Building, Busch Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ryan Hard is a junior at the School of Engineering in the dual degree program with majors in Biomedical Engineering and Mathematics,
as well as a minor in Psychology.
Email Address
rhard@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Biomedical Engineering, Mathematics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Allison L
Last Name
Hicks
Abstract Title
Genus-Specific Substitution Rate Variability Among Picornaviruses
Abstract
The Picornaviridae family is a diverse collection of (+)ssRNA viruses including the human pathogens poliovirus, rhinoviruses, and
hepatitis A virus. Understanding the evolutionary dynamics and constraints of these viruses is a critical step in the development of
treatment, vaccine, and eradication plans. Picornaviruses have been shown to have higher nucleotide substitution rates than other singlestranded RNA viruses, but there have been no comparisons of evolutionary rates within this broad family. We combined our own
Bayesian coalescent analyses of VP1 regions from four picornaviruses with 21 published VP1 rates to produce the first within-family
meta-analysis of viral evolutionary rates. Although there was limited data available for other genes, we were also able to perform a
smaller scale analysis, comparing four of our own rate estimates of the RNA polymerase P3D gene to three published P3D rates.
Enteroviruses are evolving, on average, a half order of magnitude faster than members of other genera within Picornaviridae. These
results invalidate the assumption of shared evolutionary dynamics among related viruses within a family that underlies current estimates
of long-term viral evolution.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Siobain
Advisor Email
duffy@aesop.rutgers.edu
Duffy
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
316 Foran Hall, 59 Dudley Rd., New Brunswick, NJ
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Allison Hicks is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Microbiology.
Email Address
alhicks@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Microbiology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Tranchau L
Last Name
Hoang
Abstract Title
Different Roles of CANA and CMET in Drosophila Meiosis
Abstract
Meiosis is the process in which a diploid cell undergoes two consecutive divisions to give four haploid cells. Defects in chromosome
segregation during meiosis lead to aneuploidy, which causes the deaths of embryos or diseases such as Down syndrome in human beings.
Dynamic interactions between chromosomes and spinldes, which are made of microtubules subunits, are required for meiosis to proceed
properly. Chromosomes attach to spindle microtubules by kinetochores, DNA-protein complexes that assemble at the centromeres.
Therefore, kinetochores are thought to play important roles in chromosome movements. CENP-E is an important protein from the
kinesin family that associates with kinetochores. CENP-meta (CMET) and CENP-ana (CANA) are homologues of CENP-E in
Drosophila melanogaster. Both CANA and CMET are composed of a kinesin motor domain, a tail domain, and a coiled coil region. It
was previously showed that CMET associates with kinetochore during all stages of mitotic cell cycle and cmet mutants cause lethality in
early embryoes. Because there is not much research about CANA and CMET in meiosis, my project is to characterize different functions
of CANA and CMET in meiosis. Even though CMET plays an important role suring mitotsis, we hypothyesize that CMET and CANA
are redundancy in meiosis. By using the P element excision method, cana mutant was obtained to be characterized. cana mutant shows a
mild effect on chromosome segragation with a low percentage of non-disjunction. From the confocal images of oocytes arrested at
metaphase I, cana mutant and cmet mutant show similar defects on spindles. This may suggest the similar roles of cana and cmet genes in
meiosis or one is able to rescue the other in function. By studying the functions of CANA and CMET in meiosis, we can undertstand
more about the function of kinetochore in chromosome movement during meiosis.
Key Words Related to Project
CANA and CMET or CENP-E
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kim
Advisor Email
mckim@rci.rutgers.edu
McKim
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Room 206, Waksman Institute, Rutgers University, 190 Frelinghuysen RD, Piscataway NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
My name is Tranchau Hoang, a sophomore of School of Arts and Sciences. I am majoring in Genetics and minoring in Mathematics. My
expected year of graduation is 2013.
Email Address
tranchau@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Genetics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Yaejee
Last Name
Hong
Abstract Title
Identification of Requirements for Tropomyosin Function in Schizosaccharomyces Pombe
Abstract
Tropomyosin is a coiled-coil protein which binds to actin filament along their length in both muscle and non-muscle cells. In the fission
yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, tropomyosin is encoded by a single gene called cdc8 and consists of 161 amino acid residues. S.
pombe tropomyosin (SpTm) is essential for cell cycle, cytokinesis and septation. However, the exact function of SpTm is not yet known.
In order to investigate how SpTm affects actin assembly, we studied the effects of overexpression of SpTm in fixed and living cells.
Overexpression of SpTm at low levels is known to accumulate multinucleate cells but have little influence on overall cell survival and
morphology. Here we show the effects of overexpression of SpTms at medium levels on cytokinesis, septation and actin organization. On
the basis that numbers in excess of the wildtype values indicate defects in cytokinesis and actin organization, we measured the growth
rate and percentage of cells with multinucleate nuclei in the cells transfected with thiamine-repressible nmt1 promoters. We also
microscopically analyzed the actin cytoskeleton and septum of the transfected yeast cells to identify any abnormalities in the actin
assembly. Our results show that overexpression of SpTm does not hamper cell growth and that further analysis under the microscope may
reveal possible defects in other cytoskeletal functions or structures.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Sarah
Advisor Email
hitchcoc@umdnj.edu
Hitchcock-DeGreg
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Room 331 Piscataway. NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Yaejee Hong is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Genetics.
Email Address
yaehong@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Ashley L
Last Name
Jennings
Abstract Title
Mobilization of Arsenic from Sediment to Groundwater by Arsenate and Iron Reducing Bacteria
Abstract
The contamination of potable water with arsenic has been shown to cause health effects around the world. Studies in Inner Mongolia,
China, West Bengal, India, and Bangladesh have reported numerous cases of arsenic poisoning, arsenical dermatosis, skin lesions, and
several cancers linked to tubewell arsenic concentrations. A major source of arsenic in groundwater is from natural weathering of
bedrock, but anthropogenic activities have contributed to arsenic contamination into groundwater. It has been reported that arsenic is
closely linked with iron oxide and oxyhydroxide minerals, as well as adsorption to clay minerals. Microorganisms have been described
that can metabolize arsenic to produce energy by redox reactions or can detoxify arsenic by methylation. However, there have been only a
limited number of studies that integrate the microbiological to the geochemical aspects, both of which are important factors on the
biogeochemical cycling of arsenic. In this study, microcosms were established under three different conditions that enriched for arsenic
and iron reducing bacteria. Sediment from Crosswicks Creek, NJ containing elevated concentrations of arsenic and iron was used as the
source material. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analysis suggests that each condition is selecting for a different microbial
community structure. Preliminary Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy results suggest that the bacteria present
are involved with the release of arsenic from iron minerals. Understanding the role the microorganisms and iron minerals play in the
release of toxic arsenic into the environment can aid in the development of more effective management of arsenic in wells and aquifers.
Key Words Related to Project
iron, arsenic reducing bacteria
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lily
Advisor Email
lyoung@aesop.rutgers.edu
Young
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
59 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8520
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ashley Jennings is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biochemistry.
Email Address
ashleyj2@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Janice
K
Last Name
Jeschke
Abstract Title
The Impact on the Mechanical Properties of Changing the Cellular Concentration in an In-Vitro Acupuncture Model
Abstract
The practice of acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to relieve chronic pain and other illnesses. Needles are inserted into the
body at various acupuncture points along pathways in the body. However, there has not been a direct correlation discovered between the
acupuncture points and neural connections or physiological entities. Recent research has demonstrated that loose connective tissue,
comprised primarily of collagen and fibroblasts, specifically attaches to and winds around the acupuncture needle during therapeutic
manipulation. It is hypothesized that the cells are stimulated mechanically to initiate some of the therapeutic responses. In this study, we
used green fluorescent protein (GFP) labeled fibroblast cells entrapped in a collagen gel to emulate the loose connective tissue, and
subjected the ‗tissue‘ to acupuncture in vitro. We varied cellular concentrations to determine the impact of the cellular network on the
physical properties of the tissue. Gels containing 100,000-2,000,000 cells were needled, while recording the evolution of collagen
alignment with polarized light microscopy. The images were used to identify the number of revolutions before failure. Preliminary results
suggest that at high concentrations, the cellular network shields the gel from failure.
Key Words Related to Project
Acupuncture, Biomechanics, Tissue
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
shreiber@rci.rutgers.edu
Shreiber
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
599 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Janice Jeschke is a sophomore at the School of Engineering, majoring in Biomedical Engineering.
Email Address
jajeschk@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Ian
H
Last Name
Johnston
Abstract Title
The Juxtaposition of Quantum Dots to Fluorescent Dyes as a Terminal Step Label in a Microfluidic Immunoassay Device
Abstract
My work will be comparing and contrasting the means of producing the measurable tag that is essential to immunoassay microfluidic
devices. In the last step of the immunoassay, it is essential to mark the molecule of interest with a measurable tag. Currently, chemical
fluorescent dyes are attached to the specified molecules and measured using flow cytometry. I will be comparing the fluorescent dye
Phycoerythrin (PE dye)with an alternative labeling substance called quantum dots; quantum dots are inorganic nanocrystals that present
particular fluorescence characteristics dependent upon particle size, composition, etc. They are distinctly different from the fluorescent
dyes in that they inherently exhibit emission wavelengths over on the range of the visible color spectrum as opposed to the unstable
nature of fluorescent dyes. I wish to explore the use of quantum dots as a fluorescence label to determine whether they may serve as a
brighter fluorophore than the chemical fluorescent dye such as PE leading to a higher sensitivity immunoassay. Quantitatively, I wish to
establish a ratio between the two types of labels which will help depict the advantageous nature of the quantum dots. Furthermore,
produce standard means of predicting the longevity and intensity of the two labels.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jeffrey
Advisor Email
jdzahn@rci.rutgers.edu
Zahn
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
575 Easton Avenue Apt 14E
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ian Johnston is a junior at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering. He has specific interest in Biomechanics,
Microfluidics, and Tissue Engineering. After receiving his bachelors degree, he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Tissue Engineering and wishes
to establish himself in the field of medical device design and fabrication.
Email Address
ianjru@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Rutgers
Class Year
2012
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Mihir
M
Last Name
Joshi
Abstract Title
Design of de novo Collagen-Like Hetero-trimers Using Charge-Based Negative Design
Abstract
Collagen and collagenous proteins comprise roughly 35% of gross bodily protein content, and are the primary structural components of
soft bone, cartilage, and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Collagen rapidly self-assembles into a triple helix and higher-order fibrillar
structures in vivo, attaining a high degree of stability in physiological conditions. Due to its prevalence in the body, defects in collagen
can result in connective tissue disorders; chief among these is osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), or brittle bone disorder. In addition,
collagenous biomaterials are a subject of exploration in drug delivery research, due to synthetic collagen‘s high binding affinity with
natural ECM proteins and the basement membrane, as well as its low immunogenicity.
Current structural work with collagen focuses
on driving the self-assembly of triple helices in solution. As most natural collagens are hetero-trimeric, the bulk of work tries to specify
formation of synthetic hetero-trimers. Our lab builds off existing work using charge-pairs to guide the synthesis of specific and thermostable triple helices by placing charged residues at key positions in component peptides. Residue placement is staggered among the three
peptides A, B, and C such that only an A-B-C hetero-trimer will be free of destabilizing repulsive interactions. Residues are placed as
substitutions in a highly stable (Pro-Hyp-Gly)10 peptide, using either arginine (R) or aspartate (D). Preliminary results suggest that
aspartate is a better candidate for specifying formation due to its comparatively inflexible side chain, which prevents charged regions
from flexing away from each other to mitigate repulsion.
Key Words Related to Project
protein, collagen, protein design, protein structure
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Vikas
Advisor Email
nanda@cabm.rutgers.edu
Nanda
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
CABM 207, 679 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Mihir Joshi is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and minoring in Economics.
Mihir has been working with the Nanda Lab since the fall of 2009, joining the lab's collagen design project.
Email Address
mihirj@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Molecular Biology & Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Neal
A
Last Name
Kamdar
Abstract Title
Electrophoretic DNA Fractionation and Recovery via Microfluidic Devices Composed of an Agarose Membrane.
Abstract
Optimizing the purification and fractionation of DNA fragments is crucial for biological studies that use polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
amplification and capillary electrophoresis. PCR is used in almost all types of genetic testing including DNA cloning and sequencing,
forensic paternity testing, and the diagnosis of diseases. A method for purifying and fractionating DNA to enhance the accuracy of
biological studies is the focus of this project. A microfluidic device has been fabricated to carry out DNA fractionation through the use of
electrophoretic and diffusive forces. First a permeable agarose membrane is created within a microfluidic device. Then, fluorescent DNA
is infused into the channel and an electric field is created to pull the DNA through the porous membrane. Various sizes of DNA are seen
to enter the agarose membrane and time-lapse videos have been recorded showing this electrophoretic transport. Samples of purified
DNA will be collected from the outlet and gel electrophoresis will be conducted to quantify the changes in DNA fragment size.
Key Words Related to Project
BioMEMS, microfluidics, DNA, agarose
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jeffrey
Advisor Email
jdzahn@rci.rutgers.edu
Zahn
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
599 Taylor Road Piscataway, NJ BME #311
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Neal Kamdar is a senior at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering. His areas of interest include BioMEMS and
human cell culturing.
Email Address
nakamdar@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2011
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Sudha
Last Name
Karthigeyan
Abstract Title
A Comparative Strategy for Registration of Breast Dynamic Contrast Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Abstract
Dynamic Contrast Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (DCE-MRI) is a widely used method for breast cancer detection and
diagnosis. Because multiple time point images are acquired during the MRI scan, the images are susceptible to artifacts caused by
movement of the patient and even subtle movements such as displacement of the chest wall due to breathing or the heart beating.
Because good alignment of the images is necessary for accurate computerized analysis of the DCE-MR images, methods to align, or
register, the images are needed. In this study, we use an intensity-based elastic registration method to deform the post contrast images for
better alignment with the pre contrast image for each patient. On a dataset of 50 patients, through qualitative and quantitative results, we
show that intensity-based elastic deformation improves image alignment over no registration. These results indicate the need for DCEMR image registration before computerized detection and diagnosis of breast cancer.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Anant
Advisor Email
Time
Panel Name
Madabhushi
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sudha Karthigeyan is a sophomore in the School of Engineering , majoring in biomedical engineering. She is a member of the Laboratory
for Computational Imaging and Bioinformatics, which is directed by Dr. Anant Madabhushi.
Email Address
sukarthi@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
Rutgers University - School 2013
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Arkady
Last Name
Khaykin
Abstract Title
Role of Antimicrobial Peptide for the Development of Decreasing Pathogenic Resistance
Abstract
The use of bacteriocins as antimicrobials has been effective in inhibiting the growth of such pathogenic bacteria as L.monocytogenes, G.
vaginalis and S. agalactiae. Although many bacteriocins, such as nisin, are commonly and effectively used today to inhibit microbial
growth, antimicrobial resistance has been developing over time to such popular peptides. Thus, new peptides must be discovered to
lessen adaptation for pathogenic survival. One common organism for the extraction of a specific type of bacteriocin is Bacillus
amyloliquefaciens, which is known to produce the antimicrobial peptide subtilosin. To test whether subtilosin, if extracted in large
amounts and in different concentrations, can be effective against Micrococcus luteus and Listeria monocytogenes, bacterial cell culture,
protein precipitation, column chromatography and well diffusion assays were respectively conducted to observe for a zone of inhibition
made by the peptide of interest. After completion of the well diffusion assays, results correlated heavily that subtilosin has antimicrobial
activity if extracted in large amounts and in different concentrations. This led to the current research investigating how efficiently
subtilosin can work with other antimicrobial substances such as poly-lysine and glycerol monolaurate in a synergistic manner. Ultimately,
this will allow us to design an optimal combination of antimicrobials, thus lessening the likelihood of the pathogens developing
antimicrobial resistance to subtilosin.
Key Words Related to Project
Synergistic Antimicrobial development
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mikhail
Advisor Email
tchikindas@aesop.rutgers.edu
Chikindas
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
65 Dudley Road,New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Arkady Khaykin is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Biological Sciences. Due to his interest in biology he has
chosen to be a Dentist. Hi is currently doing microbiological research at the Food Science department and plans on doing research in
microbiology before attending dental school.
Email Address
akhaykin@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Biology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Jennifer S
Last Name
Komaiko
Abstract Title
Potential of Monoazo Synthetic Dyes as Optical Probes to Measure Food Quality Parameters
Abstract
Monoazo synthetic dyes are a set of food dyes that contain the functional group R-N=N-R'. When excited with light it is possible for the
molecule to rotate around the bond between the nitrogens. We would like to use this rotation as a means to measure viscosity, an
important food quality parameter. When the dye is placed in a more viscous solution, rotation occurs less frequently around this bond and
the spectrum is directly influenced. Preliminary research has been conducted with Sunset Yellow, a monoazo synthetic dye, and the
results show that when viscosity is altered by changing the temperature of glycerol solutions the intensity of the spectra is affected. An
increase in viscosity leads to an increase in intensity of the fluorescence emission spectrum. More research will be conducted to find
correlations between spectra and viscosity without having temperature involved by using different concentrations of glycerol:water
solutions. Sunset yellow is just one of many monazo synthetic dyes so the research will also be extended to Tartrazine and Allulra Red,
two other members of the monoazo synthetic dyes family. If it is found that these synthetic dyes can be used as a probe for viscosity then
practical applications to measure food quality parameters of foods can be developed; an example of a practical application would be
online manufacturing testing of viscosity using spectrophotometers and correlating to the emission spectra of the dye.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Richard
Advisor Email
rdl@echo.rutgers.edu
Ludescher
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jennifer Komaiko is a junior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Food Science and minoring in
Chemistry. She was an Aresty Research Assistant last year and this year continued her research with help from the Dunbar Funds of
Excellence provided by the Associate Alumni of Douglass College.
Email Address
jkomaiko@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2012
Major
Food Science
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Arvind
Last Name
Konkimalla
Abstract Title
Purification of Bacterial Toxin Proteins
Abstract
It was a landmark finding that bacteria contain cytoskeletons, and as in eukaryotic cells, the bacterial cytoskeleton is essential for
maintenance of cell shape, cell division and the movement of DNA. Two of these bacterial cytoskeletons, MreB and FtsZ, have been
extensively studied recently and have been recognized as putative targets for antimicrobial therapy. Our preliminary work has shown that
an E.coli toxin protein, YpjF, causes cell growth arrest and abnormal cell shape by directly interacting with FtsZ and MreB to disrupt
their function. Because of the polymerization form that is required for the function of MreB and FtsZ, we focus this study on the effects
of YpjF on the polymerization of MreB and FtsZ in vitro and characterize the conditions that regulate its monomer-to polymer assembly
reaction, in order to find the concentration of YpjF necessary for efficient inhibition of the polymerization of FtsZ and MreB. We will
purify the YpjF, FtsZ and MreB proteins and the polymerization reaction will be determined by a sedimentation method The nature of
the polymer will be investigated by electron microscopy and light scattering methods.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Masayori
Advisor Email
inouye@cabm.rutgers.edu
Inouye
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
675 Hoes Lane
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Arvind Konkimalla is a freshman at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and minoring in
Philosophy.
Email Address
arvikonk@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2014
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
David
J
Last Name
Kopylov
Abstract Title
Immunolocalization of Osteocalcin, Parvalbumin, and VR1 Receptor Proteins in Neural Tissue of Newborn Mice
Abstract
Osteocalcin (OC) is the most abundant noncollagenous protein in bone synthesized by osteoblasts. The majority of OC is deposited
among a matrix of collagen in bone. However, approximately 10% of newly synthesized OC is immediately released into circulation
(pOC). Although the functions of OC in bone and in circulation are not completely understood, its affinity for calcium ions implies a
significant role in bone formation. Recent evidence confirms the presence of OC in extraskeletal tissues of the body, specifically in dorsal
root ganglia (DRG) and trigeminal ganglia (TG). The mixture of primary sensory neurons found in these tissues begs the question – is
OC localized in specific sensory neurons of both ganglia? Previous studies performed by Ichikawa et al. (2002) classified primary
sensory neurons into subpopulations on the basis of their chemical markers. The capsaicin (vanilloid) receptor, VR1, is a cation channel,
nociceptive neuronal marker that can be activated by vanilloid compounds, protons and heat (> 43.8 °C). On the other hand,
parvalbumin, a member of calcium-binding protein family, is localized to proprioceptive neurons. In this study, we attempt to examine
the distribution of OC in DRG and TG to determine if nociceptive and/or proprioceptive neurons are more specifically involved in OC
synthesis within the central nervous system (CNS). To determine the localization of these proteins in DRG and TG, a simultaneous
visualization of OC with VR1 or parvalbumin was used using a double-immunofluorescent method. The results of this experiment can
further uncover the elusive function of OC in neural tissue.
Key Words Related to Project
osteocalcin, VR1, parvalbumin, dorsal root ganglia, trigeminal ganglia,
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Patricia
Advisor Email
buckendp@rci.rutgers.edu
Buckendahl
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
607 Allison Road
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
David Kopylov is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring in Nutrition.
Email Address
dkopylov@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Charles F
Last Name
Kreisel
Abstract Title
Visualizing Thrombin Inhibition
Abstract
Thrombin is serine protease (an enzyme that cleaves peptide bonds in proteins) that plays a key role in the process of blood coagulation.
It is composed of 2 protein chains. Many different chemicals can bind to thrombin to inhibit its functions as a coagulant. Several medical
conditions can occur as a result of under or over inhibition of thrombin including thrombocytopenia (thin blood), venous thrombosis (a
blood clot), and ischemia (a restriction in blood supply) such as in a heart attack. This research aims to study thrombin structures from
the Protein Data Bank and classify different types of thrombin inhibitors based on their molecular structures, binding sites, and biological
functions. A few selected structures will be used to create a short movie demonstrating the structural changes of thrombin in the presence
of these inhibitors. The results of this research will hopefully be used to further understand and communicate thrombin‘s function and its
interactions with thrombin inhibiting drugs in health and disease.
Key Words Related to Project
Thrombin Inhibition Protein Coagulation
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Shuchismita
Advisor Email
sdutta@rcsb.rutgers.edu>
Dutta
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
610 Taylor Road
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Charles Kreisel is a freshman at the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program who plans to major in Biochemistry and minor in
Chemistry.
Email Address
ckreisel@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
2014
Major
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Devinn R
Last Name
Lambert
Abstract Title
Characterization of pilQ Gene in Lysobacter enzymogenes
Abstract
While research has largely focused on the interactions between bacteria with higher eukaryotes, these systems remain difficult to
understand due to the complexity of higher eukaryotes. In this regard, the study of pathogenic interactions between bacteria and lower
eukaryotes such as fungi gains great merit. Their structural simplicity and small genomes provide an ideal platform to study the molecular
and genetic processes behind elementary pathogenesis (Kobayashi & Crouch, 2009).
Lysobacter enzymogenes is a parasite of
phytopathogenic fungi whose virulence consists of hydrolytic enzymes and intracellular infection. A structure responsible for many
functional and pathogenic activities in gram negative bacteria is the type IV pilus (TFP). Its function includes lytic enzyme secretion,
biofilm formation, and extracellular polysaccharide secretion (Nunn & Lory, 1992, O‘Toole & Kotler, 1998). It is also believed that the
TFP initiates polar attachment which is the first step of intracellular pathogenesis. One gene believed to be essential in TFP assembly
and function in Lysobacter enzymogenes is the pilQ gene. In homologous species, PilQ functions as a secretin that acts as a gateway for
pilin fibers to traverse to the exterior of the cell (Collins et al., 2004, Wolfgang et al., 2000). Through deletion mutagenesis by
homologous recombination pilQ was excised from the genome. All phenotypes associated with the T4P are absent or decreased in pilQmutants which supports its function as a necessary gene in T4P biogenesis. It is expected that pathogenic interaction of pilQ- with
DsRed gene fluorescence against fungi will yield similar results.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Donald
Advisor Email
kobayashi@aesop.rutgers.edu
Kobayashi
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Foran Hall 337, 45 Dudley Road, New Brunswick NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Devinn Lambert is a sophomore at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biotechnology and double minoring
in Biochemistry and Chemistry. For graduate school, she is planning to partake in a hybrid Masters of Science and Business degree
(MBS) and obtain her Ph.D. For a career she hopes to be a Research Director in a Biotechnology Company where she can conduct
research and represent the company‘s science in the business sector.
Email Address
devinnl@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2013
Major
Biotechnology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Kathryn B
Last Name
Landy
Abstract Title
A Connection Between Synapsis, Cohesion, and Recombination Promotes Proper Chromsome Segregation
Abstract
During meiotic prophase, homologous chromosomes are brought together in an elaborate pairing process, known as synapsis, in order to
facilitate correct chromosome segregation. Synapsis is stabilized by the synaptonemal complex (SC), a proteinaceous structure that runs
along the entire length of the chromosomes and tethers the homologs. The SC initiates at discrete sites early in prophase, and is fully
assembled by late prophase. Initiation of the SC is seen at the centromere as well as in patches on the euchromatin. The centromere is
thought to be a specialized site for SC initiation; however, the second population of sites remains undefined. In Drosophila melanogaster
the SC can be visualized by fluorescent microscopy, making investigation into both types of SC initiation sites possible. Determining
what the SC initiation sites depend on will help elucidate the mechanism of synapsis initiation. We have shown that synapsis at the
centromere is dependent on cohesion proteins, which tether sister chromatids, however it is unknown if this is the case for the
euchromatic sites. Another possibility is that the euchromatic sites may correspond to crossover sites, as suggested by an association
between double-strand breaks (DSBs) and euchromatic SC patches seen in the SC mutant c(2)M. Currently, I am mapping crossovers in
c(2)M mutants, which may lead to the location of the euchromatic SC sites, and working to determine the role cohesion plays in synapsis
initiation at both the centromere and along the euchromatin. This new information will contribute to our understanding of the synapsis
initiation mechanism.
Key Words Related to Project
Female meiosis in Drosophila melanogaster
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kim
Advisor Email
mckim@rci.rutgers.edu
McKim
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
190 Frelinghuysen Road, Rm206 Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kathryn Landy is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Genetics.
Email Address
School Name
KLANDY@EDEN.RUTGERS.ED
Poster 12-2pm
Class Year
2012
Major
Genetics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Melissa H
Last Name
Lash
Abstract Title
Amphiphilic Macromolecule-Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) Hydrogels for protein delivery
Abstract
Hydrogels produced through UV photo-crosslinking of a poly(vinylpyrrolidone)(PVP) solution have been studied as soft tissue wound
dressings. Their biocompatibility and action as a localized delivery system make them particularly useful for therapeutic applications. By
complexing amphiphilic macromolecules (AMs) with PVP hydrogels, the physical properties of these three-dimensional polymer
networks can be tailored for specific therapeutic applications such as localized protein carriers to soft tissue injury sites. The resulting
gels were characterized by their water absorptivity, porosity, gelation degree and rheology. It was found that addition of AMs to the PVPbased systems altered their swelling and mechanical compliances in a manner consistent with physical crosslinking. Additionally, the
loading and release profiles of a model protein, bovine serum albumin (BSA), were analyzed.
Key Words Related to Project
Amphiphilic macromolecules, poly(vinylpyrrolidone), Hydrogels, UV crosslinking
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kathryn
Advisor Email
keuhrich@rutgers.edu
Uhrigh
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
610 Taylor Rd
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Melissa Lash is a senior majoring in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Chemistry. In addition to undergraduate research, she is
active in the Rutgers student chapter of Engineers Without Borders, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, the International
Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering, the Ski Racing team and the RU STEPPED UP peer mentoring program.
Email Address
mlash@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2011
Major
Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Nina
Last Name
Latcheva
Abstract Title
Exploring the Learning and Memory Phenotypes of the Pigeon Gene on Alzheimer‘s Disease.
Abstract
Alzheimer‘s disease is the most prevalent form of senile dementia in humans, affecting over 30% of people age 85 and over. Previous
studies have determined the most likely cause of Alzheimer‘s to be overproduction and buildup of amyloid-beta peptides that are
produced by proteolytic cleavage of the trans-membrane receptor amyloid precursor protein at the beta and gamma sites. Recently it was
shown that cleavage at the gamma site is regulated by Gamma-Secretase Activating Protein (GSAP). The Drosophila pigeon gene is a
homologue of GSAP. Our lab uses Drosophila expressing amyloid-beta buildup as a model system to study Alzheimer‘s disease.
Amyloid-beta expressing flies display cognitive phenotypes characteristic of the human condition. In Drosophila, learning and memory
can be measured with an associative conditioning courtship assay. Courtship is a series of complex stereotypical behaviors carried out by
males responding to multimodal signals transduced by females. Here we will use this courtship assay to evaluate whether a variety of
pigeon mutations have a learning or memory phenotype. In addition, we will test whether these pigeon mutations affect the learning or
memory defects of amyloid-beta expressing Drosophila.
Key Words Related to Project
Genetics, Alzheimer's disease, pigeon gene
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mary
Advisor Email
konsolaki@biology.rutgers.edu
Konsolaki
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Nina Latcheva is a graduating senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Genetics and minoring in Psychology.
Email Address
latcheva@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Genetics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Agnieszka J
Last Name
Lawrenczyk
Abstract Title
Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha‘s Influence on Learning
Abstract
Neuroimmunology deals with explaining the relationship between the immune system and the nervous system. Many neurodegenerative
diseases have been proposed to be caused by an abnormality in the immune system, although precise pathways are still unknown.
Alzheimer‘s disease has been linked to elevated levels of Tumor Necrosis Factor- alpha. TNF-alpha is a gliotransmitter which modulates
synaptic transmission, and in turn memory . Our research was aimed to determine if TNF-alpha causes impaired learning and cognitive
function. This was tested by infusing the TNF-alpha directly into the brain, rather than having it cross the blood brain barrier from the
periphery. We hypothesized that the outcome of the experiment would suggest that TNF-alpha would impair the memory of the subjects.
In our experiment, 10 CD-1 mice had cannuli inserted surgically into the central ventricle. 3 days after the initial surgery 10 were infused
with either TNF-alpha or cerebrospinal fluid. They were then tested for 5 days in the Morris Water Maze. The maze serves to determine
the learning capacity of the mice. A normal mouse would learn where the target platform is by using cues around the room. The latency
to the target should decrease each day. After 10 days, a retest was conducted, by testing the mice in the Morris Water Maze once again.
Both tests were followed by a probe test, where the mice swam around the maze for one minute. Our results showed that after the retest,
the TNF-alpha infused mice did not learn as well as the control mice that were infused with cerebrospinal fluid. This was indicated by the
amount of distance the two groups traveled, and the time it took both groups to reach their target.
Key Words Related to Project
tnf-alpha, immunology, learning
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Alexander
Advisor Email
kusnecov@rci.rutgers.edu
Kusnecov
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 FRELINGHUYSEN ROAD, Piscataway, NJ, 08854-8020.
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Agnieszka Lawrenczyk is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell biology and Neuroscience and minoring in
Psychology. She is also interested in political science and writing. She would like to further my knowledge in graduate school n cell and
related sciences.
Email Address
alawrenc@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
school of arts and sciences 2011
Major
cell biology and neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Jaclyn
E
Last Name
Lazarus
Abstract Title
Computer Modeling of Colon Stem Cells and the Progression to Colon Cancer
Abstract
Colorectal cancer results from the abnormal proliferation and differentiation of cells within colon crypts that line the colon. However, the
exact cellular and molecular steps involved in the progression of normal crypts to crypt fission, to polyps, and to invasive cancer are not
completely understood. Objective: We intend to elucidate the cellular and molecular steps in colon cancer progression by developing a
computer model (virtual crypt) and use it to conduct in silico experiments. Methods: Quantitative image analysis of normal human biopsy
specimens was used to measure the numbers of each cell type in crypts. The NetLogo multi-agent programmable modeling application
was used to produce a computer model of a crypt. Results: Computer code was written that produces an image on a computer monitor
that resembles the architecture of a normal crypt. It contains stem cells, transient amplifying cells, and differentiated cells in the correct
numbers and correct positions. The code is being further developed to simulate the proliferation and differentiation of normal stem cells
into transient amplifying cells; and to simulate the proliferation and differentiation of mutant stem cells to result in crypt fission,
formation of polyps, and invasive colon cancer. Conclusion: Computer modeling of stem cell proliferation and differentiation in a colon
crypt is an informative procedure to elucidate the cellular and molecular steps in the progression of colon cancer.
Key Words Related to Project
Colon Cancer Polyp
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
axelrod@biology.rutgers.edu
Axelrod
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Nelson Biolabs Rm 341, 604 Allison Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Xing Shun Chin
Presenter Biography
Jaclyn Lazarus is a junior in the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering and minoring in Psychology. Xing Shun
Chin is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Biological Science and minoring in Computer Science.
Email Address
jlazarus@eden.rutgers.edu
Video Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Charles T
Last Name
Lee
Abstract Title
PEGylated Polymeric Drug Delivery System (PDDS) of Camptothecin for Lung Cancer Therapy
Abstract
Strategy for the preparation of PEGylated polymeric drug delivery system (PDDS) of camptothecin for lung cancer therapy Charles Lee,
Manjeet Deshmukh, Patrick J. Sinko*
This work aims to develop a novel polymeric drug delivery system for lung cancer targeting.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related death in men and women combined. Modern chemotherapies are problematic due to
the dose-limiting systemic toxicities of current utilized cancer fighting agents. Camptothecin (CPT), a highly potent anticancer drug will
be used in this study. These side effects are directly related to the exposure of unaffected tissues to these toxic drugs. The efficacy of CPTbased therapy would be greatly enhanced if its adverse effects could be overcome by delivering the drug specifically to cancer cells in the
lung. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to design a targeted polymeric drug delivery system (PDDS) that specifically localizes in
lung cancer tumors to yield improved drug efficacy and reduce unwanted systemic side effects. To accomplish this, CPT derivatives will
be conjugated to polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymer via norvaline (Nva) amino acid. A targeting moiety (TM, folic acid) will also be
linked to the PEG-CPT conjugates. In vitro A459 lung carcinoma cell lines will be treated with drug-loaded PEG polymer with and
without the folate. MTT [(3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] and apoptosis TUNEL-screening assays will be
conducted to evaluate efficacy of the PDDS with varying amounts of TM and CPT. The proposed optimal CPT-derived PDDS may be
useful for treating lung cancer.
Key Words Related to Project
lung, cancer, polymer, drug, delivery
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Patrick
Advisor Email
sinko@rci.rutgers.edu
Sinko
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Rm. 225C, William Levine Hall, 160 Frelinghuysen Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Charles Lee is a first professional year student at the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy. He is part of the School of Pharmacy's honors
program and is researching polymeric drug delivery systems for lung cancer under the guidance of doctors Patrick Sinko and Manjeet
Deshmukh.
Email Address
chalee@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
School of Pharmacy
Class Year
2014
Major
Pharmacy
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Alexander S
Last Name
Li
Abstract Title
The Effects of Salt Tolerance on Various Strains of Duckweed from all over the World
Abstract
Duckweed is the smallest flowering plant species that has a lot of varying qualities that make it of value, especially for its exceptional
growth, adaptability, and use as a potential for biofuel due to its high starch content. In this investigation, the duckweed‘s ability to
tolerate different environments will be tested using salt tolerance. The tolerance of duckweed is tested by placing various salt
concentrations (mM) in the growth media to stimulate a stress environment. Then by measuring the growth of duckweed weekly, a time
table is produced of how the duckweed responded to the stress. To test for the amount of starch content, the YSI2700 analyzer is used to
measure in dextrose percent per dry weight in grams. Although duckweed adapts to all places in the world, the higher the stress in the
environment, the less starch will be produced overall. By testing the ability of duckweed from a variety of strains in the world, in various
environments, it gives a better understanding of how stress can affect growth and starch content of duckweed for future applications.
Key Words Related to Project
Duckweed, Salt Tolerance, Growth Rate
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Eric
Advisor Email
ericl89@hotmail.com
Lam
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Foran Hall/ Cook Campus 59 Dudley Rd. New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alex Li is a sophomore at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biotechnology. Despite working in a lab at
Rutgers under the Aresty Program, Alex enjoys traveling and drawing as his favorite pastimes. In the future, he hopes to go to graduate
school and further his education development.
Email Address
alexli@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Rutgers University
Class Year
2013
Major
Biotechnology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Sean
B
Last Name
Lo
Abstract Title
Effects of BDNF on Dendrite Branching and Cypin Expression in Primary Neurons Cultures
Abstract
Extracellular and intrinsic factors often uphold proper communication between neurons making daily actions possible. Through
regulation of dendrite number and branching, these factors are able to keep neurons receiving and processing the millions of signals that
flow through our brains every day. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is one of the most studied extrinsic factors and has been
known to be very important for dendritic outgrowth. Preliminary data has shown global treatment with BDNF is able to increase
transcription of mRNA encoding cypin, a protein that is also known to affect dendritic arbor. The goal of this study is to see different
effects of global exposure of BDNF on dendrite number and branching and characterize which signaling pathway BDNF uses to regulate
the dendrite characteristics.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Bonnie
Advisor Email
firestein@biology.rutgers.edu
Firestein
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
604 Allison Road Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sean Lo is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience.
Email Address
seanlo@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Art and Sciences 2011
Major
Cell Biology & Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Edward B
Last Name
Lochocki
Abstract Title
PFM Contrast Mechanism at Domain Boundaries in Side-view HoMnO3
Abstract
Piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) is a variant of contact-mode atomic force microscopy (AFM) in which an oscillating voltage
applied to the probe tip allows for the imaging of ferroelectric domains. We apply PFM to a sample of hexagonal holmium manganese
oxide (HoMnO3) in which the c-axis lies in the surface plane. The PFM contrast between domains of opposite polarization is found to
depend on the angle between the cantilever and the c-axis, but we also find that there is angle-independent contrast at the domain
boundaries. An independent measurement confirms this result, and we present a theory to explain our observations
Key Words Related to Project
Hexagonal RMnO3, PFM, Lateral PFM
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Weida
Advisor Email
wdwu@physics.rutgers.edu
Wu
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
136 Frelinghuysen Road
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ed Lochocki is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program double-majoring in Physics and Mathematics.
Email Address
eloch@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS Honors
Class Year
2011
Major
Physics & Mathematics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Kevin
Last Name
Lu
Abstract Title
Elucidating the Binding Site of ppGpp on E. coli RNA Polymerase
Abstract
Guanosine 3‘,5‘-bispyrophosphate and guanosine 3‘-diphosphate-5‘-triphosphate (together ppGpp) are the primary effectors of the
bacterial stringent response, which is critical for survival during starvation and other stressful conditions that may occur during induction
of bacterial virulence. Therefore, a complete understanding of the mechanism of ppGpp action is of great interest. Current research
indicates that ppGpp binds either to the β or β’ subunit of RNA polymerase (rpoB and rpoC respectively) or both. However, the specific
binding site of (p)ppGpp has yet to be found. Using various plasmids that place a ppGpp synthetase under the transcriptional control of a
lac-inducible promoter, we screened for ppGpp-resistant mutants of VH271 E. coli. Increased levels of ppGpp severely slows bacterial
growth, and the VH271 strain has β-galactosidase under the control of an rrnB P1 promoter which is inhibited by ppGpp. Thus, mutants
were easily identifiable as faster growing, darker blue colonies. We subsequently sequenced their rpoB and rpoC genes. Thus far, no
mutations have been found.
Key Words Related to Project
ppGpp RNA polymerase stringent response
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Richard
Advisor Email
ebright@waksman.rutgers.edu
Ebright
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Waksman Institute
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kevin Lu is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and Mathematics and
minoring in Chemistry and Physics.
Email Address
kevlu@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
2013
Major
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Mofei
M
Last Name
Lu
Abstract Title
MicroCT Analysis of Femurs from Spinal Cord Injured and Sham Operated Mice
Abstract
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) has devastating immediate effects, but its long term effects also prevent effective recovery as well. Paraplegic
SCI patients often experience severely decreased bone formation and increased bone degradation, making movement recovery much more
difficult, as well as severe pain and an increased fracture rate. Osteocalcin (OC), the most abundant non-collagenous protein found in the
bone, has been implicated in bone mineralization. The objective of this research is to test the hypothesis that OC is involved in bone
integrity following SCI and to show its potential role in the functional recovery from SCI. A total of 30 OC knockout and 30 Wild-Type
mice were killed either 0 days or 30 days following subjection to a SCI or sham surgery (for a total of three groups of comparison:
genotype, treatment and time. The left femora of these mice were harvested and scanned using a Skyscan 1172 MicroCT. Images were
reconstructed into 3D models for analysis of cortical and trabecular bone morphology. Trabecular parameters include total tissue volume,
bone volume, percent bone volume, bone surface to volume ratio, surface density, trabecular thickness, separation, number and
connectivity. Cortical bone parameters include cortical thickness, periosteal and endosteal perimeter, cross-sectional area and cortical
porosity. Comparison of functional recovery and bone morphology will teach us more about the role of osteocalcin in bone development
after a spinal cord injury, hopefully leading to a subsequent study to test the effects of OC supplementation on bone development in SCI
mice.
Key Words Related to Project
osteocalcin; spinal cord injury; bone
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Patricia
Advisor Email
buckendp@rci.rutgers.edu
Buckendahl
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
607 Allison Road
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Mofei (Murphy) Lu is a Senior in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program majoring in Cell Biology & Neuroscience and
Physics, and minoring in Music and Psychology. He is interested in biomedical research and hopes to pursue an M.D./Ph.D. after
graduating from Rutgers University to continue his research experiences.
Email Address
murphylu@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SASHP
Class Year
2011
Major
Cell Biology & Neuroscience; Physics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Vincent
Last Name
Luo
Abstract Title
Microelectrode Arrays as an In Vitro Model to Study Traumatic Brain Injury
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI), the result of an external force producing brain tissue deformation, affects over 2 million individuals within
the United States each year. Glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter, has been shown to contribute to TBI with increased
concentrations causing neuronal injury and death. This project focuses on investigating the effects of glutamate-mediated neurotoxicity as
a model of TBI. Cultures of rat cortical cells were grown on microelectrode arrays (MEAs) and treated with two different concentrations
of glutamate, 175µM and 250µM, in order to investigate the effects of both lethal and sublethal glutamate concentrations as models of
severe and mild TBI. Historically, it has been believed that mild TBI does not result in any permanent pathological damage. Results show
significant loss in the overall electrical activity of neurons with treatments of 250µM glutamate but no change in the overall activity with
treatments of 175µM glutamate. Analysis of changes in the synchronization of action potential firing between electrodes on the MEAs,
however, showed results that were not seen when looking at overall activity. Treatment with both concentrations of glutamate resulted in
a decrease in the synchronization of action potential firing within the neuronal network. Thus, our more in-depth analysis of the neuronal
network suggests that mild TBI may, in fact, have some lasting effects. By utilizing MEAs and studying the role of different glutamate
concentrations as a model of TBI, breakthroughs can be made to help identify pharmaceutical drugs to combat the effects of glutamate
surges after injury.
Key Words Related to Project
microelectrode arrays, traumatic brain injury
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Bonnie
Advisor Email
firestein@biology.rutgers.edu
Firestein
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Nelson Biology Lab, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Vincent Luo is a junior in the School of Engineering Honors Program majoring in Biomedical Engineering with a Tissue Engineering
Concentration.
Email Address
vinluo@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Gabriela M
Last Name
Magdaleno
Abstract Title
Evaluation of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Viability in a Novel, Photocrosslinkable Collagen Biomaterial
Abstract
Our lab has developed a type 1 collagen-based, photocrosslinkable hydrogel for use as an injectable cellularized scaffold. This material
can be mechanically tuned via the application of light, which we aim to use to control differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells
(hMSC) towards a neural lineage for therapies following spinal cord injury. Type-I collagen self assembles at physiological pH and
temperature allowing for cells such as hMSCs to be encapsulated within the fibrillar gel. Application of long-wave UV light to a
photoinitiator included in the gel generates free radicals, which crosslinks the gel and increases its stiffness. However, a consequence of
the free radicals can also damage resident cells. The MTS assay, a mitochondrial functionality assay, provided a quantitative assessment
of the effects of varying photoinitiator concentrations on cell viability. Once the optimum photoinitiator concentration was determined to
be 0.025%, UV exposure time was varied to optimize crosslinking and minimize cytotoxicity. These experiments helped determine an
optimum photoinitiator concentration and UV exposure time to allow mechanical modulation of the material while maintaining cellular
viability. These findings could provide the basis for a minimally invasive procedure where the hydrogel is injected into the injury site and
photocrosslinked in situ, providing an optimum environment for neuronal differentiation and axon regeneration.
Key Words Related to Project
Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Photocrosslinkable Collagen
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
shreiber@rci.rutgers.edu
Shreiber
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Gabriela Magdaleno is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Biology and minoring in Criminology.
Email Address
gabmagda@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Biology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Albin
A
Last Name
Mammen
Abstract Title
Developing Hemicarcerands for Use in Drug Delivery
Abstract
Hemicarcerands are molecular-container compounds, compounds that have an ability to bind to ―guest‖ molecule to form a complex that
is stable at moderate pH and temperature. This stability has lead research in the direction of applying hemicarcerands in medicine (for
example, as vehicles for drug delivery or gene therapy). Recently, application of hemicarcerands that bind to short, interfering RNA
(siRNA) has been investigated. Hemicarcerands can be modified to bind to the negatively-charged siRNA by adding positively charged
functional groups to the molecule. The hemicarcerand that binds most efficiently can be determined by creating a dynamic library of
hemicarcerands. Addition of siRNA into this library will lead to amplification of the hemicarcerand that binds the strongest to the siRNA
molecule.
Key Words Related to Project
hemicarcerands, host/guest, siRNA
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Ralf
Advisor Email
warmuth@rutgers.edu
Warmuth
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Wright Reiman 380
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Albin Mammen is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Psychology.
Email Address
amammen@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Chemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Joseph
J
Last Name
Mason
Abstract Title
Impact of Self-Selected Audiovisual Attentional Dissociation on Affective Responses to Exercise
Abstract
Research has examined the relationship among various types of exercise, the resulting affect, and exercise adherence, however the area of
self-selected audiovisual (SSAV) attentional dissociation and the way in which people respond to varying intensities under such
conditions has yet to be fully examined. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between SSAV attentional dissociation
and post-exercise affect for both moderate and intense levels of exercise. Twenty-five college-aged students completed four cycle
ergometer VO2 max tests: one introductory metabolic testing session followed by three counterbalanced experimental sessions. Each
session consisted of either attentional dissociation (video clip), attentional association (biofeedback), or a stimulus neutral condition
(control). During each experimental trial, participants rated their felt arousal (FAS; Svebak & Murgatroyd, 1985), affect (FS; Hardy &
Rejeski, 1989), mood (PANAS; Watson, Clark & Tellegen), and perceived exertion (RPE; Borg, 1985) prior to, during, and after
exercise. Current research shows that the way a person feels and responds to exercise is a strong predictor of future involvement in
similar exercise. A relationship between SSAV attentional dissociation and improved mood states holds great potential for new and
innovative methods for increasing exercise adherence among the general population.
Key Words Related to Project
Affect, Attentional Dissociation, Cycling, Exercise
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
202A
Advisor
Brandon
Advisor Email
alderman@rutgers.edu
Alderman
Time
2- 3 p.m.
Panel Name
Awareness and Intuition
Advisor Address
70 Lipman Dr., New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8525
Other Students Involved
Michele M. Gomez
Presenter Biography
Joseph Mason is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences (2011) majoring in Exercise Science and Sport Studies. As a part of his
major‘s departmental honors program, he has been conducting research since the spring of 2010. Joseph plans to continue his research in
the Masters of Business and Science program at Rutgers University with a focus on kinesiology and applied physiology. Michele Gomez
is a senior at Rutgers (SEBS 2011) with a major in Exercise Science and Sport Studies. She will be attending graduate school at UMDNJ
starting this summer for Physical Therapy, where she hopes to continue examining the relationship between affective responses and
exercise and looking at the different ways interactive video games can be incorporated into a therapeutic setting.
Email Address
jmason44@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Exercise Science and Sport Studies
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Diana
M
Last Name
Mattina
Abstract Title
The Effects of Low Intensity Treadmill Walking on Attention and Concentration
Abstract
Currently approximately two-thirds of the U.S. population is either overweight or obese. One approach to address this obesity epidemic
has been to promote activity and decrease time in sedentary pursuits. To address today‘s sedentary lifestyle, Levine and colleagues (2007)
reintroduced the concept of an active workstation consisting of a treadmill and an adjustable sit-to-stand desk. Although such a
workstation provides a means to increase energy expenditure, concerns have been raised about the potential negative effects on job
performance. Moreover, although exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function, scant research has examined the effects of lowintensity walking on cognition during the activity. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of self-selected walking on
attention and cognitive function. Forty-six students (n=14 males, 32 females; Mage=21.3 + 1.4) were randomly assigned to a lowintensity walking condition and a seated control condition, separated by 48 hours. During each condition, participants completed a
computerized version of three standardized cognitive tests in counterbalanced order: the Stroop color word conflict test, a modified
Eriksen Flanker task, and a test of reading comprehension. No significant differences were found for any of the cognitive tests between
conditions, p > .05. These findings reveal that attention and performance on cognitive tasks, including executive control processes, are
not impaired by low-intensity walking on a treadmill. Thus, the implementation of a treadmill workstation into offices or classrooms may
help to decrease sedentariness while maintaining similar levels of performance.
Key Words Related to Project
treadmill workstation, executive function
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Brandon
Advisor Email
alderman@rutgers.edu
Alderman
Time
Panel Name
Exercise: Impacts and Effects
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Diana Mattina is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Exercise Science and Sport Studies and minoring in
Psychology. She will be attending Physical Therapy school at UMDNJ in the fall.
Email Address
dmattina@eden.rutgers.edu
Video Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Exercise Science and Sport Studies
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Matthew L
Last Name
Mauro
Abstract Title
Critical Heat Flux Maximization via Pressure and Concentration of Nanofluid-Enhanced Water Spray Cooling
Abstract
Water-impingement spraying is growing in importance as a method for cooling in high heat flux situations as well as flame suppression
in extreme environments. This method has direct applications ranging from cooling for space-based electronics, dermal laser surgery,
and ordnance storage compartments to flame suppression and control on commercial aircraft. Spray cooling from atomizing nozzles is a
method of direct contact cooling that utilizes the pool boiling regime to remove high heat fluxes with the benefit of a smaller liquid
reservoir than a traditional suppression deluge system. Critical Heat Flux (CHF) represents the upper limit of potential cooling, which
occurs just prior to the formation of a vapor layer on the substrate that reduced liquid contact with the heated surface. Using a
thermocouple array in a heated copper block to measure the temperature gradient, this research studies the effects of spray pressure and
nanofluid concentration and vapor in an attempt to determine ideal operating conditions to maximize CHF for the aforementioned
applications.
Key Words Related to Project
Spray Cooling, Aerospace, Safety, Flame Suppression
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Javier
Advisor Email
diez@jove.rutgers.edu
Diez
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Engineering Building, B-236
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Matthew L. Mauro is a senior in the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering at the School of Engineering and a James J.
Slade Scholar. His research interests lie in thermal sciences, reliability and process safety.
Email Address
mlmauro@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2011
Major
Mechanical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Ilija
Last Name
Melentijevic
Abstract Title
Analysis of Novel Neuronal Aging Phenotypes in C. elegans and the Role of Insulin in Their Progression
Abstract
The nervous system is remarkably preserved in aging C. elegans. Gradual, progressive deterioration occurs in muscle, but there is almost
no loss of neurons even in advanced old age. However we have found that some aging neurons in C. elegans exhibit dramatic
morphological changes that include novel branching from the axon and new outgrowth from the soma. This project analyzes the effects
of aging on the level of individual neurons, something that has not been extensively studied. My focus is on the effects of insulin and the
insulin signaling pathway on aging neurons. Reduced insulin signaling in daf-2 mutants has a well established link to increased lifespan.
Inactivation of the DAF-16 transcription factor, by genetic manipulation results in decreased lifespan. Using high magnification
fluorescent microscopy, I have performed longitudinal experiments and recorded a decreased number of neuronal ageing phenotypes in
daf-2(e1370) animals, but detected no increased number of neuronal ageing phenotypes in daf-16(mgDf50) mutants. The methods
developed in this project can be used for a large number of mutants to analyze their effects on neuronal aging. These experiments could
lead to a better understanding of loss of brain function in the aging human brain.
Key Words Related to Project
Aging, Neurons, C. elegans, insulin
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Monica
Advisor Email
Driscoll@biology.rutgers.edu
Driscoll
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Nelson Biological Labs. Room A232
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ilija Melentijevic is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and minoring in
Economics. He works in the research lab of Dr. Monica Driscoll under the supervision of Postdoctoral Fellow Dr. Marton Toth. He
works with Leena Shah, Postdoctoral Fellow Dr. Elena Vayndorf, and Amol Gandhi.
Email Address
ilija@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Aidan
P
Last Name
Milner
Abstract Title
Gene Mapping in the TGF-β Signaling Pathway
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway regulates various cellular functions including cell growth, cell
differentiation, and apoptosis. The pathway is conserved in many organisms, including humans. Mutations in the signaling components
of the pathway can lead to cancers and certain diseases. Caenorhabditis elegans provides a good model system due to its ease of
maintenance, and the wealth of scientific information available on the animal. Certain component deficiencies in the TGFβ pathway lead
to mutants with small body size, including the mutant sma-12, which I am studying. SNP mapping is being used to narrow the location of
the gene, which has mapped to chromosome V: +1.43. Currently, recombinants are being isolated for SNP mapping with the double
mutant sma-12 unc-76. Additionally, double mutant sma-12 unc-68 is being isolated to continue SNP mapping. Through
complementation tests, the mutation is confirmed to complement crm-1, showing it encodes a different gene. After mapping the gene,
cosmid, fosmid, or YAC cultures are prepared and the DNA is injected into the worms in an attempt to rescue the mutant and confirm its
location. From this it is possible to clone the mutant gene, determine what role it plays in TGFb signal transduction.
Key Words Related to Project
Gene Mapping, TGF-β, C. elegans
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Richard
Advisor Email
padgett@waksman.rutgers.edu
Padgett
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Waksman Institute, Room 133
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Aidan Milner is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program majoring in Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, and
minoring in economics. He has been involved in research with Dr. Padgett since the summer of 2010.
Email Address
amilner@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS Honors
Class Year
2013
Major
Molecular Biology & Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Alexandra J
Last Name
Murr
Abstract Title
Analyzing RME-8 and Clathrin Dynamics in the Retrograde Pathway
Abstract
Endocytosis is the process by which the plasma membrane of cells takes in molecules from the outside environment. After endocytosis,
most cargo enters early endosomes, membrane-bound compartments in which sorting occurs. From there, cargo can take three routes: (A)
it can be recycled back to the plasma membrane, (B) it can recycled to the Golgi complex, called "retrograde transport," or (C) it can be
delivered to cellular digestive compartments, lysosomes, for degradation.
The retromer protein complex is a key regulator of the
recycling retrograde transport. Retromer complex's SNX-1 and RME-8 protein promote the retrograde pathway and recycling of cargo
from the endosome to the Golgi. These endosomes also contain the "opposing" clathrin/HGRS/ESCRT protein complex, which are key in
binding cargo that is to be degraded in the lysosome. Analysis in mammalian cells revealed that these two subdomain binding sites are
adjacent to each other on the endosomes. Lysosome pathway mutants can mis-sort cargo to the retrograde pathway, and likewise,
retromer mutants can mis-sort cargo to the lysosomes. This preliminary genetic data suggests that these two subdomains may compete
with each other. Using time-lapse microscopy of GFP/RFP-labeled proteins that label the large endosomes of the worm coelomocyte, we
are trying to discern the dynamics of these subdomains.
Key Words Related to Project
endocytosis, C. elegans, RME-8, clathrin, retrograde pathway
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Barth
Advisor Email
Grant@Biology.Rutgers.Edu
Grant
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Nelson Biological Laboratories A307 604 Allison Road Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alexandra ―Sasha‖ Murr is a sophomore majoring in Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and minoring in Chinese. She enjoys running
and training for 5ks.
Email Address
amurr@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS Honors
Class Year
2013
Major
Molecular Biology & Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Sameera
Last Name
Namazi
Abstract Title
Ductal Carcinoma in Situ: Improving Precision and Recall for an Auto-Segmentation Approach
Abstract
Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) is a noninvasive proliferation of cells within a breast duct which can be prevented from developing into
a more metastatic site upon early detection. In order to determine the stage of DCIS progression, an analysis must be done on the ducts
within the breast tissue to properly classify them. An image analysis algorithm was developed in the hopes of automatically segmenting
both ducts and cribra on the images taken from slides of a patient‘s breast tissue as a first step in classification. These segmentations are
used to form a three-dimensional reconstruction to better examine the morphology of the disease. We worked to improve the performance
of the segmentation algorithm using average precision and recall values as a measure of the accuracy. In order to judge the accuracy of
our methods, we manually segmented out both the cribra and the ducts for 115 images and passed them through the algorithm. We found
the average precision and recall for the dataset to be 80.0% and 92.0% , respectively, for the duct segmentation. After modifying the
morphology operations in our algorithm we obtained an average precision and recall value of 87.4% and 87.9%, respectively. This
suggests the algorithm can be used to classify DCIS progression. Now that we have properly segmented the ducts, we hope to validate
our cribra segmentation algorithm as well, to verify its ability to segment out the cribra.
Key Words Related to Project
breast, cancer, segmentation
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Time
Advisor
& Kerri-Ann N Troy Shinbrot
Advisor Email
kerrin@eden.rutgers.edu
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sameera Namazi is a junior at the School of Engineering, majoring in Chemical Engineering. She hopes to go on to pursue a Masters in
Pharmaceutical Engineering.
Email Address
namazi@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Chemical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Camtu
T
Last Name
Nguyen
Abstract Title
Toxin-Antitoxin Systems and Tuberculosis Latency
Abstract
Overall, one-third of the world's population is currently infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the bacterium that causes
tuberculosis. Mtb has the unique ability to survive in the host for long periods of time as a latent infection. While it is not clear what
molecular switches trigger latency in this bacterium, increasing evidence suggests that bacterial toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems may play a
crucial role in establishing tuberculosis latency. While the majority of the Mtb TA modules are VapBC (virulence associated protein)
family members, with 23 paralogs identified through sequence similarities, their mechanism of action is poorly understood. Unlike many
other TA toxins that block translation by cleaving mRNA, preliminary work suggests that the primary mode of action of the VapC toxins
is to block protein synthesis through stable RNA binding. The goal of my studies is to determine if overexpression of several putative
Mtb target RNAs can reverse the growth arrest caused by VapC expression. To do this, I am using the polymerase chain reaction to create
these specialized expression vectors; these will then be transformed into Escherichia coli cells to enable coexpression with VapC.
Growth will then be monitored to determine if there is an effect on VapC toxicity.
Key Words Related to Project
tuberculosis, translation, RNA, toxin, antitoxin
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Nancy
Advisor Email
nancy.woychik@umdnj.edu
Woychik
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
683 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Camtu Nguyen is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry.
Email Address
camtutn@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Michael P
Last Name
Olson
Abstract Title
Effects of Substituents on Selectivity of Group 5 Metal Catalyzed Hydroaminoalkylation
Abstract
Effects of substituents on selectivity of group 5 metal catalyzed hydroaminoalkylation Michael Olson, Kai C.
Hultzsch
Hydroaminoalkylation is an atom-economical intermolecular reaction in which a dialkylamine adds to an alkene.High yields
have been shown only in the presence of a group V metal catalyst with N-methyl aniline substrates and generally at a temperature of at
least 90°C. This could have significance in the synthesis of specific chiral compounds if selectivity towards a particular product is shown,
since different isomers of one product can be formed. We propose that a chiral complex, when used with a dialkylamine substrate where
one of the groups is an aryl substituent and the other is methyl, can lead to a major product whose selectivity and rate of formation are
determined by electronic effects resulting from the substituent on the benzene ring.
1.Herzon, S.B.; Hartwig, J.F. J. Am. Chem.
Soc. 2008, 130, 14940-14941. 2.Reznichenko, A.L.; Emge, T.J.; Audorsch, S.; Klauber, E.G.; Hultzsch, K.C.; Schmidt, B.
Organometallics, 2011, ASAP, DOI:10.1201/om1011006. 3.Roesky, P.W.; Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2009, 48, 4892-4894.
Key Words Related to Project
Hydroaminoalkylation, hydroamination, dialkylamine, catalyst
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kai
Advisor Email
hultzsch@rci.rutgers.edu
Hultzsch
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Busch
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Michael Olson, is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Mathematics.
He began research as an undergraduate during the summer of 2010 through the Aresty Summer Research Program. He is working under
Kai Hultzsch in the field of organometallic chemistry and plans on going to a graduate school for Chemistry and finding a career in
research.
Email Address
mpolson@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Chemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Kimberly M
Last Name
Palatini
Abstract Title
Screening of Natural Products Against Metabolic Disorders
Abstract
Millions of people rely on botanicals and other natural products to as an alternative method to prevent disease, maintain wellness, or treat
illness or pain. This is particularly true for chronic diseases such as metabolic syndrome, which can be defined by obesity, insulin
resistance, and inflammation, and together with cancer are responsible for two thirds of all deaths in the US. Therefore, the main goal of
the project is the discovery of novel drugs of botanical or microbial origin that decrease insulin resistance and suppress inflammation, as
observed in live cell assays. We initiated a series of in-vitro studies of natural compounds and extracts using four cell lines: C6 glial cells,
H4IIE liver cells, 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes and RB macrophages. The positive hits are being further evaluated by PCR and additional
assays to establish activity, dose-response, and to isolate chemical compounds responsible for observed pharmacological effects. We are
also undertaking the composition of a literature review on the effect of protease inhibitors on energy balance.
Key Words Related to Project
Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome, Botanicals
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Slavko
Advisor Email
komar@aesop.rutgers.edu
Komarnytsky
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Foran Hall, 59 Dudley Road New Brunswick NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kim Palatini is a School of Arts and Sciences Honors student currently pursuing a major in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry through
the School of Arts and Sciences, as well as a minor in Nutritional Sciences through the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences.
After completing her Bachelors Degree, she plans on attending graduate school in a field similar to Biochemistry; possibly to further
study the effects of diet on the course of chronic diseases.
Email Address
kimpal@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2012
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Pancrazio
Last Name
Papapietro
Abstract Title
In Vivo Evaluation of a Biodegradable Polymeric Nerve Guidance Conduit for the Treatment of Peripheral Nerve Injury
Abstract
A severe peripheral nerve injury (PNI) requires surgical intervention in order to regain function and nerve continuity. Engineered nerve
guidance conduits (NGCs) offer advantages over the limitations of autografts, the current clinically preferred method. This study focuses
on a novel biodegradable polyAspirin tube synthesized from salicylic acid and its potential in mitigating the local inflammation that
results from the PNIs. The need for secondary surgery is eliminated due to the NGCs ability to hydrolyse within the body. The
polyAspirin NGCs are filled with a peptide functionalized type-I collagen hydrogel, shown to encourage axonal regeneration following
PNIs. The scaffold-filled NGCs were implanted into mice subjected to a femoral nerve transection with an imposed 5mm gap. Given that
such an injury would result in an impaired knee extension, the extent of functional recovery was determined based on two functional
tests: beam-walk and pencil grip. The extent of nerve regeneration and axonal targeting was quantified by retrograde labeling. The results
gathered from this study will help to determine whether biodegradable NGCs filled with a collagen matrix can serve as a superior course
of treatment of such PNIs.
Key Words Related to Project
polyAspirin, nerve regeneration
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kathryn
Advisor Email
keuhrich@rutgers.edu, dishreiber@yahoo.com
Uhrich
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Pancrazio "Ben" Papapietro is a senior at the School of Arts and Science majoring in Chemistry and Cell Biology and Neuroscience
(CBN).
Email Address
panpap@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Science 2011
Major
Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Aimee
C
Last Name
Parian
Abstract Title
Chemotherapy of Leishmaniasis
Abstract
Leishmania parasites cause a variety of diseases in humans in tropical and subtropical regions, which include cutaneous, mucocutaneous,
and visceral Leishmaniasis. Drugs still remain the most important tool for the treatment and control of Leishmaniasis. The drugs currently
being used for its treatment, however, demonstrate variable efficacy, require long-term administration, display poor activity in
immunosuppressed patients, expensive, and toxic, inducing a variety of side effects. In addition, resistance to current drugs is increasing
due to long-term use. For these reasons, the treatment of Leishmaniasis necessitates the development of new effective anti-Leishmanial
agents. The compound triclosan [5-chloro-2-(2.4dichlorophenoxy)-phenol] is a good candidate as it exhibits a growth-inhibitory effect on
a protozoan under the same order Trypanosomatida, Trypanosoma brucei. In addition, the said compound inhibits growth of Plasmodium
falciparum, Toxoplasma gondii in vitro, and rodent P. berghei in vivo. Triclosan is an attractive compound to test because it is an
ingredient used in a variety of commercial products; thus, its physical and chemical properties, toxicity values, and effects are already
known. In this investigation, growth-inhibition assay of two Leishmania species was performed in 12-well plates in triclosan
concentrations of 5μM, 7.5μM, 10μM, 20μM, 30μM, 40μM, 80μM and controls. In vitro growth of L. mexicana Josefa and L. donovani
1s was reduced by three- to five-fold at 5μM concentration and completely inhibited at 7.5 μM concentration. Dimethyl sulfoxide
(DMSO) alone at the highest concentration (control) did not affect the growth of the parasites; thus, the inhibition observed was due only
to drug effects.
Key Words Related to Project
Leishmaniasis, triclosan, neglected tropical disease(s), chemotherapy, drug testing
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Dunne
Advisor Email
fong@biology.rutgers.edu
Fong
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
B424 Nelson Biological Laboratories, 604 Allison Road, Busch Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Aimee Parian is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience, with a minor in Public Health.
Email Address
acparian@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Trishala
Last Name
Parthasarathi
Abstract Title
Firing Patterns in the Nucleus Accumbens During Various Reward Presentation
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens is a part of the mesolimbic dopamine pathway. Dopamine neurons in this pathway are known to exhibit firing
rate changes when subjects are presented with rewarding liquid stimuli (Fioriollo et al, 2003). These changes in firing patterns of
dopaminergic neurons depend upon the predictability of reward delivery from learned cues (Fioriollo et al, 2003). Dopaminergic
projections comprise just one of several inputs to the accumbens, and thus it is uncertain whether any reward-related firing of accumbens
neurons may passively reflect dopaminergic input, or additionally reflect activity of other accumbens afferents in the cortical loop, such
as the Amygdala, prefrontal cortex, or the hippocampus (Kelley & Berridge 2002). In this study, we are seeking to understand whether
(and if so, how) accumbens neurons develop reward prediction signals and changes in firing patterns in response to cues by means of
awake behavioral electrophysiological recordings. Accumbens shell and core neurons will be recorded during a reward-related, pavlovian
task in which cue presentations will signal delivery of reward (20% sucrose solution). Probability of reward will be modulated (100%,
50% or 25%). Preliminary results indicate specific neurons exhibited an increase in firing selective to behavioral events (cued/uncued
approach, consumption, and cued/uncued retreat) in both shell and core subregions. Results of this study will allow further insight to the
encoding of reward-related signals within the accumbens. This may lead to a better understanding of human behaviors in relation to real
world cues.
Key Words Related to Project
dopamine, nucleus accumbens, reward acquisition, electrophysiology
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mark
Advisor Email
markwest@rutgers.edu
West
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Shaili Jha
Presenter Biography
Trishala Parthasarathi is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and Psychology. Shaili
Jha is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and Psychology.
Email Address
trishala@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience and Psychology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Dhara
Last Name
Patel
Abstract Title
Analysis of TRPV1 in Mouse Trigeminal Ganglia
Abstract
Recent studies identified the presence of osteocalcin in the central nervous system of rats (Ichikawa et al.: Buckendahl et al.), specifically
in the sensory neurons of dorsal root and trigeminal ganglion. We believe the presence of osteocalcin in the trigeminal ganglion results in
various stress responses induced by sensory stimuli. We are using Capzasin, a commercial topical ointment, as a stressor to observe the
behavioral and osteocalcin level differences between our wildtype and knockout mice. Capzasin was spread on their right cheeks and
behavior was observed for two minutes while they were placed in a Plexiglass box. Some mice had nothing on their cheeks and were
used as the control. Others were spread neutral face crème on their cheeks instead of the capzasin, as a placebo control. After this
experiment, we extracted both the right and left trigeminal ganglia of each mouse to compare and test for TRPV1 gene expression. We
expect capzasin to have an effect comparable to the mice touching something very hot. TRPV1 is a capzasin receptor protein that is
expected to correlate with the amount of osteocalcin present. Because osteocalcin is present in the wild type trigeminals, we expect there
to be a slight difference in reactions between the wildtype and knockout mice. We have already run this experiment once, but will repeat
it to have a greater pool of subjects. A difference in TRPV1 between the knockout and wildtype would also show how the presence of
osteocalcin affects stress responses.
Key Words Related to Project
Osteocalcin in mouse trigeminal ganglia
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Patricia
Advisor Email
buckendp@rci.rutgers.edu
Buckendahl
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Smithers Hall, 607 Allision Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Dhara Patel is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences. She is majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and has been working
in Dr. Buckendahl's lab since June 2010. She enjoys dancing, sailing, and working with children.
Email Address
dhara67@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Scieces 2013
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Dhruv
Last Name
Patel
Abstract Title
Developing a Method for Measuring Absolute Amounts of Lysosomal Proteins in Human Cells
Abstract
Lysosomes are cellular organelles which contain proteins (enzymes) responsible for the degradation and recycling of other proteins,
nucleic acids, lipids and sugars. Defects in the lysosomal proteins result in Lysosomal Storage Diseases (LSDs) such as Tay-Sachs and
Gaucher disease which are typically neurodegenerative and fatal. Knowledge of the absolute amount of lysosomal proteins in patients can
be crucial for the diagnosis of LSDs. In this study, we have developed a technique to measure the absolute amount of known lysosomal
proteins using internal peptide standards labeled with carbon-13 that can be added in known amounts to protein samples. This mixture
can be analyzed with a mass spectrometer, an instrument frequently used for identification and determination of the relative abundance of
proteins, and then by comparing to the labeled peptide level, concentration of protein in the patient sample can be calculated. Using this
technique, we have successfully measured protein amounts of various lysosomal proteins from human fibroblast cell extracts, and we
plan to quantify lysosomal proteins from other tissues. Such knowledge of lysosomal protein levels will help to gain insight into
mechanisms of action of various lysosomal proteins as well as to investigate the molecular basis of various LSDs.
Key Words Related to Project
Lysosomal Proteins, Mass spectrometry, Absolute Quantitation
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
201A
Advisor
Peter
Advisor Email
lobel@cabm.rutgers.edu
Lobel
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
The Future of Pharmacy
Advisor Address
679 Hoes Lane, Rm 204, Piscataway NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Dhruv Patel is a senior at School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and Physics. He started
working in the lab of Dr. Lobel at CABM, UMDNJ in summer 2008. Dhruv has been working on this project since spring 2009. He is a
proud member of Phi Beta Kappa, NSCS, Alpha Epsilon Delta as well as Delta Epsilon Iota. After graduation, Dhruv will pursue an MD
degree.
Email Address
dhruv963@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, Physics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Kiran
B
Last Name
Patel
Abstract Title
Examining the Effect of Dietary Fat on Calcium Absorption and Bone in Estrogen Deficient Mice
Abstract
Bone undergoes a normal remodeling process which is controlled by the coupled actions of osteoblasts (bone formation cells) and
osteoclasts (bone resorption cell). Dietary intake of specific nutrients may contribute or interrupt the coordination of these cells and have
a marked impact on bone metabolism and bone mineral density (BMD). In this study, we aim to better understand the effects of a high
fat diet (HFD) on bone metabolism and calcium absorption as none of the previous studies showed conclusive evidence. Previous studies
suggest that a HFD is detrimental to calcium absorption, but none have controlled for the influence of excess adiposity caused by a HFD.
In this study, we will pair-feed HFD mice to the low fat diet group (isocaloric) during an 8 week intervention. Also, because estradiol can
influence calcium absorption, we will examine mice without estrogen (ovariectomized) compared to estrogen-sufficient mice (sham
operated). To study the effects of a HFD on calcium absorption, we will examine true fractional absorption using 45Ca, and examine Ca
transport proteins in the intestines. The expression of these transport proteins can give us more information on which proteins are in
important in the process of calcium absorption. Understanding such basic concepts behind bone turnover relative to estrogen and dietary
fat intake should ultimately lead to the prevention of bone diseases, such as osteoporosis.
Key Words Related to Project
Calcium Absorption, estrogen, bone turnover, Ca transport protein
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Sue
Advisor Email
shapses@aesop.rutgers.edu
Shapses
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Thompson Hall 96 Lipman Drive New Brunswick, N. J. 08901-0231
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kiran Patel is a senior at School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology & Biochemistry. He started working in the lab of
Dr. Sue Shapses in summer 2010. He plans to attend Medical school after graduation and continue to do research.
Email Address
kiranp88@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Kirankumar K
Last Name
Patel
Abstract Title
Contribution of Transglutaminase 2 to Alpha-synucleinopathies in Primary Neuronal Culture
Abstract
Accumulation and deposition of α-synuclein (α-syn) aggregates is a common feature of α- synucleinopathies including dementia with
Lewy bodies, multiple system atrophy and Parkinson‘s disease. Current research suggests that transglutaminase 2 (TG2), a family
member of calcium-dependent enzymes, leads to crosslinking and aggregation of α-syn both in vitro and in cellular models. In addition, it
has been shown that the TG2 inhibitor reduces protein aggregates and prolongs survival in transgenic mouse model of Huntington‘s
disease. In this project, we genetically manipulate TG2 and α-syn expression to study the contribution of TG2 to α-synucleinopathies in
primary neuronal cultures. By evaluating cell survival and α-syn aggregation in this model, the functional interaction between TG2 and αsyn can be studied.
Key Words Related to Project
Parkinson's disease, Neurodegeneration, alpha-synuclein
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Maral
Advisor Email
mouradmm@umdnj.edu
Mouradian
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
683 Hoes Lane Room 180 Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kiran Patel is a senior at School of Arts and Science majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience. His future goal is to study medicine
and establish NPO to provide necessary medical care in third world countries.
Email Address
kipatel@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Parth
J
Last Name
Patel
Abstract Title
Correlating Short-Term Nuclear Features to Long-Term Stem Cell Differentiation in Bioengineered Substrates
Abstract
A major issue in using stem cells for regenerative medicine is the control of stem cell differentiation. Stem cells react to a number of
different mechanical and chemical cues to induce differentiation, and the exact conditions that induce differentiation into specific
lineages is still poorly understood. To gain a better understanding of the properties of biomaterials that induce differentiation, we have
developed an imaging-based approach that can quantitatively analyze the organization of nuclear proteins in the cell in the hopes of being
able to use this data to predict long-term stem cell behavior, more specifically differentiation. By using this method, we acquired nuclear
―descriptors‖ of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC‘s) that were seeded on poly(DTE carbonate) electrospun fibermats. Nuclear
descriptors are categorized as either intensity, textural, or shape features. These nuclear descriptors are analyzed using multidimensionality reduction and principle component analysis, and the most influential descriptors were determined using decision tree
analysis. We are currently examining hMSC‘s exposed to chemical cues that induce differentiation into adipocytes and osteoblasts, and
preliminary results show that nuclear protein organization changes based on lineage commitment. This profiling platform can eventually
be extended to study other stem cell lines as well as other engineered substrates. By analyzing these nuclear descriptors, we hope to
utilize this methodology in high-throughput screening of engineered biomaterials and profile them based on how they influence stem cell
behavior.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Prabhas
Advisor Email
moghe@rci.rutgers.edu
Moghe
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
BME 315 599 Taylor Road Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Parth J Patel is a junior at the School fo Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering with a concentration in Tissue Engineering. He
works under graduate student Sebastian Vega in the laboratory of Dr. Prabhas Moghe. He plans on attending medical after graduation.
Email Address
parthjp@scarletmail.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Anshu
A
Last Name
Paul
Abstract Title
Role of mcm5 in Meiotic Recombination
Abstract
The gene mcm5 has previously been found to have a role in DNA replication, transcription activation, chromosome condensation, and
cohesion. We have been working to specify its function in meiotic recombination in Drosophila females. The Pch2 checkpoint delays the
progression of meiotic prophase when there are defects in the generation of meiotic crossovers. This delay allows additional time for the
defect to be corrected and crossovers to be generated. Considering that mcm5 has sequence similarity to mei-218, a pre-condition mutant
that functions in the activation of the Pch2 checkpoint, mcm5 could be involved in the Pch2 checkpoint. To test this hypothesis, I made
double mutants of mcm5 with hdm and mei-9, which are exchange genes required for crossover formation and in which a mutation would
induce the activation of the Pch2 checkpoint. My results suggest that mcm5 does indeed play a role in activating the Pch2 checkpoint
because the double mutants did not have a meiotic prophase delay. Future research will involve finding other functions of a similar precondition mutant, rec, which is hypothesized to play a role in the double-strand break repair checkpoint, which functions parallel to the
Pch2 checkpoint to delay meiotic prophase when DNA damage is not repaired.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kim
Advisor Email
mckim@rci.rutgers.edu
McKim
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
99 Frelinghuysen Rd, Piscataway
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Anshu Paul is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Genetics and minoring in Mathematics.
Email Address
anpaul@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Genetics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Isaac
J
Last Name
Perron
Abstract Title
In Vitro Characterization of Peptide Glycomimetics Immobilized on Collagen Scaffolds for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Abstract
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) has difficulty fully recovering after a major injury because of limited nerve regeneration and
reduced preferential motor reinnervation. Polysialic Acid (PSA) and Human Natural Killer cell (HNK-1) epitope, both naturally
occurring carbohydrates, are crucial during PNS development and are upregulated following injury. Our lab has immobilized peptide
glycomimics of PSA and HNK-1, which retain functionality while enhancing stability, onto type I collagen, thus preventing their
diffusion away from the injury site. In a previous study, when used as a filler material for a nerve entubulation graft, functionalized
collagen induced greater motor and morphological recovery than untreated collagen or saline following femoral nerve injury in mice. The
peptide mimics can act on regenerating axons and/or Schwann cells. To evaluate these cellular entities, experiments were performed in
vitro with immortalized motor neurons (NSC-34) and Schwann cells (RSC-96). NSC-34 were pre-differentiated for five days then plated
onto the collagen scaffolds and allowed to grow for one week. The cells were immunostained with anti-neurofilament and neurite
outgrowth was measured. PSA and HNK-1 conditions showed significantly longer axonal growth over controls (p < 0.001). RSC-96
were serum starved for two days to synchronize cell cycles then plated on our scaffolds for 24 hours. Results showed increased cell
counts and proliferation with PSA, but not HNK-1, conditions (p < 0.05). Ongoing studies include quantifying differences in RSC-96
morphology, as well as confirming our results with primary cells.
Key Words Related to Project
biomaterial, peripheral nerve regeneration
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
shreiber@rci.rutgers.edu
Shreiber
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
599 Taylor Rd, Piscataway, NJ, 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Isaac Perron is a senior majoring in Biomedical Engineering. He will attend graduate school at UPenn next fall to study neuroscience.
Email Address
ijperron@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2011
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Alessandro
Last Name
Pizzo
Abstract Title
Protein Targets of the Genetic Determinants of General Intelligence
Abstract
The general intelligence factor (g factor) has proven to be a strong indication for an individual‘s aggregate performance over a variety of
cognitive tests. Although the g factor‘s presence is undeniable, and Charles Spearman formulated it as long ago as in the year 1904, there
is little that is known about its exact underlying biological mechanisms. In pursuit of uncovering the molecular regulation of the g factor,
we have developed a learning battery of various tasks that assess the general learning abilities (GLA) of mice. In the past we have found
that working memory capacity was predictive of (and possibly a causal determinant of) the GLA of genetically heterogeneous mice.
Because it is believed that working memory is highly dependent on dopaminergic signaling in the pre-frontal cortex (PFC), we are further
exploring the role of dopamine signaling in the PFC in the regulation of general cognitive abilities. In light of recent work, we know that
dopamine-related genes are over-expressed in animals with good, relative to poor, general cognitive abilities. The question then becomes,
what are the protein targets of those dopamine-related genes? To investigate this, we will determine the GLA of mice using our
established batteries of cognitive tests, and compare GLA to a qualitative measure of the dopamine (D1) receptors in the PFC via a
Western Blot analysis. It is our prediction that D1 receptor proteins will show the same correlation as dopamine-related genes did in
previous studies, thereby confirming its role in instantiating general intelligence in the brain.
Key Words Related to Project
General Intelligence, Working Memory, Prefrontal Cortex, Dopamine
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Louis
Advisor Email
matzel@rci.rutgers.edu
Matzel
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alessandro Pizzo is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program working towards a major in Psychology and a
Individualized Major in Cognitive Science, with a minor in Biological Sciences. He is currently working in the laboratory of Dr. Louis
Matzel in the Psychology Department and has been since Fall 2010.
Email Address
apizzo91@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Psychology, Individualized Major Cognitive Scie
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Devin
E
Last Name
Plote
Abstract Title
Regulation of Phosphatidate Phosphatase by Growth Phase
Abstract
The yeast enzyme phosphatidate (PA) phosphatase (PAP) is involved in phospholipid synthesis, specifically in the formation of
diacylglycerol (DAG) and triacylglycerol (TAG), by catalyzing the dephosphorylation of PA. A mutation in the gene which encodes the
PAP enzyme results in higher levels of PA and increased activity of the enzyme. However, PAP protein (Pah1p) levels decrease as the
growth cycle proceeds in the pah1Δ due to ubiquitination and proteolysis from lack of enzyme phosphorylation. The Nem1p-Spo7p
complex is found at the ER membrane and contributes to PAP function by dephosphorylating the enzyme to induce activity and generate
more DAG. The objective of this research was to determine the relationship between Nem1p and Pah1p, and whether a mutation in one
or both of the enzymes encoding these proteins would affect PAP stability over yeast‘s growth phases. Cultures of wild type [PAH1] cells
and [PAH1-7A] cells with both pah1Δ single and nem1Δ pah1Δ double mutations were grown over a 20 hour time frame. Cells were
harvested every hour starting at 12 hours when ODs prove cells are in exponential phase. Pah1p protein levels were then analyzed with
western blotting. Immunobloting revealed for both the wild type and 7A mutant, the double mutant (nem1Δ pah1Δ) had more visible
bands than the single mutant in the later hours of cell growth. In general, levels of PAP (Pah1p) decline after 14 hours of growth where
ODs indicate that the cells have entered stationary phase and the double mutant seems to stabilize the PAP enzyme more.
Key Words Related to Project
Enzyme, Metabolism, Ubiquination
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
George
Advisor Email
carman@aesop.rutgers.edu
Carman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
65 Dudley Rd.
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Devin Plote is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biotechnology and minoring in Biochemistry.
Email Address
deplote@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Eric
B
Last Name
Pludwinski
Abstract Title
Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in a 3-Dimensional Alginate Culture System
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is an acute or chronic inflammation of a bone joint that results in pain and injury. This cartilage damaging disability affects
nearly 19 million adults in the United States. Since cartilage regenerates at such an extremely slow rate, self reparation is typically not
reliable. One effective treatment involves the implantation of new cartilage scaffolds at the site of injury, which will contain and
reinforce the older cartilage. A key element to this treatment is cartilage cells (chondrocytes). Although chondrocytes only represent 5%
to 10% of the entire cartilage volume, they are crucial to the cartilage in its entirety, as they are responsible for the synthesis and turnover
of the cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM). The issue lies in obtaining the chondrocytes necessary for creating this new cartilage
scaffold. A possible solution is the differentiation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) into chondrocytes. Current protocols for MSC
differentiation include monolayer (2D) culture, 3-dimensional culture systems, and high-density micro-mass cultures, and all of which are
supplemented with transforming growth factors-β (TGF-β). These protocols are not effective since they are difficult to scale up and
require TGF-β supplementation which is expensive. Recent findings in our laboratory indicate that under certain conditions TGF-β is not
required as an additional supplement for chondrogenesis. When MSCs are encapsulated in a 3-dimensional 1.7% alginate culture system,
chondrogenesis occurs without additional growth factor supplementation. The goal of the current studies is to explore further
chondrogenesis optimization approaches, including variations in initial cell seeding density.
Key Words Related to Project
Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Chondrogenesis Alginate
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Rene
Advisor Email
schloss@sol.rutgers.edu
Schloss
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
599 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Eric Pludwinski is a sophomore at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering. Having a passion for biomedical
engineering since high school, he started shadowing graduate researchers in the summer of his junior year of high school at the Rutgers
BME laboratory and began individual undergraduate research once he started attending Rutgers University.
Email Address
ericplud@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Hamidah
Last Name
Raduwan
Abstract Title
Role of RAD6 and BRE1 in the Neurospora Light Response
Abstract
The ability to regulate transcription in response to an environmental stimulus is critical to the fitness of all organisms. Light is a
predominant environmental stimulus that is sensed by a multitude of organisms. Neurospora crassa is an excellent model organism to
understand the molecular mechanism of light-regulated gene expression. In Neurospora, the transcription factors White Collar-1 (WC-1)
and White Collar-2 (WC-2) are responsible for all light-mediated responses and serve as the positive elements in the circadian negative
feedback loop. In this role, they drive expression of the central clock gene frequency (FRQ). FRQ expression is regulated via negative
feedback loop to control circadian-regulated oscillations. In order to understand the role of chromatin remodeling in light-mediated
responses, we screened strains deleted for annotated chromatin-remodeling enzymes for defects in light-dependent carotenogenesis. Two
genes, bre1 and rad6, which are involved in monoubiquitination of H2B at Lysine 119 (K119), appear to be required for a normal light
response. Real-time PCR data and western blot analysis on both Δrad6 and Δbre1 show a defect in expression of WC-1-dependent
transcripts, including frq, wc-1, and vvd, suggesting that these enzymes are necessary for light-mediated responses. Further experiments
are underway to determine how BRE1 and RAD6 function in light mediated gene expression.
Key Words Related to Project
chromatin remodeling, histone cross-talk
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
William
Advisor Email
belden@aesop.rutgers.edu
Belden
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
76 Lipman Drive
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Allison Isola is a lab technician who is working in the lab since September 2011. She graduated from Rutgers University in 2011 with a
Microbiology degree.
Email Address
hamidahr@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Kristen M
Last Name
Reale
Abstract Title
Synthesis and Study of Polyethylene Glycol-Modified Beta-Fibril Forming Peptides
Abstract
Beta fibril aggregates are formed by the misfolding of proteins, and they are involved in over twenty disease states, such as Alzheimer‘s
disease and Parkinson‘s disease. The detailed molecular structure of these fibrils is currently unknown because these aggregates are
insoluble and amorphous. Therefore, use of conventional methods such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance or X-ray Crystallography has not
been possible. The focus of this study is to create low molecular weight peptides that aggregate to form soluble beta fibrils that can be
studied through conventional spectroscopy, and for solubilizing preformed insoluble fibril aggregates. The approach to achieving soluble
aggregates is to covalently link polyethylene glycol (PEG) oligomers to fibril forming peptides and observe their aggregation patterns.
We hypothesize that newly designed peptide fibrils will be soluble in aqueous solution. To identity soluble aggregates, Circular
Dichroism spectropolarimetry is used to analyze aggregation properties by comparison to the characteristic beta-sheet conformation.
Progress in the synthesis and analysis of these peptide structures will be reported. By understanding the molecular structure of amyloidlike beta fibrils, current and future studies can begin to understand the behavior of these fibrils at the molecular level. Moreover, the
design of therapeutic drugs can be directed and enhanced with the detailed structural conformation knowledge that might be obtained
from these studies.
Key Words Related to Project
Beta-Fibrils, Polyethylene Glycol Oligomers, Aggregation
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
John
Advisor Email
jwtaylor@rci.rutgers.edu
Taylor
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Wright Rieman Labs 278/292,Chemistry & Chemical Biology, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kristen Reale is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Mathematics.
Email Address
kreale@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Chemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Patrick J
Last Name
Rogler
Abstract Title
Tin and Lead Materials with Fluorinated Selenolate Ligands
Abstract
Main-Group semiconductor thin films and nano-crystals have generated a considerable amount of interest in industry due to their utility
in optoelectronic devices, their applicability as biological imaging agents, and their practicality as tunable quantum confined materials for
use in modern electronic devices and fluorescent labels. The potential utility of these materials has lead to a vast amount of research into
the properties of a diverse array of main group semiconducting materials as well as new, more efficient means of producing them. One of
the more reliable methodologies for the deposition of a thin, and uniform semiconductor film is Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). As
such, a great deal of work has been devoted to the synthesis of low-temperature organometallic precursors for semiconductor films. With
these interests in mind, and for the purpose of providing insight into the structural properties of Tin and Lead selenide nano-crystals, our
objective was to synthesize novel Tin and Lead complexes with fluorinated selenolate ligands. These complexes were thermally
decomposed to evaluate their utility as CVD precursors for Tin and Lead selenide materials. The complexes were also combined with
elemental selenium in solution to explore their potential to act as Tin and Lead selenide nano-crystal (quantum dot) precursors.
Key Words Related to Project
semiconductors, organometallic complexes, metal chalcogenolates, quantum dots
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
John
Advisor Email
bren@rci.rutgers.edu
Brennan
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Chemistry & Chemical Biology, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Patrick Rogler is a junior enrolled in the School of Arts and Sciences with a major in Chemistry and a minor in Physics.
Email Address
progler@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Chemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
James
G
Last Name
Ruggero
Abstract Title
Mapping and Characterization of the 2212 Chromosome Segregation Mutant
Abstract
Meiosis is the process by which a diploid organism creates haploid gametes. During sexual reproduction, creating haploid gametes is
necessary to ensure that progeny receive a single homolog from each parent. When the mechanisms of meiosis are disturbed,
chromosomes can fail to segregate (known as nondisjunction), resulting in aneuploid gametes. Examples of diseases associated with
aneuploid karyotypes in humans are Down, Turner and Klinefelter‘s syndromes. In an effort to find a new class of nondisjunction
mutations that are homozygous sterile or lethal, we designed a mutagenisis screen that produced nondisjunction through nonallelic
noncomplementation with heterozygous subito4034. Through recombinant and deficiency mapping, we have mapped one of the
mutations, 2212, to a region that contains two genes. Sequence data has shown a mutation in one of the genes, maternal expression at
31B (me31B). The other gene, chico, has yet to be fully sequenced and analyzed. Preliminary evidence suggests the mutation is involved
in microtubule spindle organization. 2212 is classified as a homozygous female sterile mutation, with some homozygous lethality. From
our initial results with 2212, we have shown that we can identify a sterile mutation through a synthetic interaction. We expect this new
approach to nondisjunction mutagenisis screens will be useful for identifying new genes associated with the mechanism of proper meiotic
chromosome segregation.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kim
Advisor Email
mckim@rci.rutgers.edu
McKim
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Room 206 Waksman, 190 Frelinghuysen Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
James Ruggero is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Genetics and Physics.
Email Address
jruggero@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Genetics, Physics: General Option
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Maia
R
Last Name
Saito
Abstract Title
V-VII Hybrid Semiconductors for Photovoltaic Applications
Abstract
Decreasing dependence on non-renewable sources of energy is one of the principal research targets to be addressed in the coming
decades. A widely acceptable way to do so is by harnessing energy from sunlight through photovoltaic technology. To this end, this
research project focuses on the development and characterization of new hybrid semiconductors possessing interesting properties, which
make them good for use either directly or as precursors for photovoltaic devices. The materials we are interested in are nanostructured
inorganic-organic hybrid semiconductors based on V-VII binaries (e.g. BiI3 and BiBr3). These materials are synthesized through the
solvothermal method. By tuning the experimental conditions, we can optimize the reactions to yield pure products, which can then be
fabricated into nanoparticles through the ultrasonication process. Using the dip coating or spin coating method, the soluble/suspendable
hybrid nanoparticles are deposited into thin-film absorbers, which will have great potential to be used as low-cost and high-efficiency
devices for the photovoltaic industry.
Key Words Related to Project
semiconductors, photovoltaics, thin films, solvothermal synthesis
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jing
Advisor Email
jingli@rutgers.edu
Li
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Chemistry & Chemical Biology, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Maia Rei Saito is a fourth-year student in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Japanese. She
participated in the National Science Foundation Summer Research Program in Solid State Chemistry in the summer of 2010, and has
been doing research with Dr. Jing Li's group since September 2010.
Email Address
maiarei@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Chemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Bennet A
Last Name
Samani
Abstract Title
Design and Construction of A Flapping Flight model Using Housefly Flight Analysis
Abstract
A housefly flies using an extremely efficient flapping mechanism, flapping its wings 200-300 times a second and with an average speed
of 4.5 miles per hour. By observing various housefly thorax models displaying the 'click' mechanism, it was noticed that a Flapping Flight
Model could be designed by adopting the 'click' mechanism with a few modifications that ensure light weight, efficiency and miniature
size (10 cm). Designing the model is difficult considering the integration of a motor and power source into the 'click' mechanism. To
assist in the methods for building such a flyer, insect samples were collected and captured using high speed videography in an attempt to
effectively analyze the wing motion of the insects. Currently, a suitable digital model is under construction to improve efficiency and
reduce unnecessary use of resources. Until this endeavor is completed, we are forced to rely on computations derived from visual
observations to build this flying machine.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mitsunori
Advisor Email
denda@rutgers.edu
Denda
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
98 Brett Rd., Piscataway, NJ 08854-8058, U.S.A.
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Email Address
bennets@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School Of Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Vishvesh V
Last Name
Sathe
Abstract Title
Cerium-Doped Lutetium Oxyorthosilicate Prepared by Flame Spray Pyrolysis
Abstract
Cerium-Doped Lutetium Oxyorthosilicate (LU2SiO5: Ce) has applications in the fields of high energy physics, medical imaging and
geology due to its high density, fast decay and high emission density. One of the best ways to obtain this product is via the Flame Spray
Pyrolysis method as it eliminates the previous problems of non - accurate homogeneity and size. This technique has simple one step
continuous process that works better for the creation of core-shell structures and nanorods. Moreover, it has high future potential in
production and commercialization. The process for this technique includes an ultrasonic vibrator, a precursor, a honeycomb structure to
control the jet mist and gases such as methane, air and nitrogen, which would be controlled by mass flow controllers. Currently the
experiment is generating high soot with methanol, so the future experiment runs would include low soot chemicals. The final product
would be tested with cutting edge equipments such as Field Emission Scanning Electronic Microscopy (FESEM), Transmission
Electronic Microscopy (TEM), BET and XRD. Previous results from other sources, performed with this technique, have suggested
positive results with narrow size distribution and high purity for the nanoparticles.
Key Words Related to Project
Flame Spray Pyrolysis
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Stephen
Advisor Email
sdytse@rci.rutgers.edu
Tse
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
B232A Engineering Bldg 98 Brett Road Rutgers University Piscataway, NJ 08854-8058
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Vishvesh Sathe is a Junior majoring in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and minoring in Economics.
Email Address
vsathe@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Lisa
C
Last Name
Servilio
Abstract Title
How do Different Fixed Blood Cocaine Levels Influence Rat Ultrasonic Vocalizations?
Abstract
Previous research studying rat ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) during cocaine self-administration has suggested that affective states
related to cocaine-seeking behavior in rats may be dose-dependent, as rats emitted more 22-kHz (negative-affective) USVs at a low dose
and 50-kHz (positive-affective) USVs at a high dose of cocaine (Barker et al., 2010). However, dose could not be isolated as the sole
driving influence behind the observed differences in USVs because drug levels fluctuated transiently as a function of the reinforcement
schedule. To directly examine the role of cocaine dose on affect, the present study recorded rat USVs while drug level was fixed at either
a high or low blood concentration (i.e. high or low relative to each subject‘s ―preferred‖ drug level). The experiment involved a two-week
training period during which rats freely self-administered cocaine, followed by two drug clamp sessions. During the drug clamps, levers
were removed following 1.5 hours of normal self-administration, and blood-concentrations of cocaine were transitioned to .1 mg/kg
above each animal‘s peak blood concentration from the previous week (high clamp) or 50% of this value (low clamp) where they
remained for the duration of the session (4 hours). USVs recorded during these sessions will be analyzed by frequency, duration, and call
type in order to specifically examine the role that dose plays in affective processing during cocaine self-administration.
Key Words Related to Project
cocaine, rat, ultrasonic vocalizations, dose
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mark
Advisor Email
markwest@rutgers.edu
West
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Room 225 Psychology Building -152 FRELINGHUYSEN ROAD Piscataway, NJ, 08854-8020
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Lisa Servilio is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience.
Email Address
lisaserv@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Leena
Y
Last Name
Shah
Abstract Title
The Effect of Mechanical Stress and Food Availability on Neuronal Aging in C. elegans
Abstract
Aging is the stochastic accumulation of irreversible biological changes in an organism over time. This continuous process results in
individual aging patterns for each organism. Over fifty lifespan-altering mutations have been identified using the nematode
Caenorhabditis elegans, which makes it an exceptional model for studying gerontogenes. Aging studies have shown muscle deterioration
with age, but few have extensively studied the preservation or deterioration of neurons in the nervous system during aging. My current
project focuses on the structural effects that environmental factors, such as mechanical stress and food availability, have on the neurons. I
have conducted initial longitudinal studies and have recorded phenotypes showing age related structural changes of mechanosensory
neurons in C. elegans when exposed to elevated glucose levels. More studies on dietary restriction and on unc genes, and their
subsequent effects on the impairment of neurons, are to follow. Preliminary research on different unc strains that have visible phenotypes
but do not affect neuronal function, development, and pharyngeal pumping have shown that work with the unc-45 and unc-54 strains may
potentially help us make inferences on mechanical stress and its effect on neuronal structure. By analyzing the structural effect that these
environmental factors have on neuronal aging, I hope to learn more about how longevity pathways within the body influence aging.
Learning the focus of these longevity pathways within the body can help us target specific pathways in animals, with deterioration in
certain tissues, so that we can lengthen their lifespan and increase their health span.
Key Words Related to Project
aging, neurons, C. elegans, glucose, mechanical stress
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Monica
Advisor Email
Driscoll@biology.rutgers.edu
Driscoll
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
604 Allison Road Nelson Labs A219 Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Leena Shah is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and minoring in
Psychology. She is an undergraduate researcher in Monica Driscoll's lab working under Post Doctoral Fellow Dr. Marton Toth and
closely with Ilija Melentijevic, Amol Gandhi, Aatish Bhatia, and Elena Vayndorf.
Email Address
shahL@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Neel
J
Last Name
Shah
Abstract Title
Cultivation Chamber In Time-Lapse Microscopy Of Live Cells
Abstract
The ability to continually observe live cellular activity in an environment ideal to cellular proliferation exists as an aspect of scientific
research with endless possibilities of experimental applications. Specifically, research including cellular activity often requires explicit
analysis of examining live cellular processes under a microscope in a time lapse fashion in correlation with certain environmental growth
factors such as ideal cell growth temperature, media flow, and CO2 level. The utilization of different instruments in maintaining the
specific cellular environmental led to successful trials over a period of 12 hours. Initial analysis of the time lapse images of live cells
suggests viable cellular activity at the 12th hour similar to the 0th hour. The viable activity specifically pertains to reoccurring accounts
of cellular mitosis, which qualitatively draws a conclusion of a healthy cell culture. However, a quantitative analysis of cell viability
assays also demonstrates a similar conclusion. The ability to induce certain biological mechanism such as apoptosis by exposing the cells
to a flavoprotein while each step by step process is being imaged will give scientists a new understanding of the exact nuisances of
biological mechanisms and organelles. Other biological applications of live cell time lapse imaging entail cell migration, drug delivery,
and even basic cell proliferation experiments.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Nada
Advisor Email
nboustan@rci.rutgers.edu
Boustany
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
599 Taylor Road
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Neel J. Shah is a senior at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering. Neel is actively involved in the world of
research at Rutgers, where he works in a bio-optics and drug delivery lab in the biomedical engineering department. He aspires to take
the skills learned in his undergraduate research and translate them into the industry of pharmaceutical research and development.
Email Address
n2s89@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2011
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Noor
G
Last Name
Shah
Abstract Title
Clofibrate Inhibits the T1R3 Chemosensory Receptor
Abstract
Sweet taste perception begins with the binding of sweeteners to the hetero-dimer complex made of the T1R2 and T1R3 receptor
subunits. This study examines the perceptual effects and apparent mechanism of two sweet taste inhibitors and four common sweeteners
known to act on the T1R2-T1R3 heteromer. The purpose of this study is to show that clofibric acid inhibits sweet taste in humans and
ultimately to confirm that T1R2-T1R3 is the principal receptor for carbohydrate perception in humans. Solutions of increasing molarity
of sucrose, cyclamate, sucralose and acesulfame K were prepared in neat solutions and with a fixed amount of each inhibitor. The sweet
taste inhibitors were clofibrate and lactisole. Both lactisole and chlofibrate inhibited the sweetness elicited from all four sweeteners. The
inhibitors produced similar results in acesulfame K and cyclamate. With sucrose and sucralose, clofibrate suppressed sweetness to a
greater degree than did lactisole. However, at 1.64M sucrose and 0.0795M sucralose, the intensity of the neat solutions and solutions
prepared with lactisole were similar, yet the intensity of the clofibrate solutions remained suppressed compared to that of the neat
solutions. This suggests that lactisole is a competitive inhibitor of sucrose and sucralose interactions with the sweet taste receptor, and
that clofibrate may be a noncompetitive inhibitor. These results show that clofibrate inhibits sweet taste perception. They also suggest
that clofibrate behaves differently from lactisole.
Key Words Related to Project
Taste Perception, Sweet Taste Inhibition
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Paul
Advisor Email
breslin@aesop.rutgers.edu
Breslin
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
134 Thompson Hall
Other Students Involved
Mehreen Mian
Presenter Biography
Noor Shah is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in the Biological Sciences and English Literature.
Mehreen Mian is a sophomore in School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Nutrition.
Email Address
noorshah@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Biological Sciences and English Literature
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Steven
Last Name
Shikhel
Abstract Title
New Drugs for Cystinuria
Abstract
The study of certain inherited urolithiasis diseases can provide insight into the pathogenesis of stone diseases. In particular, the study of
Cystinuria can aid in advancing our knowledge of stone diseases and be used to evaluate new treatments. Cystinuria is a rare autosomal
recessive defect, where patients develop urolithiasis. Cystinuria is characterized by a dysfunctional amino acid transporter (proteins rBAT
and b0,+AT, coded by genes; SLC3A1 or SLC7A9, respectively) leading to excess excretion of dibasic amino acids in the urine and
leads to the formation of cystine stones in the kidney and bladder. Drs. Sahota and Tischfield have created SLC3A1 knockout mice to
understand better the pathogenesis of the Cystinria. Stones cause increased bladder weight and size, decreased volume capacity, increased
leakage at lower pressure, decreased compliance, decreased contractile response to stimuli and are associated with numerous pathological
changes, including changes in the apical membrane and the cytoskeleton in urothelial cells lining the bladder wall. Preventative measures
are aimed to reduce the amount of cystine/urine below their saturation point. Complying with these measures was shown to be difficult.
Current treatments include the implementation of thiol drugs and removal of stones via surgical procedures. Drugs appear to be extremely
toxic and multiple surgical interventions lead to infection and renal insufficiency. A new paradigm shift in treatment of Cystinuria
includes the use of structural analogs of cystine to inhibit stone formation through tailored inhibition of crystallization. We have started
testing these analogs on the SLC3A1 knockout mice to test their efficacy.
Key Words Related to Project
Cystinuria Genetics Histology MouseModel Drugs
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Amrik
Advisor Email
Sahota@biology.rutgers.edu
Sahota
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
145 Bevier Road Piscataway, NJ, 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Steven Shikhel is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program, majoring in Exercise Science and Sports Studies
(Exercise Physiology Option) and minoring in Nutrition and Biological Sciences. He has been working with Dr. Sahota since the summer
of 2010 where he was accepted into the Aresty Summer Science Program. His main job with Dr. Sahota is to conduct
Immunohistochemistry techniques on bladder slides to evaluate histological changes in the urothelial walls.
Email Address
shikhel@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
Exercise Science and Sports Studies
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Shahar
Last Name
Shmuel
Abstract Title
Mitochondrial Dynamics in Response to Conditions of Increased Neural Activity and Stress
Abstract
While known for their role in energy production, mitochondria also contribute to cellular damage in response to stress, releasing reactive
oxygen species (ROS) and calcium into the cytosol. A key regulator of mitochondrial calcium and ROS homeostasis is the mitochondrial
permeability transition pore (mPTP), a non-specific channel bridging the inner mitochondrial membrane. Cyclophilin D (CyPD), a
mitochondrial peptide-prolyl cis/trans isomerase (PPIase) in mammalian genetic systems, is a likely mPTP activator. Therefore, CyPD
may be used to identify mPTP components; these components would make potential drug targets for minimizing cellular damage were
their identities known. Recently, CYN-1 was identified as the only likely mitochondrial cyclophilin in C. elegans, and therefore a likely
ortholog of CyPD. We generated a collection of transgenic animals that express mitochondrial proteins labeled with fluorescent reporters
in order to observe mitochondrial dynamics, and to test the impact of increased neural activity on aging under standard lab conditions,
and on survival rates under hypoxic/ischemic conditions. We are also using RNAi to investigate whether other cyclophilin homologs act
redundantly with CYN-1. Preliminary results indicate that loss of CYN-1 does not impact aging, resistance to necrosis, resistance to
hypoxia and anoxia, and neuronal mitochondrial shape and size. However, overexpression of CYN-1 does alter neuronal mitochondrial
shape and size. If CYN-1 is an ortholog to CyPD, it can be used to study CyPD‘s role in stress resistance, aging, and mitochondrial
biology, and perhaps identify mPTP components, using the rapid forward and reverse genetic techniques afforded by the C. elegans
genetic system.
Key Words Related to Project
CyPD, mPTP regulation, mitochondrial dynamics, necrosis
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Christopher
Advisor Email
rongo@waksman.rutgers.edu
Rongo
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Waksman Institute, Room 33, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Shahar Shmuel is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program majoring in Biological Sciences and minoring in English.
Email Address
shashm@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS Honors
Class Year
2011
Major
Biological Sciences
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Noah
I
Last Name
Silow-Carroll
Abstract Title
Video Based Face Tracking and Recognition with Visual Constraints
Abstract
Now more than ever, there is a demand for computer facial recognition. Computers are faster and have far more memory than humans
and potentially can surpass our ability to recognize people. The goal of our study is to create an interface that takes live or recorded
video, detects the faces in each frame, recognizes the faces and outputs the identity of the detected face in the video. A combination of
algorithms are used for different parts of the process. For face detection, a skin detection algorithm is used to eliminate areas of the frame
without faces. Local binary patterns (LBP) are used to describe the found faces and the results are compared with a database of known
faces using a chi squared algorithm. When perfected, this program will hopefully be able to recognize people in live footage for security
purposes and personal applications.
Key Words Related to Project
video face recognition detection
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Vladimir
Advisor Email
vladimir@cs.rutgers.edu
Pavlovic
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Noah Silow-Carroll is a sophomore in the School of Engineering majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering and minoring in
Mathematics and Psychology.
Email Address
noahsc@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SOE
Class Year
2013
Major
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Stewart L
Last Name
Smith
Abstract Title
Arc Expression in Dorsal and Ventral Hippocampus as Induced by Contextual Discriminative Conditioning
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that intraneuronal gene expression is a critical component of the neurobiological mechanism underlying
the acquisition and retention of memory. Previous work in our lab has demonstrated that one such gene and its protein product, Activity
Regulated Cytoskeletal (ARC) protein, is dramatically upregulated in the hippocampus following some types of hippocampal-dependent
memory. Moreover, ARC has been found to be closely linked with several forms of neuronal plasticity, including long term potentiation,
and may be a likely indicator of the extent to which specific brain areas are undergoing learning-related changes in synaptic strength.
The present study will further explore the potential relationship between ARC expression and hippocampal-dependent memory through
the use of immunohistochemical techniques that will permit the visualization of ARC positive cells in the dorsal and ventral hippocampus
following training in a discriminative contextual conditioning paradigm. Under a discriminative conditioning paradigm, subjects must
distinguish between two chambers, one of which is associated with footshock and the other with safety. In order to examine the
molecular substrates of learning in this paradigm, ARC expression in the dorsal and ventral hippocampal subregions of trained and
untrained subjects were compared using immunohistochemical cell labeling procedures. While significant work remains to be completed,
preliminary data suggests that ARC activity in the dorsal and ventral hippocampus of trained animals is higher than that in untrained
animals. Assuming further examination and quantitative analysis confirm this trend, we may conclude that ARC is an important regulator
of learning-related neuronal plasticity in dorsal and ventral hippocampus.
Key Words Related to Project
Hippocampus, Memory, Learning, Context
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Tim
Advisor Email
totto@rci.rutgers.edu
Otto
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Psychology Building Room 327
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Stewart Smith is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Economics. His interest in learning
and the formation of memory has led to this project.
Email Address
stewarts@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Sameer R
Last Name
Sood
Abstract Title
Augmenting the Mechanical Properties of Cell Contracted Collagen via Photocrosslinking to Strengthen Vascular Grafts
Abstract
Cell-compacted fibrillar hydrogels are being explored as small diameter tissue engineered grafts, but have poor mechanical strength.
Chemical crosslinkers can improve these properties, but are often toxic, require extended incubation times, or are cost prohibitive. We are
mixing native type I collagen (NC) with a novel photocrosslinkable type I collagen (CMA), which maintains the ability to self-assemble
into a fibrillar gel, but includes methacrylate groups that can be crosslinked following activation of a photoinitiator with ultraviolet light.
Preliminary experiments indicate these gels can be photocrosslinked with negligible changes in cell viability, and therefore offer a
potential means of rapidly increasing the functional strength and stiffness of the grafts. To evaluate this potential, we created fibroblastcompacted rings by mixing different ratios of CMA:NC solution containing 2x10^5 cells/mL around a 6.2mm diameter post. Cellmediated compaction was allowed to proceed for one week, which condensed the collagen network and oriented the fibers
circumferentially. A subset of the rings was exposed to UV light in the presence of the photoinitiator, Irgacure 2959. The rings were
transferred to a custom designed fixture on a uniaxial testing device and stretched until failure. Gel compaction rate decreased and
mechanical compliance increased with an increased CMA/NC ratio. However, photocrosslinking of CMA-containing gels increased the
Young‘s modulus 2-4-fold and the ultimate tensile strength 2-3-fold. These results demonstrate that photocrosslinking is a viable means
of rapidly increasing the strength of the vascular tissue equivalents. Future efforts will focus on improving cell-mediated compaction of
CMA.
Key Words Related to Project
Collagen, Crosslinking, Mechanical Analysis, Vascular Graft
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
shreiber@rci.rutgers.edu
Shreiber
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
599 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sameer Sood is a senior at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering and minoring in Psychology.
Email Address
srsood@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2011
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Amanda E
Last Name
Sorensen
Abstract Title
Female Preference of Novel Coloration of the Prepectoral Patch on Metriclima Zebra Male Models
Abstract
The vast array of male breeding color patterns in different Cichlid populations and species suggests an importance in the coloring of these
areas in sexual selection and speciation. My previous work found an unexpected role of novel male breeding colors on male-to-male
aggression, which may be explained by female preference for the novel color pattern. This effect has been seen in other studies in guppies
where the female tended to prefer the males with the novel coloration than those with the normal coloration (Hughes et al. 1999). The
effect of the coloration of the prepectoral area on female choice was tested with laminate modified models of male Metriaclima zebra
cichlids to see if the prepectoral area is a cue or driving factor in speciation. There was no statistically significant difference found in
female preference for the novel colored male models vs. the non-novel model. Although there was no statistically significant difference
found within the constraints of this experiment further research taking into consideration gravidity of the females and social factors of
courting may yet still prove the importance of the prepectoral patch in sexual selection.
Hughes, H.A., Du, L., Rodd, F.H., Reznick,
D.N. (1999). Familiarity Leads to Female Mate Preference for Novel Males in the Guppy, Poecilia Reticulata. Science Direct. 58(4): 907916
Key Words Related to Project
Cichlid sexual selection
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Rebecca
Advisor Email
jordan@aesop.rutgers.edu
Jordan
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
59 Lipman Drive
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Amanda Sorensen is a Junior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences double majoring in Ecology and Natural Resources
and Psychology with a minor in Biological Sciences.
Email Address
amasoren@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2012
Major
Ecology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Kevin
M
Last Name
Spiegler
Abstract Title
Ozone Induces Inflammatory Response in the Lungs of Rodents
Abstract
Ozone is an air pollutant which is thought to activate the inflammatory response in the lung. Ozone is found in the atmosphere, and is
also generated from cars and industrial activity. When ozone is inhaled, it can cause injury to the lung. This involves the activation of
macrophages and other inflammatory cells. Research is currently being undertaken to understand the mechanisms by which ozone
triggers inflammation and injury in the lung. In the present studies, rats were exposed to air or 1.0 ppm ozone gas for 3 hours in air-tight
Plexiglas chambers. Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) fluid and lung tissue were collected from rats 3 -72 hours later. We expect to see
more inflammatory changes and injury in rats exposed to ozone when compared to control animals exposed to air. Inflammation was
assessed by evaluating the type and number of inflammatory cells present, including macrophages and neutrophils, in BAL fluid. Lung
injury was assessed by measuring protein levels in BAL fluid. We found a higher number of inflammatory cells and greater amounts of
protein in rats exposed to ozone when compared to control animals. This suggests that ozone induces inflammation and injury in rat
lung. Studies are currently being carried out to detect other markers of inflammation, such as cytokines and inflammatory proteins. Data
from theses experiments will help in further understanding the mechanism of ozone induced lung inflammation and injury.
Key Words Related to Project
inflammation, lung, toxicity, ozone
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Vasanthi
Advisor Email
sunilvr@eohsi.rutgers.edu>
Sunil
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Pharm-Pharmacology&Toxicology 160 Frelinghuysen Road, Rm 012 Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kevin Spiegler is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience (CBN) and
Psychology and minoring in Chemistry.
Email Address
spiegler@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience (CBN) and Psych
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Poorna
Last Name
Srinivasan
Abstract Title
Iron Metal in the Howardites of 4-Vesta
Abstract
Howardite meteorites, thought to have originated from the asteroid 4-Vesta, contain metal fragments from a highly debated origin. Three
hypotheses are undergoing analysis – the metal could have come from the metallic Vestan core, be derived from impact by a meteorite, or
by reduction of oxidized iron in the parental rock. Microprobe analyses of metal grain compositions in the Winterhaven howardite,
suggest that not one, but two, of these hypotheses are correct.
The Winterhaven howardite contains many fragments of metal in it's
clasts and matrix. Looking specifically at iron, nickel, and cobalt, we see two consistent correlations when comparing these metals. In the
clasts, we see a consistent anti-correlation between Ni vs. Co and Fe vs. Co. In the matrix, we see two trends in Ni vs. Co graphs. Some
analyses show nickel content (>5%), suggesting the metal came from an impacting meteorite. Other data show a trend of cobalt and
nickel decrease– or iron metal enrichment suggest an FeO-Fe0 reduction mechanism. Data shown from the howardites, Malvern,
Bununu, and Kapoeta (Hewins et. al 1979) differ slightly from our results. Our results show a broader spectrum of metal composition,
compared to Hewins and Klein (1979) data that are confined to a narrow range. We therefore suggest that the trend of Ni-Co anticorrelation reflects kamacite-taenite exsolution of originally meteoritic projectile metal while the superimposed trend of co-dilution of Co
and Ni reflects reduction driven addition of metallic iron from originally silicate sources during the evolution of the Winterhaven
howardite breccia.
Key Words Related to Project
4-Vesta, Geology, Metal, Meteorites
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jeremy
Advisor Email
jsd@rci.rutgers.edu
Delaney
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Room 330 Wright Geological Laboratory, 610 Taylor Road Piscataway, NJ 008854-8066
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Poorna Srinivasan is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences, majoring in Geology and minoring in Astronomy. She has always had a
strong interest in the planetary sciences, and one day hopes to pursue a career in Planetary Geology. Poorna is currently conducting
research on meteorites, Howardites in particular, with Dr. Jeremy S. Delaney in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences.
Email Address
psriniv@pegasus.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Geological Sciences
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Amy
Last Name
Suhotliv
Abstract Title
Characterization of the Interaction between the Innate Immune Response and the Nonstructural Protein 1 of the Influenza Virus
Abstract
The Nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) of the influenza viruses is a multifunctional protein with various binding partners that interact in the
subjugation of the immune response to influenza infection. NS1 proteins of both the influenza A and B viruses (NS1A and NS1B) are
integral in the influenza virus‘s function and hypothesized to be potential antiviral targets. These NS1 proteins contain an effector and a
dsRNA binding domain. It is thought that the effector domain dimerization is important in the cooperative binding of dsRNA by NS1A
which is why investigating these interactions is valuable. These interactions are involved in the subversion of the host cells immune
response through the disturbance of the RNaseL pathway, which when activated degrades mRNAs and ribosomal RNAs resulting in an
inhibition of viral replication. The conditions to carry out analytical gel filtration and x-ray crystallography must be optimized to
characterize this interaction. In order to determine the x-ray structure of the dsRNA and NS1A complex, the interaction stoichiometry
was first established using analytical gel filtration by mixing the protein and dsRNA in various ratios. NS1B protein interacts with
interferon induced gene 15 protein (ISG15), a human innate immune response protein, and inhibits ISG15 conjugation to target proteins,
which has been shown to be critical to the antiviral function of ISG15. The complex formation was confirmed as well as the
stoichiometry of the two proteins in the complex formed by gel filtration. The results show that the complex formed between NS1B and
ISG15 is rather stable.
Key Words Related to Project
influenza virus, x-ray crystallography, double stranded RNA, NS1 protein
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Gaetano
Advisor Email
guy@cabm.rutgers.edu, lima@cabm.rutgers.edu
Montelione
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
679 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Amy Suhotliv is a sophomore at the School of Environmental and Biological Scienes majoring in Biochemistry.
Email Address
amysuh@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Environmental an 2013
Major
Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Aaron
X
Last Name
Sun
Abstract Title
Novel Synthesis of Ortho-Amino Quinoline Derivatives and Neocryptolepine Derivatives
Abstract
An acid-mediated reaction between indole derivatives and primary and secondary ortho-aminobenzaldehydes in a redox neutral chemical
reaction was developed. The reactions are performed under reflux conditions, and they yield ortho-amino quinoline derivatives which
are obtained through the ring opening of indole. This study introduces a novel method of synthesizing these compounds using
inexpensive and abundant reagents. In addition to this, facile synthesis of the natural product neocryptolepine has been achieved through
the use of N-methylaminobenzaldehyde and indole, with many other derivatives being obtained through the use of substituted indoles.
Further studies include alkylation of the ortho-amino quinoline derivatives to yield new classes of tetracyclic compounds that have not
been previously synthesized. The compounds synthesized in this project have biological activity including sirtuin inhibition and antimalarial activity, with a rather broad substrate scope for each reaction.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Daniel
Advisor Email
seidel@rutchem.rutgers.edu
Seidel
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Aaron Sun is a sophmore at the school of engineering majoring in computer engineering and chemistry
Email Address
kasera@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
2013
Major
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Jennifer S
Last Name
Sun
Abstract Title
Relationship between Mosquito Larvae and Parasitic Mermithid Nematodes
Abstract
Mermithid nematodes are roundworms which are parasitic in their developing stage and free-living as post-parasites and adults.
Romanomermis iyengari and Strelkovimermis spiculatus are of especial interest due to their ability to highly parasitize the larvae of many
mosquito species. This study aimed to optimize the mass rearing process and subsequent biopesticide application of the nematodes by
analyzing their parasite-host relationship with Culex pipiens pipiens. Different host:parasite ratios were utilized to examine the effect of
parasite load on mosquito heart rate, parasite infection times, host mortality, host pupation rate, nematode survival rate, and nematode
host preference. The data showed an inverse relationship between parasite load and both mosquito heart rate and post-parasite emergence
rate. Conversely, parasite load and infection time were positively correlated. The study also showed that nematode preference varied
between species and infection ratios. Overall, our research indicated that parasite load can affect post-parasite quantity and sex ratio;
therefore, parasite load should be optimized to increase the effectiveness of in vitro nematode production and biological control.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
202C
Advisor
Randy
Advisor Email
gaugler@rci.rutgers.edu
Gaugler
Time
2- 3 p.m.
Panel Name
Bug Experiments
Advisor Address
180 Jones Ave, Rm 214A, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901-8536
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jennifer Sun is in her Pre-Professional 2 Year at the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy.
Email Address
jennsun@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
Ernest Mario School of Phar 2015
Major
Pharmacy
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Rachel
A
Last Name
Swanson
Abstract Title
Exploring the Role of Guanine Metabolism in Regulating Neuronal Morphology
Abstract
The human brain is a complex network of communicating neural cells that we have only begun to understand. The ability of these neural
cells to talk to each other is the most fundamental mechanism of this complex system, and is enabled by extensions of our neural cells,
called dendrites and axons. Disruptions of this network can be hugely detrimental, and have been proposed to be an underlying cause of
pervasive maladies such as Autism and Alzheimer‘s disease. Understanding how these fundamental communication processes work is the
first step in developing effective treatments and preventative measures against these diseases. The activity of a previously identified
protein, cypin, has been shown to cause changes in the growth of dendrites and, interestingly, to also play a role in amino acid
metabolism. Our study seeks to further elucidate the relationship between the metabolism of guanine, the specific amino acid processed
by cypin, and dendrite growth, by working with a series of small hexagonal molecules that mirror the primary biological component of
cypin‘s metabolic activity. These findings are of great significance for two reasons: one, because this data links what has previously been
considered to be two independent essential processes, guanine metabolism and dendritic branching; and two, this link will be established
through the use of small interacting molecules, which is one the first steps in discovering effective drug treatments for diseases caused by
this communication breakdown.
Key Words Related to Project
Neuroscience, morphology, brain
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Bonnie
Advisor Email
firestein@biology.rutgers.edu
Firestein
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
604 Allison Road Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Rachel Swanson, a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences, is triple majoring in Biochemistry, Psychology, and Public Health. Her
pursuits may seem diverse, however they are strongly linked by a common thread, Rachel's fascination with the human mind. This
fascination has driven her to finish up her time at Rutgers by authoring two honors theses and working full-time in two labs, in addition
to enjoying the little time she has left at Rutgers!
Email Address
rachswan@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Rutgers College
Class Year
2011
Major
Biochemistry, Public Health, Psychology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Grace
Last Name
Tam
Abstract Title
Environmental Benefits of Sustainable Plastic Materials
Abstract
There is a growing concern for sustainability, the earth‘s ability to sustain human life while living within the carrying capacity of the
biosphere. Historical examples of environmental consequences such as Easter Island and current human-made disasters like Great Pacific
Garbage Patch bring to attention the ecological issues on hand.Every year, 30 million tons of plastic wastes are generated, only 7 percent
of the total plastic wastes are recovered for recycling, and plastics are increasingly becoming a larger part of the Municipal Solid Waste
stream. Research and development has created many sustainable, alternative materials to replace traditional materials. One such material
is Recycled Plastic Lumbar (RPL) developed at Rutgers University and is applied in the construction industry as railroad ties, I-beams,
bridges etc. RPL was used to build the world‘s first thermoplastic composite bridge, which is capable of sustaining a load exceeding 70
tons at Fort Bragg, NC. A Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) and a Green House Gas (GHG) lifecycle analysis presented evaluates the
cost and environmental benefits of constructing the RPL bridge at Fort Bragg in comparison to traditional materials. The LCCA assesses
the cost of the bridge over its lifetime - from extraction of raw materials, manufacturing, and disposal while the GHG analysis measures
the quantity of greenhouse gas emissions from all stages of its life to show the lifetime and environmental cost benefits of RPL as
compared with traditional materials.
Key Words Related to Project
Sustainability, LCCA, Plastic
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jennifer
Advisor Email
jklynch@rci.rutgers.edu
Lynch
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
98 Brett Road, Piscataway NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Grace Tam is a sophomore class of 2013 in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Mathematics.
Email Address
ggrace35@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Chemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Michael S
Last Name
Tanis
Abstract Title
Are Marine Protected Areas Effective in Reducing Fishing Pressure on the Threatened Queen Conch (Strombus gigas)?
Abstract
Queen conch (Strombus gigas) have been overfished throughout the Caribbean and are currently listed as a commercially threatened
species. Marine protected areas (MPAs) are established to reduce overfishing and restore populations but the effectiveness of these MPAs
is questionable. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of Little Cayman‘s Bloody Bay Marine Park in limiting conch
harvesting and sustaining living populations. The eastern Marine Park boundary divides Grape Tree Bay lagoon into protected and
unprotected area. The lagoon was surveyed in 10m wide transects spaced 125m apart. Within these transects, all observed conch were
counted and the following characteristics were recorded: shell length, lip width, alive/dead, and presence/absence of a chisel opening in
the apical spiral. Shell length and lip width were used to determine age groups. The majority of harvested conch were reproductively
immature juveniles. There was no significant difference in the numbers of harvested conch between protected and unprotected areas
(α=0.05). The transect directly behind the Little Cayman Research Center (LCRC), located in the MPA, contained no harvested conch
and had the largest populations of living adults and juveniles. These results show that the MPA alone is insufficient for reducing conch
harvesting but the presence of the LCRC appears to be effective in reducing and possibly eliminating harvesting. Additionally, the
harvesting of sexually immature conch may contribute to low recruitment and population declines. Reexamining current policies and
increasing enforcement of these policies will be necessary to effectively promote and maintain sustainable local conch populations.
Key Words Related to Project
conservation, management, marine, ecology, conch
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Carrie
Advisor Email
manfrino@reefresearch.org
Manfrino
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Institute of Marine and Coastal Sciences • 71 Dudley Road
Other Students Involved
Tracy Youngster
Presenter Biography
Mike Tanis is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in both Marine Biology and Ecology and
Natural Resources. He has worked for the last year at the Center for Remote Sensing and Spatial Analysis under the direction of Rick
Lathrop. He plans to continue on to graduate school to study marine ecology and conservation. Tracy Youngster is a senior at the School
of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biological Sciences and minoring in Marine Sciences, Ecology and Evolution, and
Plant Science. Her varied interests have led her to work in several fields including microbiology, biotech, tropical agriculture, population
genetics, and marine ecology. She plans to continue onto graduate school and will most likely follow through with her current interest in
marine ecology.
Email Address
mtanis@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Environmental an 2011
Major
Ecology and Natural Resources; Marine Biology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Katherine E
Last Name
Tomaino
Abstract Title
Sex Steroids, Energy Restriction, and Bone Metabolism in Older Overweight and Obese Men.
Abstract
Research shows that significant weight loss in obese men can result in increased levels of sex steroids. Other studies have examined the
role of endogenous sex steroids in maintaining bone mineral density (BMD) under weight-stable conditions. The goal of this study is to
determine how sex steroids are altered during caloric restriction in older men, and to examine if absolute levels or change in levels of
estrogen and testosterone are associated with changes in bone turnover and BMD. Thirty-two men aged 58 ± 6 y were recruited for a 6month weight loss (n=16) or weight maintenance (n=16) diet intervention. BMD was measured using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry.
In a subset of men, serum was measured for total and free testosterone, and estradiol levels. Men were categorized as those with fat loss
(FL >4.6 %) or maintenance (FM). Men in the FL group lost 8.2 ± 5.1 kg weight and 20.1 ± 16.6% of fat mass. FM men lost 1.5 ± 1.7 kg
weight but gained fat mass (1.0 ± 4.4%). Neither group lost lean mass. Surprisingly, there was a greater decrease in trochanter BMD in
FM versus FL men. Repeated measures ANOVA and post hoc analysis showed increased estradiol levels in FM compared to FL men at 1
and 6 months (P <0.05). There were no significant relationships between hormones and BMD. These findings suggest that weight
reduction in men results in less bone loss compared to those who maintain their weight. Potential mechanisms regulating these effects are
being evaluated.
Key Words Related to Project
bone mineral density, caloric restriction, estrogen, testosterone, older obese men
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Sue
Advisor Email
shapses@aesop.rutgers.edu
Shapses
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
96 Lipman Drive, New Brunswick, NJ (Thompson Hall, Cook Campus)
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Katherine Tomaino is a Rutgers College senior, double majoring in Nutritional Science and Religion.
Email Address
ktomaino@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Andrew Q
Last Name
Truong
Abstract Title
Using Zebrafish Model (Danio rerio) to Investigate the Effects of Pyrethroid Insectide Deltamethrin on Glutamatergic System.
Abstract
Deltamethrin is a chemical belonging to the pyrethroid insecticide family derived from the natural compound found in the plant species
Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium. The insecticide is modified from its parent compound so that it is more potent to insects and more
resistant to degradation. After the banning of organophosphates in the US, this class of insecticides became very popular in household
use. In the frequent testing conducted by the NHANES, the metabolite 3-phenoxybenzoic acid of pyrethroid was found in urine samples
of children and pregnant women. Further investigations have linked these children with higher diagnostic rate for hyperactivity. Many
drugs that are used for ADHD patients mediate their property through interaction with the dopaminergic systems, particularly the
dopamine transporter (DAT). In an effort to understand the possible mechanism of pyrethroid insecticides in causing ADHD, several
laboratories have found the changes in DAT expression level and as well as other genes involved in the dopaminergic system using rats
and zebrafish. System given the complexity of the brain, however, some studies show the connections between the dopaminergic system
and several other systems such as the glutamatergic. In this study, zebrafish model is used to investigate the possible alternations caused
by exposure to deltamethrin to the glutamatergic system by looking at the gene expression of EAAT2, GAD, and RELN.
Key Words Related to Project
toxicology, glutamatergic system, deltamethrin, zebrafish
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lori
Advisor Email
lawhite@aesop.rutgers.edu
White
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
76 Lipman Drive - Room 128 New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8525
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Andrew Q. Truong is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biochemistry with concentration in
Toxicology and minoring in Chemistry.
Email Address
antruong@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Chia-Hsun
Last Name
Tsai
Abstract Title
Visualization of the Flow Around the African Brown Knife Fish
Abstract
This a continuation study that focuses on the turbulence and wake produced by the African Brown Knife Fish. Different from the more
common method where the flapping caudal fin is the main method of aquatic propulsion, the knife fish species manipulates its skirt fin in
a sinusoidal motion to maneuver in water. This unique fin motion coupled with a thin and streamlined body allows the knife fish to
maneuver with excellent flexibility as well as generate rapid acceleration. In the previous study, a high-speed camera and the digital
particle image velocimetry (DPIV) technique was used to capture two-dimensional fluid wake profiles generated by the knife fish when
swimming. Distinct velocity gradients and vortex patterns were observed, but the data was incomplete due to the lack of information for
velocity in the third degree of freedom. Thus, this study redesigns the test tank with a longer channel and a prism to accommodate an
additional camera for the stereo PIV technique, and focuses on using the stereo PIV to obtain a more complete picture of the fluid flow
for a more thorough analysis of the effects caused by the sinusoidal skirt fin of the knife fish.
Key Words Related to Project
Propulsion, Sinusoidal, Ribbon fin, Wake, PIV
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Francisco
Advisor Email
diez@jove.rutgers.edu
Diez
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Engineering Building, 98 Brett Road. Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Bryan Rivera, Gregory Hew
Presenter Biography
Chia-Hsun Tsai is a senior at the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering and minoring in Economics.
Bryan Rivera is a senior at the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering. Gregory Hew is a senior at the
School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering.
Email Address
jason89@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Rutgers University
Class Year
2011
Major
Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Jonathan K
Last Name
Tsui
Abstract Title
Synthesis of Drug Conjugates
Abstract
This project seeks to develop and assess the validity of a novel formula by which a drug can be delivered orally over extended periods of
time through the administration of a single capsule. The proposed structure for such a formula consists of three main facets – a carrier
molecule, which must have an extended half-life in humans, a commercially available drug that is to be delivered, and a linker molecule
that conjugates the drug to the carrier and can be innocuously expelled from the body. Our attention has been focused on two target drug
conjugates, both of which utilize a sulfamate linker, for ethinyl estradiol and naltrexone. We are currently developing efficient synthetic
methods by which to produce these two conjugates and as well as assaying their biochemical activity.
Key Words Related to Project
drug, conjugates, synthesis, organic chemistry
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Spencer
Advisor Email
spencer.knapp@rutgers.edu
Knapp
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Wright Rieman Labs 321/312B/317
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jonathan Tsui is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry.
Email Address
jtsui@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Vandan D
Last Name
Upadhyaya
Abstract Title
The Use of Biosafe Non-Genetic Modifying Methods to Generate IPS Cells.
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells are reprogrammed cells that express human embryonic stem cell-like phenotypes. This discovery has
generated a great interest in due to its potential in regenerative medicine. Past studies have primarily used lentiviral or retroviral gene
delivery methods along with 4 pluripotency factors—Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc—to reprogram mammalian cells into IPS cells. This
research introduces a novel method of using baculovirus/BacMAM gene delivery system instead. We aim to determine the bioactivity of
optimal BacMAM vectors containing pluripotency factors as compared to lentiviral gene system. We aim to compare the pluripotencyinduced activity of BacMAM as to that of lentiviral on somatic cell lines. We have hypothesized that pluripotency factors delivered by
BacMAM or lentiviral method should induce reprogramming of somatic cells into of IPS cells. Thus far we have successfully shown
lentiviral reprogramming method and in the process of generating successful IPS cell lines. Once we have optimized the lentiviral
delivery system, we will begin work on BacMAM technology. Overall, the cost, safety, and scalability make BacMAM a very favorable
method of reprogramming mammalian cells. We hope to introduce BacMAM as a novel and clinically relevant procedure, one which can
be feasible in all laboratories.
Key Words Related to Project
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Rick
Advisor Email
ricohen@Biology.Rutgers.Edu
Cohen
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
604 Allison Rd Rm D250, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Vandan Upadhyaya is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences. He is majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring in
Psychology. He plans to attend medical school after his undergraduate.
Email Address
vandan@eden.rutgers.edu
Video Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Amulya
Last Name
Uppala
Abstract Title
Synthesis and Characterization of Bioactive-based Poly(anhydride-esters) for use in Hydrogels
Abstract
Hydrogels are three-dimensional hydrophilic polymer networks that can be used as wound dressings for various types of injuries.
Poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) is a biocompatible polymer commonly used to produce hydrogels. Many drug-loaded PVP-based
hydrogels exhibit rapid and inconsistent drug delivery that prevents effective wound care. Incorporating poly(anhydride-esters) (PAEs)
into hydrogels could allow for bioactive-based wound dressings that release bioactive molecules such as salicylic acid, p-coumaric acid,
ferulic acid, and sinapic acid in a controlled, sustained manner. Techniques such as infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, nuclear
magnetic resonance spectroscopy, gel-permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermal gravimetric analysis
were used to characterize the bioactive-based polymers and their precursors. The interaction between PVP and PAE was also examined to
elucidate the gelation process between the polymer systems. The degradation of the bioactive from the hydrogel will be studied to ensure
the sustained release of the bioactive.
Key Words Related to Project
Poly(anhydride-esters), Bioactive, Hydrogels
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kathryn
Advisor Email
keuhrich@rutgers.edu
Uhrich
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Amulya Uppala is a sophomore at the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy majoring in pharmacy. She hopes of going into a research
intensive field of pharmacy. Currently, she is characterizing bioactive-based poly(anhydride esters).
Email Address
uamulya@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
Ernest Mario School for Pha 2015
Major
Pharmacy
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Cara
A
Last Name
Urban
Abstract Title
Effects Of Dietary Protein On Nitrogen Excretion In The Horse
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate nitrogen levels in the urine, feces, blood, and housing atmosphere of horses whose dietary
protein was excessive. Six mares were fed 700 g/d of soybean meal (SBM) with a maintenance ration (1041 g protein/d), while six
received only maintenance ration (700 g protein/d) as a control (CON). Once adapted, mares were housed for 16 h overnight; the manure
was collected daily and analyzed for nitrogen (N), ammonia (NH3) and organic nitrogen (OrN). Volatized ammonia (airNH3) was tested
over an 8 h period in stalls and by pump. Urine was collected every 2 h overnight during a 16 h period and analyzed for urinary protein.
Blood samples were collected at 8 h and 16 h post feeding and analyzed for blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Significance was determined by
P < 0.05. In manure, SBM was higher than CON for N (P = 0.038) and NH3 (P = 0.015); OrN had no effect of treatment. In urine,
protein varied between Trial 1 and 2 (P = 0.019) and by sample (P = 0.034). BUN varied by treatment, trial, treatment by sample (P <
0.0001), and trial by sample (P = 0.004). For airNH3, SBM was higher than CON (P=0.029) for the overnight collection. These results
show that elevating protein levels in horse diets past recommendations increases ammonia and nitrogen levels in manure and the
atmosphere, and urea in the blood.
Key Words Related to Project
protein, horse, diet, equine
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Carey
Advisor Email
cwilliams@aesop.rutgers.edu
Williams
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Bartlett Hall 213E
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Cara Urban is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Animal Science/Equine Science.
Email Address
caurban@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Animal Science/Equine Science
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Sarangdev M
Last Name
Vaidya
Abstract Title
World Trade Center Dust and Pulmonary Inflammation in Mice
Abstract
The destruction of the World Trade Center on 11 September 2001 resulted in health consequences. This is thought to be primarily due to
inhalation of pollutants into the air. The pollutants, collectively termed ―dust‖, included many coarse and fine particles such as pulverized
cement, glass fibers, asbestos, and lead. Civilians fleeing the crash site, rescue and recovery personnel, as well as cleanup workers during
the aftermath, inhaled a significant amount of this dust. Workers at ground zero, as well as residents in the area who were evaluated 4-6
weeks after the disaster, reported to have respiratory problems like cough and shortness of breath. We hypothesize that inhalation of
WTC dust activates macrophages and causes pulmonary damage. To test this hypothesis, female mice (C57BL/6; 10 weeks; 17-20 g)
were installed intratracheally with Phosphate Buffer Saline (PBS) or WTC dust (20 ug). Animals were sacrificed 3, 7, and 21 days later;
lung tissue and bronchioalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were collected. BAL cells were stained with Giemsa and total protein was evaluated
in BAL fluid. We found that neutrophil number in BAL from mice treated with dust was significantly higher when compared to control
animals. However no changes in BAL protein levels were observed between controls and treated mice. COX2 is a lipid mediator that has
been shown to play a role in the inflammatory response. We next evaluated the effects of WTC dust on COX-2 protein expression in lung
tissue. Treatment of mice with WTC dust resulted in increases in COX-2 expression in the lung. Our data suggests that inhalation of
WTC dust causes inflammatory changes in the lung. Studies are currently ongoing to identify other mediators of inflammation following
WTC dust inhalation.
Support: NIH GM004738, ES004738, CA132624, ES005022
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Vasanthi
Advisor Email
sunilvr@eohsi.rutgers.edu
Sunil
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sarangdev Vaidya is a sophomore in the school of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, and minoring in
Music.
Email Address
svaidya@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Yevgeniy
Last Name
Veltman
Abstract Title
Role of Nociceptin/OrphaninFQ in Regulation of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokine Interleukin-1B and Cognitive Function After Exposure to
Chronic Stress
Abstract
Physiological and behavioral responses to chronic stress are mediated by the neuropeptide Nociceptin/OrphaninFQ. OFQ/N regulates and
interacts with pro-inflammatory cytokine molecules, like Interleukin-1B, in the periphery and brain (CNS). In experiment 1, OFQ/N
wildtypes and knockouts were equally divided into two experimental groups and one control group. The two experimental groups were
chronic mild stress (CMS) or acute stress (AS), and the control group were not stressed (NS). Metabolic measurements – food intake &
water intake – were taken daily. Body weight was measured every other day. The CMS group was subjected to chronic stress 4hrs per day
for fourteen days. The AS and NS groups are handled daily; however, the AS group experienced one stressor 24hrs prior to sacrifice. The
stressors, either alone or in combination, included restraint, fox urine exposure, white noise, cage tilt, and damp bedding. In experiment
1, 24hrs after the last stressor, the mice were sacrificed via rapid decapitation and brain tissue was collected for quantification of
hippocampal IL-1B. Results showed that IL-1B was significantly increased in CMS-KO mice only and in all AS mice. In experiment 2,
we will determine the source of IL-1B in the dorsal hippocampus (e.g, astrocytes, microglia, neurons). The dorsal hippocampus, with
increased IL-1B production, may result in effects on cognitive learning. Experiment 2 will proceed the same as experiment 1, except that
24hrs after the last stressor, mice will undergo spatial learning testing in the Morris Water Maze (MWM). We expect to see impairments
in cognitive function.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Alexander
Advisor Email
kusnecov@rci.rutgers.edu
Kusnecov
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Busch Psychology Building: Rm 233a
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Yevgeniy Veltman is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology/Neuroscience and minoring in psychology. His
research delves into the field of psychoneuroimmunology. Researching the function of the neuropeptide Nociceptin/OrphaninFQ, he
seeks to identify its role in regulation and interaction of pro-inflammatory cytokine molecules in response to chronic stress.
Email Address
eugenev@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2012
Major
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Neeraj
Last Name
Venkatesan
Abstract Title
Automation of Optoelectronic Measurements
Abstract
Optical Waveguides: Testing and Automation of Procedure
One possible next step in computing is to utilize light as a possible
medium to store, modify, and transmit information for computational purposes. Before this can happen however, feasible waveguides that
can contain and transmit light through a medium while maintain signal power must be developed. Furthermore, such devices must be
easily miniaturized and should be integrated, or fabricated onto a chip for practical use. In doing so, testing the signal loss of the
waveguide as well as the performance over a range of wavelengths is necessary. The procedure involves coupling a laser source,
transmitted through optical fiber, with one end of the waveguide. Then the opposite end of the waveguide is coupled with another optical
fiber, which is connected into a light wave multimeter, which reads out the characteristics of the output light signal. Finding the optimal
alignment for testing is challenging and must be very precise as the fibers and waveguide openings are on the order of microns, and even
slight aberrations will render the measurements useless. Control of the testing process is optimized when passed to a computer program.
The goal of this study is to gain experience in waveguide testing so as to develop a graphical interface for the testing procedure and to
optimize it wherever possible. This will expedite testing of new waveguide designs, which are the precursors to basic optical computing.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Wei
Advisor Email
wjiangnj@rci.rutgers.edu
Jiang
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Neeraj Venkatesan is a sophomore at the School of Engineering majoring in Electrical Engineering and minoring in Mathematics and
Economics. He is interested in working in the optoelectronics or communications fields in Electrical Engineering.
Email Address
neerajv@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Electrical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Sai
Y
Last Name
Veruva
Abstract Title
Modeling Traumatic Brain Injury using Organotypic Hippocampal Cultures
Abstract
Being the leading cause of death and disability around the world, traumatic brain injury(TBI) is a subject of enormous importance and
interest. There is still no targeted pharmacological treatment that actively prevents the progression of neurodegeneration during the
secondary injury phase in a TBI. Advancement in this field of study is mandated by the need to be able to reverse the initial brain damage
that was caused by trauma and avert subsequent neurodegeneration. Organotypic hippocampal cultures (OHCs) serve as relevant model
systems to aid the study and advancement of TBI research on medicinal grounds. An organotypic culture is characterized by a complex invitro and multi-cellular environment, holding potential for detailed biological and molecular analyses. The in-vitro model may be made
more realistic (in terms of an injury) by introducing human plasma fibronectin in these cultures because researchers had already
discovered that fibronectin concentrations increase at the site of injury post trauma. Thus, by increasing fibronectin influence in OHCs, a
better injury model may be simulated. This hypothesis is also supported by the physiology of the blood-brain-barrier. After trauma, the
blood-brain-barrier is breached and there is a temporary influx of plasma, leading to edema and inflammation of the surrounding tissue.
Thus, the goal of this project is to emulate the blood-brain-barrier breakdown that may produce an accurate model of TBI. Once the
model is generated, it can be used for several advancements in the field including the testing of therapeutics and drugs for mitigating
tissue damage or tissue degeneration.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Rene
Advisor Email
schloss@soemail.rutgers.edu
Schloss
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, 599 Taylor Road, Room 204
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sai Veruva is a senior at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering and minoring in Economics. He has been a
volunteer researcher at Dr. Martin Yarmush‘s and Dr. Rene Schloss‘s labs since spring semester of 2009. Neuro-engineering, along with
stem cell research is the track that holds Sai‘s fascination. With over 2 years of experience, he is excited to continue working and setting
a foundation for future breakthroughs and medical advances.
Email Address
sveruva@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
Rutgers School of Engineeri 2007
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Sana
Last Name
Wajid
Abstract Title
Artificial Evolution Director (AED)
Abstract
Nature has proven herself to be the most effective engineer in existence. She has created enzymes that can easily do reactions that would
be nearly impossible otherwise. With Directed Evolution, we hope to engineer a bacterium that will take advantage of this natural
phenomenon to create even more efficient enzymes. Some mathematical models imply that control over mutation rate will allow us
quickly explore hot spots in a "protein space." Therefore we would like construct bacteria with a genetic circuit that can change mutation
rate in response to a simple stimulus. The main point we intend on answering is on the ability of the Artificial Evolution Director to
replace the usual directed evolution protocols with error-prone PCR and the generation of large clone libraries. We propose to find out if
the AED is a more reliable, specific, and a cheaper method than the usual protocols. Does the AED have a greater ability to increase
efficiency rates of the protein of interest and to reduce protein unfolds? What other modifications in the host system (E. coli) can be made
to improve the system – both genetically and biologically? Is this vessel able to work with other proteins besides the Sulfatase enzyme?
Protein engineering is an emerging science that aims to design proteins and enzymes to carry out predicted functions. How proteins can
be engineered with specific targets of amino acid residues is difficult; however, the AED may provide a more rapid result to this problem.
Key Words Related to Project
genetic engineering, proteins, synthetic biology, iGEM
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Eric
Advisor Email
lam@aesop.rutgers.edu
Lam
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
59 Dudley Road
Other Students Involved
Pratik Patel, Chris Kozar, Ethan Stern
Presenter Biography
Sana Wajid is a junior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biotechnology Bioinformatics and minoring
in Biochemistry. Pratik Patel is a junior at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering and Tissue Engineering.
Kevin Lu is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry along with Mathematics.
Chris Kozar is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biotechnology Bioinformatics and minoring
in Biochemistry. Ethan Stern is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience.
Email Address
swajid@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2012
Major
Biotechnology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Anton
Last Name
Woronczuk
Abstract Title
Mass Transfer Coefficients for Selected PAHs and OCPs
Abstract
The mass transfer coefficient for air/water exchange (v a/w) is an important property of organic pollutants and applicable to remediation
efforts. This parameter is critical in modeling the amount of Persistant Organic Pollutants (POPs) lost to or absorbed from the air.
Samples obtained by micrometeorological techniques were analyzed for fluxes of these organic compounds. The v a/w for PAHs and
OCPs was determined by data analysis using tandem quadrupole gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS-MS). Calculated
air/water exchange values for these two classes of compounds are reported in this research study.
Key Words Related to Project
fate and transport, environmental chemistry, PAHs, OCPs, pesticides
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lisa
Advisor Email
rodenburg@envsci.rutgers.edu
Rodenburg
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Anton Woronczuk is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Environmental Science.
Email Address
czuk@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Environmental Science
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Brett
J
Last Name
Wyckoff
Abstract Title
Numerical Experiments Using Graphics Processors
Abstract
Graphics processor units are becoming a mainstream utility in scientific computational analysis and yield considerable synergies when
paired with central processing units. The Navier-Stokes equation is solved using the alternating direction implicit method while its
reductions mathematically into non-linear advection and linear diffusion terms are benchmarked to produce economically deterministic
comparisons. Using the Nvidia GPU code called CUDA, the creation of a C++ object enabled more efficient experimentation and
provided excellent benchmarking utilities for chronicling memory usage. With the implementation of Dirichlet and Nuemann boundaries,
a mixture of multi-step, Adams-Bashforth, and Crank-Nicolson methods, additional comparisons are made. Initial findings using the
Burgers equation have resulted in at least one order of magnitude improvement over monetarily comparable CPU architectures. Problems
arising due to memory dimensional insufficiency were found and attempted to be corrected using rapidly looped explicit cycles.
Collecting intermediate calculations for animation or analysis is limited in its memory transfer rate because of the PCI Express
bottleneck. The magnitude reduction in computational time and superior energy efficiency demonstrates the power of massively parallel
arithmetic logic units paired with current CPU architectures.
Key Words Related to Project
CFD, ADI, CUDA, C++, NVIDEA
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Prosenjit
Advisor Email
pbagchi@jove.rutgers.edu
Bagchi
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Brett Wyckoff is a senior at the Rutgers College of Engineering majoring in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering.
Email Address
bwyckoff@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
Rutgers College of Engineer 2011
Major
Mechanical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Akshar D
Last Name
Yagnik
Abstract Title
The Effects of Bacterial Superantigen Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B on Extinction of Conditioned Fear
Abstract
Superantigens (SAg), such as Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B (SEB), are bacterial toxins that, unlike ordinary antigens, stimulate a higher
percentage of T-cells allowing for each T-cell to create an exaggerated response of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Cytokines are known to
modulate learning and serve as systemic stressors. A series of experiments were conducted in order to determine whether SEB alters the
rate of fear extinction. Experiment 1 was conducted in order to determine at what dose (50-ug or 10-ug/mouse) SEB augmented
appetitive neophobia and produced an immunological response. Results showed that SEB (n=4; 10-ug/mouse) significantly increased IL2 production in the spleen and significantly decreased the consumption of a novel liquid (Prosobee infant formula). In experiment 2, mice
were injected with either SEB (n=10, 10-ug/mouse) or physiological saline (SAL; n=10). An open field test was conducted to determine
whether SEB altered general locomotor activity. Animals were habituated to the open field apparatus for two days. On day three, mice
were injected with either SEB (n=4) or saline (n=4) and the total distance traveled was measured 2 hours after injection and once daily
for 6 consecutive days. It was found that SEB decreased locomotor activity in the SEB group compared to saline-treated mice for a
period of three days post injection. In a third experiment, it will be determined whether SEB (10-ug/mouse) alters the rate of acquisition
of fear extinction (n=5/group). It is expected that a delay in fear extinction will be seen in SEB treated mice.
Key Words Related to Project
SEB, Immunology, Fear Conditioning, Cytokines
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Alexander
Advisor Email
kusnecov@rci.rutgers.edu
Kusnecov
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Room 233A, Psychology Bldg., Busch Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Akshar Yagnik is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Biological Sciences.
Email Address
ayagnik@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Stephanie
Last Name
Yee
Abstract Title
The Effect of Restraint Stress on Mouse Trigeminal VR1 and OG1 Gene Expression
Abstract
Osteocalcin, a calcium binding protein, is found mainly in bone but is also expressed in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and trigeminal ganglia
(TG). The function of osteocalcin in the nervous system is not yet fully understood but prior research suggests its probable role in
propioception and other sensory modalities. Osteocalcin expressed in the TG is believed to play a role in propioception and nociception
due to its co-expression with pain receptor VR1. The objective of this research was to examine the effect of restraint stress on the
expression of osteocalcin expression in trigeminal ganglia (TG). 12 WT mice were stressed by foot restraint immobilization for 2
hoursand 12 WT mice were used as controls. RNA from TG and DRG were extracted and probed for genes OG1, VR1 and Tac1/SP via
RT-PCR. OG1 is the osteocalcin gene and both VR1 and Tac1/SP (substance P) are examined as indicators of the role of TG osteocalcin
in nociception. The adrenal glands were extracted to validate the occurrence of a stress response in the experimental mice. We expect
that there will be a positive correlation between the levels of osteocalcin and VR1 expression and the extent of a stress response. So far
we have only collected data for TG and found significantly higher levels in the expression of OG1, VR1 and Tac1/SP in the restraint.
The findings of this study will confirm that osteocalcin plays a role in stress response and provide further evidence of its role in the
nervous system.
Key Words Related to Project
Osteocalcin, Stress Response
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Patricia
Advisor Email
buckedp@rci.rutgers.edu
Buckendahl
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Center of Alcohol Studies, 607 Allison Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Stephanie Yee is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences with a double major in Cell Biology & Neuroscience and Psychology.
Email Address
s3yee@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Cell Biology & Neuroscience and Psychology
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Elaine
Y
Last Name
Yu
Abstract Title
Water Supply Project in NSCI Guatemala
Abstract
Water is one of the basic necessities of life. It is often taken for granted due to its availability in developed countries. In many areas of the
world, people struggle to obtain water. This is the situation for the community of Nueva Santa Catarina Ixtahuacán (NSCI) in the Solola
region of Guatemala. The 4,000 residents of NSCI currently only have access to an average of one hour of water supply per day. The
Rutgers University Student Chapter of Engineers Without Borders-USA has taken on a project to provide a regular, uninterrupted supply
of drinking water to the residents of NSCI. The project aims to implement a sustainable water supply system by replacing broken pumps
and repairing an existing pipeline within the community‘s water supply system. To date, the Rutgers Student Chapter team has completed
three assessment trips and is planning to implement the project in January 2011. During the assessment trips, the team has collected data
on existing infrastructure, water quality, as well as the water supply system that is currently in use. In addition, information on the
lifestyle and opinion towards the project of the residents of NSCI has also been obtained. With the data obtained and the guidance of
professional mentors from CDM, an international engineering consulting firm, the Guatemala Project team has been working on a
sustainable design to pump water from a sufficient and reliable source that is 11 km away from the town.
Key Words Related to Project
Pump, Water Supply
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Anthony
Advisor Email
aswelch@rci.rutgers.edu
Welch
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
B110 Engineering Building
Other Students Involved
Pratik Patel, Herbert Silva, Namratha Kulkarni
Presenter Biography
Elaine Yu is a junior studying Biomedical Engineering and Statistics. She has been involved in the Rutgers University Student Chapter of
Engineers Without Borders (EWB)-USA. Through EWB, she has been working with a group of engineering students and professional
mentors to develop a sustainable solution to the water shortage problem in NSCI, Guatemala. She has found her involvement in EWB
most rewarding and is working hard with fellow students to make the project reality.
Email Address
elaineyu@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Biomedical Engineering and Statistics
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Remie
A
Last Name
Yu
Abstract Title
Functional Interfacing of Photosynthetic Systems to Conducting Supports for Solar Energy Capture and Conversion
Abstract
The photosystems were interfaced to solid conducting supports that allowed efficient harvesting and conversion of solar energy. This
process was based on the photosynthetic membrane of the bacterium Rhodospirillum rubrum, which can be modified by numerous
biochemical, spectroscopic, and ultrastructural probes. The chromophores located in light-harvesting complexes can be excited with
light, which then transfers energy towards the photochemical reaction center. Electrons produced in the resulting transmembrane charge
separation will be tunneled toward the electrode, which will produce light-induced currents. In order to assess the flow of energy and
electrons between protein complexes and the surface, a new assay procedure, which includes electrochemistry and fast repetition rate
fluorescence spectroscopy, was used to quantify the resulting energy conversion and gains. Because of the use of photosynthetic
membrane vesicles in this approach, there is potential for rapid screening of various natural and artificial solar energy conversion
devices. Atomic force microscopy was used to acquire surface views of the attached structures, completing the full structural and
functional description of the interfaced photosynthetic complexes. The result of these studies will allow further understanding of the
functioning of the light-harvesting and reaction center complexes. Simulations concerning protein insertion, self-assembly, and
diffusion, will also be developed to understand the integration of protein crowding and its association with membrane structure. These
simulations will assist in the design of bio-inspired supramolecular assemblies that are incorporated into lipid bilayers attached to metal
surfaces, which will improve energy conversion efficiencies.
Key Words Related to Project
Solar Energy Photosynthetic Bacteria
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Robert
Advisor Email
rniederm@rci.rutgers.edu
Niederman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Nelson Biology Laboratories, A317, Busch Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Remie Yu is a sophomore at the School of Engineering majoring in Chemical Engineering and minoring in Math.
Email Address
remieyu@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Chemical Engineering
Natural & Physical Scien
First Name
Gregory
Last Name
Zegarek
Abstract Title
The Significance of TrkB Receptor Isoforms on BDNF Signaling
Abstract
The proper formation of the dendritic arbor is critical for neuronal processing. Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a wellknown extrinsic factor regulating the dendritic arbor formation. Previous research has shown that application of global BDNF greatly
enhances dendritic growth and increases dendrite number in pyramidal neurons (McAllister et al., 1995). Proteolytically processed BDNF
binds to the TrkB receptor, which initiates a signal cascade within the neuron. TrkB receptor proteins exist in three different isoforms: a
full length form and two truncated forms T1 and T2. Furthermore, the effects of the different isoforms on the neuron are different. When
overexpressed, full length TrkB increases dendritic branching proximal to the soma. Contrastingly, truncated TrkB T1 increases distal
elongation of the dendrite processes (Yacoubian et al., 2000).
Key Words Related to Project
dendrite branching bdnf cypin
Category
Natural & Physical Sciences
Room
Advisor
Bonnie
Advisor Email
firestein@biology.rutgers.edu
Firestein
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Nelson Biological Laboratories 604 Allison Road Piscataway. NJ 08854-8082
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Gregory Zegarek is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and Philosophy.
Email Address
gzegarek@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and Philoso
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Yasin
M
Last Name
Abul-Huda
Abstract Title
Hypersonic Vehicle Control Technique Using Energy Deposition
Abstract
Since the launch of NASA‘s Hyper-X Program, hypersonic vehicles, such as the scramjet-powered X-43A are capable of reaching speeds
of Mach 9. At such high speeds, conventional mechanisms used to maneuver supersonic and subsonic aircrafts are less effective due to
their size, weight, and the intense aerodynamic loading they experience. Research has suggested that pulsed energy deposition upstream
of a body in supersonic flow causes a reduction in drag by reducing wave drag associated with the shape of the shockwave [1]. To
investigate the potential drag reduction effects and evaluate it as a method for active aerodynamic control, laser energy deposition
experiments near the stagnation point of the sphere were performed using a supersonic wind tunnel facility. An Nd: YAG laser was used
for the pulsed energy source which was focused one diameter upstream from a sphere using a 100-mm focal length convex lens. A
sequence of schlieren images showing the interaction of the blast wave (formed by the plasma) and shockwave was recorded and reveals
a complex interaction where the shockwave deforms and further detaches from the sphere. This suggests a fluctuation in pressure on the
nose of the sphere and in turn a change in the drag force. Further experiments will be conducted with a pressure transducer mounted at
the stagnation point of the sphere to dynamically measure pressure variations caused by the blast wave. Particle image velocimetry (PIV)
will also be implemented to characterize the velocity flow field near the surface of the sphere during shockwave deformation.
[1]
Sohail H. Zaidi, M. N. Shneider, and R. B. Miles, ―Shock-Wave Mitigation Through Off-Body Pulsed Energy Deposition,‖ AIAA Paper
No. 2002-2703, June 2002.
Key Words Related to Project
hypersonic drag reduction energy deposition
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Tobias
Advisor Email
rossmann@jove.rutgers.edu
Rossmann
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
98 Brett Road Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Yasin Abul-Huda is a junior at the School of Engineering studying Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
Email Address
yasien@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Austin
W
Last Name
Allen
Abstract Title
Modeling and Experimental Study of Tire/Road Force Distribution Using a Vision-Based ―Smart Tire‖ Design
Abstract
Modeling and Experimental Study of Tire/Road Force Distribution Using a Vision-Based ―Smart Tire‖ Design:
Tire/road interaction
plays an important role in the safe operation of motor vehicles. Accurate modeling and experimental validation of the tire/road friction
force distributed over a tire‘s contact patch is challenging due to the complexity of tire/road interaction and lack of an in-site sensing
mechanism. In this project, we try to build an analytical modeling framework of the tire/road friction force and to validate such a
modeling development through a computer vision-based ―smart tire‖ testing kit. We first build the ―smart tire‖ testing setup and analyze
the tire contact footprint captured by the vision system. Then we analyze the slip distribution to find out the tire/road contact force though
physical tire/road friction models. Mathematical models are developed, by extending existing theories of contact mechanics and tire
dynamics, to predict how tires and varying road surfaces would interact with one another. The results of this project can be used to
enhance and develop new tire/road friction models and therefore be used for designing advanced safety controls for vehicles and
motorcycles.
Key Words Related to Project
Tire Friction Force Displacement Distribution
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jingang
Advisor Email
jgyi@rutgers.edu
Yi
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Austin Allen is a junior in the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical Engineering.
Email Address
austinal@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Mechanical Engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Jonathan J
Last Name
Chiu
Abstract Title
Measuring and Modeling Human Workflows
Abstract
The GRAIL real time localization system is a general purpose, adaptable system designed to determine the position of a device in a
physical space in real time. The purpose of this project is to utilize GRAIL‘s capabilities along with other wireless technologies to
measure the usage of a room by tracking chair movement. This study uses transmitters, landmarks, and a server in order to record chair
movement. The transmitters send data packets to a landmark which transfers the data to the server, where it is stored. A clustering
algorithm is then used to determine whether a chair was moving based on the signal strength contained in the data packets.
Experimentation with various sensors revealed that the accelerometers in the motion-activated transmitters were unreliable and did not
detect motion at times. It is expected that transmitters that simply beacon every second will produce better results, but will be slightly
more difficult to analyze. It is anticipated that these transmitters will provide accurate results that can be used to begin determining their
actual locations. The reliability of certain types of transmitters as well as the algorithms used will decide whether or not implementation
in the Rutgers computer science labs will be possible in the near future.
Key Words Related to Project
localization, chairs, motion sensor, wifi
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Richard
Advisor Email
rmartin@cs.rutgers.edu
Martin
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
110 Frelinghuysen Rd. Piscataway, NJ 08854-8019
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jonathan Chiu is a junior at the School of Engineering at Rutgers majoring in Computer Engineering. He is an active member of the
Delta Epsilon Iota Academic Honor Society, and enjoys working with computer hardware in his free time.
Email Address
jchiu09@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Rutgers University
Class Year
2012
Major
Computer Engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Ishan
M
Last Name
Desai
Abstract Title
Micro-Structural Design and Prototyping of Acoustic Metamaterials
Abstract
Metamaterials are man-made materials engineered to provide properties, such as acoustic cloaking, which are not available in nature. An
acoustic cloak enables acoustic wave energy to be directed around an object. As a first step towards fabricating a cloak, this research
simulates a fluid-like material (a metamaterial) that can achieve this effect. The metamaterial has the property of supporting a biaxial
stress in a desired manner compared to a compressible fluid. A system of small cylindrical particles in point contact that impact the
behavior of the macroscopic system is studied.
Key Words Related to Project
Sound Invisbility Cloak
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Andrew
Advisor Email
norris@rutgers.edu
Norris
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Engn - Mech & Aerospace Engn 98 Brett Road Piscataway, NJ 08854-8058
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ishan Desai is a junior at the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical Engineering.
Email Address
ishand@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2012
Major
Mechanical Engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Andrea R
Last Name
Ficarra
Abstract Title
Students Knowledge of Free Radical Properties and Antioxidant Identification
Abstract
The World Health Organization predicts that by 2020 global cancer rates will increase by 50%. Fortunately, studies indicate that
consumption of antioxidant rich foods, which protect against free radicals may aid in cancer prevention and management. In a five
question survey, administered in campus dining halls, males and females of various race and ethnic backgrounds ranging from 18-23
years old (n=108) were randomly queried on their comprehension of antioxidants and free radicals. In a series of multiple choice
questions students selected the function and purpose of free radicals. Participants also identified antioxidants from a list of nutrients. A
significantly low number (p<0.001) of first year students (36.4%) correctly identified the molecular function of free radicals in
comparison with 72.0% of upperclassmen (second-year and above).The same pattern holds true when first year students (30.3%) and
upperclassmen (64.7%) were asked to determine the purpose of free radicals (p=0.001). In addition, 55.5% of students failed to report
Vitamin E and Lycopene as antioxidants. These results suggest that the majority of first year students lack education on free radical
function and purpose as well as which nutrients possess antioxidant properties. These findings imply a need for further awareness on free
radical and antioxidant functions in this population. Promoting awareness on the harmful effects of free radicals may influence first year
students to increase their consumption of antioxidant-rich foods. Educating college students, especially first year, on the beneficial
properties of antioxidants may help stabilize predicted cancer rates and transcend to future generations reversing this projection.
Key Words Related to Project
antioxidants, free radicals, dining hall, dietary sources
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Peggy
Advisor Email
peggyp@rci.rutgers.edu
Policastro
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Davison Hall, Room 213 26 Nichol Avenue New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Christopher Gunning, Maryanna Tosi
Presenter Biography
Andrea Ficarra is a second year student at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Nutritional Sciences,
dietetics option. Courtney Lee is a third year student at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Nutritional
Sciences, dietetics option and minoring in Animal Science. Erin Gager is a third year student at the School of Environmental and
Biological Sciences majoring in Nutritional Sciences, dietetics option. Marina Vineis is a third year student at the School of
Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Nutritional Sciences, dietetics option.
Email Address
aficarra@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2013
Major
Nutritional Sciences
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Chuan
Last Name
Guo
Abstract Title
Ultra-fast Laser Beam Interactions with Tissue
Abstract
Abstract Nowadays, ultra-fast laser beam has various applications especially in medical filed. It is used to remove tattoos, eliminate
cancer cells, treat cataract and so on. The heat conduction process plays an important role in the laser-tissue interaction. In this research, a
model consists of human skin tissue cylinder and laser beam with specific heat flux is set up. The temperature fields in the cylinder under
some specific conditions are found by the computer program COMSOL. Since the heat flux of the laser beam has Gaussian distribution,
during the modeling, three or more Gaussian shapes are developed to represent different types of laser beams. Besides, the human skin
tissue has different layers: epidermis, fat and dermis. Each layer has different coefficients in heat conduction. As the condition in the
model is set, a specific temperature field is derived. Based on the temperature field, the heat effect on different depth in the tissue is clear
to see. In one application of the ultra-fast laser beam, to eliminate the tumor in skin, the temperature at the location of the tumor is
significant
Key Words Related to Project
Ultra-fast Laser
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Time
Advisor
Zhixiong
Advisor Email
Panel Name
Guo
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Chuan Guo is a junior at the School of Engineering majoring in Civil Engineering.
Email Address
chuanguo@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
engineering school
Class Year
2012
Major
Civil engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Ankur
C
Last Name
Gupta
Abstract Title
Generation of an Inducible Construct that Expresses Methylthioadenosine Phosphorylase
Abstract
Methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP) is an enzyme which metabolizes methylthioadenosine (MTA) through the salvage pathway
to yield adenine and methionine. In many cancers, tumors may lack MTAP and therefore produce adenine and methionine through de
novo purine synthesis. As a result, de novo purine synthesis inhibitors are highly effective in combating MTAP deficient cancer cells.
However, as the dosage of chemotherapy is increased, normal cells are also affected. This study aims to combat this problem by using
MTA as a chemoprotectant for the normal cells. This will allow for the administration of increased doses of chemotherapy agents to
patients with far less deleterious consequences as more adenine will be generated to block the effects of the drugs on normal cells. In this
study, I engineered H28 cells (MTAP positive mesothelioma cell line) to become MTAP negative. This was done using a lentiviral
MTAP shRNA hairpin construct and was validated via a Western blot. For future studies, I propose to add doxycyclin to the inducible
MTAP negative H28 cells, which should result in the activation of the MTAP gene. Next, I will test the efficacy of 6-thioguanine and
Methotrexate separately and in combination on these H28 MTAP negative cells versus MTAP positive H28 cells. Then, I will use 6thioguanine and Methotrexate in combination with MTA to see if there is a simultaneous increase in chemotherapy efficacy against
mesothelioma cells and protection for normal cells. These MTAP deficient and MTAP induced cell lines will be used for in vitro and in
vivo studies.
Key Words Related to Project
Mesothelioma MTAP Chemoprotection
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Joseph
Advisor Email
bertinoj@umdnj.edu
Bertino
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
195 Little Albany Street, New Brunswick, NJ
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ankur Gupta is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences and is majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience. He is currently conducting
research under the guidance of Dr. Joseph Bertino at the Cancer Institute of New Jersey and will be applying to Medical Schools this
summer.
Email Address
ankurg@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Rutgers SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Jayana
Last Name
Kenana
Abstract Title
Mechanical Properties of reinforced PEEK
Abstract
Poly ether ether ketone (PEEK) is a semi-crystalline polymer that is essential in the construction of automotive and aerospace structures.
PEEK can be mixed with reinforcing agents such as carbon nano-tubes (CNT), carbon nano-fibers (CNF), and carbon micro-fibers (CF)
in attempt to improve properties. The goal is to find the most efficient measurement of reinforcing agents in the polymer in order to
receive maximum results for the lowest cost and energy use. A novel injection molding machine equipped with a screw design that
allows high compounding was used to compound and fabricate PEEK composites in one processing step. The following percentages of
CF-PEEK were made: 5-95, 10-90, and 20-80. The CNF-PEEK samples consisted of more combinations of the following percentages:
0.1-99.9, 1-99, 2-98, and 5-95. The mechanical properties of the PEEK composites are presented in tension, flexure, and impact,
according to ASTM standards.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jennifer
Advisor Email
jklynch@rci.rutgers.edu
Lynch
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
98 Brett Road Piscataway, NJ
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jayana Kenana is a sophmore student in the School of Engineering and majoring in Biomedical Engineering. She is also a majoring in
Exercise Science and Sport Studies-Applied Kinesiology Option. She hopes to find a career in the field of biomechanics after college. In
her free time she enjoys working out and running.
Email Address
jkenana@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Biomedical Engineering and Exercise Science
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Jared
G
Last Name
Knoblauch
Abstract Title
Efficient Analysis of Mass Spectrometer Data
Abstract
Modern researchers deal with large amounts of technical data on a daily basis. Minimizing the amount of time needed to produce results
from these data can help researchers spend their time more effectively. The Basic Peak Analysis Program automates peak integration
from mass spectrometer files to analyze the quantity of approximately 40 given metabolites in an organic sample. This program takes an
XML file exported by the mass spectrometer and decodes the Base64-encrypted information about the data points in the file. From there,
it sorts the data points into proper peaks that each represent a given metabolite from the sample. Each peak is then integrated over a
retention time window defined by the user, and the program outputs a list of each peak‘s max height and area. If done correctly, this
program should produce results very similar to the software usually used to analyze the data, but will reduce the amount of time spent in
the analysis from several hours to around half an hour or less, freeing up time for researchers to do more productive and creative work.
Key Words Related to Project
Mass Spectrometer Peak Analysis
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Time
Advisor
Elizabeth
Advisor Email
Panel Name
Burrows
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jared Knoblauch is a sophomore in the School of Engineering studying Electrical and Computer Engineering.
Email Address
jknoblau@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Electrical Engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Alyssa
K
Last Name
Kosmides
Abstract Title
Circadian Cortisol Dynamics Using a Secretory Model
Abstract
In silico models are often constructed to aid in the understanding of disease and the production of relevant intervention strategies.
Several existing models study the acute inflammatory response, which is of importance in multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and
sepsis, both of which have high mortality rates. However, no current model of inflammation considers the unique secretory dynamics of
cortisol whose secretion has been hypothesized to drive rhythms in key components of the inflammatory response. Cortisol is secreted in
a pulsatile and circadian manner, and these characteristics vary with stress. These variations cause both changes in the dynamics of the
inflammatory response because they drive the variability in cytokine and hormone production as well as intrinsically relay important
information about the system. Changes in feedback within the hypothalamic-pituatary-adrenal axis alter the pulsatile pattern of cortisol
secretion, leading to a propagation of events downstream. Here, we build on a previous model of the acute inflammatory response by
presenting a method for representing the pulsatile secretion of cortisol in which pulses are the output of a continuous system. Effects on
the homeostatic dynamics of the hypothalamic-pituatary-adrenal axis are analyzed as well as its potential in a full inflammatory model.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Ioannis
Advisor Email
yannis@rci.rutgers.edu
Androulakis
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
BME Building, Room 212
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alyssa Kosmides is a junior at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering and minoring in Computer Science.
Email Address
School Name
kosmides@scarletmail.rutgers.edu School of Engineering
Poster 12-2pm
Class Year
2012
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Alex
Last Name
Krasner
Abstract Title
Quantifying Motion of a Single Joint in Healthy and Impaired Subjects
Abstract
The goal of this research is to develop a method to accurately quantify movement disorders in the hemiplegic population, specifically in
children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). CP is a neurological condition that impairs the physical function of thousands of children, who suffer
for their entire lives. Most of these children experience spasticity, which causes motion impairment and, in most cases, difficulties with
their activities of daily living. We developed a platform for quantifying movement smoothness relating to spasticity: the Transient
Accelerative Measurement Interface (TAMI). Repetitive elbow flexions and extensions of controls and persons with stroke or cerebral
palsy were recorded, while their arms were supported in a manipulandum. Results showed that: (1) impairments related to spasticity can
be quantified using phase plane analysis and (2) TAMI may offer clinical benefits by delivering targeted therapies to clients‘ subjects in a
real-time format, with simple metrics that can be easily interpreted.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
William
Advisor Email
billcraelius@gmail.com
Craelius
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
599 Taylor Road, Piscataway NJ, 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alex Krasner is a sophomore at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering.
Email Address
krasner@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Caio César
Last Name
Liberato
Abstract Title
Impact of Addition of Bauxite Residue in the Hardened State of Cement Pastes
Abstract
Bauxite residue (BR) is a slurry waste from the Bayer process, whose generation is increasing. The depletion of the bauxite ore intensify
the waste quantity of the process, so that the residue-ore ratio ranges from 0,5 to 2,0. All this material generated is discharged into special
landfills and dams, which have large costs and potential environmental problems.
For this reason, many works in different areas, like agriculture, metallurgy, catalysis, water filtration and construction materials, try to
develop applications to the residue. No large-consume application has been developed until now.
Therefore, this work focus on application of the bauxite residue in cementitious pastes, as cement is a widely consumed material. This
work is taken by evaluating the effect of partial substitution of cement by the residue in those pastes on their hardened state properties,
such as porosity, mechanical resistance and modulus of elasticity. Two kinds of cement were used, one with 21% of filler and another
with about 70% of blast furnace slag. The results showed that the increasing content of the residue in pastes maintain the mechanical
resistance, the modulus of elasticity and the total porosity despite increasing the closed porosity.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Time
Advisor
Rafael Giulian Pileggi
Advisor Email
rafael.pileggi@poli.usp.br
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Avenida Professor Almeida Prado, Travessa 2, nº83
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Undergraduate student of Materials Engineering of Escola Politécnica of University of São Paulo – Brazil (EPUSP), Caio César Liberato
(20), participates, since 2009, in a scientific initiation project that studies fresh and hardened properties of cementitious pastes blended
with bauxite residue at the Department of Civil Construction of EPUSP. The presenter was awarded with honorable mention at XVIII
SIICUSP (2010). Liberato speaks English, Italian and Portuguese.
Email Address
ccliberato@gmail.com
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
Escola Politécnica of Univer 2012
Major
Materials Engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Jonathan C
Last Name
Maltz
Abstract Title
Algorithms For Planning Your Courses At Rutgers
Abstract
Course scheduling is a complex process that must take into account a number of factors: prerequisite structures, corequisites, and student
preferences. This research aims to simplify the process of scheduling by finding critical courses, those which must be taken in a certain
semester in order for a schedule to be successfully completed. Using past course data, various course combinations were run through a
scheduling algorithm with various lengths of time allotted to completing the schedule. The results were then analyzed to compare various
majors against each other and see if there was any discernible pattern in course criticality
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Richard
Advisor Email
rmartin@cs.rutgers.edu
Martin
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jonathan Maltz is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Computer Science and History.
Email Address
jmaltz@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Computer Science/History
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Alanna S
Last Name
Murday
Abstract Title
Elucidating AhR and B-Raf Pathways, and the Role of p53, in Melanoma
Abstract
p53 is a tumor suppressor protein that regulates apoptosis and cell proliferation. A mutation in the p53 gene is present in 50% of human
cancers, but not usually found in melanomas. However, a mutation in B-Raf, a serine/threonine specific kinase that is part of the Ras-RafMEK-ERK signaling cascade, is commonly associated with melanoma, but not other cancers. Single point mutations in B-Raf trigger cell
proliferation of melanocytes. Increased levels of matrix metalloproteinases are seen with both B-Raf and p53 mutations. They function as
extracellular matrix proteins and are linked to tumor metastasis. Treatment with the polychlorinated dioxin TCDD causes a xenobiotic
toxic response. TCDD is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon found in the environment and has been linked to cancer-promoting
responses. TCDD causes these cell responses through activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway. The purpose of this
study is to show a correlation between p53 / BRaf status and AhR and MMP expression. Each of the four possible wildtype/mutant
statuses is represented in both zebrafish and human tissue culture. In this study, the treated zebrafish were rotated three days TCDD
treatment followed by four days recovery, for three weeks. AhR mRNA expression increased with p53 and BRaf mutations in various
human cell lines. AhR expression is lowest in Normal Human Melanocytes and highest in invasive melanoma A2058 cells. This suggests
that an increase in AhR expression corresponds to melanoma invasion and progression. AhR expression was more affected by p53 status
than BRaf status
Key Words Related to Project
melanoma, zebrafish, p53, BRaf, TCDD
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lori
Advisor Email
lawhite@aesop.rutgers.edu
White
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
76 Lipman Drive, Cook Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alanna Murday is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, double majoring in Microbiology and Biochemistry.
Email Address
amurday@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
John
C
Last Name
Palmer
Abstract Title
Low Reynold's Number Propulsion Methods Using Biomimicry
Abstract
The field of Aerodynamics and Aero-elasticity is a relatively young and bright frontier for study and research. Previously, these two fields
were focused on very large objects in high-speed flow fields. New focus has been recently placed on Micro and Nano-sized flying
machines, which requires new ways to handle unsteady and low-speed flow fields. One proposed propulsion method is to mimic the
insect and avian oscillatory motions to achieve lift. This means that we cannot use the previously developed computational tools and
mathematical assumptions to study how these biology-mimicking mechanisms react in normal flight conditions. Our project is to create
computational simulations that predict what will happen to our devices in these unsteady viscous flow fields. Our research is focused on
the complex relationships found within the flight dynamics of insects, and the solid-mechanics behind blunt bodies moving in low
Reynolds number flows. Using natural observation and computational tools, we hope to collect the data necessary to build a prototype
micro flying mechanism.
Key Words Related to Project
Aerodynamics, Biology, Flight, Insects
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mitsunori
Advisor Email
denda@rutgers.edu
Denda
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
98 Brett Road, Room B221, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Amanda Gaetano, Felipe Orozco, Mark Young
Presenter Biography
John Palmer is a senior at the School of Engineering majoring Mechanical Engineering, minoring in Economics and specializing in
Aerospace Systems. Amanda Gaetano is a junior at the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical Engineering and specializing in
Aerospace Systems. Felipe Orozco is a senior at the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Mark Young is a
junior at the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical Engineering.
Email Address
palmerj@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2011
Major
Mechanical Engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Kanan
Last Name
Parikh
Abstract Title
Instant But Not Necessarily Improved: An Evaluation of the Recent Advancements in Web-Based Search Engines
Abstract
Recently, there have been significant advances in Information Retrieval Systems. Search engines have reached a plateau in effectiveness
and efficiency, and are now utilizing creative techniques to enhance user experience. However, it is important to assess whether these
features raise the quality and speed of searches. Hence, we conducted an experiment to determine the effectiveness of features such as
Google Instant, which claim to improve efficiency and relevancy in query formulation through a user‘s perspective. Subjects were asked
to complete two tasks: (1) to search and collect information on a given topic, and (2) to search, collect, and utilize the information found
to compile a report, both within a given time. Participants were randomly selected for one of three conditions: (1) A search interface with
no suggestions, (2) an interface with suggestions, and (3) Google Instant, dynamic results and suggestions as users enter queries. In task
one, results showed that condition three participants found more, but not necessarily better quality information than those in other
conditions. For task two, the reports showed no significant differences in the value of the information found, regardless of the condition,
suggesting that although Google Instant allows users to access more information rapidly, it is not necessarily superior. Also, because
some users were familiar with the topics, they may have had more success in completing the tasks. Finally, we hypothesize that because
our study was conducted when Google Instant launched, future studies could yield different results as it becomes more integrated in
users‘ everyday searches.
Key Words Related to Project
Information Retrieval, Google Instant
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Chirag
Advisor Email
chirags@rutgers.edu
Shah
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
4 Huntington St, New Brunswick NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Abhijna Baddi
Presenter Biography
Kanan Parikh is a sophomore in the School of Communication and Information as well as the Rutgers Business School. She is double
majoring in Information Technology and Informatics as well as Accounting. Abhijna Baddi is a junior at the School of Communication
and Information majoring in Information Technology and Informatics with a double minor in Human Resource Management and
Psychology.
Email Address
kananp@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Communication a 2013
Major
Information Technology & Informatics, Accounti
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Aaron
J
Last Name
Rosenberg
Abstract Title
Realization of a Superconducting Nanocircuit with a Large Josephson Inductance
Abstract
Although quantum mechanics is generally observed in microscopic objects such as atoms and particles, superconductivity allows
scientists to observe quantum effects such as superposition, entanglement and quantized energy levels in macroscopic nanocircuits. The
principle building block for superconducting quantum circuits are Josephson tunnel junctions which consists of a thin insulting layer
sandwiched between two superconducting electrodes. A Josephson junction is a dissipationless non-linear device characterized by the
Josephson inductance, which can be altered by changing an external magnetic field. Unfortunately, Josephson circuits are limited by
charge noise in the environment caused by random electric fields affecting the electrodes. Theoretically, placing the Josephson circuits in
parallel with a large inductance will eliminate the problem of charge noise will retaining the nanocircuit's quantum properties. My
project, assisted by post-doctorate fellow Dr. Mathew Bell, and my faculty adviser Dr. Michael Gershenson, Rutgers University, is to
successfully fabricate and measure a novel nanocircuit composed of Josephson junctions with a large inductance.
Recently, we
fabricated the inductor and placed it in parallel with a capacitor forming an LC resonator. By measuring the resonance frequency, we are
able to find the inductance. In our best measurement, we see the expected resonance frequency for certain applied magnetic field values,
but no resonance frequency in other magnetic fields. The consensus is that the inductor is experiencing a great amount of external noise
in these magnetic field ranges. Currently, we are employing a new measurement technique (reflection measurements) that has the promise
of reducing the external noise.
Key Words Related to Project
Physics, Superconductivity, Quantum Computing
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Michael
Advisor Email
gersh@physics.rutgers.edu
Gershenson
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
136 Frelinghuysen Road (Serin W122)
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Aaron Rosenberg is a junior at the School of Arts and Science majoring in Physics and minoring in mathematics.
Email Address
aaronros@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Arts and Science
Class Year
2012
Major
Physics
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Agnieszka A
Last Name
Rucki
Abstract Title
The effects of Chromium (III) on the Development of Zebrafish and Metallothionein Expression
Abstract
Metallothioneins (MTs) belong to a family of highly conserved, low molecular weight, cystein-rich, metal binding proteins. Their major
role in an organism is heavy metal detoxification and protection against reactive oxygen species (ROS). MTs are ubiquitous, moreover
the isoforms MT-1 and MT-2 (subject of this study) are found in liver, pancreas, intestines and heart. Chromium (III) is an essential
element, needed for fat and protein utilization in a body. Furthermore, 2,300 metric tons of chromium (III) are released to the atmosphere
in the United States from various sources (leather tanning, wood preserving, etc.), each year. Chromium (III) does not remain in the
atmosphere, but is deposited into soil and water acting as a contaminant. The purpose of this study is to show that Chromium (III) is a
potential teratogen and that metallothionein could be used as a marker for aquatic contamination with chromium (III). Zebrafish
embryos were used for this study. Treated embryos were observed at 24, 48 and 72 hours-post-treatment and scored for mortality, lesions
or any morphological differences in comparison to control. RNA was isolated from embryos treated with chromium (III) at various doses
and metallothionein levels were quantified using Real Time-PCR. This study established that chromium (III) induces expression of
metallothionein. The overexpression is dose dependent and it could be potentially used as a marker for chromium (III) contamination.
Moreover, zebrafish embryos treated with chromium (III) developed numerous lesions, ranging from severe yolk sac edema to curved
tails, which suggests that chromium (III) is a potential teratogen.
Key Words Related to Project
Metallothionein, Zebrafish, Chromium (III), teratogen
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lori
Advisor Email
lawhite@aesop.rutgers.edu
White
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
76 Lipman Dr, Room 128, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Agnieszka Rucki is a senior at the School of Enviromental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biochemistry.
Email Address
arucki@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Biochemistry
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Asha
Last Name
Singanamalli
Abstract Title
Acupuncture Therapy Induces Changes in Local Fibroblast Gene Expression
Abstract
During acupuncture, a centuries old Chinese therapy involving fine needle manipulations, local fibroblasts within the connective tissue
around the site of needle insertion are subjected to mechanical forces. Much of the ongoing acupuncture research focuses on overall
effectiveness through clinical trials. In this project, changes in local gene expression are observed through an in-vitro connective tissue
model that consists of fibroblasts embedded within three dimensional collagen hydrogel. Some of these hydrogels are subjected to motor
needle rotation to mimic acupuncture therapy while others acting as negative control are left unstressed. Quantitative real time
polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) is performed to identify mechano-responsive genes involved in various local functions such as
angiogenesis, neurogenesis, wound healing and extracellular matrix remodeling. Preliminary experiments show an up-regulation of
angiogenesis-inducing vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C). However, changes in gene expression of other hypothesized
mechano-responsive genes are yet to be tested.
Key Words Related to Project
Biomechanics, Gene expression, Acupuncture
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
shreiber@rci.rutgers.edu
Shreiber
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
599 Taylor Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Asha Singanamalli is a senior at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering and minoring in Economics.
Email Address
asing@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
14
Class Year
2011
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Arya
S
Last Name
Tewatia
Abstract Title
Processing and Characterization of a PEEK Immiscible Polymer Blend Reinforced with Carbon Fiber (CF) and Carbon Nano-fiber (CNF)
Abstract
Production of the immiscible polymer blend (IMPB) takes place in two processing steps. CF and CNF are individually mixed with
Polymer A, in 20 weight % and 2.5 weight % compositions respectively, via melt-blending using high compounding single screw
extrusion. The resultant composite is then pelletized, dry-blended with PEEK, and melt-blended using an injection-molding machine.
Various mass ratios of (CF+Polymer A)-PEEK and (CNF+Polymer A)-PEEK were prepared. Tensile and impact properties of each
composite were characterized according to ASTM D638 and D256. Furthermore, thermal properties of each blend were determined
using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).
Key Words Related to Project
materials research
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jennifer
Advisor Email
jklynch@rci.rutgers.edu
Lynch
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Arya Tewatia is a sophomore at the School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical Engineering and Physics.
Email Address
atewatia@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Mechanical Engineering, Physics
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Zheqian
Last Name
Tong
Abstract Title
Polynomiography and Application in Financial Market
Abstract
Polynomiography is defined to the ―the art and science of visualization in approximation of the zeros of complex polynomials, via fractal
and non-fractal images created using the mathematical convergence properties in iteration function‖. We try to use the concept of
polynomiography to visualize the financial data. The strategy that we use is least squares, a standard approach to approximate solution of
over determined systems, which often applied in the financial analysis and modeling. By visualizing the financial data into artistic
pictures, people can use a new perspective to analyze financial market. We found that different polynomiography can represent different
types of data. This suggests that polynomiography is not only limited in the field of mathematics and science. This software can be used
in finance area.
Key Words Related to Project
Polynomiography , Finance, Economic,Mathematics
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Bahman
Advisor Email
kalantari@cs.rutgers.edu
Kalantari
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Hill Center 444, Busch Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Tong Zheqian is a sophomore at the Rutgers Business School majoring in Finance.
Email Address
tongzq@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Rutgers Business School
Class Year
2013
Major
Finance
Quantitative Sciences
First Name
Kristene A
Last Name
Welch
Abstract Title
The Role of Milk-Borne Factors on Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP) 9 Expression in the Neonatal Porcine Uterus
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) digest extracellular matrix proteins and MMP9 is expressed in the neonatal porcine uterus and is
associated with uterine growth and remodeling. Studies show that nursing influences expression of developmental markers of uterine
growth, but whether neonatal uterine MMP9 expression is regulated by nursing is unknown. Objectives here were to evaluate effects of
(a) age on neonatal porcine uterine MMP9 expression at birth (postnatal day [PND] 0) and PND 2; and (b) age at first nursing and
duration of nursing on neonatal porcine uterine MMP9 expression at PND 14. Results indicated that uterine MMP9 protein, undetectable
at birth, was induced in gilts nursed from birth, but remained undetectable in replacer-fed gilts at PND 2. Uterine MMP9 transcripts were
detectable at PND 0 and unaffected by age or nursing at PND 2. Gilts that nursed continuously for two weeks or for only the first 2 d
after birth before switching to replacer showed increased MMP9 gene and protein expression (p<0.05) at PND 14 compared to animals
fed replacer over the same periods. Together, results illustrate that nursing, specifically during the first 2 d of life is necessary for
inducing porcine uterine MMP9 expression in neonatal gilts and that returning to nursing after this critical 2 d period cannot restore
normal uterine MMP9 gene and protein expression. Data support the lactocrine hypothesis for maternal programming of neonatal uterine
development through milk-borne factors, with possible implications for adult uterine function.
Key Words Related to Project
uterus, porcine, matrix metalloproteinase 9, neonate, reproduction
Category
Quantitative Sciences
Room
Advisor
Carol
Advisor Email
bagnell@aesop.rutgers.edu
Bagnell
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Rm. 126 Foran Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kristene Welch is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Animal Sciences with minors in
Biochemistry and Biological Sciences.
Email Address
khriswel@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2011
Major
Animal Sciences
Social Sciences
First Name
Justine
L
Last Name
Abrams
Abstract Title
A Large Discount Chain Retailer‘s Impact on Community
Abstract
One possible influence on community change is the replacement of independently owned local stores, by large national retail chain
stores. This research aims to investigate whether and how a local community changes when such a store opens up in the neighborhood.
While numerous studies have explored the economic effects on the society at large, few have focused on the effects that a retailer like
Walmart poses to local neighborhood residents‘ sense of community. I will first study the theoretical foundations of ―community.‖ Then,
I conduct interviews with twenty-five Edison, NJ community members representing different interest groups. The open-ended interviews
will obtain subjects‘ definitions of community, if they have perceived any community change and if so, what they attribute it to. Each
subject will then reveal their overall general feelings toward the fairly new Walmart store located in their community. The results show
that some residents reported having different community experiences before Walmart opened and others showed indifference to the
matter. Local elected officials expressed either profound support or distinct dislike for the store. Some local store owners admitted to not
being able to compete with Walmart prices. This study reveals what it means to be a community member of a society that is accompanied
by the presence of Walmart, and may offer sociology a new perspective on what any large retailer could have to offer its target consumers
apart from low prices.
Key Words Related to Project
Community integration, Mom and Pop, big box store
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Deborah
Advisor Email
carrds@sociology.rutgers.edu
Carr
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
26 Nichol Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Justine Abrams is a Senior in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program, double majoring in Political Science and Sociology. She
is also working towards her certificate from the Eagleton Institute of Politics. As a student participating in the Sociology Honors
program, Justine is researching the effects a large retailer has on a local community by studying these effects in Edison, NJ.
Email Address
jlabrams@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Political Science
Social Sciences
First Name
Katharine E
Last Name
Anatale
Abstract Title
Effects of Level of Autonomy on Procrastination and Adjustment to College in First-Year University Students
Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between college students‘ autonomy from their parents, their ability to manage their time with
respect to their academic workload, and their perceived stress. Specifically, the study tested whether changes in autonomy as late
adolescents separated from their parents was related to their ability to independently manage their time with regard to academic work.
Autonomy in first-year students who were in the initial period of transition to college was compared to that of later-year students (second
to fifth-year) who were expected to be more autonomous and to have adjusted to college work. Participants completed an online survey,
which included measures of autonomy, procrastination, and stress. High levels of behavioral, emotional, value, and family loyalty
autonomy were significantly correlated with lower levels of procrastination and stress. However, no differences were found in autonomy
status between upper classmen and first-year students. These findings suggest that recent trends towards decreased parental autonomy in
university students may affect students‘ college performance.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Judith
Advisor Email
jhudson@rci.rutgers.edu
Hudson
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
SAS - Psychology 53 Avenue E, Rm 425 Piscataway, NJ 08854-8040
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Katharine Anatale is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences and is majoring in Psychology and History.
Email Address
kanatale@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
psychology, history
Social Sciences
First Name
Christian E
Last Name
Angeles
Abstract Title
Intimacy in Modernity: The Pure Relationship and Romantic Love
Abstract
The Victorian era marked the beginnings of censorship towards eroticism in intimacy. Sexual intimacy became a discrete affair due in
part to religious practice and new social norms structured around democracy. With the birth of Romanticism came the new idea of
passionate love for the individual: where one‘s partner met an individual‘s satisfaction both physically and emotionally. Using the work
of the social theorist‘s Anthony Giddens‘ Transformation of Intimacy (1992), this study addresses intimacy in society and how intimate
relationships have changed from early 1800 Victorian Era, and from the 1950‘s to present day. Beginning with the Victorian Era and
concluding his findings in the 1990s, Giddens examined the societal shift from an emphasis on passionate love (love from innate
passionate drive), romantic love (love driven by passion and finding one‘s ‗soul mate‘), and finally to modern confluent love (love based
upon equal rights and obligations, personal reflexivity, and communication). Giddens observes the rise of the pure relationship: a
relationship of equal sexual and emotional equality. I argue that Giddens‘ work deemphasizes the impact of social equity and gender
inequalities in society, and use comparisons in literature and popular culture magazines randomly sampled from 20 Reader‘s Digest and
self-help books from the 1950‘s-1965 and from 1990‘s until present. My research also analyzes five books on social theory comparing
what corresponding themes of the pure relationship, confluent love, and romantic love were similar, contradictory, or different from
Giddens‘ work.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Deborah
Advisor Email
carrds@rci.rutgers.edu
Carr
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
26 Nichol Ave
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Christian Angeles is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in sociology and psychology. Christian is a participant in the
Sociology Honors Program.
Email Address
chrisang@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Psychology and Sociology
Social Sciences
First Name
Sabrina L
Last Name
Angelini
Abstract Title
The Influence of Language on Visual Event Perception
Abstract
Two differing theories behind the usage of cognitive processes exist; one theory is that each works independently, and the other that
cognitive processes interact and affect one another to form one cohesive system. The focus of this study is on the interaction between
language and vision specifically. To test this, simple statements (e.g. ―A circle is chasing a square‖) were presented to subjects in
conjunction with a moving animation. The animation depicted one of two scenarios: all shapes moving randomly around the screen with
no interaction present, or two shapes interacting with one another, with the rest moving randomly. Sometimes the caption would
accurately describe the scene, and sometimes it would not. Subjects were asked to determine whether or not an interaction was present,
and to press a key when they decided, then answer a query posed afterward (e.g. ―Was a square following a circle?‖). The experiment
showed that reaction time (RT) for visual aspects of the task (determining presence of interaction) was not affected by the type of caption
shown, and that RT for linguistic aspects (answering the query) was not dependent on the animation. This suggests that, at least in the
early stages, linguistic and visual processing work independently of one another. Further experimentation is planned in which the
captions will be spoken sentences instead of text, allowing for the study of varying forms of presentation. Understanding the interaction
between different processes will aid in giving insight into the way in which the mind as a whole functions.
Key Words Related to Project
linguistic processing, visual processing, cognitive processing, interaction
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Karin
Advisor Email
karin@ruccs.rutgers.edu
Stromswold
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sabrina Angelini is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in Psychology and Music and minoring in
Anthropology. She has lived all her life in New Jersey, five minutes outside New York City. After growing up in a very diverse
neighborhood, Sabrina has come to love living at an equally diverse university. Sabrina's interests extend outside the classroom to
horseback riding, writing, reading, and doing 3D origami.
Email Address
sangelin@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Psychology, Music
Social Sciences
First Name
Nicole
J
Last Name
Auffant
Abstract Title
From Corsets to Jumpers: School Uniform Policies and the Construction of Gender
Abstract
My research examines the implementation and perceived consequences of uniform policies mandating skirts for school-age girls. Prior
research on uniforms is limited because it does not examine the use of school uniforms as a possible mechanism of control on a student‘s
gender identity. Since clothing is a way in which males and females communicate that identity, school uniforms may impact how young
children develop their gender identity. I analyze the extent to which uniforms help children construct or limit their own gender identities.
I investigate the consequences of mandated skirts on the identities of girls in an urban New Jersey Public School district. I use data from
my observations and interviews with parents, teachers, and students in grades 3, 5 and 8 to (1) document patterns in attitudes of students,
teachers and parents regarding school uniforms; (2) evaluate how gender roles are reinforced by the school, teachers, parents and
students; (3) the extent to which the race and class of students informs uniform policies; and (4) how schools that provide the option of
skirts differ from schools with required skirts. Although data are preliminary, findings suggest that attitudes regarding mandated skirts
vary by age, grade, and gender. School uniform policies requiring skirts create a gendered division among students that puts female
students at a disadvantage, in that they are limited in their physical ability while wearing a skirt. Additionally, they spend a significant
portion of the school day learning how to properly behave in a skirt.
Key Words Related to Project
uniforms, gender roles, public school, school policies
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Pat
Advisor Email
roos@rci.rutgers.edu
Roos
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
26 Nichol Avenue, Rm 115, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Nicole Auffant is a senior at Rutgers College double majoring in Sociology and Women's and Gender Studies and minoring in Social
Justice. She is a participant in the Sociology Honors Program.
Email Address
nauffant@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Rutgers College
Class Year
2011
Major
Sociology and Women's and Gender Studies
Social Sciences
First Name
Hannah M
Last Name
Baker
Abstract Title
Acquiring What it Means to Do Something Together
Abstract
Syrett & Musolino (2010) demonstrated that children and adults systematically differ in their acceptance rates for sentences such as Two
boys pushed a car together. While children accept it in a collective context where two boys push the same car and in a distributive context
where two boys push their own cars, adults disprefer it in the latter. This pattern could indicate that children overgenerate interpretations
and have yet to develop an adult-like semantics, or that adults reflect the influence of extragrammatical factors. Under approaches
encoding event variables in the semantics, together derives from appealing to which aspects of the events are shared (Brisson, 2003;
Lasersohn, 1995, 1998). Our work seeks to determine whether children permit a spatiotemporal contiguity interpretation, suppressed by
adults in favor of a true collective interpretation, or whether the response patterns reflects a more fundamental difference between the two
age groups. Undergraduates and four-year-olds participated in a judgment task (in which they viewed short events of agents performing
actions and were asked to accept or reject a target sentence), or a forced-choice preference task in which they chose the best match for the
target sentence. Context (collective/distributive) was varied within subjects, and distributive context was manipulated between subjects
by targeting space and time variables, or social interaction among agents. By working to increase adults‘ acceptance rates and decrease
the children‘s, we aim to identify the source of the difference between age groups and thus the contribution of semantics and pragmatics
in the interpretation of these sentences.
Key Words Related to Project
semantics, collective, distributive
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Julien
Advisor Email
julienm@rci.rutgers.edu
Musolino
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Room 137, Psychology Building, Busch Campus
Other Students Involved
Ariana Kalkstein
Presenter Biography
Hannah Baker is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in Cognitive Science and Spanish, and minoring in
Linguistics. This is Hannah's first year working in the Psycholinguistics lab as an Aresty research assistant, and she is very excited to
present her findings. Her future plans include graduate school where she can continue to study and research language and the human
mind. Ariana Kalkstein is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences and is majoring in Psychology and minoring in Linguistics.
She is interested in earning a PhD in Psychology and wants to be a child psychologist and an ESL teacher. She loves working with
children and has an affinity for languages. She is studying Spanish, Hebrew, and a little bit of Arabic.
Email Address
hbaker@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Cognitive Science, Spanish
Social Sciences
First Name
Gwendolyn
Last Name
Baxley
Abstract Title
Developing Safe and Civil Schools: A Systematic Social-Emotional Approach
Abstract
This study evaluates the success of Developing Safe and Civil Schools (DSACS), a Social-Emotional Learning Initiative designed to
nurture educational resources for improving Social Emotional conditions in schools and school districts across New Jersey. Social
Emotional Learning (SEL) is defined as skills that are important for optimizing students' ability to be caring proactive citizens, in
addition to being able to manage emotions and maintain positive relationships. As No Child Left Behind and other state and local
programs enforce the significance of competency in literacy and mathematics, SEL iniatives have been overshadowed and/or produced
unsustainable programs. This is despite the pivotal information that 8 of the 11 most influential categories on learning involve social
and emotional factors, including student-teacher social interactions, classroom climate, and peer group (Wang, Haertel, & Walberg,
1997). DSACS proposes that the most effective approach for SEL development, in alignment with academic gain, in students is through
a systematic school and district-wide approach to nurturing self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and
responsible decision making. Through a longitudal study comprised of cohorts of schools/school districts that implement systematic
DSACS SEL projects, this study analyzes the impact of DSACS compared to informal SEL iniatives in comparable controlled
schools/school districts. Despite this study still being a work in progress, early results from current data shows that systematic SEL
programs as more promising than non-systematic initiates.
Key Words Related to Project
SEL, Social Emotional Development, Developing Safe and Civil Schools, DSACS
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jazmin
Advisor Email
jreyes00@gmail.com
Reyes
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Tillett Hall, Room 402 53 Avenue E Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Gwendolyn Baxley is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and English. She explores socialemotional learning not only in the lab, but also through poetry in a student organization (Verbal Mayhem).
Email Address
gbaxley@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Psychology, English
Social Sciences
First Name
Natasha A
Last Name
Bennett
Abstract Title
Marginality and Notions of Human Rights in Urban Bolivia
Abstract
Bolivia‘s new pluralistic constitution emphasizes human rights by explicitly detailing the definition of various human rights and their
functions, indicating a shift in national priorities under the Morales administration. Predicated on universality, the language and
implementation of human rights implies that it speaks to all regardless of their social and material experiences, making it an emancipatory
tool that transcends all political and economic systems. In marginalized urban areas of Bolivia, this has not been the case. Stark divisions
based in notions of race, sex, and class, continue to characterize the causes of dire social conditions found on the outskirts of
Cochabamba, a major Bolivian city.
This paper explores the levels of human rights implementation from their theoretical implications
at the international level, to the Bolivian state and the Morales administration, to political and community practices on the ground in two
urban marginal barrios on the outskirts of Cochabamba. This approach in moving from the international to the local does not merely
demonstrate the contradictions between human rights theory and practice. It also seeks to illustrate the importance of social
consciousness and overcoming social and political fragmentation within the realm of civil society for establishing effective human rights
regimes. Moreover, it argues that these statist notions of human rights have been ineffective in confronting neoliberal structures due to
this fragmentation. In addition, it questions the applicability of "universal human rights" in an identity-based context in which sectors of
the population do not trust functions of the state.
Key Words Related to Project
Human Rights, Bolivia, Engaged Anthropology, Civil Society, Marginality
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202B
Advisor
Daniel
Advisor Email
dgoldstein@anthropology.rutgers.edu
Goldstein
Time
10 - 11 a.m.
Panel Name
Human Rights and Sterotypes
Advisor Address
106 Nichol Ave, Corwin Bldg B; New Brunswick 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Natasha Bennett is an SAS senior majoring in Latin American Studies and Political Science. She studied abroad in Bolivia where she has
done anthropological fieldwork and research on notions of human rights. She also has worked with the Mexican transnational community
in New Brunswick to understand transcultural experiences and the circumstances of migration. Currently, she is a student associate for
the Center for the Study of Genocide, Conflict Resolution, and Human Rights at Rutgers.
Email Address
natashab@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Latin American Studies; Political Science
Social Sciences
First Name
Rachel
R
Last Name
Bogan
Abstract Title
Breaking the Silence: A Review of "Coming Out" and LGBTIQQ Resources at Rutgers University
Abstract
Many students ―come out‖ as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, and questioning during college. This ―coming out‖
period may be defined differently for each student, and thus, institutions of higher learning have an opportunity to provide a range of
resources and support systems for their LGBTIQQ populations. In fact, an institution may or may not make these programs accessible
and visible to its student population. This project focuses on the accessibility and visibility of campus resources for Rutgers University
undergraduate students who have or who are ―coming out‖ at part of the LGBTIQQ community. Its goal is to understand how students
perceive the ―coming out‖ and LGBTIQQ resources the University offers and how students assess the impact of these resources on their
―coming out‖ and identity experiences. It asks if a disparity exists between what the University ‗thinks‘ it offers and the resources
students ‗say‘ it offers and in fact utilize. Moreover, it is interested in how students and administrators envision Rutgers can develop new
and strengthen current ―coming out‖ and LGBTIQQ campus resources. This project‘s mixed-methodological approach utilizes data from
student and administrator interviews, student surveys, and archival research. It asks each group how it perceives the University‘s support
of its LGBTIQQ population. Ultimately, this project will look for contradictions within the institutional system and address how to
remedy these challenges. In its analysis, the research will present these challenges as spaces where the University can further support the
―coming out ― process and the LGBTIQQ student population
Key Words Related to Project
sexality, gender, institutions of higher learning, resources, "coming out"
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202C
Advisor
Judith
Advisor Email
gerson@rci.rutgers.edu
Gerson
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Culture and Trends
Advisor Address
Ruth Dill Johnson Crockett Building, 162 Ryders Lane
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Rachel Bogan is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Women's and Gender Studies and minoring in Psychology. Her
interests include sexuality studies, social justice, human rights, and economic advocacy for low-income entrepreneurs. Rachel‘s always
game for an adventure, and some of her favorite include walking on fire, kayaking in the Puget Sound, and completing a high ropes
course.
Email Address
rbogan@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Women's and Gender Studies
Social Sciences
First Name
Lukasz B
Last Name
Bogdanowicz
Abstract Title
A Comparison of Brainstorming Techniques
Abstract
In his 1953 book ―Applied Imagination,‖ Osborn popularized an idea generating technique called brainstorming. He claimed that
brainstorming would increase the amount of ideas generated by a group. However research often has found the opposite of this to be true.
Since that time, newer better idea generating techniques have been developed and some techniques have electronic formats in which even
brainstorming becomes effective. Most research limits itself to comparing only a small portion of these techniques, and even fewer
evaluate the quality of ideas generated; No study gives a comprehensive analysis of all of these factors. This study used a 2x4 design in
which it compared 4 different brainstorming techniques (Nominal, Brainstorming, Brainwriting and Forced Gallery Writing) both
electronically and in written formats. Participants believed they were in a 4-person group but, only one participant was actually there
while the inputs of the 3 other members were simulated by the experimenter from the same list of predetermined ideas. Participants were
asked to generate ideas for 20 minutes on two topics; The dependent variables included the number of non-repetitive ideas generated by
both by the individual (individual contribution), and the quality of the ideas generated. Results indicated that electronic forms of idea
generation lead to higher levels of performance. Implications and applications of the results of this study are discussed.
Key Words Related to Project
Brainstorming Idea Brainwriting Creative
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202A
Advisor
John
Advisor Email
jack.aiello@gmail.com
Aiello
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
The Working Brain
Advisor Address
621 Tillett Hall, 53 Avenue E
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Lukasz Bogdanowicz is a Senior at the School of Arts and Sciences and is majoring in Psychology and Economics. He is a senior lab
member of Dr Aiello's Social Organizational Lab and a Human Resources Chair in RUPA.
Email Address
lukaszb@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology & Economics
Social Sciences
First Name
Kayla
M
Last Name
Booth
Abstract Title
Community Brokering Project
Abstract
Community Brokering Abstract
This study explores the strategies utilized by children of immigrants, who are the primary English
speakers in their families, to broker community resources for their parents. We use the term ―broker‖ to indicate not only translating
language, but also interpreting cultural, physical and mediated interactions. Our methodology consists of administering screening surveys
to adult residents in various New Brunswick public spaces and businesses. Once reviewed, eligible candidates are contacted via phone to
schedule hour- long interviews with both parents and children in their homes (conducted separately). By analyzing participants‘
responses, it is clear that children‘s brokering activities are integral to how family communication is negotiated in immigrant homes, and
that this communication shapes community standards, expectations, and identities. In addition to discovering how these families function,
examining which locations, interaction settings, and media formats require the most frequent brokering provides insight into how
neighborhoods / communities can better serve their residents‘ needs by providing the resources necessary to help parents and their child
brokers successfully integrate into their adopted environments.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Vikki
Advisor Email
vkatz@rutgers.edu
Katz
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Tania Guaman, Andres Pulido
Presenter Biography
Kayla Booth is a senior in the School of Arts Sciences and the School of Communication and Information, majoring in Communication
and English. Andres Pulido is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences with an intended major in Finance and minor in Spanish.
Tania Guaman is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Public Health.
Email Address
kaylab@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS, SCI
Class Year
2011
Major
Communication, English
Social Sciences
First Name
Dana
S
Last Name
Bowen
Abstract Title
Smoking Cessation for African- Americans Living with HIV: Barriers to Treatment & Appropriate Channels for Intervention Delivery
Abstract
The alarming rates of smoking-related diseases among HIV-positive smokers compared to that of HIV-negative smokers reflect the need
for more effective smoking cessation interventions. Particularly, African-American HIV-positive smokers in low- income cities have the
highest morbidity and mortality rates for cancer and other diseases compared to HIV- negative smokers and HIV-positive smokers of
other ethnicities. This is due to socioeconomic barriers within their communities and individual stress factors, as well as the
complications that come with different stages of the virus. A literature analysis of scientific articles was used to create a model that
summed up the core focus of the research project. We find that there is a common misconception among these individuals that they will
not live long enough to suffer the effects of long-term cigarette smoking. This presentation will address, in depth, the specific problems
facing African-American HIV-positive smokers that hinder proper adherence to the current forms smoking cessation therapy, as well as
the effective ways of spreading awareness about this crisis and implementing case-sensitive training for medical professionals.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jennifer
Advisor Email
jwarren@rutgers.edu
Warren
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
4 Huntington Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Alison C. Luke
Presenter Biography
Dana Bowen is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Public Health. Alison C. Luke is a sophomore at the School
of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology.
Email Address
danab13@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Public Health
Social Sciences
First Name
Eric
W
Last Name
Branning
Abstract Title
Best Practices in the Summer Component of the Rutgers Future Scholars Program
Abstract
The Rutgers Future Scholars Program (RFSP) is a pre-college program that introduces two hundred first-generation, low-income seventh
grade middle school students from school districts in our four Rutgers home communities of New Brunswick, Piscataway, Newark, and
Camden to the promise and opportunities of a college education (futurescholars.rutgers.edu). This pre-college program is designed to be
a model for other universities, and encourages schools to partner with their communities to increase realistic and positive opportunities
for both. Arguably, the summer provides the RFSP with the most intensive experience throughout the year, since it is the only time the
students come on campus, day after day, for several weeks at a time. My aim is to answer what programmatic elements are most effective
in facilitating the academic skills, interpersonal, and intrapersonal growth of the scholars through data analysis of the surveys filled out
by the instructors and scholars about their summer coursework. The assessment tools information utilized from the qualitative data will
be analyzed using sorting techniques; allowing categories to emerge in response (Creswell, 2007). Specifically, my research questions
will be as follows: what practices within the summer program "work best" as per the qualitative data collected on behalf of the RFSP, in
the form of the evaluations completed by the summer instructors and scholars of the RFSP. The literature base on pre-college programs
will gain new knowledge from my research, and benefit from my addition of what summer practices have been maximally effective for
RFSP New Brunswick and Piscataway, respectively.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Maurice
Advisor Email
RutgersMJE@aol.com
Elias
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Room 431, Tillet Hall, Livingston Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Eric W. Branning is a graduating senior at Rutgers College double majoring in Honors Psychology and Political Science. His
undergraduate thesis is on the summer component of the Rutgers Future Scholars Program, and is a mentor for the program. Eric has
taught a First-year Interest Group Seminar and completed a fieldwork with the Foster Care Counseling Center. He is a Brother of Chi Psi
Fraternity, Peer Mentor for Rising Leaders Institute, and a Scarlet Ambassador.
Email Address
ebrannd@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Rutgers College
Class Year
2011
Major
Honors Psychology & Political Science
Social Sciences
First Name
Beth
R
Last Name
Breslaw
Abstract Title
Book Projects in Political Science
Abstract
Over the course of our research project, we have explored the connection between culture and politics in the context of revolution. Our
research illuminates the impact of historically progressive thinkers on the formation of culture, and how that in turn effects political
change. Our observation of participation in revolutions helps us further understand the modern dynamics of social change. By studying
progressive traditions and revolutionary histories, and critically engaging cultural and political attitudes in modern society, critical
theories and progressive ideas can be cultivated and applied in dealing with contemporary issues such as political violence and bigotry.
For instance, reflecting on the impact of the Communist Manifesto and the works of influential Democratic Socialists like Rosa
Luxemburg on revolutionary movements today can help us develop an understanding of the challenges movements might face. By
researching current social and political movements and studying them through the lens of historic progressive movements, theories
develop and policy recommendations can be made.
Key Words Related to Project
revolution, social change, political change
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Stephen
Advisor Email
bronner@rci.rutgers.edu
Bronner
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Hickman Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Beth Breslaw is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History and Political Science, and minoring in Social Justice and
Women's and Gender Studies.
Email Address
bethbres@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
history, political science
Social Sciences
First Name
Sarah
A
Last Name
Brois
Abstract Title
Teacher Knowledge About ADHD and the Correlation Between Positive Helping Behaviors and Effectiveness of Managing Classroom
Situations with ADHD Students and its Potential Impact on ADHD Student Progress
Abstract
The study investigates the link between K-8 teachers‘ knowledge of ADHD (teachers who work in schools designed to assist special
needs students) and reported helping behaviors and attitudes regarding ADHD children in the classrooms of the teachers. The study also
examines the primary K-8 teachers‘ reported progress of student‘s with ADHD in their classroom as a possible implication of teachers
who are high in knowledge of ADHD students and who effectively demonstrate adequate helping behaviors and attitudes regarding
ADHD. The study involves approximately twenty K-8 primary school teachers (teachers that spend the majority of the school day with
the same child) and overall, fifty-three K-8 general teachers. The study consists of collecting data from four special needs schools located
near the central New Jersey region. Materials used to collect data consist of three pieces of paperwork. The first survey given to teachers
consists of four vignettes of ADD and ADHD school-aged students, the vignettes and the second survey, are modeled after Cormier and
Hepp‘s 2008 study of assessing teacher knowledge of ADHD. The second questionnaire consists of measuring teacher knowledge of
ADHD; and lastly, a student behavior questionnaire, pertaining to the teacher‘s rating of students who were diagnosed with ADHD and
the students‘ progress within the classroom. The experiment will analyze and evaluate the link between the variables and will allow for
future research centering on the topic which can potentially aid in helping schools develop more effective in-service training for teachers
managing student‘s with ADHD and like-disorders.
Key Words Related to Project
ADHD, elementary children, K-8 teachers
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Maurice
Advisor Email
RUTGERSMJE@aol.com
Elias
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Tillett Hall 431/402/404
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sarah Brois is currently a senior Honors Psychology student studying at Rutger's University in New Brunswick, New Jersey.
Email Address
sbrois@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Social Sciences
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Ariel
L
Last Name
Bucher
Abstract Title
Stories of War: International Media Coverage of the 2008/09 War in Gaza and Southern Israel
Abstract
According to the Columbia Journalism Review, no news subject generates more complaints about media objectivity than the Middle East
in general and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in particular. A high concentration of journalists in the region, media watchdog groups on
both sides of the conflict, and the complexity of issues surrounding this conflict yields accusations of bias in both print and broadcast
media. This project examines one recent eruption of hostilities - the war in Gaza and southern Israel in winter 2008/09 – to uncover
patterns of international media coverage. Research was conducted by coding news articles and broadcasts from five media outlets and
conducting interviews with governmental and nongovernmental representatives who interacted with the media extensively during this
asymmetrical war. Because media theory holds that wartime coverage will emphasize negativity, conflict, and personalized aspects of
events over more complex political realities, I hypothesized that despite unprecedented public relations efforts on the part of the Israeli
government and Hamas, coverage in all media outlets would focus on the disaster script and humanitarian crises and neglect analysis
beyond the immediacy of the conflict. Initial results confirmed that the humanitarian crisis on one or both sides was mentioned in 75% of
cases, and in 60% of cases there was no examination of the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. I also explored the use of new media tools
such as Twitter, blogs, and Youtube in this war; a trend that is likely to continue in future wartime coverage.
Key Words Related to Project
media, politics, war, Israeli-Palestinian conflict
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Beth
Advisor Email
leech@polisci.rutgers.edu
Leech
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
89 George Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ariel Bucher is a School of Arts and Sciences senior majoring in Political Science and Jewish Studies. She is an Eagleton Undergraduate
Associate and has participated in research since her sophomore year at Rutgers. She will attend NYU School of Law in the fall.
Email Address
abucher324@gmail.com
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Political Science, Jewish Studies
Social Sciences
First Name
Shoshannah E
Last Name
Buxbaum
Abstract Title
The Benefit of Distractions
Abstract
Social Facilitation predicts that individuals are facilitated on simple tasks and impaired on complex tasks in the presence of another
person. The distraction conflict theory proposes that when another individual is present, it causes a division of attention which impairs
complex task performance but paradoxically helps focusing on simple tasks. Likewise, when individuals are bored they are unable to
focus on the task at hand, and do not perform as well as when they are not bored. The excess cognitive capacity that is being unused
when an individual is bored makes it difficult for individuals to keep attention on the task at hand, whereas a distraction could relieve
boredom and increase focus on the task. Results indicate that a distraction in the room make a simple boring task seem less boring. It is
likely that there is a different threshold at which introverts and extroverts become bored. This is caused by the lower level of cortical
activity associated with extroverts. Thus, extroverts need more external stimulation to reach a state where they are not bored. Our
research addresses the possibility that distractions reduce boredom and increase productivity during boring task. Participants completed
two tasks; one that requires attention and one that does not. They were exposed to internal and external distractions to evaluate their
impact on boredom and task performance. It was hypothesized that the extroverts would perform better in the presence of external
distractions, such as music, while introverts would perform better with internal distractions.
Key Words Related to Project
social facilitation, boredom, distraction, music, internal thoughts
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
John
Advisor Email
jack.aiello@gmail.com
Aiello
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
621 Tillet Hall, 53 Avenue E Piscataway NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Alexander Puhalla
Presenter Biography
Shoshannah Buxbaum is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology. Some of
her interests include the implications of modern technology on human lives and development. After college she plans to pursue a PhD in
either Social or Clinical Psychology. Alexander Adam Puhalla is sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in
Psychology and Philosophy. When he finishes his bachelor‘s degree he plans on going to Graduate School for Cognitive Clinical
Psychology or Clinical Neuropsychology. He plans to double major in Philosophy because he believes that in order to be a good
clinician or researcher one must use logical grounds for their beliefs, and philosophy helps one establish that.
Email Address
sbuxbaum@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Katherine
Last Name
Calleo
Abstract Title
Analyzing Salivary Cortisol Levels in Response to Executive Function Tasks
Abstract
Executive function involves brain processes in the prefontal cortex that aid in self-monitoring, planning, the ability to focus attention and
memory, etc. (Velligan and Bow-Thomas, 1999). Studies have linked executive function to cortisol levels in the body and also to
prepulse inhibition. This study aims to further examine the relationship among executive function (through utilization of the Stroop test),
pre-pulse inhibition, and cortisol levels in the body. Data collection has not yet begun, so at this time there are no results to present.
Key Words Related to Project
psychology cortisol executive function PPI
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202B
Advisor
Alexander
Advisor Email
kusnecov@rci.rutgers.edu
Kusnecov
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
Social Effects on Behavior
Advisor Address
Psychology Building, Busch Campus, 152 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Katherine Calleo is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in English and Linguistics. She is
also a member of the SAS Honors Program and plans to apply to medical school this summer.
Email Address
kcalleo@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Amanda L
Last Name
Cannella
Abstract Title
The Local Politics of Immigration in New Jersey: A Case Study of Morristown
Abstract
This research project explores the dynamic controversy surrounding increasing rates of immigration to suburban areas within New
Jersey. Concerns about who is considered a legal immigrant versus an undocumented alien have begun heated debates in both local
municipalities and state level bureaucracies. With its focus on one Morris County town in particular over the past decade, trends are
revealing the transforming sense of security Morristown citizens now face within their own community. Oppositional opinions over
immigrants who do not pay taxes, job competition, minorities‘ tendency to be violent, a new cultural infusion and who has access to
public services are popular themes that have emerged in this area. By exploring public discourse throughout local newspapers, it became
evident a raucous clash exists between those who oppose immigration and those who support the changing demography of this colonial
town. Archival data found this conflict extends into the realm of legislative redevelopment proposals and policies attempting to restrict
and enforce current immigration laws. These administrative agendas need to be decoded in order to understand exactly which areas of
town are being remodeled, and whether or not racial identities within the project‘s specified zones are even discussed or kept hidden
through political language. I hope to conduct interviews with local residents and town officials to construct a qualitative synthesis of
how people are responding to Morristown‘s reformation procedure and how they think ethnic communities will be affected through its
final implementation.
Key Words Related to Project
Undocumented Immigration Policies and Public Discourse
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Robyn
Advisor Email
robyn.m.rodriguez@rutgers.edu
Rodriguez
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Davison Hall, 041
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Amanda Cannella is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Sociology and is still undecided about her minor.
Email Address
cinnamon@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
Sociology
Social Sciences
First Name
Ana
M
Last Name
Castillo
Abstract Title
Perceptions on and Experiences of Undocumented Youth in Higher Education
Abstract
What are the experiences of undocumented students with regards to their pursuit for higher education and how do they cope with the
social, legal, and financial ramifications associated with non-legal immigrant status in the United States? This project examines current
and historical immigration issues in the United States against the backdrop of true to life stories of immigrant youth from New Jersey.
Key Words Related to Project
immigration, higher education, DREAM Act
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mary
Advisor Email
rrodriguez@sociology.rutgers.edu
Curran
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
26 Nichol Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ana Castillo is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in English. Besides her studies and
research, she is actively engaged in student activities, including four years as a member of the Rutgers University Programming
Association (RUPA)--acting as President two of those years.
Email Address
anaca@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Rutgers University
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Ibraheem A
Last Name
Catovic
Abstract Title
Successful Financial Regulatory Systems
Abstract
Financial Regulation is an ever-developing field, constantly playing catch-up to the innovations in economics and financial engineering.
Looking at the history of financial regulation can give us hints on how best to formulate a successful financial regulatory system moving
forward. Setting up such a system can help reduce the effects of economic downturns, which is particularly relevant, considering the 2008
recession. I am looking at the role of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), and how that role changed with the initiation
of the Fed in 1913. I have developed a database of employees for the central Office of the OCC from the years 1869-1942. The raw data
was taken from the Annual Reports of the OCC, and now the data has been computerized. I have noticed some general trends in the
employment and salaries of the employees of the OCC, but additional statistical procedures need to be undertaken to assess specific
trends within the data, such as average tenure and salary of different job positions. This will give us a good idea of how the onset of the
Fed diminished the role of the OCC. And from this potentially see if the OCC can once again take on a major role in regulation, through
efficient distribution of regulatory responsibilities between the OCC and the Fed, as well as other regulatory agencies.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Eugene
Advisor Email
ewhite@econ.rutgers.edu
White
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ibraheem Catovic is a junior in the SAS Honors Program, majoring in Economics and Statistics - Mathematics.
Email Address
ibster31@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Econ, Math/Stat
Social Sciences
First Name
Stephanie C
Last Name
Cerce
Abstract Title
Evolutionary Value of Self-Deception? The Effects of Self-Deception on Ability to Deceive Others
Abstract
According to Trivers (2006), it is easier to deceive others when individuals are able to deceive themselves (self-deception). Therefore,
self-deception has an evolutionary value because of its role in facilitating deception of others. Yet, there has been little research done to
determine a direct link between one‘s ability to actively deceive others and one‘s self-deceptive tendencies. This experiment examined
the relationship between self-deception and other deception with the hypotheses that (1) high self-deceivers should be better at
misleading others than low self-deceivers and (2) high self-deceivers should be better at detecting deception in others than low selfdeceivers. Support for these hypotheses would be consistent with a functional (evolutionary) explanation of self-deception. In a 2x2x2
within subjects design, participants viewed 8 short videos of persons making true and false statements about themselves. Factors were
gender of stimulus person, level of self-deception of the stimulus person, and pattern of true/false statements. Participants were asked to
make judgments about the truthfulness of statements made by each speaker. In addition, participants completed a self-deception scale so
that their own tendencies to engage in self-deception could be linked to their abilities to detect deception in others. Hypothesis 1 predicts
that participants should be less accurate in detecting deception when they view videos of high self-deceivers. Hypothesis 2 predicts that
participants who are high in self-deception should be better able to detect deception in the videos than those low in self-deception. This
pattern of outcomes would provide support for the argument that there is a strong evolutionary value in self-deception due to its link with
deceptive abilities (Trivers. 2006).
Key Words Related to Project
self-deception, evolutionary psychology
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
dawilder@rci.rutgers.edu
Wilder
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
53 Avenue E, Piscataway NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Stephanie Cerce is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences. She is an SAS honors student and is double majoring in Psychology and
History. Her Aresty presentation is a Psychology Honors Thesis.
Email Address
sccerce@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology, History
Social Sciences
First Name
Karan
Last Name
Chadha
Abstract Title
Analysis of Bank Supervision
Abstract
The recession of 1907-1908 was particularly severe and made apparent the dangers to the economy of the absence of a lender of last
resort. In 1913 with the enactment of the Federal Reserve Act, the central banking system of the United States was created to maintain
price stability, maintain sustainable economic growth, and to maximize employment. One of the tools used by the Fed to achieve reach
these targets is the discount rate, which is the interest rate for "discount window lending", overnight loans that member banks borrow
directly from the Fed. In the early 20th century, in order to gain access to the discount window, banks had to become members of the
Federal Reserve System, subscribing to the stock of their regional Federal Reserve Bank. Thus, we are investigating whether the Federal
Reserve‘s use of the discount window during the 1920s, in the state of Georgia, enabled them to identify banks that would fail in the
future. For this purpose we are using the data from the Individual Statements of the Condition of National Banks that are available on the
Federal Reserve Archival System for Economic Research. Finally, we are using various measures including Capital to Asset Ratios to try
to predict the future closings. However, the current research ties into the ultimate goal, which is to determine how the birth of the Federal
Reserve altered bank supervision, using the information to determine how the regulatory system ought to be reformed.
Key Words Related to Project
The Federal Reserve
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Eugene
Advisor Email
EWHITE@econ.rutgers.edu
White
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Karan Chadha is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Economics and minoring in Entrepreneurship. His hobbies
include cooking using experimental recipes, swimming, and reading about current technology in automobiles.
Email Address
kchadha@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2012
Major
Economics
Social Sciences
First Name
Trisha
Last Name
Chakraborty
Abstract Title
Determination of an Association Between the Short Allele of 5-HTTLPR, Life Stressors, and Pre-Pulse Inhibition in Normal Human
Subjects
Abstract
The diathesis-stress model has been posited as a possible explanation for psychiatric conditions, such as depression and schizophrenia.
Schizophrenia, in particular, is strongly influenced by genetics. Moreover, certain psychophysiological phenomena, such as pre-pulse
inhibition (PPI) are impaired in schizophrenia, and may be due to altered serotonin (5-HT) function. Interestingly, there is little
information linking variable PPI in humans with genetic variations in the 5-HT system, information that may shed light on clinical
conditions where PPI is significantly altered. A malfunction in the 5-HT transporter gene, which recovers 5-HT from the synaptic cleft
may be partially responsible for psychiatric diseases involving affective alterations. The promoter region of the 5-HT transporter gene (5HTTLPR) has a short polymorphism of 14 tandem repeats, which has been shown to correlate with two major symptoms of
schizophrenia- anxiety and depression- in subjects who have experienced major life stressors. In the present study, variations in PPI and
the 5-5HTTLPR in normal human subjects are being compared with anxiety and depression scores. Subjects were measured for acoustic
startle responses in a PPI paradigm, and administered questionnaires that measure depression, anxiety and health behavior. Buccal cheek
swabs were taken to isolate DNA. It is hypothesized that less PPI will be associated with the short form of the 5-HTTLPR, poor mood,
and increased anxiety. If confirmed this will serve to aid further studies correlating schizophrenia to 5-HT transporter polymorphisms
and will allow greater understanding of how genetics affect schizophrenia and the interaction between nature and nurture that allows
disease onset.
Key Words Related to Project
5-HTTLPR, PPI, diathesis-stress model, schizophrenia
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202A
Advisor
Alexander
Advisor Email
kusnecov@rci.rutgers.edu
Kusnecov
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
The Working Brain
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Rd. Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Trisha Chakraborty is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology. She plans on
attending graduate school for Neuroscience after graduation. She is presenting the findings of her Senior Thesis.
Email Address
jinxycat@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Katherine
Last Name
Chang
Abstract Title
Quality of Life in New Jersey
Abstract
The study of the quality of life (QOL) is one that takes very subjective measures and is very difficult to research due to bias in the
perception of survey questions and responses. As such, this paper aims to produce a series of questions that the Eagleton-Poll will be able
to use in future QOL survey polls, thereby redefining how the Eagleton-Poll approaches the QOL topic. In looking into the sociological
and psychological background aspects of survey research, this paper delves deeper into the importance of word choice and order of
questions, as grammatical and logistical issues can affect a respondent‘s answer choice. This paper also looks further into the medicalscience field to see what types of questions other QOL researchers have previously asked. Additionally, the Eagleton-Poll archive, which
hosts the largest collection of New Jersey-specific survey questions on QOL, lays a strong foundation on the topic and provides a wide
range established survey questions for future use. This paper also follows a Long Island case study to compare with what the EagletonPoll has done in the past. It concludes with a series of suggested community-based and New Jersey-based questions, as well as other
recommendations for the Eagleton-Poll for use in future surveys, such as a standard set of survey questions to be used on a regular basis.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202C
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
redlawsk@rutgers.edu
Redlawsk
Time
10 - 11 a.m.
Panel Name
US Policy and Politics
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Katherine Chang is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program and Douglass Residential College, double majoring
in Economics and Chinese and minoring in Political Science, with a certificate in International Studies with a specialization in China.
Email Address
katchang@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Economics, Chinese
Social Sciences
First Name
Kathy
Y
Last Name
Chao
Abstract Title
The Effects of Individuating Information on Implicit and Explicit Racial Stereotypes
Abstract
This research examines implicit and explicit stereotypes about the intelligence of Blacks and Whites as groups, as well as the effects of
academic individuating information on implicit and explicit perceptions of the intelligence of one Black and one White college applicant.
Implicit and explicit stereotypes are evaluated with the Implicit Association Test (IAT) and a questionnaire, respectively. Participants are
given college applications with either limited individuating information (low information condition), abundant individuating information
(high information condition), or are not presented with any college applications (stereotype condition). The hypotheses are as follows:
(1) there will be a linear trend between the amount of stereotype bias that participants demonstrate and the amount of information that
they are given about a specific Black college applicant that is equivalent in nature to information about a specific White college applicant:
More information will result in less stereotype bias; and (2) individuating information will be more powerful than stereotypes in person
perception.
Key Words Related to Project
stereotypes, person perception, Implicit Association Test
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lee
Advisor Email
jussim@rci.rutgers.edu
Jussim
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
53 Avenue E, Rm 619
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kathy Chao is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in English.
Email Address
kathyychao@gmail.com
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Stephanie R
Last Name
Chen
Abstract Title
Component Analysis of Dialectical Behavior Therapy: Undergraduate Study
Abstract
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a cognitive-behavioral treatment originally developed for individuals with borderline personality
disorder (BPD). Efficacy of the treatment has led to variations of DBT being adapted for individuals with broader symptoms. The
comprehensive treatment includes weekly individual psychotherapy, weekly group skills training, phone conversations between therapist
and client for facilitation in generalizing skills, and weekly discussions for DBT therapists. DBT skills training is comprised of four parts:
mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance. While comprehensive DBT and DBT skills training
have been found to effective as a whole, it is difficult to determine which components are most related to positive outcome. In this study,
we will begin investigation in the components of skills training by comparing results of two emotion regulation groups, one where the
mindfulness component is included versus the other where it is excluded. We hypothesize that participants in both groups will improve;
however, the group with the mindfulness component will show more improvement than the group without. Participants were randomly
assigned to one of two groups. Participants in Group 1 are currently receiving standard DBT skills training with Mindfulness while
Group 2 participants are receiving Emotion Regulation skills training without Mindfulness. The skills materials used in groups are from
the 1993 Skills Manual for Treating Borderline Personality Disorder, published by Linehan. Although this study is currently underway
and there are no results yet, the results from the previous year‘s preliminary study suggest that an Emotion Regulation skill group
positively impacts group members. A result that we expect to see is a marked difference between groups based on the Mindfulness
component‘s impact. If individuals in Group 2 do outperform individuals in Group 1 at the conclusion of the study this would suggest the
Mindfulness component of DBT skills training to be more influential than others.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Shireen
Advisor Email
slrizvi@rci.rutgers.edu
Rizvi
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road. Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Stephanie Chen is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Human Resource Management.
Email Address
srchen@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Kristen L
Last Name
Clarke
Abstract Title
Race and Socioeconomic Status on the Educational Experience
Abstract
This research hopes to illuminate the educational discrepancies between different races and socioeconomic classes. While the
Achievement Gap is widely documented, this research will delve deeper into the discrepancies by separating data collected from New
Jersey K-12 schools into sections based on both race and free and reduced lunch. The hypotheses are that White and Asian students in
schools with the lowest free/reduced lunch rate will perform the best in both standardized testing as well as educational experiences,
while minority students in schools with the highest free/reduced lunch rate will perform the worst. I am also hypothesizing that minority
students will have the worst educational experiences in schools with a majority of White or Asian students and a low percent of students
receiving free or reduced lunch.
Key Words Related to Project
Education, Race, Socioeconomic, Social-Emotional Learning
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Maurice
Advisor Email
MJERU@aol.com
Elias
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Tillet Hall
Other Students Involved
AM presentation
Presenter Biography
Kristen Clarke is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences, majoring in Political Science and Economics. She is a University Senator
and also serves as the University Affairs Chair for the Rutgers University Student Assembly. Her research is a continuation of a project
started through Aresty last year.
Email Address
kclarkee@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2012
Major
Political Science, Economics
Social Sciences
First Name
Brett
R
Last Name
Cotler
Abstract Title
Two Studies in Psychological Reactance
Abstract
Psychological reactance motivates increased attractiveness of a behavioral freedom when that freedom is threatened. Previous research
induced reactance by limiting subjects‘ choices, but reducing number of options increases predictability. Reactance research has
confounded freedom of action and predictability of action. To separate change in freedom versus predictability as explanations of
reactance effects, a 2x2 experiment independently manipulated freedom of choice (high, low) and predictability of resulting behavior
(high, low). Subjects rated songs (publicly or privately) and selected one to keep (low freedom subjects had a limited choice). After the
manipulations of variables, subjects re-rated the songs. If freedom of action is critical to reactance, then subjects who have their freedom
restricted will rate the unavailable song as more attractive. If predictability is critical to reactance, then reactance effects should not occur
when initial ratings are private and hence not predictable. If both predictability and loss of freedom are critical to reactance, then there
should be an interaction such that reactance effects occur only when freedom is low and predictability is high. A follow up study
extended the first experiment by examining reactance in small groups (2-5 subjects). Research has shown that individuals with similar
opinions often polarize in groups. It was hypothesized that reactance will be stronger when individuals suffer a loss of freedom in a small
group context versus alone. Results from these studies contribute to a better understanding of why psychological reactance occurs and the
extent to which it generalizes from individual to social situations.
Key Words Related to Project
Reactance, motivational behavior
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
dawilder@rci.rutgers.edu
Wilder
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
601 Tillett Hall, Livingston Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Brett Cotler is graduating after his third year at Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences with a Honors degree in Psychology. Brett plans to
pursue doctoral studies in Clinical Psychology.
Email Address
bcotler@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Carolynn M
Last Name
Crute
Abstract Title
The Role of Previous Experience in Processing 3-D Visual Information
Abstract
Purpose: The objective of the experiment was to study the role that previous experience and stimulus features play in the strength of 3-D
illusions with bistable configurations, such as the hollow-mask and the reverse-perspective. Methods: To study how the hollow-face
illusion is affected by how closely the mask configuration resembles a human face, we selected a range of masks with varying degrees of
human likeness; we also added two reverse-perspective stimuli. We assessed the strength of the illusions for twenty observers by (1)
recording the critical distance at which the illusion was lost on approach and at which the illusion set in on retreat; (2) obtaining the
percentage of time that observers spent in the illusory percept while viewing stimuli from the average critical distance during two-minute
sessions. Results: Subjects spent more time in the illusion as the human likeness of the masks increased. In particular, two versions of
an upright human mask (one blank, one painted realistically) elicited the strongest illusion, while the upside-down blank human mask and
various forms of ―Martian‖ masks, as well as a concave egg-like configuration, elicited much weaker illusions. The illusion was stronger
for reverse-perspective stimuli than for human masks. Discussion: The results indicate that previous experience plays a significant role
in visual processing and they suggest that the 3-D configuration of human faces is somehow encoded in the visual brain. We plan to use
the stimuli that elicit the strongest illusions to compare visual processing between schizophrenia patients and controls.
Key Words Related to Project
Visual Perception, Illusions, Face Perception
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Thomas
Advisor Email
papathom@rci.rutgers.edu
Papathomas
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Busch Psychology Room A127
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Carolynn Crute is a sophmore at the School of Engineering majoring in Biomedical Engineering at Rutgers. She is also involved in the
National Society of Black Engineers and the LSAMP Scholars Program.
Email Address
ccrute@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Engineering
Class Year
2013
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Social Sciences
First Name
Matthew J
Last Name
D'Elia
Abstract Title
The American Presidency
Abstract
My work consists of turning a series of lectures on the history of the American presidency into multi-media presentations which are to be
presented to Rutgers students by Professor David Greenberg in a new history course, ―The American Presidency,‖ starting in the fall of
2012. The goal of this research is to help make Professor Greenberg‘s lecture both informative and engaging through the use of historical
images, political cartoons, maps, audio clips, and videos that are relevant to the development of the American Presidency. The methods
used to locate these materials include accessing a variety of online databases, scanning them for relevant information, and choosing
informative and interesting content to enhance the presentation. Specifically, I have consulted the Library of Congress‘s American
Memory website, the Rutgers American History in Video Website, and various indexes available on the Rutgers libraries website. I also
gleaned key points from the contents of the lecture to create power point presentations to accompany the research material. Some
difficulties arose when I could not find useful material in purely academic databases, and it became necessary to search Google images
and Youtube. As a result, it sometimes became necessary to take extra steps to ensure that only legitimate materials were taken from these
sites.
I have so far completed nine power point presentations that will accompany Professor Greenberg‘s lectures. I will have to
complete several more before the project is finished. Hopefully, these multi-media projects will make the class more engaging for
students and help them understand key concepts relating to the American presidency.
Key Words Related to Project
History, Presidency, Multi-media
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
davidgr@rutgers.edu
Greenberg
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Matthew D'Elia is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in History and Political Science.
Email Address
mattamo@pegasus.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2012
Major
History, Politcal Science
Social Sciences
First Name
Anthony G
Last Name
Delli-Paoli
Abstract Title
Relationship Among Body Image Concerns, Exercise Motivation, and Behavior
Abstract
Social physique anxiety (SPA) and other body image disorders have been associated with physical activity (PA) and are common among
college students. Given the associated health concerns, further investigation of these body image disorders on exercise behaviors is
warranted. Self-determination theory (SDT) is a promising framework for exploring these relationships. The purpose of this study was to
examine the relationships between SPA, BMI, body image, exercise motivation, and behaviors. Male and female university students (N =
273; 134 females, Mage = 20.8 yrs, SD = 1.4) and BMI (M = 23.3, SD = 3.1 kg/m^2.) completed the SPA Scale, Drive for Muscularity
Attitudes Questionnaire (DMAQ), Drive for Thinness subscale of the EDI (DFT), Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-2
(BREQ-2), and Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire (LTEQ). Significant relationships were found between SPA and DFT (r = .47) and
DMAQ (r = -.21). A negative relationship was found between SPA and the relative autonomy index (RAI), an index of motivation (r = .18) as well as exercise behavior, r = -.14. Results of separate multiple regression analyses revealed that SPA (beta = −.26), and DMAQ
(beta = .17) were significant predictors of exercise among males, accounting for approximately 8.9% of the variance. In line with
previous research, SPA was significantly related to DFT but negatively related to DMAQ, particularly among men. After controlling for
SPA and BMI, motivation was still significantly predictive of exercise behavior. Results suggest that SPA and self-perceptions may be
linked in the PA motivation and behavior relationship.
Key Words Related to Project
Body Image, Exercise, Motivation, Behavior
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202A
Advisor
Brandon
Advisor Email
alderman@rutgers.edu
Alderman
Time
10- 11 a.m.
Panel Name
Ethnicity and Identity
Advisor Address
70 Lipman Drive New Brunswick NJ
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Anthony Delli Paoli is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in Exercise Science and Sport Studies, and
Psychology. He has currently submitted his ESSS departmental honors thesis for a poster presentation at the NASPSPA National
Conference in June. Along with gaining honors recognition in the ESSS department, he is a student member of APA Div 47, ASSP,
NASPSPA and The National Honors Society for College Scholars Rutgers Chapter.
Email Address
adelli@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Science 2011
Major
Psychology & Exercise Science and Sport Studies
Social Sciences
First Name
Ashwini U
Last Name
Dhokte
Abstract Title
Intergender Effects on Alcohol Consumption in Mice
Abstract
There is an abundance of scientific literature centered on alcohol consumption and intermittent social stimulus of same-gendered mice.
The research world, however, lacks studies focusing on alcohol consumption in mice with continual exposure to mice of the opposite
gender. The current study investigates stress-induced alcohol consumption in mice with a proximal social stimulus of the same or
opposite gender cagemate through the assessment of blood-corticosterone levels and blood-alcohol levels. The prediction is that crossgender pairs will induce the most ethanol consumption. Four groups of mice are arranged into a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement. The first
group consists of a male drinker with a male cagemate. The second group features a female drinker with a female cagemate. The third
group consists of a male drinker with a female cagemate. The last group features a female drinker with a male cagemate. The drinker and
cagemate experience continual proximal exposure to each other through a Plexiglas divider. Each group is given an initial two weeks
acclimation period, in order for the mice to adjust to the laboratory conditions. During this adjustment period, mice are simultaneously
habituated to ethanol consumption (starting at 2% and increasing incrementally up to 10%). During the third week, however, each drinker
mouse receives a sipper of 10% (vol/vol) ethanol and a sipper of water, while the cagemates only receive a sipper of water. On the Friday
of the third week, all animals are sacrificed and tested for plasma corticosterone levels. The average consumption of alcohol for the
current study revealed that female drinkers paired with a female cagemate drinks the most ethanol. Likewise, male drinkers consume
more ethanol in the presence of a male cagemate than a female cagemate. It seems evident that the same-gender social stimulus induces
greater alcohol consumption and corticosterone levels.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Arthur
Advisor Email
tomie@rci.rutgers.edu
Tomie
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Jayram Pai, Sunpreet Singh, Sara Edwards, Devan Murphy
Presenter Biography
Ashwini Dhokte is a School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program sophomore majoring in Biological Sciences and minoring in
Economics and Chemistry.
Sunpreet Singh is a School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program sophomore majoring in Cell Biology &
Neuroscience and minoring in Anthropology and Psychology.
Jayram Pai is a School of Arts and Sciences junior majoring in Cell
Biology & Neuroscience and minoring in Psychology.
Sara Edwards is a School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program sophomore
majoring in Biological Sciences and Psychology.
Devan Murphy is a School of Environmental and Biological Sciences sophomore
majoring in Animal Science and minoring in Equine Science.
Email Address
adhokte@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2013
Major
Social Sciences
First Name
Elizabeth K
Last Name
Ferry
Abstract Title
Youth Attitudes in Iraq
Abstract
The future of democracy in Iraq, and democracy in the Middle East at large, lies in the hands of its massive youth population which has
only known unrest and conflict. The purpose of this research is to determine, through the lens of the youth, what factors will work against
against democracy in the Middle East and which will foster democracy. Findings from Iraq can be extrapolated to the region at large.
Thus this information is especially useful for the future of the entire Middle East. By analyzing newspapers, blogs written by Iraqi youth,
and by compiling data from focus-groups of the youth in Iraq, the views of this essential group are investigated and interpolated to
examine the state of democratic change in the country. The data has shown that issues relating to insufficient security, unreliable services
(such as electricity and water), a degraded infrastructure, and a widespread view of political incompetence and government corruption are
hurting Iraq's democratic future. These problems must be addressed as the youth of Iraq grow more disillusioned and reactive, as other
Middle Eastern youth have in late weeks. The future of democracy in Iraq is precarious because of the downtrodden state of not only
youth but also the population at large. The youth of Iraq are key to understanding its future, and their concerns must be addressed if there
is any hope for an end to sectarianism, unemployment, and the disastrously low moral of the people.
Key Words Related to Project
Youth, Iraq, Democracy
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Eric
Advisor Email
davis@polisci.rutgers.edu
Davis
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Hickman Hall, 89 George Street
Other Students Involved
Bethany Shenise
Presenter Biography
Bethany Shenise is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Political Science and minoring in African Area Studies.
She hopes to work with women in Africa and the Arab World to promote equal opportunity education and employment. Elizabeth Ferry
is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History and minoring in Middle Eastern Studies.
Email Address
eferry@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
History
Social Sciences
First Name
Jillian
J
Last Name
Fiore
Abstract Title
Al Qaeda: Masters of Evolution and Media Manipulation
Abstract
This Honors research project aims to understand the development and evolution of the terrorist organization al Qaeda and its figurehead,
Osama bin Laden. Prior to September 11, 2001, al Qaeda as an organization existed very differently than it does today. While U.S. and
Coalition troops have destroyed the structure of Al Qaeda since the invasion of Afghanistan, the extreme jihadist terrorist organization
has evolved and continues to hold power and influence throughout the world. This project strives to explain the influence of al Qaeda by
researching the audience-based strategies of the bin Laden and al Qaeda that include the manipulation of religious doctrine to generate
recruitment and support from those who many be struggling with some of the economic, social, and political issues that impact Muslims
throughout the world; it also explores al Qaeda‘s evolution into an easily accessed ideology that spreads via the internet and the media to
reach its audience.
Key Words Related to Project
Al Qaeda, Religion and Media Manipulation
Category
Social Sciences
Room
201B
Advisor
Lloyd
Advisor Email
lgardner79@gmail.com
Gardner
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Religion and Politics
Advisor Address
Van Dyck Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jillian Fiore is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program majoring in History and English. She is also a Leadership
Scholar of the Institute for Women's Leadership, and will be graduating in May.
Email Address
jjfiore@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
History, English
Social Sciences
First Name
Kaitlin
M
Last Name
Fischer
Abstract Title
Bottle, Tap, or Filling Station: How Colleges Should Meet the Drinking Water Needs of Their Students
Abstract
Across the country, students are standing up to bottled water companies by fighting for a ban on bottled water or more convenient access
to tap water on campus. Some colleges have implemented a total prohibition on bottled water sales, others unwilling or unable to order a
full ban are updating infrastructure to provide filtered or unfiltered tap water, and still others have found more innovative solutions, with
varying degrees of success. This paper seeks to explore universities‘ approaches to the reduction and potential elimination of bottled
water to determine which initiatives have been most successful and why. Specifically, we conducted a literature review based on the peerreviewed literature, university reports, newspaper coverage, and publicly available documents. We also contacted key players at five
schools of focus: Washington University in St. Louis, Pennsylvania State University, Muhlenberg College, University of Arkansas, and
University of Colorado at Boulder. Preliminary research shows that each school has a unique set of characteristics, yet those with
successful policies also have similarities. A student campaign, support of the administration, education, and gradual implementation are
critical to reduced plastic bottle consumption and utilization of fill-stations. For Rutgers University and institutions considering such a
process, examining the efforts at these five schools is important for creating a socially, politically, environmentally, and economically
sustainable solution to meeting the drinking water needs of their students.
Key Words Related to Project
bottled water, tap, colleges, universities
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202B
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Advisor
& Kevin Lyon Chess Caron
Advisor Email
CHESS_C@aesop.rutgers.edu
Panel Name
Economics of Food and Water
Advisor Address
55 Dudley Road, Cook Office Building, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kaitlin Fischer is a School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program student double-majoring in Political Science and Environmental Policy,
Institutions, and Behavior. She is actively involved on campus as President of Students for Environmental Awareness (S.E.A.) and is a
member of Phi Beta Kappa and Pi Sigma Alpha. Kaitlin has held numerous internships, including most recently at the Environmental
Protection Agency in Washington, D.C. Upon graduating in May 2011, Kaitlin hopes to travel and serve as an AmeriCorps volunteer.
Email Address
kfisch@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Environmental Policy and Political Science
Social Sciences
First Name
Alena
I
Last Name
Fleming
Abstract Title
Relational Dialectics and Mobile Communication: Management of Tensions Between Users and Their Smart Phones
Abstract
Dialectics theory proposes that people have a need to manage tensions to establish stability and balance within their relationships. Within
contemporary society, the influence of technology has transformed our relationships to an extent that our devices shape our identity.
Maintenance of tensions has gone beyond interpersonal relationships to extend into the sphere of our interactions with technology,
namely our mobile phones. We employed six focus groups with undergraduate-level smart phone users to examine the dialectical
tensions of connectedness vs. autonomy, openness vs. closedness predictability vs. novelty. Participants were separated by gender to
account for gender differences in the data. Analysis of focus group data expressed that smart phone users experience tensions in their
relationships with their smart phones, articulating that the device requires identity management with the open, unknown space of the
network. These results demonstrate the transition of relationships from intrinsically interpersonal to person-device management,
suggesting a new frontier for our relationships with technology in the 21st century.
Key Words Related to Project
Mobile Communication, Dialectics, Tensions, Identity
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jennifer
Advisor Email
jgibbs@rutgers.edu
Gibbs
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
CIL-205, 4 Huntington Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alena Fleming is a senior in both the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program and the School of Communication and Information.
She is a double major in Anthropology and Communication and minoring in Spanish. After graduating this May 2011, Alena will be
moving to Raleigh, North Carolina to begin her career in Sales with Cisco Systems.
Email Address
lenaflem@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Anthropology, Communication
Social Sciences
First Name
Giovanni
Last Name
Gabriele
Abstract Title
Units of Perception, Self Awareness and Time
Abstract
This research investigates cues that people employ to generate a sense of time. It is hypothesized that discrete events are often used as
markers of the passage of time. Experiment 1 examined the effects of parsing behavior into units of action on time perception.
Participants watched 4 short videos and were instructed to press a computer key every time they witnessed a meaningful act. Results
showed a negative correlation between number of units and estimates of time such that subjects who saw more actions underestimated the
length of the videos. In Experiment 2 subjects were instructed to divide the behavior in the videos into either as many or as few actions
as they could. Consistent with the results of the first experiment, it is hypothesized that subjects who divide the behavior into many small
units of action will underestimate the length of the videos whereas those who divide the behavior into few units of action will
overestimate the length of the videos. Research findings have implications for how people generate their subjective sense of time. Finer
parsing of the behavior (more units of action) focuses attention more narrowly on the task and reduces monitoring of time.
Key Words Related to Project
Units of Perception, Time, Self-Awareness
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
dawilder@rci.rutgers.edu
Wilder
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Room 603 Tillett Hall, 53 Avenue E # Piscataway, NJ 08854-8071
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Giovanni Gabriele is junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Cognitive Science and Sociology.
Email Address
ggabriel@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Erin
Last Name
Gager
Abstract Title
―Assessing College Students‘ Consumption and Knowledge of Whole Grains, Including Identification and USDA Recommendations‖
Abstract
The USDA guidelines suggest consuming three servings of whole grains per day, but studies show Americans eat only about one third of
that recommendation. Whole grains are encouraged as part of a healthful diet because their high fiber content may reduce the risk of heart
disease. Males and females of various race and ethnic backgrounds ranging from 18-23 years old were randomly surveyed (n=72) to see
if the same holds true for college-aged students eating in campus dining halls. In a five question survey, students self reported number of
whole grain servings consumed daily. They were also queried on their knowledge of USDA whole grain recommendations and
identification of whole grain food products. Only 3.0% of students were able to identify the correct USDA whole grain recommendation
and reported consuming three or more servings of whole grains per day. In addition, 77.2% of students reported consuming less than
what they estimated was the USDA recommendation. This means students are knowingly consuming fewer servings of whole grains than
recommended as part of a healthful diet .The majority of students (63.9%) incorrectly identified wheat pasta as whole grain and 72.2%
failed to identify popcorn as whole grain. This suggests a lack of education regarding whole grains or a misunderstanding of terms such
as ―whole wheat‖ versus ―wheat‖. Further research can be performed to determine why individuals consume less whole grains than they
believe are recommended. Nutrition education programs can be implemented in campus dining halls to increase whole grain
identification and consumption.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Peggy
Advisor Email
peggyp@rci.rutgers.edu
Policastro
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
(Davison Hall) 26 Nichol Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901
Other Students Involved
Dominica Zhu, Maryrose Agel
Presenter Biography
Erin Gager is a junior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in nutritional science-dietetics option. Under the
guidance of Peggy Policastro M.S. R.D., she works as a member of the RU Healthy Dining Team, a group dedicated to encouraging the
student population to make healthier food and lifestyle choices. Upon graduation, Erin has ambitions of completing a dietetic internship
and becoming a Registered Dietician. Marina Vineis is a junior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in
Nutritional Sciences- dietetics option. As a student nutritionist for the Rutgers Healthy Dining Team, she helps to educate the college
population about nutrition. Upon graduation, Marina plans on completing a dietetic internship and eventually becoming a registered
dietitian. Her focus of interest lies within the field of clinical nutrition and nutrition therapy. Maryrose Agel is a School of Arts and
Email Address
egager@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
Rutgers, The State Universit 2012
Major
Nutritional Sciences: Dietetics
Social Sciences
First Name
Jillian
E
Last Name
Gansert
Abstract Title
Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback and Its Role in Asthma Therapeutics
Abstract
The purpose of this NIH funded, 4-year clinical trial is to investigate the effects of two different modalities of biofeedback on the
symptoms of asthma. Previous research on one of the modalities, heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback, indicated that it may help
reduce medication intake as well as the primary symptoms of asthma, airway bronchioconstriction, mucus, and airway inflammation. The
current study adds physiological measures, including spirometry, forced oscillation, and a methacholine challenge test, in addition to the
biofeedback data. These objective assessments of airway pathology may further elucidate the mechanism behind HRV biofeedback and
evaluate pulmonary reactivity.
The primary hypothesis of the study is that HRV biofeedback may function as an asthma controller,
acting as an alternative to inhaled corticosteroids. Even if the findings indicated even a partial reduction of these medications it would be
a major advance in asthma care.
The study methods require 18 visits over a 14-week period. The primary exclusion criteria are that the
participants have asthma and are steroid naïve. After the participants are psychologically and medically screened they will participate in
four asthma education session and then randomized to one of two ten biofeedback sessions. Throughout the study psychological and
physiological measure will be administered.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Paul
Advisor Email
lehrer@umdnj.edu
Lehrer
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Roger Liu, Shivani Shah
Presenter Biography
Jillian Gansert is a junior at the Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy majoring in Public Health and minoring in Psychology
and Biology. Roger Liu is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring in
Psychology. Shivani Shah is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and minoring
in Economics.
Email Address
jgansert@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
Bloustein School of Plannin 2012
Major
Public Health
Social Sciences
First Name
Anthony J
Last Name
Grasso
Abstract Title
To Hell and Back: An End to the Mandatory Guidelines and Adjusting to the Post-Booker World of Sentencing
Abstract
In 2005, the structure of the criminal sentencing system for federal courts changed dramatically after the Supreme Court‘s decision in US
v. Booker, which rendered the once mandatory federal sentencing guidelines advisory. The mandatory guidelines were created in an
effort to reduce sentencing disparity, and after being made advisory, I hypothesized that sentencing disparity would arise in the federal
courts in various contexts. The primary goal of my study has been to examine the federal sentencing system in an effort to uncover
sentencing disparities between the federal circuits and to find general topics of uncertainty among circuits, judges, and other actors in the
criminal justice system in the post-Booker world of sentencing. In doing so, I hoped to uncover the effects and root causes of any
disparity. My methodology was four-pronged. I engaged in a literature review by looking at historical and current research on sentencing;
I examined Supreme and circuit court case law; I analyzed statistics provided by the US Sentencing Commission; and I interviewed
several judges and other actors in the criminal justice system. After finding disparity in a number of contexts, I reached several
conclusions, most importantly that most disparity results from disagreements among the circuits on how to implement the Supreme Court
decision US v. Kimbrough, decided two years after Booker, and how to utilize the ―substantive reasonableness‖ test when reviewing
appealed sentences. I also make some recommendations about how to fix the system and predictions about how these issues will be
addressed in ensuing years.
Key Words Related to Project
Federal Law, Criminal Justice
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202C
Advisor
Milton
Advisor Email
heumann@rci.rutgers.edu
Heumann
Time
10 - 11 a.m.
Panel Name
US Policy and Politics
Advisor Address
Hickman 405
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Anthony Grasso is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Political Science and History.
Email Address
agrasso@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Political Science and History
Social Sciences
First Name
Baria
Last Name
Hafeez
Abstract Title
Behavioral Comparison of Ephrin-A5 Wild-types and Knockouts
Abstract
Ephrin ligands and eph receptors make up the largest tyrosine-kinase ligand system. The eph receptor consists of an extracellular Nterminal which is responsible for binding its specific ephrin. The intercellular C-terminal is responsible for the kinase activity. Our lab
focused on Ephrin-A5 which is most well-known for its function in guiding the migration of axons and cells in the nervous system.
Ephrin-A5 knockout mice exhibit various differences from the wild-types controls such as disruption of circadian rhythms, altered levels
of serotonin and dopamine, and an increased likelihood for the development of cataracts. Thus, it is hypothesized that Ephrin-A5
knockouts will have disrupted behavior as compared to their wild-type counterparts. A series of behavioral tests were performed
beginning on postnatal day 9 and continued until postnatal day 60. These tests include: negative geotaxis, hanging wire grip strength, midair righting, motor activity, rotorod, active avoidance, and passive avoidance. Results indicate that knockout mice take significantly
longer to master tasks that focus on motor coordination and development than the wild-type mice. These tasks include wire-hang and
negative geotaxis. Therefore, the Ephrin-A5 knockout mice appear to have a developmental delay compared to the wild-type mice. Given
Ephrin-A5‘s important role in brain development, these deficits may be the result of altered neural structure. Future tests will determine if
these behavioral deficits continue into adulthood and if cognitive and social behaviors are also affected.
Key Words Related to Project
Ephrin-A5, Developmental Delay, Agression
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
George
Advisor Email
gcwagner@rci.rutgers.edu
Wagner
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road, Rm 229, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020
Other Students Involved
Megha Mandalaywala, Melissa Yu
Presenter Biography
Baria Hafeez is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience and Journalism and Media
Studies. Megha Mandalaywala is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Biological Sciences and Psychology. Melissa
Yu is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Exercise Science and minoring in Psychology.
Email Address
bhafeez@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Cell Biology and Neuroscience and Journalism
Social Sciences
First Name
Teresa
E
Last Name
Harvey
Abstract Title
Personal and Impersonal Moral Judgments
Abstract
How we distinguish the morally good from the morally bad is debated in both philosophy and psychology. Intention, consequences, and
control over the consequences must all be reasoned prior reaching a conclusion. These elements of morality tell a lot about the
mechanisms that allow making these judgments easy or arduous. Making a judgment about a stranger can be easy, yet when we act in the
first person, these judgments become privy and difficult. When we are acting in an incentivized scenarios, these judgments can change as
well. While reasoning about an impersonal moral scenario, the judgment is related to the valence of the consequence. However, while
reasoning about a personal moral scenario, the judgment is related to the valence of the intention. When the scenario involves a monetary
return, the judgments are related to the financial valence rather than either the consequences or the intention. We are using an
incentivized decision making design to vary intention and consequence among personal, personal incentivized, and impersonal moral
judgments to find differences in moral judgments. Results that show a variance among these conditions leads to a fuller understanding of
social cognition in the moral context.
Key Words Related to Project
cognition, morality, incentives, reasoning
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mary
Advisor Email
mrigdon@rci.rutgers.edu
Rigdon
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
106A New Jersey Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Teresa Harvey is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences. She is majoring is Psychology and Cognitive Science and minoring in
Philosophy.
Email Address
teresah@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Meredith
Last Name
Hayward
Abstract Title
The Impact of Cell Phones on Public Interest Polling
Abstract
The objective of this research is to examine what the continued trend towards reliance on cell phones poses to public opinion research,
which traditionally has used landline telephones to survey the population. Since the early 2000‘s, many households are opting to
eliminate their landline telephone and become completely reliant on their cell phone for telecommunication. Because of this trend, the
cell phone only population has doubled consistently every year and therefore an increasing amount of the population is excluded from a
random digit dialing sample of landline phones for surveying. This ―cell phone only‖ population has some distinct characteristics and
demographic information associated with it. These demographic and attitude differences between landline only and cell phone only as
well as cell phone mostly populations are examined. Moreover, the possible solutions and future problems associated with excluding a
cell phone sample from telephone surveys is studied in order to make sure the Rutgers-Eagleton Poll is consistent and up to date with its
weighting and survey methodology. Due to the upward trend of reliance on cell phones, it is important that the Rutgers-Eagleton poll add
a cell phone sample of at least 20% of the total sample to reflect the general statistic of the overall US cell phone only populations,
thereby reducing the effects of coverage bias for the cell phone only and cell phone mostly population. Furthermore, because the cell
phone only population is consistently growing, continued monitoring of this population is necessary in order to be up to date with the
current trend.
Key Words Related to Project
public opinion, surveying, cell phones
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
redlawsk@rutgers.edu
Redlawsk
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
603 Hickman Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Meredith Hayward is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Chinese and Political Science.
Email Address
mhayward@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Chinese and Political Science
Social Sciences
First Name
Eric
Last Name
Hsu
Abstract Title
Social Innovation: The Business of Doing Good
Abstract
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Time
Advisor
Matt
Advisor Email
Panel Name
Matsuda
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Email Address
ehsu@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
Major
Social Sciences
First Name
Eric
Last Name
Hsu
Abstract Title
Corporate Charitable Giving: Investigating the Role of Corporate Foundations
Abstract
Corporate charitable giving has seen a boom in recent times. From 1988 to 2008, corporate foundation giving in the United States have
nearly quadrupled in real terms, with corporate foundations contributing over $4 billion to charities in 2008. Previous studies give
indications as to what the determinants of corporate charitable giving may be, but generally focus on total corporate giving, that is, direct
giving plus corporate foundation giving. However, evidence exists that as a result of different incentives for foundation giving, direct
giving and foundation giving behave differently. In this paper I explore these differences in incentives between direct corporate giving
and corporate foundation giving. I then present a model for corporate foundation giving and test this model using time-series data for a
sample of publicly traded commercial banks with corporate giving programs.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Joseph
Advisor Email
jphughes@rci.rutgers.edu
Hughes
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
New Jersey Hall room 420, 75 Hamilton Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1248
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Eric Hsu, Class of 2013, is a Economics and Mathematics major in the School of Arts and Sciences.
Email Address
ehsu@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Economics & Mathematics
Social Sciences
First Name
Kevin
Last Name
Hsu
Abstract Title
Tent Cities in Haiti from a Social Network Perspective
Abstract
This develops an understanding of the post disaster situation in Haiti through observing the communication activities of tent cities.
Before the January 12th earthquake, eighty percent of Haiti‘s population, according to Global Security, are below the poverty line,
earning less than $2 USD per person per day. The earthquake has only exacerbated the already grim social economic situation in Haiti by
further crippling the country‘s fragile infrastructure.
The emergence of these tent cities after the earthquake created an evolving
interorganizational network between tent cities, donor organizations, and government authorities. Through analyzing newspaper accounts
about these networks, this project uses the community ecology framework to account for the birth, growth, maintenance and eventual
demise of these communication partnerships. In addition, the application of the evolutionary theory offers a perspective on the
interoganizational relationships‘ evolution and change over time through the variation-selection-retention (VSR) framework. Through
the use of newspaper articles gathered, I inferred the key players in these interorganizational relationships, namely the camp leaders that
emerged in tent cities, who took on the role of liaison with NGOs and other government officials. These emergent camp leaders
communicated with NGOs to secure the resources that the tent cities needed in order to survive.
Finally, this project pieces together
the emergent networks in Haiti and proposes further study to better understand the chaotic disaster situation so that NGOs and policy
makers can be aware of the problems that lies within these emergent interorganizational relationships.
Key Words Related to Project
Haiti, Tent Cities, Camp Leaders, NGOs
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Marya
Advisor Email
mdoerfel@rutgers.edu
Doerfel
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
School of Communication & Information Rutgers University New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kevin Hsu is a senior at the School of Communication and Information double majoring in Communication and English.
Email Address
kevff@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Communication & English
Social Sciences
First Name
Kassandra G
Last Name
Jordan
Abstract Title
The United States' Self-Induced Immigration Quandaries
Abstract
Mexican immigration and border control have been two of the forefront issues in the United States‘ political agenda for some time now.
It is true that since 1882, the United States has enacted numerous policies that restrict the flow of immigrants who seek to cross its
borders. However, the earliest policies aimed at limiting the amount of Mexicans able to enter and inhabit the country originated as late
as the second half of the twentieth century. Thus, there was not always a time when undocumented Mexican immigration was illegal, and
substantial evidence exists which indicates the United States‘ government has, through its policies, produced the illegal status of Mexican
migration itself. It is not very often that one finds his or herself acknowledging the illegal status of a European or Asian migrant, though
many Americans are determined to find and extradite undocumented Mexicans and associate the race in entirety as ―illegal.‖ What is
more, the publicity the Mexican immigration issue has garnered in the national media has generated an alarming sense of hostility
towards Mexicans, legal or not, in the United States. The current immigration policies and lack of border control exhibited by the United
States have yielded various legal quandaries and violations of human rights, while in the process essentially rendering civilian
humanitarian aid to migrants as illegal action. The polarization of the immigration issue in the political arena, as well as the
independence of states such as Arizona to initiate their own immigration laws, has also exploited the disorganization and weaknesses of
the United States‘ policy in regards to Mexican migration. Despite the efforts of various humanitarian groups to provide aid to
immigrants in the desert through medical care and water supply, civilian vigilantes in the border states have taken matters into their own
hands, unfortunately resulting in violence towards Mexicans. Furthermore, innate discrimination towards Mexicans and disregard of their
human rights have increased at an alarming rate in the United States, as a result of the government‘s inability to control attitudes and
legislation directed at these peoples. In this paper, through statistics, legal examples, and case studies, I intend to show how migrant
Key Words Related to Project
immigration, mexico, united states, legality, human rights
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Time
Advisor
Rocio
Advisor Email
Panel Name
Magana
Advisor Address
Ruth Adams Building, Douglass Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kassandra Jordan is a sophomore enrolled in the School of Arts and sciences, majoring in History and minoring in European Studies. She
plans to attend law school upon graduation in 2013.
Email Address
kassjord@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
History
Social Sciences
First Name
Zachary H
Last Name
Kanegis
Abstract Title
Cheating in a Repetitive Scenario
Abstract
The commonly held understanding of cheating behavior is governed by an economic model. The model is a function that weighs the
quality of the reward one seeks against the probability of getting caught and the punishment or cost of getting caught. The model clearly
has its value, but will break down at critical points. One such point is when the chances of getting caught are minimized, the reward is
small and punishment is absent. The model predicts that cheating should be rampant, but this is not the case. Research has found that
students are willing to cheat in the situation described above, but, students did not maximize their gain by cheating to the fullest possible
extent. They behaved as if they permitted a little cheating, but not so much as, perhaps, to challenge their belief that they were moral
individuals. Further results have been established with respect to concepts from social psychology such as social norms, observing a
blatant cheater who is a member of an ingroup or an outgroup, morality reminders, and others. With the intention of expanding upon
these results, we set out to test the effect of a repetitive opportunity on cheating behavior. We will assess the impact of multiple
opportunities to cheat in a single experimental session. If cheating is ―acceptable‖ on each test, then cheating should increase with the
number of opportunities. If it's ―acceptable‖ so long as it's not too great, then the total amount of cheating in a session should be constant.
Key Words Related to Project
Cheating, Stealing, Dissonance, Dishonest behavior
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
dawilder@rci.rutgers.edu
Wilder
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Room 625 Tillett Hall Livingston Campus
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Zachary Kanegis graduated January 2011, having attained majors in psychology and mathematics from Rutgers Livingston College.
Email Address
zkanegis@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Livingston College
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology, Mathematics
Social Sciences
First Name
Rachel
B
Last Name
Kenselaar
Abstract Title
Access to Healthy Foods in an Urban Community?
Abstract
Obesity is a growing public health concern in the United States. In 2009, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that over onethird of Americans are obese, and poor minorities are disproportionately obese or overweight. The rise in obesity is a result of several
factors, including poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and the built environment. There is increasing interest in the impact of the built
environment on a community‘s health because it is considered a factor behind the race and class disparities in diet-related health
outcomes. Research is focused on areas with poor access to nutritious, affordable foods, called ―food deserts.‖ Food deserts are most
prevalent in low-income areas; low-income and minority areas in particular have limited access to supermarkets. Greater access to
supermarkets is associated with higher fruit and vegetable intake, a healthier diet and lower obesity rates. This study uses a standardized
measure of food access, the Nutrition Environment Measure for Stores (NEMS-S) to measure food access in New Brunswick, NJ, a
small, racially diverse city with a large low-income population. NEM-S takes inventory of in-stock foods in each store. The survey
measures the availability, quality and price of 11 food indicators, including fruits, vegetables, bread and milk. The data collected of instock food is supplemented with interviews and observations. With only two chain supermarkets in New Brunswick, data is expected to
show that the area has limited access to affordable, healthy foods. Results from this study can be used to understand of food deserts in
similar cities.
Key Words Related to Project
Health, Obesity, Food Access
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202B
Advisor
Deborah
Advisor Email
carrds@sociology.rutgers.edu
Carr
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Economics of Food and Water
Advisor Address
112 Paterson St. New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Rachel Kenselaar is a senior majoring in Sociology and Planning in Public Policy.
Email Address
rkensela@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
School of Arts & Sciences
Class Year
2011
Major
Sociology, Planning & Public Policy
Social Sciences
First Name
Nadia
Last Name
Khan
Abstract Title
Factors of Succes for Women in Academia
Abstract
The issue of gender in the workforce becomes problematic when unconscious systematic decisions, result in discrimination in the
allocation of resources, recruitment, and equal opportunities for employees to progress and succeed in their field of work. This issue is
particularly relevant for female professors in academia that find it difficult to obtain full professorship due to various institutional
barriers. The purpose of this research is to recognize what conditions and experiences may have enabled women to obtain successful
professorship in the areas of science, engineering and mathematics, in comparison to those in social sciences and humanities at Rutgers
University. The qualitative data needed for the research was provided by interviews conducted by the Office of Women in Science
Engineering and Mathematics. Variables were chosen based on significant trends found in the interviews and charted based on frequency
and relevancy. The gathered information will be separated into categories of rank and subject area, and then further analyzed for major
trends and patterns. The data found will serve to further understand what institutional policies as well as personal circumstances can be
promoted or altered in order to encourage the recruitment and retention of more women professors in academia.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Patricia
Advisor Email
roos@rci.rutgers.edu
Roos
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
26 Nichol Avenue, Rm 115
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Nadia Khan is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences and an Institute for Women's Leadership Scholar. She is majoring in
Public Health and minoring in Women's Gender Studies. Her future plans include becoming a physician's assistant and becoming
involved in health policy making.
Email Address
nadkhan@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Public Health
Social Sciences
First Name
Harini
N
Last Name
Kidambi
Abstract Title
What RU Thinking?
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to identify the extent of the engagement between the Millennial Generation and their communities, as well
as the political realm. The Millennial Generation, which is comprised of Americans between the ages of 18 and 29, is a growing age
cohort that has the potential to make a great a impact on American democracy with its large size, predicted to outgrow the Baby
Boomer generation. This qualitative study seeks to answer several questions that previous studies have not definitively answered such
as whether the disconnect from traditional forms of politics is purely generational or a function of life cycle, if the disconnect reflects a
―rejection‖ of traditional politics by
the Millennials, if civic involvement has replaced political participation
in the minds of young
people, and if the disconnect is simply function of disinterest or a lack of information. Preliminary findings from the qualitative data
suggest that community service is seen as honorable largely regardless of intention, whereas the motivation is a great deal more
important in political engagement and running for office, determining its honorability. The data also suggests that the millennial
generation prefer volunteering rather than taking a political route due to disheartening factors associated with politics and with enough
support volunteering efforts can positively impact politics.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Elizabeth
Advisor Email
ematto@rci.rutgers.edu
Matto
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Evan Lehrer
Presenter Biography
Harini Kidambi is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences and the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy double
majoring in Political Science and Public Health with a minor in South Asian Studies. Evan Lehrer is a Sophmore at the School of Arts &
Sciences, majoring in Political Science and History with a minor in Economics.
Email Address
hkidambi@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
Arts and Sciences, Edward J 2012
Major
Political Science, Public Health
Social Sciences
First Name
Sindhu P
Last Name
Kilakkathi
Abstract Title
A Comparative Analysis of Public Healthcare Utilization between the United States and Mexico
Abstract
A comparative analysis of public healthcare utilization between the Unites States and Mexico was conducted in hopes to gain insight into
the strengths and weaknesses of healthcare policy in both countries. From this investigation, it was found that the Mexican system of
healthcare is more economical for its federal government and is able to provide better patient outcomes. Differences were examined in
patient access to healthcare, cost of treatments, and range of treatments available to both Mexican citizens in Mexico and Mexicanimmigrants in the United States. While this research is heavily based on literature reviews, interviews were conducted with physicians,
both in the United States and in Mexico to supplement the research findings. Physicians shared their perspectives on the current reforms
in their national system of healthcare and how these changes will affect the Mexican patient population in the future. The results of this
study provide insight into how to improve U.S. healthcare for Mexican immigrants.
Key Words Related to Project
Public Health, Mexico, Healthcare
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Peter
Advisor Email
guarnaccia@aesop.rutgers.edu
Guarnaccia
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Cook Office Building 55 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sindhu Kilakkathi is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program majoring in Biological Sciences. She is interested in
healthcare policy and plans to pursue a career in medicine. Sindhu is an active member of the Rutgers community, involved with
Panhellenic Council, the Office of Diversity and Academic Success in the Sciences, and Voorhees Choir.
Email Address
sindhu@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Biological Sciences
Social Sciences
First Name
Nelson M
Last Name
Knight
Abstract Title
Clinical Characteristics and Mental Health Service Use Among Transition-Aged Youth in Outpatient Psychiatric Care in the United States
Abstract
This study examines clinical characteristics and mental health service use of transition-age youth between the ages of 16 through 25 years
in outpatient psychiatric care from the 2007 nationally representative Client/Patient Sample Survey. Results showed that depression
diagnoses and co-morbid substance use problems increased with age, while disruptive behavior disorder diagnoses declined. Based on
the literature, hypotheses were (1) the number of psychiatric diagnoses would increase with age group, and (2) the number of services
used would have a curvilinear relationship with age group, with service use lower among 18-21 year olds. Contrary to expectations, there
were no differences in the number of psychiatric diagnoses by age, and number of services increased linearly. Multivariate analyses
showed no significant predictors (age group, diagnosis, number of diagnoses, or medical comorbidity) of psychotropic medication,
individual psychotherapy, or specialty services. Results raise questions about whether services may be driven more by organizational
routine than by clinical need. Implications of these findings on service delivery to young adults are discussed.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Kathleen
Advisor Email
kpottick@ifh.rutgers.edu
Pottick
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
536 George Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Nelson Knight is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology.
Email Address
nelsonk@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Arts & Sciences
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Raj
Last Name
Krishnan
Abstract Title
An Economic Analysis of Temptation and Success
Abstract
Carlo Ponzi, Bernie Madoff and Michael Eugene Kelly all became infamous for their elaborate schemes that embezzled millions from
their investors. They employed powerful methods of temptation combined with plain fabrications to successfully cheat investors. This
temptation is rarely if ever taken into account in economic models that study individual decision making.
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between temptation and individual economic decision making using a
computer based experiment which is designed to record the subjects‘ preferences. Using their preferences and data about the subjects,
such as GPA Range, Major and Gender, the author analyzed the relationship of temptation and decision making using econometric
regressions. The intricacies of this crucial relationship will shed light on how behavior is influenced by the external conditions. While
there have been numerous studies on how people use neutral sources such as advice or mathematical calculations to make decisions, there
has been little done on how peoples‘ actions can be deliberately and systematically changed. This will help behavioral economic models
take into account real influences that typically are not represented in the laboratory. The working hypothesis is that temptation can be
used to systematically change peoples‘ actions despite what standard economic theory may predict.
The preliminary results seem to support the author‘s working hypothesis. If this is indeed the case then the results could provide valuable
to behavioral models and could lead to further research on the extent of temptation.
Key Words Related to Project
Economic decision making under uncertainty
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202A
Advisor
Barry
Advisor Email
sopher@econ.rutgers.edu
Sopher
Time
2- 3 p.m.
Panel Name
Awareness and Intuition
Advisor Address
New Jersey Hall, Room 202
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Raj Krishnan is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Economics and minoring in Physics. He will be attending
Columbia Law School in the Fall.
Email Address
rajkr@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School or Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Economics
Social Sciences
First Name
Alexandra I
Last Name
Kuzyszyn
Abstract Title
The Open Mind
Abstract
First launched in May 1956, The Open Mind Television series gives audiences an opportunity to hear from the most artistic and
imaginative thinkers of the time. These thinkers are prominent in their respective fields, either in Education, Law or Politics, Public
Affairs, Health Politics, History or Entertainment. As part of the production of the series, thorough research is compiled to formulate
interview questions and topics which target the personal ideologies of the thinker being interviewed. In the past few months a variety of
respected thinkers were interviewed in the categories of Education, Historical Publication and Health Politics. Because of the major
differences of the topics of each person being interviewed, and because certain guests had been on the show previously, collaboration and
background research is distinct to each guest. Researching potential interviewers is an important aspect of the production of the
television series. Finding valid background information and compiling relevant information that fits the objective of that particular
program has proven to be an enlightening process. Furthermore, as technology has so incredibly evolved since the first taping of The
Open Mind in 1956, the show has expanded to reach not only television but the internet as well. Programs have become accessible not
only on public television but also on computers, maximizing viewer accessibility. Consequently, this technological advancement requires
the continual revision of the online series. Thus, the objective of this research and the results of this research lie in the success of this
ongoing project.
Key Words Related to Project
TV Series The Open Mind
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Richard
Advisor Email
RichardDHeffner@aol.com
Heffner
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alexandra Kuzyszyn is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Biology and minoring in History. She is an active
member of the Ukrainian Club and CAN Children's AIDS Network at Rutgers University.She plans on attending Graduate School to
become a Physician's Assistant.
Email Address
alexkuzy@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Biology
Social Sciences
First Name
Christina A
Last Name
Le
Abstract Title
The Association between Nativity and US Citizenship and the Health Status of Non-Elderly Adults
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine whether nativity and US citizenship status impacts health status, as measured by self-rated
general health status and self-reports of chronic conditions. New Jersey is one of the states that has seen the largest increase in
immigration. Therefore, it is important to focus on the health of the foreign-born population in order to determine health needs and to
provide specific plans to improve health. We used data from the 2009 New Jersey Family Health Survey to explore these relationships, as
well as to identify whether age, gender, race/ethnicity, family income, education, labor force status and insurance coverage status were
potential mediators. Results from multivariate analyses suggest that the higher percentage of foreign-born US citizens reporting fair/poor
health status was mediated by family income, education, and labor force status. However, foreign-born adults, regardless of citizenship
status, reported lower percentages of having been diagnosed with asthma or any other chronic condition, with the exception of diabetes.
When we looked at these results, we wondered whether this was affected by whether people saw a medical professional and had the
opportunity to be diagnosed. The fact that labor force status and having public coverage remain significant in the full models is
intriguing, since these things affect the ability to get to a doctor. Future research should focus on additional measures of health status,
such as metal health and dental coverage and on differences within racial/ethnic groups.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Dorothy
Advisor Email
dgaboda@ifh.rutgers.edu
Gaboda
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
112 Paterson Street 5th Floor New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Christina Le is a senior at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy majoring in public health and minoring in
cultural anthropology.
Email Address
School Name
Class Year
CHRSTNAL@EDEN.RUTGERS.E Bloustein School of Plannin 2011
Poster 10am-12pm
Major
public health
Social Sciences
First Name
Agnes
Last Name
Lenda
Abstract Title
The Social Impact of Facebook Applications
Abstract
Social networking has forever changed the face of communication. Applications, or communicative tools which allow users to play
games, chat, and share information, have become a staple of social networking sites such as Facebook. To investigate the role of
Facebook applications in communication, questioning participants about the frequency and extent of their application use should clarify
how social networking sites have shaped communication methods. This provided insight into how users use applications, particularly
gaming ones, and how these games influence relationships and social contact. This follow-up study consists of a survey of 70 questions
which seeks to uncover how applications have redefined social networking. Although users seem to engage with gaming applications,
they are doing so with less frequency. The current trend indicates that users are investing time primarily in Chat, viewing photos, and
sharing photos. Although Facebook gaming application use has reduced, a significant association was found between Facebook and
application use. Furthermore, data has indicated that the more users communicate with existing friends, recruited friends, and strangers
through applications, the longer it takes for an application to become boring. This suggests that social interaction encourages users to
engage with applications. Moreover, males tend to use gaming applications more so than females, perhaps due to their competitive
nature. Females use photo applications at a higher rate, which may be attributed to women‘s social nature. While chat and photograph
applications are currently popular with social networking users, this trend may very well change in the near future.
Key Words Related to Project
Facebook
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
John
Advisor Email
jack.aiello@gmail.com
Aiello
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
621 Tillett Hall, 53 Avenue E Piscataway, NJ 08854-8040
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Agnes Lenda is a senior at the School of Arts & Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Spanish.
Email Address
aglenda@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Social Sciences
First Name
Tara
Last Name
Levine
Abstract Title
Greek Life: The Key to Big-Time Sports
Abstract
The traditional ―football weekend‖ comes equipped with tailgates, barbeques, and the success or failure of the football team. A vibrant
Greek system drives the success or failure of the football team and it is believed that a fraternity presence helped the development of bigtime sports. A Greek system is made up of all the fraternities and sororities on campus in a given year that is recognized by the university.
When football conferences are compared in terms of the average number of fraternity chapters on campus, it becomes evident that some
conferences will have a larger Greek presence than others. I constructed a running total of the number of fraternity and sorority chapters
on campus in a given year. The calculated totals were compared to the conference the school belonged to in order to study a correlation
between the size of the Greek system and the conference the school belongs to. The research shows schools in larger conferences, such as
the Big Ten, tend to have a more vibrant Greek system. These schools have more chapters active in a given year and for longer periods of
time. The conferences with a more vibrant Greek system are more likely to be known for big-time sports relative to conferences with
small average number of chapters.
Key Words Related to Project
fraternity, football, college
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Randall
Advisor Email
drasmith@rci.rutgers.edu
Smith
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Tara Levie is a sophomore at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Nutritional Sciences with a focus in
Dietetics.
Email Address
tlevine@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SEbs
Class Year
2013
Major
Nutrition/Dietetics
Social Sciences
First Name
Jasmine
Last Name
Little
Abstract Title
Differences Between Blacks and Whites in the Treatment for Psychotic Symptoms
Abstract
Psychotic disorders are considered to be the most severe of all mental issues. They are characterized by hallucinations and delusions that
cause dysfunction and distress to daily living. Without proper treatment, psychotic symptoms have been known to influence dangerous
behaviors such as violence, murder, or suicide. It is clear that everyone who experiences psychotic symptoms should receive adequate
care. However, previous research has shown that Blacks are less likely to receive adequate treatment for mental issues than Whites.
Other research has shown this racial difference to be due to class and income divides. Using the Collaborative Psychiatric Epidemiology
Surveys 2001-2003, a nationally representative dataset of 20,013 respondents, we chose to investigate the disparity specifically between
Blacks and Whites experiencing hallucinations and delusions. Although disparities research on treatment for psychotic disorders is
minimal, we were able to base our hypothesis on previously found trends. We predicted that income or class would not impact the racial
difference in the odds of receiving treatment for psychotic symptoms. Treatment was measured in three variables: Seeing a professional,
receiving medication, and receiving psychotherapy. Regression models show that Blacks had lower odds of reporting the three indicators
of treatment even when controlling for educational attainment, gender, and income. These results suggest that there is some racial bias in
the treatment for psychotic symptoms that is not due to class or income divides. Further research should be done to investigate origins of
these biases in order to close racial gaps in mental treatment.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Sarah
Advisor Email
vinchura@lafayette.edu
Rosenfield
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jasmine is a senior at Lafayette College double majoring in Psychology and Africana Studies. She interned with Project L/EARN during
the summer of 2010 under the advising of Dr. Sarah Rosenfield at Rutgers University. Jasmine continued her project through the
academic year with Dr. Andrew Vinchur at Lafayette College. Jasmine is interested in racial disparities and treatment effectiveness in
mental health.
Email Address
littlej@lafayette.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Lafayette College
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology/Africana Studies
Social Sciences
First Name
Daniel
G
Last Name
Madura
Abstract Title
Playing the Money-Saving Game: Using Video Games to Influence Spending Behavior
Abstract
Video games have been shown to have a multitude of both positive and negative effects – ranging from increasing aggressive behavior
(Anderson & Bushman, 2001), to influencing risk-taking behavior in motorists (Fischer et. al, 2009), to facilitating in pro-social
behaviors (Gentile et. al, 2009). If games have an influence on these behaviors, could they have an influence on financial behavior, too?
We predict that the use of a financial video game can have an effect on immediate spending behavior. Through the use of in-lab game
playing time and post-gameplay surveys, we will assess any influence financial video game play has on a person‘s immediate spending
behavior. College student participants (N = 50) will play a video game with a financial system in one of two experimental conditions –
they will either receive a small budget with which to complete a series of objectives, or an excessively large budget. Upon finishing
gameplay, they will complete a survey of hypothetical scenarios that assess their likelihood to spend. Our prediction is that those who had
a small budget in-game will show a lower likelihood to spend, while those who had a large budget for purchases in-game will show a
higher likelihood to spend. Follow-up studies will examine real spending behavior. Our predicted results would suggest new methods of
financial education and suggest potential methods to decrease consumer debt.
Key Words Related to Project
Videogames, Saving, Budget, finances
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Gretchen
Advisor Email
gbc@rci.rutgers.edu
Chapman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
52 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Daniel Madura is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History and Psychology.
Email Address
dgmadura@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
History, Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Sumble
Last Name
Manzoor
Abstract Title
Translating and Framing National Narratives
Abstract
This study deals with the analysis of political narratives and the manner in which they are reproduced through means of translation, as
suggested by the narrative theory in Translation Studies. The focus lies primarily with the development of national narratives and their
domestic and cross-cultural constructions. The methodology for collecting data entailed creating a parallel corpus of original and
translated presidential speeches made by former President George W. Bush and current President Barrack Obama. An analysis of their
respective national narratives was made through an analysis of certain keywords. Additionally, an examination of the languages targeted
for translations was carried out. The analysis of the national narratives established in both the source and target texts suggests the
existence of certain inequities that may result from the different framings of the same narratives that occurs during the process of
translation.
Key Words Related to Project
Narrative Theory, Translation, National Narratives, Framing
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Miguel
Advisor Email
miguelji@rci.rutgers.edu
Jimenez-Crespo
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
105 George St New Brunswick, NJ, 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sumble Manzoor is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Economics and Spanish Translation/Interpretation.
Email Address
sumble@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Economics, Spanish Translation/Interpretation
Social Sciences
First Name
Mary
Last Name
Mathew
Abstract Title
Stigma of Major Mental Illness
Abstract
In past research, the stigma attached to mental illness has been shown to cause a detrimental effect on the everyday lives of the person
with mental illness, such as difficulty obtaining housing, child custody, and employment (Hinshaw. x). Additionally, people are
stigmatized according to race, gender, and physical illness. Because these stigmas are not always isolated conditions, research is needed
to determine the comorbid effects on one‘s mental health status. It was hypothesized that there is a lack of research regarding this topic;
therefore, a literature review was conducted using PsycINFO and Ovid search engines. A standardized search criterion was used to obtain
articles for the literature review. Once articles were obtained, the abstracts of the articles were coded based on four guidelines. The
criteria questioned whether an abstract (a) mentioned stigma, (b) was empirical, (c) used validated measures, and (d) discussed the stigma
of mental illness and at least one other condition. The results of the literature review should be a call to action for research regarding the
topic of comorbid stigmas. It demonstrates the need to pursue this avenue of research, ultimately to improve the lives of those suffer by
reducing these stigmas and their effect on patients‘ mental health
Key Words Related to Project
Stigma, Mental Illness, Comorbid Stigmas
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jamie
Advisor Email
walkup@rci.rutgers.edu
Walkup
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Institute for Health Building, Room 305
Other Students Involved
Hareem Arif, Kristina M. Langione
Presenter Biography
Mary Mathew is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences. She is majoring in History and Psychology and minoring in Biological
Sciences. Kristina M. Langione is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences. She is majoring in Psychology and minoring in Human
Resource Management. Hareem Arif is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences. She is majoring in Psychology and minoring in
Biological Sciences.
Email Address
mmathew7@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Psychology and History
Social Sciences
First Name
Aneesah A
Last Name
McClinton
Abstract Title
Black-White Differences and SES as as Mediator of Survivor Expectations for Cancer Follow-up Care
Abstract
Purpose: To explore the impact or race, socio-economic status (SES), and treatment facility in cancer survivor‘s expectations for
extended cancer follow-up. Methods: Depth interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of early stage (I or II) breast and
prostate cancer survivors from two comprehensive cancer centers (CC) and five community hospitals (CH) in NJ and PA. Interviews
lasted 30-90 minutes and were audio-taped and transcribed. Data were analyzed using an interactive approach. Two researchers
independently coded interviews, using consensus to resolve discrepancies. Results: Forty survivors (22 breast, 18 prostate) participated
in the study. Eleven participants were Black and 29 were White. Over half of participants received treatment at a CC (54%) compared to
46% from a CH. Eight participants (20%) reported current household income less than $40K; 38% reported $40K-79K; and 36%
reported $80K+. The majority reported at least a high school (54%) or college degree (41%). There was substantial overlap in the
follow-up expectations of high SES Black survivors and high and middle SES White survivors from CCs and CHs. However, different
narratives emerged about follow-up care expectations and care-seeking from lower SES CH-treated Blacks n=6 (household incomes less
than $40K) in contrast with higher SES CC-treated Whites n=7 (household incomes 80K+). Lower SES CH Blacks reported discussing
minimal elements of follow-up care with their doctors and also had difficulty describing what is included in cancer follow-up. High SES
CC Whites reported being more prepared and understood what follow-up care might entail.
Key Words Related to Project
cancer follow-up
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jane
Advisor Email
jmiller@ifh.rutgers.edu
Miller
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
112 Paterson Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1293
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Aneesah McClinton is a senior at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, majoring in Biological Sciences and minoring in
Public Health. Aneesah was first exposed to quantitative research as a Project L/EARN student intern in the summer of 2010. Since
then, she has delved into qualitative research as a student intern at the Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Aneesah plans to utilize her
experiences in research in her future career as a physician.
Email Address
aneesahm@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Environmental an 2011
Major
Biological Sciences
Social Sciences
First Name
Erin
Last Name
McGee
Abstract Title
Foster Care in 20th Century America
Abstract
While informal child-placing has always been evident in the history of America, by the early 20th century, a radical movement appeared
in foster care policy as private agencies developed a professional business centered around ―baby trading.‖ Throughout the 20th century,
this private trade was replaced by the growing role of the public sector into the modern family foster care system. However, how this
public system came into existence remains absent obsolete in the history of social work. This project will provide a historical analysis of
American foster care provision from the 1920s through the 1930s, which has laid the foundation for the contemporary foster care system
in the United States. Examining primary sources, including expert literature and case records, from the mid-20th century, the goals of key
players in building the infrastructure of the foster care system will be identified. The experience of a child in the care of New York‘s
Sheltering Arms Children‘s Service provides a historical narrative to analyze the larger social policy issues that effected low-income
families. Using the path-dependency theory, it can be assumed the model of foster care existing today is a malformation of what policy
experts created in the early 20th century. The gathered information for this research project is critical in determining what historical
implications with the current foster care provision system.
Key Words Related to Project
Foster Care, Foster Child
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Laura
Advisor Email
lacurran@rci.rutgers.edu
Curran
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Alexandra Tereshonkova
Presenter Biography
Erin McGee is a Junior in the School of Arts and Sciences, and is double majoring in Political Science and Public Policy with a minor in
Women and Gender Studies. Erin is interested in researching policies that affect women and children. She hopes to peruse a career
advocating on behalf of families in America. Alexandra Tereshonkova is a junior with a double major in Planning and Public Policy and
Women's and Gender Studies and a minor in Sociology. Alexandra is devoted to children's rights activism and hopes to pursue a career as
a policy analyst in the area of human rights. She is currently interning at Children's Rights, a foster care reform advocacy group and is a
Scholar at the Institute for Women's Leadership.
Email Address
emcgee@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Political Science, Public Policy
Social Sciences
First Name
Rachel
Last Name
Moseson
Abstract Title
Marriage Networks of the Upper Class Polish Elite from 1500-1800
Abstract
Intermarriage among Polish elite families from 1500-1800 tended to favor the magnate (i.e., most powerful) families. These magnate
families played a pivotal role in connecting other families in the marriage network. A data set of hundreds of families from the upper
class spans a time period that includes the amalgamation of Poland and Lithuania, a period of war and devastation, and in the end
multiple partitions of Poland. We expected marriage rates to increase around the time of the Polish-Lithuanian Union, with magnate
families remaining powerful or increasing their strength by integrating as many new families into their own as possible. We used the
aforementioned data set of genealogical and marriage data, translated into a code compatible with the program SoNIA (a Social Network
Image Animator), which presents large and small networks as ‗movies‘ depicting selected marriages. Egonetwork analysis of the
Potockis, the largest magnate family, illustrates how these top families tend to intermarry at higher rates than did families slightly lower
on the social ladder. The next step in our analysis is to compare these connections to our data on office-holding during the same time
period and involving the same families. So far, our findings suggest, unsurprisingly, that elite social groups tend to intermarry to
maintain status and power within their broader social networks.
Key Words Related to Project
Social networks, Elites, Poland
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Paul
Advisor Email
pmclean@sociology.rutgers.edu
McLean
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Davison Hall, Rm 049
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Rachel Moseson is a junior in the School of Arts & Sciences Honors Program majoring in Sociology and English.
Email Address
rmoseson@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
Arts and Sciences Honors P 2012
Major
Sociology, English
Social Sciences
First Name
Musunga A
Last Name
Mulenga
Abstract Title
Length of Stay and Readmission for Heart Failure Patients in New Jersey
Abstract
Readmission rates for heart failure (HF) continue to increase nationally. Increasing readmission rates parallel decreasing length of stay in
hospitals for patients with HF. Studies have been conducted to examine the association between length of stay and readmission, but
opposing findings make it difficult to draw string conclusions. The goal of this study was to determine how length of stay at the initial, or
index admission affects 30-day readmission. This study assessed whether the odds of readmission vary by insurance type. The study is
based on New Jersey patient‘s aged 40 and older, initially hospitalized with heart failure as identified by a congestive heart failure
principle discharge diagnosis between 2002 and 2009. Data for all patients were collected from New Jersey uniform Billing data for
Hospitals. Nested Multivariate Logistic Regression Models were used to assess how length of stay affects readmission and whether the
relationship is altered when controlling for several factors.
Key Words Related to Project
Readmission, LOS,CHF
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Derek
Advisor Email
ddelia@ifh.rutgers.edu
DeLia
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Center for State Health Policy,New Brunswick, NJ 8901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Musunga is a sophomore at the Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy and The School of Environmental and Biological
Science, majoring in Public Health and Biological Sciences. Her career goals include becoming a pediatrician. She also aims to be an
advisor of public health policy and implementation in Zambia. Through Project L/EARN, Musunga worked with Dr. Derek DeLia from
whom she learned some of the basics about the economics of hospitals and health centers.
Email Address
School Name
MUSUNGAM@EDEN.RUTGERS SEBS
Poster 12-2pm
Class Year
2013
Major
Biological Sciences and Public Health
Social Sciences
First Name
Danielle L
Last Name
Neidich
Abstract Title
PRACCIS- Teaching Through Inquiry Based Science
Abstract
Many science teachers today employ teacher-centered approaches to instruction that focus on transmitting scientific knowledge from
teachers and textbooks to students. In contrast, recent reforms in science education have called on more student-centered approaches to
instruction in which students learn science through inquiry. One such inquiry-based approach is the PRACCIS (Promoting Reasoning
and Conceptual Change in Science) project. The PRACCIS project team has created a new curriculum for middle school science teachers
to use that emphasizes reasoning and model-based inquiry. This allows students to create their own models of different concepts (such as
photosynthesis and cellular respiration) based on evidence. Students construct and revise models using evidence and defend their views
using the argumentative discourse of science. Four middle-school teachers implemented the PRACCIS curriculum for a full year. Most
class sessions in 10 classes taught by the four teachers were video recorded. Growth in reasoning was assessed in a test of scientific
reasoning ability at the end of the school year. Two teachers‘ students learned more than two other teachers‘ students. Our analyses aim
to pinpoint why some teachers‘ students learned more than those of other teachers and which strategies specifically promote reasoning.
Several teacher strategies appear to be particularly important For example, open-ended questions during a discussion facilitate reasoning
a lot more than simple yes or no questions do. Effective teachers inspire the students in different ways, such as relating the subject matter
to something the children have personal experience with. Other strategies that the more successful teachers used include encouraging
students to reflect on and apply the criterion for a good scientific model and emphasizing using evidence to support the models. Learning
is much more than just memorizing information and blindly repeating it back; learning should involve understanding and inquiry. Inquirybased methods of teaching have the potential of changing the way future generations look at the world and think about problems
presented to them.
Key Words Related to Project
"Teacher Moves" Evidence, Models
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Clark
Advisor Email
clark.chinn@gse.rutgers.edu
Chinn
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
10 Seminary Place Room 319 New Brunswick NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Surbhi Ugra
Presenter Biography
Danielle Neidich is a sophomore at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences majoring in Biology. Surbhi Ugra is a
sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and Labor Studies.
Email Address
dneidich@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SEBS
Class Year
2013
Major
Biology
Social Sciences
First Name
Arthur
G
Last Name
Nevins
Abstract Title
The Divided Democratic Party and the Vietnam War
Abstract
It is well known that the Vietnam War divided the Democratic Party. Not as well documented are the lengths that the two factions within
the party went to see their foreign policy ideologies succeed. While current study often focuses on the results the war had on the party it
is vital to examine the effect the division of the party had upon war policy. This study utilizes the Congressional Record and papers of
various Democratic leaders that shine light upon the extent of the divide between Democrats and its effect on the legislative process. The
vicious floor battles over Vietnam War policy that occurred between ideologically different members of the Party undermined
Congressional ability to assert control over foreign policy. Records illustrate how the conservative elements of Democratic leadership
constrained the efforts of doves within the party. A key Democratic Senator‘s papers also indicate the nefarious Nixon-like path
conservative Democrats took to undermine their party colleagues. This study reveals how party infighting and conservative control of the
party severely limited doves‘ ability to affect foreign policy under both Presidents Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon. Moreover the
research proves the difficulties Congress can have in reflecting the greater will of the people during wartime, and how deeply the
uniformity of the American two party system can complicate the legislative process especially in regards to foreign affairs.
Key Words Related to Project
Congress Vietnam Party Politics
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
dsfoglesong@gmail.com
Foglesong
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
215 Van Dyke Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Arthur Nevins is a senior honors history student at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in History and Political Science.
Email Address
arthurn@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Political Science
Class Year
2011
Major
History
Social Sciences
First Name
Victoria M
Last Name
Nielsen
Abstract Title
"Green" Dynamics and Decisions within Households
Abstract
Families are an important influence on children‘s social/emotional development, and their morals, values and consciousness.
Environmentally conscious attitudes and behaviors also may be shaped by family contexts. In this qualitative study, I investigate the
influence of family dynamics on undergraduates‘ decisions about environmentally conscious behaviors and attitudes. Through 20 openended interviews with Rutgers University students (Environmental Policy, Institutions and Behaviors majors and Students For
Environmental Awareness club members), I reveal the mechanisms and the influential tactics of decision-making involving
environmental issues. I evaluate the extent to students‘ decisions to engage in ―green‖ practices are affected by: cost/convenience issues,
environmental responsibility and societal/familial pressures My research suggests that there are limiting factors, such as cost and
convenience issues, that impede environmental decisions. Depending on extent to which the family is open to change and the difficulty of
the behavior, an individual can use compromising and can adjust the context of the behavior to promote ―green‖ decisions within the
household. This research uncovers the ways family influence a child‘s environmental consciousness, and the extent to which they engage
in behaviors that are consistent with pro-environmental attitudes. This has policy implications in that it shows the importance of targeting
families in environmental policy and strengthening school environmental programs that can translate back to the family. Households have
been pointed to as units of environmental change; therefore understanding the family dynamics will better highlight how to facilitate that
change.
Key Words Related to Project
environmental behavior and attitudes, family, decision-making, qualitative research
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Carr
Advisor Email
carrds@sociology.rutgers.edu
Deborah
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
112 Paterson Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Victoria Nielsen is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences double majoring in Sociology and Environmental Policy, Institutions and
Behaviors. She is apart of the Sociology Honors Program. Victoria has interned for the Sierra Club and is currently volunteering with
their Beyond Coal Campaign.
Email Address
vnielsen@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Social Sciences
First Name
Kirsten L
Last Name
Nisula
Abstract Title
Disentangling the Link Between Scope and Prosody By Manipulating Information Structure
Abstract
Sentences like (1) have two possible interpretations: (a) none of the men went, or (b) not all (possibly some) of the men went. 1. All the
men didn‘t go.
(a): falling contour; (b): rising contour
The ambiguity arises from the interaction of the universal quantifier and
negation. Jackendoff (1972) claimed that the prosody with which (1) is uttered disambiguates, depending on whether negation is
associated with presupposition or assertion in the semantics. Others (e.g., Baltazani, 2002, 2003; Kadmon & Roberts, 1986; Ward &
Hirschberg, 1985) have instead argued that the relationship between prosody and the scope of negation is less direct and pragmaticallydriven. While relevant empirical evidence exists in Greek and Italian, little exists in English, and no work has systematically investigated
discourse context as a factor. This two-part production-perception study seeks to fill this gap. Production participants are recorded
reading brief passages designed to manipulate information structure, each followed by a target or baseline (e.g., pronominal reference,
focus-sensitive only) sentence and a comprehension question checking their interpretation. Target ambiguous sentences are excised,
annotated, and analyzed to determine whether a correlation between prosodic pattern and interpretation exists. Perception participants
hear the excised target sentences and respond to the same questions, relying only on surface cues to arrive at the correct forminterpretation pairing. By gaining a more fine-grained understanding of the role of prosody and information structure in the interpretation
of these target sentences, this research sheds light on the more general nature of the relationship between sound and meaning.
Key Words Related to Project
Scope, Prosody, Disambiguation, Information Structure
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Julien
Advisor Email
julienm@rci.rutgers.edu
Musolino
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road, Rm 137 Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020
Other Students Involved
Stephen Klimashousky, Georgia Simon
Presenter Biography
Stephen Klimashousky is a junior at Rutgers' School of Arts and Sciences pursuing a degree in linguistics. Kirsten Nisula is a junior at
Rutgers' School of Arts and Sciences pursuing a double major in Psychology and Music. Georgia Simon is currently pursuing a
Linguistics degree at Rutgers with a minor in Music and plans on graduating in May.
Email Address
knisula@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Psychology, Music
Social Sciences
First Name
Alexia
A
Last Name
Nwaziri
Abstract Title
Motivation to Smoke to Relieve Negative Affect Predicts Attention Bias in Smokers
Abstract
Cigarette smoking remains a difficult behavior to stop, despite its lethality and social and economic costs. Past research indicates that
smokers who show a bias in attention toward smoking-related words (versus neutral words) at the outset of an attempt to quit smoking
have a harder time quitting. The current study explored individual differences in personality and tobacco dependence that may be related
to variability in attention bias toward smoking-related cues. Subjects were 81 adult, heavy daily smokers not actively trying to quit
smoking. Attention bias was assessed using a modified Stroop paradigm. The degree to which color-naming reaction times were longer
for smoking-related words than for neutral words was used as the measure of attention bias. Regression models indicated that motivation
to smoke for negative reinforcement was significantly predictive of greater attention bias to smoking words. No other tobacco
dependence or personality dimension tested was significantly related to attention bias. Thus, smokers who reported greater affective
relief from smoking exhibited greater bias toward smoking-related cues than did those who reported that smoking had less impact on
negative affect. This suggests that smokers with heightened negative reinforcement motivation may be particularly prone to monitoring
the environment for smoking cues, or to have trouble disengaging from such cues. Self-reported affect relief from smoking may therefore
serve as a useful marker of risk to attend preferentially to smoking-related cues, which may, in turn, be linked to greater difficulty quitting
smoking.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Danielle
Advisor Email
demccart@rci.rutgers.edu
McCarthy
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road, Rm 213
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Alexia Nwaziri is senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology. She worked on the
current project as a research intern for Project L/EARN. She is currently researching in the Smoking Cessation Lab and working on her
senior honors thesis under the guidance of Dr. Danielle McCarthy. Alexia plans to attend graduate school for a Ph.D. in clinical
psychology.
Email Address
School Name
ANWAZIRI@EDEN.RUTGERS.E School of Arts & Sciences
Poster 10am-12pm
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Daniel
J
Last Name
O'Sullivan
Abstract Title
The Effects of Moderate-Tempo Music on Self-Selected Pace and Performance in Recreational Swimmers
Abstract
While numerous studies have examined the effects of music on performance in terrestrial sports such as running and cycling, none to date
have been conducted in swimming. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of moderate-tempo music on self-selected
swimming pace and performance in college-aged recreational swimmers. Twenty healthy male and females performed two conditions of
six 200-meter forward crawl bouts at self-selected speeds. The experimental condition consisted of listening to Top 40 pop songs at
moderate-tempo (125-135 BPM) using a waterproof music player. During the control condition, subjects wore the music player but no
music was played. The treatment conditions were counterbalanced and performed one week apart at the same time of day. Performance,
heart rate, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and affective responses were recorded at the end of each 200-m bout. Based on the existing
literature on music effects on terrestrial sport performance, it is expected that although RPE will not differ between conditions, a
significant improvement in performance will be found in the experimental condition. Examining the effects of music in swimming will
allow for an increased understanding of how distinct mechanisms such as arousal and dissociation can affect exercise performance in
both terrestrial and water-based sports.
Key Words Related to Project
Music, Exercise, Swimming
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Brandon
Advisor Email
alderman@rutgers.edu
Alderman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Loree Building, 70 Lipman Drive, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Daniel O'Sullivan is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences and is a double major in Exercise Science and Biology.
Email Address
danoman@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Exercise Science and Biology
Social Sciences
First Name
Cortney M
Last Name
Panzarino
Abstract Title
Attribution Theory or "Beautiful is Good" Stereotype: Evalaution of Competing Theroetical Perspectives of Weight Bias
Abstract
Key Words Related to Project
Obesity, Stigma, Weight Bias
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Richard
Advisor Email
contrada@rci.rutgers.edu
Contrada
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
52 Avenue E
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Email Address
cortneyp@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Nicole
C
Last Name
Parelli
Abstract Title
Frank Zappa for President: The Political Life of a Mother of Invention
Abstract
In many lights, Frank Zappa is remembered as a habitual line stepper; a person constantly at odds with main stream society. With his
untamed mane and trademark facial hair he was criticized by many for his distasteful and barefaced lyrics. Even beyond his appearance
and lyrics, his musical arrangements crossed boundaries other artists never even imagined existed. He drew from doo-wop, classical, and
jazz inspirations to create his own genre in rock and roll history. He continually marched to his own tune, and never missing a beat, he
was not afraid to express his opinions. Even adverse to his own generation, Zappa steered a different course from the one navigated by
most of his countercultural contemporaries of the 1960s. He never involved himself in drugs and alcohol and declared himself apolitical
in the period of protest songs and social revolution. Just as he differentiated himself in his musical career and personal life, Zappa‘s
political undertaking was not like that of his contemporaries. My thesis looks past his outlandish appearance and controversial lyrics, in
order to gain a greater understanding of his political aspirations and motivations. Zappa was a highly intelligent man even outside the
musical realm. Both because of his intellectual skills and his lack of regard for social rebuke, Zappa‘s comprehension and critique of
American politics and society is worth exploring. His unique case provides insight that cannot be obtained from many other sources and
should not be overlooked because of his reputation as an eccentric musician.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
201B
Advisor
Virginia
Advisor Email
virginiayans@earthlink.net
Yans
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Religion and Politics
Advisor Address
111 Van Dyck Hall 16 Seminary Place New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Nicole Parelli is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in History and minoring in Political Science.
Email Address
nparelli@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2011
Major
History
Social Sciences
First Name
Ariana
M
Last Name
Passariello
Abstract Title
Girls Leading Outward
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to determine the possible influence of the GLO program on leadership among girls in the seventh and
eighth grades. It examines whether there is a correlation between the data at the beginning of the program examining leadership, and
measures the demonstrated leadership of the girls during the planned leadership project that ends the program. Before the GLO program
began, the teachers of the students completed the Devereux Student Strengths Assessment – mini (DESSA-mini), assessing emotional
strength and resilience, the Social Skills Rating System (SSRS-T), assessing social skills and problem behaviors, Teachers Prediction of
Peer Nominations (TTPN) assessing where a students peers would rank them. Students completed the Piers- Harris Children‘s Self
Concept Scale, the Sense of Mastery Subscale from the Resiliency Scale for Children and Adolescents, the Intent Attribution and
Feelings Distress Measure, the Short Grit Scale, and the Relational Aggression Beliefs Scale. A subscale will be developed for the
teacher measures as well as the student measures designed to measure leadership behavior. The students, teachers, and GLO facilitators
will rate the subjects on their leadership behaviors during the course of the leadership process. We expect to see some correlation, with
higher scores in leadership behavior after being in the GLO program.
Key Words Related to Project
GLO, leadership, empowerment, community service
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Maurice
Advisor Email
MJERU@aol.com
Elias
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Liivingston Campus
Other Students Involved
Galadriel Sevener, Donna Lewis
Presenter Biography
Galadriel Sevener is a junior at Rutgers University studying Psychology and Music. Donna Lewis is a sophomore at Rutgers University
studying Psychology. Ariana Passariello is a sophomore at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences of Rutgers University
and Douglass Residential College for Women studying Public Health and Psychology.
Email Address
arianap@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School Of Environmental an 2013
Major
Public Health
Social Sciences
First Name
Vinit
P
Last Name
Patel
Abstract Title
Can the Home Advantage Be Bought In NCAA Division I Football Programs?
Abstract
Currently there seems to be evidence that suggests many NCAA Division I Football programs have a home advantage. This home
advantage can be seen by the size of the athletic budget for each school and how their overall season record is. However, many of the
―big time‖ programs that have a tradition of having loyal fans and winning numerous championships brings to question if the home
advantage can be attained by spending more on the program. Data collected on spending for each program for each year was compared
with the season record between the years of 1997 and 2010, in order to see if there was a positive correlation between the two. Could
spending more money lead to a better winning record? By looking at the ratio of win-loss records and comparing that to the money spent,
a slight home advantage is seen. The implications of the study so far conclude that there is a slight home advantage for teams who spend
more on their programs.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Randall
Advisor Email
drasmith@rutgers.edu
Smith
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Davison Hall, 26 Nichol Avenue New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Vinit Patel is a School of Arts and Sciences and a School of Communication and Information junior double majoring in Exercise Science
and Sport Studies – Sports Management Option and Communication. He is also minoring in Human Resource Management. His goal is
to pursue an MBA degree after graduation. He is one of the Founding Fathers of the recolonization of the New Jersey Gamma Chapter of
Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity at Rutgers University.
Email Address
vinpatel@scarletmail.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Exercise Science and Sport Studies; Communicati
Social Sciences
First Name
Rachael M
Last Name
Paulbeck
Abstract Title
Effects of In Group Associations on Self Evaluations of Attractiveness.
Abstract
Previous research has shown that individuals evaluate themselves less positively (self ratings of attractiveness and self esteem) when in
the presence of an attractive person of their gender. s has a negative impact on an individual‘s own evaluation of their attractiveness and
self esteem. The present experiment is a follow up to one conducted last year. That study demonstrated that increasing the salience of a
common identity (positive attributed of being a woman) with the attractive comparison other reduced the negative impact that comparison
with the attractive other had on a person‘s self evaluations. The present study builds upon that research by testing whether the specific
affect generated by the salience of a common identity or the mere salience of the common identity impacts self-evaluations. In this study
the participants were assigned to one of four conditions, each with different affective cues that were gender relevant: positive, negative,
or neutral. In addition, a control group will make self evaluations in the presence of an attractive other without experiencing the salient
ingroup identity manipulation.. If the mere salience of a common identity is sufficient to lessen the detrimental impact of comparison
with an attractive other, then self evaluations in each of the affective cue conditions should not suffer when comparisons are made with
an attractive other because the common gender identity is salient across all those conditions. However, if the affect induced by the cues
contribute to the effect of enhanced ingroup identity, then subjects in the positive mood condition will benefit most from the salience of
the common identity while those in the negative and neutral conditions will experience a decrease in self evaluations in the presence of
the attractive other.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
David
Advisor Email
dawilder@rci.rutgers.edu
Wilder
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
-Tillet Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Rachael Paulbeck is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Political Science.
Email Address
rpaulb@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Sarah
M
Last Name
Pendergraph
Abstract Title
The Effects of Birth Experiences on Bonding
Abstract
Bonding is defined as the emotional tie from parent to infant. According to some researchers, a weak or non-existent bond can lead to
child abuse, neglect, failure to thrive, and abandonment. With the rising rates of interventions in the birthing process including the
surgical intervention of Cesearean section, there is concern that the bonding process could be compromised. This study will investigate
the relationship between a woman‘s birth experience and her bonded with her infant. In order to answer this question, an online survey
was created to ask women open and closed-ended questions about their pregnancies, births and the immediate postpartum period. A
recruitment letter was sent out to different online parenting groups. The collection of data is ongoing. We predict that women
experiencing many interventions or surgical birth, which usually lead to long separations postpartum, will report feeling less bonded than
those with few or no separations. This information could be used to help hospitals change their procedures about mother-infant
separation. A secure bond would help reduce Post-Partum Depression and breastfeeding problems and help set the stage for a secure
attachment and confident mothers.
Key Words Related to Project
Birth, bonding, mothering, parental investment
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lee
Advisor Email
lcronk@anthropology.rutgers.edu
Cronk
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Biological Sciences Building, Rm. 309
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sarah Pendergraph is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Anthropology and minoring in Sociology. Ms.
Pendergraph has been a breastfeeding counselor and birth doula for more than five years and became interested in the topic of bonding
while working with mothers in these capacities. This research is a way to provide some answers to questions she has had.
Email Address
spenderg@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Anthropology
Social Sciences
First Name
Janina
L
Last Name
Pescinski
Abstract Title
Women's Political Participation in Niger: Rethinking Limiting Dichotomies
Abstract
This study examines the political involvement of women in Niger, taking a historical approach to highlight the influences of French
colonialism and Islam. French colonialism promoted gender roles that confined women to the domestic sphere, while men dominated the
public sphere. It also created the divide between elite and grassroots women by severely limiting women‘s access to education, creating a
divide between educated and uneducated women. Because of these limitations women have tended to participate in informal politics, but
starting the in 1990s, a women‘s movement to become more active in formal politics began. Despite the restrictions imposed by French
colonialism, women have organized to overcome them, and Islam is one strategy they are using. Women actively reinterpret Islam to
achieve equality in society, especially regarding education and political involvement. This research identified the dichotomies of informal
versus formal politics, the domestic and public spheres, and the divide between grassroots and elite women, ultimately concluding that
operating within these dichotomies inhibits the progress of the women‘s movement in Niger. Instead, it is more useful to acknowledge a
spectrum of varieties of politics and the women involved. The research draws upon fieldwork conducted in Niger, archival materials from
the French colonial period, and contemporary studies of women in Niger and in a wider African context. By examining how Nigerien
women increase their political involvement and contextualizing that in the scope of women‘s movements in Africa, this research
contributes to strategies women use to increase their political influence in global women‘s movements.
Key Words Related to Project
women, politics, Africa
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Dorothy
Advisor Email
dhodgson@rci.rutgers.edu
Hodgson
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
131 George Street
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Janina Pescinski is a senior in the SAS Honors Program majoring in cultural anthropology and French. She spent a year at the Sorbonne
in Paris and interned at the US Embassy in Niamey, Niger, where she conducted fieldwork for her thesis. Last year she was an Aresty
Research Assistant with Professor Dorothy Hodgson on the project ―Organizing for Change: Collective Action Among African Women‖.
Her primary research interests include human rights, women, and international development.
Email Address
School Name
JANINAP@EDEN.RUTGERS.ED SAS
Poster 12-2pm
Class Year
2011
Major
cultural anthropology, French
Social Sciences
First Name
Melanie Z
Last Name
Plasencia
Abstract Title
Why Latinas Do IT: A Qualitative Exploration of the Career Choice for Women in Information Technology
Abstract
Over the next eight years, researchers predict a large growth in Information Technology (IT) specialist openings. It is expected that most
of these jobs will remain unoccupied. Many scholars have discussed ways in which to fill in this gap by incorporating and actively
recruiting women of color into technological fields. However, research trying to understand the barriers that hinder women from
pursuing technological careers oftentimes clumps all women of color into one category, ignoring potential racial and ethnic differences
in order to establish general strategies that do not take these differing experiences into account. In particular, Latinas have been
underrepresented in studies regarding women of color and information technology. Latinas are considered to be the lowest
participants involved in computer science careers. This study seeks to understand the factors that contribute to Latinas immersing
themselves in information technology careers, such as computer and technological access, educational background, mentors in
technology, family and class. Through semi-structured interviews with eight Latinas in specialized information technology jobs,this study
identifies not only the factors that have allowed them to become successful, but also the obstacles they have encountered. The interviews
were investigated using hermeneutic analysis and naturalistic inquiry in order to evaluate consistent themes in all of the women?s
experiences. Consistent themes and factors were then inputted into qualitative analysis software. One main finding is that Latinas in
technology were influenced by their families throughout their childhood and adulthood to pursue a technological career. These women
also shared similar personality traits that helped them to pursue such a challenging career such as being stubborn, growing up in ungendered spaces, and developing an interest in math, physics and chemistry. I argue that Latinas and technology should be further studied
in order to promote increasing numbers of minorities in IT, especially that of the lowest participating minority.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Ulla
Advisor Email
uberg@rci.rutgers.edu
Berg
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Melanie Plasencia is a major in Latino, Hispanic & Caribbean Studies with a minor in American Studies and Women's & Gender Studies.
Email Address
melzp@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Latino, Hispanic & Caribbean Studies
Social Sciences
First Name
Elizabeth
Last Name
Plaugic
Abstract Title
Jersey Punk: Gatekeepers of the Underground
Abstract
The New Brunswick underground music scene has been, until now, a largely untapped field of communication. Levels of communication
exist among the bands, the show-goers and those who host the shows. Our research highlights this scene as a field of communication,
extracts and organizes the various communication and information processes within the scene. To uncover this information, we
attended basement shows throughout New Brunswick and collected field notes on the shows. Our field notes consisted of audience
member interaction, audience and band interaction and overall socially-established norms of attending shows. In addition to these field
notes, we also transcribed and interpreted interviews conducted by graduate students with whom we are working. These interviews were
with various ‗active members‘ of the New Brunswick basement scene, from band members to audience members to show hosts. The
transcription process gave us insight into the New Brunswick basement scene from various people and perspectives. The above
research has taught me the various ways in which it is possible to interact with the basement scene as a social space. The levels of
communication that exist within the scene are complex and inextricably tied together. In order to gain access into this scene, one must
know a member or understand its norms. The larger implications of these findings can extend to many underground basement scenes.
This shows that these communication processes can be present in other scenes as well and shows implications for the construction of the
New Brunswick basement scene as a whole.
Key Words Related to Project
New Brunswick, basement scenes, music
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Joe
Advisor Email
sanchezj@rci.rutgers.edu
Sanchez
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Sonia Szczesna, Justin Gaudenzi
Presenter Biography
Elizabeth Plaugic is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Journalism and Media Studies and English. Sonia Szczesna
is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Geography. Justin Gaudenzi is a sophomore in the School of Arts and
Sciences majoring in History and Political Science.
Email Address
eplaugic@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Journalism and Media Studies/English
Social Sciences
First Name
Julia
Last Name
Postiglione
Abstract Title
Aeiotu: Evaluation of a Colombian Early Childhood Intervention
Abstract
The Aeiotu: Evaluation of a Colombian Early Childhood Intervention is a seven year longitudinal study that began in the fall of 2010.
This study aims to measure the growth and development of underprivileged infant and preschool aged children in Colombia. 1400
children were randomly selected from 2 different neighborhoods in Colombia, and randomly assigned to either a treatment or control
group thorough a lottery system. A lottery was possible given oversubscription to the program. periodically using various instruments to
measure development, the project will look at the effect of a high quality early childhood intervention on students‘ cognitive, behavioral,
and emotional growth. The intervention includes enhanced learning experiences within a full day program, as well as nutritional
supplementation. Instruments used are designed to measure language, math and literacy, socio-emotional development, executive
functions, health status, and quality of home experiences. This study is significant because of its focus on high quality services for
disadvantaged children in a developing context for both, infant and toddlers, and on how learning experiences in early development are
crucial in the long-term. The intervention is expected to facilitate all mentioned dimensions of development and the study is designed to
provide information on the level of effect on outcomes and the cost-effectiveness of the program.
Key Words Related to Project
Early Childhood Education
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Milagros
Advisor Email
mnores@nieer.org
Nores
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
20 Albany Street
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Julia Postiglione is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology, with a concentration in Education.
Email Address
julpost@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
2013
Major
Social Sciences
First Name
Daniel
L
Last Name
Rauchwerk
Abstract Title
Economics of an Empty Stomach: A Comparative Study of Food Crises in Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria
Abstract
This project involves a comparison of the effects of economic factors on food crises in Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe and includes an
accompanying CD of original music dealing with the human sides of food crises. My goal is to establish whether there are any
particularly damaging factors present in any or all of the three countries, and based on the findings, to present some possible policy
recommendations to help reduce the occurrence of these crises. Additionally, through references to the songs at appropriate times, I hope
to remind the reader that these crises are not just numerical catastrophes, rather they directly impact the daily lives of millions around the
world. Upon examination of multiple food crises in each country I have found that land socialization and resettlement programs,
international aid donations, agricultural price fixing, and widely fluctuating gasoline prices are the most powerful factors.. Based on these
findings, I recommend the unfettering of agricultural market pricing, a transition towards private land ownership systems, a crisis control
program and budget to plan for disasters and reduce the reliance on foreign aid, and fuel price hedging actions to help alleviate the
ocurrence of these crises. In doing so, I hope to provide governmental policy makers with some ammunition with which to counteract
harmful policies imposed by the past or present governments of these countries and to combat food crises.
Key Words Related to Project
African food crises
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202B
Advisor
Barbara
Advisor Email
bacooper@rci.rutgers.edu
Cooper
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Economics of Food and Water
Advisor Address
003 Van Dyck Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Daniel Rauchwerk is a senior at the Rutgers Business School majoring in Marketing and minoring in African-Area Studies and Spanish.
Email Address
drauch@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Rutgers Business School
Class Year
2011
Major
Marketing
Social Sciences
First Name
Last Name
Mayara Carvalho GodinhoRigobello
Abstract Title
Safety Climate: Perception of Nursing Professionals in a Teaching Hospital
Abstract
Objective: This study evaluated the safety climate among the nursing staff working in medical and surgical clinics in a teaching hospital
in the southeast region of Brazil. Methods: This is cross-sectional, descriptive and quantitative study assessed the safety climate using the
―Safety Attitudes Questionnaire (SAQ) - Short Form 2006‖, validated and translated into Portuguese. Data collection was performed at
the Hospital das Clínicas of the University of São Paulo at Ribeirao Preto Medical School (FMRP-USP). The study included 203
professionals from the nursing staff. Results: Professionals‘ perception of the safety climate varied according to gender, clinical category
and time of work performance. Job satisfaction was demonstrated by all professionals, with scores above 75, while the field "Perception
of management", both for hospital and outpatient clinics, showed the lowest values among professionals for all nursing areas.
Conclusions: Professional satisfaction, communication and the support given by managers to the team are factors that contribute to
ensure patient safety. Professionals‘ perception regarding the management is an important factor to be considered, as this area reflects the
agreement of the professional with the actions of the hospital management related to patient safety. Thus, comprehending the perception
of nursing professionals about the patient safety climate contributes to the improvement of health care and to reduce risks to patients.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Time
Advisor
Silvia Helena Cassiani
Advisor Email
shbcassi@eerp.usp.br
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Av. Bandeirantes, 3900
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Rigobello, Mayara Carvalho Godinho is an undergraduate Nursing student in the University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of
Nursing, (EERP–USP), and currently receives a Scientific Initiation scholarship from the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP).
She received an honorable mention in the 18th SIICUSP (USP International Symposium of Scientific Initiation) and was awarded an
academic travel to present the scientific initiation project at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.
Email Address
mcg_rigobello@yahoo.com.br
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
University of São Paulo at R 2011
Major
BSc in Nursing
Social Sciences
First Name
Blaire
K
Last Name
Rodriguez
Abstract Title
Potawatomi Artisanship: (De)Constructing Notions of Authenticity
Abstract
When were Indians real Indians? Is this authentic? Questions such as these still exist in the contemporary United States as though Native
American communities were to be defined and valued for some ambiguous, mystical ―other‖. While some believe this exotification of
lifestyle and material culture gives Indigenous people dignity, what it actually does is minimize or erase social injustices, dissemble
tangible cultural identity, and further disenfranchise native people. Demographic data as well as a plethora of literature expose
Indigenous communities throughout the Americas as the most impoverished of groups—social issues such as diabetes, alcoholism,
suicide, cancer from chemical waste and extreme poverty that result from a series of historical and contemporary events. But what of the
existing tribal and non-tribal political structures that perpetuate these circumstances? And how do misconceptions about present day
native circumstances and desires serve to blind otherwise educated people about these issues? The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians
is the locus from which one can begin to answer some of these questions. Understanding the mechanisms of their art market as a
microcosm for larger issues of indigenous people reveals harmful social, political and ideological deficiencies of the United States not
only throughout history but today. Using simple ethnographic methods, my goal is to show how ill-conceived notions of ―authenticity‖
versus ―inauthenticity‖ function within the Native American art market, in particular, those notions by non-Natives toward art of the
Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians.
Key Words Related to Project
Indigeneity, Authenticity, Identity, Capitalism, Art
Category
Social Sciences
Room
201B
Advisor
Robert
Advisor Email
robertob@rci.rutgers.edu
O'Brien
Time
10- 11 a.m.
Panel Name
National Identity and Ownership of the Past
Advisor Address
Ruth Adams Building 3rd floor 131 George St New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Blaire Rodriguez is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Anthropology and minoring in Spanish. Her current GPA is
3.647. Blaire's honors thesis on Potawatomi Artisanship: (De)Constructing Notions of Authenticity has been accepted to be presented at
the Native American and Indigenous Studies Association's annual conference in Sacramento, California on May 20th, 2011.
Email Address
blaire@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Anthropology
Social Sciences
First Name
Joshua
C
Last Name
Rosenheck
Abstract Title
An Inductive Analysis of Communication between Optometrists and their Patients
Abstract
Several studies of communication have been conducted analyzing both acute care and chronic doctor visits. However, the optometrist‘s
office offers a unique setting for analyzing ongoing relationships between doctors and their patients, who usually only see each other
once per year. The purpose of this inductive research is to identify and explicate structural patterns and communication techniques used
between optometrists and their patients during an eye exam. Video and audio footage was gathered from 49 different patients at 2
different offices. The analysis is still underway but the following are interesting phenomena discovered in preliminary observation: the
doctor‘s management of colloquial talk and medical talk, the doctor‘s methods of transitioning between these two types of talk, the
doctor‘s obligation to track important events in his or her patient‘s life, how and when the doctor starts and ends tracking, the
communication surrounding patients who admit to poor eye care practices, and patient cooperation with the doctor when tracking fails.
The results of this study will increase our understanding of interaction between doctors and patients.
Key Words Related to Project
doctor patient interaction, institutional communication, relationships
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jenny
Advisor Email
j.mandelbaum@rutgers.edu
Mandelbaum
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
4 Huntington Street
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Josh Rosenheck is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Economics and Philosophy, but he also has an interest in
Communication.
Email Address
joshrose@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
Economics, Philosophy
Social Sciences
First Name
Ramona
Last Name
Ross
Abstract Title
Racial Differences in the Effects of Neighborhood Context and Caregiver Supervision on Juvenile Delinquency
Abstract
Previous research shows significant associations between neighborhood context and adolescent substance use and delinquency, along
with associations between caregivers‘ supervision and these problem behaviors. Few studies have examined how the interaction between
neighborhood context and caregiver supervision affects adolescent problem behaviors. Moreover, no studies, to our knowledge, have
examined racial differences in the interactive effects of neighborhood context and caregiver supervision. This study looks at the
combined effects of neighborhoods and caregivers on adolescent alcohol use and delinquency and determines if these effects differ for
African Americans and Caucasians. We hypothesize that the effects of parental supervision will be stronger for adolescents living in
neighborhoods with higher vs. lower levels of perceived crime. We also hypothesize that this interaction effect will be similar for both
races. The study uses data from the youngest cohort of the Pittsburgh Youth Study (N = 503, 56.4% African American). Neighborhood
context and caregiver supervision are measured at age 14 and alcohol use and delinquency at age 15. Multivariate linear regression
analyses will be conducted to examine main and interaction effects. The results of this study can provide insights into what type of
caregiver behaviors can act as protective factors against the negative effects of community crime on adolescent problem behaviors.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Time
Advisor
Helene Raskin White
Advisor Email
hewhite@rci.rutgers.edu
Panel Name
Advisor Address
607 Allison Road Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Ramona Ross is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences, majoring in Criminal Justice and Psychology, with a minor in
Criminology. Ramona hopes to become a Forensic Psychology.
Email Address
ramross@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
Criminal Justice & Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Wilhelmenia L
Last Name
Ross
Abstract Title
An Analysis of the Impact on the Care of the Elderly of Migration of Mexicans into the United States
Abstract
The large scale immigration of Mexicans into the United States has been the focus of many research projects, but there have been few
studies on the effects of this immigration on elderly Mexicans who remain in Mexico. The elderly segment of the Mexican population
will experience a large degree of growth in the future, and it is important that planners from many disciplines understand how to best
provide for the needs of the elderly in the context of immigration. This study seeks to gain an understanding of how traditional forms of
elderly care in Mexico are affected by immigration into the United States through fifteen interviews with Mexican immigrants living in
New Brunswick, New Jersey. An analysis of the data collected through this research reveals three common themes among the responses:
1) a desire to adhere to a quasi-traditional familial system of support; 2) a reluctance to embrace alternative forms of care, such as nursing
homes; and 3) a call for increased assistance from the Mexican government. The information gained through this project will add to the
growing body of knowledge about immigration and its impacts on the family unit and can be used by planners to develop strategies for
managing the long-term care of the growing elderly population in Mexico.
Key Words Related to Project
elderly, immigration, Mexico, planners, long-term care
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Peter
Advisor Email
guarnaccia@aesop.rutgers.edu
Guarnaccia
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Cook Office Building 206, 55 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Wilhelmenia Ross is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences (Honors Program)and the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and
Public Policy majoring in Public Health and double minoring in French and Biological Sciences.
Email Address
wlross@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS Honors, EJBSPPP
Class Year
2011
Major
Public Health
Social Sciences
First Name
Said
Last Name
Saillant
Abstract Title
The Cognitive and Affective Foundations of the "Soul"
Abstract
The aim of the experiment is to account for the concept of the soul in terms of the interaction of cognitive inference systems. In other
words, it is to identify the constituents of the ―soul-complex‖. A complex is a set of cognitive systems whose principled co-activation
generates a given concept. To identify these systems, subjects are presented with sentences that attribute a candidate system's associated
property to the soul and are asked to rate the clarity of the sentence, i.e. the ease with which it is understood or its intuitiveness. The scale
used has six levels, from ―Very Clear‖ to ―Very Unclear‖, where a sentence is ―Very Clear‖ when it is understood immediately and in its
entirety and ―Very Unclear‖ when it doesn't make sense (i.e., when it is absurd or self-contradictory). The hypothesis is that the sentences
triggering systems which do not correspond to a concept's complex will result in their unnaturalness or counter-intuitiveness (and hence
the judgment that they are unclear) and the activation of those that do not will result in their naturalness (and hence the judgment that
they are clear). There are 29 sentences (attributing properties associated with seven cognitive systems) and 4 groups (two test
groups—one for the soul-complex and the other for the mind-complex—and two control groups).
Key Words Related to Project
soul, concept, inference systems
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202A
Advisor
Daniel
Advisor Email
ogilvie@rci.rutgers.edu
Ogilvie
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
The Working Brain
Advisor Address
Unknown
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Said Saillant is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences, pursuing majors in Psychology, Philosophy and Cognitive Science.
Email Address
said@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Philosophy, Psychology, Cognitive Science
Social Sciences
First Name
Lee
H
Last Name
Seltzer
Abstract Title
The Effects of Crack on Black Youths in the 1980s
Abstract
Crack cocaine is mostly looked at as a scary, intimidating substance, which corrupted the nation‘s youth. Contrary to this outlook, I have
worked with Professor Donna Murch to examine various aspects of the crack economy. In my research, I found articles from leading
newspapers such as the New York Times and Washington Post. Additionally, I have examined personal accounts, US government
reports, and a variety of dissertations. Crack appealed to disadvantaged people, especially those negatively effected by President Ronald
Reagan‘s economic policies. One way that we learned about the crack market was through analyzing time series of the price of crack.
One interesting thing we noticed was that the priced reached a sudden low in 1989. We also looked at cross-sectional data to see the
effect crack had on different cities. In Los Angeles, for instance, had an unusually large crack economy compared to the rest of the
nation. By contrast, in Chicago, the crack market was remarkably miniscule, and only became noticeable in the 1990s, far later than the
rest of the nation. Regardless, this project is not even close to being done. In the future, we will continue to research crack more deeply,
and will utilize interviews to get a deeper understand of the society behind crack. At the point we are at now, we can say that is it clear
that crack can be seen as an explainable social phenomenon.
Key Words Related to Project
Drugs, illicit economy, gangs, crack epidemic
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Donna
Advisor Email
dmurch@history.rutgers.edu
Murch
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
001 Van Dyck Hall
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Lee Seltzer is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences double-majoring in History and Economics. He is currently hoping to
attend a graduate program in history following college. After his time working with Professor Murch, he is considering specializing in
the history of drugs.
Email Address
leeseltz@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
History and Economics
Social Sciences
First Name
Anton
Last Name
Shcherbakov
Abstract Title
Does Group Loyalty Influence Moral Judgments?
Abstract
Moral judgments have been traditionally viewed as the result of a rigorous moral reasoning process. However, recent research suggests
that moral judgments are largely the result of moral intuitions which are guided by both explicit and implicit principles. One implicit
principle is called the principle of double effect. The principle of double effect states that if harm is intended as a means to the greater
good, it is not morally permissible, but if harm occurs as a side effect of a good dead, then it is morally permissible. Very little is known
about other implicit or explicit principles that may guide behavior, so we wanted to investigate whether group loyalty affects moral
judgments, in both adult and preschoolers. We wanted to replicate previous studies showing the principle of double effect to be guiding
moral judgments, so we made use of a classic moral dilemma called the trolley task. To evaluate how group loyalty would affect moral
cognition, we let subjects pick a group at the beginning of the experiment. The groups were represented by two colored party hats, green
and blue. Then, subjects would watch an animation where either their ingroup member or their outgroup member was harmed.
Preliminary results suggest that that regardless of group affiliation, subjects always rated harm as a means to an end as worse than harm
as a side effect (as suggested by the principle of double effect). However, they did not seem to exhibit group loyalty in their moral
judgments.
Key Words Related to Project
morality cognition ingroup outgroup
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Alan
Advisor Email
aleslie@ruccs.rutgers.edu
Leslie
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Anton Shcherbakov is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Criminology. He plans to
attend graduate school to pursue a Clinical Psychology Ph.d in the fall. In his free time, Anton enjoys exploring the great outdoors, going
to shows, and spending time with friends and family.
Email Address
antonsh@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Paul
Z
Last Name
Shi
Abstract Title
The Effect of New Deal Employment Programs in New Jersey
Abstract
The New Deal programs were a turning point in the political and economic history of the United States. Facing a prolonged depression,
the government took drastic steps which resulted in the direct employment of citizens for the creation of public projects. The size and
scale of the programs were enormous and a large number of New Jersey families were affected by the reforms.Although the New Deal
programs have been simultaneously celebrated and criticized, the immediate impact was visible and significant. The new deal programs
also offer an interesting outlook for the future as the government faces high unemployment and a deteriorating infrastructure. An analysis
of personal oral histories through the Rutgers Oral History Archives as well as a thorough investigation of primary and secondary sources
will be presented
Key Words Related to Project
New Jersey New Deal Unemployment
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Sandra
Advisor Email
holyoak@history.rutgers.edu
Holyoak
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
18 Bishop Pl
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Paul Shi is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences studying Economics, Computer Science, History and Political Science.
Email Address
pzshi@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Computer Science, Economics, History
Social Sciences
First Name
Andrew H
Last Name
Smilowitz
Abstract Title
Social Presence effects on Social Facilitation Theory
Abstract
The original submission included an older, uneditted version of the abstract. Please include the following:
Abstract Social facilitation
theory is the oldest experimental theory in social psychology. Social facilitation theory states that in the presence of another, performance
is enhanced during a simple task and impaired during a complex task. This study examined four types of presence: a non-active observer
(co-actor that worked on another task in the same room), active observer (made notes while evaluating performance), video monitoring
(an observer in another room evaluating performance via a surveillance camera) and an avatar/camera combination (computer image that
represents a salient observer evaluating performance via webcam). All four types of presence facilitated the performance on the simple
task. Additionally, results from the post task questionnaire showed that types of presence can be categorized into three distinct levels of
salience (low, medium, and high salience). Implications of present results for a modified theory of social facilitation theory are discussed.
Key Words Related to Project
Social Facilitation Theory
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202B
Advisor
John
Advisor Email
jack.aiello@gmail.com
Aiello
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
Social Effects on Behavior
Advisor Address
621 Tillett Hall, 53 Avenue E, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Andrew Smilowitz is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minors in Economics and Statistics.
Andrew has been involved in Dr. Aiello's Social Organizational lab for the last two years completing several research projects in the areas
of social and industrial/organizational psychology. These projects include the Cooper fellowship project, this honors project, and
currently working on a follow-up study to the previous honors study as part of an Aresty project.
Email Address
andrewsm@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
arts and sciences
Class Year
2011
Major
psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Zachary S
Last Name
Smith
Abstract Title
The Influence of Real-Time Feedback on Residential Electricity Consumption
Abstract
Conservation of electricity has been of social concern for decades. The purpose of this study is to see if the way in which real-time energy
feedback is presented to consumers influences the behavior of energy use. It is hypothesized that providing real-time energy use feedback
will help consumers use less electricity, especially if that feedback is presented in comparison to reference points. In this ongoing study,
654 PSE&G residential customers in the New Brunswick area were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: feedback with
reference points (a reduction goal based on the previous year‘s consumption and a social norm reflecting the usage of the most efficient
participants in the study), feedback with cost information, or no feedback at all (the control group). Participants in the two experimental
groups received an electricity feedback device known as The Energy Detective (TED), which is used to monitor electricity consumption.
PSE&G will provide billing history data on participants during the 18-month study, which, relative to the participants‘ electricity use
during the pre-study period, will serve as the dependent measure. Following the principles of behavioral decision theory, it is predicted
that subjects in the reference points group will use less electricity than those in the cost group, who will in turn use less than those in the
control group. The results may suggest that an accessible and easily comparable presentation of information regarding electricity
consumption can reduce the amount of electricity consumed.
Key Words Related to Project
Electricity Reduction Feedback
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Gretchen
Advisor Email
gbc@rci.rutgers.edu
Chapman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway NJ 08854-8020.
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Zach Smith is a sophomore at the School of Arts and Sciences, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Music.
Email Address
zsmith@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Arts and Sciences
Class Year
2013
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Esther
L
Last Name
Sonnenblick
Abstract Title
The Effect of On-Going Suffering on Prejudice
Abstract
Some people believe the world is fundamentally just – people deserve what they get and get what they deserve (Lerner & Simmons
1966). Consistent with this theory, when German participants were given an article about how Jews today still suffer from the aftereffects of the Holocaust, they expressed more anti-Semitism than those given an article about Jews having overcome that terrible time
(Imhoff & Banse, 2009). We attempted to replicate these findings in support of the just-world hypothesis and determine whether the ongoing suffering and no on-going suffering articles increase or decrease anti-Semitism. In a 2(bogus pipeline, no bogus pipeline) x 3 (ongoing suffering, no on-going suffering, control) x 3 (political affiliation) between-subjects experiment, we attempted to replicate the
findings of Imhoff and Banse while including a control article to determine where baseline anti-Semitism falls. Additionally, we included
other prejudicial scales to determine if this effect could be applied generally or only to anti-Semitism. Although we were not able to
replicate the findings in the German study, we found a main effect for political affiliation and a significant 3-way interaction of political
affiliation, article condition, and bogus pipeline condition on anti-Semitism. There was also a main effect of bogus pipeline conditions on
anti-Israeli sentiment. These results do not support the belief in the just world theory as strongly as in the original German study and may
imply that the theory only applies to the aggressor of the suffering party.
Key Words Related to Project
anti-Semitism, prejudice, on-going suffering
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lee
Advisor Email
jussim@rci.rutgers.edu
Jussim
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Dept. of Psychology Rutgers University 53 Ave E Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Esther Sonnenblick is a senior in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Biological
Sciences. This study is of special interest to me as it relates to the psychology of anti-Semitism class I took in the Fall 2009 semester. My
advisor, Professor Lee Jussim, has published extensively on the topics of stereotypes and prejudice. Recently, he has conducted prejudice
research concentrated in the area of anti-Semitism.
Email Address
esonnen@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Abraham I
Last Name
Stanway
Abstract Title
Citizen Science 2.0
Abstract
Citizen science is the concept that ordinary people can contribute real scientific data to actual research. I am building a tool that utilizes
existing social network platforms to connect researchers in various fields with citizen scientists - the researchers can list their projects on
my application, and the citizen scientists can submit data to any given project. In turn, the researchers will be able to use this data to
further their research. In addition to helping facilitate citizen science, the application will provide data about user participation,
interaction, and retention. There are several social institutions built into the application that should encourage all of the above, including
various points and ranking systems. Once a substantial user base has been built, I will be able to take metrics relating to user interface
design and user participation, contributing to current knowledge of how to best encourage and influence user participation.
Key Words Related to Project
citizen science, facebook, social media
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Mor
Advisor Email
mor@rutgers.edu
Naaman
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
CIL 305
Other Students Involved
Smitha Thomas, Jonathan Tsui
Presenter Biography
Abe Stanway is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences, majoring in both Philosophy and Computer Science.
Email Address
astanway@eden.rutgers.edu
Video Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2012
Major
Philosophy, Computer Science
Social Sciences
First Name
Jessica
L
Last Name
Stockl
Abstract Title
Social Learning Mechanisms of Cultural Evolution
Abstract
Distinguishing between Social Learning Mechanisms in evolutionary anthropology, there has been much research and many experiments
involving social learning mechanisms; that is, the processes utilized by individuals and groups to transmit knowledge. However,
sometimes it is difficult to differentiate between two or more of these mechanisms (e.g. random independent invention vs. imitation). This
experiment attempts to distinguish between several forms of social and independent learning mechanisms. To accomplish this
participants are given building materials and asked to build a device that holds weight. There are four different conditions of the
experiment, all under altered circumstances of isolation. As the submission of this abstract comes before the end of the study, the data
collected still needs to be analyzed before declaring concrete results. Ideally, by the end of the study, there will be concrete associations
of behaviors to the social learning mechanisms. It is important to distinguish between social learning mechanisms because it will change
how individuals view the transmission of knowledge.
Key Words Related to Project
Social Learning Mechanisms
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Helen
Advisor Email
helewasi@rci.rutgers.edu
Wasielewski
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Victoria Versprille
Presenter Biography
Jessica Stockl is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Science majoring in Social Work and Criminal Justice and minoring in
Psychology. Victoria Versprille is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Anthropology.
Email Address
jstockl@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Social Sciences
First Name
Ziyi
Last Name
Tang
Abstract Title
The Implication of Excess Bank Reserves
Abstract
How do Bank Loans Affect Stock Price after a Recession? Due to the current financial crisis, the Federal Reserve has taken various
measures and acted as the last resort to the banks, which led to huge amounts of excess reserves piled in the banking system. Excess
reserves in the banking system have tripled since the Recession of 2009. These excess reserves will eventually be loaned out to the
markets and to banks. We expect that some of these excess reserves will be lend to corporations and the flow of funds go into certain
sector will benefit that sector‘s business so that the stock price of that sector will be boosted in the near future. We used Excel to organize
and make comparison between the time series data of stock prices from 1960 to 2010 (Global Financial Data) and loans by sectors from
2000 till 2010 (Bloomberg Terminal). In addition, we analyzed the data considering factors such as matching trends between loans and
stock market increases and also examining the matching growth in loans and stock prices. Although it is not reasonable to directly predict
the future exactly due to the volatile nature of market sectors and our limited loan data set, looking at past trends we can assess where
growth is most likely to be after the recessions.
Key Words Related to Project
Bank loans
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Paul
Advisor Email
prflood77@gmail.com
Flood
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Julie Goopta, Zhi Jin
Presenter Biography
Julie Goopta is a sophomore at the Rutgers Business School majoring in Accounting. Zhi Jin is a junior at the Rutgers Business School
majoring in Finance. Ziyi Tang is a junior at the School of Art and Science triple majoring in Mathematics, Statistics and Economics.
Email Address
ziyitang@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
School of Art and Science
Class Year
2012
Major
Mathematics, Statistics and Economics
Social Sciences
First Name
Heather E
Last Name
Tedesco
Abstract Title
Shakespeare in the Shadows: How High School Students "Read" Shakespeare
Abstract
One of the most frequently read texts in American public high schools is William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Unfortunately, the
popularity that Romeo and Juliet has aquired has prompted the advent of several adaptations, translations, study guides, and other
mediums through which Shakespeare's story has been distorted. With the distortion of the text itself, there has been a distortion in the
ways in which public high school students enjoy this text. The goal of this study is to conduct a survey of New Jersey public high school
students who have been assigned Romeo and Juliet in order to understand the following factors: ethnic and cultural background of the
students; their use of study guides, adaptations, films, translations, and parodies to supplement or supplant the actual reading of the text;
the use of dramatization strategies by the instructor; and a variety of other factors that may influence the degree to which the students
read, comprehend, and enjoy the actual Shakespearean text of the play. Results of such a study could help high school teachers to
understand the best ways to teach Shakespearean texts in their classroom; ways that will both engage and instruct their students.
Key Words Related to Project
Shakespeare, high school, study guides, Sparknotes
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Leslie
Advisor Email
fishbei@rci.rutgers.edu
Fishbein
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Heather Tedesco is a junior studying at the School of Arts and Sciences. She is double majoring in History and American Studies and
minoring in Theatre Arts. Currently, Heather serves as the Special Programs Coordinator for the Plangere Writing Center, Program
Assistant for Celebrate New Jersey!, Special Events Coordinator for Cabaret Theatre, and the Fundraising Chair for the Red Pine
Ambassadors.
Email Address
heather.tedesco@rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
History and American Studies
Social Sciences
First Name
Wyatt
P
Last Name
Tolles
Abstract Title
College Basketball's Home Advantage
Abstract
Emile Durkheim posited about how a group or society can influence an individual, and one specific example of such a circumstance is
how a sports team and/or athlete are affected by the crowd in the playing venue. I believe that if a team/and or athlete are playing in their
home venue a team is positively affected by the crowd, in other words the team is more likely to perform at a higher level, i.e. score more,
better defense, and win more games. We conducted a statistical review of the 347 Division 1 schools‘ games from the 1997-1998 season
until the 2009-2010 season and compiled the data to find if schools won a higher percentage of games at home than away. If teams win
more games at home then away, we wish to show how game factors such as crowd size, noise, and density affect a team‘s home
advantage. We then compared the home winning percentages across the conferences of Division I basketball. Further studies will
hopefully be able to conclude the influence that various effects such as crowd size, noise, and density have on teams. Consequently, we
hope to confirm the Durkheimian theory of a group‘s or society‘s effect on an individual through illustrating a crowd‘s positive effect on
a home team.
Key Words Related to Project
home advantage, basketball, group
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
D. Randall
Advisor Email
drasmith@rci.rutgers.edu
Smith
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Wyatt Tolles is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology, Sociology, and Mathematics. He also currently
interns with the Rutgers Immigrant Integration Mapping Program and works as a Mad Scientist teaching science experiments to
elementary-aged children in after school programs. Wyatt plans on continuing his education at graduate school and earning his PhD in
Psychology.
Email Address
giants08@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2012
Major
Psychology, Sociology, Mathetmatics
Social Sciences
First Name
Lisa
T
Last Name
Tran
Abstract Title
Association Between Exposure to Putative Smoking Triggers and Smoking Cessation Success
Abstract
This study used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) data from adult daily smokers engaged in an earnest attempt to quit smoking to
assess relations between exposure to contextual (environment and activities) risk factors and smoking behavior. The extent to which
exposure to contextual risk factors predicts smoking success was examined. Data from a randomized clinical trial of smoking cessation
treatments were used to conduct Cox regression survival analyses to test the effects of contextual risk factors during pre- and post-quit
(pre-lapse) periods on the latency to the first lapse. The final analyses included 261 adult, daily smokers who completed at least 70% of
prompted electronic diaries (ED) reports (pre-lapse). Participants' smoking, environments (i.e., places where smoking is permitted,
cigarettes are available, and others are smoking), and activities (i.e., drinking alcohol and/or coffee) were assessed in near real time with
multiple EMA reports using EDs pre- and post-quit in participants' natural environment. Survival analyses suggested evidence to
environmental and contextual risk factors are related to latencies to a first lapse, controlling for baseline known predictors and measures
of contextual exposure (e.g., living with a smoker). Real-time data of contextual risk factors add predictive value for cessation outcome
beyond that explained by baseline predictors. By understanding the contexts in which smokers are exposed to, we can gain more
knowledge that can be used to target interventions to prevent a lapse.
Key Words Related to Project
smoking cessation, contextual risk factors
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Danielle
Advisor Email
demccart@rci.rutgers.edu
McCarthy
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
112 Paterson Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Lisa Tran is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Public Health and Psychology.
Email Address
lisatran@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Public Health and Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Francesca
Last Name
Venezia
Abstract Title
How To Answer Which Questions: An Experimental Approach
Abstract
This study seeks to examine the theoretical existence of a subject-object asymmetry witnessed in the accessibility of pair-list answers.
Questions that contain an object wh and a subject quantifier (Which girl did everyone see?) are predicted to allow pair list answers (John
saw Mary, Jim saw Jane, and Sam saw Martha), while questions that contain a subject wh and object quantifier (Which girl saw
everyone?) are predicted to not allow pair list answers (Chierchia 1993, May 1985, Agüero-Bautista 2001). Achimova et. al.(in
preparation) experimentally found that at least 30% of people did not exhibit an asymmetry between subject and object quantifier
questions. This lack of discrimination between pair list answer availability for subject and object quantifier questions contradicts the
theoretical predictions. This experiment both replicates and extends the previous experiment in order to determine the significance of the
30% and why this was the result. This experiment uses a forced judgment task with an increased number of items (n=20) per condition in
order to get more reliable patterns for each speaker. Data analysis uses signal detection methodology in order to obtain a more sensitive
result measurement. If participants accept pair list answers for object quantifier questions, this will demonstrate access to what is said to
be theoretically inaccessible, and would mean the theories on wh-quantifier interaction should be redeveloped.
Key Words Related to Project
wh-quantifier interaction, experimental linguistics
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Julien
Advisor Email
jumusolino@gmail.com
Musolino
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Francesca Venezia is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences planning on majoring in Linguistics and Cognitive Science and
minoring in Italian.
Email Address
veneziaf@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2013
Major
Linguistics, Cognitive Science
Social Sciences
First Name
Kristin
Last Name
Vick
Abstract Title
Assessing a Questionnaire Measuring Lying to Appear Unprejudiced
Abstract
Two studies tested the validity and reliability of the Political Correctness (PC) Scale, a measure of lying to appear unprejudiced. Both
studies examined the relationship between scores on the PC Scale and scores on a ―stereotypes and prejudice‖ version of the OverClaiming Technique, a behavioral measure of lying. Both studies also manipulated the salience of normative pressure by varying the race
of the experimenter (Black vs. White) and the type of introduction (prejudice obvious vs. control). Study One tested the PC Scale‘s
generalizability by employing a community sample. Results support the general hypothesis that the PC Scale is a valid and reliable
measure of lying to appear unprejudiced. Study Two attempted to test the alternative hypothesis that the PC Scale is simply a measure of
egalitarianism. Procedures were similar to Study One, with the biggest exception being the addition of Social Dominance Orientation
(SDO) Scale, a measure of egalitarianism. Results from Study Two showed a null effect of manipulations aimed at increasing normative
pressure, rendering further comparisons of PC and SDO superfluous and the question of whether the PC Scale is simply a measure of
egalitarianism unanswered. Overall, this research attests to the generalizability and reliability of the PC Scale. Future research is needed
to address the unanswered alternative hypothesis and issues regarding failed manipulations of normative pressure.
Key Words Related to Project
over-claiming, political correctness, lying, prejudice
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Lee
Advisor Email
jussim@rci.rutgers.edu
Jussim
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
53 Ave E Piscataway, NJ 0885
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Kristin Vick is a senior at Rutgers University School of Arts and Sciences, double majoring in Psychology and Criminal Justice with a
minor in Criminology. This is her fourth semester working with Dr. Lee Jussim in his Social Perception Lab. In the future, Kristin hopes
to pursue a Ph.D. in a field related to psychology and the criminal justice system.
Email Address
mskrisvick@gmail.com
Poster 12-2pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2011
Major
Psychology/Criminal Justice
Social Sciences
First Name
Michael
Last Name
Wang
Abstract Title
Propaganda and its Effects on Individual and Group Perceptions
Abstract
Propaganda laden with ideology that justifies inter-group violence has been used to spark conflict between groups throughout history
(e.g. Staub, 2003).The purpose of this research is to investigate the role of hateful propaganda in changing people's attitudes and actions
toward a target group.To explore this, we will expose subjects to antagonistic propaganda and measure their anti-target attitudes and
support for policies intended to harm the target group. We hypothesize that hateful propaganda pushes in-group perceptions to rigidly
define the in-group and out-group as a dichotomy, and that the resulting polarization will lead subjects attitudes to be significantly more
negative toward the perceived out-group after exposure. Future directions and limitations will be discussed.
Key Words Related to Project
Category
Social Sciences
Room
202B
Advisor
Lee
Advisor Email
jussim@rutgers.edu
Jussim
Time
11- noon
Panel Name
Social Effects on Behavior
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Michael Wang is a junior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Psychology and minoring in Philosophy.
Email Address
tha1ne@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
SASHP
Class Year
2012
Major
Psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Adrien
S
Last Name
Winter
Abstract Title
Positive Assessments of Food, and Family Relationships at the ‗Ceremonial‘ Family Dinner Table
Abstract
Embedded in everything we say are clues to discerning the patterns through which we communicate. Family dinners provide a wealth of
information regarding people‘s behavior at the dinner table and family dynamics. The focus of this project is positive food assessments
(including compliments) in order to examine the ways families interact with food and one another at a formal meal. We have transcribed
and analyzed videotapes of Thanksgiving, Easter and Passover dinners using the inductive method of Conversation Analysis. We
compiled a collection of instances of positive assessments of food, and drew parallels between different segments in order to discover
regularities in where positive assessments of food are made, how they are composed, what their trajectory may be, and most importantly,
what they are used to accomplish socially. Our findings so far show that positive assessments of food often occur both after food offers,
and after food offers are rejected (among other places in conversation). They may accomplish a variety of different actions including:
changing the topic of conversation, encouraging someone to take or try a food, and justifying a food choice. The ways in which these
food assessments are composed have important implications for family relationships. As our work continues, we anticipate discovering
other locations for food assessments, and other social actions they may be used to accomplish. This work contributes to our
understanding of family relationships more generally as they are enacted at the family dinner table, and to norms of food management in
North American culture.
Key Words Related to Project
food assessments, family relationships, dinner table interaction, ceremonial dinners
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Jenny
Advisor Email
j.mandelbaum@rutgers.edu
Mandelbaum
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
4 Hutington St., New Brunswick,NJ 08901
Other Students Involved
Shama Huq, Jessica Cavall
Presenter Biography
Jessica Cavall is a senior double majoring in Communication and Spanish. Shama Huq is an undeclared sophomore in the School of Arts
and Sciences. Adrien Winter is a sophomore majoring in anthropology and minoring in sociology in the School of Arts and Sciences.
Email Address
adriensw@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
SAS
Class Year
2013
Major
Anthropology
Social Sciences
First Name
Uri
Last Name
Yarmush
Abstract Title
The Variability of Spontaneous Movements May Help Improve Martial Arts Performance
Abstract
Complex movements can be conceived as sequences of
interleaving segments that are intended towards specific goals and spontaneous
transitional segments that are not necessarily directed towards a goal. The former have been widely studied in the field of motor control
but the latter have not been yet explored. Here we hypothesize that the kinematics features of trajectories from spontaneous
movements change with dynamics manipulations. We further conjecture that these
informative of the state of mind of the performer.
changes in variability carry enough structure to be
Key Words Related to Project
autism, motor development, martial arts
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Elizabeth
Advisor Email
ebtorres@rci.rutgers.edu
Torres
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
I am a senior at the school of arts and sciences and psychology major with a minor is sociology, i plan on going to grad school and
getting my PHD so that one day i can do research of my own and teach in a school that is research oriented like Rutgers
Email Address
uyarmush@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
school of arts and sciences 2011
Major
psychology
Social Sciences
First Name
Sarah
A
Last Name
Young
Abstract Title
Investigation of COMT Polymorphisms and their Interactions with PPI and Executive Function
Abstract
The catechol O-methyltransferase polymorphism (Val158Met) is vital in the metabolic degradation of dopamine in the prefrontal cortex,
and has been linked to impairments of executive function and pre-pulse inhibition (PPI). The val allele in particular has been shown to
exhibit reduced cognitive performance as compared to met carriers. Recent evidence suggests that dopamine (DA) agonist-induced
disruption of the PPI of depends on basal PPI values, suggesting an inverted U-shaped relationship between PPI and prefrontal DA
levels. In the present study, we are currently analyzing the effects of the polymorphism on the differential performance on stroop and
tower of Hanoi and pre-pulse inhibition PPI. 30 students were randomly selected to participate in a two part study. During their first
visit, questionnaires were administered to measure levels of anxiety and depression, followed by the stroop and tower of Hanoi tasks.
Cheek swabs were then obtained for DNA analysis. Their second visit consisted of the acoustic startle session, with 75-dB and 85-dB prepulses at 60-ms and 120-ms pre-pulse/pulse intervals. Subjects will be grouped by allelic variation: Val/Val, Val/Met, and Met/Met.
The analysis of this data will include an ANOVA for levels of PPI, task performance, and allelic variation, along with levels of anxiety
and depression levels from the STAI-T and CES-D. We expect that the val allele will show diminished task performance and PPI, and
higher anxiety and depression. These findings will enhance the efficacy of PPI paradigm and executive function tasks in investigating
variability of information.
Key Words Related to Project
genetics, behavior, PPI, executive function
Category
Social Sciences
Room
Advisor
Alexander
Advisor Email
kusnecov@rci.rutgers.edu
Kusnecov
Time
Panel Name
Advisor Address
152 Frelinghuysen Road Piscataway, NJ 08855
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Sarah Young is a psychology major with a focus on physiological psychology, with a minor in philosophy.
Email Address
sarahyo@eden.rutgers.edu
Poster 10am-12pm
School Name
Class Year
2011
Major
Social Sciences
First Name
Jesse
A
Last Name
Zymet
Abstract Title
On the Typology of Coordinative Compounding
Abstract
Nominal coordinative compounds (or cocompounds) are compounds whose roots are semantically coordinated nouns (e.g., Sanskrit
maataa-pitar-au = mother-father-NOM.MASC.DU = ‗parents‘). They are formed productively in languages such as Sanskrit, Malayalam,
Marathi, Chinese and Vietnamese. Languages such as English, Spanish and French do not permit these sorts of compounds but permit socalled co-participant compounds (e.g., mother-father relationship), in which two coordinated roots are subordinate to a head root. Why do
some languages permit only co-participant compounds while others permit both coordinative compounds and co-participant
compounds? In this thesis I argue, on the basis of cross-linguistic evidence, that the structure of cocompounds may be elucidated by
examining languages in which cocompounds are inflected. I further propose a parameter determining whether or not a language will be
productive with cocompounds, and formally implement the mechanisms underlying this parameter. I consider a bracketing paradox that
arises in languages in which coordinative compounds carry both gender and number features, and resolve it by proposing a rule to
determine which supplies the gender of the entire coordinative compound. Furthermore, I explore the structure of verb-verb compounds
across languages, construct a parameter that determines whether a language will be productive with verbal coordinative compounds (e.g.,
Greek aniyo-klino 'open-close'), and compare it with the parameter that determines whether a language is productive with nominal
coordinative compounds.
Key Words Related to Project
cocompounds, co-participant compounds, parameters
Category
Social Sciences
Room
201A
Advisor
Mark
Advisor Email
mabaker@ruccs.rutgers.edu
Baker
Time
1- 2 p.m.
Panel Name
Aspects of Language on Society
Advisor Address
18 Seminary Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1184
Other Students Involved
Presenter Biography
Jesse Zymet is a senior at the School of Arts and Sciences majoring in Linguistics and Economics (with a certificate in Quantitative
Economics) and minoring in Mathematics and Cognitive Science.
Email Address
jzymet@eden.rutgers.edu
Paper
School Name
Class Year
School of Arts and Sciences 2011
Major
Linguistics, Economics