10th Annual State of North
Carolina Undergraduate
Research & Creativity
Symposium
Saturday
November 22, 2014
at the McKimmon Center
NC State University
Division of Academic and Student Affairs
Office of the Vice Chancellor and Dean
dasa.ncsu.edu
Campus Box 7301
NC State University
Raleigh, NC 27695-7301
P: 919.515.2446
November 22, 2014
Dear Undergraduate Researchers, Mentors, Legislators, University, Corporate and Government Recruiters,
Sponsors, High School Students, Teachers and Guests:
It all began at Duke University where undergraduate Emily Heikemp and a committee of students and faculty
from Duke, NC State and UNC-Chapel Hill created and held the first Triangle Undergraduate Research
Symposium (TURS) in November 2003. The second TURS was held at NC State in November 2004. Ten
universities participated with over 100 students, giving rise to the suggestion that a statewide event should
be planned for 2005. The first State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research Symposium in cooperation
with members of the UNC system’s Undergraduate Research Consortium of 16 universities and Duke
University took place at NC State in 2005 with 218 presentations.
This year NC State is proud to again host SNCURCS on its 10th anniversary, where 504 student presenters
from more than 40 institutions across the state will communicate their scholarly works. This symposium: (1)
Recognizes the discovery- creativity- and inquiry-based scholarship and entrepreneurial talents of
undergraduates of North Carolina; (2) Encourages undergraduate research as a way of learning and of
positioning students for admission to graduate or professional school and for excellent employment,
especially in North Carolina; (3) Applauds the hard work and dedication of mentors from colleges,
universities, industry, and government agencies; (4) Cultivates the next generation of research mentors; (5)
Builds North Carolina’s future by enhancing the partnership between higher education, industry, and
government.
Our sponsors are listed with their logos at the end of this book of abstracts. We all owe so much to them for
seeing the importance of scholarship across all disciplines and for supporting hands-on experiences that
really build life-long learners and engaged employees with great ideas. The next generation of inventors,
discoverers, writers, artists, historians, economists, doctors, teachers, social scientists, musicians and more
are with us today.
Sincerely,
Dr. Mike Mullen
Vice Chancellor and Dean
Division of Academic and Student Affairs
SNCURCS 2014
Table of Contents
SNCURCS Agenda……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….1
George T. Barthalmus Undergraduate Research Grants………………………………………………………2
North Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities Undergraduate Research Grants……….3
The McKimmon Conference & Training Center Floorplan……………………………………………………4
Recruiters and Information Fair…………………………………………………………………………………………..5
Lunch and Learn Sessions………………………………………………………………………………………………...6-8
Oral Presentations (Listed by Session and Room)……………………………………………..…………………..…10-19
Poster & Exhibit Presentations (Listed by Session)……………………………………………………….….21-38
Abstract Listing Alphabetical by Lead Student Last name)…………………………………………………40-215
Index of All Student Presenters (Listed Alphabetically)…………………………………………………216-269
By the Numbers……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….271
SNCURCS Agenda
Saturday, November 22, 2014 at the McKimmon Center
TIME
AGENDA ITEM
LOCATION
8:00– 11:00 AM
Check-in & Light Continental
Breakfast
Lobby and Room 2
8:45 - 10:00 AM
Vendor and Recruiter Check-in and Set
Up
Opening Session: Dr. Mike Mullen,
Vice-Chancellor and Dean
Attendees may drop in to meet vendors
and recruiters
Lobby and Room 1
9:00 – 9:20 AM
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:30 – 10:30 AM
Oral Presentations - Session 1
9:45 – 10:45 AM
Poster Presentations - Session 1
10:45-11:45 AM
Oral Presentations – Session 2
11:00 – 12:00 PM
Poster Presentations – Session 2
12:15 – 1:00 PM
Lunch and Learn Sessions
Room 2
Room 1
Rooms 3-8B
Room 1
Rooms 3-8B
Room 1
Rooms 3-8B
(12-12:15p Pick up Box Lunch in Room 2)
12:15 – 1:15 PM
Undergraduate Research
Directors Meeting
Room 9
1:15 - 1:30 PM
UNC UGR Meeting – Dr. Phillips
Room 9
1:15 – 2:15 PM
Poster Presentations – Session 3
Room 1
1:45 – 2:45 PM
Oral Presentations - Session 3
2:30 – 3:30 PM
Poster Presentations – Session 4
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Oral Presentations – Session 4
4:00 - 4:30 PM
Closing Session – Dr. Chris Ashwell
(Cake and punch)
Rooms 3-8B
Room 1
Rooms 3-8B
Room 2
1|Page
George T. Barthalmus Undergraduate Research Grants
Dr. George T. Barthalmus (1942-2011) was the driving force behind
the creation of the State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research
and Creativity Symposium (SNCURCS). In his 37 years at NC State,
he had a passion for encouraging undergraduates to pursue their
interests through the process of research, be it in the sciences,
humanities, or through artistic expression. He was an advocate for
early involvement of students in the research process as a way to
engage and retain students in academics.
To this end the George Barthalmus Undergraduate Research
Awards have been developed to promote early involvement in the
research process through support of sophomores in a research
project of their design. These awards are designed to assist
students with development and engagement in undergraduate
research. Students from all disciplines are invited to apply for the
awards. The winners of the grant will present their research at the
11th Annual SNCURCS event at High Point University, November
2015.
The following students received the 2014 George Barthalmus Undergraduate Research Grant:
 Lorreen Agandi, East Carolina University, Broad Heritability of Interpopulation Divergence in
Stickleback Color Pattern
 Grace Kim, Duke University, Identification of Novel Regulators of Cell Invasion in Vivo
 Avery Dominguez, UNC- Wilmington, Developing a Test Model System for Hatching
Crustacean Zooplankton
 Edgar Ferrer-Lorenzo, Duke University, Systematic Interrogation of Druggable Pathways in
Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
 Julia Horiates, East Carolina University, Conservation Genetics of the Brook Trout (Salvelinus
fontinalis)
 Amanda Johnson, Salem College, Results of Economic Regulation on Crassostrea Virginica
Oyster: Common Pool Resources and Optimal Yield
 C. Kabryn Mattison, Nash Community College, Past, Present, Future: Hybridization between
Two Dusky Salamander Lineages
 Mollie McKinley, High Point University, Mary Worth's "Pamphilia to Amphilanthus" and the
limits of the Self
 Andrew Reid, East Carolina University, Development of Gd3N@C80(OH)20 as a Contrasting
Agent for Imaging in the Brain
 Samantha Tracy, UNC – Charlotte, Genetic, Emotional, and Executive Control contributions
to Social Networking Behaviors
 Zachary Zechman, NC State University, Measuring Rice Growth with Time-lapse
Photography by Raspberry Pi Computing
2|Page
North Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities Undergraduate
Research Grants
The following students received the 2014 North Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities
(NCICU) Undergraduate Research Awards. The awards are funded by the NCICU Undergraduate
Research Program Endowment. The endowment was established through a gift from the North
Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation and other corporate and foundation entities.
The NCICU Undergraduate Research Program provides funding for undergraduate research in
science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The program was created to encourage
students to pursue careers or advanced degrees in science, technology, engineering and
mathematics, and to promote greater diversity in these fields by making it possible for students
who are often underrepresented (new American, low-income, first-generation and/or minority
college students) to participate in undergraduate research opportunities.
 Forrest Robinson, Chowan University
 Molly Kuo, Duke University
 Sagar Patel, Duke University
 Caleb Brown, Guilford College
 Sarah Katherine Springthorpe, Salem College
3|Page
The McKimmonConference & Training Center Floorplan
Room 1:
 Recruiter and Organization Information Fair
 Poster Sessions
Room 2:
 Opening and closing sessions
 Breakfast & Lunch Pick Up
Rooms’ 3-8b:
 Oral Presentations
 Lunch & Learn Sessions
Room 9
 Directors Meeting and UNC UGR Meeting
Room 11/12
 Recruiter/Vendor Green Room
4|Page
Recruiters and Information Fair
10:00 am-4:00pm, Room 1
Booth Number
Institution/Organization
1
MetLife
2
RTI International
3
Binghampton University – The Graduate School
4
Duke University – The Graduate School
5
East Carolina University – Graduate Admissions
6
High Point University – Norcross Graduate School
7
NC State – The Graduate School
8
North Carolina A&T – The Graduate School
9
North Carolina Central University – School of Graduate Studies
10
University of North Carolina at Charlotte - The Graduate School
11
University of North Carolina at Pembroke - Graduate Studies
12
University of North Carolina at Wilmington - Graduate Studies
13
Winston-Salem State University – Graduate and Professional Programs
14
NC State - College of Engineering Research and Graduate Programs
15
Georgia Institute of Technology – College of Sciences
16
NC State - College of Sciences - Chemistry Graduate Program
17
NC State – College of Sciences - Department of Animal Science
18
Methodist University - Physical Therapy
19
North Carolina Central University - Department of Psychology
20
NC State - Physiology Graduate Program
21
NC State - College of Vet Med
22
Georgia Institute of Technology - Scheller College of Business
Thank you to the recruiters for their support and participation in SNCURCS 2014!
5|Page
Lunch & Learn Sessions
12:15-1:00pm, Rooms 3-8B
Room 3: "Preparing for and applying to Graduate School and
the Comparative Biomedical Sciences Program at the Vet School"
Presenter/Title: Dr. Johnna Frierson, Coordinator of Graduate Programs and Research Training
(College of Veterinary Medicine - NCSU)
Short description of session: This session will answer the question, "What is a PhD?", and give
students information on how to assemble a competitive application for PhD programs
specifically addressing the Comparative Biomedical Sciences program in the College of Veterinary
Medicine at NC State University.
Short bio: Dr. Johnna Frierson, a native of Rock Hill, SC, received her doctorate in Microbiology
and Immunology from Vanderbilt University in 2012. She was a fellow in the STEM Program
Director Postdoctoral Fellowship at UNC-Chapel from 2012-2013. Her research interests include
virology and disease pathogenesis. She is also very passionate about student success and
professional development and loves to help students with a desire to pursue careers in the STEM
field. In her current position in the College of Veterinary Medicine she coordinates 4 graduate
programs comprised of approximately 80 students and assists with their student services,
professional development, and research training needs, in addition to spearheading the new
Undergraduate Research Training program being developed at the College of Veterinary
Medicine.
Room 4: “Making Yourself Competitive for Graduate School”
Presenter/Title: Dr. Dave Shafer, Assistant Dean of the Graduate School (NCSU)
Short description of session: This session will address things to consider when selecting a
graduate school, as well as how to put together a successful application. Information also will be
provided on how to finance graduate education.
Short bio: Dr. David Shafer is Assistant Dean of the Graduate School at North Carolina State
University. He is responsible for oversight of fellowship and traineeship programs, graduate
recruitment initiatives, and diversity programs. In addition, he organizes a number of
professional development activities to prepare students for graduate school, and to help retain
them once they are enrolled. Annually, Dr. Shafer oversees federal, state, and privately funded
fellowship and traineeship programs valued at over $4 million. He served as one of the Principal
Investigators of the NSF AGEP program, entitled the North Carolina Alliance to Create
Opportunity Through Education (OPT-ED), and currently serves as a PI of the NIH-funded
Initiative for Maximizing Student Diversity (IMSD). Dr. Shafer began working with the Graduate
School in 1990 after receiving his B.A. in political science at the University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill. Prior to his appointment as Assistant Dean in 2003, he served as Coordinator of the
Colloquium on Issues in Graduate Education and Director of Fellowship Programs. Dr. Shafer
earned both a master's degree in political science (1993) and Ph.D. in public administration
(2002) from North Carolina State University.
6|Page
Room 5: “Summer Undergraduate Research Opportunities”
Presenter/Title: Dr. Sue Carson, Director of TH!NK (Quality Enhancement Plan and Associate
Professor of Plant and Microbial Biology (NCSU)
Short description of session: This discussion will focus on identifying summer undergraduate
research opportunities across the United States. We will also discuss what to include in your
application to stand out to program directors.
Short bio: Dr. Carson graduated from Rutgers University (New Brunswick, NJ) with a B.S. in
Biotechnology, and from the University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill, NC) with a Ph.D. in
Microbiology. Her area of scientific expertise is in molecular mechanisms of bacterial
pathogenesis. Prior to leading the QEP, Dr. Carson spent over ten years leading curriculum
development for the NC State Biotechnology Program as its Academic Coordinator. Her scholarly
work over the last ten years has focused on college-level biology education. She has received
multiple awards for teaching excellence and innovation and is a member of the Howard Hughes
Science Education Alliance, promoting and implementing inquiry-guided learning and authentic
research in the undergraduate classroom laboratory. She co-authored two molecular biology lab
manuals, and has published numerous peer-reviewed papers in the area of course and
curriculum development. She has mentored over 100 undergraduate students in research
projects and is the PI and Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded Integrative
Molecular Plant Systems Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program. She serves on
the Leadership Council of the National Science Foundation BIO REU, and on the Board of
Directors of the Wake County Beekeeping Association.
Room 6: “Five Points for Success: Can Help You Be a ‘STAR’ Applicant”
Presenter/Title: Dr. Anita Flick, Director Health Professions Advising/Teaching and Assistant
Professor (DASA - NCSU)
Short description of session: This session will help students navigate the highly competitive
process of applying to some of the nation's top medical schools and health care graduate
programs.
Short bio: Dr. Flick received her undergraduate degree from NCSU, her medical degree from UNC
School of Medicine and performed her PhD work at Wake Forest in Physiology and Pharmacology
and their masters in education program. She returned to NCSU in 2004 to help expand the prehealth program and curriculum. She currently oversees approximately 5000 students interested
in health care careers and about 500 applicants a year.Prior to coming to NCSU, she worked for
Family Health International/USAID as the Associate Director of Clinical Trials in the areas of
contraceptive R&D and STD prevention working with barrier techniques for preventing HIV
transmission, non-surgical female sterilization, NSV (no scalpel vasectomy), HPV vaccines and
developing contraceptive devices. Her main research studies were conducted in South Africa and
Mexico.
7|Page
Room 7A: “Understanding and Applying for Fellowships”
Presenter/Title: Dr. Tiffany Kershner, Coordinator for Distinguished Scholarships and Fellowships
(University Honors Program - NCSU)
Short description of session: This discussion will focus on identifying fellowship opportunities
across the United States. We will also discuss what to include in your application to stand out to
program directors.
Short bio: Dr. Tiffany Kershner is the Coordinator for Distinguished Scholarships and Fellowships
at NC State. She obtained a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Iowa, graduating Phi
Beta Kappa and with Distinction and Honors, an M.A. in Anthropology from SUNY-Albany, and an
M.A. and Ph.D. in Linguistics from Indiana University. She has an extensive background in
linguistic and cultural anthropology, descriptive linguistics, and African languages. She has done
intensive linguistic fieldwork amongst the Sukwa culture of Malawi, funded through a Fulbright
Student Grant and an NSF Dissertation Improvement Grant. Her most recent linguistic research
focused on the Comorian language Shinzwani.
Room 8A: “Research and Study Abroad: I Can Do Both?”
Presenter/Title: Julia Kisner Law, Associate Director for Curriculum Integration (Study Abroad NCSU)
Short description of session: In this session, Julia Kisner Law from the NC State Study Abroad
Office will highlight both semester and short term opportunities available. She will also provide
some tips on how to make that happen.
Short bio: Julia Kinder Law oversees Curriculum Integration in Study Abroad at NC State.
Curriculum integration strives to increase student access to degree-relevant study abroad
experiences through effective academic collaboration. Julia also oversees the office marketing
and outreach initiatives and coordinates faculty led programs for the Poole College of
Management. Julia's interest in intercultural communication and geography was sparked at a
very young age while living in an international student community while her dad was in graduate
school. She finally had a chance to travel internationally during her study abroad in Vienna,
Austria and Granada, Spain while in college at West Virginia Wesleyan. Since then, Julia has
worked in study abroad offices at West Virginia University (where she also completed her
master's in Higher Education Administration), Bucknell University, and most recently at Penn
State University.
8|Page
ORAL PRESENTATIONS
LISTED BY SESSION AND ROOM
9|Page
Oral Presentations
Time
Discipline
Presenter(s) /
Institution
Title
ORAL SESSION 1 - ROOM 3
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Sociology
Sharon Dei-Tumi
Greensboro College
Fast Food Consumption As a Factor in Ghanaian
Cardiac Health Decline
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Sociology
Ray Gerard Methodist
University
College student attitudes about gun control
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Sociology
Michaela Pavlusik
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Motivations for Migration from Poland to the
United States
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Sociology
Silvana Marr-Madariaga
Guilford College
Mothering North of the Border: A Study on Latina
Mothers' Experiences in Transnational
Communities
ORAL SESSION 1 - ROOM 4
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Engineering Electrical &
Computer
Harry Rybacki
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
An IPython Notebook Based Approach for Refining
Ellipsoid Boundary Modeling based Anomaly
Detection Algorithms for Use In Wireless Sensor
Networks
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Engineering Electrical &
Computer
Boubacar Abdou
Tchoussou
North Carolina A&T State
University
Investigation and Evaluation of Performance
Metrics in Dynamic Spectrum Access
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Engineering Electrical &
Computer
Bryan Bennett
Methodist University
Shielder: A Content Designer for Video Game
Development
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Engineering Electrical &
Computer
Jared Taylor
North Carolina Central
University
Geographic Modeling of Disease Transmission
ORAL SESSION 1 - ROOM 5
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Engineering Materials
William Fuss
North Carolina State
University
Dissipative Particle Dynamics Simulations of the
Self-Assembly of Amphiphilic Diblock and Triblock
Polyelectrolyte Copolymers
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Engineering Materials
Crystal Owens
Duke University
Assembly of Microparticles into Well-Organized
Crystallites in a Two-Dimensional Acoustic
Standing Wave
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Engineering Materials
Kalen Spinks
North Carolina A&T State
University
Material Characterizon of Laser Beam Formed Ti6Al-4V for Aircraft Applications
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Physics - General
Joe Craigle
Appalachian State
University
A feedback response system for the minimization
of applied laser power in an optical trapping
microscope
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ORAL SESSION 1 - ROOM 6
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Environmental
Sciences
Othmane Jadi
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Effect of Climate Change on Pollination
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Environmental
Sciences
Kyle Henderson
Catawba College
Non-lethal predator avoidance by aquatic beetles
to the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Environmental
Sciences
Bianca Moeller
Pfeiffer University
Fuel Efficient Wood Burning Stoves Decrease
Wood Use in a Biodiversity Hotspot
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Environmental
Sciences
Nashmil Islam
Appalachian State
University
Altitudinal Study of Wilson Creek
ORAL SESSION 1 - ROOM 7A
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Engineering Industrial &
Systems
Kionda Townsend
North Carolina A&T State
University
Open Plan Office Layout: Cubicle vs Open Bay
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Engineering Industrial &
Systems
Measurement of Stress and Performance Levels
Due to Disruptions
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Engineering Industrial &
Systems
Tiara Gray / Briana
Steele / Cedric
Watlington
North Carolina A&T State
University
Kiffinae Sanders / Rohith
Nama / Jamari Guy
North Carolina A&T State
University
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Engineering Industrial &
Systems
Teneika Askew
Fayetteville State
University
Fighting Fraud in Unemployment
Analysis of Dementia Caregiver Activities to
Support Requirements Gathering for Technology
Design
ORAL SESSION 1 - ROOM 7B
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Education
Dakota Murray / James
Corsi / Timothy Ransom
/ Scott Shuffler
Appalachian State
University
Teaming Up to Develop Components for an
Automated Grading System for Computer Science
Education
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Education
Abigail Vining
East Carolina University
Education and the Arts
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Education
Jessica Hatcher
North Carolina State
University
Comparing Pre-Service Teachers’ Discourse
Strategies in Discussions of Literary and Authentic
Dialect
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Education
Jillian Correia
Wake Forest University
A Study of School Meals: How Cafeteria Culture
Shapes the Eating Habits of Students
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ORAL SESSION 1 - ROOM 8A
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Mathematics
Sarah Dorrell
High Point University
Grids, Games, and Rigidity
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Mathematics
Kyndreshia Stroman
Fayetteville State
University
Insights into New Optical Functionalities of a
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Mathematics
Hal Lin
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Triangles and Squares and Polyhedra-Oh My: A
Closer Look at Pollock's Conjectures
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Mathematics
Dakota Murray
Appalachian State
University
Single Channel Source Separation Applied to
Beehive Audio Recordings
ORAL SESSION 1 - ROOM 8B
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Arts - Performing
Eileen Jakeway / Jaden
Barney
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
The Last Question Opera Performance
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Arts - Visual
Mackenzie Smith / David
Clanet
East Carolina University
The Lost Colony Documentary
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Arts - Performing
Victoria Neff
East Carolina University
Heroine/Harrowing Circumstancesâ€” To Be or
Not to Be a Role Model in a Glass (Ceiling)
Menagerie
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Arts - Performing
Jessica Quah
Greensboro College
Songs from a Bard Immortal: An Analysis of Three
Settings of Shakespearean Text in Late Romantic,
20th Century and Contemporary Art Song
ORAL SESSION 2 - ROOM 3
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Psychology
Cristina Rekeibe
East Carolina University
Musical Performance Perception and Heart Rate
Variability
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Psychology
Victoria Purcell / Khristin
Isley
Pfeiffer University
Personality doesn’t matter, it’s looks:
Attractiveness and Social Media
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Psychology
Chelsea Smith / Mariah
Wright
Methodist University
Textsperimenting: A Norms-Based Intervention for
Binge Drinking
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Psychology
Katelyn Long
High Point University
A Review of the Comparative Study of Human and
Non-human Cognitive Ability
ORAL SESSION 2 - ROOM 4
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Engineering Electrical &
Computer
Aaron Smedley
Guilford College
User Authentication Using Face and Voice
Recognition Configured with Raspberry Pi
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Engineering Electrical &
Computer
Nathan Hernandez
Appalachian State
University
Remote Beehive Surveying
12 | P a g e
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Engineering Electrical &
Computer
Ahmar Gordon
Appalachian State
University
Using Makey-Makey as an Educational and
Programming Tool
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Engineering Electrical &
Computer
Aleksander Ratzloff
Appalachian State
University
Analysis of Structured or Semi-structured Data on
a Hadoop Cluster
ORAL SESSION 2 - ROOM 5
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Biomedical
Sciences
Vernon Espinoza
Appalachian State
University
Antibacterial properties of Moringa oleifera
extracts against Escherichia coli
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Biomedical
Sciences
Krishnaveni Balakrishnan
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
The Prevalence of Alzheimer's Disease in America
VS India
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Biomedical
Sciences
Lesley Manuh
Guilford College
Antimalarial care during pregnancy in West Africa,
Ghana
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Biomedical
Sciences
Joseph Denman
Appalachian State
University
Development of a Cardiac-Specific Hydrogel for
Photo-Pattering Cardiac Tissue Constructs
ORAL SESSION 2 - ROOM 6
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Environmental
Sciences
Skye Tracey
Appalachian State
University
The Effect of Rising Spring Temperature on RubyThroated Hummingbird Migration and Nectar
Source Phenology
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Environmental
Sciences
Forrest Robinson
Chowan University
Soil respiration in a swamp forest, mixed
deciduous forest, and planted pine forest within
the Meherrin River Field Site
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Environmental
Sciences
Michael Stemkovski
North Carolina State
University
Hierarchical modeling of Daphnia magna
population dynamics
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Environmental
Sciences
Antony Cochran
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
The B. Everett Jordan Reservoir: Diseased Lake,
Diseased Policy
ORAL SESSION 2 - ROOM 7A
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Engineering Industrial &
Systems
John Francis
North Carolina A&T State
University
Methodology for Assessment of Behavior and
Subjective Experience in Open Plan Office Designs
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Accounting
Melanie Giovannetti
Methodist University
DVA Tracking System
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Business
Jessica Kellam
Guilford College
A Legal Analysis of the 2014 Dan River Coal Ash
Spill
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Business
Shiva Sharma
Methodist University
The Effects of Case Management on Frequent
Emergency Department Users
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ORAL SESSION 2 - ROOM 7B
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Agricultural
Sciences &
Economics
Sherrell Pettiford
North Carolina A&T State
University
Swine Production Style Influences Histological
Morphology, Proteomic Dynamics and Superoxide
Dismutase Expression in the Tracheal Epithelium
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Earth Science
Abigail MaioranaBoutilier
East Carolina University
Investigation into the Origins of the Younger Dryas
Black Mats
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Atmospheric
Sciences
Ian Krintz
Appalachian State
University
A Study of Aerosol Optical and Chemical Properties
from the Perspectives of Source Region, Local, and
Synoptic Meteorology During Summer 2013 at a
Southeast US Regionally Representative Site
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Atmospheric
Sciences
Stephen Grooms
Guilford College
Personal Weather Station
ORAL SESSION 2 - ROOM 8A
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Statistics
Reuben Chemmanam
Appalachian State
University
Statistical Trends in Ecological Footprints of
Adolescents by Degree of Urbanization
11:00 - 11:15 AM
English
Tayla Curran
High Point University
The Healing Power of Narrative Medicine: Aiding
Adults in Aging Creatively
11:15 - 11:30 AM
English
Lura Nentrup
Appalachian State
University
Creation Myths and the Rise of Patriarchy
11:30 - 11:45 AM
English
Anuradha Bhowmik
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Between Two Selves: Reuniting Dual Cultural
Identity Through Life Writing
ORAL SESSION 2 - ROOM 8B
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Arts - Visual
Camille Knudsen
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Baekja: The Last Korean Pottery
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Foreign Languages
& Literature
Yihui Sheng
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Harmony of Wine: Interpretation of Confucian
Harmony through Wineâ€™s Production and
Development, Social Role, and Religious Function
in The Book of Songs
11:15 - 11:30 AM
International
Studies
Mehr Sher
North Carolina State
University
Effects of the Nation-State System on Tribal
Societies: Case Study of the Pashtuns
11:30 - 11:45 AM
International
Studies
Cecilia Yanez
Appalachian State
University
The Investigation of The Cultural Evolution of
Hispanic Children
Madison Bergstedt
Appalachian State
University
Religion and Impact on Immigration
ORAL SESSION 3 - ROOM 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Philosophy &
Religious Studies
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2:00 - 2:15 PM
Philosophy &
Religious Studies
Cody Spencer
East Carolina University
The Philosophy of Happiness: A State of Being
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Philosophy &
Religious Studies
Jeremy Gilreath
Guilford College
The Historical Ebb and Flow of Zen Buddhism and
Ukiyo-e in Japan
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Philosophy &
Religious Studies
John Ruckelshaus
Duke University
Identity, Autonomy, and the Essentiality of
Disability: Examining the Medical and Social
Models
ORAL SESSION 3 - ROOM 4
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Engineering Electrical &
Computer
Tyree Parker
East Carolina University
Subsystem Design of UAS flight Control
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Engineering Electrical &
Computer
Glenn Keener
Appalachian State
University
Using Kinect to Spell English Words
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Engineering Mechanical &
Aerospace
Nathen Munyak
East Carolina University
Use of Image Recognition in Guiding UAV's
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Engineering Mechanical &
Aerospace
Keshav Avva
Appalachian State
University
Bottle Rocket with Drop-Away Boosters
ORAL SESSION 3 - ROOM 5
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Biological Sciences
- Toxicology
Jake Thomas
East Carolina University
Exposure to Oil-Dispersant Mixture Induces
Spermatogenetic Defects in Caenorhabditis
Elegans
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Biological Sciences
- Toxicology
Blake Rumble
East Carolina University
Dual electrochemical and physiological apoptosis
assay detection of in vivo generated nickel
chloride induced DNA damage in Caenorhabditis
elegans.
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Biological Sciences
- Toxicology
Kaitlyn McMinn
North Carolina Central
University
Effects of Household Antiseptics on Bacteria
Obtained From Skin
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Biological Sciences
- Toxicology
Devon Keeler
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Evaluation of several bioassays for detection of
brevetoxins
ORAL SESSION 3 - ROOM 6
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Biological Sciences
- Microbiology
Lauren Askew
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Optimization of a Fluorimetric Assay to Measure
Autophagy in Yeast Cells
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Biological Sciences
- Microbiology
Rachel Cohn
NC School of Science and
Mathematics
Emerging marine disease: Variation in response to
climate change conditions among strains of
Serratia marcescens
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Biological Sciences
- Microbiology
Tori Rightmyer
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Identification of Antiviral Activity Associated with a
Compound from the Marine Dinoflagellate
Amphidinium gibbosum
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2:30 - 2:45 PM
Biological Sciences
- Microbiology
Akshay Sankar / Teja
Peddada
North Carolina State
University
Bioremediation of Heavy Metals in Leachate Using
Metallotolerants
ORAL SESSION 3 - ROOM 7A
1:45 - 2:00 PM
English
Meredith Richardson
Wake Forest University
Interpersonal Engagement in First Year
Undergraduate Writing
2:00 - 2:15 PM
English
Sophie Weaver
Appalachian State
University
Granting Asylum for Illegal Immigrants
2:15 - 2:30 PM
English
Megan Cooper
Appalachian State
University
An Examination of the Immigrant Experience in
Watauga County
2:30 - 2:45 PM
English
Sarah Patterson
High Point University
Fractured Selves: Dislocating Identity in Angela
Carter's Gothic Heroines
ORAL SESSION 3 - ROOM 7B
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Political Science
Cadine Bramwell
Saint Augustine's
University
International Students without a Working Visa:
Dilemma and Hope
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Political Science
Darren Foster
Guilford College
Freedom of Choice and Autonomy in Individual
Decision Making
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Political Science
Lucas Piedrahita
Appalachian State
University
The USâ€™s dysfunctional immigration system
denies refugee status to Hondurans with
legitimate claims
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Political Science
Nicholas Hutton
Guilford Technical
Community College
United States & Chinaâ€™s Trade Conflict
ORAL SESSION 3 - ROOM 8A
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Chemistry General
Jessica Tiettmeyer
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Researching Chemistry Students Perceptions of
the Validity of Summative Assessments
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Chemistry Analytical
Leah Stilwell
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Trace Metals in the Belize River Sediment
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Chemistry Inorganic
Caleb Brown
Guilford College
Fe Catalyzed Negishi Cross-coupling: Cost Effective
Catalyst Simplification
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Chemistry Materials
Adeem Tahira
East Carolina University
Conservation of Archaeological Wood
Alexandria Salisbury
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Engendering Predynastic Egypt
ORAL SESSION 3 - ROOM 8B
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Anthropology
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2:00 - 2:15 PM
Anthropology
Layla Quran
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Palestinian artists of Israel and the Boycott,
Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Anthropology
Lillian Hayward
Guilford College
Exploring Experiential Education Programs:
Student Outcomes and Perspectives within the
Cape Fear River Basin Seminar
ORAL SESSION 4 - ROOM 3
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Biological Sciences
- Neurobiology
and Behavior
Andrew Luo
Duke University
Identifying the causative role of the intraparietal
sulcus on numerical cognition
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Biological Sciences
- Neurobiology
and Behavior
Alexandra Barbour
Guilford College
Exploring the expression of corazonin receptors in
the adult Drosophila brain
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Biomedical
Sciences
Xinyi Chen
NC School of Science and
Mathematics
Vitamin D mitigates diabetic and oxidative stresses
on kidney cells
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Biomedical
Sciences
Katie Nichols
Greensboro College
A Physiological and Sociological Exploration of
Sports-Related Concussions
ORAL SESSION 4 - ROOM 4
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Economics
Sydney Knoechel
High Point University
The Effectiveness of Laws Pertaining to Education
and Women in India
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Economics
Margaret Goscinski
Salem College
Discrimination within the Labor Market Towards
LGBTQ Employees
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Economics
Lindsey Carr
Salem College
How the American Lifestyle Results in Increased
Expenditures on Healthcare With Below Average
Outcomes
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Economics
Shelby Ashley
Salem College
The Fiscal Impact of Florida's 2005 Land-Use Policy
Amendment
ORAL SESSION 4 - ROOM 5
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Biological Sciences
- Anatomy and
Physiology
Brendan Huang
Duke University
Analysis of nitric oxide bioavailability as a function
of sickle cell disease therapy
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Biological Sciences
- Anatomy and
Physiology
Heidi Heimer
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Cardiac Responses to Prolonged Hyperoxia vs.
Hypoxia
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Biological Sciences
- Anatomy and
Physiology
Samuel Fritz
Appalachian State
University
The Effects of Social Networks on Human
Longevity and Quality of Life
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Biological Sciences
- Anatomy and
Physiology
John Fitz-Henley II
NC School of Science and
Mathematics
From Yeast to Cancer: Manipulating the Quorum
Sensing Dynamic
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ORAL SESSION 4 - ROOM 6
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Biological Sciences
- Microbiology
Walter Patterson
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Comparison of Growth Kinetics Models Using
Pseudomonas fluorescens
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Biological Sciences
- Microbiology
Mary Johnson
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Mass Production of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora
Using Solid State Fermentation Technology
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Biological Sciences
- Zoology and
Animal Sciences
Christine Baran
Pfeiffer University
Vehicle Strike Rates Vary With Animal Species
Involved Along a Rural North Carolina Roadway
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Biological Sciences
- Genetics
Joseph Paul
East Carolina University
Modeling genetic interactions in C9orf72
associated ALS
ORAL SESSION 4 - ROOM 7A
3:00 - 3:15 PM
English
Jamie Watson
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
"Many a Mighty Birth": Maternal Imagery and the
Male-Authored Womb in Moby-Dick, Edgar
Huntly, and Dracula
3:15 - 3:30 PM
English
Dianne Scardino
Appalachian State
University
No Immigrants? Big Problem
3:30 - 3:45 PM
English
Kelsey Butler
Appalachian State
University
The Decision of a Lifetime
3:45 - 4:00 PM
English
Sara Scott
Appalachian State
University
Portrayal of Youth
ORAL SESSION 4 - ROOM 7B
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Political Science
Megan Hoover
Appalachian State
University
Harvesting Justice for Immigrants
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Political Science
Caroline Fowle
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Wake Up and Vote: An Estimation of Election
Participation
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Political Science
Jessica Pierce
Appalachian State
University
Desire vs Reality: Mothers Coming to America
ORAL SESSION 4 - ROOM 8A
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Chemistry Biochemistry
Emily Wright
Wake Forest University
Synthesis of Prostate Targeted
Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Inhibitors
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Chemistry Biochemistry
Jaclyn Smith
North Carolina State
University
Positron Emission Tomography Radiotracer
Development to Image Synapses in the Brain
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3:30 - 3:45 PM
Chemistry Biochemistry
Katherine Wang
NC School of Science and
Mathematics
Novel Design and Synthesis of Optimized
Aripiprazole as an Antidepressant
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Engineering - Civil,
Construction &
Environmental
Steven Thornton
North Carolina State
University
Improving North Carolina's Bridges: Methods of
Corrosion Detection and Capacity Restoration
ORAL SESSION 4 - ROOM 8B
3:00 - 3:15 PM
History
Marline Brown
Meredith College
When East Met West: The Cultural Collision and Its
Impact on Chinese Women from the 1930s to the
1950s
3:15 - 3:30 PM
History
Taylor Lee
Pfeiffer University
Tomorrow is Another Day
3:30 - 3:45 PM
History
Antwoine Coleman
Saint Augustine's
University
The Niagara Movement
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POSTER & EXHIBIT PRESENTATIONS
LISTED BY SESSION
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POSTER PRESENTATION SESSIONS
Poster Session 1
Discipline
Poster
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Presenter(s) / Institution
Title
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
1
Ashley Yow
North Carolina State University
Genome size variation and evolution in
the dogwood genus Cornus L. – flow
cytometry analyses and phylogenetic
mapping
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
2
Rachel Slack
Pfeiffer University
Colorful Coleus for Horticultural Therapy
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
3
Danielle Young
North Carolina State University
Recycling the Nitrogen from Algae
Biomass Using an L-amino acid oxidase
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
4
Shane Beeson
North Carolina State University
Potential for Short Rotation Woody
Biomass Crops Relative to Soil Nutrients
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
5
Kelly Kerschner
East Carolina University
Analysis of the miR319-target tcptf24 in
the maize inflorescence
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
6
Ge Cheng
Fayetteville State University
External Application of OPDA Enhances
the Resistance of Wheat Plants to
Hessian Fly Infestation
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
7
Gauri Joshi
Enloe High School
Phenotypic characterization of Camelina
sativa with suppressed cell wall invertase
inhibitor expression
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
8
Lukas Janes
Pfeiffer University
Transition From A Walking Gait to
Running Gait
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
9
Measuring and Interpreting the Effects of
Gravity on Human Biochemical Processes
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
10
Molly Musselwhite
University of North Carolina Pembroke
Ajay Ajmera
East Carolina University
Environmental Sciences
11
Kraig Esswein
Appalachian State University
Microphallus spp. Effects on Orconectes
rusticus Feeding Behavior
Environmental Sciences
12
Katherine Collins
Pfeiffer University
Sometimes Even Bees Get the Blues: Pan
Traps and relative capture rates in an
invertebrate community
Environmental Sciences
13
Ramiro Andrade
Pfeiffer University
Seasonal variations in residency of
avifaunal communities on a rural North
Carolina university campus
Environmental Sciences
14
Erika Mackenzie
Pfeiffer University
Human Footprints: The Impact of Human
Foot Traffic on Wildlife in a Campus
Setting
Environmental Sciences
15
Emily Herbert
Pfeiffer University
Why so blue? A look at the decline of
Blue Crab in the Chesapeake Bay
Environmental Sciences
16
Joshua Casper
Pfeiffer University
Do feral cats impact wildlife presence or
abundance in a college campus setting?
Environmental Sciences
17
KayLynn Newton
Meredith College
Comparing Methodology For Water
Testing In Urbanized Areas
Epigenetic Effect of Modified Diet and
Exercise on Drosophila Melanogaster
Metabolic Phenotype
21 | P a g e
Biological Sciences Genetics
18
C. Mattison
Nash Community College
Past, Present and Future: Hybridization
Between Two Dusky Salamander Lineages
Biological Sciences Genetics
19
Allyson Ryan
North Carolina State University
RNA-Seq Analysis of Sexually Dimorphic
African Cichlid Species M. lombardoi
Biological Sciences Genetics
20
Yu Ting He
Duke University
Role of TOMM40 Gene in Lewy Body
Pathology
Biological Sciences Genetics
21
Amanda Macias
Fayetteville State University
Rate of UV Radiation Induced
Degradation of Human Semen DNA,
Determined by Y-STR Markers
Biological Sciences Genetics
22
Joel Adams
Fayetteville State University
Challenges in Forensic Identification from
UV-Degraded DNA
Biological Sciences Genetics
23
Sidney Bedsole
East Carolina University
Mcm10's C-Terminal domain is involved
in the formation of heterochromatin
Biological Sciences Microbiology
24
Hannah Berry
North Carolina State University
Recombinant expression of Cell Wall
Invertases and Invertase Inhibitors from
Camelina sativa for Functional
Characterization
Biological Sciences Microbiology
25
Wendy Guevara
North Carolina State University
A cell-free system to study redoxsensitive thioredoxin substrate
interactions
Biological Sciences Microbiology
26
Aruna Iyer
North Carolina State University
PCR detection of Delftia acidovorans in
Samples from Sinks
Biological Sciences Microbiology
27
Maureen Cheruiyot
Fayetteville State University
The Effect of Hemp Seed Flour on
Reducing Microbial Growth in Stored
Products
Biological Sciences Microbiology
28
Maliha Talib
North Carolina State University
Biological Sciences Microbiology
29
Erin Stiers
Pfeiffer University
Selective isolation and culture of
Lactobacilli bacteria from fermented
foods with the potential for bacteriocin
production
Bacteriophage Isolation for A.
tumefaciens and P. larvae
Biological Sciences Microbiology
30
J'Lisa Miles
North Carolina A&T State University
Examination of Cytolethal Distending
Toxins in Haemophilus ducreyi Strains
Isolated from Non-Genital Lesions
Biological Sciences Microbiology
31
Vikram Ponnusamy
Duke University
The Role of DNA Repair Genes in RNAMediated Silencing in Cryptococcus
neoformans
Biological Sciences Microbiology
32
Giovanna Bermudez Quiroz
Fayetteville State University
The Effects of Oxidative Stress in an
Antioxidant Deficient Strain of
Escherichia coli
Biological Sciences Microbiology
33
Jessica Vickery
Fayetteville State University
Potential Ultraviolet Light Repair
Mechanisms of the Oral Bacteria,
Campylobacter rectus
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
34
Jessica Avila
Nash Community College
Snout-vent Length Variation in Mountain
Dusky Lineages
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
35
Melissa Bujnis
East Carolina University
Genetic basis of coloration differences in
domestic zebra finch
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Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
36
Kalysha Clark
North Carolina State University
Perceptual Range of a Fossorial Rodent
(Tamius dorsalis) in Fragmented Forests
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
37
Sagar Patel
Duke University
Glial Secreted Proteins Hevin and SPARC
Regulate Synaptic Pruning
38
Colleen Bramwell
Saint Augustine’s University
Do Sleep Disorders Increase The Risk of
Cardiovascular Diseases
39
Rebecca Brenner
Duke University
Effects of Methylphenidate on RiskTaking and Sociability in Adult Zebrafish
(Danio Rerio)
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
40
Daniel Bullock
North Carolina State University
Localization of differential neuron activity
in zebrafish with distinct stress
dispositions using c-fos activity
Chemistry - Biochemistry
41
Raveena Chhabria
North Carolina State University
The Need for More Prerequisites for
Biochemistry
Chemistry - Biochemistry
42
Ian Tsun
University of North Carolina - Chapel
Hill
Characterization of Interactions between
Human Bromodomains and
Polyacetylated Histone Tails
Chemistry - Biochemistry
43
Zachary Riley
Wake Forest University
Areal Analysis of Oropharyngeal
Structures Using Digital Imaging for PreAnesthesia Assessment
Chemistry - Biochemistry
44
Taylor Courtney
North Carolina State University
A Chemo-Enzymatic Approach for the
Production of Novel Terpene Natural
Products
Chemistry - Biochemistry
45
Krista Region
Appalachian State University
Investigating Organic Anion Transport in
Caenorhabditis Elegans Through
Fluorescence Microscopy
Chemistry - Biochemistry
46
Elizabeth Jaimes Landa
Meredith College
FATP1 deletion in macrophages leads to
increased liver triglyceride accumulation
in high fat diet-fed mice
Chemistry - General
47
Sarah Springthorpe
Salem College
Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation in
Arthropods After Dan River Coal Ash Spill
Chemistry - General
48
Arieana Van Allen
University of North Carolina Pembroke
Microwave Biodiesel Production from
Waste Vegetable Oil
Chemistry - General
49
Erica Crockett; Brian Medoza; Christina
Young
Fayetteville State University
Flavonoids as Therapeutic Compounds
Targeting Protein-Metal Interaction
Involved in Alzheimer’s Disease:
Electrochemistry of Quercetin
Chemistry - General
50
Raymond Wiggins
Livingstone College
The Synthesis Of Carbohydrate Porphyrin
And Carbohydrate Phtalocyanine
Conjugates For Targeted Pdt
Engineering - Biomedical
51
Tebogo Ndlovu
Saint Augustine’s University
Effect of Fibroblast Cells on a Soft
Substrate during Connective Tissue
Formation
Engineering - Biomedical
52
Sina Mostafavi
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Basis for Physiological Relevance of Nerve
Cell Culture in 3D Scaffolds
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Engineering - Biomedical
53
Brinnae Bent
North Carolina State University
Quantifying Sleep with the Sleepiband
Engineering - Biomedical
54
Garima Tomar
NC School of Science and Mathematics
Developing an ultrasensitive response in
CRISPR/dCas9 circuitry using Molecular
Titration
Engineering - Biomedical
55
Rasheed Alhadi
Duke University
Finite Element Mouse Model for Blast
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
56
William Hoffmann
North Carolina State University
Modification of polymer coatings for
protein repellency
Biomedical Sciences
57
Jordan Griffin
East Carolina University
Insulin-Stimulated Lactate Production
Biomedical Sciences
58
Samuela Fernandes
North Carolina State University
Osteogenic Differentiation in Human
Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Biomedical Sciences
59
Kebba Mbye
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
RNAseq Analysis with systemPipeR
Biomedical Sciences
60
Edgar Ferrer-Lorenzo
Duke University
Systematic interrogation of druggable
pathways in pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Biomedical Sciences
61
Stephanie Rikard
North Carolina State University
Loss of Functional ATM Activates Rac1
Altering Cell Migration
Biomedical Sciences
62
Meghan Wyatt
North Carolina State University
ATM activation of Rac1 through a
guanine nucleotide exchange factor
independent pathway
Biomedical Sciences
63
Rachel McNeill
North Carolina State University
Delftia acidovorans induces a proinflammatory response in human
monocytes
Biomedical Sciences
64
Cherese Beatty
East Carolina University
Therapeutic Targeting of Reactive
Aldehydes Mitigates Liver Steatosis and
Cardiac Remodeling in Obese/InsulinResistant Mice
Statistics
65
Kelechi Ikegwu
North Carolina A&T State University
Assessing Biologically Inspired Machine
Intelligence for Sustainability Base
Statistics
66
Leigh Herhold
North Carolina State University
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Model
Selection Using Penalization and Strong
Heredity Methods
Statistics
67
William Smith
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Questionnaire Refinment in
Neuropsychological Examinations
Statistics
68
Divya Lakshminarayanan; Hannah
Kuan; Dan Thomas Oliver
North Carolina State University
Has the Impact of the El Nino Southern
Oscillation on North Carolina's Climate
Changed?
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Poster Session 2
Discipline
Poster
11:00am - 12:00pm
Presenter
Title
Arts - Performing
1
Holly Riley
University of North Carolina Greensboro
Low Latency Audio Video: Potential for
Teaching Jazz Improvisation Through
Distance Learning
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
2
Matthew Hamilton
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Relationship between Fatigue and
Musculoskeletal Discomfort in a
University Setting
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
3
Cole Schanilec
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Job Activity Classification and its
Relationship with Musculoskeletal
Discomfort
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
4
Parth Chodavadia
Duke University
Wnt5B Ligand-Receptor Interactions In
Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumors
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
5
Kaitlyn Leonard
Wingate University
To Fly or Not To Fly? An Observation of
the effects of Microgravity on the Flight
Muscles of the House Cricket, Acheta
domesticus
Environmental Sciences
6
Bianca Moeller
Pfeiffer University
Relative Habitat use by Game Animals on
a Landscape Mosaic in Rural North
Carolina
Environmental Sciences
7
Olivia Phillips
North Carolina State University
Examining differences in activity patterns
of the endangered Key deer within urban
and wild habitats in the National Key
Deer Refuge: Inferences from camera
trapping
Environmental Sciences
8
Joshua York
Catawba College
Morphological and Molecular
Identification of Mosquito Diversity in the
Fred Stanback Jr. Ecological Preserve at
Catawba College
Environmental Sciences
9
Stacia Dwelle
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Does Fluridone at Recommended
Application Levels Affect Microalgae
(Phytoplankton and Benthic Microalgae
in Sediment) in Lake Waccamaw?
Environmental Sciences
10
Justine Neville
North Carolina State University
Municipal Wastewater Fate
Environmental Sciences
11
Katherine Vanderburg
Pfeiffer University
Carb-overloaded Ducks Don't Fly: Park
Interpretational Panels and Feeders May
Help Prevent "Angel Wing Syndrome."
Environmental Sciences
12
Ismael Gomez
Nash Community College
The Phylogeography of the Seepage
Salamander (Desmognathus aenus)
Environmental Sciences
13
Alyssa Zsido
Meredith College
Impact of Riparian zone variation on
stream quality in Wake County
Chemistry - Biochemistry
14
Linda Smith; Luisa HernandezEncarnacion; Ilza Medina-Ortiz
Fayetteville State University
Identification and Characterization of a
Bovine Sperm Acrosomal Structural
Protein and Its Potential Role in the
Regulation of Hydrolases' Release During
the Acrosome Reaction
25 | P a g e
Chemistry - Biochemistry
15
Kaitly Woodard
Appalachian State University
Determination of Enzyme Kinetics Using
Capillary Electrophoresis and
Electrophoretically Mediated
Microanalysis
Chemistry - Biochemistry
16
Ashlyn Henson
Appalachian State University
Development of a protein-based system
for the detection of organophosphates
using the pH dependence of enhanced
green fluorescent protein
Chemistry - Biochemistry
17
Frank O'Neill
Appalachian State University
Inhibition of CeOAT by Interference with
the Sodium Gradient
Chemistry - Biochemistry
18
Mia Hall
Elizabeth City State University
Synthesis And Catalytic Activity Of SilverGold Nanoparticles
Chemistry - General
19
Jamison Slate
Appalachian State University
Synthesis, Characterization, and
Applications of Chemiluminescent Esters
Chemistry - General
20
Exploration and Optimization of a Novel
Decarboxylative Coupling Reaction
Chemistry - General
21
Rupa Vummalaneni
University of North Carolina Greensboro
Amanda Mays
Winston-Salem State University
Chemistry - General
22
Stephanie Jensen
Duke University
Synthesis of Aminoarene
Pharmacophores Towards Novel
Antipsychotics
Chemistry - Analytical
23
Kimberly Noel
Appalachian State University
Water Quality Monitoring of Streams
Impacted by Coal Waste Acid Mine
Drainage in Southwest Virginia’s Clinch
River Basin
Chemistry - Analytical
24
The Stability of Grape-Flavored
Omeprazole Suspension
Chemistry - Analytical
25
Tammy Hoang
University of North Carolina Pembroke
Margaret Ross
East Carolina University
Chemistry - Analytical
26
Erica Crockett
Fayetteville State University
Flavonoids as Therapeutic Compounds
Targeting Protein-Metal Interaction
Involved in Alzheimer’s Disease:
Electrochemistry of Quercetin
Chemistry - Analytical
27
Ryan Cook
Appalachian State University
Summertime Measurements of Nonmethane Hydrocarbons in Rural Western
North Carolina
Chemistry - Analytical
28
Paul Tyrlik
North Carolina State University
3-D Tracking of Nanoparticles Near
Modified Surfaces
Chemistry - Inorganic
29
Domelia Dewitt
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Synthesis and Characterization of an
Electrochromic
Bis(tolylterpyridyl)silicon(IV) Complex
Chemistry - Inorganic
30
Caroline Liu
NC School of Science and Mathematics
Isomer Chemistry: Design Ligands to
Adjust Thermodynamics and Kinetics for
Rare-Earth Metal Extraction and Rhodium
Catalyzed Hydroformylation
Chemistry - Materials
31
Caitlin Ferguson
High Point University
Adhesion of Vapor Deposited Gold Films
onto Spun-Cast Polymer Thin Films
Preparation Of Substituted Pyridines
From 4-Methoxypyridine
Investigation of the interactions between
sugars and model membranes.
26 | P a g e
Chemistry - Nanoscience
32
Hamid Kamara
Fayetteville State University
Quercetin Coordination with Cu (II) and
Its Role in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Chemistry - Physical
33
Beverly Dosso
Winston-Salem State University
Plant Oil GCMS
Chemistry - Physical
34
Michael Williams
North Carolina State University
The Structure and Properties of Zinc
Chloride Hydrates
Chemistry - Physical
35
Aiperi Iusupova
Guilford College
Peroxy-radical-mediated
Chemiluminescence and Synthesis of
Novel Analogs
Mathematics
36
Ashley Fowler
Fayetteville State University
Qualitative Analysis: Studying the
Perseverance of Minorities in STEM
Mathematics
37
Rayshawn Locklear
Fayetteville State University
A Comparative Analysis on Academic
Performance of Minorities and NonMinorities in STEM
Accounting
38
Marquita Mallory
Fayetteville State University
Statistics
39
Cory Delaney; Joshua Siever; Allyssa
Pearson
North Carolina State University
The Performance of Pediatric Practices in
the South East U.S. Before and After the
Implementation of the Affordable Care
Act
PM2.5 Measurement Comparison
Between Two Monitors
Statistics
40
William Davis; Jared Morris; Kyle
Pinegar
North Carolina State University
What is the relationship between Atlantic
Basin Hurricanes and those that impact
North Carolina?
Statistics
41
Dana Johnson
Wake Forest University
Projected Impacts of Climate Change on
Wind Energy Density in the United States
Statistics
42
Changes in Agricultural Growing Season
Length in North Carolina
Physics - Astrophysics
43
Physics - Astrophysics
44
Nick Kapur; Michael Dickey; Kristen
Glaze
North Carolina State University
Travis Berger
University of North Carolina - Chapel
Hill
Thomas Benton
University of North Carolina - Asheville
Physics - Astrophysics
45
Dylan Cromer
University of North Carolina - Asheville
Modeling Fast Radio Bursts in Stellar
Coronae
Physics - Biophysics
46
Jacob Cole
Appalachian State University
Steady-state fluorescence anisotropy
measurements of fluorescent-dye-loaded
microspheres
Physics - Biophysics
47
Jenna Brown
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Flexibility Correlation Between Active Site
Regions is Conserved Across Three AmpC
Beta-Lactamase Enzymes
Physics - Biophysics
48
Harsh Patolia
Wake Forest University
Biophysical Quantification Of Collagen
Fibrils In Murine Bladder Extracellular
Matrix
Physics - Biophysics
49
Evyn Lee
Appalachian State University
Towards Microbe Characterization with
Raman Tweezers
Physics - General
50
Benjamin Migirditch
Appalachian State University
Raman Spectroscopy: The Theory,
Applications and Current Research
Skynet Algorithm for Single-Dish Radio
Mapping: Making the Invisible Sky Visible
Fast Radio Bursts and Scattering in the
Intergalactic Medium
27 | P a g e
Physics - General
51
Alexander Mandarino
Appalachian State University
Automation of absolute temperature
measurement in optical tweezers
Physics - General
52
Steven Frye
University of North Carolina - Asheville
Preservation of Silver Nanowires in
Polydimethylsiloxane
Physics - General
53
Andrew Giggey
University of North Carolina - Asheville
Analytical Modeling of Unwanted
Interstitial Growth in Silver Nanowire
Production
Physics - General
54
Aubrey Shipley
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
UV-laser Induced Autofluorescence of
Porcine Pancreatic Tissue
Engineering - Biomedical
55
Taylor Comte
University of North Carolina - Chapel
Hill
Comparing proximal tibia bone stiffness
and structural efficiency in spaceflight
and hind limb unloading with a sclerostin
antibody countermeasure
Engineering - Biomedical
56
Kiera Benson
North Carolina Central University
Fluid Flow Dynamics: Modeling Media
Properties During Electrospinning
Engineering - Biomedical
57
Michael Lee
Duke University
Brain-Machine Interface: Successful
Implementation in Freely Behaving
Monkeys
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
58
Douglas Moore
North Carolina State University
Fractional Precipitation of Hardwood
Kraft Lignin
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
59
Igor Podolsky
North Carolina State University
Design and Characterization of ShapeProgrammable Multiresponsive Hydrogel
Bilayers via Ionoprint Patterning
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
60
Caleb Wilson
North Carolina State University
Analysis of TPP riboswitch regulation in
thiamine biosynthesis operons in E.coli.
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
61
Jonathan Tufts
North Carolina State University
Nanoparticle Transport Kinetics to
Draining Lymph Nodes
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
62
Allan Oduor
Wake Technical Community College
Improving Data Visualization for a VESSD
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
63
Cameren Dolecheck
North Carolina State University
Deep Thought 2.0: Rebuilding a Logic
Proof Tutor for a More Effective Learning
Environment
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
64
Kaitlin Zarcone
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Augmented Reality for Visualizing
Computational Fluid
Engineering - Materials
65
Katie Mcdaniel
Winston-Salem State University
Low cost electricity from Sunlight
Engineering - Materials
66
Micah Bostian
Pfeiffer University
Catching the Waves: An Observation of
Sound and Acoustics
Engineering - Materials
67
Grace Xiong
NC School of Science and Mathematics
Novel Solar Fuel Production of Hydrogen
Gas Using Plasmonic-Assisted
Heterogeneous Catalysis
Engineering - Materials
68
William Therriault
North Carolina State University
Comparing the effects of Gold
Nanoparticles on DNA and RNA
28 | P a g e
Poster Session 3
Discipline
Poster
1:15pm - 2:15pm
Presenter
Title
Biomedical Sciences
1
Anna Bishop
Appalachian State University
Watermelon Supplementation to
Improve the Plasma Antioxidant Capacity
in Overweight Postmenopausal Women
Biomedical Sciences
2
Shannon Osborne
North Carolina State University
Affects of p53 Knockout in
Overexpressing Sp2C Animals
Biomedical Sciences
3
Kunga Denzongpa
Guilford College
Comparative study of Quality for Prenatal
Care of Childbearing Women in Sikkim,
India and the US
Biomedical Sciences
4
Mark Langley
North Carolina Central University
The efficacy of a required fitness course
on reducing risk of cardiovascular disease
and improving fitness in AfricanAmerican college students
Biomedical Sciences
5
Joshua Williams; Dayton Bell; Brianna
Morris
Elizabeth City State University
Effect of Tumor Micro Environment on
Phagocytic Capabilities of Vertebrate
Macrophages
Biomedical Sciences
6
Samthosh Alahari
University of North Carolina - Chapel
Hill
Atherosclerotic Plaque Stability in Aged
ApoE-/-/SOD2+/- Mice: The Role of
Calpain 1 and 2
Biomedical Sciences
7
Patrick Darden
East Carolina University
Investigating the role of SH3PX1 in the
regulation of follicle formation in the
Drosophila ovary.
Biomedical Sciences
8
Taylor Hinnant
East Carolina University
Dietary control of cell cycle dynamics in
stem cells
Psychology
9
Ashkon Koucheki
University of North Carolina Greensboro
Lateralization and the Performance of
‘active’ and ‘rejection’ Types of
Unimanual Manipulations..
Psychology
10
Kelsey Blauser
Pfeiffer University
Learning Better and Learning Smarter:
Connecting colored ink to memory
Psychology
11
Ashley Synger
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Pilot Study of Trauma Symptoms,
Substance Use, and Brain Function in
College Students
Psychology
12
Jonathan Latta
University of North Carolina Greensboro
Different Estimates of Infant Hand
Preferences Result from Different Hand
Preference Assessments
Psychology
13
Farrah Elrahal
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
The Interaction Between Family Support,
Stress, and Rumination in Predicting
Depression
Psychology
14
Amanda Szymanski
High Point University
Mind-Wandering, Topic Interest, Working
Memory, and Reading Comprehension
Psychology
15
DEVELOPMENT OF HAND-USE
PREFERENCE FOR TOOL-USE IN INFANCY.
Psychology
16
Faiza Fraz
University of North Carolina Greensboro
Tabitha Alverio
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Psychology
17
Kyle Landrigan
Pfeiffer University
Spatial Learning Abilities of Visually
Impaired Versus Sighted People
Individual emotion processing differences
predict future depression symptoms
29 | P a g e
Psychology
18
Farah Mohiuddin
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Did He Do It? Differences in Victims,
Perpetrators, and Mutually Violent
Couples’ Responses to a Videotaped
Perpetrator
Political Science
19
Elizabeth Medlin
North Carolina State University
The Right to Development and El Buen
Vivir in Ecuador and Bolivia
Political Science
20
Samantha Sells
Wake Forest University
Embrionic Stem Cell Research: Variations
in State Law
History
21
Amelia Sludds
University of North Carolina Wilmington
From Redemption to Prevention: The
Shift in Rescue Focus from Prostitutes to
Women at Risk during the Progressive Era
History
22
Occupational Shifts for Women in
Wilmington, NC, 1850-1860
History
23
Mallory Koch
University of North Carolina Pembroke
Paige Newhouse
Duke University
International Studies
24
Gibea Besana
North Carolina State University
Vocational Education and Training in the
European Union: Driving Forces and
Successes
International Studies
25
Brian Seo
North Carolina State University
Good Governance within Urban Water
Management: Lessons Learned from
Singapore
International Studies
26
Benjamin Lane
North Carolina State University
The Failure of Cyber Deterrence and Its
Implications for Cyber Conflicts
Anthropology
27
Ashley Bryant
University of North Carolina Greensboro
A Replication Study of 2-D and 3-D
Methods for the Analysis of Vertebrate
Skeletal Morphology
Anthropology
28
Rebecca Woodward
North Carolina State University
Tourism Development in Sololá, Sololá,
Guatemala
Social Work
29
Linda Thomas
Fayetteville State University
The Quality of Life of Individuals in Adult
Daycare Programs vs. CommunityDwelling Adults
Social Work
30
Camille Peeples
Duke University
The Children’s Advocate: Evaluating the
Benefits of the Guardian ad Litem
Program for Children in North Carolina
Abuse, Neglect, and Dependency Courts
Social Work
31
Melissa Eudy
North Carolina State University
Suicide Awareness and Prevention
Sociology
32
Leigh Winters
Wake Forest University
Barbie Girl, Mattel World: A Case-Study
of Avoidance, Compromise, and
Accommodation in Corporate
Manufacturing Conflict
Sociology
33
Dianne Uwayo
Wake Forest University
Perceptions of the Causes of Intimate
Partner Violence in Kisumu, Kenya
Biological Sciences Genetics
34
Hui Yi Grace Lim
Duke University
Mapping Novel Anchor Cell Invasion
Deficient Mutants in C. elegans
How German museums present migration
and integration and how this affects
Germany’s public understanding of
multiculturalism.
30 | P a g e
Biological Sciences Genetics
35
Thomas Mitchell
University of North Carolina Greensboro
Do Differences in Seed Coat Mass Explain
Latitudinal Differences in Whole Seed
Mass in Plantago lanceolata?
Biological Sciences Genetics
36
Ellen Koerner
North Carolina State University
Characterization of the Phosphorylation
State of FOXQ1 and its Possible Role in
the Regulation of Hedgehog Signaling
Biological Sciences Genetics
37
Nicole Wehbie
North Carolina State University
Genetically classifying sexual behavior in
a diverse genera
Biological Sciences Genetics
38
Gabrielle Pittman
North Carolina State University
Generation of WNK4 knockout cell lines
with the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system
Biological Sciences Genetics
39
Molly Kuo
Duke University
Genomic mechanisms underlying
centromere assembly and chromosome
stability
Biological Sciences Microbiology
40
The Effect of Microgravity on
Pseudomonas fluorescence growth and
Pyoverdine Fluorescence
Biological Sciences Microbiology
41
Libni Subdias; Walter Patterson; Julia
Simpson; Ian Fennell; Stephanie
Lawson
University of North Carolina Pembroke
Michael Hu
Duke University
Biological Sciences Microbiology
42
Alyssa Ritchie
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Molecular Cloning and Characterization
of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1
Glycoproteins E (gE) and I (gI) from the
Neurovirulent Strain OHIO 2003
Biological Sciences Microbiology
43
Laura Strawbridge
North Carolina State University
Phenotypic and Genotypic Identification
of Microbes Isolated from Soil That
Exhibit Resistance to Relatives of
Common Drug-Resistant Pathogens
Biological Sciences Microbiology
44
Jeffrey Watson
Pfeiffer University
Isolation of Thermophilic Starch- Utilizing
Bacteria and Characterization of Amylase
Genes
Biological Sciences Microbiology
45
Leslee Dalton
North Carolina State University
Isolation, cultivation, and identification of
18 bacterial organisms from soil found to
possess antimicrobial capabilities
Biological Sciences Microbiology
46
Allen Scurlock
East Carolina University
Characterization of the Vaccinia Virus O1L
Protein
Biological Sciences Microbiology
47
Justin Jones
Saint Augustine’s University
Evolution of the MYB gene family of
transcription factors.
Biological Sciences Microbiology
48
Daniel Vinton
Wingate University
Bacterial Fertilizer – Isolation of Plant
Growth Promoting Bacteria for Use as
Fertilizer and Disease Control Agents
Biological Sciences Microbiology
49
Shayna Mooney
East Carolina University
Vaccinia Virus O1L Protein Localization
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
50
Ryan Siebens
Guilford College
Sex-typed Behaviors In Infant Lemurs
Phenotyping Virulence-Correlated Genes
of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus
aureus (MRSA)
31 | P a g e
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
51
Tre'Sean Hutchison
Fayetteville State University
Identification of PRDX-5 in bovine cauda
epididymal sperm
Biological Sciences Toxicology
52
Nacole Grant
Fayetteville State University
Formulations of seeds from Cannabaceae
inhibit feeding of flour by Tenebrio
beetles By Nacole Grant and Shirley Chao
Biological Sciences Toxicology
53
Rebecca Purvis
North Carolina State University
The Potential of Methyl Farnesoate, a
Crustacean Hormone, to Activate Key
Nuclear Receptors Implicated In
Metabolic Syndrome
Engineering - Mechanical
& Aerospace
54
Kris Wiedenheft
North Carolina A&T State University
Scaled T-Junction Cylindrical Model
Validation using Surface Evolver
Engineering - Mechanical
& Aerospace
55
Kim Nguyen
North Carolina State University
Modeling 3D Woven Composites
Marine Sciences
56
Rob Lampe
North Carolina State University
The Production and Fate of a Marine
Algal Toxin
Marine Sciences
57
Andrea Yammine
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Title: Influence of Beach Renourishment
on Sediment Grain Size and Fish Habitat
Utilization Patterns at Wrightsville Beach,
North Carolina
Marine Sciences
58
Paul Frye
Catawba College
The Effects of increased levels of CO2 on
Favia fragum
Marine Sciences
59
Alison Fowler
North Carolina State University
Seasonal Plankton Dynamics in Bogue
Sound, North Carolina
Earth Science
60
Pranav Arrepu
NC School of Science and Mathematics
Towards a Robust Representation of
Eastern U.S. Crustal Structure and
Composition for Applications in Seismic
Hazard Analysis
Earth Science
61
Jeffrey Ollison
North Carolina State University
Monitoring Unknown Discharge in Rocky
Branch Stream
Earth Science
62
Aaron Sugar
North Carolina State University
Sunny Honey: Partnering Pollination and
Preservation with Photovoltaics
Earth Science
63
Eric Burton
Appalachian State University
Vertical Structure, Melting Layer Heights,
and Antecedent Upstream Air
Trajectories Associated with Precipitation
Events in the Central Andes of Peru
Atmospheric Sciences
64
Christopher Waddell
Appalachian State University
Sources and Seasonal Characteristics of
ozone and PM2.5 in Great Smoky
Mountains National Park, Look Rock, TN
Atmospheric Sciences
65
Justine Stocks
Appalachian State University
Terrestrial and marine sourcing of methyl
iodide in the rural southeast
Education
66
Emily Feng
Duke University
Beijing Migrant Education under the "Five
Certificate Policy"
Education
67
Mikayla Wickman
Duke University
Worldwide Empowerment of Women
Engineers (WEWE)
32 | P a g e
Poster Session 4
Discipline
Poster
2:30pm -3:30pm
Presenter
Title
Economics
1
Sam Sherman
Wake Forest University
To Skip or Not to Skip: Do we perform
rationally on standardized tests?
Economics
2
Priyang Shah
Duke University
Examining the public discourse
surrounding Healthcare.gov: An
investigation into the media’s coverage
Business
3
Charles Michelin
Queens University of Charlotte
How educated are college students in
personal finance?
Business
4
Johannes Riemann
Queens University of Charlotte
Customer Research Study
Business
5
Tianna Barnes
University of North Carolina - Chapel
Hill
“What Now?” The Exploration of
Workplace Friendship Dissolution on
Individual Work Engagement and
Commitment
Psychology
6
Ryan Carter-Stanley; Michael Seegars;
Alix Fry
East Carolina University
Track It!: Impact of an Innovative SelfMonitoring App in Overweight Young
Adults
Psychology
7
Erin Hayes
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
The effect of cannabis use on reward
processing regions of the brain
Psychology
8
Brittany Reece
Fayetteville State University
Social Networking Use and Subjective
Well-Being
Psychology
9
Jevonne Riley
Fayetteville State University
An Analysis of Stress Levels in
Undergraduate Students Involved in
Organized Sports
Psychology
10
Erin Stiers
Pfeiffer University
Relationship Churning in Young Adult
Relationships
Psychology
11
Nourhan Elsayed
Duke University
Qualitative predictors of Treatment
Retention in Veterans with PTSD and
Substance Abuse Disorders
Psychology
12
Probing the Effect of Testing on Transfer
Psychology
13
Ernst Casimir
Duke University
Christina Thrower
North Carolina State University
Psychology
14
Kendyl Cole
Meredith College
Sensory Sensitivities of Young Adults with
High-functioning Autism and Asperger's
Syndrome: A Further Examination of
Sensory Processing Modalities
Psychology
15
Elliot Nauert; Abbey Allen; Sarah Luca
University of North Carolina - Asheville
Effect of Brain Training through
Lumosity™ on Flexibility in College
Students
English
16
Schnavya Bullock
Guilford Technical Community College
"Don't Let Them See You Sweat": A Visual
Rhetoric Analysis of 1940's Dryad
Advertisement
Assessing Self-Efficacy Among Police
Officers Handling Domestic Violence
Calls: Improving Outcomes for Police and
Victims Through Specialized Training
33 | P a g e
English
17
Loressa Mitchell Guilford Technical
Community College
"An Army of Devils": Puritan Attitudes
Towards Witchcraft and its Influence on
Attitudes Towards Women
Communication
18
Brandon Davis
Fayetteville State University
Are White and Black Athletes Being
Portrayed Differently in Six Major U.S.
Newspapers?
Communication
19
Adam Hoxie
Wake Forest University
Observing Parent-Child Purchase Related
Interactions in a Retail Environment:
Replication and Extension
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
20
Daran Wynn
North Carolina A&T State University
The Analysis of Sensor Systems within the
Living Environment of Dementia Patients
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
21
Maria Withrow
North Carolina State University
Rotational External Ring Fixator
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
22
Amir Milak
North Carolina State University
Comparison of Electron Beam Melting vs
Direct Metal Laser Sintering
Engineering - Mechanical
& Aerospace
23
Kevin Nicolle; Joshua Webster; Edward
Bryant; Tyler Martin
East Carolina University
Three-Dimensional Numerical Study of
Flow Around a Human Powered Vehicle
Engineering - Mechanical
& Aerospace
24
William Martz
North Carolina State University
Research at National Transonic Facility
Engineering - Mechanical
& Aerospace
25
Kevin Nicolle; Joshua Webster; Tyler
Martin; Edward Bryant
East Carolina University
Experimental Investigation of
Aerodynamic coefficient of a Human
Powered Vehicle
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
26
Alan Register
East Carolina University
Target Geo-Location Using Small UAVs
and Camera Systems
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
27
Erin Fenton
North Carolina State University
Wireless Communication System for Solid
State Transformer
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
28
Nichelle'Le Carrington
North Carolina A&T State University
Analysis of Innovative Purification
Methods of Drinking Water
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
29
Logan Cole
East Carolina University
Autonomous Aerial Vehicle Navigation
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
30
Jabari Stegall
North Carolina A&T State University
Design and Implementation of an Energy
Efficient Android Controlled Smart House
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
31
Pranav Kemburu
NC School of Science and Mathematics
A Computational and Statistical Analysis
Examining the Impact of Polymers,
Orientations, and Structure on Organic
Solar Cell Performance using a SemiEmpirical Monte Carlo Model
Engineering - Civil,
Construction &
Environmental
32
Anita Brown
Duke University
Permeable Porosity of Geopolymer
Cements
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
33
Ashle Page
North Carolina State University
Impact of Asymmetric Deformation on
Recrystallization in Spin-Formed
Structures
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
34
Mishal PB
North Carolina State University
Self-Folding of Polymer Sheets Along
Discontinuous Hinges
34 | P a g e
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
35
Robert Wimbish
North Carolina State University
Optimizing protein binding capacities in
PBT nonwovens by reducing diffusion
limitations
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
36
Hannah Gotsch
North Carolina State University
Electrochemical Super Capacitor
Electrolyte Solution Testing
Engineering - Biological &
Agricultural
37
Charles Parrish II; Alex Vinson; Justin
Lloyd; Lauren Byrne
North Carolina State University
Regenerating fertilizer and fuel via
anaerobic digestion of waste streams for
Martian life support
Food, Nutrition, and
Bioprocessing Sciences
38
Plant and Food Use for Hypertension
Management among Montagnards in
Vietnam and North Carolina, USA
Food, Nutrition, and
Bioprocessing Sciences
39
Branda Mlo; Vung Ksor; Lek Siu; Jalisa
Horne
University of North Carolina Greensboro
Sanjana Prabhu
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Food, Nutrition, and
Bioprocessing Sciences
40
Rocco Colucci
North Carolina State University
Study Techniques to Improve the
Understanding of Key Nutrition Concepts
Agricultural Sciences &
Economics
41
Tha'Mes McDaniel
North Carolina A&T State University
Characterization of Animal Housing Dust
from Diverse North Carolina Agricultural
Environments
Earth Science
42
Christopher Fuller
Appalachian State University
Characterization of the Atmospheric
Boundary Layer Using the Heffter
Technique and Micro Pulse Lidar
Earth Science
43
Rebecca Long
Appalachian State University
Earth Science
44
Russell Nasrallah
Appalachian State University
Earth Science
45
Laura Heinen
Appalachian State University
Characterizing urbanization of
Appalachian mountain streams using
streamflow parameters
Correlation of satellite-born and groundbased atmospheric aerosol optical depth
measurements
Quantifying Ambient Non-hydrologic
Nutrient Retention in Streams
Earth Science
46
Erik Anderson
East Carolina University
Investigation of the origin of the ~2.5
billion year old Valentines iron formation,
Uruguay, as insight to the redox
conditions of early Earth oceans.
Physics - General
47
Christopher Deal
Appalachian State University
Analysis of Polyethylene Films for use in
Duct Tape
Physics - General
48
Mariah Birchard
Appalachian State University
ASU Astronomy Outreach: Reaching Out
to the Stars
Physics - General
49
Fluorescence Decay Measurement
Apparatus
Physics - General
50
Alfred Scher; Crystal Patteson; Scott
Dickerson
Appalachian State University
Samuel Volstad
Appalachian State University
Physics - Nuclear, Particle,
Atomic, & Molecular
51
Jacob Robbins
North Carolina State University
A Couple of Different Coherent States in
the Quantum Harmonic Oscillator
"Healthy Futures Starting in the Kitchen":
Evaluating a childcare facility staff
training program targeting childhood
obesity in Mecklenburg County
Autonomous Dual-Axis Solar Tracker
35 | P a g e
Physics - Condensed
Matter (Electronic
Materials, Optics, Soft
Matter, Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
52
Ashlyn Rickard
University of North Carolina - Asheville
Epitaxial Growth of Graphene by Thermal
Decomposition of 6H Silicon Carbide
Through Infrared LASER Ablation
Physics - Condensed
Matter (Electronic
Materials, Optics, Soft
Matter, Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
53
Ama Agyapong
Elizabeth City State University
Non-destructive Measurement of
Through Silicon Via (TSVs) Axes Angles
using NIST-developed Through-focus
Scanning Optical Microscopy (TSOM)
Method
Physics - Condensed
Matter (Electronic
Materials, Optics, Soft
Matter, Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
54
Kayla Zimmerman
Appalachian State University
Automation of PSD Calibration and
Confocal Raman Spectroscopy
Physics - Condensed
Matter (Electronic
Materials, Optics, Soft
Matter, Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
55
Sam Migirditch
Appalachian State University
Automated Temperature-Corrected
Stiffness Calibration for Optical Tweezers
Physics - Condensed
Matter (Electronic
Materials, Optics, Soft
Matter, Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
56
Mithi de los Reyes
North Carolina State University
Effects of Crease Number on Hysteresis
of Folded Polymer Sheets
Physics - Atomic &
Molecular
57
Vincent Caminiti
University of North Carolina - Asheville
Methods of Data Analysis on Scanning
Electron Microscopy Images of
Synthesized Silver Nanowires
Physics - Atomic &
Molecular
58
Dylan Williams
University of North Carolina - Asheville
Modeling E&M fields within Periodically
Poled Ferroelectric Templates
Physics - Atomic &
Molecular
59
Dustin Roten; Joseph Peller; Tyler Dula
Appalachian State University
Production and Storage of Ne3+ for
Radiative Lifetime Measurements
Physics - Biophysics
60
James Dienst
Appalachian State University
Automated measurements of axial
positions in optical tweezers
Physics - Biophysics
61
Ghallia Kaouk
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Nerve Priming and Fatigue Studies of the
Rat Prostate Cavernous Nerves, In Vivo,
during Optical and Electrical Stimulation
Physics - Biophysics
62
Lysis of Stretched Fibrin Fibers
Physics - Biophysics
63
Tomas Lucioni
Wake Forest University
Gunnar Schettler
Appalachian State University
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
64
Charlotte Lee
Duke University
Hurdles to Herd Immunity: Distrust of
Government and Vaccine Refusal
65
Meredith Batchelor
East Carolina University
Staying on Topic: A Pilot Study of Global
Coherence in Older Adults
Raman Spectroscopy of Biofilms
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Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
66
Stefanie Engert
Duke University
Correlation between induced glial
protusions and morphology of synapses
at the Neuromuscular Junction in
Drosophila Melanogaster
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
67
Sophia Samir
East Carolina University
Behavioral Data Points Towards an Agedependent Morphine Tolerance caused
by Dopamine 1 Receptor Upregulation in
Dopamine 3 Receptor Knockout (D3KO)
Mice
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
68
Akshay Sankar
Duke University
Understanding the Molecular Recognition
of Anesthetics Using Computational
Procedures
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
69
Brandon Klapheke
North Carolina State University
Development of a cFos in situ
hybridization probe to measure neuronal
activation as a response to stress in
Thalassoma bifasciatum
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and
Behavior
70
Bryson Deanhardt
North Carolina State University
Behaviors After Sex?
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EXHIBIT PRESENTATIONS
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Discipline
Presenter(s) / Institution
ROOM 1
Title
Arts – Visual
Rachel Hockett
University of North Carolina Pembroke
Creating North Carolinian Flora + Flauna
Illustrations and Prints
Arts - Visual
Payton James
University of North Carolina – Asheville
Creating a Liminal Space with Paint
English
Meagan Keziah
University of North Carolina – Chapel
Hill
Prudence Person Scrapbook - Annotated
Digital Edition
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ABSTRACT LISTING
ALPHABETICAL BY LEAD STUDENT LAST NAME
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Student Author(s): Boubacar Abdou-Tchoussou, Senior, Electrical Engineering North Carolina
A&T State University
Mentor(s): Fatemeh Afghah, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Oral Session 1 , 9:45 - 10:00 AM, Room 4
Investigation and Evaluation of Performance Metrics in Dynamic Spectrum Access
Cognitive Radio (CR), a novel radio technology intelligent enough to autonomously change its
parameters configuration to adapt to its environment, increases the efficient usage of the
underutilized radio spectrum. One proposed technique to achieve this goal is Dynamic Spectrum
Access (DSA), a technique in which a secondary (unlicensed) user (SU) senses and accesses the
idle frequencies of the spectrum band owned by a primary (licensed) user (PU). The main focus
of this project was to evaluate the performance of CRs when performing DSA in broadcasting –
transmission to multiple cognitive receiving radios. Specifically, a C++ program uses open source
Liquid-DSP, Cognitive Radio Networks Testbed (CORNET) and Cognitive Radio Test System
(CRTS) software to test the performance of CR nodes while performing DSA. Performance
metrics such as rendezvous time, evacuation time, spectrum usage, probability of false alarm,
probability of detection and bit error rate (BER) are evaluated. To get higher spectrum usage and
lower BER, the choice of the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) bin size for each number of frames
per burst is crucial. For instance, 50frames/burst is optimal when using 512 FFT bins; resulting
in higher spectrum usage and lower BER.
Student Author(s): Joel Adams, Senior, Chemistry Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Khalid Lodhi , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 22
Challenges in Forensic Identification from UV-Degraded DNA
Genetic profiling proceeds through a four-step process: isolation, quantification, amplification,
and identification. Several environmental factors, such as temperature, relative humidity, and
various intensities of ultraviolet (UV) radiations, can degrade biological materials, obstructing
positive identification. This research attempts to discover the limitations in human identification
using degraded DNA by UV radiations. Radiations at wavelengths of 254, 302, or 365 nm were
used to degrade the samples through 20 minutes series of exposure. Assumingly, a greater ratio
of large: small autosomal DNA, allocated the Degradation Index (DI), means lesser the number of
STR markers qualified. This relationship should reveal a DI limitation for identification when
amplifying specific DNA amounts. Increasing amounts from 1 ng of DNA with known IDs were
amplified to discover the ideal amount of DNA needed to obtain a viable genetic profile. This
would also establish a maximum DI threshold, at which point these methods no longer yield
positive identification. Samples were quantified using Quantifiler® DUO and TRIO DNA
Quantification Kits under standard protocols. Amplification and genetic analyses were done
using AmpFLSTR® Identifiler® and GlobalFiler® PCR Amplification Kits with customized
methods as described.
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Student Author(s): Ama Agyapong, Junior, Physics Elizabeth City State University
Mentor(s): Victor Adedeji, Elizabeth City State University
Presentation: Physics - Condensed Matter, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 53
Non-destructive Measurement of Through Silicon Via (TSVs) Axes Angles using NISTdeveloped Through-focus Scanning Optical Microscopy (TSOM) Method
Copper-filled through-silicon-via (TSVs) connects circuits located at different levels of an
integrated-circuit chip. Functioning of an IC chip is affected by proper formation of TSVs which
are three-dimensional, high-aspect-ratio targets. Non-destructively measuring 3-D shape, size, or
formation of the TSVs with high-throughput is challenging using conventional tools. Presented is
a NIST-developed through-focus scanning optical microscopy (TSOM) method which uses
standard bright-field compound microscopes to characterize 3-D shape with nanoscale
measurement sensitivity. TSOM process takes and stacks multiple “out-of-focus” images at
proper focal positions, then extracts a vertical cross-sectional TSOM-image. Beneficial
characteristics of the TSOM-images leads to 3-D shape of any nanoscale/microscale target to be
analyze. TSOM method is utilized in a non-destructively manner with high-throughput to
determine angles of TSVs with respect to the surface. During fabrication, actual 3D shape of a
TSV could deviate from the desired shape leading to improper connectivity between circuits and
improper functioning of products. Deviation of TSV axes located in several dies across the wafer
were measured using TSOM-method. Preliminary results indicate that TSVs closer to the center
of the wafer have near normal axes. Deviation of TSV angles across wafer appears to be radiating
towards the edge of the wafer. TSOM-evaluated measurements need to be confirmed using
reference measurements.
Student Author(s): Ajay Ajmera, Senior, BS Biology, BA Chemistry East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Alexander Murashov, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Anatomy and Physiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM,
Room 1 Poster Number 10
Epigenetic Effect of Modified Diet and Exercise on Drosophila Melanogaster Metabolic
Phenotype
Obesity is a growing world-wide epidemic. Overweight populations are prone to a variety of
morbid conditions including diabetes type 2, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. The
catastrophic increase in obesity rates is largely attributed to sedentary life style and a poor diet.
Epigenetic studies show maternal obesity is a risk factor for metabolic syndrome in offspring;
furthermore, evidence suggests obese and diabetic fathers may also contribute to offspring
metabolic phenotype, so we questioned whether a modified paternal diet and exercise may
produce transgenerational effects on offspring metabolic phenotype using Drosophila
Melanogaster as a model because of its exponential population growth rate, making it ideal for
genetic studies. Specifically, this research sought to look at the effects of a modified diet and
exercise on whole body composition, development, cardiovascular health, and the change in
expression of various metabolic genes and microRNAs in Drosophila F0, and F1 generations. To
test this, male virgin flies were exposed to either 14 days of a modified diet, or control diet and
then mated with control virgin females overnight. Offspring were collected after hatching and
subjected to a normal or modified diet for 14 days. After 14 days, animals were analyzed for
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triglyceride and trehalose/glucose levels in F0 and F1 generations. Fruit flies were also subjected
to exercise for 14 days to measure effects on phenotype. Developmental data was also collected
for Drosophila every day until enclosing. Cardiovascular health was measured by beats per
minute and will be analyzed for arrthymias.
Student Author(s): Samthosh Alahari, Sophomore, Business Administration University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Mentor(s): Marschall Runge, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 6
Atherosclerotic Plaque Stability in Aged ApoE-/-/SOD2+/- Mice: The Role of Calpain 1 and
2
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality in developed countries.
Plaque made of cholesterol, fat, and fibrin builds up in atherosclerotic arteries, which may
partially or totally block blood flow causing myocardial infarction and stroke. Apolipoprotein Edeficient (ApoE-/-) mice are a model of atherosclerosis, with elevated cholesterol levels,
oxidative stress and a propensity to develop aortic atherosclerosis. Superoxide dismutase 2
(SOD2), a mitochondrial matrix enzyme, converts superoxide radicals into less toxic hydrogen
peroxide and protects against oxidative stress and atherosclerosis. Aortic atherosclerosis is
greater in ApoE-/-/SOD2+/- compared with ApoE-/- mice and increases with aging. SOD2
deficiency increases apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) in the atherosclerotic
fibrous cap which increases the risk of plaque rupture and thrombosis, causing myocardial
infarction and stroke. Calpain 1 and 2 proteases promote VSMC apoptosis. We observed
increased Calpain 1 and 2 expression in the aortas of aged ApoE-/-/SOD2+/- mice, which is
correlated with increased VSMC apoptosis in the fibrous cap and greater predisposition for
plaque rupture. A better understanding of this relationship might lead to new therapeutic
strategies to prevent atherosclerosis complications in aging.
Student Author(s): Rasheed Alhadi, Senior, Biomedical Engineering Duke University
Mentor(s): Cameron 'Dale' Bass, Duke University
Presentation: Engineering - Biomedical, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 55
Finite Element Mouse Model for Blast
With the widespread usage of effective thoracic body armor, an increasing number of soldiers
are surviving blasts that once may have produced fatal pulmonary injury. This has led to more
frequent blast-induced traumatic brain injuries (TBI). In vivo animal research models are
commonly used as surrogates to investigate the effects of primary blast on humans. Interspecies
scaling considerations are critical for ensuring the dose-response of animal models accurately
reflects those of real-world human exposures from IEDs. Coupling these experimental models
with numerical tools such as finite element (FE) modeling allows for tight control of boundary
conditions and observation of transient response during the blast event. Finite element models
are a powerful tool for calculating physical response to blast impact that might be difficult if not
impossible to measure experimentally. However, many finite element models currently
employed for blast simulation use the human head and few exist for animal models. Considering
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the lack of in vivo human blast experimental data, it is difficult to validate such human models.
This necessitates the use of animal FE models, which are more easily validated by in vivo
experimental observations and data. The purpose of the current study is to develop a finite
element model of a mouse head for blast impact simulations. The improved understanding of
human dose responses to primary blasts as predicted by in vivo models will contribute to the
creation of accurate injury criterion, the optimization of protective technologies, and the
potential improvement of clinical treatments.
Student Author(s): Tabitha Alverio, Senior, Psychology University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Sara Levens, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 16
Individual emotion processing differences predict future depression symptoms
There are many different reasons why individuals develop depression—the loss of a loved one
or experiencing a trauma. Yet why some individuals suffer depression and others are resilient is
unclear. The objective of the present study is to investigate whether biases in the way a person
processes emotions in working memory may underlie the development of depression versus
resilience. 160 participants completed two experimental sessions: In session one (T1)
participants completed an emotion working memory task (the emotion n-back task) and a series
of questionnaires assessing depression, stress and affect. In the second session (T2;
approximately four months later) follow-up depression, stress and affect were assessed.
Emotion N-back task performance was analyzed to elucidate whether engaging and disengaging
from emotional content in the task predicts later levels of depression. A repeated measures
ANOVA was conducted for each emotion n-back condition with T2 depression entered as a
continuous independent variable. Results reveal that time to disengage from positive content in
working memory predicts later depression symptoms. These findings suggest that assessments
of individual differences in emotion processing may be predictive of depression symptomology,
specifically difficulty keeping positive information active may be a risk factor for depression.
Student Author(s): Erik Anderson, Senior, Geology East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Adriana Heimann, East Carolina University
Presentation: Earth Science, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 46
Investigation of the origin of the ~2.5 billion year old Valentines iron formation, Uruguay,
as insight to the redox conditions of early Earth oceans.
Banded iron formations (BIFs) formed in a restricted part of Earth’s history approximately 3.81.8 billion years ago (Ga). Because they are chemically precipitated sedimentary rocks, BIFs
reflect the redox conditions of the oceans from which they formed. The wide range in Fe isotope
compositions (δ56Fe) of BIFs, from positive to largely negative, and the negative values of iron
carbonates (siderite and ankerite) in BIFs has been interpreted to be the result of cycling of Fe
by anaerobic dissimilatory iron reducing (DIR) bacteria. Along with iron isotope compositions,
rare earth element (REE) concentrations in the rock record are needed to correlate the existence
of iron-reducing bacteria to their anoxic marine environments. Positive cerium and europium
anomalies in normalized REE plots of BIFs indicate an anoxic and reduced state of the fluids from
which the rocks formed. The Valentines iron formation in Uruguay covers a surface area of 660
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km2 and is being mined for iron with an expected yield of 3-5 billion tons of resources. The
formation and surrounding rocks have been exposed to high-grade metamorphism and
deformation. Surrounding rocks consist of mafic dikes and intermediate and felsic composition
igneous rocks. Petrographic analysis is being used to determine the mineralogy, which will be
compared to whole-rock major and trace element compositions. The presence of magnetite,
pyroxene, quartz, and epidote was identified in thin section. Further studies of BIFs of different
ages and locations are needed to improve the use of iron isotope values as biosignatures for DIR.
Student Author(s): Ramiro Andrade, Senior, Biology Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Luke Dollar, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 13
Seasonal variations in residency of avifaunal communities on a rural North Carolina
university campus
Like many animals, birds are well known for engaging in migratory behavior. We seek to
determine if resident local bird fauna on the campus of Pfeiffer University in rural Misenheimer,
NC also exhibit these trends. Data will be kept on three distinct areas of our campus where birds
are easiest to observe. Within these areas, variables that play a role in the birds habitats such as
vegetation, environment, weather, and even animal and human interaction will be noted to
examine any diversity in microhabitat use of local avifauna. With these data providing a
necessary foundation, a relationship between presence/absence over time as seasons pass from
summer to winter will be examined. Preliminary results indicate that lakeside habitat exhibits a
greater abundance of active avifauna. As temperatures begin to change, data collection will be
ongoing to determine the potential effect of changing temperature on avifaunal community
variation and residence.
Student Author(s): Pranav Arrepu, Senior, Physics NC School of Science and Mathematics
Mentor(s): Jonathan Bennett, NC School of Science and Mathematics
Lara Wagner Carnegie Institute of Science;
Cemal Biryol University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill;
Presentation: Earth Science, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 60
Towards a Robust Representation of Eastern U.S. Crustal Structure and Composition for
Applications in Seismic Hazard Analysis
We present crustal parameter and receiver structure data for a seismogram data set in the
Eastern U.S. Our crustal mapping work relies on receiver function (RF) analysis. While such
studies have been performed on various regions within North America, detailed receiver
function studies to resolve the structure above the Moho have only been recently performed for
the Eastern U.S. Our work uses a data set of selected Transportable Array (TA) stations in North
Carolina. Initial crustal parameter results from 52 receiver functions (RFs) indicate a crustal
thickness of ~36.2 km and a Vp/Vs ratio of ~1.51 for the receiver structure beneath station
TA.V57A as well as a crustal thickness of ~27.7 km and a Vp/Vs ratio of ~1.68 for the receiver
structure beneath station TA.V58A. These parameters are used to create crustal models that are
iteratively modified so that computed seismograms from the model match observations. A
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parameter space search method is proposed as a means for obtaining robust results in a
computationally inexpensive manner. We assessed our model by the comparison of synthetic
and observed seismograms. Rresults suggest a layer(s) of high P-velocity above the Moho and
support the Grenville Orogeny hypothesis. We propose strategies to expand our data set to
study other portions of the Eastern U.S. in more detail and a means for determining ground
shaking parameters based on our shear velocity model. Crustal compositions can be determined
by computing layer-by-layer values of Poisson's ratio.
Student Author(s): Shelby Ashley, Senior, Economics Salem College
Mentor(s): Megan Silbert, Salem College
Presentation: Economics, Oral Session 4, 3:45 - 4:00 PM, Room 4
The Fiscal Impact of Florida's 2005 Land-Use Policy Amendment
Over the past 30 years, Florida has passed several amendments to the 1985 Growth Management
Act (GMA), one of the first land-use policies developed by the state. The 2005 legislation to
amend the original GMA intended to alter restrictions on development in areas outside of the
designated approved growth districts by allowing developers to pay their “fair-share”
contribution. The 2005 policies made major changes to school and transportation concurrency,
allowing developers create communities outside of the originally zoned school and
transportation areas. This paper estimates the econometric impact of Florida’s 2005 land use
policy. Using a panel data set from the years 2002 to 2008, the public-sector impact of the policy
is estimated using county-level government profits.
Student Author(s): Lauren Askew, Junior, Biology (B.S.) University of North Carolina - Chapel
Hill
Mentor(s): Henrik Dohlman, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Oral Session 3, 1:45 - 2:00 PM, Room 6
Optimization of a Fluorimetric Assay to Measure Autophagy in Yeast Cells
Autophagy is a survival mechanism utilized by all eukaryotic cells during nutrient starvation in
which the cell recycles proteins and other cytoplasmic components to the vacuole to degrade
and release. We are interested in determining whether autophagy is induced by the MAPKmediated osmotic stress response pathway and G protein-coupled receptor-mediated mating
response pathway. To address these questions, we are working to optimize a novel fluorimetric
assay to measure autophagic activity during periods of starvation, osmotic stress, and
mating. This assay utilizes a plasmid that expresses a pH-stable red fluorescent protein linked to
a pH-sensitive green fluorescent protein. When the cell undergoes bulk autophagy, and the
vacuole takes in cellular components via macroautophagy or microautophagy, the red
fluorescent protein retains its fluorescence, whereas the green fluorescent protein stops
fluorescing upon entry into the vacuole. The ratio of the fluorescence emitted by the two
proteins, which represents the amount of autophagy that took place, is measured using a
microplate reader. To induce autophagy, S. cerevisiae (budding yeast) cells are starved for
nitrogen, glucose, or both nitrogen and glucose, or stimulated with salt or pheromone and the
autophagic activity is measured using this assay after varying periods of time. Future directions
include adapting the fluorimetric plate reader assay to measure lipid droplet autophagy by
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linking the fluorescent fusion protein to a lipid droplet-specific protein.
Student Author(s): Teneika Askew, Senior, Management Information Systems Fayetteville State
University
Mentor(s): Pamela Jackson, Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Engineering - Industrial & Systems, Oral Session 1 , 10:15 - 10:30 AM, Room 7A
Fighting Fraud in Unemployment
As the unemployment rate continues to escalate in North Carolina and around the country, flaws
in the unemployment compensation process have come under increased scrutiny. Nationally,
this is a $1 billion problem that is largely attributable to weaknesses in the benefit disbursement
system. Last year, North Carolina lost $59 million as a result of unemployment insurance fraud.
In order to receive benefits, claimants use a journal format to report all interviews and
submitted job applications; the flaw in this journal-based system is that there is no mechanism to
substantiate the report. One solution is a mobile application that uses a cell phone’s location
services to validate job search claims. This mobile app tracks coordinates that are stored in a
database and can be verified through a shared Employment Security/Employer information
system. Inconsistencies in the weekly certification process are flagged for fraud and further
verification. With 11.6 million unemployed in the US and 145 million Smartphone users, this
application has the potential to transform the benefit disbursement process.
Student Author(s): Jessica Avila, Sophomore, Biology Nash Community College
Mentor(s): David Beamer, Nash Community College
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Zoology and Animal Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45
AM, Room 1 Poster Number 34
Snout-vent Length Variation in Mountain Dusky Lineages
Mountain duskies are medium sized lungless salamanders (Desmognathus) distributed across
the Appalachian Mountains. Historically, there has been debate about how many species of
mountain duskies should be recognized; currently there are six named species: ochrophaeus,
orestes, carolinensis, apalachicolae, ocoee, and abditus. These six species were delineated in large
part, based on molecular data and the morphological variation within each species remains
obscure. In the 1960’s Martof and Rose collected over 4,000 Desmognathus from twenty one
localities and made fourteen measurements for their specimens. To leverage their large
morphological data set, we collected a series of thirty salamanders from the same localities. To
place each of these populations in a phylogenetic context we sequenced both mitochondrial and
nuclear genes. To understand the morphological variation within each of the lineages we have
photographed and made the same fourteen measurements as Martof and Rose. Here, we present
a range wide molecular phylogeny that reveals the relationships of the six currently named
mountain duskies, as well as, a summary of variation in the snout-vent length in mountain dusky
salamander lineages.
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Student Author(s): Keshav Avva, Freshman, Physics Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Engineering - Mechanical & Aerospace, Oral Session 3, 2:30 - 2:45 PM, Room 4
Bottle Rocket with Drop-Away Boosters
The purpose of this experiment is to design a rocket that optimizes efficiency by minimizing
drag. This can be done by designing a rocket with fall away boosters that provide thrust and fall
away from the rocket after burnout. If three boosters are used in this experiment, then the rocket
will go approximately 50% higher than if no boosters were used for the same main rocket. The
rocket will be launched from a self-designed apparatus. The results of this experiment show that
a rocket with three detachable boosters flew 39% higher than a rocket without boosters.
Student Author(s): Krishnaveni Balakrishnan, Junior, Human Development and Family Studies
University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Mentor(s): Sudha Shreeniwas, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Oral Session 2, 11:00 - 11:15 AM, Room 5
The Prevalence of Alzheimer's Disease in America VS India
In this paper, I review information on Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), and focus on why the disease
has a higher prevalence in the United States versus India. I describe factors that are believed to
play a role in AD, including genetics, environment, hypertension, and diet. Because there is a
higher prevalence of AD in the United States versus India, scientists have considered the
differing diets as a possible factor. I explore polyunsaturated fats, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E,
which are all linked to brain health. I also examine turmeric, which is known to reduce
inflammation, and plaque buildup in the brain, associated with AD. These nutrients specifically
are believed to play a role in the development of AD. From the research that I have reviewed,
there seems to be a correlation between diet, and AD development. However, when gathering
research for this review, the availability of studies linking AD and diet was scarce, particularly in
cross-cultural populations. This suggests that further research on this topic is needed.
Student Author(s): Christine Baran, Senior, Biology/Pre-Med Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Luke Dollar, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Zoology and Animal Sciences, Oral Session 4, 3:30 - 3:45 PM,
Room 6
Vehicle Strike Rates Vary With Animal Species Involved Along a Rural North Carolina
Roadway
Roadbed mortality is widely known to have a significant presence on wildlife. Previous
assessments of roadkill failed to assess the effect of domestic animals in the path of the driver.
We seek to determine if the presence of more familiar animals to drivers will affect driving
patterns. In order to determine whether a driver feels more obligated to alter their driving to
avoid a domestic animal, both wildlife and domestic specimens were placed on a rural highway
and driving variations as well as car model were noted. Preliminary results indicate that drivers
of trucks are more likely to hit animals on the road, but there was no variance when comparing
the rate at which domestic and wildlife specimens were hit at the time. Data collection is ongoing
and may alter results after introduction of snake and bird specimens.
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Student Author(s): Alexandra Barbour, Junior, Biology Guilford College
Mentor(s): Melanie Lee-Brown, Guilford College
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Oral Session 4, 3:15 - 3:30 PM,
Room 3
Exploring the expression of corazonin receptors in the adult Drosophila brain
For many organisms across the Metazoa, hormone signaling is essential for the facilitation or
inhibition of numerous physiological and behavioral functions. The neuropeptide hormone
called corazonin that is found in Drosophila melanogaster, among other arthropods, is known to
be a signal for stress response and metabolism. Similarities to mammalian gonadotropinreleasing hormone suggest that corazonin may also play a role in reproduction. The purpose of
this study was to identify corazonin receptor expression in the Drosophila brain. Adult
Drosophila brains were dissected and corazonin producing neurons were tagged with green
florescent protein (GFP) using the GAL4-UAS system. The tissue was treated with cy3 red
florescent antibodies that are designed to bind to the corazonin receptor. The treated brains
were analyzed with confocal microscopy. The staining results revealed that corazonin neurons
and receptors are colocalized, which is consistent with autocrine signaling. This result may
correlate to corazonin affecting its own production. Further investigation will help in
determining the entire signaling pathway and full function of this neuropeptide in Drosophila.
Student Author(s): Tianna Barnes, Senior, Psychology and Gender Studies University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Mentor(s): Shimul Melwani, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: Business, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 5
“What Now?” The Exploration of Workplace Friendship Dissolution on Individual Work
Engagement and Commitment
When studying friendships in business organizations, researchers have mainly focused on how
people develop and maintain their relationships. Our project theoretically extends this research
by exploring the role of friendship dissolution in business organizations. We explore the
consequence of dissolution on individual engagement at work, noting cognitive and emotional
mediating mechanisms between friendship dissolution and work outcomes. We surveyed 74
working individuals (45.3% male, 54.7% female; average of 11.12 (SD=7.70) years of work
experience) looking specifically at rumination and anger as mediators and burnout and
engagement as work outcomes. The results indicated that anger is a consequence of dissolution
that has a significant effect on engagement and burnout, whereas rumination does not.
Employees are likely to experience increased anger at dissolution resulting from personal, rather
than work-related rationale. An employee was also more engaged and less burned out at work if
dissolution was due to personal, rather than work related, issues. Personal problems were
identified as betrayal or non-work related issues. Work related problems were identified as a
friend being promoted, transferred, or quitting their job. These findings have theoretical and
practical implications for organization scholars because they illustrate the potential implications
of common off-task interactions on employee effort.
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Student Author(s): Meredith Batchelor, Senior, Communication Sciences and Disorders East
Carolina University
Mentor(s): Charles Ellis, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 65
Staying on Topic: A Pilot Study of Global Coherence in Older Adults
According to the Administration on Aging the population over the age of 65 is expected to
increase to 72 million in the year 2030. Individuals 65+ represent 13.1% of the population in the
year 2010 and that percentage is expected to increase to 19.3% in 2030. Many older adults
retain their expressive language abilities with age while others experience difficulty. One area
that has received little attention is global coherence or the ability to stay on topic. It is unclear if
this important skill is impacted in older adults. The purpose of this research was to examine the
influence of aging on global coherence during discourse production. Eight older adults (age
≥70) absent of dementia and with normal expressive language functioning participated in this
research. Two minute samples were elicited from each participant describing a “typical
day”. Samples were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Each sample was divided into
individual communication units for an evaluation of global coherence using a five point
scale. Mean global coherence ratings were calculated. Assuming participants started on topic
(score of 5) our results showed that global coherence declined over time during the two minute
sample to a mean of 4.1 during the first minute and 3.65 in the second minute (x2 = 8.897;
p=.012). These findings indicate a temporal effect on global coherence in older adults as staying
on topic during conversation may decline with age.
Student Author(s): Cherese Beatty, Senior, Exercise Physiology East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Ethan Anderson, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number
64
Therapeutic Targeting of Reactive Aldehydes Mitigates Liver Steatosis and Cardiac
Remodeling in Obese/Insulin-Resistant Mice
Obesity and its accompanying metabolic syndrome has become an epidemic in the United States.
Western-style diets containing high levels of fat and sugar lead to lipid peroxidation and the
subsequent production of highly reactive lipid-derived aldehydes, a causative factor in
cardiovascular disease and diabetes. To investigate whether these reactive aldehydes play a
causal role in liver steatosis and cardiac remodeling in obesity, male wild-type (WT) and
Glutathione Peroxidase 4-deficient (GPx4+/-) mice were fed a high fat, high sucrose (HFHS) diet
for 16 weeks. A cohort of WT and GPx4+/- mice on the HFHS diet were also given FL-926-16 (45
mg/kg daily in drinking water), a novel aldehyde-scavenging compound, for the final 8 weeks of
the diet. GPX4+/- mice on the HFHS diet displayed markedly greater insulin resistance, liver
steatosis and cardiac fibrosis compared to WT-HFHS mice. FL-926-16 completely reversed
insulin resistance in WT mice, but only marginally in the GPx4+/- mice. FL-926-16 also
mitigated liver steatosis and cardiac fibrosis in both groups of mice on HFHS diet. These findings
support a causal role for lipid-derived aldehydes in a number of obesity-related pathologies, and
provide pre-clinical validation of FL-926-16 as a first-in-class, viable therapy for obese patients.
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Student Author(s): Sidney Bedsole, Junior, Biology and Neuroscience East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Tim Christensen, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 23
Mcm10's C-Terminal domain is involved in the formation of heterochromatin
Mcm10 has been shown to be involved in DNA replication and heterochromatin formation.
Research has shown differential Mcm10 expression within many types of cancer. As our
understanding of epigenetics grows, the importance of heterochromatin formation on genome
stability and gene expression is becoming more apparent. A thorough understanding of Mcm10’s
function in the formation of chromatin states could further our understanding of the
mechanisms underlying oncogenesis. This project focuses on mapping the portions of Drosophila
Mcm10 C-terminal domain that may be involved in heterochromatic function. To address this
question we have evaluated the impact of 20 different point mutations on heterochromatin
formation using position effect variegation (PEV). By utilizing a white-mottled-4 reporter line
(eye color reporter) we were able to assess the formation of heterochromatin
spectrophotometrically. Through these investigations we have discovered regions of Drosophila
Mcm10 that significantly impact the formation of heterochromatin. Furthermore, genetic
interaction studies have suggested that HP1 (Heterochromatin protein 1) functions upstream of
Mcm10 in the formation of heterochromatin. These results provide insight into the possible
correlation of cancerous states with altered Mcm10 expression, as improper chromatin
establishment can have serious impacts on genome stability.
Student Author(s): Shane Beeson, Senior, Environmental Technology and Management North
Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Nichols, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Plant Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 4
Potential for Short Rotation Woody Biomass Crops Relative to Soil Nutrients
The potential for short rotation woody biomass crops (SRWCs) in North Carolina on various
marginal lands are currently being evaluated across the state to determine if these sites can
provide growing demands for wood fiber. In this study, the above ground biomass of Populus
spp. was evaluated relative to soil nutrients and characteristics. Plant-based nutrients and
chlorophyll measurements were taken from the various different Populus clones in order to see
what impact these factors might have on tree height, diameter, and leaf area. One random soil
sample was taken at a depth of 10-15 cm from underneath each set of clones per block (total of
10 samples) and composited to form one representative sample for the entire block. Leaf
samples were collected by selecting the largest tree and smallest tree out of the four inner trees
in each block and compositing a sample of 7 to 10 leaves from various heights around each tree.
Chlorophyll samples were then taken in the same manner with 10 readings taken and averaged
per tree. High soil nutrient status at one site (Williamsdale) paralleled higher chlorophyll levels
for trees while low soil nutrient status at (Gibson) paralleled lower total chlorophyll levels for
trees.
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Student Author(s): Bryan Bennett, Senior, Computer Science Methodist University
Mentor(s): Terry House, Methodist University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Oral Session 1 , 10:00 - 10:15 AM, Room 4
Shielder: A Content Designer for Video Game Development
It is difficult, time consuming, and even ill-advised to hard code content information when
developing video games. Shielder removes the difficulty and time consumption of designing
content for video games by allowing the design of game content to occur under one roof. Shielder
provides a single location in which a user can create or adjust game data for balance or
development purposes. It allows the user to create content items with an adjustable user-defined
user interface for ease of access and absolute liberty over the content of their game. The designer
comes with a companion library that can be referenced to assist in the importation of the data
created from Shielder into the target video game. Shielder cuts down on game content design
time, allowing indie game developers as well as professional game developers to accomplish
more in a lesser amount of time.
Student Author(s): Kiera Benson, Junior, Pharmaceutical Sciences North Carolina Central
University
Mentor(s): Barbara Muller-Borer, East Carolina University
Presentation: Engineering - Biomedical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 56
Fluid Flow Dynamics: Modeling Media Properties During Electrospinning
Introduction: Electrospinning techniques produce nanofiber scaffolds with applications in
tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Nanofiber scaffolds are created by applying an
electrical charge to pull out random fibers from a solution filled syringe onto a collector plate.
Objective: The goal of this study was to model fluid flow of a solution moving through a syringe
during electrospinning and evaluate the change in solution viscosity due to flow rate and the
syringe/needle interface. Methods: SolidWorks was used to create a model of the syringe and
needle. AutoDesk Inventor and ANSYS Fluent were used to model fluid flow through the syringe
and needle at 0.1 ml/hr and 10 ml/hr. Rheological properties of a solution composed of
polyethylene oxide and beta lactoglobulin were measured with an AR-2000EX shear rheometer.
Viscosity measurements were used in the fluid flow model. Results: The simulation results
showed that as the solution was pushed through the needle from the syringe, the velocity
increased for both the slow and fast flow rates. Also, the solution exhibited shear-thinning
properties similar to the results obtained from the rheology tests. The results suggest that the
velocity at which the solution exits the needle is an important factor determining fiber formation.
Student Author(s): Brinnae Bent, Junior, Biomedical Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Alper Bozkurt, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Biomedical, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 53
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Quantifying Sleep with the Sleepiband
Sleep quality is linked to everything from memory to disease, yet a complete, quantifiable picture
of sleep physiology has continued to elude both researchers and developers in the commercial
health monitoring device industry. Previous sleep physiology monitoring systems have had
extensive limitations including cost, inaccessibility, and inaccuracy. The Sleepiband provides an
affordable solution through the combination of the sleep monitoring methods
electroencephalography (EEG) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy. Designed to be
energy efficient, this wearable nanotechnology will provide data in real time to provide a
comprehensive depiction of sleep cycles and patterns. The Sleepiband will promote research in
sleep physiology by offering an affordable alternative to polysomnography in addition to
providing personalized feedback to individuals with a commercial medical device. A commercial
medical device that accurately monitors sleep physiology would not only empower individual
users to utilize data about their own sleep and take control of their health but also provide the
statistics necessary to produce an all-inclusive picture of sleep physiology and its relation to
overall health and fitness. In an era dedicated to quantifying every aspect of health and fitness,
accurately quantifying sleep and providing user-friendly feedback will facilitate research into the
mysteries of sleep physiology.
Student Author(s): Thomas Benton, Senior, Physics University of North Carolina - Asheville
Mentor(s): Brian Dennison, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Presentation: Physics - Astrophysics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 44
Fast Radio Bursts and Scattering in the Intergalactic Medium
The goal of this research is to generate a mathematical model to determine the amount of
scattering present in the intergalactic medium (IGM) and the scattering angles associated with
fast radio bursts (FRB’s). This research was prompted by a report (Thornton et al, 2013) of
millisecond radio bursts at cosmological distances. I used equations that incorporated general
relativity to account for the scattering that occurs over intergalactic distances. Built into those
equations were ideas that reflected the expansion of the Universe in the presence of both cold
dark matter and dark energy to try and quantify the FRB phenomenon. These equations were
programmed in Mathematica to evaluate the complex integrals that were generated. The data set
produced could eventually be useful to radio astronomers when dealing with observations of
FRB’s. This idea is very complicated due to the integration of the Universe expanding with
acceleration and the scattering that occurs within the turbulent intergalactic medium.
Student Author(s): Travis Berger, Senior, Physics (BS) with Astrophysics Option University of
North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Mentor(s): Daniel Reichart, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: Physics - Astrophysics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 43
Skynet Algorithm for Single-Dish Radio Mapping: Making the Invisible Sky Visible
Skynet, a network of robotic telescopes created by Dr. Dan Reichart, now has a new telescope in
its arsenal: a 20 meter radio telescope located at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in
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Green Bank, West Virginia. Because the Skynet telescopes were built to quickly image transient
gamma ray bursts, the network already has tools to analyze and reduce visible images with
Afterglow, a data analysis software developed specifically for Skynet. However, a radio version of
Afterglow did not exist, until now. With the help of Dr. Dan Reichart, a few procedures have been
developed to eliminate unwanted instrumental/environmental background structure and radio
frequency interference (RFI). Our data reduction algorithm is made up of four main
parts: individual sweep noise determination, background removal, RFI removal, and finally a
weighted modeling interpolation routine. Ultimately, this algorithm creates a reduced twodimensional image from the scan pattern (by interpolation) that the telescope traces on the sky
around the target object. After conducting research on other single-dish mapping routines that
use, for instance, basket-weaving techniques to remove unwanted contaminants, we believe that
our routine is notably more robust and preferable. Because of Skynet's massive exposure and
ease of use, this algorithm will give any Skynet user the ability to take background, noise, and
interference-free radio images of any object, effectively making the invisible, radio sky visible!
Student Author(s): Madison Bergstedt, Freshman, Global Studies Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Joe Bryan, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Philosophy & Religious Studies, Oral Session 3, 1:45 - 2:00 PM, Room 3
Religion and Impact on Immigration
Approximately 95.86 percent of the population in Central America is Christian, a majority of
these being Catholic. Immigrant’s faith is a strong factor in why they are choosing to come to
America. They believe God will guide them and, in a way, they are correct. Religion provides the
courage for many to make the journey. It also inspires church members to assist the injured, and
to provide food and other supplies to those they encounter along the train routes commonly
used by migrants. Religion not only impacts immigrants making the journey but also influences
the way this issue is handled in political situations. Many senators and others with political
power are affiliated with a religious group that impacts their decision. There are also religious
groups that have formed advocacy groups to promote their views on immigration. Depending on
their religion or denomination many can either strongly support immigration or condemn
it. Religion impacts everyone no matter his or her beliefs and plays a strong role in immigration.
Without a strong Christian faith providing the courage and motivation, there would be much less
immigration from Central America simply because many would lack the bravery and assistance
to make it.
Student Author(s): Giovanna Bermudez Quiroz, Senior, Biology Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Kristen Delaney , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 32
The Effects of Oxidative Stress in an Antioxidant Deficient Strain of Escherichia coli
Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and glutathionylspermidine synthase (GspS) are
enzymes that play an important role in managing oxidative stress in bacteria. In order to
understand the way GGT and GspS function, a kanamycin resistance cassette was used to induce
mutant strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli) with a single-gene knockout for the ggt and gspS
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genes. We hypothesized that Escherichia coli lacking GGT or GspS would demonstrate increased
sensitivity to H2O2 compared to the parental strain. To this end, we compared parental and
mutant strains’ ability to survive in the presence of increasing concentrations of hydrogen
peroxide (H2O2). Strains were plated on LB medium and then a 7.0 mm paper disc saturated
with 7.0 ?L of H2O2 (0% - 20%) was applied to the medium and incubated overnight. The zone
of inhibition surrounding the disc was measured. There was no change in the size of the zone of
inhibition when comparing the parental strain to either single-gene knockout. We concluded
from this study that Escherichia coli is able to compensate for the loss of GGT or GspS in mutant
strains tested in this study.
Student Author(s): Hannah Berry, Senior, Environmental Technology and Management North
Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Heike Sederoff, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 24
Recombinant expression of Cell Wall Invertases and Invertase Inhibitors from Camelina
sativa for Functional Characterization
Camelina sativa is a close relative to the oil crop plant canola, requiring low fertilizer and
nutrients, making it an excellent plant to study for biofuel production. Plants contain source
tissues that are photosynthetically active such as mature leaves, and sink tissues that are nonphotosynthetic such as seeds and roots. Source leaves produce sucrose, which is exported from
the cells via the cell wall into the phloem for transport to sink tissues. In an attempt to force
Camelina to produce higher seed yields, the molecular pathway involving the enzyme cell wall
invertase (INV) and its inhibitor (CWII) was genetically engineered to reduce expression of the
CWII. This gene knockout should increase the seed yield produced in transgenic plants by
increasing the sucrose transport to sink tissues. To demonstrate the function of CWIIs and INV,
genetic sequences from leaf cDNA were cloned into E. coli for recombinant expression. Colony
screening of recombinant genes was done in high volume to reduce genetic differences in the
sequences due to Camelina’s high genome copy number. The recombinant proteins will be used
to demonstrate the protein’s function as an invertase enzyme inhibitor. This work has been
funded by the Department of Energy.
Student Author(s): Gibea Besana, Senior, International Studies North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Carol Ann Lewald, North Carolina State University
Presentation: International Studies, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 24
Vocational Education and Training in the European Union: Driving Forces and Successes
This research emphasizes the relevance of vocational education and training (VET) in the
European Union (EU) and its potential to create jobs and equip individuals with necessary skills
in the twenty-first century. These EU countries view VET as a suitable alternative to college and
can further strengthen their workforce when they are integrated during general schooling or
while working. Countries of the EU have a highly pronounced “training culture” backed by
tremendous governmental support. Technological innovations and globalization have caused a
decrease in industrial jobs and made the service and technological industries flourish. As a
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response to these changes, VET programs provide people with necessary skills that enable them
to compete in the economy. The evolution of governmental policies along with the existence of a
“training culture” in the EU demonstrates the relevance of VET in cultivating their overall human
capital and increasing employment rates. The breakdown of the individual systems in specific
countries will highlight their successes to validate how VET can continue to succeed in this ever
changing global economy. The research evaluates the factors that contribute to the success of
VET in Europe by examining the evolution of the goals, methods, and funding by the EU of
various VET programs.
Student Author(s): Anuradha Bhowmik, Senior, Women's and Gender Studies University of
North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Mentor(s): Jane Danielewicz, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: English, Oral Session 2, 11:30 - 11:45 AM, Room 8A
Between Two Selves: Reuniting Dual Cultural Identity Through Life Writing
Racism makes it difficult for ethnic minorities to reconcile their dual cultural identities. I am an
American, but I was born Bangladeshi. While growing up, I felt American, but I was treated as a
foreigner for being brown-skinned in a white, suburban South Jersey town after 9/11.
Hyphenated-Americans like me are pressured to negate their ethnic identities in order to avoid
ridicule and stereotypes; this erases personal cultural history. In this ongoing project, I’ve
created an anthology of poetry and memoir pieces to study how life writing can document my
efforts to reconcile two conflicting cultural identities. Caught in a cultural collision, I feared
rejection and struggled for acceptance from both American and Bangladeshi worlds. Writing
content is drawn from my post-9/11 experiences in America and from my first time traveling in
Bangladesh this summer. I reflect on how my desire to learn about my cultural history in
Bangladesh actually made me realize that I couldn’t claim either country as home. While
traveling in four regions in Bangladesh, I visited cultural institutions and engaged with locals and
family. However, across both cultures, skin color is used to discriminate and determine selfworth and cultural superiority. Likewise, assumptions about my identity, based on appearance,
were still used to designate me as a foreigner. My writing portrays the raw emotional truth about
racism, which erases the experiences of ethnic minorities like me. This project shows how dual
cultural identities are complex, and merely changing the cultural environment does not solve
this conflict.
Student Author(s): Mariah Birchard, Junior, Applied Physics Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): David Sitar, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - General, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 48
ASU Astronomy Outreach: Reaching Out to the Stars
The Appalachian State University astronomy outreach program utilizes the Rankin Science
Observatory and GoTo Laboratory (RSO), Dark Sky Observatory (DSO) along with the
departmental van for traveling off campus. There are several portable solar telescopes and
demos as well as a fleet of traditional nighttime telescopes. Typically, programs start with a
presentation explaining fundamental astronomy tips and concepts that later aid the public while
behind the eyepiece to understand what is being observed. These programs have been successful
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and due to their popularity, they continue to grow throughout the tri-county area.
Student Author(s): Anna Bishop, Senior, Exercise Science Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Andrew Shanely, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 1
Watermelon Supplementation to Improve the Plasma Antioxidant Capacity in Overweight
Postmenopausal Women
Obesity-related diseases are associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative
stress. Postmenopausal women are more likely to be overweight and under oxidative stress. The
purpose of this project was to determine the extent to which 6-weeks of watermelon
supplementation improves blood plasma antioxidant capacity of overweight postmenopausal
women. Subjects (59.2±1.11 y, 60.6±1.43 y; watermelon, control, respectively) were overweight
(86.6±3.13 kg, 81.5±2.74 kg) and were randomly assigned to either the watermelon or control
group. The watermelon group consumed 710 mL of watermelon puree/day for 6-weeks. The
control group received no supplement. The ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), select
carotenoids, and vitamin C were measured pre- and post-treatment period. Watermelon
ingestion did not alter FRAP, any the measured carotenoids, or plasma vitamin C (p>0.05, all).
However, within the watermelon group, significant positive correlations were found between the
change in FRAP and the change in total beta-carotene (r=0.436; p=0.020) and the change in
trans-beta-carotene (r=0.432, p=0.022). No significant correlation was found between the
change in FRAP and the change in vitamin C (r=0.214, p=0.284). Although 6-weeks daily
watermelon consumption did not improve FRAP in overweight postmenopausal women, FRAP
and plasma levels of beta-carotene were related within the watermelon treatment group.
Student Author(s): Kelsey Blauser, Senior, Psychology Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Don Poe, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 10
Learning Better and Learning Smarter: Connecting colored ink to memory
The study investigated whether color plays any role in remembering words a student has
studied. The participants consisted of high school students from Round Rock Christian Academy
in Round Rock, Texas, and students from Pfeiffer University in Misenheimer, North
Carolina. Each student was shown one list of 20 words printed in all red, all blue, all green, all
orange, or a combination of the colors. The students were then given one minute to study the list
of words before being read a short story as a distractor task. Finally, the students were asked to
write down as many of the target words as they could recall. The percentage of words recalled
accurately was the dependent variable. It was hypothesized that the students who received the
blue list of words would be able to recall the words more accurately than the students who were
given word lists printed in other colors.
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Student Author(s): Micah Bostian, Sophomore, Chemistry Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Dane Fisher, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Engineering - Materials, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 66
Catching the Waves: An Observation of Sound and Acoustics
Sound waves demonstrate signal fluctuation which is simple, periodic (repeating), and, in the
purest of sounds, essentially constant. The size and duration of a wave is determined by its
frequency, (unit Hertz, Hz), or the number of times the fluctuation occurs over a period, or a set
amount of time (when in Hz, per second). These are called simple periodic waves. Qualitative
observation of this research is based primarily upon the observation of sinusoidal (or “sine”)
waves produced in what is perceived as sound. When multiple frequencies combine, they form a
complex periodic wave; complex periodic waves can be analyzed for their fundamental
frequency (F0), the greatest common denominator of the different frequencies included within
the complex periodic wave. The wave patterns of complex periodic waves can be analyzed
through the generation of a Fast Fourier transform (FFT), a graph plotting frequency peaks from
a sample of sound that allows each frequency to be identified as the fundamental frequency
(typically the first noticeably high peak), background noise, or harmonics, induced frequency
resonances in a sound sample that occur when a pure frequency is present and are usually the
fundamental frequency expanded by a coefficient. In this experiment, sounds were generated
from a variety of instruments and tools. The audio generated was recorded, analyzed via soundediting software, and FFT graphs were developed from the data. These graphs were then
individually analyzed for the identification of fundamental frequencies and harmonic trends for
comparison across the different audio tools.
Student Author(s): Colleen Bramwell, Junior, Biology Saint Augustine’s University
Mentor(s): Mark Melton, Saint Augustine’s University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45
AM, Room 1 Poster Number 38
Do Sleep Disorders Increase The Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
Background: Approximately 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, characterized by
pauses in breathing during sleep, resulting in reduction of blood oxygen levels. The most
common treatment for sleep apnea is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) that restores
breathing and oxygen levels. We investigated whether there is an association between the
severity of sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease. Methods: We conducted a case-control study
among adults who had undergone a sleep study from 2007 through 2013. We defined a case of
cardiovascular disease as patients who experienced intervention, (either Percutaneous
Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty or Coronary Artery Bypass Graft) or death subsequent to
their sleep study. Two controls were matched to each case based on year of sleep study, age,
gender and other clinical factors. Severity of sleep apnea was defined based on level of oxygen
desaturation. Compliance with CPAP treatment was determined by two independent reviewers.
Results: Charts of 29 cases and 58 controls were reviewed. The mean age of patients was 61
years and 62% were male. Compliance with therapy was lower among cases than controls (69%
vs 81%, odds ratio 0.47, 95% CI: 0.16 -1.34). Minimum oxygen level was the severity measure
showing the strongest association with events. Conclusion: Our findings agree with previous
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research, suggesting that severity of sleep disturbance is a risk factor for cardiovascular events.
Compliance with recommended treatment for sleep disorders may help reduce the risk of
cardiovascular disease. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Student Author(s): Cadine Bramwell, Junior, History Saint Augustine’s University
Mentor(s): Bernard Luscans, Saint Augustine’s University
Presentation: Political Science, Oral Session 3, 1:45 - 2:00 PM, Room 7B
International Students without a Working Visa: Dilemma and Hope
There are several strict rules and regulations that govern the life of every international student
in the United States. With over 764,000 international students, these rules and regulations can
be extremely burdensome for students who are trying to successfully obtain degrees from U.S
accredited schools. Government programs, grant organizations, colleges and universities place
barriers on international students, keeping them from scholarship and internship opportunities.
This presentation will examine the quality of life for international students without a working
visa. International students who are unable to work in the United States suffer a poor quality of
life due to loneliness, economic hardship and a lack of valuable work experience. This
presentation will also look at how academic institutions with the support of the United States
government can help to make the experiences of international students a worthwhile
investment.
Student Author(s): Rebecca Brenner, Junior, Neuroscience and Philosophy Duke University
Mentor(s): Edward Levin, Duke University
Anthony Oliveri Duke University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45
AM, Room 1 Poster Number 39
Effects of Methylphenidate on Risk-Taking and Sociability in Adult Zebrafish (Danio
Rerio)
Non-prescription use of methylphenidate (Ritalin®), a drug that treats Attention Deficit
Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), is increasing. Methylphenidate is becoming more widely used,
especially among college students, because it increases concentration and promotes
wakefulness. However, the acute effects on risk-taking and sociability in non-ADHD populations
are not well characterized. Zebrafish offer an ideal model system because if behavioral affects
are observed, it is easy to study the mechanisms underlying this behavior. Zebrafish have cellular
reporter systems, continuous visual access and molecular interventions to help determine
critical mechanisms underlying neurobehavioral teratogenicity. Thus, we examined whether the
behavior of adult zebrafish changed in response to a 30 minutes immersion in a low, medium or
high dose of methylphenidate (2-mg/L, 4-mg/L, 8-mg/L). The zebrafish had impaired behavioral
function after being dosed with methylphenidate. In a predator avoidance paradigm, 4 and 8mg/L of methylphenidate caused less fleeing behavior than control fish in response to a threat
stimulus. A social shoaling task revealed that the methylphenidate significantly decreased
locomotor response to the social stimulus compared to controls. Importantly, these two results
indicate that acute methylphenidate causes an increase in risk taking behavior and a decrease in
sociability in adult zebrafish.
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Student Author(s): Jenna Brown, Junior, Biology University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Dennis Livesay, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Physics - Biophysics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 47
Flexibility Correlation Between Active Site Regions is Conserved Across Three AmpC BetaLactamase Enzymes
The bacterial enzyme β-lactamase confers resistance to β-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins
and cephalosporins. There are four β-lactamase classes, each with characteristic sequence and
structure properties. In prior works we have used our computational distance constraint model
(DCM) to characterize the physical properties of the class-A and B enzymes. The DCM predicts
thermodynamic and mechanical properties in an integrated way; consequently, quantitative
stability/flexibility relationships (QSFR) can be determined and compared across whole families.
Here, we compare the QSFR properties of AmpC (class-C) β-lactamase enzymes from three
different bacterial species. Perhaps the most useful of the QSFR metrics is the flexibility index
(FI), which quantifies flexibility along the enzyme backbone. As observed in other systems, FI is
well conserved across the AmpC enzymes. Cooperativity correlation (CC), which quantifies
intramolecular couplings within structure, is rarely conserved across protein families; however,
it is in AmpC. Specifically, we find that each structure is composed of a large rigid cluster,
punctuated by three flexibly correlated regions near the active site. The atypical evolutionary
conservation of these flexibly correlated regions and their prominent active site location
strongly suggest that the conserved dynamical modes are important for proper functioning of
AmpC.
Student Author(s): Marline Brown, Senior, History and English Meredith College
Mentor(s): Yaqin Li, Meredith College
Presentation: History, Oral Session 4, 3:00 - 3:15 PM, Room 8B
When East Met West: The Cultural Collision and Its Impact on Chinese Women from the
1930s to the 1950s
Transformation in twentieth-century China extended its reach far beyond the political and
economic realms. Social changes, particularly for women, revolutionized intrapersonal
perceptions and attitudes from the outside. Through the lens of education, behavioral
expectations, and apparel, this paper is focused on the impetus of Western ideals upon the social
landscape for women in China from the 1930s to 1950s. My research will incorporate selected
excerpts from Adeline Yen Mah’s autobiography, Falling Leaves, as well as journals, historical
documents, historiographies, and oral narratives to analyze the interactions between Western
and Chinese social conventions, and their impact upon women’s social status and their
experiences in the twentieth century. I also attempt to explore to what extent the changing
attitudes and perceptions towards women, as well as the cultural exchange between China and
the West in the twentieth century has influenced women in contemporary China.
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Student Author(s): Caleb Brown, Senior, Chemistry Guilford College
Mentor(s): Ruth Webster, University of Bath
Presentation: Chemistry - Inorganic, Oral Session 3, 2:15 - 2:30 PM, Room 8A
Fe Catalyzed Negishi Cross-coupling: Cost Effective Catalyst Simplification
Negishi cross coupling is a useful method for the formation new carbon-carbon bonds.
Traditionally, the cross coupling is catalyzed by a palladium metal complex. Although these
palladium catalysts can give excellent yields, the cost of palladium itself can become prohibitive
in synthesis. Recently, iron complexes have been shown to demonstrate the ability to catalyze
Negishi cross coupling reactions as well. Initially Fe-[dpbz] complexes were found to be active,
and subsequently Fe-[dppe] complex activity was observed as well. This is a interesting insight
considering iron is significantly cheaper, less toxic, and more environmentally safe than
palladium. The goal of this study was to identify more clearly the substrate scope for Fe
catalyzed cross coupling reactions and to simplify the ligand in the complex to provide for a
cheaper, more tunable, and easily synthesized catalyst. Our approach was to utilize the
phosphine product of the hydrophosphination of styrene with diphenyl phosphine, a relatively
cheap and simple reaction often used as a proof of activity for newly developed catalysts. We
were able to demonstrate a wide range of suitable aromatic coupling partners, as well as
demonstrate a high degree of tunability in phosphine proligands for the catalyst.
Student Author(s): Anita Brown, Junior, Civil Engineering Duke University
Mentor(s): Brett Tempest, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Engineering - Civil, Construction & Environmental, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30
PM, Room 1 Poster Number 32
Permeable Porosity of Geopolymer Cements
The development of geopolymer cements is significant both structurally and environmentally.
The use of fly ash and an alkaline activating solution to create a cement material not only
decreases the demand for the use of Portland cement, whose production emits harmful gases,
but also provides a beneficial use for the ash that would otherwise be disposed of as waste by
energy companies. Having a low permeability is an essential characteristic of durable
cementitious materials. If the permeability is high then deleterious chemicals, air, and water can
occupy the void spaces and accelerate deterioration. In this study, a series of geopolymer cement
pastes were prepared using different ratio of fly ash, alkaline activating solution, water, and
compactive effort. The pastes were evaluated by their compressive strength and permeable
porosity using a saturation test. The compressive strength of the cement was measured to
confirm that each mixture would be suitable for structural applications. The mixture, compaction
method, aging time, and temperature are manipulated to observe how these variables affect the
permeability and strength of the material. The results showed that the lower quantities of liquid
added to the fly ash resulted in higher values of the permeable porosity. Longer curing times and
higher oven temperatures also caused the porosity to increase. Longer curing times also caused
the strength to increase for each mix design and the greatest compressive strength was generally
found to occur at a temperature of 85°C. The compressive strengths were found to range from
700 psi to 1700 psi. These results provide a direction for further studies involving the properties
of geopolymer cement and how these properties can be optimized.
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Student Author(s): Ashley Bryant, Senior, Biology University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Mentor(s): Robert Anemone, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Anthropology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 27
A Replication Study of 2-D and 3-D Methods for the Analysis of Vertebrate Skeletal
Morphology
Traditional approaches to the study of the skeletal morphology of vertebrates have relied on
simple measurements of bones using calipers and other manual instruments. This approach is
often limited to two dimensional, linear measurements (e.g., lengths and breadths) that are
easily taken but may miss important aspects of biological form. Recently, vertebrate
morphologists have begun to use new imaging and printing technologies (e.g., laser scanners, CTscanners, 3-D printers) to create 3-dimensional virtual models of bones that can be digitally
manipulated and printed to create replicas of original specimens. These new technologies allow
us to perform the same measurements on a bone, a virtual in silico 3-D model, and a 3-D printed
replica. In this study, we compare the accuracy and precision of these three different approaches
in order to determine how successfully the virtual and printed models replicate the dimensions
of the original bone. We also demonstrate that biologically meaningful aspects of morphology
that are difficult or impossible to measure using traditional approaches can be captured on
virtual 3-D models (e.g., areas, volumes, and angles). Our study sample is a series of foot and
ankle bones from extant North American mammals (horse, elk, and pronghorn antelope). We
took a series of linear measurements on the bones, 3-D printed replicas, and digital 3-D models,
and calculated descriptive statistics for each set of measurements. We used a NextEngine
surface scanner to capture the 3-D data, and RapidWorks to create the digital 3-D models and
measure them.
Student Author(s): Melissa Bujnis, Senior, Biology East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Christopher Balakrishnan, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Zoology and Animal Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45
AM, Room 1 Poster Number 35
Genetic basis of coloration differences in domestic zebra finch
The zebra finch, Taeniopygia guttata, is a songbird native to Australia and the Lesser Sunda
Islands. The zebra finch is a widely studied organism because of its unique song learning ability
which makes it an interesting behavior model. There are many populations of the zebra finch
ranging from wild suspecies to captive bred varieties, and this diversity makes the species
particularly amenable to genetic study. Among these populations, there are a variety of different
color morphs expressed phenotypically. The purpose of this study is to test whether two genes
known to play a role in melanin synthesis, TYRP1 and SLC45A2, underlie differences in zebra
finch coloration.
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Student Author(s): Daniel Bullock, Senior, Biology - IPN North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): John Godwin, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45
AM, Room 1 Poster Number 40
Localization of differential neuron activity in zebrafish with distinct stress dispositions
using c-fos activity
Stress and anxiety are integral neurobiological constructs whose impact can be observed across
species and behavioral processes. Although these are naturally occurring and evolutionarily
adaptive responses, maladaptive behaviors can arise in cases of stress and anxiety disorders. In
this project we attempt to provide groundwork for use of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model
organism for research on stress and anxiety by identifying brain regions associated with these
processes. This work will serve as the foundation for future genomic and connectivity
investigations in zebrafish and potentially human based studies as well. This project builds upon
previous work in the Godwin lab relating to breeding lines of “bold” (low stationary behavior)
and “shy” (high stationary behavior) zebrafish. These lines of fish have been shown to
exhibit stereotyped behaviors--specific to proactive or reactive coping styles--in response to
standard stress behavior assays involving alarm substance, feeding latency and open field tests.
In this experiment we will utilize in situ hybridization to localize neuron activity in subjects
whom were exposed to a stressful stimulus (Open Field Test) prior to sacrifice. Hybridization
will be conducted using an RNA probe specific to the products of the immediate early gene cfos. Analysis of hybridization signal will be conducted specific to teleost brain regions with
known homology to relevant, stress-associated brain regions in mammals.
Student Author(s): Schnavya Bullock, Freshman, Business Administration Guilford Technical
Community College
Mentor(s): Jessica Labbe, Guilford Technical Community College
Presentation: English, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 16
"Don't Let Them See You Sweat": A Visual Rhetoric Analysis of 1940's Dryad
Advertisement
In this Visual Rhetoric Study Poster, DRYAD asserts that women can eliminate perspiration
problems with the right product. The purpose of this advertisement is to educate women about
the causes of perspiration, and how to prevent this problem. The setting of this AD was in the
1940’s. The Historical Context consisted of little knowledge in the causes of
perspiration. Rhetorical analysis Ethos, Pathos, and Logos is also used. Ethos means
credibility. This was displayed with the statement of being approved by leading skin specialist
and including scientific results to show the effectiveness of Jergens' product DRYAD. Pathos
means appeal to emotions. No woman wants to be embarrassed and turn off the man in their life
with perspiration. Logos means logical inductive reasoning. It involves the illustration of the
bacteria and how the bacteria were almost eliminated; and if you use their product, your
problem can be eliminated. Stereotyping occurred because it said what every "woman" should
know instead of what everyone should know. Text, font size, colors, and backgrounds play a
major role in advertisement. The larger the text the greater the emphasis stressed. This study
supports visual rhetoric. Ads of today and from the past still want woman consumers to be
informed how to prevent bacteria and perspiration so that they can reflect society's standards of
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feminine beauty.
Student Author(s): Eric Burton, Sophomore, Geography Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Baker Perry, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Earth Science, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 63
Vertical Structure, Melting Layer Heights, and Antecedent Upstream Air Trajectories
Associated with Precipitation Events in the Central Andes of Peru
The Central Andean region of Southern Peru is of great climatological importance. The
surrounding area contains tropical glaciers and ice caps that are significant sites for climate,
glacier, and paleoclimate research. The aim of this research is to characterize the vertical
structure, melting layer heights, and backward air trajectories for precipitation events in Cusco,
Peru, during the austral spring of 2014. We used data from a vertically pointing Micro Rain
Radar installed in Cusco during the period August to October 2014. The radar measures
reflectivity (dBZ) and Doppler velocity (m s-1), allowing for the determination of echo top heights
and melting layer heights. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Hybrid
Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory Model is used to run 72-hr backward air
trajectories for precipitation events in the region. Results indicate that precipitation generally
occurs at night with melting layer heights around 4000 meters. Echo top heights vary
considerably, with shorter, more intense events having greater vertical development, usually
over 7000 meters. Longer events are characterized by echo top heights of 6000 meters or
below. Trajectories associated with precipitation events were primarily from the northwest.
Student Author(s): Kelsey Butler, Freshman, Exercise Science Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Joe Bryan, Appalachian State University
Presentation: English, Oral Session 4, 3:30 - 3:45 PM, Room 7A
The Decision of a Lifetime
There is an estimated 4.1 million undocumented immigrant women living in the United States
(Shore 1). Most of these mothers left Central America to get a job in the United States and send
money to their children. The children left behind become psychologically scarred. They develop
mental illnesses such as separation anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Leah
Schmalzbauer stated, in an article titled “Migration, Separation and Family Survival” that “the
anxiety or emotional burdens are borne by children who are separated from their parents” (2).
Mothers leave the drugs, gangs, poverty, and murderous streets of their home to bring their
children to them in America. In Sonia Nazario’s book, Enrique’s Journey, she describes a young
boy’s dangerous, tormenting life while separated and reunited with his mother. Nazario wants
Latina mothers to “understand the full consequences of leaving their children behind and make
better-informed decisions. For in the end, these separations almost always end badly” (XXV).
Even though the family may fall apart, the emotional torture is worth their child’s possibility at
having a better life. As the physician, poet, and professor Oliver Wendell Holmes said, “Youth
fades; love droops; the leaves of friendship fall; A mother’s secret hope outlives them all”
(Nguyen). This hope drives these mothers to look beyond the troubles and hardships of the
present to the possibilities and successes that can come of the future.
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Student Author(s): Vincent Caminiti, Senior, Physics University of North Carolina - Asheville
Mentor(s): James Perkins, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Presentation: Physics - Atomic & Molecular, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 57
Methods of Data Analysis on Scanning Electron Microscopy Images of Synthesized Silver
Nanowires
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of silver nanowires synthesized through
ferroelectric lithography are analyzed in order to correlate physical aspects of the nanowires to
their growth conditions. In ferroelectric lithography silver is preferentially photo reduced at the
180 degree domain boundaries of lithium niobate substrates. A method of image analysis is
developed to acquire quantitative data to test the repeatability of obtaining certain wire
properties for given deposition parameters. Size, shape, spacing, orientation, and linear density
of the nanoparticles making up the wires are quantitatively measured. The spatial distribution
of wires and nanoparticles on the ferroelectric substrate as a function deposition times is also
studied. Theoretical models and results of computational analysis on the dynamics of the
particles during the deposition process are compared to experimental findings of this work.
Student Author(s): Lindsey Carr, Senior, Economics and Business Administration Salem College
Mentor(s): Megan Silbert, Salem College
Presentation: Economics, Oral Session 4, 3:30 - 3:45 PM, Room 4
How the American Lifestyle Results in Increased Expenditures on Healthcare With Below
Average Outcomes
This paper explores the correlations between increasing risks and expenditures and decreasing
outcomes in the United States health care market. Due to asymmetrical information, consumers
increasingly engage in hazardous behaviors, serving to exacerbate welfare losses. These moral
hazards include amplified stress levels, consumption of goods detrimental to health (for
example, unhealthy diets, tobacco or alcohol), and high levels of obesity. High levels of hazardous
consumption matriculate to the market as higher demands for health care services, escalating
existing market failures and health care expenditures. Using the Medical Expenditures Panel
Survey (MEPS) from the US Department of Health and Human Services, this paper develops an
econometric model to measure the strength of correlations between health care risks,
expenditures, and outcomes. Preliminary results support the hypothesis that risk and
expenditures are increasing concomitant to outcomes decreasing.
Student Author(s): Nichelle'Le Carrington, Sophomore, Electrical Engineering North Carolina
A&T State University
Mentor(s): Clinton Lee, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 28
Analysis of Innovative Purification Methods of Drinking Water
The analysis of different methods of water purification is the crux of our study, involving waters
from various sources in an effort to improve the quality of available drinking water. Testing of
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the dissolved minerals and gases as well as the microbial content is carried out on water from
different sources including atmospheric water and ground water. The evaluation factors that the
samples’ purity are determined by are IDEXX, hardness, acidity, turbidity and its pH level using
the Hach DR 3900 to gather the readings. These different source waters are assessed of their
purity before and after a process of multi-stage purification is performed in order to determine
the efficacy of the process in affecting the characteristics of the water. These characteristics are
valued as to their importance in generating top-quality water for human consumption.
Student Author(s): Ryan Carter-Stanley, Senior, Psychology East Carolina University
Michael Seegars, Senior, Neuroscience , East Carolina University
Alix Fry , Senior, Nutrition , East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Lesley Lutes, East Carolina University
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 6
Track It!: Impact of an Innovative Self-Monitoring App in Overweight Young Adults
Obese young adults have a lower life expectancy compared to their non-obese
counterparts. However, young adults do not respond well to traditional weight loss
interventions, particularly as it relates to the key concept of self-monitoring dietary
intake. Recent research suggests that weight gain, or loss, is linked only to a small number of
foods consumed daily. In theory, this would suggest that the development of a targeted selfmonitoring system, which focuses only on the recording of this small number of foods consumed
daily, could reduce the burden and result in increased adherence of monitoring food intake. The
purpose of the present pilot study is to develop a mobile app (Track it!) based on recording these
small number of foods to compare the effectiveness of this mobile app on adherence to selfmonitoring compared with either MyFitnessPal, a commercially available weight loss app, or a
wait-list control group. One hundred young adults will be recruited and randomly selected to
one of three groups for a period of one month. The primary outcome to be measured is
adherence to monitoring. Secondary measures include weight, nutritional change, body
satisfaction, and possible predictors of adherence, along with acceptability and satisfaction
measures. Design and rationale will be discussed.
Student Author(s): Ernst Casimir, Senior, Psychology Duke University
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Marsh, Duke University
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 12
Probing the Effect of Testing on Transfer
Testing has been shown to increase one’s ability to transfer learned information to new
contexts. However, little research has been done to parse out the specific components of
transfer improved by testing. We were interested in investigating the retention and application
components of transfer documented by Barnett and Ceci (2002). Does testing improve one’s
ability to apply knowledge to new contexts above and beyond retention? In the current
experiment, undergraduate students learned new material either by repeatedly reviewing or
repeatedly recalling the material. After a week delay, we assessed participants’ ability to
transfer their knowledge to new contexts. In order to distinguish between participants’ ability to
apply knowledge and their ability recall knowledge, a two-phase procedure was adopted from
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Butler, Godbole, & Marsh (2013). The current experiment shows that testing improves one’s
ability to recall information, and this improved recall leads to improved transfer of
learning. However, we did not find that testing improves one’s ability to apply
information. Thus, we concluded that testing does not improve understanding above and
beyond retention.
Student Author(s): Joshua Casper, Senior, Biology Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Luke Dollar, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 16
Do feral cats impact wildlife presence or abundance in a college campus setting?
Feral cats have been thought to cause environmental problems for native fauna and this issue
sparks constant and passionate debate amongst advocates and conservationists. To gather
information on their impact on a local scale, I collected data numbers on squirrel and bird
populations at three different locations to determine a relationship, if any, between feral cats and
native animals. Results did not support the hypothesis that feral cats would lower the rates of
native animals in this instance. An alternative hypothesis could be that feral cats do not have a
significant impact on remaining native fauna surrounding Pfeiffer University, perhaps because
most populations have already been lost or that habitats are so far below carrying capacity as to
be less useful for these measurement attempts. In addition, feeding of the cats on campus
occurs, which may also mitigate cats’ impacts on native fauna. Without prior numbers to
compare to, it is difficult to quantify their overall impacts.
Student Author(s): Reuben Chemmanam, Freshman, Statistics/Ecology Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Statistics, Oral Session 2, 10:45 - 11:00 AM, Room 8A
Statistical Trends in Ecological Footprints of Adolescents by Degree of Urbanization
Research in the last century has brought attention to the developing ecological crisis. With an
ecological deficit on the horizon, it is crucial to examine human-environment interactions. The
purpose of this experiment was to examine the effects of urbanization and modern lifestyles on
the environment using the ecological footprint. The results of the experiment did not show a
significant correlation between degree of urbanization and the size of one’s ecological footprint.
However, analyses did reveal several other significant results. There was a significant positive
relationship between television usage and one’s ecological footprint as well as between level of
parental education and eco-friendly habits in the home. Results also showed a significant
negative correlation between one’s level of environmental awareness and ecological footprint.
Finally, analyses suggest that individual’s perceived ecological impact is significantly lower than
their actual footprint.
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Student Author(s): Xinyi Chen, Senior, N/A NC School of Science and Mathematics
Mentor(s): Amy Sheck, NC School of Science and Mathematics
Korah Wiley NC School of Science and Mathematics
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Oral Session 4, 3:30 - 3:45 PM, Room 3
Vitamin D mitigates diabetic and oxidative stresses on kidney cells
Over 29 million people in the USA currently have diabetes according to a recent report by the
CDC. The elevated glucose levels of diabetes down-regulate P-glycoprotein, a membrane
transporter that eliminates cell toxins. In contrast, vitamin D has been shown to up-regulate Pglycoprotein activity in brain and intestinal cells. However, the effects of vitamin D on diabetes
have not yet been tested on the kidney, an organ that can be damaged by high glucose levels.
Therefore, my first experiment investigated the effects of vitamin D on canine kidney (MDCK-II)
cells treated with various glucose concentrations to determine if higher vitamin D
concentrations increased cell viability. Vitamin D also acts as an antioxidant and scavenges a
wide array of reactive oxygen species (ROS) including hydrogen peroxide, which down-regulates
P-glycoprotein activity. The goal of my second experiment, therefore, was to investigate the
connection between ROS (hydrogen peroxide) and vitamin D.
Results showed a significant interaction between vitamin D and glucose levels, where the
greatest positive effect on cell viability occurred at an intermediate level of vitamin D and the
lowest level of glucose. Also, as little as 12 ng/mL of vitamin D offset the effects of the highest
level of hydrogen peroxide stress, with increasing levels of vitamin D counteracting increasing
concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. These results indicate that vitamin D supplements may
have therapeutic effects on kidney cells by acting as an antioxidant and further testing should be
done with human kidney cells.
Student Author(s): Ge Cheng, Senior, Biology Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Lieceng Zhu , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Plant Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 6
External Application of OPDA Enhances the Resistance of Wheat Plants to Hessian Fly
Infestation
The Hessian fly is a major pest to wheat plants. In this research, we used resistant wheat
cultivar Molly to study the impact of 13-epi-12-oxo Phytodienoic acid (OPDA) on the resistance
of wheat plants to Hessian fly under heat stress. In the first experiment, we infested Molly with
an avirulent Hessian fly population, and the infested plants were treated with high temperatures
of 30ºC and 35 ºC for 3, 6, 9, 12, 24, and 48 h, respectively. We observed that nearly 100% of
Molly lost their resistance when heat stressed for 24 h and 48 h either at 30ºC or 35ºC. In the
second experiment, we externally sprayed OPDA solution on the foliage of Molly plants
immediately before the heat stress of 30ºC and 35 ºC for 24 h. We observed 30.6% and 51.5%
reductions in the number of susceptible Molly plants treated with OPDA compared to the plants
without OPDA application. Our results indicate that heat stress compromise resistance of wheat
plants to Hessian fly and the application of ODPA helped wheat plants maintain resistance under
heat stress.
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Student Author(s): Maureen Cheruiyot, Senior, Biology Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Shirley Chao, Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 27
The Effect of Hemp Seed Flour on Reducing Microbial Growth in Stored Products
The present study focused on the inhibitory activity of hempseed on microbial growth in stored
products such as flour. Contamination of stored products due to pests such as insects, bacteria,
and mold cost growers millions of dollars each year. As a result pesticides that can prevent such
contamination can be beneficial to the economy. Hemp has been shown to have antimicrobial
properties in some studies. Therefore, we tested the inhibitory ability of hempseed flour to
reduce growth of Pseudomonas sp. Various formulations of hemp seed flour were inoculated with
Pseudomonas sp. After 72hrs, an aliquot of each flour was added to nutrient agar. After 48hrs,
few microbes were observed in the flour mixture containing hemp seed flour compared to the
control group (free of hemp seed flour). Results suggest antimicrobial properties of hempseed
flour and possible use as a pesticide on stored products
Student Author(s): Raveena Chhabria, Junior, Biochemistry and Human Biology North Carolina
State University
Mentor(s): James Knopp, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 41
The Need for More Prerequisites for Biochemistry
Prerequisite courses are assigned to classes to provide a strong foundation in said material and
help with the understanding of the courses’ material. Principles of Biochemistry. BCH 451 is a
material intensive course and therefore having a strong foundation is a very key component for
success in the class. Apart from Organic Chemistry II, CH 222, there are no other prerequisite
classes to it. However, the course had many soft prerequisites, courses that are highly suggested
for a better understanding of the course. This research focuses on a students ability to perform
well in the class by testing their knowledge in one of these prerequisites, Microbiology - MB 351.
We collected the data of one Biochemistry class size, about two hundred people, and analyzed
their performance on an examination. When comparing the overall scores of the group who had
taken microbiology to the group that hadn't, the former group out performed. This suggests that
the soft prerequisites are important as they do aid in one’s performance in the class.
Student Author(s): Parth Chodavadia, Junior, Neuroscience & Global Health Duke University
Mentor(s): Ratan Bhardwaj, Translational Genomics Research Institute
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Anatomy and Physiology, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00
PM, Room 1 Poster Number 4
Wnt5B Ligand-Receptor Interactions In Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumors
Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (ATRT) are pediatric brain tumors with a poor two-year
survival rate of 10-15%. Because conventional treatment paradigms of surgical resection
followed by radiation and chemotherapy pose significant threats to children’s dynamically
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developing brains, identification of novel non-invasive therapeutic targets remains important for
improving survival in ATRT patients. In our preliminary data, we showed that Wnt5B mRNA is
significantly upregulated in ATRT patient-derived cell lines and tumor samples, suggesting that
Wnt signaling dysregulation might be involved in ATRT tumorigenesis and progression. Herein,
we identified Wnt receptors that might serve as potential targets for non-invasive therapeutic
intervention in ATRT. Three ATRT cell lines including CHLA-ATRT-04, CHLA-ATRT-05, and
CHLA-ATRT-06 were examined. Cell lysates from these lines were extracted and analyzed via
western blotting and immunoprecipitation. Western blotting indicated that Wnt5B was
detectable in all three untreated cell lines. This confirmed that Wnt5B mRNA overexpression in
ATRT translates to protein and suggested that Wnt5B might regulate ATRT tumorigenesis and
progression. Immunoprecipitation studies indicated that Wnt5B binds Frizzled-1 and Ryk
receptors in these three cell lines. These results identify Wnt5B as a possible non-invasive
therapeutic target for the treatment of ATRT.
Student Author(s): Kalysha Clark, Senior, Zoology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Allyssa Kilanowski, University of Arizona
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Zoology and Animal Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45
AM, Room 1 Poster Number 36
Perceptual Range of a Fossorial Rodent (Tamius dorsalis) in Fragmented Forests
Forests are becoming increasingly fragmented due to climate and anthropogenic changes. In
fragmented habitats, perceptual range, the distance at which animals detect habitat features,
could influence important life history processes such as dispersal. Our objective was to elucidate
the perceptual range of the cliff chipmunk (Tamias dorsalis) in the Pinaleño Mountains of
Arizona, which has been fragmented by recent fire and insect outbreaks. We placed animals in a
clear behavior arena, divided into two quadrants, and located in a 144 m wide meadow to record
an individual’s ability to detect habitat at two distances (34 m and 72 m) from a forest edge. We
found that 77.8% of the 9 individuals tested spent the majority of their time in the arena side
closest to the forest edge. At 72 m (equidistant from forested habitat on each side), we again
observed all individuals (three total) favored the same side of the arena, which implies
individuals were either unable to perceive both forest edges, or were reacting to stimuli other
than habitat cues. Our results indicate the perceptual range of cliff chipmunks is likely greater
than 34 meters. These data may be used to understand movement decisions during juvenile
dispersal of Tamias dorsalis in fragmented habitats.
Student Author(s): Antony Cochran, Senior, Environmental Studies University of North Carolina
- Greensboro
Mentor(s): William T. Markham, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Oral Session 2, 11:30 - 11:45 AM, Room 6
The B. Everett Jordan Reservoir: Diseased Lake, Diseased Policy
North Carolina's B. Everett Jordan Reservoir faces serious ecological challenges. Examining the
complex nature of the features and dynamics affecting the health of Jordan Lake requires an
interdisciplinary understanding of geography, hydrology, sociology, political economy, urban
and state political processes. Jordan Lake serves as the primary and emergency drinking water
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supply for hundreds of thousands of residents in North Carolina's eastern Piedmont, a wildlife
habitat preserve, and is designated as a public state park. Agricultural activities, rapidly growing
population and intensive land development within the Jordan Lake watershed are placing
increasing pressures on the lake, primarily by way of nutrient pollution and contributing to the
phenomenon of cultural eutrophication. Federal and state environmental standards dictate that a
comprehensive management plan be developed and implemented to improve the health of
nutrient impaired waterways. However, implementing a plan of this nature across a multijurisdictional region has proven challenging, at the very least. The competing interests of
disparate municipalities, economic development, and environmental conservation have made
managing the lake effectively nearly impossible. Recent changes in state government leadership
have also resulted in shifting priorities regarding environmental conservation and economic
development, along with controversial proposed solutions to Jordan Lake's problems that very
well might fail. This thesis and presentation examine all of these issues along with the theoretical
considerations of managing common freshwater resources, accounting for externalities and the
structures and systems in place to handle increasingly complex environmental challenges in the
modern era.
Student Author(s): Rachel Cohn, Freshman, n/a NC School of Science and Mathematics
Mentor(s): Amy Sheck, NC School of Science and Mathematics
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Oral Session 3, 2:00 - 2:15 PM, Room 6
Emerging marine disease: Variation in response to climate change conditions among
strains of Serratia marcescens
Ocean acidification is a major factor contributing to global climate change, impacting ecosystems
as diverse as coral reefs and kelp forests. The current study focuses on the effects of ocean
acidification on coral physiology. The golfball coral, Favia fragum, were exposed to 380 ppm, 700
ppm (predicted atmospheric CO2 level in 2100), and 1300 ppm atmospheric CO2 for 7 days. At
that time, oxygen consumption at 26 and 32 degrees Celsius in both light and dark conditions
were measured to calculate rates of photosynthesis and respiration, respectively. It is
hypothesized that if there is an increase in CO2, then the coral’s metabolism and respiration will
decrease. The results of this study will further our understanding of how the predicted increases
of CO2 will affect coral reefs.
Student Author(s): Kendyl Cole, Senior, Psychology and Spanish Meredith College
Mentor(s): Cynthia Edwards, Meredith College
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 14
Sensory Sensitivities of Young Adults with High-functioning Autism and Asperger's
Syndrome: A Further Examination of Sensory Processing Modalities
Numerous studies have been conducted on the sensory processing issues of individuals with
autism (Ben-Sasson et. al, 2009), mostly on the lower end of the spectrum. However, no study
has been done specifically on young adults with Asperger’s or High Functioning Autism. The
purpose of the current study is to examine the manifestation of sensory processing issues in
young male (n=11, ages 18-23) and female (n=3, ages 18-23) adults with Asperger’s or HFA
currently enrolled or planning to enroll in a higher education establishment. This study uses the
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Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile® to measure the range of sensory processing issues within
four sensory quadrants (Low Registration, Sensory Seeking, Sensory Sensitivity, and Sensory
Avoidance) and six sensory processing modalities (Taste/Smell, Movement, Visual, Touch,
Activity Level, Auditory). Scores showed more sensory processing issues in the LR Quadrant (X?
= 39.21, SD = 7.44) and SA Quadrant (X?=44.64, SD = 10.49) than neurotypical norms. Data
consistently showed that participants with HFA scored higher than those with Asperger’s
Syndrome in LR, SS, and SA Quadrants. Further analysis found a significant difference between
scores in the sensory processing modalities within all four sensory quadrants. The findings of
this study could provide a more concrete understanding of the complex sensory issues that
young adults with Asperger’s and HFA face every day.
Student Author(s): Jacob Cole, Junior, Applied Physics Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Brooke Hester, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - Biophysics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 46
Steady-state fluorescence
microspheres
anisotropy
measurements
of
fluorescent-dye-loaded
We perform measurements of steady-state fluorescence anisotropy with a constant intensity
laser of 405 nm. In steady-state fluorescence anisotropy, a fluorophore molecule is excited when
the polarization of the incoming excitation light is parallel to the excitation axis. Following a
delay known as the fluorescence lifetime τ, a molecule will return to its rest state by emitting
photons polarized along the instantaneous orientation of the molecule. The difference between
the polarization of the excitation light and the polarization of the emitted light is measured and is
proportional to the average change in orientation of the sample. Measurements of the
polarization difference are used to determine the average change in orientation, or anisotropy, of
samples including freely diffusing yellow-green fluorescent-dye-loaded microspheres with sizes
ranging from 0.51 µm to 6.2 µm. Experimental outcomes confirm that the custom-made steadystate fluorescence anisotropy optical system and analysis software are appropriately engineered
and optimized. These outcomes support the model in that for increasing bead size, the rotational
correlation time increases.
Student Author(s): Logan Cole, Senior, Electrical Engineering East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Zhen Zhu, East Carolina University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 29
Autonomous Aerial Vehicle Navigation
In August of 2014, the IEEE East Carolina University Branch participated in an autonomous
quad rotor competition hosted by the US Air Force in Dayton Ohio. The quad rotor had to
complete a mission by navigating autonomously in a GPS-denied environment while avoiding
obstacles. Navigation was achieved by using an optical flow sensor to estimate the ground speed.
The optical flow sensor takes consecutive images of the floor and measures the intensity change
at pixel-level. These pixel-level changes were then used to calculate the movement. The flight
control software interprets the velocity and accumulated it into position change in a
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corresponding North-East-Down frame. The movement measured by the optical flow sensor is
then compared against a desired position change, and the difference is used to drive the position
and attitude control loops. In order to avoid obstacles, the quad rotor was also equipped with
three narrow-beam SONARs that could detect obstacles within a combined 120-degree range.
Depending on which SONAR(s) were detecting obstacles and the corresponding distances, the
quad rotor would react accordingly. If an obstacle appeared to be in the quad rotors path the
flight control would set or alter internal waypoints to avoid the obstacle. However, it relied on a
stable position control loop and the position/velocity estimations from navigation, which will be
discussed in this work. In conclusion, navigation using only optical flow and narrow-beam
SONARs has it limitations, but it does provide a low-cost fully autonomous solution.
Student Author(s): Antwoine Coleman, Senior, History Saint Augustine’s University
Mentor(s): Bryan Booker, Saint Augustine’s University
Presentation: History, Oral Session 4, 3:30 - 3:45 PM, Room 8B
The Niagara Movement
By the turn of the 20th century, African Americans had been relegated to second class status and
segregation was legal throughout the United States with the 1896 Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme
Court decision. In 1905, 29 delegates led by W.E.B. Du Bois met in Niagara Falls, Canada to start
an organization that demanded better conditions for the African American citizens of the United
States. The Niagara Movement wanted voting rights, an end to segregation; better schools, health
care and housing; protested the discrimination that African American soldiers endured and
criticized the racial prejudice that was prevalent throughout the country. The Niagara Movement
that emerged from this meeting attracted 400 members and remained active for years. But this
movement would have to endure its advisaries and difficulties and by 1908, the organization had
collapsed.
Student Author(s): Katherine Collins, Senior, Biology Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Luke Dollar, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 12
Sometimes Even Bees Get the Blues: Pan Traps and relative capture rates in an
invertebrate community
We test selective attractiveness of different color pan traps to invertebrates, particularly at
different locations around Pfeiffer University to discover whether the color of the trap affects the
type of organism caught, and if those caught vary depending on location. This may be used as a
proxy to measure selective choice along a color gradient by local invertebrates. Three different
color pan traps were set up at three different locations around campus, and were checked on a
weekly basis. Results thus far have shown some selective attractiveness from Anthophila (bees)
toward blue traps compared to the other colors. Culex pipiens (gnats) and Araneae (spider sp.)
seemed to exhibit even occurrence across all colors. Further results being collected will be able
to opportunistically further determine whether there is selectiveness by other insects. Location
thus far has not shown to cause much of an impact on the prevalence or diversity of insect
collection. In conclusion, while most invertebrates on campus have not shown disproportionate
preference for any one shade, results have shown potential for some to do so.
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Student Author(s): Rocco Colucci, Senior, Human Biology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Sarah Ash, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Food, Nutrition, and Bioprocessing Sciences, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 40
Study Techniques to Improve the Understanding of Key Nutrition Concepts
The study habits of college students are a perennial concern in the United States. A primary
interest regarding students’ study habits is not only the amount of time spent studying, but more
importantly, the studying techniques used: quantity v. quality. Incorporating review sessions
into the curriculum that reinforce proper techniques is a viable solution. The most effective
nutrition review session is one that forces students to provide self-explanation and elaborative
interrogation in answering learning objectives. It engages the students by asking the “why”
questions associated with the material in order to obtain a deeper understanding. To determine
the effectiveness of the new review sessions, researchers conducted surveys following the tests
and review sessions to gauge student performance versus how they used the learning objectives.
The study method that proved most successful was the elaborative interrogation method, with
76% of students stating that their score reflected the effort they put in. This and additional
findings from this study will be used to teach proper studying techniques and improve the
overall effectiveness of future review sessions for Nutrition 301. As a result, student
comprehension of key nutritional concepts and test performance will both be enhanced.
Student Author(s): Taylor Comte, Senior, Biomedical Engineering University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Mentor(s): Ted Bateman, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: Engineering - Biomedical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 55
Comparing proximal tibia bone stiffness and structural efficiency in spaceflight and hind
limb unloading with a sclerostin antibody countermeasure
Hind Limb Unloading (HLU) in mice is used to mimic microgravity conditions by suspending the
mouse by the tail. In this study, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was performed on the proximal
tibia of mice from a HLU study mimicking the profile of space shuttle mission STS-135 (13-days
of spaceflight). This analysis allowed a detailed comparison of structural bone health between
HLU and spaceflight in terms of bone stiffness and structural efficiency as well as the response to
Sclerostin antibody (Scl-Ab). HLU caused a similar decline in BV to spaceflight (17%); however,
the reduction in bone stiffness caused by HLU (22%) was less than the reduction from
spaceflight (34%). Scl-Ab prevented the loss in BV and stiffness for both groups. There was a
greater difference in spaceflight structural efficiency compared to HLU. Additionally, trabecular
and cortical bone were analyzed independently by separating the FE meshes. Trabecular BV
decreased more from HLU (58%) than spaceflight (32%), similarly trabecular stiffness
decreased more from HLU (56%) than spaceflight (45%). These results suggest that the analysis
of BV or bone density alone is insufficient in describing bone health. The variance in stiffness
suggests that some differences between the models cause deviation in the remodeling process.
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Student Author(s): Ryan Cook, Senior, Chemistry Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Brett Taubman, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Analytical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 27
Summertime Measurements of Non-methane Hydrocarbons in Rural Western North
Carolina
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are important trace gases that can act as precursors to
ozone and aerosol formation in the troposphere. These gases react with oxidants such as ozone
to form an array of compounds including oxygenated VOCs (OVOCs), which can react further to
form ozone, or they can condense on to preexisting aerosols or nucleate to form new particles.
Certain VOCs can cause cardiac and respiratory complications while others are regulated toxic
compounds. In examining the effects of VOCs on regional chemistry and pollution events,
considerable uncertainties exist in our understanding of the relative contributions from different
sources and classes of compounds as well as their transport from other regions. The
Appalachian Atmospheric Interdisciplinary Research (AppalAIR) field site provided an ideal
location to investigate the sources and distributions of VOCs. During a two-week intensive
sampling campaign, hourly samples were collected from 15 June to 2 July 2013. The whole air
samples were analyzed in our laboratory using a 5-channel gas chromatographic analytical
system. A comprehensive analysis of the non-methane hydrocarbons distributions and
reactivities with hydroxyl radical will be presented along with an examination of the
implications for the sources and transport of these compounds to the rural western North
Carolina region. The larger range of reactivity at AppalAIR was dominated by isoprene during
this time period. The impact of local anthropogenic hydrocarbon sources such as liquefied
petroleum gas (LPG) leakage and fossil fuel combustion and evaporation was evident at this site
during several pollution events.
Student Author(s): Megan Cooper, Freshman, History (BS w/ Conc) Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Joe Bryan, Appalachian State University
Presentation: English, Oral Session 3, 2:15 - 2:30 PM, Room 7A
An Examination of the Immigrant Experience in Watauga County
The United States population has been consistently divided by two political affiliations –
Conservative and Liberal. No region in the United States so aptly portrays the effects of this
polarization than Watauga County, which lies nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of North
Carolina. Historically this area has been primarily right-winged, though the introduction of the
largely liberal 18,000+ population enrolled in Appalachian State University has created a
dichotomy among the constituents. Considering one’s opinions on social issues generally
correlates with one’s political standing, it is understandable that the aforementioned dichotomy
has muddled the social atmosphere of the county at large. Bearing in mind the growing
immigrant population that has recently immersed itself in Watauga County, this paper will
evaluate the degree an immigrant’s physical location within Watauga County influences his/her
experience. Additionally, this paper will take into account other factors such as education,
gender, etc…which contribute to an immigrant’s experience in Watauga County.
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Student Author(s): Jillian Correia, Sophomore, Economics Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Ali Sakkal, Wake Forest University
Presentation: Education, Oral Session 1 , 10:15 - 10:30 AM, Room 7B
A Study of School Meals: How Cafeteria Culture Shapes the Eating Habits of Students
Lunchtime can play a pivotal role in shaping student eating habits. This study investigated school
lunches in the United Kingdom to understand the attitudes and realities surrounding school
meals and student food patterns. Using a qualitative research methodology, this study was
conducted in three primary and secondary school systems in London, United Kingdom. In depth
interviews consisting of 14 headteachers, teachers, staff, and chefs and fieldwork observations of
approximately 830 students provided the data. The results yielded the following set of themes:
(a) school meals are publicly portrayed as healthful and nutritious, yet students’ diets do not
align with this advertising, (b) the level of importance placed on school lunch varies widely
among participants and generates inconsistent views concerning who is responsible
(government, families, caterers, or schools) for students’ eating habits, (c) role models (i.e.
teachers and chefs) present varying levels of student interaction and conflicting approaches
when monitoring eating habits. The latter finding was used to formulate three education
philosophies – the Removed Authority Role Model, the Accommodating Role Model, and the
Social Educational Role Model – concluding the Social Educational Role Model was most effective
at fostering an environment that encouraged healthy eating and positive behavior. For schools
looking to cultivate strong student-teacher relationships and facilitate healthier eating habits,
three recommendations were provided: (1) elevate the lunch environment by encouraging
proper dining etiquette, (2) get teachers eating at student lunch tables, and (3) shift the focus
from monitoring behavior to a teacher-student dialogue centered on food awareness.
Student Author(s): Taylor Courtney, Senior, Biochemistry North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Gavin Williams, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 44
A Chemo-Enzymatic Approach for the Production of Novel Terpene Natural Products
Natural products occupy a unique area of chemical space and can serve as biologically and
therapeutically active molecules and chemical building blocks. Terpenes, a particular class of
natural products, have been found useful as pharmaceuticals, flavors/fragrances, pesticides and
pigments. In nature, terpenes are synthesized from two building blocks, isopentenol (IPP) and
dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP), which are generated through two known biosynthetic
pathways. These two building blocks are stitched together by prenyltransferases and then
converted to cyclic products by terpene cyclases. While nature produces specific natural
products from a limited set of small molecule building blocks, synthetic biology approaches can
be used to generate non-natural terpenes using an engineered chemo-enzymatic pathway.
Terpenes modified with chemical functionalities not found naturally (i.e. halogens, azides,
alkynes, alkyls) could be used as chemical handles for synthetic diversification providing new
pharmaceutical candidates and biological probes. We have been investigating the promiscuity of
isopentenyl monophosphate kinase (IPK) which converts isopentenyl monophosphate into IPP
as a means to generate novel terpene precursors.
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Student Author(s): Joe Craigle, Senior, Applied Physics Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Brooke Hester, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - General, Oral Session 1 , 10:15 - 10:30 AM, Room 5
A feedback response system for the minimization of applied laser power in an optical
trapping microscope
We have developed a technique to expand the force measurement capabilities of a dual optical
trap system by implementing a Proportional, Integrating, and Derivative (PID) control feedback
enhancement algorithm. Using the calibrated voltage data obtained from a position sensing
photodiode, it is possible to track particle displacements with a resolution of a few tens of
nanometers. We have evidence that leads us to believe that by making small changes in beam
power based on the instantaneous bead position that the trap is more effective at confining a
trapped particle. In addition to this stabilization, the main goal of this project is to attempt to
minimize heating by applying less power to the sample chamber than would otherwise be
needed. A PID algorithm is applied to position information from our trap system and the output
of this algorithm controls the driving current and optical power of the trapping laser which
directly affects the stiffness of the trap. When studying the dynamics of biological systems it is
important to control the environment. If too much power is applied to the sample, it can
drastically affect the observations due to heating at the laser focus. Too much trapping power
can increase the ambient temperature and also has the potential to damage or destroy the
sample that is being observed. It is the aim of this project to confine a biological sample as stiffly
as possible while simultaneously applying as little power as possible.
Student Author(s): Erica Crockett, Senior, Biology Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Shubo Han, Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Analytical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 26
Flavonoids as Therapeutic Compounds Targeting Protein-Metal Interaction Involved in
Alzheimer’s Disease: Electrochemistry of Quercetin
Flavonoids are a group of antioxidant compounds occurring ubiquitously in fruits, vegetables
and beverages. As potent scavengers of excessive reactive oxygen species, flavonoids have
aroused considerable interest recently due to their potential beneficial effects to prevent
Alzheimer diseases and other diseases associated with oxidative stress. This research
investigated the electrochemical (antioxidant) process of quercetin (a flavonoid) in a phosphate
buffered saline solution (pH 7.4). A multistep electrooxidation process has been observed with a
strong adsorption on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and a weak adsorption on a gold electrode
(AuE). Following the first anodic peak (+0.11 Volt v.s. Ag/AgCl), a strong reactant adsorption
peak was found on GCE (+0.18 Volt v.s. Ag/AgCl ) which could not be recognized on a AuE. A
second anodic peak at +0.86 Volt (v.s. Ag/AgCl) was observed on AuE which could not be found
on GCE. Atomic force microscopy images showed the surface coverage of quercetin on both GCE
and AuE after soaking for 15 mins. The orientation of quercetin molecules adsorbed on a
hydrophobic GCE surface is different from that on a hydrophilic AuE surface. In the presence of
Cu (II), quercetin was found to have formed a 1:1 ratio complex with Cu (II), which attenuated
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the antioxidant activity of quercetin. The results help to understand the mechanism of quercetin
as an antioxidant and as a ligand in fighting oxidative stress at a cell surface.
Student Author(s): Erica Crockett, Senior, Biology Fayetteville State University
Brian Medoza, Sophomore, Chemistry, Fayetteville State University
Christina Young, Senior, Chemistry, Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Shubo Han, Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Chemistry - General, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number 49
Flavonoids as Therapeutic Compounds Targeting Protein-Metal Interaction Involved in
Alzheimer’s Disease: Electrochemistry of Quercetin
Flavonoids are a group of antioxidant compounds occurring ubiquitously in fruits, vegetables
and beverages. As potent scavengers of excessive reactive oxygen species, flavonoids have
aroused considerable interest recently due to their potential beneficial effects to prevent
Alzheimer diseases and other diseases associated with oxidative stress. This research
investigated the electrochemical (antioxidant) process of quercetin (a flavonoid) in a phosphate
buffered saline solution (pH 7.4). A multistep electrooxidation process has been observed with a
strong adsorption on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and a weak adsorption on a gold electrode
(AuE). Following the first anodic peak (+0.11 Volt v.s. Ag/AgCl), a strong reactant adsorption
peak was found on GCE (+0.18 Volt v.s. Ag/AgCl ) which could not be recognized on a AuE. A
second anodic peak at +0.86 Volt (v.s. Ag/AgCl) was observed on AuE which could not be found
on GCE. Atomic force microscopy images showed the surface coverage of quercetin on both GCE
and AuE after soaking for 15 mins. The orientation of quercetin molecules adsorbed on a
hydrophobic GCE surface is different from that on a hydrophilic AuE surface. In the presence of
Cu (II), quercetin was found to have formed a 1:1 ratio complex with Cu (II), which attenuated
the antioxidant activity of quercetin. The results help to understand the mechanism of quercetin
as an antioxidant and as a ligand in fighting oxidative stress at a cell surface.
Student Author(s): Dylan Cromer, Sophomore, Physicx University of North Carolina - Asheville
Mentor(s): Brian Dennison, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Presentation: Physics - Astrophysics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 45
Modeling Fast Radio Bursts in Stellar Coronae
Fast radio bursts are astronomically observed radio frequency bursts which display dispersion,
i.e. the speed of propagation is frequency-dependent and higher frequencies are detected before
lower frequencies. This dispersion is caused by propagation through plasma, however, the
location of this plasma is unknown. One model proposes that the bursts originate as solar flares
from galactic stars and experience dispersion within the coronal plasma present near the star. In
addition to the frequency-dependent delay created by plasma dispersion, these flares would also
encounter frequency-dependent refraction from the plasma, altering the path-length of the
radiation, and hence further shifting the arrival time of different frequencies. An r -2 corona
model is used to develop a geometrical treatment of the refraction. Using this treatment, the
variation in path length is computed as a function of frequency, given particular physical
parameters of the star and the radiation. These calculations will provide a point of comparison
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between the flare model and the data collected from FRB observations.
Student Author(s): Tayla Curran, Senior, Biology High Point University
Mentor(s): Allison Walker, High Point University
Presentation: English, Oral Session 2, 11:00 - 11:15 AM, Room 8A
The Healing Power of Narrative Medicine: Aiding Adults in Aging Creatively
Illness is an inevitable experience every human must confront. Narrative medicine and
literature serves as a mechanism to humanize illness. Writing and reading poetry can help
individuals express their opinions and explore the effects of illness in a therapeutic manner, and
have also been scientifically shown to strengthen the immune system function, lower blood
pressure, and decrease stress. Reciting poetry aloud regulates heart and breathing rates and
activates regions of the brain associated with memory. In this study, surveys were administered
before and after the workshops to empirically measure the participants’ sense of tiredness. HPU
Lifelines is a service learning class in which students directly interact with the community and
apply theory to real word situations with our adult-care community partners. Students facilitate
group poetry workshops, attempting to creatively engage participants and leave them with a
newfound sense of purpose and excitement. The workshops culminate with the creation and
reading of a group poem that everyone contributes to. The program serves as an integrated
approach to healing, allowing students to gain an understanding that every individual’s illness
tells a story. The effects on both students and participants are intertwined; the story of one
cannot be told without incorporating the other.
Student Author(s): Leslee Dalton, Senior, Microbiology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Alice Lee, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 45
Isolation, cultivation, and identification of 18 bacterial organisms from soil found to
possess antimicrobial capabilities
In 2013, an estimated 23,000 Americans died due to antimicrobial resistant infections. Many of
these deaths can be attributed to a class of pathogenic bacteria referred to as the “ESKAPE
pathogens”. The ESKAPE pathogens refer specifically to Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus
aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and
Enterobacter species and their increasing ability to “escape” treatment. Genes responsible for
resistance regularly transfer horizontally between strains as well as vertically during
reproduction. This is particularly problematic considering the ubiquity of ESKAPE bacteria in
hospital environments and the close association of various strains during colonization. The
increasing presence of antibiotic resistant strains can be considered a direct result of an overuse
of antibiotic medications in clinical treatment combined with a lack of new, effective antibiotics
for use when treatments fail. Antibiotic research and development, however, is currently at a
near stand-still. Considering that many antibiotics are produced from bacteria found in soil, the
goal of this experiment was to isolate novel, antibiotic-producing bacteria from soil utilizing
simple laboratory culturing techniques. From the soil samples cultured, 128 colony forming
units were chosen based on differing colony morphologies. A total of 18 isolates were found to
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possess antimicrobial capabilities.
Student Author(s): Patrick Darden, Senior, Biology East Carolina University
Jasmine G. Hughes, East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Ables, East Carolina University
Larry Hicks, Graydon B.Gonsalvaz, Georgia Regents University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 7
Investigating the role of SH3PX1 in the regulation of follicle formation in the Drosophila
ovary.
Changes in cell morphology can have a dramatic impact on cell function. One feature of many
migrating cells, including invasive cancer cells, is the formation of thin actin-based membrane
protrusions called filopodia; however, the molecular mechanisms controlling membrane
curvature during filopodia formation have not been fully described. SH3PX1 is a conserved
member of the Sorting nexin protein family, known to play roles in membrane remodeling and
endocytosis. The function of SH3PX1, however, remains largely unknown. We found that both
knockdown and overexpression of SH3PX1 in Drosophila cells resulted in the formation of
protrusions around the cell. Additionally, SH3PX1 mutant female flies are sterile, demonstrating
that SH3PX1 function is required for oogenesis. Our preliminary analysis demonstrates that
SH3PX1 mutant ovaries have defects in escort cells: triangular cells with long, thin filopodia that
wrap new germ cells and assist in their encapsulation by somatic follicle cells. SH3PX1 mutant
germ cells fail to be properly encapsulated, consistent with impaired escort cell function. We are
currently evaluating the mechanism of SH3PX1 function in escort cells and other cells that
extend filopodia, which may help us understand the biological role of the Sorting Nexins in
filopodia formation and membrane curvature.
Student Author(s): Brandon Davis, Senior, Mass Communication Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Almeida Eugenie , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Communication, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 18
Are White and Black Athletes Being Portrayed Differently in Six Major U.S. Newspapers?
A critical discourse analysis examining whether the lack of diversity in modern day sport’s media
has resulted in biased reporting. This is vital due to past research that shows mass media has
considerable power to shape the public's opinions and beliefs. 100 articles were collected from
six US newspapers over a six month span; 30 articles that feature a white athlete, and 70 that
feature a black athlete. Each article was manually surveyed and coded with the qualitative data
analysis software ATLAS.ti to find the total number of words/phrases with either a positive or
negative valence and emotivity. An important ethical code of journalism is to always report in an
objective manner, therefore it was hypothesized that there would be no noticeable difference in
the way athletes were covered . Results of the research display a larger percentage of articles
featuring white athletes were extremely positive, and in comparison, a larger percentage of black
athlete articles were extremely negative. Additionally, the majority of white athletes were
portrayed in the moderately to extremely positive range, whereas a majority of the black articles
fell in-between the mildly negative to moderately positive range.
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Student Author(s): William Davis, Senior, Statistics North Carolina State University
Jared Morris, Senior, Statistics, North Carolina State University
Kyle Pinegar, Senior, Statistics, North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Brian Eder, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Statistics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 40
What is the relationship between Atlantic Basin Hurricanes and those that impact North
Carolina?
Since 1900, NC has spent over $13 billion in real estate repairs from storms that have resulted in
167 total fatalities. Consequently, the purpose of this research is to examine the existence and
possible strength of the correlation between hurricanes in the Atlantic basin and those that affect
NC (pass within 50 miles off the coast). According to data from the North Carolina State Climate
Office, going back to 1851, there have been 73 tropical storms and hurricanes (4.20% of all
storms in the Atlantic basin) that have had direct landfall in NC. In addition, 289 cyclones
(16.63%) have been within 150 miles off of the coast of NC and subsequently affected the state.
NCSCO estimates that approximately 20.83% of all tropical storms and hurricanes formed in the
Atlantic basin affect NC which means on average 2.22 times every year. These hurricanes can
decimate states both financially and otherwise. Thus, the purpose of this analysis is to study the
year-by-year relationship between storms in the West Atlantic Basin and those that affect NC,
and examine the correlation between the two.
Student Author(s): Mithi de los Reyes, Junior, Physics/Mathematics North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Karen Daniels, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Physics - Condensed Matter, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 56
Effects of Crease Number on Hysteresis of Folded Polymer Sheets
Folded polymer tubes have previously been shown to display stress-strain curves with
hysteretic loops, similar to the elastic hysteresis displayed by shape-memory alloys. Here, we
aim to further isolate the folding dynamics by considering the compression and extension of
creased accordion-like sheets. We use an Instron to determine the effect of the number of
creases on this hysteresis. Using real-time video, we correlate the fold dynamics with the stressstrain curves. Finally, we identify several outstanding questions about the folding of polymer
sheets, particularly regarding the characteristic length scale of the sheets.
Student Author(s): Christopher Deal, Senior, Physics Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Tonya Coffey, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - General, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 47
Analysis of Polyethylene Films for use in Duct Tape
We are analyzing low density polyethylene (LDPE) films used as the base for duct tape. When a
small amount of proprietary release agent (<0.2%) is added to the LDPE films, the failure rate of
the films increases to roughly 20%. A film is classified as a failure if the adhesive for the duct
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tape does not adhere well to the film or the ink in the colorful designs on the duct tape does not
adhere well to the film. Surface tension tests and infrared spectroscopy analysis have not yielded
any useful information regarding quantifiable differences between the films with and without
the release agent, or given any insight as to why the failure rate increases when the release agent
is added. In this study, we report on atomic force microscopy analysis of these films, both with
and without the release agent, and speculate on the cause of the increased failure rate.
Student Author(s): Bryson Deanhardt, Senior, Genetics; Biology - IPN North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Lisa McGraw, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 70
Behaviors After Sex?
Prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster), a socially monogamous mammal, are a useful animal model
for understanding social behaviors such as aggression, pair-bonding, and parental behaviors. In
our lab, we use an outbred colony of prairie voles in order to assess variation in behaviors. The
purpose of our behavioral experiments was to characterize this variation, before and after
mating and to estimate heritability of these behaviors. Behavioral assays we employed were the
alloparental care test and resident intruder test. We hypothesized that we would observe
differences in these behaviors before and after mating. In sum, we find that alloparental care
behaviors generally increase after mating and aggression towards a same sex “intruder”
decrease after mating and that these behaviors show evidence of heritability.
Student Author(s): Sharon Dei-Tumi, Senior, Biology Greensboro College
Mentor(s): Deirdre Sommerlad-Rogers, Greensboro College
Presentation: Sociology , Oral Session 1 , 9:30 - 9:45 AM, Room 3
Fast Food Consumption As a Factor in Ghanaian Cardiac Health Decline
As countries transition from the third world to developing or semi-peripheral nations, they not
only face the ever-present childhood malnutrition, child mortality, and diseases associated with
poverty and disease, but there has been also an increase in obesity issues related to changes in
diet (Aleksopu et al., 2012; Prentice, 2005). Obesity is attributed to various risk factors such as
diet, genetics, lifestyle, age, and pregnancy (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2013). These factors contribute in
varying levels to obesity and obesity related issues such as cardiovascular diseases (Aleksopu et
al., 2012). The introduction of westernized processed food has been one factor that has led to
rapidly increasing health issues related to obesity in semi-peripheral nations. While India and
China are well known as becoming semi-peripheral nations, countries in Africa, including Ghana,
are also seeing themselves transitioning over the last ten years. One of these changes has become
the increase in access to processed foods, which dominate Western diets. This project will
examine the effects of increased westernized food consumption on Ghanaian cardiovascular
health and obesity and the possible future health trends based on analysis of research conducted
on China, India and South Africa, using data obtained from the Accra Metropolitan Assembly
(AMA) and interviews conducted over the summer in Ghana with the Ministry of Health officials,
Ghanaian physicians and patients.
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Student Author(s): Cory Delaney, Senior, Statistics North Carolina State University
Joshua Siever, Senior, Statistics, North Carolina State University
Allyssa Pearson, Senior, Industrial Engineering, North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Brian Eder, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Statistics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 39
PM2.5 Measurement Comparison Between Two Monitors
The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NC DENR) monitor air
and water quality in order to protect public health and welfare. They continually monitor many
different environmental variables including PM2.5, a pollutant comprised of small particles that
may cause irritation to the respiratory tract when ingested. The Raleigh Millbrook monitoring
site has two separate monitors to measure PM2.5 levels- a Federal Reference Monitor (FRM) and a
Beta Attenuation Monitor (BAM). As of November 2012, a discrepancy in the measurements has
been noted. However, both monitors have been examined and deemed operational. Using data
from July 10, 2010 to March 31, 2014, we will examine the inconsistency in readings and look for
possible correlations between meteorological variables and particle composition in order to
determine which factor(s) might account for the discrepancies.
Student Author(s): Joseph Denman, Sophomore, Chemistry Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Libby Puckett, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Oral Session 2, 11:30 - 11:45 AM, Room 5
Development of a Cardiac-Specific Hydrogel for Photo-Pattering Cardiac Tissue Constructs
Two-dimensional tissue models have traditionally dominated the field of toxicology. However, as
three-dimensional tissue modeling technologies emerge, it has become evident that they are
superior in toxicology and disease modeling because of their capability to mimic tissues in the
human body more accurately. In a model organ system, as in vivo, the heart is an integral
component, and one of many factors regulating morphology, differentiation and metabolic
processes of cardiomyocytes is the elastic modulus (G’) of the tissue and extra-cellular matrix
(ECM). Hyaluronic acid (HA) gelatin biomaterials form a supporting matrix that has been used in
numerous applications such as nerve, cartilage, liver, pancreas, bladder, and skin
engineering. Poly-Ethylene Glycol derivatives have also become popularized as cross-linkers
because they offer the ability to tailor elasticity of the overall hydrogel construct. In this set of
experiments, we demonstrate the use of various PEG cross-linkers combined with thiolated HA
and gelatin, with which we attempted to match the G’ value of the hydrogel to that of human
cardiac tissue. Second, we incorporated an acellular, cardiac pig ECM into the hydrogel, then
used a UV-activated PEG derivative to crosslink further. Ultimately, we attempted to create a
pseudo-synthetic environment that possessed the both the physical and biochemical factors to
mimic a cardiac specific environment and effectively recreate a cardiac organ in the lab.
Although beating was not observed, connexin-43 staining showed that the constructs did contain
regions of interconnected cardiomyocytes
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Student Author(s): Kunga Denzongpa, Senior, Biology Guilford College
Mentor(s): Melanie Lee-Brown, Guilford College
Sudha Shreeniwas University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 3
Comparative study of Quality for Prenatal Care of Childbearing Women in Sikkim, India
and the US
Prenatal care is a crucial aspect of women’s health especially in developing countries like India,
the world’s second-most populous country. There are substantial disparities in the facilities and
services available to patients between the Indian government-funded hospitals and private
hospitals. This study examines the qualitative differences in prenatal care that women receive in
each type of medical facility in the North Eastern Indian state of Sikkim. It also compares key
differences in prenatal care in Sikkim vs. the US. Data were collected using field research
methods including interviews of medical professionals, pregnant women, their husbands, and
their parents. The interviews included questions regarding the care provided by each type of
medical facility. Results shows that the facilities provided for pregnant women by the Sikkim
government funded hospitals exist but are unutilized, mostly due to the lack of government
medical professionals’ efforts in facilitating patients’ access to them. The high rate of illiteracy
among patients in government funded hospitals also plays a major role in their not receiving
quality services. The study reveals the lack of access to quality prenatal care for many women in
Sikkim, and gives insights on how to improve quality of care and public access to care.
Student Author(s): Domelia Dewitt, Junior, Biology & Chemistry University of North Carolina Charlotte
Mentor(s): Thomas Schmedake, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Chemistry - Inorganic, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 29
Synthesis and Characterization of an Electrochromic Bis(tolylterpyridyl)silicon(IV)
Complex
Electrochromic materials can change color upon exposure to an electric field, and they are of
great interest for color-changing windows, display technologies, and light-filtering
applications. A new bis(tolylterpyridyl)silicon(IV) complex has been synthesized and its
electrochromic properties have been determined. Silicon tetraiodide was combined with 4’-(ptolyl)-2,2’:6’,2”-terpyridine (ttpy) under an inert atmosphere in a sealed ampoule and heated
overnight at 120o C. Formation of the title complex was confirmed by H-1 NMR, coupled and
decoupled C-13 NMR, Si-29 NMR, EA, IR, and ESI-MS. Additional characterization was performed
by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and spectroelectrochemistry. CV showed that the complex features
several reversible reductions, correlating to the localization of electrons on the ttpy
ligands. Because of these ligand-localized reductions, the complex goes from absorbing nearly
wholly in the UV to absorbing in the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum – from
colorless to a dark violet.
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Student Author(s): James Dienst, Senior, Medical Physics & Molecular Biology Appalachian
State University
Mentor(s): Brooke Hester, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - Biophysics, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 60
Automated measurements of axial positions in optical tweezers
An optical tweezers (OT) system uses focused laser light to confine and manipulate nano- to
micro-scale particles. Trap stiffness is the quantitative measurement of the ability to trap a
particle. A position sensing detector (PSD) is used to track particle motion in units of Volts. The
process of calibrating a voltage to correspond to a particle displacement is time consuming and
needs to be repeated frequently, hence the need for automation. The equilibrium position, zeq, of
the trapped particle is described by two distances: the distance z’ between the chamber coverslip
and the center of the trapped particle as well as the distance zeq between the beam waist and the
center of the trapped particle. While monitoring the total voltage signal from the PSD, a
microsphere of known size is trapped and the coverslip is moved in known distances toward the
microsphere. After the coverslip has come into contact with the microsphere and sticks, the
coverslip is moved further until reaching a point far from the focus, while the total voltage on the
PSD is monitored. The procedure is then repeated using an identical microsphere initially stuck
to the coverslip. The total voltage signal with respect to axial location of bead in the position
sensing beam from the PSD for both the stuck and trapped microsphere are stored into arrays,
which are then compared to measure the two distances zeq and z’ to determine the axial
equilibrium position. The procedure is automated with LabView.
Student Author(s): Cameren Dolecheck, Senior, Computer Science North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Tiffany Barnes, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 63
Deep Thought 2.0: Rebuilding a Logic Proof Tutor for a More Effective Learning
Environment
Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS) are recognized as being valuable tools for student learning,
primarily because of their ability to tailor the learning experience to individual students. In the
Game2Learn lab, we have augmented the Deep Thought logic tutor with intelligent, adaptive
hints based on prior student work. However, this level of adaptation has not been sufficient to
help the wide range of students learning logic with Deep Thought. We have redesigned Deep
Thought to be more user-friendly, increase modularity, keep more accurate and complete data
logs of student interactions, and to allow for more types of exercises to scaffold learners into
being able to do full proofs independently. This redesign was successful in engaging students as
the drop-out rate significantly decreased when compared to the previous version of Deep
Thought.
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Student Author(s): Sarah Dorrell, Senior, Math High Point University
Mentor(s): Laurie Zack, High Point University
Presentation: Mathematics, Oral Session 1 , 9:30 - 9:45 AM, Room 8A
Grids, Games, and Rigidity
In graph theory, there are possible games relating to the rigidity of variously sized grids that can
be depicted in several forms. The game in question is a two-player game where players take
turns bracing a grid until one player adds a brace that makes the whole grid rigid. These grids
can also be portrayed through bipartite graphs and matrices. Using these methods, we will
investigate optimum strategies for various sizes of this game while exploring the relationships
between these forms of determining rigidity.
Student Author(s): Beverly Dosso, Sophomore, Chemistry Winston-Salem State University
Mentor(s): Siham Rahhal, Winston-Salem State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Physical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 33
Plant Oil GCMS
Seeds and leaves from various fruits, vegetables, and plants contain components that serve as a
resolution for many health and medical concerns. This research was conducted in order to detect
the nature of the components and their usages. Several oil samples were collected from plants
and seeds such as Rosemary leaves and Hawaiian Tea leaves using Soxhlet extraction. Upon
undergoing extraction, the organic solvents used to extract the oil samples (Ethyl Acetate and
Hexane) were then separated from the oil by utilizing rotary evaporation. The oil that was left
over was then evaluated through Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 19
components were found in the Rosemary oil and a total of 22 components in the Hawaiian tea
leaves. The results of this experiment demonstrate the chemical composition of each leaf and
seed and furthermore help to establish what these findings can be used for. Keywords:
Rosemary, Hawaiian Tea, Soxhlet, GC-MS
Student Author(s): Stacia Dwelle, Sophomore, Marine Biology University of North Carolina Wilmington
Mentor(s): Lawrence Cahoon, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 9
Does Fluridone at Recommended Application Levels Affect Microalgae (Phytoplankton
and Benthic Microalgae in Sediment) in Lake Waccamaw?
Hydrilla verticillata, an invasive aquatic weed infesting Lake Waccamaw in Columbus County, NC,
could potentially overrun the lake, which is home to endemic and endangered species.
Commercial herbicide Sonar 1, with active ingredient fluridone, has been applied to treat the
aggressive weed since summer 2013. We are investigating the effect fluridone has on non-target
flora, benthic microalgae and phytoplankton in the lake, using sediment and water samples to
measure biomass effects and to observe beta-carotene synthesis, which fluridone disables. We
measured biomass as chlorophyll a and measured relative concentrations of phytoene,
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phytofluene, and beta-carotene to look for fluridone's effects on carotenoid synthesis. Sediment
chlorophyll a concentrations decreased after 1 week with fluridone treatment. Recommended
application rate of 5 ppb fluridone drove a decrease in beta-carotene synthesis. Phytoplankton
showed no effects. Continued treatment of Lake Waccamaw Hydrilla with fluridone may result in
negative impacts on benthic microalgae, and therefore, treatment methods need to be
reconsidered.
Student Author(s): Farrah Elrahal, Junior, Psychology University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Sara Levens, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 13
The Interaction Between Family Support, Stress, and Rumination in Predicting Depression
Depression is an extremely common mental illness affecting more than 19 million Americans
each year. Depression is especially common in college students as college is a time of great stress
and drastic lifestyle change. Because of the recurrent nature of depression, depression may be
especially harmful during college. Several variables have been associated with depression,
including family support, stress, and rumination. The objective of the present study is to analyze
the protective effect of family support on the relationship between stress, rumination, and
depression. To analyze this relationship, participants completed surveys assessing depression,
family support, perceived stress, stress reactivity, and rumination. A regression test was run on
family support, stress and rumination and their interactions as predictors of depression
symptoms. Results reveal that family support and stress reactivity interact to significantly
predict depression—when an individual has high family support, they are not as reactive to
stress and risk of depression is lowered, whereas when there is low family support an individual
is more reactive to stress and their risk for depression is higher. These results suggest that
family support acts as a protective buffer against stress reactivity to lower the risk of developing
depression.
Student Author(s): Nourhan Elsayed, Junior, Psychology Duke University
Mentor(s): Mark Rosenthal , Duke University Medical Center Cognitive Behavior Research
Treatment
Program
Caitlin Fang, Duke University;
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 11
Qualitative predictors of Treatment Retention in Veterans with PTSD and Substance
Abuse Disorders
One obstacle in treating PTSD and substance dependence is high attrition from treatment.
Multiple studies show that treatment retention is an important predictor of positive outcomes in
treatment of substance abuse and dependence. Data for the present study were drawn from a
larger parent study investigating the efficacy of a novel virtual reality treatment for PTSD and
drug dependence. Participants (N = 16) all met SCID-I criteria for both PTSD and substance
dependence. The current study qualitatively assessed the relationship between self-perceived
changes achieved through therapy and treatement retention and completion. We hypothesized
that motivation would predict both number of sessions attended and treatment completion.
Analyses supported the hypothesis that change in motivation is a predictor for number of
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sessions attended and is related to treatment completion. Analyses also found that emotional
changes predict number of sessions attended and treatment completion. These preliminary
findings suggest that positive changes in emotion regulation achieved through therapy, may
promote therapy retention. Secondary analyses suggest that there were differences between
groups on qualitative outcomes of change. These findings suggest that the VR condition may
cause participants to endorse more change than the prolonged exposure condition, and that
these changes may lead to greater session attendance and likelihood of therapy retention.
Student Author(s): Stefanie Engert, Senior, Biology Duke University
Mentor(s): Nina Sherwood, Duke University
Jill Wentzell, Duke University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 66
Correlation between induced glial protusions and morphology of synapses at the
Neuromuscular Junction in Drosophila Melanogaster
It has been shown previously that null-alleles of spastin cause a phenotype characterized by an
increased number of synaptic boutons and additional branching at the neuromuscular junction
of Drosophila melanogaster compared to the wildtype. This phenotype can be suppressed by
deletions of various genes such as draper and the serine/threonine kinase pak3, which are
normally expressed in the glia associated with these neurons. These genes seem to be involved
in the formation of tubular projections from the glia towards the synapses and their deletion
correlates with a reduction of these glial protrusions. I am exploring whether overexpressing
Draper and Pak3 in glia leads to (1) an increased number of glial protrusions and if this is
sufficient to cause (2) an increased number of synaptic boutons in the neurons. I found that
overexpression of Draper and Pak3 does indeed lead to a neuronal phenotype with a
significantly increased number of synaptic boutons as compared to the wild type.
Student Author(s): Vernon Espinoza, Freshman, Biology Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Oral Session 2, 10:45 - 11:00 AM, Room 5
Antibacterial properties of Moringa oleifera extracts against Escherichia coli
The leading causes of premature labor is bacterial infection, namely Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
by Escherichia coli (E. coli). Antibiotics used to treat infection-induced preterm labor are either
unsafe, ineffective or associated with resistance. Thus, there is a need to develop alternative safe
and effective therapies. Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) has been used as a medicinal plant worldwide for thousands of years, however, its antibacterial properties against E. coli hasyet to be
examined. The present study evaluates the anti-bacterial properties of M. oleifera leaf extract on
non-pathogenic E. coli, DH51α, using diffusion assays at increasing dosages, and compares its
activities to equivalent concentrations of two commonly used antibiotics to treat E. coli-induced
UTIs, namely tetracycline and ciprofloxacin. Our results show that the 100% M. oleifera ethanol
extract exhibit stronger anti-bacterial properties against E. coli than tetracycline at equivalent
concentrations and about five times the dosage of M. oleifera 100% ethanol extract was needed
to simulate the antibacterial properties of ciprofloxacin. M. oleifera extract is able to limit E. coli
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growth even at the lowest practical concentration (1 µg). We conclude that M. oleifera has antibacterial activities that are comparable to the key antibiotic of choice for E. coli.
Student Author(s): Kraig Esswein, Senior, Environmental Science Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Chris Thaxton, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 11
Microphallus spp. Effects on Orconectes rusticus Feeding Behavior
The rusty crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) is an invasive species that has dominated the lakes of
Northern Wisconsin and other waterways since its release from its native habitat in the Ohio
River basin. This crayfish species has negative effects on the submerged macrophyte species of
lakes, in turn reducing the abundance and richness of macroinvertebrates and some species of
fish. A trematode parasite, Microphallus spp., has been shown to affect the rusty crayfish’s
natural behavior patterns. I investigated whether or not infection with Microphallus spp. affects
the feeding behavior of the rusty crayfish. Rusty crayfish were collected from infected and noninfected sites and dissected to confirm the infection statuses reported in previous years. More
specimens were collected from the confirmed infected and uninfected sites and were used in
behavioral experiments. Crayfish were placed in a controlled environment with six prey items
(live mayflies) for thirty minutes to determine their feeding behavior. Analysis showed
significant results that infected crayfish on average ate three times less often than uninfected
crayfish, indicating that the parasite likely affects the feeding behavior of the rusty crayfish in a
negative manner, reducing their consumption. This behavioral change could be attributed to
chemical signals released by the trematode parasites that alter the behavior of the rusty crayfish.
Student Author(s): Melissa Eudy, Sophomore, Social Work North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Willa Casstevens, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Social Work, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 31
Suicide Awareness and Prevention
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among college and university students, and is
associated with depression and hopelessness. For every completed youth/young adult suicide,
there are between one and two hundred attempts. This study looked at what students can do to
help with suicide awareness and prevention efforts at NC State.
Student Author(s): Emily Feng, Senior, Asian/Middle Eastern Studies, Public Policy Duke
University
Mentor(s): Helen Ladd, Duke University
Presentation: Education, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 66
Beijing Migrant Education under the "Five Certificate Policy"
This study examines the effects of Beijing’s “Five Certificate Policy," which targets Beijing
migrant students who live in Beijing but cannot enroll in public schools because their household
registration (hukou) is located in another city. Private, quasi-illegal “migrant schools” have been
started to provide education, of varying quality, for these students. However, in September 2013,
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in a continuing effort to prevent further migration into the city, Beijing imposed a demanding
series of five “certificates,” or paperwork, that each migrant student must complete to enroll in
the national education system. I visited eight migrant schools and one vocational school,
conducting 40 interviews with administrators, teachers, parents, social workers, activists, and
other researchers. Additionally, I collected demographic data on Beijing students, descriptive
data on Beijing migrant schools, and visual data of “Five Certificate” notification posters with a
Beijing-based NGO. Qualitative interview data was coded for content and treated as a literary
text to draw out major themes and conclusions, which were reinforced by quantitative data
analysis and descriptive statistics. Results show that the “Five Certificate Policy” greatly
increases the precarious nature of migrant education and legally shuts out migrant students
from pursuing higher education within China’s national education system. Moreover, it
exacerbates preexisting financial challenges faced by migrant schools and increases the political
sensitivity of migrant schools. However, as China launches a national urbanization initiative, new
opportunities are emerging for the national government to reform the hukou system and public
education system.
Student Author(s): Erin Fenton, Sophomore, Electrical Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Subhashish Bhattacharya, North Carolina State University
Richard Beddingfield North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 27
Wireless Communication System for Solid State Transformer
As the world technologically advances and society becomes more dependent on energy, superior
long term energy systems must be developed. The FREEDM System Center’s main goal is to
develop and implement a smart grid system that will advance the way Americans consume
power and provide clean energy for future generations. My current project, known as ARM
Communications for Green Energy Hub, focuses on developing a communication system between
ARM Boards and DELFINO boards that controls and monitors various power system devices. I
am specifically designing a communication system that will oversee the solid state transformer
at the FREEDM Center. So far, a lot of time has been put into researching and learning about ARM
and DELFINO boards in order to come up with the most efficient way to set up the system. I have
successfully set up linux onto an ARM Board and am starting to develop code through Eclipse.
Once the communication system is set up, researchers at FREEDM will be able to access data
from the solid state transformer with greater ease.
Student Author(s): Caitlin Ferguson, Junior, Chemisty High Point University
Mentor(s): Brian Augustine, High Point University
Presentation: Chemistry - Materials, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 31
Adhesion of Vapor Deposited Gold Films onto Spun-Cast Polymer Thin Films
The adhesion of metals to polymers is important in many technologies including interconnects
and microelectrodes. Unfortunately, due to the chemical difference between polymeric and
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metallic materials, the adhesion is generally poor. Adhesion of noble metals such as Au and Pt
are particularly difficult to achieve on a polymeric surface due to their low chemical reactivity. It
has been previously reported that the adhesion of Au thin films on polymereric substrates, such
as poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), is improved by spin casting the surface with halogenated
organic solvents such as chloroform (CHCl3). This study was only performed for bulk,
commercial-grade PMMA, not PMMA thin films cast from a solution. However, not all polymers
can be purchased in sheet form. In this study, we report the results of Au film deposition on thin,
spun-cast films. These films included dissolving PMMA in CHCl3, tetrahydrofuran (C4H8O), and
dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) and depositing onto silicon and glass substrates. Film thick has been
characterized using ellipsometry and Au adhesion has been characterized using a tape
test. Preliminary results have indicated that Au metal film adhesion is not as effective on PMMA
spun-cast samples as compared to bulk PMMA. Results of metal film adhesion will be discussed
as it can be applied to microfluidic devices.
Student Author(s): Samuela Fernandes, Sophomore, Human Biology North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Loboa, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number
58
Osteogenic Differentiation in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Microgravity is known to compromise bone homeostasis leading to loss of bone density in space,
but the mechanisms leading to this are still elusive. Stem cell differentiation in space-like
conditions has not been explored, and we speculated that this may contribute to lack of new
bone formation. The goal of this project was to investigate the effects of simulated microgravity
on osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs). We
compared the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs in Osteogenic Differentiation Media and in Cell
Growth Media in both microgravity and normal gravity. For the normal gravity control we used
an incubator and to simulate microgravity we used a Rotating Wall Vessel (RWV) bioreactor that
was designed by NASA. This research will offer insight into the effects of microgravity on
osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, which, when impaired, can affect changes in new bone
formation. This would alert us to potential detrimental effects of microgravity on bone health
homeostasis that results in osteoporosis-like conditions.
Student Author(s): Edgar Ferrer-Lorenzo, Junior, Biology Duke University
Mentor(s): Kris Wood, Duke University
Daniel Nussbaum Duke University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number
60
Systematic interrogation of druggable pathways in pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Despite significant advances in the development of cancer treatment in the last 20 years the best
available therapies have marginally improved the survival rate of treated pancreatic cancer
patients (from 3% to 6% five-year survival), making it still one the deadliest malignancies. Single
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standard of care cytotoxic and targeted therapies demonstrate little to no effect on patient
survival. Even though we now understand some of the main mutated genetic factors present in
pancreatic tumors, their role in drug response remains poorly understood. To identify drugsensitizing genetic targets in cancer cells we have developed a high-throughput screening
platform. In this methodology, pooled lentiviral libraries containing hundreds of knockout
constructs specific for cancer-related genes are used to infect cancer cells. By treating the
infected populations with therapeutic agents we are able to identify genetic targets that when
inhibited synergize with existing drugs to cause increased cell death. We piloted this type of
screening platform in HCT-116 cells, a KRAS mutant, MEK inhibitor resistant colorectal cancer
cell line, using the MEK-inhibitor AZD-2644 and a pooled shRNA library. This study identified 47 target genes that when knocked down sensitized the previously resistant HCT-116 cells to
AZD-2644. To conduct a more robust and representative sensitization screen we developed a
lentiviral CRISPR-Cas9 library. By performing screens in a panel of pancreatic cancer cell lines,
we have identified both cell line dependencies and sensitizers to targeted and cytotoxic
chemotherapies. The findings from these screens provide potential mechanistic insights into the
key survival signaling programs in pancreatic cancer as well as new therapeutic strategies.
Student Author(s): John Fitz-Henley II, Freshman, n/a NC School of Science and Mathematics
Mentor(s): Amy Sheck, NC School of Science and Mathematics
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Anatomy and Physiology, Oral Session 4, 3:45 - 4:00 PM,
Room 5
From Yeast to Cancer: Manipulating the Quorum Sensing Dynamic
Quorum sensing is an intercellular communication method that relies on cell density within a
colony to coordinate certain colony-wide events. Bacterial use of this mechanism is confirmed,
and some researchers believe that the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and tumors may use
similar mechanisms for the development of complex colony morphology and metastasis,
respectively. This study examined the effects of quercetin and epicatechin, two anti-quorum
sensing compounds, on the complex colony morphology of yeast as a model for tumors.
Epicatechin had an overall statistically significant effect that varied with its concentration, while
quercetin’s effect was not statistically significant. The effect of epicatechin indicates that there
may be applications of anti-quorum sensing molecules outside of bacteria and should be
investigated further as a potential anti-quorum sensing compound in tumors.
Student Author(s): Darren Foster, Senior, Political Science/History Guilford College
Mentor(s): Xuezhi Guo, Guilford College
Presentation: Political Science, Oral Session 3, 2:00 - 2:15 PM, Room 7B
Freedom of Choice and Autonomy in Individual Decision Making
This research investigates the significance of the Supreme Court ruling in NFIB v. Sebelius;
specifically the Courts upholding of the Individual Mandate, and allowing the tax penalty to stand
as a lawful exception to not maintaining a minimum level of coverage. The issue at hand is the
constitutionality of the Federal government’s decision to compel an individual to make a
required choice, either purchase health insurance, or pay a tax for not choosing the mandated
choice. This question stands at the heart of the meaning of democracy, and an individual’s right
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to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness without arbitrary interference from the Federal
government. The research proceeds by reviewing the scholarly, constitutional, and the Supreme
Courts understanding of liberty, autonomy, and the freedom of choice, and argues that, at the
heart of democracy and the very foundations of the U.S. Constitution is constructed a bulwark
against federal infringement against life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The Bill of Rights
and adjoining amendments to the Constitution worked as these protections. The First, Fifth, and
Fourteenth Amendments, notably, offer individuals protections to pursue a course of action
befitting their own standards. From our history and progress as a people; the Nation, the
Constitution, and the Supreme Court have come to promote individual freedom of choice,
autonomy, and liberty. Though the government has set natural boundaries to activity it does not
desire, it has left the individual free to choose and decide what actions they take.
Student Author(s): Caroline Fowle, Junior, Economics University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Carol Stivender, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Political Science, Oral Session 4, 3:15 - 3:30 PM, Room 7B
Wake Up and Vote: An Estimation of Election Participation
In the wake of recent changes to voting procedures, both in the state of North Carolina and
nationwide, it is now more critical than ever to have a clear understanding of the factors that
predict the likelihood of an individual to participate in an election. This research will examine
the characteristics that are often cited as key indicators of voter turnout (race, gender, age,
political affiliation, election type, income, among other variables) in Wake County, North
Carolina. Recent policy changes concerning access to the voting booth necessitate studies such
as this—the results of which establish baselines against which future political participation can
be compared. The data for this research, containing information from the over 660,000
registered voters in Wake County, was compiled and made publicly available by the Wake
County Board of Elections. This research quantifies voter turnout in Wake County exclusively
because the county presents a unique population of individuals, as it is home to the state capital,
is a key component of the Research Triangle Park, and contains multiple institutions of higher
education. The data source for this research contained observations for nearly thirty municipal,
state, and national elections, ranging from 2005-2014. This database was analyzed through the
use of logistic regression to estimate voting probabilities.
Student Author(s): Alison Fowler, Junior, Biological Oceanography, Plant Biology North
Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Astrid Schnetzer, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Marine Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 59
Seasonal Plankton Dynamics in Bogue Sound, North Carolina
Bogue Sound is an ideal case study for North Carolina’s coastal environments that experience
multiple stressors both long and short-term, from eutrophication to change in global climate
parameters. A better predictive understanding of how environmental perturbation can lead to
plankton regime shifts, and thereby effect ecosystem resources (e.g., shellfish or fish), requires
knowledge of how phyto- and zooplankton assemblages at the base of the food web shift over
time. We present information on weekly plankton dynamics collected at two locations in Bogue
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Sound (Radio Island and Morehead City, ~5 miles apart). Phytoplankton and zooplankton
abundances and taxa composition changes are compared among sampling sites and examined
for their relationship with pertinent physiochemical data (i.e., temperature and nutrient
concentrations).
Student Author(s): Ashley Fowler, Senior, Mathematics Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Perry Gillespie , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Mathematics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 36
Qualatative Analysis: Studying the Preserverance of Minorities in STEM
For the last decade, the United States has seen a need for highly motivated workers whose
formal education (training) is in the area of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics). However, a large percentage of the general workforce population consists of
women, minorities, and persons suffering from various disabilities whose background specialize
in Non-STEM areas. Until students, specifically minorities majoring in STEM increase in the
United States, the nation will face a severe shortage of workers with formal training in STEM.
This study utilized a survey that looked into students' personal observations about their
experiences in STEM. Our prediction suggested that the difficulty of the coursework, the faculty
diversity, insufficient support for minorities in STEM and inequality in STEM careers affects the
under representation. The survey results produced all of the factors in the hypothesis predicted
except the inequality in STEM careers. Therefore, the difficulty of coursework, the diversity of
faculty and the lack of support of minorities in STEM are factors that affect the low STEM degree
attainment of minorities.
Student Author(s): John Francis, Freshman, Industrial & Systems Engineering North Carolina
A&T State University
Mentor(s): Tonya Smith-Jackson, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Engineering - Industrial & Systems, Oral Session 2, 10:45 - 11:00 AM, Room 7A
Methodology for Assessment of Behavior and Subjective Experience in Open Plan Office
Designs
Our pilot study will investigate the cognitive effects on worker performance deriving from
interference that typically occurs in an Open Plan Office (OPO) work environment. Our
experiment will use a 2 (Environment) x 3 (Interference Type) x 2 (Task Type) mixed factor
design. The methodology uses a mixed methods sociotechnical systems approach. The goal is to
identify a valid method to assess human behavior and subjective experience in an OPO. We will
focus our efforts in three key areas: (1) A quasi-naturalistic test bed; (2) A process to induce
interference within the environment; and (3) A means to measure performance and mental
workload. Gale and Christie (1987) proposed the term CAFÉ of EVE, Controlled Adaptive Flexible
Environmental Office of the Future in an Ecologically Valid Environment, as a naturalistic test
bed for OPOs. Our CAFÉ of EVE will grant us a level of fidelity in our results. Internal validity will
be facilitated using a counterbalanced design (Latin Square). Our calculated performance
measure specifies both accuracy and skill. Concurrently, an fNIR device will record the relative
hemoglobin change in the prefrontal cortex. We hope that our future research will costeffectively improve workplace design without sacrificing worker cognition, performance, or
satisfaction.
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Student Author(s): Faiza Fraz, Senior, Psychology University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Mentor(s): George Michel, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 15
DEVELOPMENT OF HAND-USE PREFERENCE FOR TOOL-USE IN INFANCY.
Tool-use is a complex manual skill that children master during the first two years of their
life. According to the cascade theory of handedness development (Michel, 2002), hand-use
preference for a manual skill becomes more prominent as the skill is being mastered. The goal of
the current study was to understand the development of the tool-use skill, and hand-use
preference for tool-use in a sample of sixty infants tested monthly from 10 to 14 months. Both
unsuccessful tool-use attempts and successful tool-use actions were recorded. The multilevel
data analysis showed that, as infants developed, left-handers decreased the number of tool-use
attempts while other infants slightly increased it. The number of tool-use actions increased
significantly, and handedness for attempted tool-use became more lateralized with age in all
infants. That is, infants with right hand-use preference or no preference for acquisition became
more right-handed while attempting tool-use, whereas infants with left-hand preference for
acquisition became more left-handed while attempting tool-use. In contrast, all infants preferred
the right hand more with age for successful tool-use. We conclude that the skill of tool-use
continues to develop during the second year of the child’s life, and further change in hand-use
preference for tool-use is expected during that period. [NSF grant DLS 0718045 to GFM].
Student Author(s): Samuel Fritz, Sophomore, Evolutionary Biology Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Joe Bryan, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Anatomy and Physiology, Oral Session 4, 3:30 - 3:45 PM,
Room 5
The Effects of Social Networks on Human Longevity and Quality of Life
As the baby boomer generation begins to reach old age, the portion of the United States
Population over 65 years of age is increasing sharply. According to the United States Census
Bureau 14.1% of the US population was over 65 years of age in 2013. As the demographic of
senior citizen grows, the American health system is facing, and will inevitably continue to face,
an increase in the number of cases of disorders common in elderly individuals. These disorders,
including dementia, cardiovascular disease, and various infections take the lives of millions of
Americans each year. An examination of cultures from all over the world reveals that locations
with cultures which place focus on respecting and supporting the elderly often have significantly
higher life expectancies than cultures which tend to view the elderly as useless or past their
prime. The data provided by a myriad of psychological, sociological, and physiological studies
reveals that the strength of an individuals social support network can have a profound effect on
not only the outcome of treatment for various maladies, but also has preventive effects and
seems to improve general quality of life.
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Student Author(s): Steven Frye, Junior, Physics University of North Carolina - Asheville
Mentor(s): James Perkins, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Presentation: Physics - General, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number
52
Preservation of Silver Nanowires in Polydimethylsiloxane
Silver nanowires currently being synthesized by ferroelectric lithography at the University of
North Carolina Asheville are wiped clean from the periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN)
after characterization so the substrates may be reused. By encasing the wires in epoxy, they may
be preserved and analyzed at a later date. These wires are important because of their potential
for spatially dependant Raman scattering enhancement. It is hypothesized that due to the
nanoscale curvature of the silver the Raman scattering will be enhanced significantly in the
interstice between silver nanoparticles. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) has proven effective in
encasing the silver nanoparticles without damaging the crystal substrates. This silicone based
epoxy is optically clear and flexible, both convenient traits when testing spatially dependant
characteristics. However, application of the PDMS has previously disturbed the relative positions
of the nanoparticles. Several methods have been employed to eliminate this disturbance by using
molds and varying pour and cure techniques. Once the wires have been removed from the
substrate with their relative placement preserved, they will be analyzed as possible tunable
substrates for Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering; potentially useful for single molecule
spectroscopy.
Student Author(s): Paul Frye, Senior, Biology Catawba College
Mentor(s): Constance Lowery, Catawba College
Presentation: Marine Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 58
The Effects of increased levels of CO2 on Favia fragum
Ocean acidification is a major factor contributing to global climate change, impacting ecosystems
as diverse as coral reefs and kelp forests. The current study focuses on the effects of ocean
acidification on coral physiology. The golfball coral, Favia fragum, were exposed to 380 ppm,
700 ppm (predicted atmospheric CO2 level in 2100), and 1300 ppm atmospheric CO2 for 7 days.
At that time, oxygen consumption at 26 and 32 degrees Celsius in both light and dark conditions
were measured to calculate rates of photosynthesis and respiration, respectively. It is
hypothesized that if there is an increase in CO2, then the coral’s metabolism and respiration will
decrease. The results of this study will further our understanding of how the predicted increases
of CO2 will affect coral reefs.
Student Author(s): Christopher Fuller, Senior, Environmental Science Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Chris Thaxton, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Earth Science, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 42
Characterization of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer Using the Heffter Technique and
Micro Pulse Lidar
Quantitative analysis of the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) is pivotal to the understanding of
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constituent dynamics within the atmosphere. Identifying the height of the ABL is accomplished
by utilizing conditions delineated by the Heffter technique and then correlating with
observations from the on-site Micro Pulse Lidar. Preliminary methodology employed radiosonde
data collected by the team at ApplAir in Boone, North Carolina during the summer of 2013. Upon
validation, meteorological data acquired from NOAA’s Air Resources Laboratory will be compiled
in order to properly characterize the atmospheric boundary layer at any location of interest. This
study is part of a collaborative endeavor whose goal is to examine the intrinsic relationship
between synoptic meteorological conditions and the potential climatological effects of
particulate aerosols.
Student Author(s): William Fuss, Junior, Materials Science and Engineering, Computer Science
North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Yaroslava Yingling, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Materials, Oral Session 1 , 9:30 - 9:45 AM, Room 5
Dissipative Particle Dynamics Simulations of the Self-Assembly of Amphiphilic Diblock
and Triblock Polyelectrolyte Copolymers
Self-assembly is a process in which a material configures itself into organized structures in
response to internal and external stimuli at ambient conditions. Such processes are ubiquitous in
nature, and have great potential to act as “smart” materials using biological macromolecules and
nanostructures that are responsive to environmental changes. Computational modeling can
provide unique insight for the dynamics of self-assembly processes. Particularly, the recently
developed implicit solvent ionic strength (ISIS) method via dissipative particle dynamics (DPD)
simulations offers the ability to rapidly construct coarse-grained models of amphiphilic block
copolymers which are sensitive to changes in pH and ionic strength. Polyelectrolyte block
copolymers in aqueous solution were previously difficult to model using other atomistic and
coarse-grained approaches due to the explicit consideration of the effect of ions in solution
greatly increasing computational complexity. However, using the ISIS-DPD model, the selfassembly of amphiphilic polyelectrolyte copolymers into compartmental micelles can be more
easily studied in great detail so that they might eventually be tailored for various biomedical and
industrial applications, such as drug delivery or nanolithography. For this project, we used the
ISIS-DPD model to observe the changes in micellar morphology, size, and physical properties
with respect to polyelectrolyte block length and solvent ionic strength for two chain topologies,
the diblock and triblock, in order to further develop our understanding of the mechanisms
behind their self-assembly.
Student Author(s): Ray Gerard, Senior, Sociology Methodist University
Mentor(s): Regina Smardon , Methodist University
Presentation: Sociology , Oral Session 1 , 9:45 - 10:00 AM, Room 3
College student attitudes about gun control
Although there is a large body of research documenting Americans’ attitudes about gun control
(Hemenway, Azrael, Miller 2001), more recently, research has focused on the views of college
students (Miller, Hemenway, Wechsler 2002) and even fewer specifically look at gender
(Bankston, Thompson, Jenkins, Forsyth 1990). There does not exist any study that compares the
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views of men and women college students about gun control policy. This survey study fills that
gap.This paper reports on a recent survey of college students’ attitudes about gun control. The
analysis tests the hypothesis that gender predicts level of support for gun control policies.
Student Author(s): Andrew Giggey, Senior, Physics University of North Carolina - Asheville
Mentor(s): James Perkins, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Presentation: Physics - General, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number
53
Analytical Modeling of Unwanted Interstitial Growth in Silver Nanowire Production
Current methods of synthesizing silver nanowires on ferroelectric, periodically poled lithium
niobate (PPLN) crystals are limited due to unwanted interstitial growth of silver between
nanowires. It is believed that surface imperfections on the crystal wafer become sights of electric
field abnormalities that cause the growth away from the 180-degree domain boundaries, the
location of desired wire sites. An analytical model is prepared which investigates the electric
field abnormalities created by screening charges both at topological deformities (i.e. scratches)
and at the domain boundaries of the PPLN crystal. Results from the model are compared to
results from colleagues using experimental and computational methods. The size and shape of
the ferroelectric lithographic silver nanowires on PPLN make them appropriate for use as wires
in integrated circuits or as surface enhanced Raman Spectroscopy substrates.
Student Author(s): Jeremy Gilreath, Senior, Computer Technology & Information Systems
Guilford College
Mentor(s): Jack Zerbe, Guilford College
Presentation: Philosophy & Religious Studies, Oral Session 3, 2:15 - 2:30 PM, Room 3
The Historical Ebb and Flow of Zen Buddhism and Ukiyo-e in Japan
Pictures of the floating world' printed on woodblocks, or ukiyo-e, have participated in an
intimate relationship with Buddhism in Japan for the past 350 years, where ukiyo-e portrayed
various aspects of Buddhist philosophy in its stylization even as its subject matter reflected the
penetration of Buddhism into secular Japanese society. Buddhism and ukiyo-e will be
approached with a historical lens to show how they developed concurrently and shared mutual
influence. Exploring the contexts that allowed their practices to flourish during the Tokugawa
Shogunate (1600-1868) but later strangled them during the turbulent cultural reforms of the
Meiji Restoration (1868-1912) and the Westernization spearheaded by Matthew Perry
illustrates the cultural re-framing of their relationship, and reveals that these disruptive events
engineered the ruin of Buddhism, a collapse that ukiyo-e subsequently echoed during its own
subversion as their relationship was sundered and each were pushed to the margins of cultural
relevance. The critical difference between these two traditions is that Zen Buddhism survived by
adapting to these influences as an anchor to the past as well as a bridge to the future, while
ukiyo-e became moribund by abandoning its Zen aspects and utterly failing to marry tradition
with progress despite a mutually regulating social clime.
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Student Author(s): Melanie Giovannetti, Senior, Computer Information Technology Methodist
University
Mentor(s): Terry House, Methodist University
Presentation: Accounting, Oral Session 2, 11:00 - 11:15 AM, Room 7A
DVA Tracking System
Methodist University is a veteran friendly school, approximately 500 students are currently
enrolled are veterans or spouses of veterans that receive educational benefits from the
Department of Veterans Affair (DVA). The veteran’s office on campus services each military
affiliated student and goes to a time-consuming process to ensure correct billing and
administrating of funds. At this point, the process is done manually with excel spreadsheets and
word documents. I saw an opportunity to automate this process by building an intranet based
software which is able to complete the billing process more efficiently. The system will be able to
ensure accuracy of billing and tracking of funds. A major problem the veteran’s office faces is the
time involved in backtracking students’ changes or updates such as adding or dropping classes
or in some cases changing the degree plan during enrollment. These modifications can
dramatically reduce or increase the students’ available funds from the DVA. This is an important
task that needs to be monitored closely. My program will be able to generate daily reports to
provide a less time consuming way to ensure accuracy.
Student Author(s): Ismael Gomez, Sophomore, Pharmaceutical Science Nash Community
College
Mentor(s): David Beamer, Nash Community College
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 12
The Phylogeography of the Seepage Salamander (Desmognathus aenus)
The seepage salamander, Desmognathus aeneus, occupies many distinct physiographic regions
and several independent river drainage basins. Within this range, seepage salamander
populations tend to be localized and most are apparently disjunct. The disjunct nature of these
populations coupled with a complex geological and ecological history of the region occupied by
these salamanders provides conditions which are conducive to lineage diversification. During
the course of a range wide survey of seepage salamander, we visited nearly every historical site
from which this species has been reported; in addition we discovered many previously unknown
populations. Here we report the first phylogeographic survey of these minute salamanders. A
Bayesian phylogenetic reconstruction of the mitochondrial DNA gene, ND2, reveals the presence
of several well supported, distinct evolutionary lineages. The presence of multiple lineages
within seepage salamanders has important conservation implications. The results of this survey
provide a strong case for the importance of molecular systematic techniques in revealing the
biodiversity of the southeastern United States.
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Student Author(s): Ahmar Gordon, Junior, Computer Science Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Rahman Tashakkori, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Oral Session 2, 11:15 - 11:30 AM, Room 4
Using Makey-Makey as an Educational and Programming Tool
Inexpensive embedded systems devices and kits such as Makey-Makey have provided a medium
to students of different ages to develop innovative projects. This presentation demonstrates how
Makey-Makey is used to introduce simple programming techniques while teaching several key
concepts in math and science. In the first program, a Java application is used to create the Red,
Green, and Blue (RGB) color system and create a mixing panel for the colors. This project is
expanded to an Arduino microcontroller to produce the color on an RGB LED. In the second
project, students use the Makey-Makey kit to demonstrate how two vectors can be added using a
grid-based Java application. The user object’s movements are tracked throughout the grid and
once the goal location is reached the corresponding vector is calculated and displayed.
Student Author(s): Margaret Goscinski, Senior, Economics and Arts Management Salem College
Mentor(s): Megan Silbert, Salem College
Presentation: Economics, Oral Session 4, 3:15 - 3:30 PM, Room 4
Discrimination within the Labor Market Towards LGBTQ Employees
Discrimination research pertaining to the wage gap between heterosexual and LGBTQ workers is
still in its infancy. This paper looks into the wage gap in several first world countries and
extensively studies the discrimination LGBTQ employees face through workplace healthcare
options. Many economists have begun to research this topic, and have looked at it through many
different methods including; case studies, experiments and surveys. These results have been
analyzed through the Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition equation, which has been reformatted for
this use. The findings of this paper include the possibility that there are many things that
discredit LGBTQ workers, comprising of occupational sorting, human capital characteristics and
discrimination. The results of this work show that LGBTQ workers are discriminated against.
However, there are ways to prevent this discrimination, through legislature and debunking
learned stereotypes.
Student Author(s): Hannah Gotsch, Junior, Chemical Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Gregory Parsons, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Chemical & Biomolecular, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 36
Electrochemical Super Capacitor Electrolyte Solution Testing
Electrochemical super-capacitors are a form of electrical energy storage much like a battery, but
instead of storing energy with faradaic reactions, they store energy using electrostatic charge.
Electrochemical capacitors are power dense, but, unlike batteries and fuel cells, they have a low
energy density. Through the addition of vanadium oxide atomic layer deposition (ALD) we can
add pseudocapacitance and improve the energy density to lead to the adoption of
electrochemical capacitors in high power demanding industrial applications. A means of
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maximizing initial capacitance while reducing or preventing capacitance degradation after many
charge/discharge cycles may be in the electrolyte used. In this study we modify the electrolyte to
optimize the performance of the ALD vanadium oxide coating. In order to test this hypothesis a
series of tests were run comparing the effects of various salt solutions at varying pH levels on
electrodes with and without an ALD vanadium oxide coating. A previous study of
electrodeposited vanadium oxide electrodes tested in 1 M potassium chloride at various pH
levels found pH 3 resulted in the best balance between initial capacitance and the reliability. In
this study we expand the salts to include potassium chloride, potassium sulfate, and sodium
sulfate at varying pHs to test the ALD vanadium oxide coatings.
Student Author(s): Nacole Grant, Senior, Biology Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Shirley Chao, Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Toxicology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 52
Formulations of seeds from Cannabaceae inhibit feeding of flour by Tenebrio beetles By
Nacole Grant and Shirley Chao
Stored-product pests are a major problem globally, with losses exceeding millions of dollars per
year. Insects are principal pests that cause damage to stored grain. Extracts from the plant family
Cannabaceae, in particular, have been shown to affect insect development and mortality. As a
result, we investigated formulations made from seeds of Cannabaceae. Three groups of Tenebrio
beetles were raised on wheat flour (controls) and two formulations of Cannabaceae. After
measuring the amount of flour each group ingested for seven days, we observed that beetles
ingested significantly less flour when formulations were present compared to the controls.
Approximately 61% of flour in controls was eaten compared to 30% of flour was ingested in
treatments groups containing Cannabaceae formulations. Our findings suggest that Cannabaceae
formulations have the potential as pesticides by deterring feeding, decreasing overall damage to
stored products.
Student Author(s): Tiara Gray, Senior, Industrial & System Engineering North Carolina A&T
State University
Briana Steele, Sophomore, xxx, North Carolina A & T State University
Cedric Watlington, Junior, Industrial & System Engineering, North Carolina A & T State
University
Mentor(s): Tonya Smith-Jackson, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Engineering - Industrial & Systems, Oral Session 1 , 9:45 - 10:00 AM, Room 7A
Measurement of Stress and Performance Levels Due to Disruptions
The purpose of this project is to explore how different levels of stress are experienced while
performing office tasks in an open plan office environment due to disruptions. The experiment
conducted requires participants to complete a series of office tasks. The tasks and the
performance environment were selected to simulate typical office work responsibilities. The
disruptions are comprised of distractors such as speech, phones ringing, and printer noises. To
successfully measure the stress and performance, different scenarios and interference stimuli
are presented based on a Latin Square counterbalancing scheme, which includes: quiet,
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continuous and discontinuous speech (at a set decibel level). While the participants are working
on their tasks, he or she will experience telephone calls, conversations, printing, and typing
noises. The various interference types are expected to induce stress in the participants.
Ultimately, the stress induced should have a varying effect on the participants’ concentration
level and performance. The results of this study will help identify new and different ways to
design open plan offices layouts and facilitate worker performance in these settings.
Student Author(s): Jordan Griffin, Senior, Exercise Physiology East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Joseph Houmard, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number
57
Insulin-Stimulated Lactate Production
It has been shown that Type 2 diabetic patients who undergo Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery
(RYGB) show a decrease in muscle lactate production, liver glucose production and pancreatic
insulin secretion. To explain these changes, it is hypothesized that gastric bypass surgery
“removes” a block at pyruvate oxidation in both muscle and liver, affecting lactate concentration.
The rapid remission of diabetes after RYGB is accompanied by a reduction in blood lactate
concentrations and therefore a reduction in fasting glucose concentration. This study was done
to compare glucose and lactate levels in subjects 1-3 years post RYGB to age- and BMI-matched
control subjects. Our hypothesis was that there will be no significant differences in glucose and
lactate levels between the groups, suggesting that RYGB causes these levels to return to normal.
Each subject underwent an intravenous glucose tolerance test and blood samples were taken
over the course of three hours. Each blood sample was analyzed for glucose and lactate values
and the results were compared. Our results show that on average, lactate values in RYGB
patients are lower than their age- and BMI-matched controls, suggesting that the surgery induces
a lasting change in skeletal muscle metabolism, which enables the oxidation of glucose.
Student Author(s): Stephen Grooms, Senior, Computer Technology and Information Systems
Guilford College
Mentor(s): Chafic Bousaba, Guilford College
Presentation: Atmospheric Sciences, Oral Session 2, 11:30 - 11:45 AM, Room 7B
Personal Weather Station
Weather forecasting has reached a technical level unimaginable in years past. With satellite
sensing, Doppler radar, and remote weather stations all feeding sophisticated computer models,
forecasting and system tracking have reached an accuracy never before seen. Even with all of
this sophistication however the report is still of a regional level, as the areas interest in the
forecast become smaller, the less accurate the forecast becomes. The goal of this paper is to
build a low cost, simple to assemble, but yet highly customizable weather monitoring system that
will sense local weather data. The station will be capable of uploading local data and
downloading regional data from various open source websites such as weather underground
“wunderground.com” and PWSweather.com. The system should be able to take the downloaded
data, analyze and aggregate the data and email the results to a list of personal email
addresses. Our weather station will be built using open source hardware and software for data
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management, but will use off the shelf instrumentation for economical and ease of part
replacement purposes. A Raspberry Pi B+ with USB wireless network card, case, and power
supply will be utilized for internet access and email purposes.
Student Author(s): Wendy Guevara, Senior, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Peter Vitiello, Sanford Research
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 25
A cell-free system to study redox-sensitive thioredoxin substrate interactions
Oxidative stress from endogenous or environmental sources can modify redox-dependent cell
signaling through dithiol/disulfide modifications to the proteome. Perturbations to thiol status
during oxidative injury are detoxified by thioredoxin-1 (Trx1); however, the identity of oxidized
protein substrates targeted by Trx1 and the biological consequences of these signaling pathways
are not understood. Our lab developed a novel proteomic approach to identify Trx1 substrates in
cells and mice and the purpose of these studies was to develop a complementary in vitro
approach to (1) validate potential Trx1 substrates and (2) investigate the biochemical nature of
the interactions.
Student Author(s): Mia Hall, Senior, Chemistry Elizabeth City State University
Mentor(s): Christopher Perry, Loma Linda University
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 18
SYNTHESIS AND CATALYTIC ACTIVITY OF SILVER-GOLD NANOPARTICLES
Metallic nanoparticles (NPs) have been the subject of intense research during recent years
because of their potential use in catalysis. We present a study on the catalytic reduction of 4nitrophenol (4NP) by sodium borohydride in the presence of monometallic and bimetallic NPs.
As part of this study, we 1) synthesized maltose capped silver NPs via the reduction of
Ag(NH3)2+ by maltose in an alkaline environment, 2) synthesized silver-gold (AgAu) bimetallic
NPs with varying silver to gold ratios via the galvanic replacement reaction between maltose
capped silver NPs and HAuCl4, 3) determining the catalytic activity of the synthesized NP using
the reduction of 4-nitrophenol as a model system, and 4) evaluated the effect of pH on the
catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol by the NPs. The synthesized NPs were characterized using
UV-vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and atomic force microscope (AFM). The
reduction of 4NP by sodium borohydride in the presence of NPs was monitored using UV-vis
spectroscopy. We found that the synthesized AgAu NPs showed enhanced catalytic activity
compared to silver NPs in the sodium borohydride mediated reduction of 4NP and that changes
in pH altered the rate of catalysis.
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Student Author(s): Matthew Hamilton, Senior, Exercise Science University of North Carolina Wilmington
Mentor(s): Robert Boyce, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Anatomy and Physiology, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00
PM, Room 1 Poster Number 2
Relationship between Fatigue and Musculoskeletal Discomfort in a University Setting
The health of employees in organizations is related to employees’ musculoskeletal health. Also,
the fatigue that an employee experiences can affect their productivity and moral on the job. Little
research has been done to compare the relationship between these two health characteristics.
Purpose: To compare the relationship between those experiencing low and moderate-high
fatigue and musculoskeletal discomfort. Methods: An ANOVA model was used to analyze an
anonymous university staff ergonomic and exercise questionnaire including gender, height,
weight, fatigue, and musculoskeletal discomfort values. The fatigue and musculoskeletal scales
ran from 0-5; with 0 being no fatigue/no discomfort and 5 being very fatigue/very
uncomfortable. High (fatigue>3) and low (fatigue<2) groups were selected for comparison based
on the end of shift fatigue. Results: Those employees reporting moderate-high fatigue in
comparison to those reporting low fatigue experienced higher body mass index (BMI) and higher
discomfort in all measured body parts. The body parts with the greatest difference between high
and low fatigue were the neck, upper back, lower back, and legs. Conclusion: It appears that
body discomfort and fatigue at work are related. Interventions that target one or both of these
conditions may improve employee productivity and overall health.
Student Author(s): Jessica Hatcher, Junior, English, Secondary Education concentration North
Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Jeffrey Reaser, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Education, Oral Session 1 , 10:00 - 10:15 AM, Room 7B
Comparing Pre-Service Teachers’ Discourse Strategies in Discussions of Literary and
Authentic Dialect
The indirect relationship between dialect and academic failure is a matter of great concern. Some
studies suggest that teachers exposed to sociolinguistic knowledge about dialects are more
successful than those who have not had such exposure. Godley and Reaser (2013) find that
exposure to sociolinguistic information is useful in equipping teachers with new perspectives,
but often leaves them more aware of what not to do than knowing what to do. Emerging
research (Godley and Reaser 2013) suggests pre-service teachers (PSTs) are comfortable with
addressing different dialects in literature, but are less comfortable applying sociolinguistic
knowledge when evaluating student speech and writing; however, it is the latter discussions that
are far more potent for revising ideologies. This project examines a variety of data collected
from PSTs in an attempt to better understand how the discussions of PSTs differ when
discussing literary dialect versus authentic dialect. I examined PSTs’ discussions of literary
dialect and authentic language, coding them according to Haviland’s (2008) discourse strategies
for being evasive in recognizing whiteness as powerful and discourse strategies for maintaining
white power. Analysis revealed the discourse strategies employed by PSTs differed between
online and in-class settings and Haviland’s discourse strategies were more prevalent in
discussions concerning authentic dialect than literary dialect. From this analysis, I hope to
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ultimately understand what PSTs are comfortable discussing and begin to develop a set of
critical pedagogies that help teachers bridge the gap between literary and authentic dialect so
that they can better meet the needs of diverse learners.
Student Author(s): Erin Hayes, Senior, Psychology University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Sara Levens, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 7
The effect of cannabis use on reward processing regions of the brain
The use of cannabis as a recreational and medicinal drug is growing in popularity. However,
debate exists over the medicinal benefits versus negative side effects of cannabis use. Previous
research has published mixed findings regarding the effects of cannabis use on reward
processing in the brain. The present study was designed to clarify research on cannabis use by
measuring variability in neural blood flow while a participant performs a reward processing task
in the fMRI brain scanner. Participants were 165 at-risk young men from the Pitt Mother & Child
Project, an ongoing longitudinal study at the University of Pittsburg. Participants were placed in
one of 4 groups (early teen users, mid-teen users, late teen users and non-users) according to
their monthly marijuana drug use from 13 to 19 years of age. Neural activity was examined in
the ventral striatum, the primary reward processing region of the brain. Results reveal that while
anticipating a reward, early teen users exhibited a blunted neural response in the ventral
striatum compared to mid teen users. These results suggest that early onset and frequent use of
marijuana may dull the natural response to anticipating a reward which may result in reduced
engagement in rewarding activities.
Student Author(s): Lillian Hayward, Junior, Sociology & Anthropology Guilford College
Mentor(s): Julie Winterich, Guilford College
Presentation: Anthropology, Oral Session 3, 2:15 - 2:30 PM, Room 8B
Exploring Experiential Education Programs: Student Outcomes and Perspectives within
the Cape Fear River Basin Seminar
Past research finds that hands-on learning outside of the classroom benefits students in various
ways for their academic, career and personal goals. In particular, students have been found to be
more engaged in class material when given the opportunity to work within their communities;
they gain greater connections to their community; and are more likely to continue working in
their communities as goal-oriented citizens. Based on in-depth interviews with students who
have participated in Guilford College’s Cape Fear River Basin seminar, a place-based experiential
education course, this study examines students’ experiences with this unique program. The
interviews will primarily focus on the community-based projects students conducted during the
course and how those projects affected their views of themselves as active citizens within their
communities. Anticipated findings include a variety of meanings and experiences that enhance
students’ learning in and outside the classroom. The implications for curricular enrichment for
students’ learning will be discussed.
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Student Author(s): Yu Ting He, Senior, Biology Duke University
Mentor(s): Ornit Chiba-Falek, Duke University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 20
Role of TOMM40 Gene in Lewy Body Pathology
The category of neurodegenerative diseases include a vast number of illnesses that vary in
pathology and symptoms. At the same time, it has long been noted that there are marked
similarities among various neurodegenerative diseases. One of these similarities is the
appearance of protein aggregates called Lewy bodies. Lewy bodies are most well-known as the
hallmarks of Parkinson’s disease, but they are also found in other diseases such as Lewy body
dementia and sometimes in Alzheimer’s disease. Our previous experiments had examined the
Lewy body pathology through three polymorphic regions on the TOMM40 gene in various
disease groups (Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease with Lewy Bodies,
dementia with Lewy Bodies, and normal brains). Of the three polymorphic regions, two showed
only genotypic and allelic frequency differences between Alzheimer’s disease/dementia vs nonAD/dementia groups. However, the last polymorphic region, SNP rs11668327, showed a
noticeable difference between the Lewy body and non-Lewy body groups, meaning it may play a
role in Lewy body pathology. Therefore, we are currently examining five more polymorphic
regions spread across the TOMM40 gene. By examining this gene in over 600 brain samples of
various disease groups, we can see how each region of this gene vary in genetic and allelic
frequencies depending on the disease. The greater goal of this project is to identify the regions
on TOMM40 that is most influential to the Lewy body pathology.
Student Author(s): Heidi Heimer, Senior, Exercise Science University of North Carolina Charlotte
Mentor(s): Reuben Howden, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Anatomy and Physiology, Oral Session 4, 3:15 - 3:30 PM,
Room 5
Cardiac Responses to Prolonged Hyperoxia vs. Hypoxia
Oxygen is critical for survival, but too much or too little oxygen can have detrimental effects on
the body. Exposure to hyperoxia, high oxygen levels, or hypoxia, low oxygen levels, can damage
tissues through oxidative stress subsequently increasing morbidity and mortality. Decreases in
gas exchange, leading to systemic hypoxia may result from hyperoxic lung damage. Therefore,
we used prolonged hyperoxia and hypoxia exposures to understand the role of hypoxia in
hyperoxia-induced adverse cardiac responses. Similar cardiac responses to both exposures
would suggest hypoxia might play a vital role in response to hyperoxia. Dissimilar responses to
both exposures would suggest hypoxia is not involved in the outcomes to hyperoxia. Mice were
exposed to 10% oxygen, 100% oxygen or room air for 55 hours. Reductions in HR, by 55 %, and
QTcB, by 58%, were observed along with a 65% increase in PR-I in hyperoxic mice only. Cardiac
responses to prolonged hypoxia were not observed in this study. Our results indicate that
hypoxia does not contribute to the adverse cardiac responses to hyperoxia. Based on our
findings, the administration of prolonged hyperoxia in clinical settings should be cautiously
monitored, but the mechanisms by which hyperoxia induces adverse cardiac response are
currently unclear.
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Student Author(s): Laura Heinen, Junior, Geology Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Chuanhui Gu, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Earth Science, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 45
Quantifying Ambient Non-hydrologic Nutrient Retention in Streams
Stream nutrient uptake is an important ecosystem function that retains nutrients during instream transport. However, quantifying urban watershed parameters tends to be more difficult
due to a variety of factors including long and short- term hydrologic variations and
inaccessibility to certain reaches. The current practice of uptake length (Sw) estimation from
steady-state nutrient data using linear regression has a number of limitations. The objective of
this study was to present a methodology that combines a transport-based analysis and a linear
extrapolation technique to quantify the extent of stream nutrient uptake in an urbanized stream
setting. Nutrient uptakes were quantified through tracer injection experiments in an urban
stream, Boone Creek located in the NC High Country. We added a set amount of conservative
and non-conservative tracer to the stream in order to model a shift from ambient to saturated
nutrient concentration levels. A stream solute transport model (OTIS) was then used to separate
hydrologic and biogeochemical processes using various model parameters. We used the
calibrated OTIS model to calculate Sw for a sequence of simulations with increasing levels of
nutrient addition. We then estimated the Sw at background concentration through extrapolating
the curve of Sw vs. added nutrient concentration to the negative ambient concentration. The
proposed methodology can potentially be an easy, affordable, and efficient means to quantifying
nutrient uptake lengths based on sound theoretical development.
Student Author(s): Kyle Henderson, Senior, Biology Catawba College
Mentor(s): Jay Bolin, Catawba College
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Oral Session 1 , 9:45 - 10:00 AM, Room 6
Non-lethal predator avoidance by aquatic beetles to the red swamp crayfish
(Procambarus clarkii)
Community assembly has been shown to be influenced by non-lethal predator cues in many
aquatic predator-prey systems. We experimentally evaluated the effect of the red swamp
crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) on the community assembly of aquatic beetles using mesocosms.
We established a gradient of P. clarkii presence in a randomized block design (control = 0; low =
1 crayfish; high =2 crayfish). Predators were separated visually and tactilely from colonizing
aquatic beetles by caging and a vinyl screening. The study was conducted in a field habitat at
Catawba College’s Fred Stanback Jr. Ecological Preserve, located in the central piedmont of North
Carolina. The total mean beetle abundance was significantly reduced in one and two crayfish
density treatments (P = 0.041). A pilot predation study was conducted that demonstrated P.
clarkii predation on Acilius semisuculatus, Tropisternus blatchyi, and Tropisternus collaris. This is
the first report of predator avoidance of crayfish by aquatic beetles and suggests that community
assembly of aquatic beetles can be influenced by a ubiquitous invasive species.
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Student Author(s): Ashlyn Henson, Senior, Chemistry Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Libby Puckett, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 16
Development of a protein-based system for the detection of organophosphates using the
pH dependence of enhanced green fluorescent protein
The purpose of this project is to create a fusion protein between organophosphorus hydrolase
(OPH) and enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) to determine the presence of
organophosphates (OPs). OPs are known neurotoxic inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE)
that are commonly found in pesticides and chemical warfare agents. OPs inhibit AChE by
phosphorylating the active site of the enzyme, resulting in its deactivation. OPH is an enzyme
that catalyzes the hydrolysis of OP products, and can thus be used in remediation efforts. In
order to monitor this process, a reporter protein, EGFP, is attached to OPH in a fusion protein.
EGFP is a red-shifted variant of green fluorescent protein (GFP) and is pH dependent. The fusion
protein components will work together so that when OPH catalyzes the cleavage of the OP
substrate (resulting in two protons being released into the local environment), the fluorescence
intensity of EGFP will decrease. After expression and purification, the fusion protein will be
utilized to detect and quantify organophosphates. A concurrent goal is to demonstrate that
traditional pH determination methods are not applicable to this project because when the OP is
cleaved the proton release is local and cannot be detected by a pH probe.
Student Author(s): Emily Herbert, Junior, Environmental Science Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Luke Dollar, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 15
Why so blue? A look at the decline of Blue Crab in the Chesapeake Bay
The Blue Crab is an icon of the DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area. But in recent years,
crabbers have experienced the worst harvests that they have ever had. Over $640 million has
been lost from the declining crabbing industry ever since 2007 when the worst harvest in history
was recorded for both Maryland and Virginia, which also led to a loss of roughly 4500 jobs. This
decline typically is attributed to pollution and over fishing but does it go further than that? The
real question is whether there are other attributing factors behind the decline in crab
population, and if so, what is being done/has been done to help. Results in previous tests have
shown that the decline is mainly due to pollution and a subsequent overfishing problem.
Overfishing occurs because the number of crabs is not certain, so leaving enough to sustain a
population becomes more difficult. A harvest of 46% of the population of blue crab is what is
believed to be sustainable by most scientists but currently there is a 64% harvest occurring
yearly. It also does not help their case that there has been a rise in phosphorous, nitrogen, and
sediment pollution in the areas that the crabs actually live. This kills of the algae that once served
as cover for the crabs and causes increased predation. By researching more in depth about the
relationships between all of these factors, progress in rehabilitating the crab population in the
Chesapeake Bay could be possible.
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Student Author(s): Leigh Herhold, Senior, Statistics North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Justin Post, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Statistics, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number 66
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Model Selection Using Penalization and Strong Heredity
Methods
Regression models need to be both interpretable and fit the data well. Penalized regression
methods such as the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) are commonly
used for parameter selection. LASSO penalizes regression coefficients, often setting them to zero.
This is especially useful for modeling complex diseases that include various risk factors. To
further improve prediction accuracy and interpretability, previous literature has promoted the
use of strong heredity principles in which an interaction term cannot be present in a model if the
corresponding main effects are not selected, and higher order polynomial terms cannot be
included without all lower order polynomial terms. In adopting these ideas, this research
explores the effectiveness of model selection by using AIC and structured penalization with
strong heredity principles. Ultimately, our goal is to select the best polynomial representation
from the ANOVA model, where the factors are actually quantitative predictors.
Student Author(s): Nathan Hernandez, Senior, Computer Science Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Rahman Tashakkori, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Oral Session 2, 11:00 - 11:15 AM, Room 4
Remote Beehive Surveying
Honey bees are important pollinators of cash crops which account for a large percentage of
global food production; they are necessary for a commercial and sustainable agriculture. Honey
bees have been an area of major research in recent years due to the wide spread of colony
collapse disorder (CCD), where honey bee colonies curiously lose a large number of worker bees.
The CCD epidemic has resulted in a major loss of colonies in beekeeping operations across the
world, hence requiring reliable monitoring systems as a preventive measure. Our research aims
to create an inexpensive and modular monitoring system that can send sensor data acquired
from multiple beehives to servers for further analysis. This work-in-progress project attempts to
collect data on hives using a Raspberry Pi system. Raspberry Pis provide a mechanism to
program various USB and on-board devices such as cameras, microphones, humidity, and
temperature sensors. This presentation provides details on the design and implementation of
several data acquisition systems that are successfully tested for collecting temperature,
humidity, audio, and video data from beehives.
Student Author(s): Taylor Hinnant, Junior, Biology East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Ables, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 8
Dietary control of cell cycle dynamics in stem cells
Environmental exposure and genetic background are determining factors in human health and
overall body function. Adult tissue-specific stem cells are also influenced by such factors, but the
molecular mechanisms that control the response to environmental influences remain unclear.
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Because of the ability for in vivo study, as well as their similarities to human adult stem cells,
Drosophila ovarian germline stem cells (GSCs) serve as an exceptional model to test potential
mechanisms. To further understand the effects of organismal nutrition on GSCs, we placed
female fruit flies on a high sugar diet that elicits an altered metabolic physiology mimicking
human diabetes. We found that female flies have greatly reduced levels of egg production. This
data suggests that proliferation of GSCs may be altered in response to a high sugar diet. To test
and quantify the GSC response to a high sugar diet, we are using a combination of molecular
markers and fusome morphology to study stem cell proliferation. These findings may aid our
understanding of the mechanism of human metabolic disorders.
Student Author(s): Tammy Hoang, Senior, Chemistry University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Mentor(s): Meredith Storms, University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Presentation: Chemistry - Analytical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 24
The Stability of Grape-Flavored Omeprazole Suspension
A high-performance liquid chromatography method has been optimized for the determination of
omeprazole. The separation and quantitation are achieved on a Synergi Hydro-RP column
(4.6x150mm) using a mobile phase of 65:35% v/v 6.0 mM sodium phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) and
acetonitrile at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min with UV detection at 302 nm. The optimized HPLC
method will be validated and subsequently employed to determine the stability of a compounded
omeprazole suspension prepared with grape flavoring.
Student Author(s): Rachel Hockett, Junior, Art Education University of North Carolina Pembroke
Mentor(s): Brandon Sanderson, University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Presentation: Arts - Visual, Exhibits, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Creating North Carolinian Flora + Flauna Illustrations and Prints
In the summer of 2014 I pursued my first undergraduate student apprenticeship grant through
the Pembroke Undergraduate Research Council (PURC) at the University of North Carolina at
Pembroke. I chose to create a series of copper etchings based off North Carolinian plants and
animals. During this time I studied, photographed, and lastly illustrated images in the style of
John James Audubon. I closely observed wildlife at the NC Botanical Gardens in Chapel Hill
and chose to focus on the more gruesome and frightening aspects of nature. I used the results of
my research to not only depict some of the unique scenes I observed, but utilized my newfound
knowledge to create an unusual carnivorous plant species which is part common vampire bat
and part moon plant. I am currently furthering my research in the field of flora and fauna by
creating more etchings of hybrid species in hopes to not only gain the necessary skills which will
enable me to successfully illustrate the beauty and variety of our states wildlife, but also take the
2-D images and convert them to realistic 3-D versions formed out of ceramic and living plant
material.
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Student Author(s): William Hoffmann, Junior, Chemical Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Jan Genzer, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Chemical & Biomolecular, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room
1 Poster Number 56
Modification of polymer coatings for protein repellency
Polymer coatings govern interaction between the material onto which they are applied and the
surrounding environment. One can achieve complete control over the properties of the coatings,
and thus their response to the outside environment by varying the chemical composition,
molecular weight, topology of the polymers and the overall topography of the coating. In this
work, we develop a family of functional coatings whose function will be to minimize non-specific
biological adhesion. We employ a family of pyridine-based polymers and alter their properties
by attaching charged side groups thus converting the neutral species into negatively or positively
charged macromolecules or to zwitterionic polymers. Quaternization of poly(4-vinylpyridine)
(P4VP) and poly(2-vinylpyridine) (P2VP) with methyl iodide yielded positively charged
polymers. Betainization of P4VP and P2VP with 1,3-propane sultone produced zwiterionic
polymers, which have been shown to repel proteins. After depositing the films onto the substrate
via spincoating, the films were exposed to UV radiation that immobilized the films on the
substrate by crosslinking. The films were characterized with FTIR and water contact angle.
Protein adhesion studies will be conducted at a later time.
Student Author(s): Megan Hoover, Freshman, Psychology Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Joe Bryan, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Political Science, Oral Session 4, 3:00 - 3:15 PM, Room 7B
Harvesting Justice for Immigrants
Lyndon B. Johnson signed the immigration bill in 1965 and stated, “The land flourished because
it was fed from so many sources--because it was nourished by so many cultures and traditions
and peoples.” In 2012, Alabama passed one of the harshest laws on immigration causing a loss of
about 40% of farm workers. Farmers facing labor shortages cannot expand local economy and
produce the amount needed for the United States’ food consumption. According to the New
American Economy, “labor alone can explain as much as $3.3 billion in missed GDP growth in
2012. It also accounts for $1.4 billion in farm income that wasn’t realized this year.” In 2013, the
Senate proposed an Immigration Bill to allow certain agricultural works and their immediate
family to obtain legal immigration status leading to citizenship. The House, though, would rather
waste billions of the nation’s hard earned money on Border Patrol and loss of agriculture than to
pass a well-designed, comprehensive Bill to benefit the United States’ agricultural industry and
GDP by creating an easier path to citizenship. There needs to be a revisit of this comprehensive
Immigration Bill to the House to fix our broken immigration system and improve the agricultural
industry.
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Student Author(s): Adam Hoxie, Sophomore, Chemistry Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Marina Krcmar, Wake Forest University
Presentation: Communication, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 19
Observing Parent-Child Purchase Related Interactions in a Retail Environment:
Replication and Extension
Given the growing power of children in family decision making, more specifically in grocery and
other purchases, a need exists to determine what variables affect parent-child interactions in
sites where decisions are made: grocery and department stores. This study is a replication and
extension of Buijzen and Valkenberg (2008), in which the authors studied the in-store
interactions of parent-child dyads in grocery stores in the Netherlands. Their hiddenobservation approach made replication of their study difficult and presented us with an
opportunity to expand and quantitatively assess these situations in America. In our study we
visited local grocery and department stores and coded the purchase-related interactions of
parent-child dyads in stores and collected questionnaire data from these dyads as well. Examples
of observed and coded measures include quantity of product requests, child coercive behavior
(begging, crying, negative tone, etc.), and whether parents or children initiated product
interactions. Pertinent variables from the questionnaire include child and parent television
exposure, parent communication strategies, income, and child age. Findings suggest that child
age is significantly negatively correlated with child initiated product requests; child age is
significantly negatively correlated with coercive behavior; control-oriented communication
patterns are significantly negatively related to child coercive behavior and child interactions and
significantly positively correlated with parent initiated interactions.
Student Author(s): Michael Hu, Junior, Biology, Global Health (Double) Duke University
Mentor(s): Vance Fowler, Duke University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 41
Phenotyping Virulence-Correlated Genes of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA)
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a beta-lactam resistant bacterium that
promotes a range of possible infections, including biofilm-based ones such as endocarditis and
device infections. The basis of biofilm production and its effects on virulence in MRSA are
incompletely understood. Our lab previously identified six hypothetical virulence genes that
were associated with biofilm-based infections. Using strains of MRSA in which each of these 6
genes were individually knocked out, I evaluated levels of biofilm production using standard
methods and well-characterized control strains. MRSA knockout strains of genes SAS0928 and
SAS0389 showed significantly decreased (P<0.05) biofilm formation. SAS0928 is listed in the
NCBI database as a hypothetical protein. However, SAS0389 is a hypothetical autolysin;
autolysin activity in other bacteria has been shown to promote biofilm formation. The inhibition
of autolysin activity here suggests a similar role for autolysins in S. aureus. The six knockout
strains are currently being phenotyped using a Galleria melonella larval sepsis assay. The G.
melonella larvae has been used as a valid model of virulence, with an immune system that
approximates the human immune response. The working hypothesis is that biofilm formation
and virulence are correlated.
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Student Author(s): Brendan Huang, Senior, Biology Duke University
Mentor(s): Timothy McMahon , Duke University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Anatomy and Physiology, Oral Session 4, 3:00 - 3:15 PM,
Room 5
Analysis of nitric oxide bioavailability as a function of sickle cell disease therapy
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an hereditary blood disorder that affects hundreds of thousands of
people annually. As of now, there are two major treatments that reduce the effects of SCD - red
blood cell (RBC) transfusion and hydroxyurea. Both treatments primarily decrease the overall
concentration of red blood cells carrying mainly mutated sickle Hb. Since SCD is also associated
with a deficiency in the vasodilator nitric oxide (NO) and its derivatives that bind reversibly to
Hb, NO donor drugs have also been hypothesized to improve conditions. We exposed sickle RBCs
acquired from patients undergoing various therapies with NO donors and measured the impact
on Hb-bound NO or SNO (S-nitrosothiol) levels. Separation of total Hb within SCD RBCs into the
respective variants using ion exchange chromatography (IEX) in a manner that does not degrade
the bound NO/SNO allows assessment of correlation between NO/SNO levels and each Hb
variant. Knowing the variant that most benefits from NO/SNO loading may dictate which
treatment possibilities are most efficacious in ameliorating the symptoms of SCD involving
deficient NO/SNO.
Student Author(s): Tre'Sean Hutchison, Sophomore, Biology Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Subir Nagdas, Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Zoology and Animal Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15
PM, Room 1 Poster Number 51
Identification of PRDX-5 in bovine cauda epididymal sperm
Fertilization, the union of male and female gametes to create offspring, is an intricate biological
process. Epididymal maturation allows sperm to gain forward motility and fertilization
capabilities. The objective of this study is to identify the maturation-dependent plasma
membrane (PM) proteins of the bovine sperm and to elucidate their role in producing
functionally competent spermatozoa. Lectin blot analyses of caput and cauda sperm PM fractions
identified a 17.5kDa Wheat Germ Agglutinin (WGA) binding polypeptide present in the cauda
sperm PM not in the caput sperm PM. The presence of a 17.5kDa polypeptide band in cauda
epididymal fluid suggests that this polypeptide is secreted from the cauda epididymis and binds
to the cauda sperm PM during epididymal transit. Phase separation analysis of cauda sperm PM
revealed that the 17.5kDa polypeptide is an integral membrane protein. Proteomic identification
of the 17.5kDa polypeptide by MALDI-TOF-TOF analysis yielded 13 peptides that matched the
NCBI database sequence ofperoxiredoxin-5 (PRDX5) protein. PRDX5 polypeptide remains
anchored to the PM even after the release of acrosomal contents. We conclude that PRDX5 acts
as an antioxidant enzyme in the epidiymal environment, which is crucial in protecting the viable
sperm population against the damage caused by endogeneous/ exogeneous peroxide.
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Student Author(s): Nicholas Hutton, Sophomore, Political Science Guilford Technical
Community College
Mentor(s): Matthew DeSantis, Guilford Technical Community College
Presentation: Political Science, Oral Session 3, 2:30 - 2:45 PM, Room 7B
United States & China’s Trade Conflict
The United States has been encumbered by the slowest recovery after the worst recession since
the Great Depression, and getting out of it seems almost impossible. It seems to be politically
auspicious for individuals to fault things such as tax policy, government regulation, and national
debt and deficits as reasons for the slow recovery. However, there is one factor that isn’t
politically confrontational: Trade relations. According to many scholars, economies dig out of a
crisis by increasing exports, or increasing the value of exports. The United States is fighting a
losing battle with trade relations with China. My paper will analyze how China’s currency
manipulation has given them the upper hand by making our exports too expensive and their
exports to us too cheap. Our trade relations with China cannot continue on it current path. My
paper suggests that the best way to solve this economic conflict is for the international
community along with the World Trade Organization to pressure China, potentially through the
threat of sanctions, to appreciate its currency to bring forth an even playing field so both
economies can prosper during this recovery.
Student Author(s): Kelechi Ikegwu, Junior, Information Technology North Carolina A&T State
University
Mentor(s): Evelyn Sowells, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Statistics, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number 65
Assessing Biologically Inspired Machine Intelligence for Sustainability Base
NASA Ames Research Center’s Sustainability Base is a 50,000 sq.ft. high-performance office
building targeting a LEED Platinum rating. Sustainability Base generates data from a plug load
management system and also uses a data communication protocol for Building Automation and
Control Networks, which is commonly abbreviated as BACnet. BACnet data and data from plug
loads are generated from Sustainability base. A specific scenario from each dataset is used to
assess Numenta’s Platform for Intelligent Computing (NuPIC), which is a neurobiologicallyinspired machine-learning algorithm. In order to properly assess NuPIC, a rigorous parameter
selection process is required which involves visual, qualitative, quantitative, and semantic cues.
The overall scientific objective is aimed at conducting an assessment of NuPIC’s performance and
comparing it to traditional Machine Learning algorithms. The performance of NuPIC is
measured by the algorithms ability to predict adverse events that occur in future. Essentially the
purpose of this research is to compare whether NuPIC will outperform standard methods,
potentially stimulating research efforts into neuroscience-based algorithms; which may prove
beneficial to future NASA missions and research.
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Student Author(s): Nashmil Islam, Freshman, Biology Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Oral Session 1 , 10:15 - 10:30 AM, Room 6
Altitudinal Study of Wilson Creek
The Wilson Creek Wilderness area is comprised of forty-nine thousand acres of forest, exhibiting
one of North Carolina’s most pristine and rugged environments. The mountainous stream begins
at the peak of 5,920-foot high Grandfather Mountain, 100 yards above the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The majority of Wilson Creek, at a length of 23.3-miles, lies within the Pisgah National Forest.
Wilson Creek was added to the National Wild and Scenic River System in 2000. In order to study
the River Continuum Concept and determine the effects of altitudinal changes in an undisturbed
watershed, benthic macroinvertebrates were collected from three sites in Wilson Creek with
elevations ranging from 1306 to 511 meters. The collected data indicated a positive effect of the
decreasing elevation changes on number of taxa found, number of families collected, total
number of individual macroinvertebrates collected. Additionally, a good correlation between
increased elevation and increased Simpson’s Diversity Index was observed (an indication of
lower diversity with higher elevation). However, the North Carolina Biological Index scores
showed less correlation to elevation changes. The results of this study support the importance of
the River Continuum Concept in interpreting data which compares aquatic insect communities
from different reaches of the same stream system.
Student Author(s): Aiperi Iusupova, Sophomore, Health Sciences, Chemistry and Biology
Guilford College
Mentor(s): Daniel Christen, Guilford College
Presentation: Chemistry - Physical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 35
Peroxy-radical-mediated Chemiluminescence and Synthesis of Novel Analogs
Chemiluminescence is the emission of light which occurs upon the decay of excited electrons to
the ground state during chemical reactions. The current research aims to understand peroxyradical-mediated chemiluminescence by synthesizing novel analogs to probe the mechanism of
the reaction.
Student Author(s): Aruna Iyer, Sophomore, Microbiology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Carlos Goller, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 26
PCR detection of Delftia acidovorans in Samples from Sinks
The human home contains communities of microbes rich with genetic potential. Delftia
acidovorans,a gram-negative bacterium found in soil, water, and kitchen sinks, is one such
microbe. Delftia acidovorans has been linked to several cases of human infection, meriting
additional attention due to clinical and environmental significance. We obtained five different
strains of Delftia sp. from the American Tissue Culture Collection and universities. PCR reactions
with 16S ribosomal gene primers were used to confirm that the strains received were Delftia.
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Two of the Delftia isolates we studied are sequenced (Delftia sp. Cs1-4 and Delftia acidovorans
SPH-1). Using several bioinformatic tools, we developed PCR primers to identify Delftia in
environmental samples by searching the published genomes for genes that were likely to be
unique to the genus or strain. The strain-specific primers we developed are able to amplify pure
genomic DNA from the tested Delftia sp. strains. These primers were used to detect down to 0.01
ng of D. acidovorans DNA using Real Time PCR. This suggests that our primers may be used to
identify small quantities of Delftia in larger microbial communities. In parallel, we also
developed a method of swabbing sinks and isolating genomic DNA from the microbes that
inhabit them. We will apply our approach for detecting Delftia to the DNA obtained from kitchen
sinks and water fountains in order to assess the prevalence of this organism in our surroundings.
Student Author(s): Othmane Jadi, Freshman, Botany University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Oral Session 1 , 9:30 - 9:45 AM, Room 6
Effect of Climate Change on Pollination
The Earth is getting warmer: global temperatures have been predicted to increase by 2°C in the
next century. Although this change seems insignificant, it has a significant impact on wildlife and
ecosystems around the world. This paper analyzes what the effect of this warming trend has on
the pollination of flowering plants through changes in insect behavior and plant physiology.
Specifically, it examines the behavioral effects of different weather on pollinator activity. This
was done by interpreting pollinator activity on the Grandfather Mountain butterfly garden
during two different weather conditions. By concluding that warmer weather reduced pollinator
activity, it was concluded that global warming trends may cause a decrease in pollination over
time. Another study on the effect of temperature on Arabidepsis was analyzed and related to
current climate change trends. The study showed a decrease in flowers and fruits in plants that
were heat-treated. This research led to the conclusion that increased temperatures due to
climate change would cause physiological modifications in certain plants, such as reduced
amount of flowers, and would lead to decreased pollination.
Student Author(s): Elizabeth Jaimes Landa, Senior, Chemistry Meredith College
Mentor(s): Amy Johnson, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 46
FATP1 deletion in macrophages leads to increased liver triglyceride accumulation in high
fat diet-fed mice
FATP1 is a novel regulator of MΦ polarization and its expression is involved in determining the
inflammatory status of macrophages. The purpose of our study was to determine the effect of
deleting FATP1 from macrophages on susceptibility to obesity. Mice were randomly weaned into
either a hight or low fat diet. To generate mice lacking FATP1 expression in their macrophages,
C57BL/6 male recipient mice were lethally irradiated and transplanted with bone marrow from
either FATP1+/+ or FATP1-/- mice to generate chimeric mice harboring either FATP1+/+
(FATP1B+/+) or FATP1-/- bone marrow (FATP1B-/-). We studied the effects of macrophage
FATP1 deletion on the liver of these animals. Examination of H&E stained liver slides revealed a
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higher presence of lipids in the livers of HFD FATP1B-/- mice. We found that HFD FATP1B-/mice had 33% more triglyceride than HFD FATP1B+/+ mice. DNA genotyping demonstrated that
the FATP1-/- macrophages had infiltrated the liver. Immunohistochemistry for F4/80 was
performed and allowed visualization of macrophages within the liver. Statistical analysis of this
data did not show any significant differences in the amount of macrophages present among the
four test groups. We conclude that deletion of FATP1 from macrophages results in increased
lipid accumulation within the liver and more studies are necessary for understanding the cause
of this observation. Understanding metabolic regulation of MΦ-mediated inflammation is
necessary to clarify how changes within the tissue microenvironment may contribute to diseases
such as insulin insensitivity/diabetes or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Student Author(s): Eileen Jakeway, Junior, English University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Jaden Barney, Junior, Mechanical Engineering, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Austin Philemon, Sophomore, Organ Performance , University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Diane Zablotsky, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Arts - Performing, Oral Session 1 , 9:30 - 9:45 AM, Room 8B
The Last Question Opera Performance
The aim of this project is to bring together a team of students across disciplines including music,
visual arts, theatre, dance engineering and architecture to collaborate in the creation of an opera
adaptation of The Last Question by Isaac Asimov that integrates robots into the performance.
This production is designed and intended to stretch the boundaries of what the community
perceives opera to be through the integrative use of robots on stage to assist in the telling of the
story. Beyond this, the literary questions posed by the text will prompt the audience to ask
themselves about ethical quagmires encountered daily in our ever-evolving environments.
Lastly, the production will introduce new people to the arts in general to prove that it is possible
to blend the best of all these worlds into one unified production. This project utilizes digital
technology to bring Asimov’s futuristic, apocalyptic story to the stage. The integration of robots
in the performance will question the ever-increasing presence of technology in our culture by
blending technology with art so that the audience will not know the difference. In addition to the
robots, we plan to use digital animation to assist in the telling of the story which takes place
hundreds and then thousands of years in the future, progressing rapidly in a total of five
segments. By successfully bringing together a cross-disciplinary team, we hope to show that the
arts and science and technology can harmoniously work together to create something beautiful
and meaningful.
Student Author(s): Payton James, Senior, Studio Art University of North Carolina - Asheville
Mentor(s): Robert Tynes, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Presentation: Arts - Visual, Exhibits, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Creating a Liminal Space with Paint
Standing in a threshold, physically or mentally, can be quite stimulating. At the same time, it can
be entirely thoughtless, as most people pass through these margins focusing only on their
destination. This region is known as a “liminal space,” the area that individuals pass through
when they go through a doorway. Such liminal spaces serve as passageways from one district to
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another. At times, this liminal space can be difficult to recognize, as it is a less defined territory.
The transition through a liminal space is so brief that it is frequently overlooked and unnoticed.
However, these short, transitional passes are quite significant as they can hold much meaning.
Liminality is commonly brought up in an anthropological context when discussing rites of
passage. However, there are many other aspects of life in which one goes through this
transitional phase, not only in physical and anthropological contexts, but also psychologically
and spiritually. This research will present itself in a series of paintings that will place viewers in
several transitional zones, which will provoke the formulation of questions in their minds.
Doorways have a clear liminal breadth, yet are sometimes overlooked. By using a naturalistic
trompe l’oeil approach, painted “doors” that serve as thresholds will place viewers in a liminal
space that will cause them to question their presence in that location.
Student Author(s): Lukas Janes, Senior, Biology & Pre-Med Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Vinson Sutlive, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Anatomy and Physiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM,
Room 1 Poster Number 8
Transition From A Walking Gait to Running Gait
As velocity of locomotion increases, humans and other bipeds transition from a walking gait to a
running gait (Gatesy & Biewener,1991). Walking is characterized by a period of double-support,
whereas running has a flight phase. Both walking and running velocity are a function of a
person’s leg length and step frequency. The Froude number represents the average ratio of the
specified body's inertia to the gravitational force. The Froude number (Fr) is a dimensionless
ratio calculated as Fr = v2 / gL, where v = velocity, g = acceleration due to gravity (9.81m/s2),
and L = leg length. The natural transition from walking to running occurs when these combined
factors produce Fr = 0.50. The purpose is to see if, when leg length is known, Froude's equation
accurately predicts the walk-to-run transition. Leg length for each subject will be measured in
the beginning of each trial (Hoppenfeld, 1976). Each subject will begin by walking on a treadmill
at a comfortable velocity. Every 15 seconds, the treadmill velocity will be increased by 0.10 mph
(0.045 m/sec) until he/she makes an observable gait transition. The procedure will be repeated
three times; if any two of the three trials were identical, that transition velocity was recorded. If
all three trials were different, the middle value will be used. If the hypothesis is correct, there
should be a high correlation between predicted and actual transition velocities.
Student Author(s): Stephanie Jensen, Senior, Biology Duke University
Mentor(s): Qiu Wang, Duke University
Presentation: Chemistry - General, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 22
Synthesis of Aminoarene Pharmacophores Towards Novel Antipsychotics
Through modifications of existing antipsychotics, a library of novel pharmacophores has been
synthesized through diversification of the aminoarene motif. More than 21 million people
worldwide are affected by schizophrenia and as many as 51 million suffer from bipolar
disorder.These two diseases, along with a variety of other psychiatric disorders, are mediated by
complex interactions of the dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways. Much is left to be
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elucidated about the role of these interactions in pathologies, rendering the necessity of novel
pharmacophores that can mediate these systems through dual activity at dopamine and
serotonin receptors. Existing compounds with complex activities at these receptors include the
atypical antipsychotics, aripiprazole and cariprazine. A key structural commonality shared by
these compounds is the aminoarene motif, implicating its importance for psychoactivity.
Previously, structural diversification of these compounds has been limited by difficulty in
accessing this aminoarene motif. However, by using aryne insertion into aminohalide bonds and
copper catalyzed aminations, new aminoarenes have been accessed. Through installation of
modified aminoarenes into the aripiprazole and cariprazine scaffolds, the effects of these
alterations on functionality may be explored. A library of novel aripiprazole and cariprazine
analogs has been synthesized that demonstrates unique biological activity with potential
pharmacological utility.
Student Author(s): Mary Johnson, Senior, Biology University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Mentor(s): Len Holmes, University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Oral Session 4, 3:15 - 3:30 PM, Room 6
Mass Production of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Using Solid State Fermentation
Technology
The focus of our research is to mass produce the beneficial nematode, Heterorhabditis
bacteriophora as a bio-control agent (biopesticide) using solid media. Photorhabdus luminescens
is a biphasic, gram negative, bioluminescent bacterium that maintains a symbiotic relationship
with H. bacteriophora providing a breeding ground for nematode reproduction. The process of
growing these nematodes is to upscale the surface area of a solid agar media, thus increasing the
yield of nematodes. After harvesting, the nematodes are sanitized and stored for further use. As
an initial scale, the surface of a petri dish (60 cm²) is inoculated with approximately 500
nematodes per cm², harvesting yields of approximately 8000 nematodes per cm² after 7 days.
Our objective is to scale-up this process using larger surface area for greater yield.
Student Author(s): Dana Johnson, Senior, Mathematical Statistics Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Robert Erhardt, Wake Forest University
Presentation: Statistics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 41
Projected Impacts of Climate Change on Wind Energy Density in the United States
Abstract: Wind-generated electricity is a growing renewable energy resource. Because wind
results from the uneven heating (and resulting pressure gradients) of the Earth, future wind
resources may be affected by anticipated climate change. Many studies have used global and
regional climate models to predict trends in the future wind resource over the continental
United States. While some of these studies identified regions that are expected to gain wind
energy, their results often came with a high degree of uncertainty, and lack of agreement across
different climate models. In this paper we focus on wind energy density as a measure of the
available wind resource over the continental United States. We estimate the change in wind
energy density from the period 1968-2000 to the period 2038-2070 by using output from four
regional climate models from the North American Regional Climate Change Assessment Program
(NARCCAP). We find strong agreement across all 4 models that the wind energy resource is
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expected to increase in parts of Kansas, Oklahoma, and northern Texas - a region already in
possession of both large scale generating capacity and political support for wind energy.
Student Author(s): Justin Jones, Junior, Biology Saint Augustine’s University
Mentor(s): Federico Hoffmann, Mars Hill College
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 47
Evolution of the MYB gene family of transcription factors.
The MYB protein family is a group of transcription factors that regulates the expression of
several target genes. Studies based on mouse identified one member of the MYB family, A-MYB,
as one of the major transcription factors regulating the expression of PIWI interacting (piRNA)
clusters. These clusters act as the source of piRNAs, a class of small RNAs involved in protecting
genome integrity by repressing the activity of transposable elements. At present, there is great
interest in elucidating how piRNAs are regulated, expressed, and processed. A reconstruction of
the evolutionary history of the MYB family can shed light on when the association between AMYB and piRNA clusters emerged. To do this we first queried MYB nucleotide sequences from
both vertebrate and invertebrate genomes, and reconstructed the evolutionary history using
phylogentic methods. With a few notable exceptions, MYBs were generally absent from
invertebrate genomes. Interestingly, the expansion of the MYB family is notable in the early
stages of vertebrate evolution: The presence of three MYB paralogs, A-MYB, B-MYB and C-MYB
maps to the early branches of the vertebrate tree. Although the trees would suggest the
duplications giving rise to these genes are shared between cyclostomes and gnathostomes, the
former have lost traces of A-MYB. Our results would indicate that the involvement of A-MYB in
regulating the expression of piRNA clusters might trace back to the common ancestor of teleost
fish and tetrapods, approximately 400 million years ago.
Student Author(s): Gauri Joshi, Freshman, General Enloe High School
Mentor(s): Heike Sederoff, North Carolina State University
Mia Dvora North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Plant Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 7
Phenotypic characterization of Camelina sativa with suppressed cell wall invertase
inhibitor expression
The aim of the project is to increase the seed production of Camelina sativa by genetic
modification. Camelina sativa is an oilseed plant. In plants, source tissues like green leaves
perform photosynthesis to produce sugars like sucrose. Non-photosynthetic sink tissues, such as
seeds and roots are supplied with sucrose by the source tissue. The transport of sucrose from
sink to source requires its passage through the cell wall. The plant uses cell wall invertase (CWI)
– an enzyme that breaks down sucrose into fructose and glucose – to control the flow of sucrose
from source to sink tissues. The activity of this enzyme is regulated by the CWI-Inhibitor (CWII),
which allows the plant to control the transport of sucrose. We genetically engineered Camelina
to silence this cell invertase inhibitor to increase the amount of sucrose transported to seeds. We
evaluated the effect of silencing this inhibitor on the Camelina plant by measureing phenotypes
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such as plant height, number of leaves, number of siliques, flowering time, and seed yield of
CWII-silenced plants versus wild type controls. The degree of improvement appears to be
dependent on growth conditions. The CWII-silenced plants showed an early slight advantage
over the controls.
Student Author(s): Hamid Kamara, Senior, Chemistry Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Shubo Han, Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Nanoscience, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 32
Quercetin Coordination with Cu (II) and Its Role in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Quercetin, one of the flavonoids, was reported to be a promising candidate to treat Alzheimer's
disease and Parkinson’s disease as a strong antioxidant to clean reactive oxygen species. It was
also found as a ligand to coordinate with heavy metals, which may trigger the protein
aggregation, causing the diseases. By using UV-Vis spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry,
quercetin and Cu (II) coordination was investigated and the surface electrochemical behavior
was observed. Continuous variation method was used to measure the mole ratio and
equilibrium constant of the complexation between quercetin and Cu (II). Influence of the
coordination on the antioxidant activity was evaluated.
Student Author(s): Ghallia Kaouk, Junior, Biology University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Nathaniel Fried, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Physics - Biophysics, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 61
Nerve Priming and Fatigue Studies of the Rat Prostate Cavernous Nerves, In Vivo, during
Optical and Electrical Stimulation
Optical nerve stimulation (ONS) is being explored as an alternative to electrical nerve
stimulation (ENS) for use as an intraoperative diagnostic method for identification and
preservation of cavernous nerves (CNs) during prostate cancer surgery. Continuous wave,
infrared laser irradiation of CNs produces an intracavernous pressure (ICP) response in
rats. Nerve priming and fatigue studies were performed to further characterize CNs and provide
insight into ONS mechanisms. ENS studies were conducted for comparison. ENS was performed
with standard parameters (4V, 5ms, 16Hz) for fatigue studies, but incrementally
increasing/decreasing voltage (0.1-4.0V) for priming studies. For ONS priming studies, a
1455nm diode laser coupled to fiber optic probe delivered 1mm diameter laser spot on CNs, and
laser power was escalated (15-60mW) for 15s, until a strong ICP response was observed, and
then power was deescalated. Fatigue studies were performed at constant laser power (ONS) or
voltage (ENS) for 10min. A total of 19 rats were studied. Stimulation threshold was ~20%
higher during initial escalating laser power steps (6.4W/cm2) than in subsequently deescalating
laser power steps (5.1W/cm2), demonstrating nerve priming. No evidence of nerve priming
during ENS was observed. For fatigue studies, ONS showed a peak ICP response at ~60s,
followed by gradual decay in ICP, while ENS maintained strong, but cyclical ICP. Nerve priming
may allow repetitive ONS of CNs at lower and safer laser power. Nerve fatigue studies revealed
different ICP response curves for ONS and ENS.
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Student Author(s): Nick Kapur, Senior, Statistics North Carolina State University
Michael Dickey, Senior, Statistics, North Carolina State University
Kristin Glaze, Senior, Statistics & Applied Mathematics, North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Brian Eder, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Statistics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 42
Changes in Agricultural Growing Season Length in North Carolina
In April 2007, North Carolina experienced a late freeze resulting in crop losses exceeding $100
million as estimated by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service. Understanding the
frequency of such events is important in order to minimize their impact.Accordingly, the NC
State Climate Office (SCO) has asked our team to develop a climatology of growing season length
across the State and to determine if this length has changed. We obtained daily minimum
temperature data from the SCO from 1960 to 2014 for eight representative locations, one from
each of North Carolina’s climate divisions. These locations include: Asheville, Boone, Charlotte,
Elizabeth City, Greensboro, Greenville, Raleigh, and Wilmington. We will utilize regression
technique for each of these locations to assess trends in the average length of the growing season
defined as the length of time between the first and last days of freezing temperatures.
Student Author(s): Devon Keeler, Senior, Marine Biology University of North Carolina Wilmington
Mentor(s): Jennifer McCall, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Toxicology, Oral Session 3, 2:30 - 2:45 PM, Room 5
Evaluation of several bioassays for detection of brevetoxins
Karenia brevis is a marine dinoflagellate responsible for harmful algal blooms off the Florida
coast. It produces the neurotoxic brevetoxins (PbTxs), which cause massive fish kills, marine
animal mortalities, and neurotoxic shellfish poisoning in humans. Rapid, inexpensive, and userfriendly tests for PbTxs are needed to monitor blooms and shellfish contamination. To examine
the efficacy of three rapid bioassays, pure samples of four PbTx congeners and eight unknown K.
brevis extracts were tested on ELISA immunoassays, fluorescent binding assays (FBA), and
cytoxicity assays. The ELISA detected the presence of only type B PbTxs. The FBA was only
effective at detecting toxic PbTxs, regardless of type. Surprisingly, it was found that only PbTx-1
and PbTx-2 congeners caused cell death in the cytotoxicity assay, which was unexpected because
previous studies had indicated that PbTx-3 should also be toxic. These studies illustrate the
strengths and weaknesses of each rapid bioassay in testing for PbTxs.
Student Author(s): Glenn Keener, Sophomore, Computer Science Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Rahman Tashakkori, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Oral Session 3, 2:00 - 2:15 PM, Room 4
Using Kinect to Spell English Words
The Kinect sensor allows tracking the human skeleton in 3D space. This presentation provides
details on how C# programming language along with the Windows Platform Foundation (WPF),
and Kinect SDK can be used to map different poses to letters of English Alphabet. By providing a
graphical interface the users can then input different sequence of letters together to spell an
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English word. The program is packaged as a game called Spellotron which is freely available for
download. The program allows children in different grade levels to select words of appropriate
difficulty to try. The game provides statistics on the amount of time it took for users to spell a
word, thus can help students improve their speed of spelling while also exercising. This game
provides a model for utilizing MS Kinect for educational purposes.
Student Author(s): Jessica Kellam, Freshman, History Guilford College
Mentor(s): Betty Kane, Guilford College
Presentation: Business, Oral Session 2, 11:15 - 11:30 AM, Room 7A
A Legal Analysis of the 2014 Dan River Coal Ash Spill
This research examines the history, causes, and potential legal impact of the 2014 Duke Energy
coal ash spill at the Dan River. The spill devastated the surrounding area and raised
environmental law and ethical questions concerning the Clean Water Act. While many studies
have been done regarding the impact of past coal ash spills, little has been done analyzing the
one at the Dan River site, given how recent it was. This research attempts to present the full
story of the Dan River spill, provide the historical context of previous coal ash disasters, examine
the ethical concerns raised by many environmentalists, and discuss the potential legal
implications of coal ash spills in regards to the Clean Water Act. This research primarily draws
on the examination and interpretation of environmental legislation specifically regarding coal
ash, newspaper articles at the time of the spill, and the Duke Energy website.
Student Author(s): Pranav Kemburu, Freshman, Science NC School of Science and Mathematics
Mentor(s): Adrienne Stiff-Roberts, Duke University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 31
A Computational and Statistical Analysis Examining the Impact of Polymers, Orientations,
and Structure on Organic Solar Cell Performance using a Semi-Empirical Monte Carlo
Model
Organic solar cells show potential for producing cheaper energy than other available alternative
energy sources. With an active layer created out of a polymer:fullerene blend, organic
photovoltaic (OPV) cells are more versatile than inorganic solar cells. Despite these advantages,
OPV’s demonstrate lower efficiencies than inorganic due to fundamental differences in the
physics of device operation. One way to raise the efficiency is to better understand how
polymers, molecular orientations and structure impacts device performance through the
Dynamic Monte Carlo (DMC) simulation. The DMC simulation models the power converting
process within cells; examining the particles interacting within, thus allowing testing of
polymers PCDTBT, PSBTBT, PCPDTBT, PTB7, and P3HT. The DMC simulation is conducted using
electrical parameters, such as carrier mobilities. Within our study we include new parameters,
[100] and [010] stacking determined by GI-WAXS measurements, that have not been
implemented before, and examined the effects of replacing PEDOT-PSS with Graphene Oxide. It is
shown that Graphene Oxide is a slightly less efficient hole-transporting layer. Our simulation
showed an efficiency preference for the [010] orientation, with the rare polymer preferring the
[100]. This differs from previous works, and shows the potential for interesting studies on how
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orientation can impact OPV’s.
Student Author(s): Kelly Kerschner, Senior, Public Health Studies East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Beth Thompson, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Plant Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 5
Analysis of the miR319-target tcptf24 in the maize inflorescence
Maize inflorescences are essential for reproduction and also produce seeds that are consumed as
food. To understand the genetics pathways that control normal inflorescence development, we
study mutants with abnormal inflorescence development. A major focus of the Thompson
laboratory is the maize fuzzy tassel (fzt) mutant, which has severe inflorescence defects. fzt
contains a mutation in dicer-like 1 (dcl1), which encodes a key enzyme required for microRNA
(miRNA) biogenesis. miRNAs are 20-22-long RNAs that repress gene expression by directed RNA
cleavage or translational inhibition . In fzt mutants, some miRNAs are dramatically decreased,
while others are moderately decreased or unchanged. MiR319 is reduced approximately 8-fold
in fzt mutants, and is predicted to target mRNAs that encode TCP transcription factors. We
hypothesize that reduced miR319 levels may lead to increased or ectopic expression of TCP
target genes and be responsible for a subset of the fzt defects. My project focuses on one miR319
target, tcptf24. . I am using RNA in situ hybridization to examine expression of tcptf24 in normal
and fzt tassel primordia. These experiments will give insight into the role of tcptf24 in normal
development and also how misegulation of tcptf24 might contribute to fzt mutant defects
Student Author(s): Meagan Keziah, Senior, English University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Mentor(s): Ashley Reed, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: English, Exhibits, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Prudence Person Scrapbook - Annotated Digital Edition
We are developing an annotated digital edition of Prudence Person’s scrapbook, a one-of-a-kind
artifact in UNC Chapel Hill’s Rare Books Collection. Prudence Person was a resident of Louisburg,
NC, and her scrapbook includes newspaper and magazine clippings published between the
1860s and the 1920s. It thus offers a window into postbellum print culture, central North
Carolina society, and practices of information sharing and preservation in the nineteenth and
early twentieth centuries. Person’s scrapbook is extensive and well preserved, so it provides an
excellent specimen for historical research; Person herself was from a prominent but not famous
family, so her scrapbook represents the concerns of an average middle-class southern woman in
the post-Civil War period. The digital edition will include original annotations and scholarly
essays that will provide historical context for visitors. We are building the annotated digital
edition using the Scalar digital publishing platform, which is designed specifically for researchers
interested in creating digital books. Our final result will be a public digital edition that offers
insight into nineteenth-century culture and tests the capabilities of the Scalar platform for this
kind of student-created digital project.
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Student Author(s): Brandon Klapheke, Junior, Biological Sciences- Molecular, Cellular, and
Developmental North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): John Godwin, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 69
Development of a cFos in situ hybridization probe to measure neuronal activation as a
response to stress in Thalassoma bifasciatum
Exposure to a stressor causes increased neuronal activation in the brains of vertebrates. cFos is
an early-intermediate gene that is transcribed in areas of the brain in which activation is
occurring, and it can be used to measure brain activation as a result of various stimuli and
environments. I will be measuring cFos expression using an in situ hybridization assay to
determine the brain areas that are activated during stressful conditions. Bluehead wrasses
(Thalassoma bifasciatum) were sacrificed immediately after capture from Florida reefs
(unstressed) or were kept in isolation for 30 minutes before sacrifice (stressed). This particular
project details the design and testing of my in situ probes and in situ hybridization assay. I
expect to only have color signal on slides hybridized with my antisense probe, and I also expect
to see more color signal, which indicates more cFos expression and neuronal activation, in the
brains of stressed fish than in the brains of unstressed fish. These findings will be compared to
findings in zebrafish, in order to see which brain regions are conserved across fish species in
stress responses.
Student Author(s): Sydney Knoechel, Senior, Mathematical Economics, Actuarial Science High
Point University
Mentor(s): Peter Summers, High Point University
Presentation: Economics, Oral Session 4, 3:00 - 3:15 PM, Room 4
The Effectiveness of Laws Pertaining to Education and Women in India
Since the British Raj there has been a slowly growing movement in India to create laws that
promote education and elevate the status of women. This research paper explores the
effectiveness of laws in India toward improving education and the rights of women. The central
question being investigated is whether passing laws in India is an effective means to change
social behaviorisms or whether the instilled culture prevails in dictating educational attainment
and women’s rights. Regression analysis is used to model factors that are significant indicators of
the economic variable the law is designed to change. Hypothesis testing and confidence intervals
ascertain whether there is a significant difference in the variables of the law from before the law
is passed to after. Preliminary results find that there has been an increase in the percentage of
children ages 6 to 14 attending primary school in India since the passage of a law on the right to
primary education. The percentage of girls completing a primary school education has also risen
to be comparable with the percentage of boys completing a primary education. However, these
laws do not appear to have been as successful in increasing higher-level educational attainment
and teaching on par with developed countries.
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Student Author(s): Camille Knudsen, Junior, Art History University of North Carolina Greensboro
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Perrill, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Arts - Visual, Oral Session 2, 10:45 - 11:00 AM, Room 8B
Baekja: The Last Korean Pottery
Baekja pottery, or white porcelain, is not merely Confucian in its form and style, but reflects the
values of Chinese Neo-Confucianism, as expressed during the Choseon Dynasty in Korea (13921897). The white color of the clay body and blue pigment paintings on these vessels reflect NeoConfucian aesthetics that valued of frugality, emotional control, and purity. The yangban class,
the noble class, used Baekja pottery in Confucian rituals and as functional pieces in palaces.
Though the nobi peasantry ran the kilns, they had no part in the decoration of the ceramics
which was instead controlled by the literati, educated male nobles, and the painters of the royal
court. This division reinforced Neo-Confucianism guidelines of class roles. Japanese warlords
relocated the majority of potters from Korea to Japan in 1592, which lead to the stagnation of
innovation in the Korean field of pottery and marked the end of the highly regarded Baekja
period.
Student Author(s): Mallory Koch, Senior, Secondary Social Studies Education University of
North Carolina - Pembroke
Mentor(s): Jaime Martinez, University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Presentation: History, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 22
Occupational Shifts for Women in Wilmington, NC, 1850-1860
In 1860 a radical change occurred for the enumerators of the United States census: they were
now required to indicate female wage earners over the age of 15 in their lists. This was altered
from 1850 when only male wage earners over the age of 15 were included in the census. This
was an important shift because it brought female wage labor into the light and finally gave
women standardized government recognition. What happened between 1850 and 1860 that
forced this change? Why did the government begin to recognize female wage labor? The main
cause was that female labor outside the family was becoming more important and necessary, as
wage-earning men alone could no longer provide for their families. This was a result from the
industrial boom of the early 19th century that greatly increased the number of jobs, while
simultaneously pushing up prices but not wages. This placed the burden on women to join their
husbands in the workforce so that this discrepancy could be alleviated. This change is apparent
in the Wilmington, NC census as nearly twenty exclusively female professions emerged in the
1860 census that were not present in the 1850 census.
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Student Author(s): Ellen Koerner, Senior, Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology North
Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Antonio Planchart, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 36
Characterization of the Phosphorylation State of FOXQ1 and its Possible Role in the
Regulation of Hedgehog Signaling
The development of an organism is a complex and still largely unknown process. Using the
zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model organism, we study a specific pathway in vertebrate
embryonic development, called the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway, which is responsible for
many biological processes, including patterning of the vertebrate head. Our lab has obtained
preliminary evidence suggesting that the transcription factor, FOXQ1, regulates the Hedgehog
signaling pathway. Consistent with this, when we knock down FOXQ1 in zebrafish, we observe
severe craniofacial abnormalities. Using bioinformatics techniques, we have identified
evolutionarily conserved serine residues on FOXQ1 that are predicted targets of
phosphorylation, which is a reversible post-translational protein modification with potentially
important effects on a protein’s function. My project aims to determine if FOXQ1 is a target of
phosphorylation and, if so, whether its phosphorylation state plays a role in regulating Hedgehog
signaling. Using a variety of techniques, we are characterizing the phosphorylation state of
FOXQ1. Should this be the case, we will identify the modified serine residue(s) and mutagenize it
to determine whether loss of phosphorylation potential alters expression of Hedgehog signaling
genes, which would indicate a critical role for phosphorylation of FOXQ1 in the regulation of
Hedgehog signaling. Our research will contribute to greater understanding of the mechanisms by
which FOXQ1 regulates Hedgehog signaling.
Student Author(s): Ashkon Koucheki, Senior, Psychology University of North Carolina Greensboro
Mentor(s): George Michel, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 9
Lateralization and the Performance of ‘active’ and ‘rejection’ Types of Unimanual
Manipulations..
Kimmerle et al. (1995) suggested that between ages 6 and 11 months unimanual manipulation
becomes a significant part of infants’ manual repertoire. They found no significant change in
frequency and types of manual manipulations from 7 to 11 months and proposed that the skill of
unimanual manipulation remains quite stable during this period. The objective of the current
study was to explore the development of different actions representing unimanual
manipulation. Unimanual manipulation patterns for 90 (57 males) normally developing infants
were examined monthly from 6 to 14 months of age. Infants were matched on hand preference
for acquisition (30 in each group). Handedness for acquiring objects was determined based on
monthly observations using a valid assessment of handedness (Michel, Ovrut, & Harkins,
1986). A unimanual manipulation procedure was performed, which involved 17 trials of placing
two identical items in each of the infant’s hands. The actions performed by each hand (shaking,
hitting, scraping, mouthing, clacking, picking up, rotating, and taking) were analyzed for each
monthly visit. These unimanual actions were divided according to ‘active’ and ‘rejection’ types of
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manipulation. The results show that infants who are lateralized for acquisition hand preference
differ from non-lateralized infants on active unimanual manipulations such that they perform
more actions from 9 to 14 months. Lateralized infants also differ from non-lateralized infants
such that they perform fewer rejection actions at all ages. [NSF grant DLS 0718045 to GFM and
NIH T32HD007376 to Julie Campbell]
Student Author(s): Ian Krintz, Senior, Physics Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Jim Sherman, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Atmospheric Sciences, Oral Session 2, 11:15 - 11:30 AM, Room 7B
A Study of Aerosol Optical and Chemical Properties from the Perspectives of Source
Region, Local, and Synoptic Meteorology During Summer 2013 at a Southeast US
Regionally Representative Site
An intensive summer 2013 aerosol field campaign was conducted at the Appalachian
Atmospheric Interdisciplinary Research facility at Appalachian State University (AppalAIR),
coinciding with the SOAS campaign in the SE U.S. Measurements included lower tropospheric
and column-averaged aerosol properties as part of the NOAA-ESRL and NASA AERONET, lidarderived vertical profiles of aerosols and clouds, surface and vertical meteorology, and aerosol
and organic precursor chemical composition. Clustered 120-hour HYSPLIT back-trajectories
were used to determine the influence of source region on aerosol properties and composition. A
synoptic-scale weather classification scheme (Sheridan 2000) was applied to bin the aerosol
properties by synoptic weather type. Co-located near-surface T, P, and RH measurements and
vertical profiles from 75 radiosonde launches were used to determine the influence of local
meteorology on the aerosol properties. The anomalously cool, wet summer dampened and
delayed the summer peak in aerosol scattering and absorption relative to previous summers and
limited the number of sunphotometer retrievals of column-averaged aerosol properties.
Nevertheless, aerosol loading, composition, and optical properties displayed distinct dependence
on source region and meteorology. The range of temperatures observed during summer 2013
was much less than previous summers, making it difficult to draw significant conclusions based
solely on the summer 2013 data. Aerosol optical properties from summer 2013 will also be
placed in a longer-term context by comparisons with those from previous summers.
Student Author(s): Molly Kuo, Senior, Biology Duke University
Mentor(s): Beth Sullivan, Duke University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 39
Genomic mechanisms underlying centromere assembly and chromosome stability
An essential component in maintaining genome stability is the centromere, the site of
kinetochore formation. While both genomic and epigenetic mechanisms are thought to specify
centromere identity, the contributions of each remain unclear. We investigated the human
chromosome 17 (HSA17) centromere, which has two alpha satellite arrays, or two locations
where the centromere can form: D17Z1 and D17Z1-B. Either locus can be the site of assembly,
but it is unclear what determines the location. To investigate whether size of the arrays is linked
to centromere specification, we used DNA fibers and FISH to identify and measure the arrays to
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determine the size of the D17Z1-B array, which is unknown. We also investigated whether the
site of centromere assembly affects mitotic chromosome stability. We determined the extent of
instability varies among and within cell lines. To investigate mechanisms underlying HSA17
instability, particularly a somatic cell hybrid line showing variable instability, we identified
higher order repeat (HOR) variants in stable versus unstable single cell clones. The unstable
clone lacks sequence polymorphisms present in the parental line, suggesting that a change in
HOR structure and/or a deletion of the part of the array leads to instability. These studies
provide insight into the molecular pathways leading to HSA17 errors, which are associated with
several congenital and acquired disorders. Understanding the organization and behavior of the
HSA17 centromere has implications for both basic biology and medicine.
Student Author(s): Divya Lakshminarayanan, Senior, Statistics North Carolina State University
Hannah Kuan, Senior, Environmental Sciences, North Carolina State University
Dan Thomas Oliver, Junior, Statistics, North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Brian Eder, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Statistics, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number 68
Has the Impact of the El Nino Southern Oscillation on North Carolina's Climate Changed?
El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in
the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. A relationship between ENSO and meteorology in North
Carolina has already been established. Our team will determine whether this relationship has
changed over time by examining temperature and precipitation data provided by our client, the
North Carolina State Climate Office. The data utilized in the study will be from 1951-2013 from
all of the three main climate regions in North Carolina (Mountains, Piedmont, and Coastal Plain).
The Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) will be used to quantify the strength of ENSO during the respective
time period. We will try to establish a relationship between the ONI index and standardized
temperatures and precipitations using regression models for each season, in each region, and
determine if this relationship has changed.
Student Author(s): Rob Lampe, Senior, Biology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Astrid Schnetzer, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Marine Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 56
The Production and Fate of a Marine Algal Toxin
Pseudo-nitzschia is a ubiquitous diatom known to produce the neurotoxin, Domoic Acid (DA).
The phytoplankton genus has been implicated in harmful algal blooms which are increasing in
frequency and duration worldwide. In the past, these toxic blooms have resulted in the death of
seabirds and mammals. Multiple incidences of human illnesses as a result of consuming shellfish
contaminated with DA have been documented, and organizations responsible for seafood safety
now regularly monitor concentrations of DA. A previous study suggests that DA not only affects
organisms feeding in the upper water column, but that DA is also rapidly transported to depth by
sinking aggregates. The absence of light and lower temperatures at these depths slows
degradation of the toxin providing a source of DA to benthic organisms. Trophic transfer and
bioaccumulation of the toxin explain the high levels of DA previously observed in benthic
feeders. The project described herein is exploratory in nature and seeks to understand the
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release and downward transport of DA through characterization of chemical changes as toxinlaced aggregates formed by the diatom sink.
Student Author(s): Kyle Landrigan, Senior, Psychology Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Don Poe, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 17
Spatial Learning Abilities of Visually Impaired Versus Sighted People
Of all the human senses, vision tends to be the one most commonly taken for granted. It is not
often that we consider the differences that would come with the loss of vision; the thought of
how we would move through space without sight rarely crosses our mind. The purpose of the
present study was to investigate how people with different levels of vision would perform on a
spatial learning task. Because level of vision is not a variable that can be manipulated, we ran a
study with the level of vision as the independent variable and performance on a spatial learning
task as the dependent variable; the task was an incomplete triangle study. We believed that the
participants who had experienced a greater level of blindness would perform better on the
incomplete triangle task because they were not reliant on their vision before the study, which we
believed would give them an advantage in the task.
Student Author(s): Benjamin Lane, Senior, International Studies North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Raja Abillama, North Carolina State University
Presentation: International Studies, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 26
The Failure of Cyber Deterrence and Its Implications for Cyber Conflicts
This paper evaluates the usefulness of deterrence theory as a tool for the development of
national security policies to mitigate cyber threats. Cyber attacks differ in many respects from
the nuclear and conventional military attacks that prompted the development of deterrence
theory during the Cold War. The most significant difference is what has been called the
``attribution problem." Simply stated, it is far easier for attackers to remain anonymous in
cyberspace than it is for attackers conducting physical attacks. For some cyber attacks that harm
a state's vital interests, such as an attack that destroys nuclear centrifuges, it may be possible to
identify the attacker with reasonably certainty based upon how the effects align with the
political objectives of other states. Yet, for other attacks where the political beneficiaries are not
clearly evident, such as the 2007 denial of service attacks against Estonia, attribution is nearly
impossible. Through modeling cyber attack scenarios using game theory, I show that deterrence
policies will not prevent attacks of the latter type. Thus, I argue that these types of cyber attacks
will become a regular occurrence between opposing states as they do not have fears of
retaliation. The frequency of this new type of conflict will have serious consequences for
international relations, the development of new cyber technologies, and attempts to establish
cyber-related international norms and laws.
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Student Author(s): Mark Langley, Freshman, Exercise Sports Science North Carolina Central
University
Mentor(s): Hsin-Yi Liu, North Carolina Central University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 4
The efficacy of a required fitness course on reducing risk of cardiovascular disease and
improving fitness in African-American college students
There is a disparity of risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) among demographics such as
among African-Americans and Caucasians. This study examined the efficacy of a required fitness
course on altering the health behaviors, fitness level, and risk factors among African-American
college students. Participant were instructed to do large muscle group strengthening, and
different types of cardio-exercises from the first week, increasing in volume and duration every
week. Data was collected at the beginning and eight weeks later to assess improvements in
students’ fitness and risks for CVD using an independent t-test (p=0.05). Our results showed no
significant difference between pre- and post-tests in waist-to-hip ratio and body fat percentage
(BF%). There was a significant difference in systolic and diastolic blood pressure (-6.02% and 9.56%), body weight (+1.09%), and BMI (+1.13%). There were significant differences in almost
all measures of fitness assessment, including push up repetitions (+22.7%), sit up repetitions
(+23.5%), and one mile run time (-8.12%). These findings suggested that in the duration of only
one semester, improvement in measures of fitness are faster than reducing risk factors to CVD
such as BF%.
Student Author(s): Jonathan Latta, Senior, Psychology University of North Carolina Greensboro
Mentor(s): George Michel, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 12
Different Estimates of Infant Hand Preferences Result from Different Hand Preference
Assessments
The development of hand preference during infancy can be studied using a wide variety of
assessment methods and classification criteria. Most of these methods leave out the critical
element of tracking the change in hand preference over time, leaving the researcher with
periodic distributions of preference rather than a cohesive picture of changes over time. Groupbased trajectory modeling (GBTM), introduced by Daniel Nagin (2005), can be performed on
handedness data, allowing us to identify groups amongst individuals. When used on our
handedness data, GBTM uses both the intercept and slope of each infant’s trajectory to place
each individual into groups known as “latent classes”. In our most recent study, changing the
task or classification criteria used to identify handedness was shown to change the number of
latent classes that were able to be identified by GBTM. Using a 9-trial task, none of the
classification methods were able to distinguish more than two latent classes (one showing no
preference, the other trending toward right-hand preference). However, when a 32-trial task
was used, an additional latent class of left-preference infants was able to be distinguished.
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Student Author(s): Hal Lin, Freshman, Mathematics University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Mathematics, Oral Session 1 , 10:00 - 10:15 AM, Room 8A
Triangles and Squares and Polyhedra-Oh My: A Closer Look at Pollock's Conjectures
The Platonic Solids have been of interest to numerous mathematicians throughout antiquity. In
the century, Sir Frederick Pollock made two related conjectures in the field of additive number
theory through the addition of tetrahedral and octahedral numbers. This paper contains
discussions regarding the unique properties of tetrahedral and octahedral numbers and proves
Pollock’s tetrahedral numbers using various methods, including formulae generated from sigma
functions and analyses of trends in Pascal’s triangle. However, a satisfactory proof for the
octahedral numbers conjectures was not found. Furthermore, using the work in this study on
tetrahedral and octahedral numbers and extending the ideas found in this project to
dodecahedral numbers, the author attempted to derive a rule for dodecahedra similar to
Pollock’s conjectures. A new conjecture was formed in a similar fashion to the conjectures
formed by Pollock, but no proof was formulated.
Student Author(s): Caroline Liu, Freshman, Chemistry NC School of Science and Mathematics
Mentor(s): Myra Halpin, NC School of Science and Mathematics
Presentation: Chemistry - Inorganic, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 30
Isomer Chemistry: Design Ligands to Adjust Thermodynamics and Kinetics for Rare-Earth
Metal Extraction and Rhodium Catalyzed Hydroformylation
There is a clear lack of a systematic method to develop ligands for scientific and industrial
applications in drug delivery, nanomaterial engineering, disease treatment and solar energy. By
leveraging steric and electrostatic properties of isomers, this work proposes a new and general
approach to systematically design ligands with desirable stabilities and reactivities, altering the
overall thermodynamics and kinetics of reaction. We demonstrate its applicability and
effectiveness by using butyl phosphine as an example to modify metal complexes in two systems:
(1) rare-earth metal extraction and (2) rhodium catalyzed hydroformylation reaction of propene.
These systems were examined both experimentally and computationally. As hypothesized, it was
found that different butyl isomers do alter thermodynamic and kinetic properties; however, not
always in a parallel manner. Depending on the reaction, the catalyst would have to be
constructed in such a way to maximize the desired behavior. The data collected in this work and
the following analysis lay the foundation for optimizing metal complex catalyst. This work
develops a novel prospective for the design of new ligands to extract needed rare-earth metals
from environmental pollutants as well as from the ocean and to produce ideal catalysts for
hydroformylation for the efficient production of plastics.
Student Author(s): Rayshawn Locklear, Senior, Mathematics Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Perry Gillespie , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Mathematics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 37
A Comparative Analysis on Academic Performance of Minorities and Non-Minorities in
STEM
For decades, institutions have strived to increase the number of minorities in STEM related
disciplines. Many argue that the decrease is attributed to the lack of STEM preparation. The
subsequent research addresses the decrease distinctively at Fayetteville State University which
is applicable to other post-secondary institutions. The data will be filtered merely utilizing STEM
minorities and non-minority students. The calculations will be applied using the t-distribution
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which will highlight the altitude of significance. It is hypothesized that minorities are undeniably
prepared but lack enthusiasm and support to pursue a STEM discipline. Subsequent to
performing the diverse test, the results indicated that minorities are prepared but lack to be
successful in STEM compared to those who are non-minority and of a STEM discipline. The high
school grade point averages for these individuals also displayed the significance of my collected
data on individuals of STEM at Fayetteville State University.
Student Author(s): Katelyn Long, Senior, Biology High Point University
Mentor(s): Joanne Altman, High Point University
Presentation: Psychology, Oral Session 2, 11:30 - 11:45 AM, Room 3
A Review of the Comparative Study of Human and Non-human Cognitive Ability
What is it that makes humans different from animals? Before the 1970’s anthropologists argued
that language was uniquely human. But research today clearly demonstrates that apes can learn
sign language (Chalcraft & Gardner, 2005; Gardner, Gardner, Van Cantfort, & Thomas, 1989; Van
Cantfort, Gardner, & Gardner, 1989; Wynne, 1999); use arbitrary symbols to reflect meaning
(Premack 1970); and show syntax (Savage-Rumbaugh, 1987).. A second human benchmark
animals were compared against was tool use which can now be demonstrated across two Classes
of animals- birds and mammals (sea otters: Hall & Schaller, 1964; crows: Hunt 1996; Chimps:
Boysen & Himes, 1999; Bryne, 1995). More recently, self-recognition (awareness that a
reflection in a mirror means the self), numerosity (understanding numbers and quantity) and
theory of mind (being aware of another’s awareness) have been considered critical components
of consciousness and, perhaps, uniquely human. However, self-recognition has been
demonstrated in great apes (Boysen & Himes, 1999; Bryne, 1995; Wynne, 1999), elephants
(Plotnik, de Waal, & Reiss, 2006), and dolphins (Marten & Psarakos, 1995; Marino, Reiss, &
Gallup, 1994). Monkeys and apes count (Barnard et al., 2013; Boysen, & Hallberg, 2000) and
have demonstrated theory of mind (Boysen & Himes, 1999; Bryne, 1995; Wynne, 1999). This
presentation will discuss the literature that demonstrates cognitive competences present in nonhuman animals that rival human abilities. We will show that as the cognitive tasks get more
complex fewer species demonstrate the cognitive skills. However, to date, no research has
demonstrated human cognitive competencies not evident in at least some non-human species.
Student Author(s): Rebecca Long, Senior, Environmental Science Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Chris Thaxton, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Earth Science, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 43
Characterizing urbanization of Appalachian mountain streams using streamflow
parameters
Watershed hydrological cycles have been threatened by urbanization in the NC high country.
Urban land use and land cover (LULC) such as impervious surfaces- roads, parking lots,
buildings, and sidewalks- disturbs the natural water cycles, which leads to unstable stream
channel morphology, increases urban nonpoint source pollution delivery, and degrades aquatic
ecosystems. In this study, we used a paired watershed approach to study how LULC affects
runoff generation and streamflow in two headwater watersheds, Boone Creek (urban) and
Winkler Creek (forested), in Watauga County, NC. The continuous water level data at a 15 min
time interval have been collected by two stream gauging stations at the two watershed outlets
since 2010. We developed rating curves to convert our stream stage data to discharge
hydrographs. We then calculated runoff ratios and baseflow indexes using the web-based
hydrograph analysis tool (WHAT). The runoff ratios were 0.7316 and 0.5787, and the baseflow
indexes were 0.7699 and 0.7432 for Boone Creek and Winkler Creek, respectively. Preliminary
results indicate there is no significant difference of baseflow index for Boone and Winkler
Creeks. A steep slope on the flow duration curve for Boone Creek indicates a direct runoff
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pattern with less variability between high and low flows. Winkler Creek’s less steep slope and
higher variability of flow indicate sources of flow from both surface runoff and groundwater
storage. These results suggest that urbanization significantly alters watershed hydrology by
increasing runoff ratio and decreasing flow variability in the Southern Appalachians.
Student Author(s): Tomas Lucioni, Junior, Biophysics Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Martin Guthold, Wake Forest University
Presentation: Physics - Biophysics, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 62
Lysis of Stretched Fibrin Fibers
Blood clots form in the event of injury to the vasculature to prevent potentially life-threatening
blood loss. Blood clots can also from in undesired locations, resulting in heart attacks, strokes
and other diseases. In all these situations blood clots need to be dissolved immediately. Fibrin
fibers, which are about 150 nm in diameter, are the main structural component of blood clots. In
clot lysis (dissolution) they are broken down with plasmin (the active form of plasminogen, that
is activated by tissue plasminogen activator(tPA)). Plasmin binds to the fibrin fibers, and cuts
them at specific sites, which initially causes an elongation of the fiber, and finally a breakdown of
the fiber. We hypothesize that fibrin fibers under stress/tension will take a longer time to
dissolve because the binding sites for the plasmin are distorted by the stretching of the fiber,
which might hinder plasmin binding and fiber dissolution. We fluorescently labeled fibrin fibers
to view them under the optical microscope and, with our new method of stretching the fibers on
a striated stretchable substrate, we can view several fibers simultaneously and record how the
break down over the period of an hour. Our main goal is to gain a better understanding of the
biophysical properties of fibrin fibers in order to better understand how the whole clot breaks
down whether under tension or not.
Student Author(s): Andrew Luo, Senior, Biology and Computer Science Duke University
Mentor(s): Michael Platt, Duke University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Oral Session 4, 3:00 - 3:15 PM,
Room 3
Identifying the causative role of the intraparietal sulcus on numerical cognition
Numerical cognition is the ability to approximate quantities with little conscious control. Recent
human brain imaging studies have discovered a neurological basis of number processing,
implicating the intraparietal sulcus (IPS) in arithmetic calculation and visual attention.
Moreover, neural recordings have produced similar findings in rhesus macaque species, who
display IPS activation when performing number-related tasks. However, to date, there has been
no direct evidence showing that IPS activation plays a causal role in numerical cognition. Here,
we determined the effect of IPS inactivation on numerical processing in rhesus monkeys. We
hypothesize that shutting down neural activity in the IPS will hinder the monkeys’ performance
solely on number-related tasks, which would indicate an essential role of IPS in number
processing. We injected muscimol, a GABAA agonist used to inactivate neurons, into the ventral
and lateral intraparietal sulci, two areas previously found to correlate with number processing.
Two trained rhesus monkeys were shown two simultaneous dot arrays (numerosities) to test
their number processing ability. By analyzing the monkeys’ daily task performance, we
determined if there is a deficit in task performance following muscimol and saline control
injections. The findings from this research may not only enhance to our current understanding of
neuroscience, but also help unveil the neural underpinnings of diseases that affect mathematical
abilities, such as dyscalculia and Williams syndrome.
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Student Author(s): Amanda Macias, Senior, Forensic Science Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Khalid Lodhi , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 21
Rate of UV Radiation Induced Degradation of Human Semen DNA, Determined by Y-STR
Markers
This research investigated human semen DNA degradation trends when known whole semen
samples were exposed to UVA, UVB, UVC, and natural UV radiations. Forensic techniques utilized
included DNA extraction from human male sperm cells through organic methods, genomic
human DNA quantitation using Quantifiler®Y Human Male DNA Quantification Kit on ABI 7500
Real-Time PCR. Male DNA was amplified using the AmpFlSTR®Yfiler® Kit as per manufacturerrecommended protocol. Electrophoretic separation of amplified products by the ABI PRISM®
310 Genetic Analyzer through capillary electrophoresis and GeneMapper® ID v3.2.1 was used to
analyze data. Genetic analysis data was used to monitor the level of DNA degradation by
analyzing 17 Short Tandem Repeats (STR). The data collected from samples exposed to natural
UV radiation and 365 nm artificial UV radiation were used to determine degradation rates of
approximately 500 Relative Fluorescence Units (RFU) in peak height lost every twenty minutes
of exposure. The data collected from samples exposed to 254 and 302 nm artificial UV radiation
were used to determine a degradation rate of approximately 750 RFU in peak height lost every
twenty minutes of exposure. Final results of this study can be helpful to establish the limitations
of human identification utilizing Y-STR markers.
Student Author(s): Erika Mackenzie, Sophomore, Environmental Science Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Luke Dollar, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 14
Human Footprints: The Impact of Human Foot Traffic on Wildlife in a Campus Setting
“Green spaces” are often developed in the interest in preserving semi-natural habitat use
practices by native wildlife in an otherwise developed setting. We seek to determine if relative
encounter rates of commonly encountered wildlife varies with the incidence of foot traffic on the
Pfeiffer University campus in Misenheimer, NC. Qualitative and quantitative observation for this
experiment is based whether that human foot traffic has affected the way wildlife is interacting
with its environment. We hypothesize that areas with reduced foot traffic in a campus setting
will experience higher wildlife abundance and use. The interactions of these animals have been
studied by analyzing four different locations, three times a day- morning, afternoon and night.
Preliminary results have indicated that the original hypothesis has been proven incorrect and
has demonstrated that the number of animals are surprisingly consistent across campus areas
with varying levels of human activity.
Student Author(s): Abigail Maiorana-Boutilier, Junior, BS Chemistry/BS Applied Physics East
Carolina University
Mentor(s): Siddhartha Mitra, East Carolina University
Presentation: Earth Science, Oral Session 2, 11:00 - 11:15 AM, Room 7B
Investigation into the Origins of the Younger Dryas Black Mats
To better understand the cause of the Younger Dryas (YD) stadial, a global period of abrupt
climate change, 44 sediment samples of a layer of “black mat” from locations across three
continents were analyzed. The black mats have been hypothesized to be pyrogenic residues
created either by 1) meteoritic impacts or 2) abrupt climate change, thought to occur globally
~12,000 years ago. Carbon stable isotopic ratios, and carbon to nitrogen ratios, were obtained
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for each sample. The percent mass of soot carbon was also calculated. The stable isotopic ratios
are similar for each site, indicating that the soot is from a common source. This is expected after
an extraterrestrial impact, which could cause soot to rise and diffuse in the atmosphere, then
later be deposited globally. The percent mass of soot carbon values span a large range for the
samples. This indicates that some of the sites contained soot that was created at the source (high
percent mass of soot), while others contained soot that was most likely deposited there (low
percent mass of soot). The preliminary results provide evidence that supports the Younger Dryas
impact hypothesis.
Student Author(s): Marquita Mallory, Junior, Mathematics/ Accounting Fayetteville State
University
Mentor(s): Boris Abbey , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Accounting, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 38
The Performance of Pediatric Practices in the South East U.S. Before and After the
Implementation of the Affordable Care Act
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was passed into law in 2010 with the intent to ensure that all US
citizens can obtain and afford healthcare insurance. The ACA has expanded healthcare coverage,
yet some claim that it has produced a negative effect on the financial performance of medical
practices. The objective of this study is to examine the effects of the ACA on the financial
performance of medical practices. Specifically, this study will examine financial statements from
nine pediatric practices located in North Carolina in order to determine whether the ACA has a
negative effect on the performance of these pediatric practices. To address financial
performance, an analysis of financial statements two years before the adoption of the ACA, and
financial statements up to August 2014, will be examined to determine whether the ACA
negatively effects financial performance. In conclusion, this study will provide quantitative
results that directly address one of the main concerns arising from the implementation of the
ACA.
Student Author(s): Alexander Mandarino, Junior, Applied Physics Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Brooke Hester, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - General, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number
51
Automation of absolute temperature measurement in optical tweezers
An optical tweezers system uses highly focused laser radiation in order to confine individual
particles and typically is used to study biological systems or materials. The measurement of the
trap stiffness can be completed through various calibration techniques. Many calibration
methods require an accurate knowledge of particle size, fluid viscosity, and temperature. We
present a method for the automation of position data collection and subsequent high-frequency
power spectral analysis to find the temperature of the particle in the optical trap to be used in
trap stiffness calibration. The implementation of this method of temperature measurement
allows for a more accurate determination of trap stiffness an automated calibration program for
optical tweezers systems, which we are currently developing. In addition, the knowledge of
temperature allows for the examination of heating effects on the trapped particle, which is
necessary to observe biological materials without harm.
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Student Author(s): Lesley Manuh, Senior, Biology Guilford College
Mentor(s): Melanie Lee-Brown, Guilford College
Sharon Morrison University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Oral Session 2, 11:15 - 11:30 AM, Room 5
Antimalarial care during pregnancy in West Africa, Ghana
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), every minute an African child dies from
malaria. Ghana is one African country with a high incidence of malaria. Pregnant Ghanaian
women are at a greater risk of dying from complications due to severe malaria. Malaria is
associated with spontaneous abortions, premature deliveries, severe anemia and still-births, and
accounts for about one-third of preventable low weight births. WHO recommends intermittent,
preventive treatment for pregnant women living in high malaria transmission areas. This pilot
study examined preventive antimalarial care in two different hospital settings in Ghana. During
summer 2014, semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare providers (two
hospital pharmacists, six doctors, two public health nurses) and three pregnant patients.
Unstructured observations were conducted during antenatal classes with 10-15 pregnant
women. Qualitative analysis of the interviews and observations highlighted two key findings. In
both public (Government run) and private hospitals in Ghana, antimalarial drugs were routinely
integrated as part of the antenatal care provided to women by these hospitals. However, the
public hospital did not have antenatal classes for their pregnant women. As a result, these
patients received less information on malaria prevention. Despite this, the antimalarial care
intervention was perceived as the key disease reduction strategy for bringing malaria incidence
from high to a “rarely occurring” status among pregnant women served by these institutions.
Findings from this study has implications for future research on effective malaria prevention
during pregnancy and for national maternal and child health policy.
Student Author(s): Silvana Marr-Madariaga, Senior, Sociology/Anthropology Guilford College
Mentor(s): Julie Winterich, Guilford College
Presentation: Sociology , Oral Session 1 , 10:15 - 10:30 AM, Room 3
Mothering North of the Border: A Study on Latina Mothers' Experiences in Transnational
Communities
Based on in-depth, semi-structured interviews with Latina immigrant women living in the
Southeast, this research examines their experiences with motherhood in transnational
communities to understand the meanings women ascribe to motherhood, their negotiations with
parenting in a new social and cultural context, and their use of local and transnational networks
of support. Past research in migration studies often incorporated an ethnocentric framework
that viewed women’s migration on a linear Western-focused spectrum of traditional-to-modern
liberation. Current research has moved away from this analysis to broadly examine the
intersections of gender and immigration. Anticipated findings suggest that there is a range of
different meanings associated with mothering in the United States and Mexico, and as women
immigrate they are faced with the challenge of renegotiating these meanings of motherhood and
identity. This research emphasizes the voices of women of color, and offers an in-depth analysis
of Latina immigrant women’s experiences and challenges with mothering in transnational
communities.
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Student Author(s): William Martz, Junior, Aerospace Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Gregory Jones, National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Presentation: Engineering - Mechanical & Aerospace, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 24
Research at National Transonic Facility
Over the summer I worked in a characterization test of the National Transonic Facility at NASA
Langley, VA. This purpose of this test was to identify features of the tunnel that influence the
unsteady pressure field. A large amount of data collected from the tunnel was analyzed to make
preliminary observations associated with sound and vorticity fields. Several coherent structures
were identified, but were not related to specific wind tunnel components. There were several
features that were not present in my analysis of the data, including upstream moving sound from
the wind tunnel fan system and wake features from the heat exchanger that were present in
previous tests. The heat exchanger wakes were eliminated by the addition of fairings to the heat
exchanger. It is not clear why the fan noise is not present.
Student Author(s): C. Mattison, Sophomore, Associates in Science Nash Community College
Mentor(s): David Beamer, Nash Community College
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 18
Past, Present and Future: Hybridization Between Two Dusky Salamander Lineages
Northern Dusky (D. fuscus) and Mountain Dusky Salamanders (D. carolinesis) are two species
from the genus Desmognathus. Recent molecular phylogenic data has offered some insights to
their evolutionary relationship, one of these is that hybridization once occurred between these
populations. This leads to several questions, as these populations can be located close to one
another, though have never been found sympatrically. The integration of D. carolinesis mtDNA
within D. fuscus is also found in D. fuscus populations far away from present sympatric zones.
This suggests that hybridization occurred in the distant past. In order to test the extent of their
speciation, I wanted to see if there is ongoing gene flow between D. fuscus and D. carolinesis
populations. I performed a sexual incompatibility mating trial between populations collected 4.4
kilometers apart. None of the pairings resulted in the deposition of a spermatophore and no
typical breeding behavior was observed as noted intraspecifically. The salamanders seemed to
virtually ignore each other which implies that sexual isolation mechanisms have evolved
between the species.
Student Author(s): Amanda Mays, Senior, Chemistry-ACS certified Winston-Salem State
University
Mentor(s): Sezgin Kiren, Winston-Salem State University
Presentation: Chemistry - General, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 21
PREPARATION OF SUBSTITUTED PYRIDINES FROM 4-METHOXYPYRIDINE
The presented research involves the studies of aromatization reactions of an adduct obtained
from 1,2-addition of organocerium reagents to 2-substituted 2,3-dihydro-4-pyridones. The
formation of substituted pyridines will be realized under various conditions. The advantages of
this strategy will be as follows: (a) utilize the very well-established reactions, (b) employ simple,
commercially available and inexpensive starting materials, (c) rapidly and efficiently generate
structural complexity and diversity to reach substituted pyridines containing natural products
and their analogs for drug discovery.
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Student Author(s): Kebba Mbye, Senior, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Thomas Girke, University of California at Riverside
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number
59
RNAseq Analysis with systemPipeR
Modern high-throughput genome profiling approaches generate lists of genes that are often
difficult and time consuming to interpret. To facilitate this effort, gene set enrichment tests are
widely used to determine which pathways and/or biological processes are statistically over- or
under-represented in a gene list of interest. Many gene annotation and classification systems can
employed for these enrichment tests. However, utilizing many of them and combining their
results is often very time consuming, especially when the number of gene list is large, e.g. in case
of gene expression clustering results. This project will eliminate this bottleneck by adding the
required functionalities to the R-based workflow environment systemPipeR. These
enhancements will support a variety of enrichment tests across any number of gene annotation
systems in an efficient, reproducible, extendible and user-friendly manner.
Student Author(s): Tha'Mes McDaniel, Senior, Laboratory Animal Science North Carolina A&T
State University
Mentor(s): Jenora Waterman, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Agricultural Sciences & Economics, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 41
Characterization of Animal Housing Dust from Diverse North Carolina Agricultural
Environments
The connection between long-term exposure to animal production facilities and occupational
respiratory disease is well-established. Studies in our laboratory and others have shown that
respiratory illnesses are connected to diminished air quality, owing to inhalation of dusts, gases
and other compounds. The goal of this project was to characterize barn dusts from livestock and
poultry farms across central and eastern North Carolina to determine endotoxin levels, pH and
dust borne microbes. Endotoxin levels were determined by Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL)
assay and pH was measured using a laboratory pH meter. To investigate the presence of dust
borne bacteria, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis was used to detect the 16S ribosomal
DNA gene in dust from seven NC farms. For validation, examination of colony morphology, gram
staining and biochemical testing was performed on positive PCR samples. Similarities in pH and
endotoxin concentration were observed among farm dust samples. Our preliminary studies
confirmed presence of Escherichia and Staphylococcus within several dust samples via detection
of genus-specific 16S rDNA genes. Microscopic inspection and biochemical testing confirmed the
presence of Escherichia and Staphylococcus. While our microbial results were not a surprising
finding, our studies provide an approach and the impetus for further analysis of the impact of
dust borne microbes on the respiratory system.
Student Author(s): Katie Mcdaniel, Junior, Chemistry Winston-Salem State University
Mentor(s): Lei Zhang, Winston-Salem State University
Wyndham Wilkinson Winston-Salem State University
Presentation: Engineering - Materials, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 65
Low cost electricity from Sunlight
A mirror dish is constructed as part of a joint effort by the four universities of the NC Triad Solar
Consortium to use concentrated sunlight to produce clean low cost electricity. Molded of
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advanced composite materials, the dish will be lightweight and easy to transport, install and
maintain. The surface of each molded dish will be composed of flat mirror facets delivering an
intense beam of concentrated sunlight that can be converted efficiently into electricity. These
concentrator systems, once developed, should make the production of electricity from sunlight
economically viable and a widespread business practice.
Student Author(s): Kaitlyn McMinn, Freshman, Biology North Carolina Central University
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Toxicology, Oral Session 3, 2:15 - 2:30 PM, Room 5
Effects of Household Antiseptics on Bacteria Obtained From Skin
Some bacteria housed on the human skin are considered opportunistic pathogens that can cause
human health issues. Previous research has shown that tea tree oil, antimicrobial soap, and
hydrogen peroxide are effective household antiseptics. We were interested in determining how
effective these antiseptics were against bacteria of the skin. We isolated bacteria from the
forearm by culturing bacteria on mannitol salt and nutrient agar. From the original population of
bacteria, one colony was selected from each media. These colonies were subject to gram stains,
catalase and oxidase tests, DNA restriction profiles, and growth analysis to distinguish the
isolates. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed to determine how sensitive the
bacteria were to antiseptics. Results showed that the isolates were gram positive, catalase and
oxidase negative, and produced similar growth profiles. The DNA restriction profile
demonstrated that the two isolates are most likely the same. The bacteria from mannitol salt
agar were sensitive to 0.2% antimicrobial soap but not as sensitive (6.25%) when isolated from
nutrient agar. Hydrogen peroxide was effective at inhibiting the growth of isolates from nutrient
agar. Although the tea tree oil was not effective on bacteria isolated from either media, further
studies will be needed to confirm this.
Student Author(s): Rachel McNeill, Senior, Zoology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Laura Ott, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number
63
Delftia acidovorans induces a pro-inflammatory response in human monocytes
Delftia acidovorans is a gram-negative water and soil bacterium that is resistant to many
antibiotics. Case reports have described infections of D. acidovorans in patients with intravenous
catheters, prompting us to investigate the immune response to Delftia sp.. We hypothesized that
D. acidovorans would elicit a pro-inflammatory response in human monocytes. Cells were
stimulated for 24 hours with two strains of heat-killed Delftia sp.: Delftia acidovorans ATCC
13751 (at a multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 0.6 and 6.0) and Delftia sp. Cs1-4 (MOI of 0.8 and
8.0). Purified lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 100 ng/mL) was used as the positive control. Western
blot analysis evaluated the expression of myristoylated alanine-rich c-kinase substrate
(MARCKS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). These proteins are known to regulate the immune
response and are upregulated in monocytes upon LPS stimulation. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)
is an acute-phase, pro-inflammatory cytokine and its production was measured by enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results demonstrate significantly elevated MARCKS
(ATCC MOI of 6.0) and COX-2 (Cs1-4 MOI of 8.0) expression as well as significantly increased
TNF production in cells stimulated with either strain of Delftia sp.. Further investigation is
needed to fully understand the human immune response to Delftia sp. infections.
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Student Author(s): Elizabeth Medlin, Senior, International Studies and Spanish North Carolina
State University
Mentor(s): Carol Ann Lewald, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Political Science, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 19
The Right to Development and El Buen Vivir in Ecuador and Bolivia
This research focuses on how Bolivia and Ecuador apply the right to development using the Buen
Vivir methodology in their respective constitutions. In addition, this research examines whether
the concept of Buen Vivir satisfies the right to development enumerated by the United Nations.
The Buen Vivir is an alternative to the right to development, which has both shortcomings and
potential by ways of poverty eradication in Ecuador and Bolivia. Using an international legal and
comparative constitutional framework, the research primarily analyzes how the Ecuadorian and
Bolivian Constitutions consider the 1986 United Nations Declaration on the Right to
Development in the form of the Buen Vivir methodology. Traditional applications of the right to
development may rely on Western notions of development in order to reduce poverty. However,
as an innovative and alternative approach, Buen Vivir has the potential to improve citizen’s lives
by increasing happiness and quality of life while simultaneously fulfilling the UN’s mandate on
the right to development based on indigenous culture and traditions.
Student Author(s): Charles Michelin, Sophomore, Finance Queens University of Charlotte
Mentor(s): Steven Cox, Queens University of Charlotte
Presentation: Business, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 3
How educated are college students in personal finance?
There is currently over one trillion dollars in college debt across America. This research looks at
the financial literacy of college students in freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior classes.
Additional demographic factors are also considered. The research considers credit card usage by
college students and college student understanding of the implications of credit card debt as
well. The research results should help educators develop programs to assist students in better
management of their debt.
Student Author(s): Benjamin Migirditch, Sophomore, Applied Physics Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Jennifer Burris, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - General, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number
50
Raman Spectroscopy: The Theory, Applications and Current Research
Raman Spectroscopy is an optical technique that utilizes Raman scattering to determine the
molecular structure of materials. Raman scattering occurs when light of a known wavelength
excites the molecules of a substance to a higher vibrational energy state. When the molecules
return to a lower energy state, light is emitted. About one ten millionth of this emitted light has a
different wavelength than the incident light. This shift in wavelength provides information about
the molecular structure of a material because every substance yields its own unique Raman
spectrum. Our lab frequently uses the spectra of sulfur and isopropyl alcohol for instrument
calibration. The applications of Raman Spectroscopy span many different fields, as Raman
scattering occurs in both biological and non-biological materials. Current projects include the
examination of the structure of biofilms and identification of yeast used in fermentation.
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Student Author(s): Sam Migirditch, Sophomore, Physics and Mathematics Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Brooke Hester, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - Condensed Matter, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 55
Automated Temperature-Corrected Stiffness Calibration for Optical Tweezers
Optical tweezers (OTs) provide unique control and measurement over microscopic systems, and
are used frequently for measurements of micro- to nano-scopic biological systems. OTs are most
commonly used as force transducers by modeling the optical force to be proportional to the
displacement from the equilibrium position, this is also known as Hooke’s law. In order to
measure a force, a determination of the spring constant k is necessary, and is commonly
performed with power spectral analysis. Extracting k from the power spectrum requires
knowledge of the temperature of the medium surrounding the trapped particle which is usually
assumed to be room temperature, yet the trapping beam can cause significant heating. We
experimentally determine the temperature directly from the power spectrum and use that value
to find a more accurate stiffness. Traditionally, the calibration is completed by hand which is
time consuming. Here, we present an automated power spectrum calibration program in
LabVIEW based on the work by Berg-Sørensen et al. We improve upon the previous method by
using active local temperature correction when finding trap stiffness from the experimentally
determined power spectrum. Additionally, the automated system allows for data collection and
analysis within minutes rather than hours.
Student Author(s): Amir Milak, Senior, Industrial and Systems Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Timothy Horn, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Industrial & Systems, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 22
Comparison of Electron Beam Melting vs Direct Metal Laser Sintering
With the rapid evolution of additive manufacturing in recent years, metal powder bed fusion has
shown great potential for various applications ranging from Biomedical to Aerospace. This study
will focus on comparing the tensile and material properties of two forms of powder bed fusion
using the Titanium alloy system, Ti6Al4V. The two processes that will be compared are the
Electron Beam Melting process (Arcam, EBM) and the Direct Metal Laser Sintering process (EOS
M280 Laser, DMLS). The EBM uses a Tungsten filament to generate electrons which are guided
through 3 electro-magnetic coils that focus and deflect the beam across the build area, selectively
consolidating the powder. The build area is under a vacuum of 1e-4 mBar and remains at a
relatively high temperature (800 Degrees C). The EOS uses a laser energy source, requires finer
powder and does not operate at the high temperatures typical to EBM. We hypothesize that
there will be a difference in tensile properties of the two processes.
Student Author(s): J'Lisa Miles, Senior, Biology North Carolina A&T State University
Mentor(s): Catherine White, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 30
Examination of Cytolethal Distending Toxins in Haemophilus ducreyi Strains Isolated
from Non-Genital Lesions
Haemophilus ducreyi is a gram negative, sexually transmitted coccobacillus and the causative
agent of the genital ulcer disease chancroid. H. ducryei produces several virulence factors,
including the Cytolethal Distending Toxin (CDT) which causes cell cycle arrest in immune cells.
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In this study, four H. ducreyi strains isolated from non-sexual lesions were examined for the
presence of the cytolethal distending toxin operon which encodes the CDT holotoxin. The four
strains, SB5755, SB5756, SB5757, BE3145, and the H. ducryei parent strain 35000 were used in
the study. Polymerase chain reaction was used to amplify the entire operon which consists of
cdtA, cdtB and cdtC. The results showed that SB5755, SB5756, SB5757, and BE3145 all contained
the cytolethal distending toxin operon. Furthermore, the operons from all five strains were
successfully moved into a cloning vector and transformed into E. coli for use in further studies. In
future studies, the cytolethal distending toxin operons from these strains will be moved into
expression vectors to isolate the holotoxins for examination of toxin function. Due to the ability
of these toxins to cause cell cycle arrest in human cells, it is possible that these toxins may be
potential candidates for the treatment of various cancers.
Student Author(s): Thomas Mitchell, Senior, Biology (B.S.) University of North Carolina Greensboro
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Lacey, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 35
Do Differences in Seed Coat Mass Explain Latitudinal Differences in Whole Seed Mass in
Plantago lanceolata?
The mass of a seed influences its ability to germinate and grow into a viable plant. For this
reason, determining what influences seed mass is important for crop improvement and for
understanding how species persist in nature. Biologists generally assume that changes in mass
are explained by varying amounts of endosperm, the “stored food” of a seed. However, in
Plantago lanceolata, low parental temperature increases total seed mass not by increasing the
embryo-endosperm mass, but by increasing the seed coat mass, i.e., maternal tissue surrounding
the embryo and endosperm, (Lacey et al. 1997). A subsequent experiment also found that
maternal genotypes influence seed mass, and that maternal genotypes from cool climates
produce larger seeds than do genotypes from warm climates, even when parents are grown in
the same environment. Therefore, I tested the hypothesis that these maternal genetic effects are
explained by differences in seed coat mass rather than differences in embryo/endosperm mass.
To test this hypothesis, seeds from four reciprocally crossed pairs of northern and southern
European genotypes of P. lanceolata were individually weighed and germinated, and their seed
coats were subsequently weighed. Data were analyzed with analysis of variance. Experimental
results will be presented.
Student Author(s): Loressa Mitchell, Sophomore, Associate in Arts Guilford Technical
Community College
Mentor(s): Jessica Labbe, Guilford Technical Community College
Presentation: English, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 17
"An Army of Devils": Puritan Attitudes Towards Witchcraft and its Influence on Attitudes
Towards Women
This poster will explore Puritan depictions of and actions toward witchcraft as well as how this
affected their society's attitudes towards women. By using text from Cotton Mather's The
Wonders of the Invisible World, I will illustrate how witches were seen as real and evil servants of
the devil. I will also show how women were associated with witchcraft. I will then show how
these views trickled down to the treatment of women in Puritan New England. In the end, the
Puritan concept of witchcraft was very damaging to women and could result in the loss of
property, safety, freedom, and even their life
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Student Author(s): Branda Mlo, Senior, Public Health Education University of North Carolina Greensboro
Vung Ksor, Senior, Peace and Conflict Studies, Guilford College
Lek Siu, Senior, Peace and Conflict Studies, Guilford College
Jalisa Horne, Senior, Nutrition, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Mentor(s): Sharon Morrison , University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Sudha Shreeniwas University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Food, Nutrition, and Bioprocessing Sciences, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 38
Plant and Food Use for Hypertension Management among Montagnards in Vietnam and
North Carolina, USA
Although diet is a major risk factor for hypertension in Montagnards, consumption of plants
remains a disease management strategy. This study aimed to compare cross-national
Montagnard plant and food usage to understand the influence of cultural backgrounds on
hypertension management. Interviews and food records from 21 Montagnard households living
in the United States and Vietnam were collected. Questions on plant and food preparation and
usage were asked, e.g. how do you eat the plant? Preparation and consumption were
documented through photographs, videos, audio recordings and written notes. Interviews were
translated into English and transcribed, with data organized by household and country. Both
groups reported limited knowledge on hypertension. The adoption of westernized diets, i.e.
eating oilier, saltier, more sugary foods, was viewed as a contributing factor to hypertension. To
manage hypertension both groups employed similar traditional vegetation-based folk medicine
perceived to lower blood pressure. These include preparing and consuming bitter melons, herbs
and peppers grown by each household. These data shape the development of a culturally
derived survey instrument to examine Montagnard family relationships and hypertension risk. It
has implications for understanding cross-cultural factors in chronic disease prevention and
management for S.E. Asian refugee populations.
Student Author(s): Bianca Moeller, Senior, Environmental Science Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Luke Dollar, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 6
Relative Habitat use by Game Animals on a Landscape Mosaic in Rural North Carolina
Habitat conversion is widely recognized to impact behavior and movement patterns of
wildlife. At Pfeiffer University in Misenheimer, NC, an area of wooded land was cleared in 2013
and additional lands were cleared 2014, totaling approximately 87,500 m2 of mature forest
logged during this time. The negative effect of land clearing is the loss of wildlife habitat, but
wildlife corridors often are left as by-products. This study seeks to quantify the microhabitat use
or preferences by game animals following clearcut logging. Three outdoor scouting cameras
were placed at three locations along a habitat disturbance gradient. A greater diversity of
wildlife is noted in the least disturbed areas and the cleared areas show a significant reduction of
diversity but a high relative abundance of another species, white-tailed deer (Odocoileus
virginianus).
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Student Author(s): Bianca Moeller, Senior, Environmental Science Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Luke Dollar, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Oral Session 1 , 10:00 - 10:15 AM, Room 6
Fuel Efficient Wood Burning Stoves Decrease Wood Use in a Biodiversity Hotspot
Logging or fuel use is a very real but often underemphasized driver of deforestation. Madagascar
is home to 24 million people that live on about 2$ per day. Their survival is very dependent
upon natural resource use. The village of Ampijoroa is in the Ankarafantsika National
Park. Factors such as erosion, agricultural fires, and deforestation are all issues that disturb
natural resource availability. The agricultural practices of the Malagasy people are very
rudimentary, they utilize the slash-and-burn agriculture method. This has resulted in vast forest
cover loss In the Ankarafantsika National Park. From 1990-2000 there was a decrease of about
19.43% in forest cover with an annual average of about 1.94% (Quantitative Analysis). The
majority of meals cooked daily are done over open fires or charcoal. A method to reduce natural
resource dependency is to use low-cost fuel-efficient cook stoves. These locally produced, lowcost, fuel-efficient cooking stoves use less fire wood than the amount used by a traditional stove
used by the Malagasy people and we quantify their impacts herein.
Student Author(s): Farah Mohiuddin, Senior, Psychology University of North Carolina Wilmington
Mentor(s): Caroline Clements, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 18
Did He Do It? Differences in Victims, Perpetrators, and Mutually Violent Couples’
Responses to a Videotaped Perpetrator
Attribution of blame was assessed across victims, perpetrators, both victims and perpetrators
(mutually violent), and neither victims nor perpetrators of physical intimate partner violence
(IPV) groups. Groups were assigned based on self-reported status according to the CTS-R.
Participants watched a video of a man describing his most recent relationship conflict in which
he either acknowledged (Condition A) or did not acknowledge perpetration (Condition N) of IPV.
Results suggest that mutually violent participants were more likely to say the man in the video
did not assault his partner than participants in the victim only, perpetrator only, and neither
perpetrator nor victim groups, regardless of condition. Further, mutually violent participants in
Condition N were twice as likely to say the man was innocent compared to other groups (victim
only, perpetrator only, and neither). Clinical and forensic interventions were discussed.
Student Author(s): Shayna Mooney, Senior, Multidisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in
Neuroscience and International Studies with a Concentration in Global Health East Carolina
University
Mentor(s): Rachel Roper, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 49
Vaccinia Virus O1L Protein Localization
Smallpox killed an estimated 500 million people in the twentieth century alone. Although this
fatal disease was eradicated from the world over thirty years ago, its potential use as a
bioterrorism agent remains a concern. In addition, monkeypox continues to cause human
outbreaks in Africa and in the US in 2003. Vaccinia virus, the live virus vaccine for smallpox and
monkeypox, is dangerous for immunocompromised individuals and a safer vaccine is needed.
The vaccinia virus O1L gene is highly conserved, and our lab has shown that it is required for full
virulence in mice. When the O1L gene is removed from the wild type virus, the virus becomes
attenuated, and immune responses are improved. Very little is known about this protein
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including its molecular weight, location within the cell and its function. We raised anti O1L
peptide antibodies in rabbits and are using these to investigate the localization of the O1L
protein using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry analysis. Identifying where the protein
localizes will help us to form further hypotheses as to the mechanism of O1Limmunosuppression
and understand how poxviruses control the immune system. This will aid in the creation of new
and safer vaccines.
Student Author(s): Douglas Moore, Freshman, Paper Science and Engineering North Carolina
State University
Mentor(s): Dimitris Argyropoulos, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Chemical & Biomolecular, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 58
Fractional Precipitation of Hardwood Kraft Lignin
Lignin is the second most abundant naturally occurring organic polymer next to cellulose. The
paper industry produces an enormous amount of lignin that currently has no useful purpose.
Specifically my efforts involve using fractional precipitation to partition hardwood kraft lignin
from water/acetone mixtures. Our focus will be on understanding current composition diagrams
. The effort will involve a series of such fractionations followed by detailed analyses of the
lignin's functional groups by quantitative 31P NMR . Plots of the various functional groups as a
function of acetone/water composition is envisaged to reveal the nature of the interaction of
water with the lignin.
Student Author(s): Sina Mostafavi, Junior, Mechanical Engineering University of North Carolina
- Charlotte
Mentor(s): William Kisaalita, University of Georgia
Presentation: Engineering - Biomedical, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 52
Basis for Physiological Relevance of Nerve Cell Culture in 3D Scaffolds
It is widely accepted that cells grown in three-dimension (3D) culture more accurately mimic in
vivo microenvironment. Numerous kinds of three-dimension culture methods have been
reported with a wide range of physical, chemical and spatio properties. These culture methods
mimic the in vivo microenvironment to a certain extent; however, for most of the 3D cultures, it
is hard to state how close to the in vivo condition they are. Both academia and industry call for a
standard biomarker for three dimensionality. A long-term goal in our laboratory is to explore the
question of existence of biomarkers for different tissue type. As a first step, we are exploring the
functional and structural characteristic indicator of three-dimensionality in nerve-derived micro
tissue. This knowledge is a pre-requisite in early three-dimensionality biomarkers discovery
experiment action. In this study, we are using a human neuroblastoma cell line (SHSY-5Y). Our
hypothesis is that three-dimensionality in nerve tissue is characterized by low cytosolic calcium
oscillation/spike frequency (functional) and high caveolae density (structural) in comparison to
2D cultures. We use the term “complex physiological \ relevance” (CPR) to describe such
functional/ structural features that are exhibited only in three-dimension culture systems, but
absent in its 2D counterpart.
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Student Author(s): Nathen Munyak, Freshman, Engineering East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Engineering - Mechanical & Aerospace, Oral Session 3, 2:15 - 2:30 PM, Room 4
Use of Image Recognition in Guiding UAV's
Quadcopters are small UAVs that use 4 rotors and a gyro stabilization system to navigate
through the air with 4 degrees of freedom. The quad-rotor propulsion system is popular among
hobbyists and researchers because it gives the ability to move and navigate in many directions
with a simple control program. Quadcopters can become unstable due to the lack of rapidly
updating sensor data. Without constantly refreshing their position and orientation, quads can
destabilize and lose their heading or even crash. This problem, coupled with an unpredictable
flight environment makes quadcopters difficult to control and often dangerous. While
gyroscopes and accelerometers help provide information to the quadcopter for navigation, onboard sensors can slowly lose their calibration accuracy and cause the craft to drift. This
research started testing alternative sensors by building a quadcopter and then taking video of its
flight. By using camera data from a stationary reference point, this research was able to prove
that navigating a quadcopter with external sensor data could be possible (but was not achieved)
with the correct data link. With the camera onboard the quadcopter and real-time image
processing software, the quad could potentially have an extremely powerful navigation system.
Student Author(s): Dakota Murray, Senior, Computer Science Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Rahman Tashakkori, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Mathematics, Oral Session 1 , 10:15 - 10:30 AM, Room 8A
Single Channel Source Separation Applied to Beehive Audio Recordings
Colony collapse disorder is the term given to the global widespread death of honey bee hives.
Honey bee pollination is directly responsible for one third of the food that humans eat; when
honey bee populations decline, so does the global food supply. Researchers addressing the
problem analyze data which may include audio files recorded from bee hives. Often these audio
recordings are less than ideal and may contain interference or background signals. Analysis of
corrupted recordings may produce confounding results. The goal of this thesis is to demonstrate
a technique which could be applied to recordings of beehives to suppress background noise and
provide higher quality signals for researchers to analyze.
Student Author(s): Dakota Murray, Senior, Computer Science Appalachian State University
James Corsi, Sophomore, Computer Science, Appalachian State University
Timothy Ransom, Freshman, Computer Science, Appalachian State University
Scott Shuffler, Junior, Computer Science, Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Rahman Tashakkori, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Education, Oral Session 1 , 9:30 - 9:45 AM, Room 7B
Teaming Up to Develop Components for an Automated Grading System for Computer
Science Education
The demand for coding skills and computer science backgrounds are steadily increasing around
the world. Teachers and Professors often desire more engaging and customizable methods to
present computer science concepts to their students. The Web Automated Grading System
(WAGS) provides a unified resource to instructors to create, assign, and
evaluate conceptual exercises in the classroom. WAGS functions on mobile devices and on
desktop computers and applies easy drag-and-drop interfaces to complex coding exercises. The
system hosts a repository of pre-created problems demonstrating fundamental computer
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science concepts such as sorting, string manipulation, hashing, binary trees, and many more. In
the case that an exercise does not fit an educator’s needs then they are given the ability to create
their own exercises. WAGS is developed over several years by a team of undergraduate and
graduate students and is continuously being updated with new interfaces, support or new
programming languages, and implementation of new and useful features. This project is an
excellent example of how undergraduate students with different levels of experience can
participate in a large project and effectively contribute to its development. This presentation will
provide examples of students’ contributions.
Student Author(s): Molly Musselwhite, Senior, Biology University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Mentor(s): Rachel Smith , University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Anatomy and Physiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM,
Room 1 Poster Number 9
Measuring and Interpreting the Effects of Gravity on Human Biochemical Processes
Each year, NASA’s Reduced Gravity Education Flight Program selects a handful of universities
from across the country to participate in a unique opportunity to experience research in a zero
gravity environment while onboard NASA’s “Weightless Wonder,” a microgravity research
aircraft. Our research focused on measuring and interpreting the effects of gravity on human
biochemical processes, such as the Cori cycle and immune response. The Cori Cycle produces
energy for muscular contraction during intense muscular exercise, and the human immune
response protects the body from pathogens. During previous fights on NASA’s microgravity
aircraft, we found that microgravity had an effect on both biological processes. During the Cori
Cycle experiment, we focused on the reaction between Pyruvate and Nicotinamide adenine
dinucleotide (NADH) in the presence of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) to form Lactate. During the
immune response experiment, we focused on the reaction between antibody anti
immunoglobulin G (A-IgG) and the antigen Immunoglobulin G (IgG). We visually observed and
recorded the mixing rate as pyruvate was converted to lactate in the presence of dye and as IgG
bound with A-IgG in the presence of dye. During July 2014, the team traveled to Houston, Texas
to conduct our experiments on board NASA’s microgravity research aircraft. Afterward, ground
truth measurements were compared to measurements made while on board NASA’s
microgravity research aircraft. Our findings show that there is a decreased mixing rate during
microgravity compared to ground truth data, which we believe may directly lead to the lower
reaction rates acquired during previous flights.
Student Author(s): Russell Nasrallah, Senior, Environmental Science Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Chris Thaxton, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Earth Science, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 44
Correlation of satellite-born and ground-based atmospheric aerosol optical depth
measurements
The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on-board the EOS Terra and Aqua
satellites, and the Multi-angle Imaging Spectroradiometer (MISR) on-board the Terra satellite,
are remote sensing platforms that measure aerosol optical depth (AOD) across the globe. In this
paper, we present a method for validating the measurements from the satellite-based systems
using the ground-based Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) automated network of
instruments. AOD retrievals made from 2010-2013 were compared to temporally concurrent
measurements taken at the AERONET site, located at the Appalachian Atmospheric
Interdisciplinary Research (AppalAIR) facility on the Appalachian State University campus in
Boone, North Carolina. The correlation between TaMODIS and TaAERONET were found to have
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an R2=0.7196 over the 3 year measurement period. Seasons from 2010-2013 were then
collectively analyzed for correlations between TaMODIS and TaAERONET with the following
results: JFM R2= 0.3566, AMJ R2=0.6843, JAS R2=0.7700, and OND R2=0.3477. The results indicate
that the AppalAIR site has the best correlation to the AERONET data during the summer months
when atmospheric aerosols are at their highest.
Student Author(s): Elliot Nauert, Junior, Psychology University of North Carolina - Asheville
Abbey Allen, Senior, Psychology, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Sarah Luca, Senior, Psychology, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Mentor(s): Patrick Foo, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 15
Effect of Brain Training through Lumosity™ on Flexibility in College Students
Interest in improving cognitive function, especially through the use of technology such as webbased training programs, has been on the rise. One of the most popular of these programs,
Lumosity™, claims that widespread improvements in cognition can result by training particular
sets of cognitive skills, but there is little scientific evidence to support this. We have identified
one of these skills, cognitive flexibility, as being of particular interest in exploring the efficacy of
Lumosity™, as well as the mechanisms behind the claimed effects.
To accomplish this, we are recruiting undergraduate students to participate in Lumosity™’s
program, focusing on flexibility-specific training tasks, for 6 weeks. Pre and post test measures of
flexibility and fluid intelligence from this group will be compared with those from three control
groups: no-contact control, active control with Sudoku puzzles, and active control with a trivia
task. The data will be analyzed to observe any training based skill transference outside of
Lumosity™’s games.
Additionally, it provides an opportunity to comment on the use of brain training games and
similar programs in pedagogy at the college level. This project should provide insight on the
mechanisms underlying cognitive flexibility, and how it is integrated into the overall behavioral
output system.
Student Author(s): Tebogo Ndlovu, Senior, Engineering Mathematics Saint Augustine’s
University
Mentor(s): Taher Saif, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Presentation: Engineering - Biomedical, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 51
Effect of Fibroblast Cells on a Soft Substrate during Connective Tissue Formation
Forces exerted on and between cells are conveyed into biochemical signals through several
molecular mechanisms. These mechanical forces also bring about various shapes that
correspond to the specific functions of the respective tissues. This project describes the physical
action of fibroblasts as they migrate on polymeric organosilicon beams. The structures formed
by the fibroblasts is discussed, as well as the relationship between the magnitude of the
mechanical force and the particular original shape of a given substrate. Knowledge of shapes
formed during tissue formation is vital in developing models for tissue structure and formation
in vitro for applications in tissue and organ regenerative medicine.
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Student Author(s): Victoria Neff, Senior, Theatre Education and Theatre for Youth East Carolina
University
Mentor(s): Hector Garza, East Carolina University
Presentation: Arts - Performing, Oral Session 1 , 10:00 - 10:15 AM, Room 8B
Heroine/Harrowing Circumstances— To Be or Not to Be a Role Model in a Glass (Ceiling)
Menagerie
This paper explores how famous female characters express societal views and expectations for
actual females and presents ways new works can provide expanded options, liberating
performers and audiences from restrictive preconceptions. Evidenced by characters like Ophelia
from Shakespeare’s Hamlet and Laura Wingfield from Williams’ The Glass Menagerie, these
bonds limit audiences and performers from envisioning more rounded roles for female
characters—in art and in life. Like Virginia Woolf who felt she—and her audience—must “kill the
‘Angel in the House’” to find their own voice and strength as artists, professionals, and
individuals, I, too, as a burgeoning educator and performer, feel compelled to give students a
wider array of choices and perspectives beyond the stock characters and expectations that
reinforce skewed visions of females by calling attention to characters who are either oppressed,
submissive “Angels” or rebellious femme fatales, obeying or reacting to male definitions and
demands, and by then creating space for female characters committed to and successful at
pursuing personal goals and freedoms. This paper examines how playwrights and typical
classroom selections too often depict young women trapped in terrible situations and how,
despite all their weaknesses, these female characters still hold sway over audiences, influencing
male and female students’ perceptions and expectations about gender roles and power,
particularly the power inherent or forbidden in a female character’s options. Finally, this paper
emphasizes ways traditional and newer works can help enhance performers and audiences’
options, providing more realistic, vibrant, and memorable character role(model)s.
Student Author(s): Lura Nentrup, Senior, English Secondary Education Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Kirsten Clemens, Appalachian State University
Presentation: English, Oral Session 2, 11:15 - 11:30 AM, Room 8A
Creation Myths and the Rise of Patriarchy
The Semitic Akkadian people conquered the non-Semitic Sumerians around 2300 B.C.E.,
transforming the culture while keeping many aspects of Sumerian culture, including their oral
myths, deities, and system of writing. After the Akkadians conquered the Sumerians, Inanna was
renamed Ishtar, lost status, and was given a singular role as the goddess of fertility. A direct
result of the cultural shift away from a strong female role in society is seen through the
transformation of the Sumerian goddess, Inanna, to the Babylonian goddess, renamed Ishtar,
who was significantly less powerful, lacked the same prestige as her predecessor, and
highlighted the deterioration of status the new culture placed on women. During the Babylonian
era, emphasis was placed on expansion and empire-building due to population growth. The need
for warriors to protect the empires exploited the combat skills of men. The transition from
village life to an urban lifestyle caused a Mother Earth figure to become less significant and
placed more priority on warriors in order to protect and continue expanding empires. As a
result, less attention was spent on roles that women previously filled, and creation myths began
to center around male deities and noble heroes, leading up to the Heroic Ages.
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Student Author(s): Justine Neville, Senior, Environmental Technology & Management North
Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Nichols, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 10
Municipal Wastewater Fate
In North Carolina, several municipal wastewater treatment plants dispose of their primary
wastewater onto tree plantations consisting of species that can tolerate possible toxicants
residing in this water. Once applied, this water, which may contain pharmaceuticals, eventually
reaches surface waters as groundwater. Our specific study site was Gibson, North Carolina,
located in the western part of the state. Samples were collected from January to October 2014
using methods outlined by the USGS Field Manuel for Collection of Water Quality-Data. Using
stable hydrogen and oxygen isotopes and chloride concentrations, as a secondary tracer, a
preferential flowpath of the municipal wastewater was determined from the waste application
field to surface water. Ongoing efforts will help create a hydrological model for the site and
contribute towards developing a water budget of the site in order to estimate the export of
contaminants from the wastewater lagoon into surface waters.
Student Author(s): Paige Newhouse, Sophomore, History Duke University
Mentor(s): Adriane Lentz-Smith, Duke University
Presentation: History, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 23
How German museums present migration and integration and how this affects Germany’s
public understanding of multiculturalism.
I researched how German museums present immigration and integration and how this impacts
public understanding as part of the Duke German Department’s Mapping Multiculturalism grant
and the Duke History Department’s student funded research. I visited around thirty museums,
primarily in Berlin, and interviewed five museum curators, including those from FHXB
Kreuzberg-Friedrichshain, Museum Neukölln, Jüdisches Museum and the Dresden-Hygiene
Museum. Additionally, I interviewed an archivist from the Documentationszentrum and
Museum über die Migration in Deutschland (DOMiD), and a Berlin-based migration expert. This
research project explored multiculturalism in Germany through the presentation of human
rights and integration in German museums. I specifically focused on how Berlin museums
present the integration of multicultural immigrants, specifically Turkish immigrants, into
German society. Understanding how and why Berlin museum curators present immigration
allows the audience to better understand the topic presented and the goal of museum
coordinators. For this symposium, I plan to focus on differences between nationally funded
museums and nonprofit or district funded museums. While nationally funded museums present
migration and integration as separate from German history and immigrants as distinct from
ethnic Germans, district funded and/or nonprofit museums show immigrants as part of the
community or a component of society.
Student Author(s): KayLynn Newton, Junior, Biology Meredith College
Mentor(s): Francie Cuffney, Meredith College
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 17
Comparing Methodology For Water Testing In Urbanized Areas
This study was conducted to characterize the quality of streams with regards to the impacts of
increased urbanization local streams. Experiments included testing the quality of water in areas
of pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, temperature, and the presence or absence of Escherichia Coli
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at three local creeks and Meredith Pond. Methodologies were compared for the variables of pH,
Dissolved Oxygen, Turbidity, Temperature and temperature using the World Water Day testing
kit and a more traditional method. E. Coli growth was compared at different temperatures and
using BioPaddles versus MacConkey agar. Results from this study showed some inaccuracies in
the World Water Day kit that we used in comparison to methods known for accuracy, and
showed the presence of E. Coli in all of the streams, but the maximum amount of growth was
obtained using the MacConkey agar at 37 C. We were able to create a small portable kit with a
mixture of materials to take abroad to do some similar testing in the Dominican Republic.
Student Author(s): Kim Nguyen, Senior, Aerospace Engineering North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Mark Pankow, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Mechanical & Aerospace, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 55
Modeling 3D Woven Composites
The research focuses on the modeling of 3d woven composites (3DWC). Laminated composites
have been extensively studied and their material properties can be calculated. Due to the amount
of testing done on them, they can also be simulated with high confidence. However, the same
cannot be said about 3DWC. 3DWC are very complex to model as well as simulate and many
theories for how they should be modeled have been investigated. This summer research focuses
on modeling 3DWC through both a simplified model and a more complex model using programs
such as ABAQUS and DFMA. The models try to capture the impurities involved with woven
composites, such as kinks and waves caused when the tows are tensioned to create a compact
sample. Additionally, the models try to capture how exactly the additional z-tows can help
reduce the impact energy and will be examined later with high speed cameras.
Student Author(s): Katie Nichols, Senior, Biology Greensboro College
Mentor(s): Jessica Sharpe, Greensboro College
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Oral Session 4, 3:45 - 4:00 PM, Room 3
A Physiological and Sociological Exploration of Sports-Related Concussions
Research demonstrates there is not a direct correlation between education of signs and
symptoms of concussions and reporting. My study explores influences besides education on an
individual’s perception of and involvement in concussion perception and management. I
hypothesized that lack of long-term knowledge about concussions paired with the influence of
media, teammates, coaches and parents shapes athletes perception of concussions as well as
her/his reporting habits. Data was collected from two focus groups of male and female athletes
who participated in an NCAA Division 3 sport at Greensboro College for at least one year. The
represented sports were cheerleading, volleyball, softball, baseball, and football. The qualitative
data collected was analyzed and concluded that athletes lack knowledge of long-term effects of
concussions and that media and coaches have the greatest influence on perception of the injury
and the athletes reporting habits.
Student Author(s): Kevin Nicolle, Junior, Mechanical Engineering East Carolina University
Joshua Webster, Junior, Mechanical Engineering, East Carolina University
Tyler Martin, Junior, Mechanical Engineering, East Carolina University
Edward Bryant, Junior, Mechanical Engineering, East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Tarek Abdel-Salam, East Carolina University
Presentation: Engineering - Mechanical & Aerospace, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 25
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Experimental Investigation of Aerodynamic coefficient of a Human Powered Vehicle
As we approach a time where petroleum based transportation is becoming insufficient,
economically based modes of transportation with a sustainable energy source are in demand. By
improving specific design aspects of eco-friendly or human powered vehicles, refinements must
make the vehicles expend their energy in a most efficient manner. Aerodynamics is one of the
key components in creating an energy efficient design. Modifications to the outer fairing can
significantly reduce drag which improves energy consumption. Testing different fairing styles
and designs will yield very different results based on the drag force, and moment created when
the vehicle is subjected to high and low speeds. These parameters will be tested on scaled 3D
models in a wind tunnel, and the results will be analyzed to find the most efficient fairing design.
Student Author(s): Kevin Nicolle, Junior, Mechanical Engineering East Carolina University
Joshua Webster, Junior, Mechanical Engineering, East Carolina University
Tyler Martin, Junior, Mechanical Engineering, East Carolina University
Edward Bryant, Junior, Mechanical Engineering, East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Tarek Abdel-Salam, East Carolina University
Presentation: Engineering - Mechanical & Aerospace, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 23
Three-Dimensional Numerical Study of Flow Around a Human Powered Vehicle
When attempting to achieve higher fuel efficiency or ease of movement for machine and human
powered vehicles, the vehicle’s aerodynamics is the main area to focus on improving. In order to
save time and money, the aerodynamics of new designs can be tested using 3D modeling
software and mathematical calculations. In this analysis, Solidworks modeling and flow
simulations were used in order to theoretically test the differences between four designs. These
were model fairings used on Eco-Friendly vehicles to decrease drag across the vehicles surface,
thus increasing overall top speed. Each model has a design characteristics based on the model
designer’s preferences and knowledge in regards to aerodynamics.
Student Author(s): Kimberly Noel, Senior, Chemistry Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Carol Babyak, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Analytical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 23
Water Quality Monitoring of Streams Impacted by Coal Waste Acid Mine Drainage in
Southwest Virginia’s Clinch River Basin
Four stream sites in Southwest Virginia were monitored before, during, and after the removal of
garbage of bituminous waste (gob) piles to determine the impact of acid mine drainage on water
quality and the effectiveness of remediation. A stream near the disposal site in the Shupe Creek
watershed was also monitored after the coal waste was deposited there. Total metals (Al, As, Cd,
Cu, Cr, Fe, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, Se, Zn) and inorganic anions (SO42- and Cl-) were measured via
inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and ion chromatography
(IC). Onsite temperature, pH, turbidity, and conductivity measurements were made during each
sampling event using digital data acquisition probes. Previous results indicate good water
quality overall both before and after remediation. Future work will involve continued
monitoring of the streams, determination of method detection limits, and the use of statistical
analysis to determine how the gob piles affected water quality of downstream sites and the
impact of remediation.
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Student Author(s): Allan Oduor, Junior, Associates In Engineering Wake Technical Community
College
Mentor(s): Ewan Pritchard, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 62
Improving Data Visualization for a VESSD
This project entails the redesign of an LED monitor, which is part of an integrated Vehicle Energy
Storage & Solar Demonstration (VESSD) system. The system also includes a solar powered
electric vehicle charging station coupled with an energy storage system. The monitor’s purposes
are to display data visualization regarding energy generation and flow between components in
real time and also provide an educational visual display for visitors to the FREEDM Systems
Center. Our current user interface is facing the challenge of obsolescence and lacks the creative
aesthetic appeal required to engage with visitors. The goal of this project is to redesign the
monitor by introducing a modern redesign. The redesign includes multiple color schemes,
Google Web Fonts, as well as new creative and compelling data visuals to keeps users engaged.
Student Author(s): Jeffrey Ollison, Senior, Environmental Technology & Management North
Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Nichols, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Earth Science, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 61
Monitoring Unknown Discharge in Rocky Branch Stream
Rocky Branch creek is a tributary that crosses the southwestern portion of the NC State main
campus in Raleigh, N.C. Prior observations of the stream have noticed a point-discharge from a
submerged pipe behind Carmichael Gymnasium into the stream. The discharge is periodic and
cloudy in appearance. I collected data on water quality in the stream above and at the discharge
location. Ionic conductivity data were collected using a continuous data logger made by
Campbell Scientific Inc. model CR10 over several days. Concentrations of nitrate and chloride
data were collected by using Hach test strips at the stream. Deployment of the continuous data
logger and water samples were taken during strategic times determined by observation of
discharge. Ionic conductivity measurements show that discharged water from the gym has
greater conductivity than stream water. My results show that discharges typically occur
Tuesdays and Thursdays and that the discharged water contains distinctly different
concentrations of nitrate and chloride, respectfully.
Student Author(s): Frank O'Neill, Senior, Chemistry Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Jennifer Cecile, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 17
Inhibition of CeOAT by Interference with the Sodium Gradient
Organic anion transporters (OATs) excrete negatively charged xenobiotics including antiviral
drugs into the kidney and liver of mammals. This research focuses on a single mammalian OAT
homologue present in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (CeOAT). The CeOAT is thought to be
tertiary active, dependent on the Na+/K+ ATPase through the Na+ gradient that drives the sodium
dicarboxylate pump to create a favorable concentration of dicarboxylates (DCs) for exchange
with an organic anion. If the sodium gradient is manipulated in a way to decrease both the
cytoplasmic charge and the concentration of DCs intracellularly, CeOAT transport is expected to
decrease. Ouabain, a known Na+/K+ ATPase inhibitor, will be used to manipulate the sodium
gradient. Fluorescence microscopy was used to measure the uptake of the anionic substrate 6Carboxyfluorescein (6-CF) in the intestine. A dose response curve was formed measuring the
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fluorescence of C. elegans at concentrations of 0.25 µM, 1.0 µM, 2.5 µM, and 5.0 µM ouabain. The
5.0 µM treatment was shown to significantly inhibit CeOAT function by 13% ± 12% while the 2.5
µM treatment was shown to stimulate CeOAT function by 18% ± 13%. Future work will use
higher concentrations of ouabain to more fully inhibit Na+/K+ ATPase.
Student Author(s): Shannon Osborne, Senior, Biology - Human Biology North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Jonathan Horowitz, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 2
Affects of p53 Knockout in Overexpressing Sp2C Animals
The Specificity Protein (Sp) family of transcription factors consists of nine members, Sp1 to Sp9
(Suske 1999). Specificity Protein 2 (Sp2) is a member of this family of evolutionarily-conserved
transcription factors that are essential for the expression of genes that are required for
development and cell cycle progression. Over- expression of Sp2 is associated with human and
murine skin tumorigenesis. In keeping with this observation, over-expression of Sp2 in the
epidermis of transgenic hemizygous mice causes increased susceptibility to skin carcinogenesis,
wound-induced neoplasia, and alopecia. Mice that are homozygous, rather than hemizygous, for
the transgene die by post natal day three (Kim et al 2010). p53 is a multi-functional tumor
suppressor protein, and a variety of genetic and biochemical experiments have suggested that
Sp2 and p53 physically and functionally interact. p53 is known to activate DNA damage repair
proteins by pausing cell growth to allow for damage to be corrected before re-entry into the cell
cycle. This study will investigate the elimination of the p53 tumor suppressor protein in Sp2C
homozygous animals and whether or not this partially rescues mouse development and prolongs
post- natal survival.
Student Author(s): Crystal Owens, Senior, Mechanical Engineering Duke University
Mentor(s): Gabriel Lopez, Duke University
Daniela F. Cruz Duke University;
C. Wyatt Shields IV Duke University
Presentation: Engineering - Materials, Oral Session 1 , 9:45 - 10:00 AM, Room 5
Assembly of Microparticles into Well-Organized Crystallites in a Two-Dimensional
Acoustic Standing Wave
We present a simple technique to induce the acoustophoresis and assembly of microparticles
using bulk acoustic standing waves, and we simulate their behaviors using MATLAB. We
explored a variety of particle shapes, including polystyrene spheres as well as square and
hexagonal tile prisms synthesized lithographically from SU-8 photoresist. The acoustic assembly
chamber was comprised of two transducers placed on adjacent, vertical walls of a square
plexiglass chamber fixed to a glass base to generate a two-dimensional grid of pressure nodes in
ultrasonic standing waves. The dynamic rearrangement of particles into well-organized
crystallites at the pressure nodes was possible because the acoustic forces acting on the particles
arising from the differences in their density and compressibility compared to that of the carrier
fluid. We directly controlled the shape of the nodes by adjusting relative frequency and
amplitude of the input signal to the transducers. We then developed a Brownian dynamics
simulation in MATLAB of the modes of assembly formation resulting from primary and
secondary acoustic radiation and Stokes’ drag forces, and matched it to experimental results.
Finally, we imaged the resulting crystals using optical and scanning electron microscopy and
further characterized the crystals by Fourier transforms. This approach demonstrates the use of
an acoustic field for fine-tuned massively parallel microassembly, with potential applications in
metamaterials and biological assays. This work was supported by the NSF Research Triangle
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Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, the Pratt Fellows Program, and the Lord
Alstadt Foundation.
Student Author(s): Ashle Page, Sophomore, Chemical Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Wesley Tayon, NASA Langley Research Center
Presentation: Engineering - Chemical & Biomolecular, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 33
Impact of Asymmetric Deformation on Recrystallization in Spin-Formed Structures
In order to increase the efficiency of manufacturing aerospace structures, NASA researchers
have investigated spin-forming (SF) using aluminum alloy 2219 to enable fabrication of singlepiece structures. This near net shape manufacturing technique has been explored for
components and full-scale vehicles, including the Orion Crew Module forward pressure vessel
bulkhead. Single-piece construction eliminates the need for a significant number of welds and
reduces the material waste associated with machined, multi-piece constructions, while
increasing the reliability of the structure and reducing vehicle mass and cost. However,
deformation during forming appears to be asymmetric about the mid-thickness of the plate and
results in non-uniform microstructures after post-forming heat treatment. Significant variations
in recrystallization and grain growth were observed in SF components following solution heat
treatment (SHT) and may cause non-uniform material properties through the thickness of the
structure. This study investigates the impact of SF deformation and the associated throughthickness strain distribution on the extent of recrystallization and grain growth following SHT.
To evaluate this relationship, an asymmetric strain distribution was produced by hot rolling two
plates on top of each other. Through-thickness strain gradients and recrystallization before and
after rolling were analyzed using Digital Image Correlation (DIC), electron backscatter diffraction
(EBSD), and optical microscopy. Results from before and after rolling were compared to
determine the relationship between asymmetric deformation and degree of recrystallization.
Student Author(s): Tyree Parker, Senior, Engineering East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Zhen Zhu, East Carolina University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Oral Session 3, 1:45 - 2:00 PM, Room 4
Subsystem Design of UAS flight Control
In August of 2014, the IEEE East Carolina University Student Branch participated in an
autonomous quad rotor competition hosted by the US Air Force in Dayton Ohio. The quad rotor
had to complete a mission by navigating autonomously in a GPS-denied environment while
avoiding obstacles. The overall quad rotor system worked in three main systems: navigation;
flight control and sense and avoid; target recognition. This work presents the details of the flight
control system design. Flight control relies on three levels of control, 1) distance sensing via
SONAR and obstacle avoidance, 2) position estimation via optical flow and the position control
loop, 3) attitude sensing via IMU embedded in the flight controller and the attitude control loop.
It was assessed and determined that rotor and attitude control was the most sensitive process
that occurs during flight, thus designated as the most inner loop system. The position control
loop can be potentially affected by light conditions and is placed as the second-tier loop. The
distance acquired via the SONAR sensors was naturally susceptible to greater error due to noise
interference (surface condition, noise), it was designated as the most outer loop system.
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Student Author(s): Charles Parrish II, Senior, Biological Engineering North Carolina State
University
Alex Vinson, Senior, Biological Engineering, North Carolina State University
Justin Lloyd, Senior, Biological Engineering, North Carolina State University
Lauren Byrne, Senior, Biological Engineering, North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): John Classen, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Biological & Agricultural , Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 37
Regenerating fertilizer and fuel via anaerobic digestion of waste streams for Martian life
support
Bioregenerative life support systems (BLSS) can sustainably manage atmosphere, water, and
biomass for a Martian settlement by recycling waste products, thereby reducing demand for
resupply missions. BLSS organic solid waste streams primarily include byproducts from human
metabolism, food preparation and processing, and agricultural residues. These organic materials
can be recycled via anaerobic digestion, a biological process facilitated by a community of
microbes that perform four reactions: hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis, and
methanogenesis. Digestion products include mission critical consumables in the forms of biogas
and pathogen-free liquid fertilizer and solid soil amendment. Sixty percent of the biogas is
methane (CH4), which is used for heat, electricity generation, and propellant. The biogas
remainder, predominantly carbon dioxide (CO2), and the liquid and solid digester effluents
together support crop production. This study compares the effect of different co-substrate ratios
(1:3, 1:1, and 3:1) of swine feces-to-wheat straw on biogas yield in batch reactors under
thermophilic conditions. Swine feces serve as a simulant of human feces, and wheat straw, a
simulant of inedible biomass. Based on chemical oxygen demand, the co-substrates are
inoculated with a microbial community, mixed and diluted with diH2O to 3% total solids, and
continuously stirred during co-digestion for a digestion period of 10 to 15 days at 50°C. Biogas
volume is measured via fluid displacement, and the proportions of CH4 to CO2 are measured with
gas chromatography. Based on the kinetic data from the batch experiments, a full-scale
anaerobic digester will be designed for a crew of three female and three male, adult astronauts.
Student Author(s): Sagar Patel, Junior, Neuroscience and Biology Duke University
Mentor(s): Cagla Eroglu, Duke University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45
AM, Room 1 Poster Number 37
Glial Secreted Proteins Hevin and SPARC Regulate Synaptic Pruning
Neurons form bridges called synapses to relay information from one neuron to the next. During
early brain development, there is a critical period during which strong synapses are
strengthened and weak synapses are eliminated. This process of synaptic refinement is
fundamental to shaping the neuronal circuitry of the developing brain, yet the factors that
regulate it are poorly understood. Glial cells, such as astrocytes and microglia, are known to
regulate synaptic connectivity through secreted factors. Previously, we identified two highly
homologous proteins, hevin and SPARC, as important regulators of excitatory synapse formation.
Hevin increases the number of synapses in retinal ganglion cell cultures, while SPARC is
antagonistic to hevin’s synaptogenic activity. We also showed that retinal ganglion cells cultured
with hevin greatly increased the number of synapses whereas SPARC reduced synaptic
connectivity. In recent years, it has been shown that microglia play an active role in synapse
remodeling. However, the mechanism through which SPARC and hevin induce this synaptic
pruning is still unclear. I hypothesize that hevin acts as a stabilization factor for excitatory
spines, while SPARC functions as an antagonist to hevin as well as a signal for microglia to
initiate axonal pruning. Particularly, this study investigated changes in microglial activation in
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SPARC and Hevin-null mice. The results from this study provide an exciting possibility that hevin
and SPARC play an integral role in signaling microglial phagocytosis.
Student Author(s): Harsh Patolia, Junior, Biophysics Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Frank Marini, Wake Forest University
Presentation: Physics - Biophysics, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 48
BIOPHYSICAL QUANTIFICATION OF COLLAGEN FIBRILS IN MURINE BLADDER
EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX
The mouse has the remarkable capacity to fully regenerate its bladder after subtotal cystectomy
(STC); however, the underlying cellular and biophysical processes involved with bladder tissue
regeneration are unknown (Peyton et al, 2012). Mammalian bladder regeneration is
characterized mechanically by reorientation of Type I collagen fibrils in the extracellular matrix.
The anisotropic collagen matrix facilitates elastic contractile forces on the inner lining of the
bladder. Imaged through second harmonic generation (SHG) with two-photon excitation
microscopy (TPEM) and novel tissue clearing technology, we analyzed the collagen matrix of the
murine bladder and developed an approach to quantifiably compare regenerated and normal
murine bladders. This comparative approach facilitates a clearer understanding of the
biophysical mechanics of the regenerated bladder (Chen et al, 2012). Our analytical approach
involved the innovative implementation of structure tensor processing in MATLAB, where
individual vectors were generated based on the relative gradient of a grayscale maximum
intensity projection (MIP) of an image stack. Structure tensor processing is very powerful in
image processing and often utilized in edge detection protocols (Rezakhaniha et al, 2012). This
transformation recursively calculates the orthogonal basis for the eigenspace of the Hessian for
each pixel. The eigenvector in the eigenspace basis that corresponds to the larger eigenvalue
represents the direction orthogonal to the gradient. Residual image noise in the array is filtered
through another conditional transformation based on an intensity threshold. The resulting
vectors are then normalized into a dominant direction as well as coherence, a computational
metric for anisotropy.
Student Author(s): Walter Patterson, Sophomore, Biotechnology University of North Carolina Pembroke
Mentor(s): Len Holmes, University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Oral Session 4, 3:00 - 3:15 PM, Room 6
Comparison of Growth Kinetics Models Using Pseudomonas fluorescens
Pseudomonas fluorescens a soil dwelling gram negative bacillus species, was exposed to minimal
media containing limiting carbon substrates in shake flasks. The specific growth rates of the
exponential phase of the cultures were determined by means of the natural logarithm of the
optical density from the given cultures. The resulting specific growth rates were graphically
compared to the concentration of the limiting carbon substrate. The plotted data was then fitted
to mathematical models to determine the half-velocity constant (ks) for the given substrates as
well as a calculated maximum specific growth rate. The models resulting from the non-linear fits
were compared. The substrates used in this study were glycerol, fructose and glucose at varying
concentrations The models used in this study were the Monod, Moser and Tessier.
Student Author(s): Sarah Patterson, Senior, English Literature High Point University
Mentor(s): Laura Linker, High Point University
Presentation: English, Oral Session 3, 2:30 - 2:45 PM, Room 7A
Fractured Selves: Dislocating Identity in Angela Carter's Gothic Heroines
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Angela Carter is “a writer of contradictions” (Jordan 37). Her work is neither past, present nor
future, but rather draws from the past traditions of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries in
order to negotiate cultural constructions of femininity. Writing during the 1970s, a time of
women’s empowerment, Angela Carter invokes the gothic form to create a new female gothic
that questions women’s reading practices, subjects, and audiences. Her collection of stories, The
Bloody Chamber (1979) destabilizes fixed categories of being for women and subverts the
patriarchal order in its articulation of female characters. Carter’s heroines defy heteronormative
patterns of feminine idealism and instead redefine the gothic heroine’s disruptive ambivalence.
Ultimately, Carter’s heroines question what it means to assume an autonomous identity in texts
that reject aesthetic formulations of passive femininity. Carter inverts the triadic structure of
hero, villain, and heroine to redirect patterns of fear that have defined women’s roles in the
gothic. This fear stems not from ghosts or secluded locations, i.e. external forces, but the internal
construction of the “female” self. When her heroines assume socially constructed roles they
struggle to find a self. In looking for a self, there is no established pattern; they confront the
unknown and thus fear.
Student Author(s): Joseph Paul, Junior, Biology East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Aaron Gitler, Stanford University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Oral Session 4, 3:45 - 4:00 PM, Room 6
Modeling genetic interactions in C9orf72 associated ALS
Perturbations in RNA and protein homeostasis are a prominent feature of the motor neuron
disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Dipeptide repeat proteins generated from ALScausing repeat expansions in the C9orf72 gene elicit cell death and alter RNA metabolism. It is
unknown how these two observations might be related in the context of neurodegeneration. To
model these effects, we expressed each of the five unique C9orf72 dipeptide repeat proteins in
yeast and observed that poly-proline:arginine (PR) expression results in a marked growth defect.
We used an unbiased genetic screen to identify genes that influence the toxicity of PR and found
that genes encoding proteins involved in mRNA trafficking and nuclear function were
significantly enriched. Moreover, PR physically interacts with the nucleolus, a nuclear organelle
that coordinates stress response. This data suggests a broad cellular role for PR and provides a
platform for the discovery of new ALS mechanisms in higher organisms.
Student Author(s): Michaela Pavlusik, Senior, Economics/Political Science University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Mentor(s): Jacqueline Hagan, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: Sociology , Oral Session 1 , 10:00 - 10:15 AM, Room 3
Motivations for Migration from Poland to the United States
My research focuses on what motivates international migrants to leave their home communities
and travel to an unfamailar location abroad. My research was conducted mostly via extensive
face-to-face interviews with four migrants in North Carolina and Poland in 2013. The interviews
included questions about their decision to migrate, leave taking, their journey, and their life in
their new location in the southeastern United States. I found that the main reason for entering
the United States was economic, with opportunity for the immigrant's child(ren) as a secondary
motive. Each interviewee reported that challenges in the United States were minimal, despite
reporting some large hurdles throughout the course of the interview. Further, each interviewee
reported satisfaction in his decision to enter the United States despite these challenges, and
showed a strong and negative reaction when questioned about a possible return to his naitive
country.
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Student Author(s): Mishal PB, Freshman, Chemical Engineering North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Michael Dickey, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Chemical & Biomolecular, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 34
Self-Folding of Polymer Sheets Along Discontinuous Hinges
We have been studying the use of light to convert two-dimensional sheets into threedimensional objects in a process called self-folding. The sheets are composed of pre-strained
polymers with black ink printed on them that shrink when heated. The ink absorbs light more
efficiently than the rest of the sheet, making the polymer shrink at the ink features when exposed
to light. Understanding the distribution of heat and its effects on the polymers can help to
control self-folding polymers more efficiently in terms of timing and precision.
Using
polystyrene with pre-printed patterns, such as lines and zigzag patterns of squares and circles,
we expose the polymers to light, inducing self-folding. We believe they are more likely to deform
when features of the discontinuous hinges are more spaced or as the area density of ink
decreases. The polystyrene is exposed to a blue LED 1 cm above the sample and set on a hot
plate heated to 90 degrees Celsius causing the sample to fold under the light. The time taken for
the sample to move is recorded as the onset folding time. Our research has led us to believe that
the heat distribution along the hinges is affected more by the shape of the features and their
distance from each other than the ink ratio. Further research is necessary to closely examine the
folding tendencies of the polymers and the effects of different shapes of the features changes the
heat distribution along the hinges.
Student Author(s): Camille Peeples, Senior, Public Policy Duke University
Mentor(s): Jenni Owen, Duke University
Presentation: Social Work, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 30
The Children’s Advocate: Evaluating the Benefits of the Guardian ad Litem Program for
Children in North Carolina Abuse, Neglect, and Dependency Courts
The Guardian ad Litem (GAL) program is a court-administered program in North Carolina that
trains community volunteers to advocate for a child’s best interest in Abuse, Neglect, and
Dependency (A/N/D) Courts. The volunteers, known as Guardians ad Litem, are responsible for
collecting information by interviewing the child and other people involved in the child’s life in
order to recommend to the court how its decisions can best serve the child. Although the
program was created in 1983, few studies have evaluated how helpful the program is to North
Carolinian children who have been abused or neglected. This study uses both quantitative data
from publicly available sources and qualitative information from interviews to address this
question: does the Guardian ad Litem program help the children it was designed to
serve? Secondary questions follow: if the GAL program helps children, how does it do so and
what kind of help does it provide? The GAL program was instituted by the State of North
Carolina to provide a third party in the courtroom, investigate facts about the case, determine
the needs of the child, and make recommendations in the child’s best interest. While this report
hypothesizes that the GAL program does help children, evaluating the role of the GAL program in
helping children is a necessary step to verify and ensure the program's utility in the four judicial
districts near Duke University through quantitative and qualitative analysis.
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Student Author(s): Sherrell Pettiford, Senior, Laboratory Animal Science North Carolina A&T
State University
Mentor(s): Jenora Waterman, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Agricultural Sciences & Economics, Oral Session 2, 10:45 - 11:00 AM, Room 7B
Swine Production Style Influences Histological Morphology, Proteomic Dynamics and
Superoxide Dismutase Expression in the Tracheal Epithelium
In North Carolina, the majority of pigs are reared in swine confinement facility units (SCF). The
issue of diminished air quality in confinement facilities has resulted in chronic inhalation of SCF
dust particles, which have been shown to elicit and exacerbate respiratory abnormalities and
diseases in farm workers and potentially in pigs. SCF dust may cause inflammation, goblet cell
hyperplasia, protein infiltration into the airway and oxidative stress. The cells of the immune
system use superoxide dismutase (SOD), an endogenous enzymatic antioxidant, as a main line of
defense against oxidative stress. Therefore, we hypothesized that there are proteomic, goblet
cell, and SOD expression differences within the airway of pigs reared indoors compared to those
reared outdoors. Porcine tracheal portions were fixed, sectioned at six microns, stained, and
visualized for mucus-secreting goblet cells. Proteomic analysis and western blotting was used to
characterize airway protein expression changes in response to production environment.
Tracheal sections were also probed for SOD via immunohistochemistry (IHC) and visualized.
Statistical investigations were employed to evaluate significant differences among means
followed by Bonferroni post-test corrections. Histological evaluation of airway sections revealed
tracheal epithelia of pigs reared indoors are densely packed with goblet cells versus outdoors.
Proteins that play key roles in airway inflammation and cellular stress were identified. The IHC
showed more expression of SOD antioxidant within the airways of outdoor reared pigs versus
pigs reared indoors. These observations indicate animals reared indoors may have distinct
airway physiology compared to their outdoor counterparts.
Student Author(s): Olivia Phillips, Senior, Biological Sciences North Carolina State University
Mentor(s):
,
Michael Cove North Carolina State University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 7
Examining differences in activity patterns of the endangered Key deer within urban and
wild habitats in the National Key Deer Refuge: Inferences from camera trapping
Key deer, endemic to the Lower Keys, are a subspecies of white-tailed deer that were separated
from the mainland about 4000 years ago. Unregulated hunting and habitat loss decreased their
populations in the 1950’s. To restrict their apparent decline, Key deer were classified as
endangered and protected under the Endangered Species Act. While their populations have since
expanded, human residences have concurrently increased. Key deer have no natural predators;
therefore, humans and human resources have a large influence on their population densities.
There are concerns and anecdotal evidence that individuals utilizing urban areas are more
susceptible to mortality due to anthropogenic factors. As a result, it is likely that Key deer behave
differently in urban settings versus more remote areas. Our objective was to utilize camera trap
data to examine the activity patterns of Key deer along urban gradients, with the prediction that
behavior would change as deer moved away from residential areas. We also aimed to estimate
their overall activity patterns to examine how existing without natural predators might affect
their behavior. We predicted that in the absence of predators, Key deer would exhibit a
cathemeral activity pattern. We assessed detection data from 112 camera trap locations
partitioned into 100 m buffer segments from urban areas into wild areas. We then used temporal
kernel density estimators to predict Key deer diel activity patterns to identify the role of
urbanization and lack of predators on behavior. Our preliminary results suggest that despite the
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lack of predators, Key deer remain crepuscular.
Student Author(s): Lucas Piedrahita, Freshman, Industrial Design Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Joe Bryan, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Political Science, Oral Session 3, 2:15 - 2:30 PM, Room 7B
The US’s dysfunctional immigration system denies refugee status to Hondurans with
legitimate claims
With Honduras being the murder capital of the world, and 64.5% of people living in poverty, it is
no wonder that Hondurans are migrating en masse to seek asylum in the US. This paper explores
the living situations that Hondurans are leaving behind and the effects a mother leaving to find
work in the US has on her children’s lives. It also explores the reason that they choose to come to
the US: The US successfully exports the idea that it is the best country to live in. The benefits that
come from mothers leaving their children to search for work far out weigh the emotional issues
that the children may face being separated from their mother. It is easy to see why a Honduran
child or family would flee Honduras, a country riddled with corruption, poverty, and ruled by
gangs, and make the treacherous journey to seek refuge in The US. However, when, or if, they
make it there, they may be surprised to find a country that is not willing to help them. The US’s
dysfunctional immigration systems are irresponsibly and unjustly turning most of these children
and families away, even though it is obvious that they have a legitimate claim to seek refuge
there.
Student Author(s): Jessica Pierce, Freshman, Social Work Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Joe Bryan, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Political Science, Oral Session 4, 3:30 - 3:45 PM, Room 7B
Desire vs Reality: Mothers Coming to America
In 2012 there were 41 million undocumented immigrant women in the United States, many of
them coming from countries like Honduras and Guatemala. They make the dangerous journey
through Central America, where they face, gang violence, hunger, poverty, police brutality, and
the constant threat of death. Many of these mothers, when they leave their families are
considered selfish, when in reality they sacrifice more than many people can fathom. Once in
America they face low wages, discrimination, unfair work environments, and an unwelcoming
political system. For the average American citizen life is much easier than these mothers who
work long days, make little money and are treated poorly not only by their bosses, but by the
American government. Immigrant women in the United States made up 40% of all business
owners in 2010, creating jobs and fueling the economy. Because of the role these immigrant
women play in the American economy the U.S. government holds a certain responsibility to ease
some of the burdens they face once they make it to America.
Student Author(s): Gabrielle Pittman, Senior, Biology - Integrative Physiology and Neurobiology
North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Arohan Subramanya, University of Pittsburgh
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 38
Generation of WNK4 knockout cell lines with the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system
NCC, a kidney salt transporter important for blood pressure regulation, is activated by the
kinases SPAK and OSR1. With-No-Lysine (WNK) kinases are the only known activators upstream
of SPAK/OSR1. WNK1, WNK3, and WNK4 are expressed with NCC in kidney tubule cells, though
the individual contribution of each WNK to SPAK/OSR1 and NCC activation is unknown.
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Therefore, we created a WNK4 knockout cell line to investigate NCC function when this kinase is
absent. We transfected HEK293T cells with a human codon-optimized SpCas9 and chimeric
WNK4 guide RNA to introduce indels into the target gene. Edited cells were selected by
cotransfecting the CRISPR-Cas9 machinery with a surrogate reporter plasmid containing the
WNK4 target sequence. This reporter vector, when edited by CRISPR-Cas9, expresses eGFP,
allowing for FACS sorting and enrichment of cells which were more likely to contain genomic
editing. Pilot studies with the reporter construct indicated that editing of WNK4 target
sequences occurred in up to 20% of all cells transfected with the plasmids. Genomic editing was
confirmed in the enriched population by a mismatch-specific endonuclease assay, and we are
actively confirming protein knockout in individual clones by Western blotting for WNK4. With
these cell lines, we can now utilize them in experiments for biochemical analysis of protein
abundance, Co-IP interaction, and downstream kinase activity toward SPAK/OSR1 and NCC.
With these cells and optimized WNK4-specific vectors, we hope to create cell lines in which
multiple WNK kinases are knocked-out to elucidate their roles in kidney salt transport.
Student Author(s): Igor Podolsky, Senior, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North
Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Michael Dickey, North Carolina State University
Orlin Velev North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Chemical & Biomolecular, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 59
Design and Characterization of Shape-Programmable Multiresponsive Hydrogel Bilayers
via Ionoprint Patterning
Hydrogels are polymer networks that are extremely hydrophilic and can contain upwards of
95% water. Shape-transforming hydrogels have thus far been demonstrated as ideal functional
materials that can be used for the design of soft, “smart” systems that respond to their
environment. This behavior enables applications toward biomimetic materials, drug delivery
and soft robotic systems. We present bilayer hydrogel sheets whose bending direction is
determined by the enthalpy of mixing between the external solvent and polymer network.
Additionally, the radius of curvature can be modulation by the degree of ionic crosslinking along
the bilayer thickness. This leads to multi-responsive, hydrogel sheets which can be tuned to from
complex 3D structures from a 2D sheet. The degree of ionic crosslinking is modulated by a
technique developed previously in within our research group; a layer of poly(sodium
polyacrylate) (pNaAc) is injected directionally with copper ions in the presence of an electric
field through a technique known as ionoprinting. The injected ions create localized ionic
crosslinks leading to mechanical stresses in the hydrogel matrix. The patterned layers can then
be chemically linked to a thermally responsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAAm) layer
allowing us to control the final structure of a single sheet of hydrogel by pattern location,
temperature, and/or solvent conditions. We will present examples of hydrogel bilayer sheets
that respond to multiple stimuli by bending in different directions and adopting complex shapes,
and will analyze the role of the position of the ionoprinted patterns in directing these responses.
Such bilayers come closer to mimicking biological tissues that can perform numerous, complex
tasks with one pre-designed sheet structure.
Student Author(s): Vikram Ponnusamy, Junior, Biology Duke University
Mentor(s): Joe Heitman, Duke University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 31
The Role of DNA Repair Genes in RNA-Mediated Silencing in Cryptococcus neoformans
Cryptococcus neoformans is a fungal pathogen that primarily affects immunocompromised
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people and causes life-threatening meningitis. AIDS patients and organ transplant recipients
undergoing immunosuppressive therapy are the most vulnerable to this disease. Greater
understanding of regulatory mechanisms such as RNA interference (RNAi) can improve the
knowledge of the molecular biology of this pathogen. RNAi uses small noncoding RNAs to induce
transcriptional and post-transcriptional silencing of gene products, and it has roles in drug
resistance and genomic defense. In Neurospora crassa, it has been observed that the homologous
recombination gene RAD52 plays a role in RNAi. To determine whether RAD52 is also involved in
RNA based gene silencing in C. neoformans, we deleted RAD52 in both mating type a and α
strains of C. neoformans. By analyzing the RNAi silencing efficiencies during vegetative growth, as
well as during sexual reproduction, the role of RAD52 in mitotic silencing and sex induced
silencing was assessed.
Student Author(s): Sanjana Prabhu, Junior, Public Health University of North Carolina Charlotte
Mentor(s): Angela Rajagopalan, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Food, Nutrition, and Bioprocessing Sciences, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 39
"Healthy Futures Starting in the Kitchen": Evaluating a childcare facility staff training
program targeting childhood obesity in Mecklenburg County
Background: As of 2012, 30% of children in Mecklenburg County ages 5 and under were obese or
overweight. The “Healthy Futures Starting in the Kitchen” program was started in 2008 to teach
childcare facility cooks, teachers, and administrators basic nutrition and preparation of healthy
recipes that appeal to kids, using NAPSACC (Nutrition and Physical Activity Self-Assessment for
Child Care) principles. Since then, the program has been successfully implemented each year in
partnership with local community-college culinary arts professionals to train the participants in
a culturally appropriate manner. A new and improved program evaluation was needed for this
year's newly launched “201”-level course that catered to childcare facility cooks and
administrators. Method: An objective-based test was administered to all program participants at
the beginning and end of the four-week program to determine whether the program achieved
changes in participants’ knowledge and behavior. The 11 test questions were each scored on a 15 scale. Results/Discussion: Initial analysis with one-tailed t-test showed significant increase
from pre-test to post-test in mean question score values from 3.80 to 4.01 (p<0.05). Extended
analysis shows significant difference in scores of cooks and administrators to help assess if
appropriate participants are involved in program. This evaluation serves to provide continued
improvement in the program’s implementation techniques to better serve the childcare facilities
with childhood nutrition-related knowledge and behaviors.
Student Author(s): Victoria Purcell, Senior, Psychology Pfeiffer University
Khristin Isley, Senior, Psychology, Pfeiffer University
Elvira Moran-Estrada, , Senior, Psychology, Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Rosalie Kern , Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Psychology, Oral Session 2, 11:00 - 11:15 AM, Room 3
Personality doesn’t matter, it’s looks: Attractiveness and Social Media
The purpose of the study was to investigate if female undergraduate students would engage a
male on Facebook based on his physical traits. It was hypothesized that if participants engage
friends on Facebook based on attractiveness, individuals would engage more with attractive
people compared to unattractive people. There are other factors that counter this hypothesis,
such as females might think that the attractive man is ignorant or that the Facebook profile may
be fake. Fifty-five college students looked at one photograph, either an attractive male or an
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unattractive male. Under each photograph there was a description of the personalities of the
individuals. The descriptions of the personalities for both pictures were identical. The
participants were asked a series of questions to determine how much they would engage with
the person on Facebook. Results showed that engagement was higher for the attractive person,
compared to the unattractive person. Attractiveness, influenced the persons’ willingness to
engage on Facebook, rather than aspects of personality. Future research will consider testing
both male and females.
Student Author(s): Rebecca Purvis, Senior, Biological Sciences- Molecular, Cellular, and
Developmental Concentration North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Gerald LeBlanc, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Toxicology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 53
The Potential of Methyl Farnesoate, a Crustacean Hormone, to Activate Key Nuclear
Receptors Implicated In Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic syndrome, endemic in the US population, is comprised of symptoms including obesity,
high cholesterol levels, and insulin resistance, which can increase the incidence of type II
diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs)
are a class of nuclear receptors that regulate lipid and glucose metabolism when dimerized to
the retinoid X receptor (RXR) and activated by ligand. PPARα:RXRα signaling increases lipid
metabolism while PPARγ:RXRα signaling stimulates lipid accumulation and improves insulin
sensitivity. We hypothesized that the sesquiterpenoid hormone, methyl farnesoate, found in
crustaceans, would function as a dual agonist for these PPAR isoforms. To test this hypothesis,
luciferase- based transcription reporter gene assays were performed to assess the ability of
methyl farnesoate to activate human PPARα:RXRα and PPARγ:RXRα signaling. Methyl farnesoate
activated the PPARα:RXRα complex at concentrations as low as 10.0 microM and exhibited little
effect on the activation of PPARγ:RXRα at concentrations as high as 100 microM. Reporter gene
assays performed with the individual receptor subunits in the absence of the partner subunit
revealed that methyl farnesoate activated the PPARα:RXRα receptor by binding to the PPARα
subunit. The PPARγ subunit was weakly responsive to methyl farnesoate and the RXRα subunit
was not activated by methyl farnesoate. In conclusion, methyl farnesoate specifically activates
PPARα:RXRα signaling at levels that may be achieved through dietary supplementation, which
supports evidence that a diet high in crustaceans could be associated with decreased symptoms
of metabolic syndrome.
Student Author(s): Jessica Quah, Senior, Music Performance/English Greensboro College
Mentor(s): Neill Clegg, Greensboro College
Presentation: Arts - Performing, Oral Session 1 , 10:15 - 10:30 AM, Room 8B
Songs from a Bard Immortal: An Analysis of Three Settings of Shakespearean Text in Late
Romantic, 20th Century and Contemporary Art Song
Arguably the most important feature of the classical art song as established in its formal
conception, the lied, is its elevation of musical nuance and technicality to the level of the textual
content. It is this relationship of equality between the roles of voice and accompaniment, and
between language and music, that adds an illuminating layer to the communicative effect of art
song. Understanding that the overall concept of art song has its roots in the classical German
tradition of lied, this paper seeks to uncover the ways in which Shakespearean text may have its
literal and contextual meanings reflected in musical settings for voice and piano. Focusing on
three late- and post-Romantic settings of Shakespearean text – either lyric in its original poetic
form or dramatic excerpts treated lyrically – this paper will examine the means employed by
composers Ernest Chausson, Roger Quilter and Rufus Wainwright in enhancing or adding
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contextual and emotional meaning to the sung text.
Student Author(s): Layla Quran, Senior, Global Studies University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Mentor(s): Sarah Shields, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: Anthropology, Oral Session 3, 2:00 - 2:15 PM, Room 8B
Palestinian artists of Israel and the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement
The global Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement was launched and endorsed in
2005 by a majority of Palestinian civil society unions, organizations and political parties. The
BDS movement has three demands: equal treatment for Palestinian citizens of Israel, an end to
the occupation of Gaza, the West bank, and East Jerusalem, and the right of return for all
Palestinian refugees. My research focuses on the call for the cultural boycott and the reactions of
Palestinian artists living in Israel. Just as South African artists participated in the anti-apartheid
boycott movement in the 1980s, I am interested in how Palestinian citizens of Israel respond to
the call for the cultural boycott of Israel today. My research question is ‘How do Palestinian
artists in Israel respond to the call for a cultural boycott through their art and actions? Palestinians
living in Israel, as tax-paying citizens, have the option of receiving funds from the Israeli state or
Israeli cultural institutions. They also may collaborate with Israeli artists, and attend concerts by
international artists in Israel. Through several interviews with Palestinian artists in Israel, I
conclude that most artists do not accept funding from the Israeli government if it is conditional,
and may work with Israeli artists, but only if the individual they collaborate with speaks for
Palestinian rights. This research can be used to understand the support and critique of the BDS
movement, the interactions Palestinian citizens of Israel have with the state, and, the role of the
artist in daily politics.
Student Author(s): Aleksander Ratzloff, Junior, Computer Science Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Rahman Tashakkori, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Oral Session 2, 11:30 - 11:45 AM, Room 4
Analysis of Structured or Semi-structured Data on a Hadoop Cluster
Hadoop clusters have been used in recent years by many major information technology
companies to analyze their vast amount of data which are commonly referred to as "Big Data". A
Hadoop cluster can process a huge amount of semi-structured or structured data in an efficient
manner. This is done by assigning different amount of data to its participating client machines
with various processing speed and storage space. A Hadoop system is designed to efficiently
manage large data, but setting up a Hadoop cluster presents a major challenge as there are
limited standard procedures on this topic. A working Hadoop cluster can provide various
capabilities, including Mapreduce. This presentation provides details on how a Hadoop cluster
was set up and then utilized to perform analysis on a reasonably large data set using Mapreduce
approach. Examples of Hadoop utilization for analysis will be presented.
Student Author(s): Brittany Reece, Senior, Psychology Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Laura Coyle , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 8
Social Networking Use and Subjective Well-Being
This research explored the relationship between use of social networking sites (SNS) and
subjective well-being (SWB). It was hypothesized that increased social networking use would be
associated with decreased SWB. It was also hypothesized that Facebook and Instagram would be
associated with decreased SWB, while Twitter and Tumblr were hypothesized to be associated
with an increased SWB. Students at Fayetteville State University (N=173) completed an online
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survey with items related to SWB as well as demographic questions such as age, race/ethnicity,
and gender. Correlation results revealed that increased in-person socializing was associated with
increased social media use, implying that time spent using social media does not appear to
reduce face-to-face contact. Multiple regression analyses showed that increased Tumblr usage
was predicative of increased negative affect, and increased social media usage was shown to
predict decreased satisfaction with life.These findings were significant in that they revealed
some negative aspects of social media use. Also, the findings regarding Tumblr usage were
significant due to the lack of literature exploring Tumblr’s usage and its effects.
Student Author(s): Krista Region, Senior, Chemistry Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Jennifer Cecile, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 45
Investigating Organic Anion Transport in Caenorhabditis Elegans Through Fluorescence
Microscopy
Organic anion transporters (OATs) are members of the major facilitator superfamily responsible
for the excretion of negatively charged xenobiotics and drugs in the kidney and liver of
mammals. In this work, the function of a single mammalian OAT homologue present in
Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is investigated. Fluorescence microscopy illustrates
accumulation of the organic anion fluorescein in intestinal cells of C. elegans strain NL152 (which
lacks efflux protein p-glycoprotein isoforms 1 and 3 and the multidrug resistance-associated
protein isoform 1). Pre-treatment with the nonfluorescent anion probenecid decreased
fluorescein uptake by 36%, while pre-treatment with the dicarboxylate fumerate stimulated
fluorescein uptake by 17%. The results illustrate functional similarity to mammalian OATs and
suggest that the C. elegans may serve as a model for examining mammalian OAT transport.
Student Author(s): Alan Register, Sophomore, Bio-medical Engineering East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Zhen Zhu, East Carolina University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 26
Target Geo-Location Using Small UAVs and Camera Systems
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were affordable only to military and government
organizations in the past. However, with decreased cost of the sensors, electronics, and
airframes, there is significant interest in using low-cost UAVs among hobbyists, academic
researchers and industrial users. Applications such as mapping, search and rescue, patrol, and
surveillance require the UAV to accurately detect and geo-locate the object of interest. A UAV
target geo-location system will be discussed in this work. Target geo-location requires accurate
estimation of the UAV position. To add to the complexity of this system, in some circumstances
the UAV needs to operate in a global position system (GPS) denied environment. For example, in
indoor or urban environments, where GPS coverage is intermittent or completely unavailable, an
alternative positioning approach is need. Our team approached the geo-location and navigation
problems by using camera imaging. A small UAV copter can fly with only a low-cost inertial
measurement unit (IMU). Optical flow from a camera system can counteract the natural drift of
the position estimated with the IMU. A second camera system is used to detect the bearing
angles of a desired object. Finally, the object can be located though combining UAV position and
orientation, camera orientation with respect to the UAV, and the bearing angle. The uncertainty
of the object location can also be estimated accordingly.
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Student Author(s): Cristina Rekeibe, Senior, Music/Psychology East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Lori Curtindale, East Carolina University
Presentation: Psychology, Oral Session 2, 10:45 - 11:00 AM, Room 3
Musical Performance Perception and Heart Rate Variability
The purpose of this research is to better understand the relationship between performers’
perception of instrumental performance with and without an audience and physiological
measures. Musical performers experience the influence of various stressors, but the most
prevalent is the presence of an audience. This project will focus on the performance perception
of low brass instrumentalists. This project will begin with a survey of the participants’ prior
performance experiences, as well as current anxiety and anticipatory stressors during
performing. Measures of heart rate and heart rate variability will be taken during rehearsal and
audience performance as a physiological measure. Shortly after each performance setting, the
participants will be asked to self-report on their performance experience. The self-report
perception of performance and heart rate measures will be compared. The information gathered
from this project will be valuable to developing a further understanding of musicians’
performance experience.
Student Author(s): Meredith Richardson, Junior, English Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Laura Aull, Wake Forest University
Presentation: English, Oral Session 3, 1:45 - 2:00 PM, Room 7A
Interpersonal Engagement in First Year Undergraduate Writing
Although first-year (FY) college writing is important for student success, limited research exists
on how new college students write. Additionally, there are limited studies that examine linguistic
patterns within large collections of FY writing. Within these studies, most focus on discovering
patterns via quantitative rather than qualitative analysis. This research analyzes the way FY
writers use language to engage with their audience as well as take a stance toward evidence
from provided sources. To do so, I read a representative sample of Directed Self Placement (DSP)
essays of incoming FY students at Wake Forest and parsed them according to sentence-level
choices these writers make. This parsing was done based on Sarah North’s Disciplinary Variation
in the Use of Theme in Undergraduate Essays (2005). North sets up five categories by which to
analyze how writers, on a sentence level, take a stance toward the material they are writing
about. By looking most specifically at the use of “interpersonal themes” in students’ writing,
specifically in a low-preparedness corpus (i.e., those students who anticipated taking WRI 105 or
107) and a high-preparedness corpus (WRI 210 or 212) I identified components of academic
writing that distinguish students who feel more and less prepared and comfortable with collegelevel writing. The value of this research is that it begins to pinpoint how students who feel more
and less ready for college writing actually use language in their essays.
Student Author(s): Ashlyn Rickard, Senior, Physics University of North Carolina - Asheville
Mentor(s): Charles Bennett, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Presentation: Physics - Condensed Matter, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 52
Epitaxial Growth of Graphene by Thermal Decomposition of 6H Silicon Carbide Through
Infrared LASER Ablation
When a silicon carbide crystal is irradiated with ample infrared radiation, thermal
decomposition occurs. This results in a heteroepitaxial synthesis of graphene, an allotrope of
carbon that is of great interest and necessity in the fields of physics, engineering, and
biotechnology. Previous research shows that under a flow of argon gas with a tunable carbon
dioxide laser, graphene can be grown. The growth characteristics of graphene can vary based on
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the amount of incident radiation flux, atmospheric conditions and the radiation exposure time.
This research aims to better understand the effects on graphene quality due to these variations
in the ablation environment with a primary focus on exposure time and temperature. This
method of production has potential to yield a viable alternative approach for producing
graphene more specifically tailored to certain industrial applications in electronics and
nanoscale bioengineering.
Student Author(s): Johannes Riemann, Senior, Business Administration Queens University of
Charlotte
Mentor(s): Steven Cox, Queens University of Charlotte
Presentation: Business, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 4
Customer Research Study
HEIFO Rüterbories GmBH & Co. KG is an air conditioning and industry cooling engineering
company that is doing business mostly in Germany but also in Poland, Austria and Spain. They
wanted to understand how they were perceived by their customers. They had never done a
formal research study on customer satisfaction before. The HEIFO management team fully
supported the investigation. Questionnaires were sent to 600 customers by email. Questions
ranged from quality, service, price and the companies innovating abilities to communication
efficiency and expertise of technicians. The response rate was 6%. One of the interesting results
was that the fact many customers indicated that they appreicated HEIFO’s desire to understand
customer concerns HEIFO is currently using the research to meet customer needs better.
Student Author(s): Tori Rightmyer, Senior, Biology University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Mentor(s): Arthur Frampton, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Oral Session 3, 2:15 - 2:30 PM, Room 6
Identification of Antiviral Activity Associated with a Compound from the Marine
Dinoflagellate Amphidinium gibbosum
Equine Herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) causes respiratory infection, abortions, and in some cases, a
severe neurological disorder called equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). Recently,
our group screened a series of compounds derived from various marine microorganisms to
determine if any possess inhibitory activity against EHV-1. From this screen, we identified one
lead compound (AG2-8-F3-2), from the marine dinoflagellate, Amphidinium gibbosum. Currently,
we are investigating whether AG2-8-F3-2 displays similar levels of antiviral activity against
neurologic and non-neurologic strains of EHV-1. In this study, we are examining the 24 hour
yields of virus from cells that are treated with AG2-8-F3-2 versus cells that receive no
treatment. Additionally, we are evaluating the ability of AG2-8-F3-2 to limit the spread of EHV-1
from cell to cell by measuring the size of plaques that form in cells treated with AG2-8-F3-2
versus untreated cells. Data acquired from this study may lead to the development of new EHV-1
antivirals.
Student Author(s): Stephanie Rikard, Senior, Biomedical Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Melissa Srougi, High Point University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number
61
Loss of Functional ATM Activates Rac1 Altering Cell Migration
Rho proteins are a family of small GTPases, targeted to cell membranes, which cycle between
GTP-bound active and GDP-bound inactive states. Rac1, a subfamily member of Rho proteins, is
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required in the formation of the lamellipodium and membrane ruffling during cell migration.
Activated Rac1 is also required for the formation of cell adhesions, though its effects may switch
from promoting to antagonizing cell adhesions based on the cell type or extracellular
environment. Previous work from our lab has shown that Rac1 is regulated by ataxiatelangiectasia mutated (ATM), a protein kinase best known for its role in the DNA damage
response. Patients with ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) have a mutation in the ATM gene that causes
a lack of functional ATM protein. A-T patients experience severe neurodegeneration, an acute
sensitivity to DNAdamaging agents, and a predisposition to metastatic cancer. Our hypothesis is
that inhibition of ATM will increase activated Rac1, which will affect cell migration. We inhibited
ATM in HeLa cell lines and quantified activated Rac1 using an immunoprecipitation based assay.
Wound healing assays were used to study the effects on cell migration. Our results suggest that
inhibition of ATM causes an increase in activated Rac1 as well as increased time for wound
healing to occur. These data suggest that elevated levels of activated Rac1 may strengthen cell
adhesions and thus decrease cell migration. This work may provide insight into why A-T patients
have a predisposition to metastatic cancer.
Student Author(s): Zachary Riley, Junior, Chemistry Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Yvon Bryan, Wake Forest University
Pete Santago Wake Forest University;
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 43
Areal Analysis of Oropharyngeal Structures Using Digital Imaging for Pre-Anesthesia
Assessment
Subjectivity may cause confusion in the medical setting. In anesthesia, preoperative airway
assessments are used to predict the difficulty of intubation for a patient in order to help the
physician determine which devices to use during intubation. The current subjective methods
such as the Mallampati classification and Cormack-Lehane grading (Both measured from I to IV)
provide insight into patient intubation difficulty and glottis visibility. However, patients may
receive varying classifications and grades from physician to physician. This results in a physician
either over or underpreparing, regarding devices to use. Under preparation increased the risk of
problems during intubation resulting in oxygenation problems. Over preparation results in the
unnecessary use of specialized, expensive equipment. With the use of digital imaging, a quick
picture with a scale allows for a quantitative analysis of the mouth opening. Different measures
can be taken from a single image that could provide information about patient that would be
otherwise unavailable by simple observation. By measuring the area of the mouth occupied by
certain anatomic structures, as well as unoccupied space, we plan to correlate image data with
intubation (airway) outcomes. We will possibly be able to use this data together to form a
quantitative, objective measure with which to predict intubation difficulty. This method has
demonstrated consistency and repeatability with current image analysis. The software used is
free from the National Institute of Health, making it accessible. Research is ongoing.
Student Author(s): Holly Riley, Senior, Music Education University of North Carolina Greensboro
Mentor(s): Rebecca MacLeod, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Arts - Performing, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 1
Low Latency Audio Video: Potential for Teaching Jazz Improvisation Through Distance
Learning
Teaching music lessons online is becoming increasingly popular. However, a number of
limitations have been identified by researchers as challenges to online learning, such as: delay
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(Anderson, 2008; Brändström, Wiklund, & Lundström, 2012), proximity (Dammers, 2009), video
quality, audio quality, and cutout. Jazz improvisation is one musical skill that may be difficult to
teach online because this style requires immediate and sometimes simultaneous interaction
between the student and teacher. Teaching effectiveness may be compromised by issues with
delay and audio cutout in particular. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the
potential of a relatively new technology platform, LOLA (Low Latency Audio/Video), as a
distance learning tool to teach jazz improvisation. This study is a continuation of a pilot study
completed in May 2013 that compared the effectiveness of LOLA, PolyCom and Skype to teach
collaborative styles of music including: classical, old time, and jazz. Results indicated that
participants perceived LOLA as more effective than the other two, higher latency
technologies. In the present study, we wished to examine the potential for LOLA to be used to
teach improvisation in a group setting. The following research questions guided this study: 1)
Does LOLA provide an environment effective for teaching and learning improvisation? 2) Are
preservice teachers interested and willing to use this technology in the future for teaching and
learning?
Student Author(s): Jevonne Riley, Senior, Psychology Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Timothy Moore , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 9
An Analysis of Stress Levels in Undergraduate Students Involved in Organized Sports
This research seeks to focus on the stress coping mechanisms amongst college students by
analyzing the stress levels of the college student athlete versus the students that are nonathletes. It was hypothesized that the stress level average of student non-athletes would be
higher than those of the student-athlete. The collected data showed a significant difference in
stress levels between the two groups of Fayetteville State University students. Results showed
that the average level of stress experienced in the student non-athletes was higher than the level
of stress experienced in the student athlete, and that certain stressors hold higher rankings.
Future research will be conducted to further support our findings.
Student Author(s): Alyssa Ritchie, Senior, Biology University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Mentor(s): Arthur Frampton, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 42
Molecular Cloning and Characterization of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 Glycoproteins E
(gE) and I (gI) from the Neurovirulent Strain OHIO 2003
Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) causes abortions, respiratory problems, and neurologic
disease in horses. Glycoproteins I (gI) and E (gE) on the surface of EHV-1 virions are known to
contribute to the cell-to-cell spread of the virus and have been identified as virulence factors. To
investigate the properties of gI and gE from a neurologic strain of EHV-1, we first cloned these
genes into expression plasmids. We are in the process of generating a cell line that will
constitutively express both glycoproteins. This cell line will be used to complement a gI/gE
deletion virus and allow us to obtain data about the function of these two glycoproteins, which
were derived from the neurologic EHV-1 strain OHIO 2003. We hypothesize that gI and gE from
neurologic EHV-1 strains will be better able to mediate cell-to-cell spread and ultimately allow
for more efficient spread of EHV-1 from the bloodstream to the CNS.
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Student Author(s): Jacob Robbins, Senior, Physics and Applied Math North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Chueng Ji, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Physics - Nuclear, Particle, Atomic, & Molecular, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 51
A Couple of Different Coherent States in the Quantum Harmonic Oscillator
The typical coherent state of the harmonic oscillator is a quantum state with similar dynamics to
the classical motion of a simple harmonic oscillator. This typical state is obtained by applying a
translation operator to the ground state of the quantum oscillator. The goal of this project is to
derive a different coherent state through the application of a different operator to the same
ground state. The resulting coherent state has more complicated structure than the typical
coherent state or the ground state. The project has sought to catalogue the expectation values,
dynamics, and spectrum of the new coherent state and to compare these properties with those of
the typical coherent state. The results of this project could be used to model the flavor states of
neutrinos, which behave similarly to quantum oscillators. While this project has looked only at
the case of a single oscillator, in the regime of three coupled oscillators it may be possible to
construct a simple model of neutrino flavor oscillation, in which a neutrino oscillates through the
three different "flavors" of neutrinos.
Student Author(s): Forrest Robinson, Junior, Psychology Chowan University
Mentor(s): John Dilustro , Chowan University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Oral Session 2, 11:00 - 11:15 AM, Room 6
Soil respiration in a swamp forest, mixed deciduous forest, and planted pine forest within
the Meherrin River Field Site
Soils are large pools of carbon, and when carbon leaves the soil as carbon dioxide, it enters the
atmosphere as a greenhouse gas. This soil carbon flux is referred to as soil respiration, and is the
sum of the carbon dioxide produced by plant roots and all soil organisms. Soil carbon dioxide
emissions were measured in three forest types, a cypress swamp, a planted pine forest and a
mixed deciduous forest. These forests are located in the Chowan University research site
adjacent to the Meherrin River, in Murfreesboro, North Carolina. The three forest types produced
different soil carbon dioxide emissions, with the swamp forest having the highest emissions,
followed by the mixed deciduous forest, and then the planted pine forest. Soil respiration is
influenced by soil temperature, soil water content, and soil organic content. The measurements
of these parameters across these sites illustrated their influence across this range of forest types.
Soil moisture appears to be a main driving factor for soil respiration across the three systems
studied. Understanding the drivers of soil carbon output can help understand carbon balance
and productivity of these forest types.
Student Author(s): Margaret Ross, Senior, Chemistry East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Anthony Kennedy, East Carolina University
Presentation: Chemistry - Analytical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 25
Investigation of the interactions between sugars and model membranes.
Certain disaccharides have a stabilizing effect on the membrane bilayer of several
microorganisms, such as the tardigrade under extreme conditions. Since this cryopreservation
process is naturally occurring, it is important to understand the processes involved so that they
can be applied to human tissue, cells and organs. Infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning
calorimetry (DSC) were used to investigate the thermodynamic behavior of model membrane
systems perturbed by the presence of sugars. Understanding these interactions is important if
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successful cryopreservation techniques, based on those found in nature, are to be developed.
DSC data indicates that sucralose, an analogue of sucrose interacts with lipid fatty acid chains to
a greater extent than sucrose. It is believed that this is because the former is slightly more
hydrophobic and may displace water to a greater extent within the membrane itself. IR studies
are primarily focused on investigating the influence of these sugars on lipid headgroup
dynamics.
Student Author(s): Dustin Roten, Senior, Physics & Mathematics Appalachian State University
Joseph Peller, Senior, Physics, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Tyler Dula, Senior, Physics & Mathematics, Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Anthony Calamai, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - Atomic & Molecular, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 59
Production and Storage of Ne3+ for Radiative Lifetime Measurements
The reactive and radiative properties of intermediately charged Neon ions are of interest to a
variety of applications, including: terrestrial and astronomical plasma diagnostics and precision
tests of atomic structure theories. In order to study the reactivity and radiative dynamics of Ne 3+,
a process was developed to systematically optimize ASU’s cylindrical radio-frequency (RF) ion
trap to create and store triply-charged ions. Using the RF ion trap, ion clouds were generated by
bombarding Ne gas at nano-Torr pressures with electrons. The energy and temporal duration of
the impact electron-beam was systematically varied in this work. The ions were stored for
several milliseconds and then ejected from the trap into a time-of-flight (TOF) path by applying
voltage pulses to the trap end caps. The 82-cm TOF path is terminated by an active-film electron
multiplier where ions of different charge are resolved into TOF spectra. Ion-trap/TOF spectra for
the evolution of the relevant charge states and a discussion of the pending radiative lifetime
measurements of the 2s22p3 2P3/2 and 2P1/2 metastable levels of Ne3+ will be presented.
Student Author(s): John Ruckelshaus, Junior, Political science, philosophy Duke University
Mentor(s): Russell Powell, Boston University
Presentation: Philosophy & Religious Studies, Oral Session 3, 2:30 - 2:45 PM, Room 3
Identity, Autonomy, and the Essentiality of Disability: Examining the Medical and Social
Models
Since the 1970s, scholars have clashed over how to interpret the phenomenon of disability. The
two paradigmatic disability interpretations, or models, diverge in their conceptions of where the
true locus of disability lies. The medical model maintains that disability stems from one's
physiological impairment, while the social model suggests that societal barriers discriminate
against certain people and thereby create the category of disabled. The answer to the puzzle of
the causal origins of disability is profoundly important, informing how governments allocate
medical resources and how society views those presumed disabled. And yet, relevant scholarship
has paid little attention to the implications these models of disability hold for personal identity.
This philosophical paper addresses this intellectual deficit by drawing out and comparing the
conceptions of identity that are at present only implicit in the models. I will argue that both
models presume that disability plays an essential role in one's personal identity. Furthermore, I
will show that this essentialist theorizing is harmful because it restricts individual autonomy. At
the end of the paper, the reader will have gained an understanding of the problems inherent in
both disability models and the importance of taking seriously disabled persons’ freedom of
personal identity and autonomy.
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Student Author(s): Blake Rumble, Senior, Biology and Spanish East Carolina University
Mentor(s): David Rudel, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Toxicology, Oral Session 3, 2:00 - 2:15 PM, Room 5
Dual electrochemical and physiological apoptosis assay detection of in vivo generated
nickel chloride induced DNA damage in Caenorhabditis elegans.
Environmental nickel exposure is known to cause allergic reactions, respiratory illness, and may
be responsible for some forms of cancer in humans. Nematodes are an excellent model organism
to test for environmental toxins, as they are prevalent in many different environments. Nickel
exposure has been shown to impact nematode life processes and Caenorhabditis elegans
exposed to NiCl2 featured high levels of programmed cell death (PCD) in a concentrationdependent manner. A green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter transgene was used that
highlights cell corpse engulfment by fluorescence microscopy. Analysis of the reporter in a p53
mutant strain putatively indicates that the PCDs are a result of genomic DNA damage. In order to
assay the potential genotoxic actions of NiCl2, DNA was extracted from nematodes exposed to
increasing concentrations of NiCl2 and electrochemically assayed. In vivo damaged DNA was
immobilized on pyrolytic graphite electrodes using the layer-by-layer (LbL) technique. Squarewave voltammograms were obtained in the presence of redox mediator, ruthenium
trisbipyridine (Ru(bpy)3(2+)), that catalytically oxidizes guanines in DNA. Oxidative peak
currents were shown to increase as a function of NiCl2 exposure, which further suggests that the
extracted DNA from nematodes exposed to the nickel was damaged. This report demonstrates
that our electrochemical biosensor can detect damage at lower Ni concentrations than our
physiological PCD assay and that the results are predictive of physiological responses at higher
concentrations. Thus, a biological model for toxicity and animal disease can be assayed using an
electrochemical approach.
Student Author(s): Allyson Ryan, Senior, Genetics North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Reade Roberts, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 19
RNA-Seq Analysis of Sexually Dimorphic African Cichlid Species M. lombardoi
African cichlid fish species possess incredible diversity in pigmentation phenotypes, including
different color morphs for males and females. Most Lake Malawi species with yellow and blue
color morphs have yellow females and blue males. This is reversed only in Metriaclima
lombardoi. All juveniles express a blue pigmentation with black bars, but as they age the males
begin to change to yellow while the females retain blue pigmentation. We examined this
transition throughout development using an epinephrine treatment to contract chromatophores.
The caudal fin was then photographed using a camera-mounted compound microscope. These
images are analyzed using Image J to obtain melanophore counts throughout development. The
emergence of xanthophores, which are responsible for yellow pigmentation, is also tracked
under the microscope so that initial sex can be assigned to individuals. Chromatophore
differentiation and migration was also examined through tissue regeneration, following
amputation of a small piece of tail fin. We are currently using a Bowtie, TopHat, and Cufflinks
based computational pipeline to analyze Ion Torrent Proton RNA-Seq data in an attempt to
discover differential gene expression, in previously annotated transcripts or novel, between
color morphs. In addition, single gene expression is being quantified using qRT-PCR and Sanger
sequencing.
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Student Author(s): Harry Rybacki, Senior, Computer Science University of North Carolina Greensboro
Mentor(s): Shan Suthaharan, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Oral Session 1 , 9:30 - 9:45 AM, Room 4
An IPython Notebook Based Approach for Refining Ellipsoid Boundary Modeling based
Anomaly Detection Algorithms for Use In Wireless Sensor Networks
Anomaly detection in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) is vital for cleaning erroneous or
malicious measurements from the data and detecting unusual events in systems like forest fire
monitoring networks, water quality monitoring networks, and structural health monitoring
networks. One common method of detecting anomalies is ellipsoid boundary modeling. In this
method, sensors collect two or more correlated variables that are then used to model the
boundaries of ellipsoids that assist in segregating true measurements from anomalies.
Suthaharan et al. (2010) have shown that calculating the successive differences between
randomly selected data points results in an identically independently distributed Gaussian
distribution. This property can be used to calculate robust ellipsoid boundaries mapping each
point from the distribution function to its corresponding raw measurement data point. This
method results in increased anomaly detection rates as well as decreased false positives when
compared to other ellipsoid boundary modeling approaches. However, despite gains in accuracy,
the generated models using successive differences are complex, and transmitting the data
required is often impractical due to energy limitations in WSNs. In this project, we provide a tool
for investigating and refining ellipsoid-based models with techniques including successive
differences. Using an IPython Notebook--an interactive Python environment useful for
exploratory data analysis and computation--we demonstrate exploration and comparison of
models using both synthetic datasets and real datasets from Intel Berkeley Research Laboratory
and Grand St Bernard. This exploratory environment will provide researchers the ability to
examine the trade-offs between accuracy and efficiency in order to optimize and choose the ideal
anomaly detection technique for a given WSN use-case.
Student Author(s): Alexandria Salisbury, Junior, Anthropology and Archaeology University of
North Carolina - Greensboro
Mentor(s): Donna Nash, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Anthropology, Oral Session 3, 1:45 - 2:00 PM, Room 8B
Engendering Predynastic Egypt
From 4400 to 3100 B.C.E., people inhabiting the Nile Valley transformed from mobile
pastoralists to sedentary farming villages and ultimately became citizens of an emerging state.
Scholars studying state developments often follow social evolutionary models proposed by
Lewis Henry Morgan and Frederick Engels. This model explains that early on in villages, women
who were active producers in early horticultural societies held a relatively equal standing with
men, while women in early states became items of possession and lost their position in the
public domain. In this paper I examine the cemeteries from the Badarian (4400-4000 B.C.E.) to
Naqada III (3200-3100 B.C.E) periods. I compare grave goods associated with women and men
to assess potential changes in gender roles, gender relations and the relative status of women
through time. With this data I evaluate androcentric assumptions about state emergence and
introduce an engendered perspective to the study of Predynastic Egyptian women.
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Student Author(s): Sophia Samir, Senior, Neuroscience East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Stefan Clemens, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 67
Behavioral Data Points Towards an Age-dependent Morphine Tolerance caused by
Dopamine 1 Receptor Upregulation in Dopamine 3 Receptor Knockout (D3KO) Mice
Dopamine (DA) is a major catecholaminergic neurotransmitter that modulates nociceptive
pathways in the spinal cord. We have shown recently that dopamine D3 receptor knockout mice
(D3KO) were resistant to morphine both in vivo and in the isolated spinal cord in vitro, and that
spinal D1 expression was upregulated in D3KO. Here, we addressed the question if D3KO truly
are resistant to morphine, or if they are tolerant instead. Additionally, we hoped to determine if
by modulating D1 receptor activities, we could improve the efficacy of morphine administration
in D3KO. We tested withdrawal latencies for two different age groups of D3KO (2 month and 1
year) with varying dosages of treatment groups which included morphine at varying doses (2
mg/kg; 5 mg/kg respectively), D1 antagonist (0.1 mg/kg), and morphine-D1 antagonist
combinations (2 mg/kg + 0.1 mg/kg; 5 mg/kg + 0.1 mg/kg) respectively. We found that at higher
doses of morphine (5mg/kg), withdrawal latencies in 2 month D3KO increased significantly as
opposed to 2 mg/kg morphine, but that neither concentration was sufficient to significantly alter
withdrawal latencies in the 1 year D3KO cohort. Further, in young but not old animals, coadministration of the D1-antagonist and low-dose morphine increased withdrawal latencies.
However, D1-antagonist co-administration was only effective in the old animals with the higher
dose of morphine. Together, these data suggest that the D3KO animal may be model to study
morphine tolerance in the spinal cord, and that the interaction between morphine and D3
receptors might be mediated via the D1 receptor system.
Student Author(s): Kiffinae Sanders, Junior, Industrial & Systems Engineering North Carolina
A&T State University
Rohith Nama, Senior, Industrial Engineering, North Carolina A&T State University
Jamari Guy, Freshman, Industrial Engineering, North Carolina A&T State University
Mentor(s): Tonya Smith-Jackson, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Engineering - Industrial & Systems, Oral Session 1 , 10:00 - 10:15 AM, Room 7A
Analysis of Dementia Caregiver Activities to Support Requirements Gathering for
Technology Design
Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily
life. Approximately 360,000 new cases occur every year. Taking care of dementia patients poses
various challenges as they need to deal with agitation. In this research, we conducted a task
analysis of caregiver activities. The results of the task analysis will inform the design of a
technology to support caregiver decision-making and management of the person with dementia.
A conceptual model of a decision support tool will be developed to facilitate caregiver’s
management of the person with dementia. We propose to develop a human computer interface
application to remind the caregiver to perform tasks based on temporal and sequential
rules. The task analysis of daily activities of the caregivers will be translated to task lists, which
will be separated based on time of day. Features include a task input application, a function to
rate difficulty or problems associated with the task, and the effectiveness of specific
interventions. We will also implement notification and help icons along with the task.
Functioning of notification will be based on ergonomic design and we will be using navigation
buttons for help.
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Student Author(s): Akshay Sankar, Freshman, Microbiology North Carolina State University
Teja Peddada, Freshman, Microbiology, North Carolina State University
Pavan Pratyush, Freshman, Microbiology, North Carolina State University
Justin Ledinh, Freshman, Microbiology, North Carolina State University
Goutham Subramanian, Freshman, Microbiology, North Carolina State University
Avinash Ganapathi, Freshman, Microbiology, North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Thomas Lentz, North Carolina State University
Carlos Goller North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Oral Session 3, 2:30 - 2:45 PM, Room 6
Bioremediation of Heavy Metals in Leachate Using Metallotolerants
The issue of leachate contamination in freshwater aquifers has plagued waste management for
centuries. Leachate, a water-based mixture of soluble constituents of waste matter from landfills,
often contains noxious heavy metals including arsenic, cadmium and lead. Heavy metal pollution
from poorly managed landfills has often been cited as a dangerous problem: over 137 million
people across the globe suffer from arsenic poisoning from drinking water alone. Landfills, as
biodiversity hotspots, host a broad range of bacteria from mesophiles to extremophiles, which
are bacteria or other microbes equipped with unique abilities to cope with extreme
environments. Naturally occurring bacteria in landfills and leachate may have metallotolerant
abilities that mitigate heavy metal toxicity. To test the hypothesis that such extremophiles are
present, samples of waste material were collected from the Wake County East Transfer Station.
In future work, DNA extraction, deep-sequencing and genomic analysis will identify the microbes
found in these samples. These results will be cross-referenced with current literature to identify
naturally occurring microbes with metallotolerant behavior. Final results will be applied in the
creation of a microbial lining in landfills to mitigate heavy metal pollution of freshwater aquifers
and arable land. Such a lining has the potential to stabilize economies and social structures
suffering from a high incidence of heavy metal poisoning as a result of improper waste
management. Manual care and maintenance of waste in such areas is one solution to this
problem. However, with rising costs of labor and maintenance, a self-sufficient microbial
alternative may be more viable.
Student Author(s): Akshay Sankar, Freshman, Biological Sciences Duke University
Mentor(s): Hiroaki Matsunami, Duke University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Neurobiology and Behavior, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 68
Understanding the Molecular Recognition of Anesthetics Using Computational Procedures
Ketamine is a well-known anesthetic with a wide variety of pharmacological effects, including
analgesia, and sedation. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms and molecular
recognition of this molecule remain unknown. Olfactory G protein couple receptors (ORs),
distributed widely around the central nervous system and are distinguished for ligand-binding
diversity, are ideal candidates for anesthetic interaction, specifically molecular recognition of
ketamine. Data obtained from the Matsunami Lab through an in-vitro screen for OR ligand
activation, identifies four mouse ORs that respond to ketamine in a concentration-dependent
manner. A combination of homology modeling, and restrained molecular dynamics was used to
construct plausible protein models of MOR1361. Sequence alignments of homologues were
created using automated methods with manual refinement and initial coordinates and
geometries were assigned using MODELLER. The transmembranes were refined and optimized
to relax side-chains and reduce artifacts of the homologues. Molecular dynamics simulations of
the resulting structures in a lipid based environment was conducted in conjunction with docking
of the ligand ketamine. Dynamic docking allows for more accurate determination of key
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ketamine binding residues. The resulting models were validated using Ramchandran plots,
MolProbity, and hydrogen bonding and rotamer analysis. Computational results are still under
evaluation in preparation for experimental validation through site-directed mutagenesis. Virtual
screening is a possible alternative if complications arise. If successful, the ability abolish and
introduce responsiveness in specific receptors through experimental validation may suggest a
signature binding pocket. Such a pocket can be further explored to identify more candidate
ketamine receptors.
Student Author(s): Dianne Scardino, Freshman, International Business Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Joe Bryan, Appalachian State University
Presentation: English, Oral Session 4, 3:15 - 3:30 PM, Room 7A
No Immigrants? Big Problem
In 2011, Alabama passed an immigration law that didn't turn out the way they planned. By
passing the law it became illegal to hire, rent to, educate, and provide transportation or housing
to any undocumented person. This law was made to drive out illegal immigrants and provide job
opportunities to legal citizens. This resulted in a labor shortage that ended in refugees being
imported to work because there were not enough local residents willing or qualified to work the
jobs. Alabama thought it would be a good idea to get rid of all undocumented people in their
state but it turned out to be a detriment to their workforce and economy. There are 2.4 million
farmworkers in the United States and 50-70% of them are undocumented workers (Farmworker
Justice). The number of undocumented workers are critical to the country’s economy and the
well being of the agricultural field in the United States. The US needs to be finding new and easier
ways for these undocumented workers to be here legally. Doing so will help the economy
immensely and improve the industries in which these undocumented people work in. The
government could make the path to citizenship a little more user friendly. They could develop
and implement better guest worker programs that would make it easier for farmers to get
enough workers. There are plenty of things the government could do to keep these workers in
the country legally and benefit the economy even more.
Student Author(s): Cole Schanilec, Junior, Excercise Science University of North Carolina Wilmington
Mentor(s): Robert Boyce, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Anatomy and Physiology, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00
PM, Room 1 Poster Number 3
Job Activity Classification and its Relationship with Musculoskeletal Discomfort
The amount of physical activity that is required on the job can affect the musculoskeletal health
of employees. More research needs to be done to classify the physical activity required of a job
and its relationship with musculoskeletal discomfort in the university setting. PURPOSE: To
report the percentage of employees that experience body part musculoskeletal discomfort and to
compare the musculoskeletal discomfort incidence between sedentary and moderate to very
high job activity. METHODS: ANOVA, Chi-Square models, and percentages were used to analyze
an anonymous university staff ergonomics questionnaire including gender, height, weight, job
activity classification, and musculoskeletal discomfort. The musculoskeletal scales ran from 0-5;
with 0 being no discomfort and 5 being very uncomfortable. Moderate to high (discomfort>3)
and low (discomfort<2) groups were selected for comparison against sedentary and moderate to
very high job activity classifications. RESULTS: Employees with active jobs reported higher
percentages of body discomfort in leg, knee, and foot, 29%, 31%, and 26% respectively. No other
body parts were found to be significantly different between active and sedentary positions.
CONCLUSION: Body discomfort is similar between sedentary and active jobs in the upper body,
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however active jobs result in greater discomfort in the lower extremities.
Student Author(s): Alfred Scher, Junior, Physics Appalachian State University
Crystal Patteson, Junior, Physics, Appalachian State University
Scott Dickerson, Junior, Physics, Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Jennifer Burris, Appalachian State University
Brooke Hester Appalachian State University;
Anthony Calamai Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - General, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 49
Fluorescence Decay Measurement Apparatus
The optical characteristics of ruby (Al2O3:Cr) are observed when a ruby is excited by
electromagnetic radiation. It is well known that rubies fluoresce when exposed to visible light.
Following optical excitation into the 2E metastable states, the chromium ions in the crystal return
to the ground state with the emission of ~694 nm photons and a radiative lifetime τ. By counting
the ~694 nm photons emitted as a function of time, we determine an average radiative lifetime
for the 2E levels and also obtain low-resolution spectra of the red-lines of the ruby
fluorescence. In this paper, we present our efforts to develop an apparatus for use in our senior
capstone course in Physics & Astronomy and also present preliminary data associated with our
work.
Student Author(s): Gunnar Schettler, Senior, Physics Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Jennifer Burris, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - Biophysics, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 63
Raman Spectroscopy of Biofilms
Biofilms are collections of microorganisms encased in a matrix composed of extracellular
polymeric substances (EPS). These biofilms represent the preferred way of life for most
microbial organisms living on Earth. Information regarding the structure and chemical
composition of EPS composed matrices could be beneficial to industrial, medical, food and other
health related industries, where potentially harmful biofilms may be present. Not only do
biofilms account for billions of dollars in lost industrial productivity, but also gaining a better
understanding of biofilm composition could lead to better methods for treating bacterial related
disease and infection. Raman Spectroscopy offers real time identification and classification of
unknown objects using non-invasive optical techniques to gather spectrum that is representative
of the compounds molecular structure. Raman spectra are whole-organism spectral fingerprints
that can be used to identify different bacteria and can also be used to help determine structure of
biofilms. Our current research includes investigations into biofilms composed of vibrio cholera
using Raman Spectroscopy as our optical technique.
Student Author(s): Sara Scott, Freshman, Communications Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Kirsten Clemens, Appalachian State University
Presentation: English, Oral Session 4, 3:45 - 4:00 PM, Room 7A
Portrayal of Youth
One of the contemporary concerns in American society includes the emphasis on children being
in a fierce rush to grow up. When directing the film Hook in 1991, Steven Spielberg intertwines
his concern regarding childhood development through a comical, modern work. The film is a
celebration of youth, pertaining to the importance of enjoying the privileges of being young,
despite the inevitable fact that people do grow older. The premise of the film introduces Peter
Banning, the grown-up version of Peter Pan, who is a work obsessed corporate lawyer. While
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Peter deals with reality away from Neverland, the influential power of this enchanting place
permits him to make an imperative decision to transition from living in the midst of “evil”
adulthood to being captivated by the wide-eyed wonders of adolescence. The miniscule details
within the mise-en-scène add to the childlike effects of the film. The setting of Neverland
symbolically represents an eternal childhood where those who dwell there can live in blissful
innocence. The director portrays this setting to back up the vital message regarding living life
with the perspective of a child. Spielberg highlights the importance of possessing childlike
attributes through the character development of the protagonist.
Student Author(s): Allen Scurlock, Senior, Molecular Biology East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Rachel Roper, East Carolina University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 46
Characterization of the Vaccinia Virus O1L Protein
Smallpox (Variola) has been eradicated since 1980, however it continues to pose a bioterrorism
threat. Monkeypox also causes human infections in Africa, and in the US in 2003. The current
vaccine for smallpox and Monkeypox (live Vaccinia virus), is unsafe for pregnant women, the
immunocompromised, and anyone with eczema. Understanding poxvirus virulence mechanisms
will aid in the development of safer vaccines. The Vaccinia O1L gene is a highly conserved
virulence factor. In order to study the gene more closely, we created O1L knockout mutants. In
this study, we characterize the O1L protein for the first time. We made anti-O1L antibodies and
investigated O1L production in BSC-1 (monkey kidney) and HeLa (human) cells using western
blotting. We found that O1L is approximately 107 kDa, much larger than the predicted 78 kDa.
These data suggest that the protein is glycosylated and that the predicted transmembrane region
is functional. Furthermore, we have now shown that the O1L is present in the nucleus of infected
cells. Characterizing O1L expression and localization will shed light on how it functions to
enhance virulence in mammals. We will also use these antibodies to localize the protein by
immunofluorescence and to identifying proteins that interact with O1L.
Student Author(s): Samantha Sells, Senior, Political Science Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Ana Iltis, Wake Forest University
Presentation: Political Science, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 20
Embrionic Stem Cell Research: Variations in State Law
Federal regulation on embryonic stem cell research (ESCR) has recently expanded federal
funding for research on already existing stem cell lines, but public funding and regulation of
ESCR on new stem cell lines or involving the destruction of embryos remains the responsibility
of the states. State regulations on these issues vary wildly, without an obvious pattern to the
degree of restriction or regulation. Research has been done on the factors behind variances in
other areas of state law, but very little research has been done on ESCR state law, a gap this
study tries to help fill. Factors that potentially contribute to the passage of ESCR law were
collected into a database and compared statistically with measures of state law restrictiveness.
While these are correlative statistics that don’t prove causation and other factors also correlate
with different aspects of the state law, public opinion on abortion and the religious affiliation of
the state population seem to have the greatest effect on the regulation of ESCR, as they
significantly correlate with all major measures of restriction or permission and with the
presence of laws in a state.
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Student Author(s): Brian Seo, Senior, International Studies North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Carol Ann Lewald, North Carolina State University
Presentation: International Studies, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 25
Good Governance within Urban Water Management: Lessons Learned from Singapore
With the increasing urbanization in the 21st century, urban water management is more complex
and crucial as the demand grows exponentially to serve the expanding population. The most
important factor in urban water management is good governance, which incorporates
appropriate demand management, stakeholder engagement and efficient governance structure
of the water management agency. Singapore and Istanbul are able to provide sufficient access to
clean water for the citizens of each city despite having more geographic challenges than other
cities because of good governance. Through case studies and a literature review, this research
showcases Singapore and Istanbul’s efforts for appropriate demand management, extensive
stakeholder engagement and efficient governance structure of their water management agencies.
In addition, it suggests how other cities such as Istanbul and Mexico City could possibly apply the
lessons learned from Singapore and Istanbul, cities that have successfully implemented good
governance in order to conduct sustainable management of their entire water cycle.
Benchmarking the strengths of Singapore will provide useful insights to ways governance could
improve in Istanbul and Mexico City.
Student Author(s): Priyang Shah, Senior, Economics & Public Policy Studies Duke University
Mentor(s): Ken Rogerson, Duke University
Presentation: Economics, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 2
Examining the public discourse surrounding Healthcare.gov: An investigation into the
media’s coverage
Governments regularly rely on technology to implement policy. While technology development
itself is normally not a part of legislative directives, it is an indispensible part of how laws play
out in citizens’ lives. The integration of technology and policy, however, does not always go
smoothly, a reality often borne out in the public media. The implementation of the landmark
Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act through its web site Healthcare.gov is, arguably, one
of the most important examples of this connection between federal policy, technology, and
media. Unfortunately for the administration and its supporters, the website faced myriad issues
from long wait-times to server errors that brought the historic legislation to a standstill. The
media covered the event closely, employing a variety of viewpoints and methodologies that
helped and hurt the administration. This project looks into the public discourse surrounding the
website four months before and two months after its initial rollout. While it does not explain
actual causes, it does attempt to explain differing perceptions of the problem and its cause in the
media’s coverage. This project analyzes media coverage from the left and the right in online
newspapers and televised broadcasts to understand how two specific characteristics, subject
matter and media ideology, affect the tone of the media’s coverage. The goal of the project is to
not only understand the website’s perceived failures but also to understand, to a greater extent,
how certain issues can affect the media’s portrayal of key government initiatives.
Student Author(s): Shiva Sharma, Senior, Health Care Administration Methodist University
Mentor(s): Dr. Warren McDonald, Methodist University
Presentation: Business, Oral Session 2, 11:30 - 11:45 AM, Room 7A
The Effects of Case Management on Frequent Emergency Department Users
The purpose of this research is to demonstrate the negative effects of emergency department
frequent users, and to introduce a utilization approach called case management, to help alleviate
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the growing problem. The research is supported by case studies, personal interviews from case
managers of Southeastern Health, WakeMed, and various hospitals in the state of North Carolina,
as well as statistics provided on the Internet. The goal of this research is to show how the United
States health care costs are escalating due to the overutilization of the emergency department,
and to offer a workable solution to help offset some of the costs.
Student Author(s): Yihui Sheng, Freshman, Asian Studies University of North Carolina - Chapel
Hill
Mentor(s): Li-ling Hsiao, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: Foreign Languages & Literature, Oral Session 2, 11:00 - 11:15 AM, Room 8B
Harmony of Wine: Interpretation of Confucian Harmony through Wine’s Production and
Development, Social Role, and Religious Function in The Book of Songs
The purpose of analyzing Confucian harmony especially through wine poems in the Book of
Songs (Shijing) is not only to specify the abstract conception to a common, daily object, but also
to demonstrate how the philosophical idea can be applied in ancient society. The author’s
interpretation mainly focuses on three concepts. First, wine’s production and purification
represent elements of incompatibility in achieving equilibrium under human effort. This part
also highlights the similarity between wine and another kind of food hegeng in which he means
harmonious and geng is a soup-like dish. Such comparison better demonstrates wine as a
metaphor for Confucian harmony. Second, the wine ritual indicates equilibrium between ethics
and behaviors. This part includes the analysis of the rules on group drinking and individual
drinking and emphasizes balance between moral code or desire and performances. Last but not
least, wine’s religious functions reflect the harmonious cooperation among Heaven, humans, and
Earth. This part discusses importance of human forces to magnify the benefits given by Heaven
and Earth, and also underlines timing as the fundamental rule for such improvement. This paper
concludes that wine is a metaphor of wen (cultured), a human ethic achieving Confucian
harmony.
Student Author(s): Mehr Sher, Senior, International Relations North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Raja Abillama, North Carolina State University
Presentation: International Studies, Oral Session 2, 11:15 - 11:30 AM, Room 8B
Effects of the Nation-State System on Tribal Societies: Case Study of the Pashtuns
The Pashtun people are a tribal society, which straddle the border between southeastern
Afghanistan and northwestern Pakistan. While the Pashtuns have maintained their identity, they
have been struggling throughout history with nationalism and independence from British
imperialism, to the nation-state system, Soviet occupation, and the current War on Terror. Since
the creation of the Durand Line in 1849, marking the border between Afghanistan and British
India (modern-day India and Pakistan), the nation-state system has divided and displaced the
Pashtuns. Furthermore, the state of Pakistan has failed to effectively integrate its Pashtun
population politically, economically, and socially. I will examine, in a historical perspective,
policies addressing the Pashtuns that have been implemented by state governments in the
region. The policies that have been utilized have been counterproductive in integrating them and
have further isolated them. It is in the interest of the United States and the international
community to support the stabilization of Pashtun society in Pakistan, a long time U.S. ally, in
order to preserve international peace and security. As such, I argue that in order to successfully
integrate Pashtuns into the existing nation-state structure, less confrontational policies that
maintain harmony with their tribal structure and traditions must be instituted.
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Student Author(s): Sam Sherman, Senior, Mathematical Economics with a double major in
Spanish Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Amanda Griffith, Wake Forest University
Presentation: Economics, Poster Session 4, 2:45 - 3:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 1
To Skip or Not to Skip: Do we perform rationally on standardized tests?
In today’s increasingly competitive corporate and academic atmosphere, methods for testing
human ability are in high demand, and standardized tests such as the SAT are the most
commonly used metrics. Skipping a question on these tests can have important consequences,
and previous empirical research suggests that confidence, risk-aversion, and a competitive
atmosphere may play a role in this decision. Thus, I build a two-question model to test how
changes in confidence and risk-aversion affect the decision to leave an answer blank when the
test is administered in a competitive versus noncompetitive setting. In the noncompetitive
model, I find that test-takers who are risk-averse should always answer more and skip fewer
questions as their confidence in getting each question right increases. In the competitive model,
in which test-takers are scored relative to each other, the optimal strategy for a test-taker is
independent of his/her risk-aversion level, and is generally to skip fewer questions as he/she
increases in confidence. In a real-effort experiment in which Wake Forest students take a
standardized test, most test-takers perform rationally: they never answer a question at a certain
level of confidence and skip another question despite being more confident in their answer to
the latter question. Despite the predominance of rational behavior, I find that underrepresented
minorities act irrationally far more often than other groups. Furthermore, my findings suggest
that the irrational test-taking behavior of underrepresented minorities can be explained by the
fact that these groups have, on average, both lower confidence and lower scholastic ability.
Student Author(s): Aubrey Shipley, Senior, Physics University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Mentor(s): Susan Trammell, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Physics - General, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster Number
54
UV-laser Induced Autofluorescence of Porcine Pancreatic Tissue
Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Most
pancreatic cancer patients will die within the first year of diagnosis, and just 6% will survive five
years. Currently, surgery is the only treatment that offers a chance of cure for pancreatic cancer
patients. Unfortunately, accurately identifying the margins of tumors in real-time is a significant
difficulty in pancreatic cancer surgery and contributes to the low 5-year survival rate. Our group
is developing a spectral imaging system that can be used in real-time during pancreatic cancer
surgery to determine tumor margins and improve survival rates. Pancreas tissue shows a strong
autofluorescence signal at approximately 380 nm and 450 nm when illuminated with a 337 nm
UV nitrogen laser. These emission features correspond to the proteins collagen and NADPH,
respectively. The ratio of the collagen to NADPH lines strengths is an indication of the overall
health of the tissue and provides a way to map healthy and unhealthy tissue. In this study, we
investigate if exposure to the nitrogen laser damages healthy porcine pancreatic tissue and the
stability of the line ratio during continuous laser illumination. In addition, we simulated diseased
tissue by damaging porcine pancreatic tissue with an IR laser and compared the line ratios of the
healthy and damaged tissue samples to determine how much the lines ratios changed. These are
important questions for the development of our imaging system because we are using these
emission measures as makers of healthy and diseased tissue.
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Student Author(s): Ryan Siebens, Junior, Biology/ Health Science Guilford College
Mentor(s): Erin Ehmke, Duke University
Melanie Lee-Brown Guilford College
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Zoology and Animal Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15
PM, Room 1 Poster Number 50
Sex-typed Behaviors In Infant Lemurs
Sex-typed behaviors have been fascinating researchers in the behavioral study fields for years.
When an animal starts to exhibit specific behaviors related to their perceived expected sex roles,
it can begin to shine a light on social structures and group dynamics.
This study investigated the presence, or lack thereof, of sex-typed behaviors in early infant
development. The purpose was to identify if, and when, infants began to exhibit those
characteristics specific to their sex. This opportunity allowed for a fleeting look into the complex
social structures, varying group dynamics, and intriguing patterns of infant social, and individual,
development.
By using observational data collected in the field, we investigated intragroup infant grooming
patterns, non-maternal infant affiliation, infant received food aggression (active and passive),
and infant initiated adult member displacements in one group of Lemur catta, one group of
Eulemur Flavifrons, and two groups of Propithecus coquereli.
Our research ultimately showed no significant difference in the studied behaviors between sexes.
This strongly implies that the studied species do not develop sex-typed behavior before
adolescence.
Student Author(s): Rachel Slack, Junior, Biology Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Dane Fisher, Pfeiffer University
Mark McCallum Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Plant Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 2
Colorful Coleus for Horticultural Therapy
Horticultural therapy (HT) is a time proven practice that originated back in the 19 th century in
the Philadelphia clinic of Dr. Benjamin Rush. Having being described as the healing and
rehabilitation of humans through the use of plants, horticultural therapy can alleviate
depression, lessen anxiety, improve self-esteem, improve motor skills and enhance problemsolving skills. The American Horticultural Therapy Association has defined HT as the
“engagement of a person in gardening and plant-based activities, facilitated by a trained
therapist, to achieve specific therapeutic treatment goals.” Our hypothesis is that Coleus
blumei can be used as an effective species in horticultural therapy. To date we have set up a
growing system in the greenhouse and set up a pilot study with the clients at The Homeplace.
Student Author(s): Jamison Slate, Senior, Chemistry Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Nepali Rajapakse, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Chemistry - General, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 19
Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications of Chemiluminescent Esters
Chemiluminescent reactions provide an effective means of demonstrating important chemical
concepts, and thus a systematic experiment was developed to isolate the best reagents for
producing intense chemiluminescent reactions. Chemiluminescent esters were synthesized by
reacting oxalyl chloride, adipoyl chloride, and phthaloyl chloride with 2,4,6-tricholorphenol and
4-nitrophenol; the resulting esters were checked for chemiluminescent properties by combining
a hydrogen peroxide solution with a variety of strong and weak acceptors. The effects of
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temperature on chemiluminescence were also observed. Additionally, UV-Vis spectra of the
acceptor solutions were taken to compare the conjugation of the molecules. The color intensity
was photographically documented and the reaction rate was monitored. The emission rate was
subsequently quantified. Several acceptor solutions were determined acceptable in suboptimal
lighting conditions. Temperature had a profound effect on the intensity of the reaction where
heated solutions exhibited a more distinctive color, and cooled solutions emitted a less intense
color. By determining the optimum experimental parameters, these results could be used to
develop a reliable chemiluminescent experiment, suitable for an undergraduate educational
laboratory.
Student Author(s): Amelia Sludds, Senior, History University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Mentor(s): Candice Bredbenner, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: History, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 21
From Redemption to Prevention: The Shift in Rescue Focus from Prostitutes to Women at
Risk during the Progressive Era
Many 19th century Americans expressed a resigned social tolerance of prostitution as a
“necessary evil.” They reasoned that, although disagreeable to Victorian sensibilities, the brothel
provided a sexual outlet for men and spared wives from overly-amorous marital attentions. But,
pervasive moralistic and religious outlooks also painted women’s engagement in this activity as
a major flaw in their character. Lack of information on social conditions driving prostitution
meant that pre-Progressive reformers concentrated mainly on rescuing women heavily
entrenched in this occupation, but their efforts yielded little success. However, during the earlytwentieth century, Progressive era Americans came to regard prostitution as a social evil that
could be eradicated. Their focus on this issue led to the formation of urban vice committee
reports containing urban biographical information unavailable to earlier reformers. The rise of
social science research cultivated the view that prostitutes were victims of their socio-economic
environment, countering widespread Victorian views of prostitution as a personal failing. With
this information at hand, Progressive reformers sought to nip the issue at the bud by targeting
young women at risk of becoming prostitutes rather than women already engaged in the
practice.
Student Author(s): Aaron Smedley, Sophomore, Computer Technology and Information
Systems Guilford College
Mentor(s): Chafic Bousaba, Guilford College
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Oral Session 2, 10:45 - 11:00 AM, Room 4
User Authentication Using Face and Voice Recognition Configured with Raspberry Pi
Lately, there has been a significant increase in cyber attacks that has led to security breaches in
different sectors and in various companies. Passwords alone are not secure enough for user
authentication to grant access to an account, a system, or a network. Combining face recognition
and voice recognition with strong passwords can lead to stronger security and resilient systems.
Exploiting open source software on top of open source hardware have created a lot of
opportunities for different levels of users such as beginner, intermediate, and advanced,
depending on the complexity of the project. Using open source software and hardware has
allowed the implementation of creative projects while keeping the outcome flexible, portable,
and low cost. The major hardware components of this project are Raspberry Pi (B+ Model), a
flexible open source hardware that is highly customizable, a camera, a microphone, a mini USB
network card, and an SD card; A USB camera that has a built-in microphone could also be used.
The main software packages of this project are Raspbian operating system, OpenCV for face
recognition, and voice recognition software.Combining image and voice recognition with strong
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passwords would harden the security and the system’s defense since it will be difficult to
duplicate a person’s image and voice at the same time.
Student Author(s): William Smith, Senior, Statistics University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Mentor(s): Cuixian Chen, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Statistics, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number 67
Questionnaire Refinment in Neuropsychological Examinations
The 100 item Trauma Symptom Inventory (TSI) diagnoses and assesses the activity of
posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychological disorders. Over the past few years
the TSI has been administered to thousands of veterans and active marines stationed in Camp
Lejeune, a base in Jacksonville, North Carolina, who were referred by military neurologists. In
utilizing Item Response Theory (IRT) on these test results, multiple statistical analyses provided
insight into the underlying characteristics of the TSI: item difficulty, item discrimination, and
local dependency. The TSI is time consuming, therefore a shorter test with tailored assessments
is needed. From the IRT model, the selected subset of items will provide an equally as
informative test as the longer version, while still maximizing precision along all
segments. According to psychologists, “poor effort” constitutes up to 50% of the difference in
cognitive testing performance, which may stem from the length of the TSI.
Student Author(s): Jaclyn Smith, Senior, Biochemistry North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Jacob Hooker, Harvard University
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Oral Session 4, 3:15 - 3:30 PM, Room 8A
Positron Emission Tomography Radiotracer Development to Image Synapses in the Brain
The causes and method of pathogenesis of numerous neurological diseases like depressive
disorders and Alzheimer’s disease are currently not fully understood. However, recent studies
suggest that fluctuations in synaptic density may be important for the pathophysiology of these
diseases. Currently, the only techniques available to image synaptic density changes must be
done in vitro, ex vivo, or in lower-order organisms. Imaging synaptic density changes using
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) would provide an in vivo, noninvasive method to image
synaptic density changes in humans. In order to image synapses, a nerve-terminal synaptic
protein was targeted for binding. Potential target molecules were screened for binding affinity
sufficient for imaging applications using an assay designed to test binding of compounds to the
ATP-Grasp binding domain found on the target protein. Molecules with high binding affinity
were administered to rats intravenously. PET imaging data was used to determine blood brain
barrier penetration, pharmacokinetics, and binding specificity to determine possible imaging
applications.
Student Author(s): Linda Smith, Senior, Chemistry Fayetteville State University
Luisa Hernandez-Encarnacion, Senior, Biology, Fayetteville State University
Ilza Medina-Ortiz, Senior, Biology, Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Subir Nagdas, Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 14
Identification and Characterization of a Bovine Sperm Acrosomal Structural Protein and
Its Potential Role in the Regulation of Hydrolases' Release During the Acrosome Reaction
The mammalian sperm acrosome contains hydrolases, utilized in penetrating the egg
investments. Our understanding of the functions of protein constituents of the outer acrosomal
membrane-matrix complex (OMC) is limited. A highly purified OMC fraction is comprised of 54,
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50, 45, and 38-19kDa polypeptides. The objective of this study is to identify and to characterize
the 45kDa (OMC45) polypeptide and to elucidate its role during the acrosome reaction.
Proteomic analysis of OMC45 by MALDI-TOF-TOF yielded 8 peptides that matched the NCBI
database sequences of Tektin 3 (TEKT3). Immunoflorescence of cauda sperm exhibited staining
of the acrosomal segment with anti-OMC45 and anti-TEKT3. A portion of the OMC45 polypeptide
was solubilized by RIPA buffer extraction. The supernatant obtained after RIPA buffer extraction
was subjected to co-immunoprecipitation analysis. A complete recovery of OMC45 polypeptide
was observed in the anti-OMC45 immunoprecipitation pellet. An identical blot stained with antiTEKT3 antibody exhibited the presence of TEKT3 polypeptide in the anti-OMC45 pellet. OMC45
glycoprotein possesses ~4kDa N-linked and ~4kDa O-linked oligosaccharides. Deglycosylated
OMC45 revealed a significant reduction in both acrosin and N-acetylglucosaminidase (NAGA)
binding in comparison to acrosin and NAGA binding to a native OMC45 polypeptide. Our results
suggest that oligosaccharides play an important role in hydrolase binding.
Student Author(s): Mackenzie Smith, Senior, Cinematic Arts and Media Production East
Carolina University
David Clanet, Senior, Cinematic Arts and Media Production, East Carolina University
Jed Watson, Senior, Cinematic Arts and Media Production, East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Michael Dermody, East Carolina University
Presentation: Arts - Visual, Oral Session 1 , 9:45 - 10:00 AM, Room 8B
The Lost Colony Documentary
Within the semester’s coursework of Agency Production, the class identified a documentary
topic, conducted research, pre-production, filming, and post-production to create a thirty-minute
television documentary to be aired on regional PBS. One of the unique aspects of the production
was to leverage experts across multiple disciplines: archeologist, historians, research librarians,
theatrical costumers, and national park rangers. These relationships allow us to tap into
academic resources and created a collaborative environment between the humanities, fine arts,
and sciences. The class began by identifying the Lost Colony as the subject. Research then began
with the experts in early American history & culture; anthropology; and North Carolina history &
Native American History. From this research, we were able to create a narrative outline that fit
our television format. Once done, we conducted on-camera interviews with experts as well as
filmed recreation scenes, maps, and period illustrations. Finally, we assimilated all these assets
into our documentary and began editing the story for public viewing. To our knowledge no
undergraduate production class has attempted the execution of a television documentary within
the semester format with this level of production quality and brought together so many experts
across multiple disciplines that culminates in a story for the general public told through the eyes
of experts in both the arts and sciences. Upon completion of the documentary, a link will be
provided to the program.
Student Author(s): Chelsea Smith, Junior, Psychology Methodist University
Mariah Wright, Junior, Psychology, Methodist University
David Cleveringa, Sophomore, Psychology, Methodist University
Lindsay Stinson, Senior, Psychology, Methodist University
Lory Nieshe, Senior, Psychology, Methodist University
Mentor(s): Mark Kline, Methodist University
Presentation: Psychology, Oral Session 2, 11:15 - 11:30 AM, Room 3
Textsperimenting: A Norms-Based Intervention for Binge Drinking
College student drinking has been the source of much concern for faculty and administrators
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across the country (Wechsler, et.al., 1995; Weschsler, et.al., 1999). The purpose of the
textsperimenting program was a subtle norms-based intervention designed to reduce binge
drinking among college students (Haines, et.al., 1996). Subjects were 195 freshman students
from Methodist University. Subjects’ drinking (quantity and frequency) were recorded during
the intervention session and at 2 week follow-up. During the intervention, subjects’ actual
drinking patterns were contrasted with their perceptions of peer drinking norms using a live
bar-graph, providing them with real-time personalized feedback. Students who attended the
textsperimenting program demonstrated a significant reduction in their drinking quantity at 2
week follow-up compared to those who did not attend (0.75 days/week for those who attended
and 1.05 days/week for those who didn’t). Importantly, the highest amount consumed was lower
for those who attended (2 drinks for those who did attend, 3 for those who didn’t). These results
indicate that the textsperimenting norms-based intervention was effective at reducing both how
much and how often students at Methodist University drank alcohol.
Student Author(s): Cody Spencer, Senior, International Business East Carolina University
Mentor(s): James Smith, East Carolina University
Presentation: Philosophy & Religious Studies, Oral Session 3, 2:00 - 2:15 PM, Room 3
The Philosophy of Happiness: A State of Being
The purpose of this thesis project is to develop a concept of happiness so that a better
understanding may be established. It is a secondary goal that the depressed can utilize this
concept and incorporate it into their lives so that they may improve their mental
health. Depression is a mental condition of dejection and can limit one’s energy and motivation
to engage in life. With the aforementioned in consideration, it will be of further use for the
research to provide a foundation for such a means of obtaining a state of well-being and
contentment. Findings will be ascertained through the examination of how respected
philosophers (such as Aristotle, Rogers, etc.) have viewed the concept of happiness and how
these teachings can encourage one to find happiness. Once there is a compilation of philosophical
foundations for happiness, efforts will be motivated towards identifying how the depressed can
utilize the information synthesized in this report to better understand how to obtain enduring
happiness in one’s life.
Student Author(s): Kalen Spinks, Sophomore, Mechanical/Aerospace North Carolina A&T State
University
Mentor(s): Subha Kumpaty, Milwaukee School of Engineering
Presentation: Engineering - Materials, Oral Session 1 , 10:00 - 10:15 AM, Room 5
Material Characterizon of Laser Beam Formed Ti-6Al-4V for Aircraft Applications
Ti-6Al-4V is a grade 5 titanium alloy commonly used in aerospace applications for its admirable
properties. Conventional forming of this metal alloy in aircraft parts greatly utilizes mechanical
forces, with some incorporation of hot forming. This serves as a traditional forming method that
can be further improved to reduce cost, time, and effort in aircraft manufacturing. Laser beam
forming, also known as laser bending or thermal bending, is a non-conventional manufacturing
process that suggests to be more accurate than dominantly mechanical forming processes. Laser
bending is accomplished by the introduction of thermal stress on samples of sheet metal. A laser
scans specific areas of the sample in linear successions inducing heat to deform and shape the
sample. Before this process is to become a manufacturing standard it must first be understood
what side effects are attributed to this process if any. In this study, the properties of laser beam
formed Ti-6Al-4V were tested such as hardness and microstructure with varying laser power.
The results of the hardness testing suggests that the laser beam forming process does change the
hardness of Ti-6Al-4V. Furthermore, study of the microstructure reinforces the hardness results
with some common trends. The conclusion of this study will help establish if laser beam forming
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is an acceptable manufacturing process in aircraft production.
Student Author(s): Sarah Springthorpe, Senior, Biology, Chemistry Salem College
Mentor(s): Jing Ye, Salem College
Presentation: Chemistry - General, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number 47
Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation in Arthropods After Dan River Coal Ash Spill
While the effects of coal ash on trace metal concentrations in water are known, its potential to
create trace metal bioaccumulation in arthropods is not. The release of approximately 39,000
tons of coal ash into the Dan River in Eden, North Carolina on February 2nd, 2014 allowed these
effects to be studied. Water, river sediment, and arthropod samples were collected along the Dan
River from June 4th-July 30th, 2014, with three sites located upstream and four sites located
downstream from the coal ash spill. Samples were analyzed for chromium and lead
concentrations using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Preliminary findings support
similar studies on metal concentrations following coal ash spills in the Dan River and other river
systems, with no significant differences between sites. Preliminary results also indicate that
there are no differences in metal concentrations in arthropods found upstream versus those
found downstream of the coal ash spill. Future work will examine metal concentrations found in
river sediments at the seven sites over the same nine week period, as well as continue to
examine metal concentrations in the arthropods.
Student Author(s): Jabari Stegall, Senior, Electrical Engineering North Carolina A&T State
University
Mentor(s): Fatemeh Afghah, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 30
Design and Implementation of an Energy Efficient Android Controlled Smart House
Energy Savings, increased safety, and convenience can be achieved through the use of smart
house technology. Smart House technology has been a key discussion due to the new interest in
“The Internet of Things” concept which is the network of physical objects accessed through the
Internet, as defined by technology analysts and visionaries. These objects contain embedded
technology to interact with internal states or the external environment. Also the “Internet of
Everything” concept which is bringing together people, process, data, and things to make
networked connections more relevant and valuable than ever before-turning information into
actions that create new capabilities, richer experiences, and unprecedented economic
opportunity for businesses, individuals, and countries. A smart home is an integration of
technology and services through a home network for better quality living. The smart home is
meant to provide unequivocal comfort and support to its occupant. The smart home also has the
capability to save the occupant money on energy savings by allowing them full control over their
HVAC, lighting, all of their domestic appliances, and also their home entertainment. The smart
house owner could also increase safety by having a smart security system that can monitor
various dangers, such as fires, break-ins, carbon monoxide, etc. The convenience of a smart
house would stem from being able to monitor all of those smart aspects via a central controller
i.e. Cellphone or compute.
Student Author(s): Michael Stemkovski, Junior, Biological Sciences (Ecology, Evolution,
Conservation Biology concentration) North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): HT Banks, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Oral Session 2, 11:15 - 11:30 AM, Room 6
Hierarchical modeling of Daphnia magna population dynamics
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Daphnia magna is a popular model organism in environmental toxicology studies. Most research
of the effects of pesticides and toxicants on the species is done at the individual level, without
experiments at the population level. This work attempts to bridge the gap between individual
and population level studies by building a hierarchical model of Daphnia grown in a microcosm
environment. The method used is a Leslie matrix model with a density dependent mortality
effect as well as a time-delayed fecundity effect. The model is informed by data collected on a
cohort of Daphnia raised individually, and validated using population data gathered over the
course of 120 days. The model is successful in predicting the initial spike in juvenile population,
gradual growth of the adult population, and subsequent reduction in fecundity. Future work
with this approach includes predicting the effects of environmental toxicants, predation, climate
change, and food availability on natural populations.
Student Author(s): Erin Stiers, Sophomore, Biology Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Mark McCallum, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 29
Bacteriophage Isolation for A. tumefaciens and P. larvae
Viruses that kill bacteria, or bacteriophage are a greatly overlooked natural asset for fighting off
bacteria. For every bacterium known on the planet, there are multitudes of phage that have the
ability to seek out and destroy those bacteria. [2] The bacteria Agrobacterium tumefaciens is a
bacterium that causes Crown Gall Disease in plants. Additionally, A. tumefaciens is used
extensively as a tool in the genetic modification of many different plant species. Through
enrichment techniques, a putative bacteriophage was discovered from the rhizosphere that
successfully killed A. tumefaciens. Future research will use enrichment methods for isolating
bacteriophage that kills Paenibacillus larvae, a bacterial pathogen of honeybees associated with
extensive economic losses in the honey production industry and agricultural yields.
Student Author(s): Erin Stiers, Sophomore, Biology Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Don Poe, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 10
Relationship Churning in Young Adult Relationships
The purpose of this research is to identify “churners” in relationships and the factors which
make someone more likely to be involved in relationship churning. Churning is marked by a
reconciliation with a partner and occurs when daters have either broken up with their current
partner or daters who have broken up with a past partner more than once. In this study (n=62),
young adults were surveyed regarding their present or most recent romantic relationship in
attempts to expand emerging research on reconciliations in non-marital relationships. Individual
markers for demographic were evaluated to examine likelihood of churning including race, age,
family structure, and parental education level as a means to roughly determine socioeconomic
status. Additionally, the link between churning and conflict in young adult relationships is
examined.
Student Author(s): Leah Stilwell, Senior, Chemistry University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Mentor(s): Stephen Skrabal, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Chemistry - Analytical, Oral Session 3, 2:00 - 2:15 PM, Room 8A
Trace Metals in the Belize River Sediment
The Belize River flows for 290 km through central Belize, starting near the eastern border with
Guatemala and ending in the Caribbean Sea. The river drains a watershed that contains about
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half of the nation’s population. The watershed is increasingly impacted by land use changes
including deforestation and development, yet there has been an absence of studies examining
the impacts of these land use changes on the Belize River. This study provides baseline data on
trace metal concentrations in river sediments to evaluate the impacts of land use change around
the river. Trace metals including copper, lead, nickel, chromium, manganese, zinc, and mercury,
along with major elements including iron, aluminum, and calcium, and organic carbon were
analyzed in the Belize River sediment. Variations in the abundance of major elements mainly
reflected inputs from carbonate and non-carbonate bedrock and soils. Trace metals showed no
evidence of significant point sources, suggesting that inputs are mainly diffuse, or related to
runoff of eroded sediments. Trace metals that were consistently enriched include chromium and
zinc. The source of these enrichments may be determined with further investigation.
Student Author(s): Justine Stocks, Senior, Environmental Science Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Chris Thaxton, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Atmospheric Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number
65
Terrestrial and marine sourcing of methyl iodide in the rural southeast
Methyl iodide (CH3I) is the most abundant organo-iodine compound in the atmosphere and is
very influential in aerosol formation and depletion of tropospheric ozone. It is used in the
production of pesticides and pharmaceuticals and is also produced biogenically by marine algae
and terrestrial vegetation and soils. Short and long-term CH3I exposure via inhalation can be
harmful to humans. In order to investigate the sources and distributions of CH3I in the rural
southeastern U.S, a two week long campaign was conducted at the Appalachian Atmospheric
Interdisciplinary Research (AppalAIR) site in Boone, NC from 15 June, 2013 until 2 July, 2013.
Whole air samples were collected hourly and analyzed for a comprehensive suite of volatile
organic compounds (VOCs), including methyl iodide. In this paper, comparisons will be made on
relative levels of CH3I to other terrestrial regions in the U.S. and anthropogenic and biogenic
tracers will be used to elucidate the summertime sources of CH3I observed in the rural
southeast.
Student Author(s): Laura Strawbridge, Junior, Microbiology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Alice Lee, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 43
Phenotypic and Genotypic Identification of Microbes Isolated from Soil That Exhibit
Resistance to Relatives of Common Drug-Resistant Pathogens
New antibiotic resistant microbes are emerging faster than new antibiotic drugs are being
developed. Given the diversity of undiscovered microbes in soil, some soil microbes may have
means, such as the production of antibiotics, to compete against different species for nutrients,
space, and survival. In an effort to identify some antibiotic producing microbes, a sample of soil
was collected from outside of the soil science building at NCSU and analyzed for its potential to
contain novel antibiotic producing bacteria. The hypothesis was that some microbes could be
identified that could show resistance to common relatives of dangerous, frequently drugresistant microbes. Once these candidate microbes were cultivated and isolated, screening for
antibiotic production was initiated. Genotypic identification via 16S rRNA gene analysis was
performed, and phenotypic characterization was done to further analyze its metabolic
capabilities. Three of the isolates (tentatively identified as Streptomyces vinaceus, Pseudomonas
mosselii, and possibly Serratia marcescens) exhibited clear zones of inhibition, indicating
resistance to the safe relatives. These microbes will be added to an online database run by Small
World Initiatives and will be used to attempt to identify new sources of antibiotics that could
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help to combat the current antibiotic resistance microbes emerging today.
Student Author(s): Kyndreshia Stroman, Senior, Mathematics Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Mychal Smith, Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Mathematics, Oral Session 1 , 9:45 - 10:00 AM, Room 8A
Insights into New Optical Functionalities of a
This research training project aims at understanding the optics related to a solar energy
harvesting device, namely a Solar Oven for home cooking. The goal is to configure a contraption
to suit quality and safe cooking at no cost. A box oven that has a concave mirror inside and
reflector flaps (secondary mirrors) was designed to (i) focus in a uniform fashion a sufficient
amount of sunlight onto the cooking dish, and (ii) to permit the concentrated light to impinge all
sides of the cooking dish. The orientation of the secondary mirrors allow control of the
generated heat and led to efficient and uniform collection of the rays and directing them onto the
cooking zone. Optics model has been derived and ray tracing technique has been used for
tracking the focusing process of sunrays onto the cooking zone. Direct and reflected light rays
were analyzed to find the amount of irradiation absorbed by the cooking device throughout the
day and at a given time during the day. The results include the optimization of mirror angles for
maximum light harvesting as well as the expected efficiency for various regions state- and
worldwide.
Student Author(s): Libni Subdias, Junior, Chemistry & Biology University of North Carolina Pembroke
Walter Patterson, Sophomore, Biotechnology, University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Julia Sampson, Freshman, Biotechnology, University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Ian Fennell, Freshman, Biology, University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Stephanie Lawson, Senior, Nursing, University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Mentor(s): Len Holmes, University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 40
The Effect of Microgravity on Pseudomonas fluorescence growth and Pyoverdine
Fluorescence
This study aims to examine the effects of microgravity on the bacterium Pseudomonas
fluorescence. Byutilizing a clinostat, micro gravitational force was simulated on a culture of P.
fluorescence. Clinostat rotational speed was varied to separate cultures of P. fluorescence. The
production of a fluorescent pigment pyoverdine was noted, as indicated by fluorescence
measurements. The length of the bacterial growth lag phase was significantly shortened by
approximately 20 hours under micro gravitational condition. There was a decrease in the overall
final optical density measurement of suspended bacteria. These results suggest that the
microgravity has an impact on the pathway responsible for pyoverdine production. Though this
study did not investigate the chemical nature of this interaction, it does provide an example of
change in an organism’s chemical response to the physical stimulus of gravity.
Student Author(s): Aaron Sugar, Senior, Environmental Technology and Management North
Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Elizabeth Nichols, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Earth Science, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 62
Sunny Honey: Partnering Pollination and Preservation with Photovoltaics
The goal of our research is to investigate the possibility of using clover (trifolium) as a cover crop
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in order to maintain the 18’’ limit on growth-height in solar photovoltaic farms. In addition, the
clover crop will foster pollinator habitat and support bee colonies. We are also utilizing GIS
technologies to map, track, and evaluate the number of solar farms/areas in North Carolina in
order to calculate the potential addition of pollinator conservation habitat. By merging the use of
clover in place of stereotypical ground-cover and negating the need to mow the area, we can
create a viable habitat for pollinators and help lower greenhouse gasses.
Current solar farms will often utilize native grasses, shrubs, or bare-ground for ground-cover
under their installations. The growth of these shrubs must be kept under 18’’ or the owner of the
solar farm runs the risk of interference on the panels from the shrubs. Due to the height
limitation, owners often have to spend time and money mowing and cutting the area to limit the
growth. Not only is this a nuisance, but it also leads to the production of greenhouse gasses via
the need to mow. Clover maintains a height under 18’’ and serves as a habitat for pollinating
species like the bumblebee (Bombus terrestris).
Student Author(s): Ashley Synger, Senior, Psychology University of North Carolina Wilmington
Mentor(s): Kate Nooner, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 11
Pilot Study of Trauma Symptoms, Substance Use, and Brain Function in College Students
We conducted a pilot study investigating the relationship of trauma symptoms and substance
use to brain function using electroencephalography (EEG). Our pilot sample consisted of 15
college students ages 18-20. Event related potentials (ERPs) for three EEG regions (frontal,
cortical, and cortico-frontal) were hypothesized to relate to trauma symptoms and substance
use. We assessed this using the Go/No-Go cognitive task that measures attention and response
inhibition during EEG. Data were processed using the EEGLab toolbox and ERPLab plugin within
MatLab to obtain peak amplitudes of the averaged ERPs of the three EEG regions. We found
moderate to large bivariate correlations for recreational drug use and the three EEG regions (r’s
= .57-.61, p’s= .016-.026); larger ERP peak amplitudes were associated with higher self-report of
recreational drug use. Alcohol use and the brain regions were not significantly correlated (p=.4).
We also found negative correlations that approached significance for trauma symptoms and the
three EEG regions (r’s= -.43-.48, p’s=.07-.09); smaller ERP peak amplitudes were associated with
higher self-reported trauma symptoms. These findings suggest that there may be different
neural processes for trauma symptoms and substance use, even though they often co-occur.
Student Author(s): Amanda Szymanski, Senior, Psychology High Point University
Mentor(s): Kimberly Wear, High Point University
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 14
Mind-Wandering, Topic Interest, Working Memory, and Reading Comprehension
Individual differences in working memory capacity, mind-wandering, and topic interest may
affect reading comprehension. Mind-wandering occurs most when reading something
considered boring, which then reduces performance on memory and comprehension tasks.
Studies show relationships between these concepts (Feng, D'Mello, & Graesser, 2013; McVay &
Kane, 2012a and 2012b; Unsworth & McMillan, 2013). Andrade (2010) proposed doodling for
reducing mind-wandering and as a way to boost memory. Results showed that doodling
increased memory for details in a mock telephone message. Otherwise, little research has been
conducted on doodling and its relation to mind-wandering and recall. The current study
investigated whether doodling has a significant impact on reducing mind-wandering for
interesting or not interesting materials. Working memory and reading spans were also assessed.
Participants listened to recordings of fictional stories, psychology articles, or news articles. While
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listening, participants received thought probes assessing the content of their thoughts. Groups
were separated into doodling and non-doodling conditions, with doodlers filling in shapes
provided on the thought-probe survey sheet while listening to the recordings. Following each
recording, participants completed a multiple choice test for the material, as well as the operation
and reading span tasks (Foster, Shipstead, Harrison, Hicks, Redick, & Engle, 2014; Unsworth,
Heitz, Schrock, & Engle, 2005). Doodling is expected to reduce mind-wandering for the "boring"
material, thereby increasing reading comprehension. Low-span individuals are expected to
demonstrate more distractibility from mind-wandering and therefore should benefit more from
the doodling.
Student Author(s): Adeem Tahira, Senior, Nutrition and Dietetics East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Anthony Kennedy, East Carolina University
Presentation: Chemistry - Materials, Oral Session 3, 2:30 - 2:45 PM, Room 8A
Conservation of Archaeological Wood
In the conservation field there are many different thoughts on the best way to conserve
waterlogged archeological wood. The current method uses polyethylene glycol (PEG), a
hydrophilic organic compound, to replace water within the wood. PEG is highly effective in the
short term although low molecular weight PEG is hygroscopic and reabsorption of water can
lead to problems later on, such as the formation of acid within the wood and break down of PEG
itself. These problems are have proved especially difficult to deal with in the Vasa, a Swedish
Viking ship, which is conserved with PEG. As a result conservators have been examining many
different treatments as alternatives to PEG. Our study evaluates the effectiveness of nonreducing sugars as a treatment for chemically degraded waterlogged wood, by chemically
degrading waterlogged wood samples and then treating them in varying concentrations of sugar
solutions. Preliminary data collected indicates that this method is effective in conserving
degraded samples. Additionally mechanical tests show overall greater strength in treated wood
samples in terms of increased elasticity and stress load capability.
Student Author(s): Maliha Talib, Senior, Biochemistry North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Alice Lee, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 28
Selective isolation and culture of Lactobacilli bacteria from fermented foods with the
potential for bacteriocin production
The Centers for Disease and Control estimates approximately 2 million people acquire bacterial
infections that are resistant to one or more antibiotics, and at least 23,000 die as a result of these
infections. The improper use of antibiotics is the most important factor leading to antibiotic
resistance. Concurrently, there has been a rapid decline in the discovery and development of
new classes of antibiotics in the last 40 years (2). As a result, there is a critical need for the
discovery and development of new antimicrobials. One group of antimicrobial compounds being
studied are bacteriocins, which are small, peptide products from bacteria. Bacteriocins exhibit
valuable properties as an antimicrobial: they may have a broad or narrow spectrum of activity,
exhibit low toxicity, high potency, activity against antibiotic-resistant strains, and amenable to
gene-based peptide engineering. Many bacteriocins are produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB)
and hold great promise as viable alternatives to antibiotics. The aim of this study is to isolate
and identify bacteriocin producing LAB from fermented dairy products. Variations of the
lactobacilli selective medium, deMan, Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) were used to isolate
Lactobacillus species in combination with vancomycin, L-cysteine hydrochloride, and
bromophenol blue. Next steps will be to determine if these LAB isolates produce antimicrobials
and identify the bacteriocins. Culture supernatant fluids of these isolates will be tested for
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antimicrobial activity against selected indicator strains. The potential identification of a novel
bacteriocin from isolated LAB strains would serve as a promising candidate for further
characterization, with potential applications in the field of medicine and could contribute to the
control of the emergence of antibiotic resistance.
Student Author(s): Jared Taylor, Freshman, Computer Science North Carolina Central
University
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Oral Session 1 , 10:15 - 10:30 AM, Room 4
Geographic Modeling of Disease Transmission
The SIR (Susceptible Infected Recovered) model is an established structure for predicting the
transmission of infectious disease within a population (Kermack & McKendrick 1927). Standard
SIR models, however, do not consider spatial elements such as population density and
connectivity due to modern modes of transportation. The model in this research, programmed in
NetLogo, applies standard SIR transmission rules to individual spatial locations (“patches”) and
then incorporates spatial relationships between patches that are spatially adjacent as well as
connected through an established travel network. The model is applied using population density
values obtained from U.S. Census data (2010) and an airport network featuring the 30 largest
airports in the United States. Parameters representing spatial spread were incorporated and
investigated in addition to traditional SIR rate parameters, and visualization of disease
progression is provided in both time and space. The model clearly demonstrates the effect of
modern transportation networks on the rate of disease diffusion and establishes a structure for
further study of modern epidemics.
Student Author(s): William Therriault, Freshman, Computer Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Yaroslava Yingling, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Materials, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 68
Comparing the effects of Gold Nanoparticles on DNA and RNA
The unique properties of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) paired with their facile synthesis allow for
their use as sensors ,catalysts, or in nanoelectronic systems. Gold nanoparticles can be paired
with deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) or ribonucleic acid(RNA). Both DNA and RNA encode genetic
information through base pairing and consist of nucleobases connected by a negatively charged
sugar-phosphate backbone However, DNA contains one less hydroxyl group in the sugar ring. In
RNA, the base thymine is also replaced by uracil. Using the AMBER 12 simulation package for
molecular dynamics, we study the interactions of single stranded DNA and RNA with AuNPs of
differing charges. Nanoparticles had a 1.5 nm core diameter with 60 alkyl ligands with primaryammonium cation (R-NH3±) end groups. The higher charged AuNPs showed greater changes in
the shape of the ssDNA than in the RNA strands. However, there was little change in the major
intramolecular interactions in either strand such as hydrogen bonding or Pi-Pi stacking. The
ssDNA had a higher degree of immobilization with the higher charged groups. The cationic end
groups of the nanoparticles primarily interacted with the negatively charged nucleic
backbones. Future work will include analysis of +48 and +60 nanoparticles paired with both
DNA and RNA.
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Student Author(s): Jake Thomas, Freshman, Biology East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Toxicology, Oral Session 3, 1:45 - 2:00 PM, Room 5
Exposure to Oil-Dispersant Mixture Induces Spermatogenetic Defects in Caenorhabditis
Elegans
In response to the Deepwater Horizon Oil spill, chemical dispersants have been used in order to
speed up the process of natural oil degradation and thus reduce environmental damages.
However, impacts of the oil-dispersant (oil-dis) mixture on ecological and human helath remains
unclear. Previous studies showed that the oil-dis has toxic effects on reproduction. In this study
we use hermaphroditic strains of Caenorhabditis Elegans in order to test the status of
spermatogenesis and related gene expressions in response to exposure to different dilutions of
oil-dis. The germline phenotype assays indicated that oil-dis mixtures cause the abnormal
spermatogenesis which may affect reproduction ability in C. elegans. Exposure to the oil-dis
miexture resulted in immature diploid sperm cells. Gene expression analysis showed that 24 out
of 25 genes showed statistically significant dysregulation, where spe-10, spe-17, spe-8, swm-1,
tra-1, fem-3, gld-3, and spr-5 were all dysregulated by greater than two-fold.
Student Author(s): Linda Thomas, Senior, Social Work Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Tamara Woods , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Social Work, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 29
The Quality of Life of Individuals in Adult Daycare Programs vs. Community-Dwelling
Adults
The elderly population (65+) in America is expected to rapidly increase over the next years from
33.2 million up to 80 million people within the next century. Traditionally, the care of older
adults has historically been provided either, the individuals themselves or by the family or
community. In 21st century America there are a number of other options available to
supplement or substitute for this care when necessary. Therefore, helping the elderly deal with
physical or mental disabilities is a growing necessity. During this study, the quality of life of
individuals in an adult daycare setting versus community-dwelling adults was examined. A
sample of 34 participants between ages of 18-101, both male and female were utilized to test our
hypothesis that a significant difference existed. Our assessment instrument was the Ferrans &
Powers Quality of Life Index. The data was analyzed using the Mann Whitney U Test and the
Independent T-test. The results showed a significant increase in the happiness of participants
who attended adult day care. This research will hopefully bring awareness to the available
services, the social and physical functioning of this population, and ultimately reduce caregiver
burden.
Student Author(s): Steven Thornton, Junior, Civil Engineering North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Rudolf Seracino, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Civil, Construction & Environmental, Oral Session 4, 3:45 - 4:00 PM,
Room 8A
Improving North Carolina's Bridges: Methods of Corrosion Detection and Capacity
Restoration
The American Society of Civil Engineers has estimated that twenty percent of bridges in North
Carolina are structurally deficient, making the condition of bridges a serious concern for
engineers and policy makers in the state. The aim of this project is to identify techniques that can
be used to: quantitatively assess the extent of corrosion in in-service reinforced concrete bridge
beams; and present methods of repairing deteriorated beams. This project utilizes two methods
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of assessment: resistivity testing and half-cell potential testing. It is believed that data obtained
from these test methods can be used to correlate the electrical properties of the steel-concrete
system with the same system's residual strength. Mechanically fastened fiber-reinforcing
polymer systems are proposed as a means of repair. The findings of this research indicate that
we have the means to repair many of our damaged bridges without replacing them, and that we
have the technology necessary to identify when this is appropriate. It appears that this
information should be of great use for state bridge engineers and policy makers in North
Carolina.
Student Author(s): Christina Thrower, Senior, Psychology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Grace Srigley, North Carolina State University
Mary Wyer North Carolina State University
Presentation: Psychology, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 13
Assessing Self-Efficacy Among Police Officers Handling Domestic Violence Calls:
Improving Outcomes for Police and Victims Through Specialized Training
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of specialized domestic violence (DV) training
on police officers’ professional efficacy. The implications of this study are particularly pertinent
because many police officers, despite some minimal, requisite DV training, feel frustrated by high
rates of unresolved, reoccurring DV cases, and victims remain in dangerous and oppressive
situations. This study will compare police officers that have received additional specialized DV
training with police officers that have not received additional specialized DV training. It is
hypothesized that specialized DV training leads to increases in police officers’ sense of
professional efficacy. In similar applications of increased training, both police officers and DV
victims have reported more positive outcomes, which demonstrates the overarching importance
of this study.
Student Author(s): Jessica Tiettmeyer, Senior, Chemistry University of North Carolina Wilmington
Mentor(s): Nathaniel Grove, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Chemistry - General, Oral Session 3, 1:45 - 2:00 PM, Room 8A
Researching Chemistry Students’ Perceptions of the Validity of Summative Assessments
Tests are commonly used in many chemistry courses as a means of assessing the knowledge that
students have accumulated. In many introductory courses, examinations rely heavily on the use
of multiple choice questions, which present information in a specific format and require students
to process that information in a specific way. In other courses, however, alternative question
types such as true/false, short answer, fill-in-the-blank, or essays are utilized. Because of these
differences, students may process the information presented differently, and there is the
potential for one format to be better than another. This will present our preliminary findings
surrounding students' perspectives as to whether tests are a valid way of determining
knowledge, how they believe the testing process can be improved, and their ultimate role in the
learning process.
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Student Author(s): Garima Tomar, Senior, HS Student NC School of Science and Mathematics
Mentor(s): Delta Ghoshal, Duke University
Presentation: Engineering - Biomedical, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 54
Developing an ultrasensitive response in CRISPR/dCas9 circuitry using Molecular
Titration
Biological tools that are based on the CRISPR/Cas9 system could potentially enable synthetic
biologists to create gene circuits of far greater complexity than what was previously possible.
However, the function or robustness of many circuits relies on ultrasensitive, switch-like
responses from the transcription factors involved. Currently, CRISPR-based tools have
distinctively analog, non-Boolean responses, making them unsuitable for use in functions that
require a steep response curve. Tools that introduce Boolean-like ultra-sensitivity into the
CRISPR system would increase its versatility for applications in complex gene circuits. We are
implementing two possible approaches for demonstrating ultra-sensitivity in CRISPR:
cooperative repression and molecular titration. Our molecular titration approach is further split
into targeting anti-tracrRNA and targeting decoy binding sites. We created a successful protocol
for creating decoy binding sites and have shown that as the concentration of decoy binding sites
rises, so does the GFP level. Our anti-tracrRNA and cooperative repression approaches are both
supported by modeling, and we have developed protocols for continuing with both of these
aspects. The use of these three methods aims to scale up CRISPR systems and create binary
responses.
Student Author(s): Kionda Townsend, Junior, Civil Engineering North Carolina A&T State
University
Mentor(s): Tonya Smith-Jackson, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Engineering - Industrial & Systems, Oral Session 1 , 9:30 - 9:45 AM, Room 7A
Open Plan Office Layout: Cubicle vs Open Bay
The “Controlled Adaptive and Flexible Experimental Office of the Future in an Ecologically Valid
Environment”, aka, CAFÉ of EVE, seeks to draw together a natural office environment and a
controlled laboratory setting to produce distinct scaled world replicate of an open plan office
environment. The intention of the project is to take the advantage of a laboratory and field study
by having some control over the setting, but enough realism to produce results similar to what
might be found in an actual office. By doing so the laboratory set-up must be as realistic and
close as possible to the type of office space that will be mimicked; In this case it is a cubicle and
open office layout. The purpose of this study is to understand how facility layouts influence
office behavior and perceptions of stress and mental workload. Two facility layouts will be used
– open bay and cubicle. Along with the two facility layouts, multiple factors will be manipulated
to explore behavior and performance. These factors include interference types, distractor noises,
and task types. The goal is to identify the conditions and layouts that will allow the most efficient
performance of participants. Our first ten participants have been implemented in the cubicle
layout and our next 10 will be implemented in an open bay layout. We look to observe whether
there are differences in mental workload between the two layouts while participants perfom the
same tasks in both environments.
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Student Author(s): Skye Tracey, Freshman, Climate Change Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Lori Tyler, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Oral Session 2, 10:45 - 11:00 AM, Room 6
The Effect of Rising Spring Temperature on Ruby-Throated Hummingbird Migration and
Nectar Source Phenology
Changing phenology of plants and animals is an indicator of climate change. Mid-latitude
warming is a well-documented phenomenon, especially in spring months. Plant phenology is
impacted by factors such as availability of light, water, and temperature. If spring temperatures
are warming over time, plant phenology advances. I studied two species of cloned plants in
Wisconsin, Lonicera tatarica and Syringa chinensis, to determine the effects of spring warming
and demonstrate the advance of spring over time. These plants flower around the same time as
various
trees,
shrubs,
and
vines
that
provide
nectar
for
ruby-throated
hummingbirds. Hummingbirds are also important pollinators for some plant species. Since the
1960s, average spring temperatures have risen in Wisconsin. I found a significant correlation
between average spring temperature and average first bloom dates of the two plants. There was
also a significant correlation between spring temperatures and average first sightings of rubythroated hummingbirds from 1997 until 2013. The data show that in the last 15 years, the period
between first hummingbird sighting and first bloom date has diminished. The study
demonstrates that if trends continue, hummingbirds may miss the ideal window of the blooming
period of certain plants.
Student Author(s): Ian Tsun, Junior, Chemistry University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Mentor(s): Brian Strahl, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster
Number 42
Characterization of Interactions between Human Bromodomains and Polyacetylated
Histone Tails
Nucleosomes are the basic organizational structure of eukaryotic DNA, and histones are the core
components of these units. Histone post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as acetylation
and methylation, can recruit proteins that facilitate organizing DNA into nucleosomes and
regulate downstream chromatin activities, such as DNA repair, replication, and gene expression.
Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) regulate histone
acetylation, a modification associated with gene activation. Bromodomain (BRD)-containing
proteins bind histone acetylation and regulate chromatin activities. Using a peptide microarray
platform, a screen of human BRDs revealed that most BRDs preferentially bind polyacetylated
histone tails in vitro. The goal of this project was to validate these findings using in-solution
peptide pulldown assays and fluorescence polarization studies. The results of these experiments
confirm that some BRDs preferentially bind histone polyacetylated peptides. HDAC inhibitors,
which increase histone polyacetylation, are currently being investigated for their anti-cancer
activities. Based on our findings, we hypothesize that HDAC inhibitors may act by redistributing
BRDs across the genome. Recruitment of BRD proteins to polyacetylated regions in cells could
enhance transcriptional activity of nearby genes. Understanding the mechanisms of HDAC
inhibitors and BRD-containing proteins therefore has the potential to provide profound insight
into this clinical treatment strategy for cancer.
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Student Author(s): Jonathan Tufts, Senior, Biological Sciences North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Balaji Narasimhan, Iowa State University
Presentation: Engineering - Chemical & Biomolecular, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 61
Nanoparticle Transport Kinetics to Draining Lymph Nodes
Polyanhydride nanoparticles are being studied as a promising delivery method for subunit
vaccines. While single intranasal administrations of nanovaccines have been shown to be
protective, the mechanism of the enhanced immune response is not fully elucidated. Techniques
are needed to test the enhancement of these nanovaccines by measuring both their immune
reactivity and movement from the site of injection to the lymph node. For this purpose 24
C57BL/6 mice were injected with 50 µL PBS subcutaneous injections in their rear foot pads: PBS
alone, 500 µg of 24 nm PS particles, 500 µg of 300 nm PS particles, or 100 µg of Ovalbumin
(ova). The mice were evaluated at 2 hours, 24 hours, and 7 days post-administration, with 8
mice sacrificed per time point. The mice were fluorescently imaged, euthanized, and their lymph
nodes were extracted and analyzed with flow cytometry. This experiment showed that our
tagging and tracking methods were effective. With the live animal imager we were able to image
the disappearance of nanoparticles from the footpads. We observed the full kinetics of the
soluble ova at the draining lymph node as analyzed by flow cytometry. Differences in the
dynamics of the ova-positive lymph node cellular populations were observed using flow
cytometry. This proof-of concept study can be expanded to further understand the dynamics of
nanoparticle transport from the administration site to the draining lymph nodes as a function of
particle chemistry and size.
Student Author(s): Paul Tyrlik, Junior, Chemistry North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Gufeng Wang, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Analytical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 28
3-D Tracking of Nanoparticles Near Modified Surfaces
The properties of surfaces have been a topic of research for a long time. Due to technical
limitations, it is not completely clear how macromolecules and nanoparticles interact with
functionalized surfaces. We developed a three dimensional super localization technique that
allows us to track the particles interaction with different surfaces. We found that a significant
number of nanoparticles being trapped close to differently functionalized surfaces in the long
range (> particle size). This discloses a potentially new type of interaction between the particles
and the surface.
Student Author(s): Dianne Uwayo, Senior, Sociology Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Catherine Harnois , Wake Forest University
Presentation: Sociology , Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 33
Perceptions of the Causes of Intimate Partner Violence in Kisumu, Kenya
Intimate Partner Violence continues to be a global epidemic that physically, emotionally, sexually
and economically affects women and girls worldwide. This study analyzes perceptions of
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in Kisumu, Kenya with a focus on the prevalence of IPV in the
region and beliefs about its causes. Data was derived from a survey of 102 Kisumu residents, two
focus group discussions (one with female residents and the other with male residents) and three
semi-structured interviews with social service providers. The results suggest that the majority of
women in Kisumu experience Intimate Partner Violence. Respondents perceive that IPV stems
from poverty and unemployment, partner mistrust and beliefs of infidelity. The analyses
demonstrate that IPV is reinforced by aspects of cultural and traditional beliefs, some of which
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are deeply gendered. In addition, while services in the city to help IPV victims are present, many
women are unaware that they exist. In general, the findings highlight the need for greater
education on issues pertaining to IPV, cultural changes to challenge victim-blaming ideology, and
policy changes to ensure that all forms of IPV are recognized in the Kenyan legal system.
Student Author(s): Arieana Van Allen, Senior, Chemistry University of North Carolina Pembroke
Mentor(s): Rachel Smith , University of North Carolina - Pembroke
Presentation: Chemistry - General, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number 48
Microwave Biodiesel Production from Waste Vegetable Oil
Optimal reaction conditions for the microwave transesterifiation of used oil with methanol in
the presence of the phase-transfer catalyst choline hydroxide to generate fatty acid methyl
esters, also known as biodiesel, were developed. Pre-treatment of the waste oil was
accomplished by heating with sodium sulfate which removed the free fatty acids present in the
oil prior to the reaction.
Chemical reactions conducted under microwave heating can be energy efficient since reaction
times are decreased and higher percent yields are typically obtained. Reaction time,
temperature, ratio of methanol to oil and amount of catalyst used were varied in order to
generate nearly complete conversion.
Analysis of the reaction products was done by gas chromatography with a flame ionization
detector, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and infrared spectrometry. Although excess
methanol seems to be required for complete conversion, microwave reactions showed >99%
conversion in as little as 5 minutes at 50ºC compared to 45 minutes to 1 hour for complete
reaction when traditional heating is used. After pre-treatment, the used oil gave comparable %
conversions by gc and mass % yield to those reactions conducted using virgin oil.
Student Author(s): Katherine Vanderburg, Senior, Pre-Medical Studies Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Luke Dollar, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 11
Carb-overloaded Ducks Don't Fly: Park Interpretational Panels and Feeders May Help
Prevent "Angel Wing Syndrome."
Angel Wing Syndrome is a debilitating disease impacting flight ability in waterfowl, known to
be linked to an improper diet containing high amounts of carbohydrates and protein. Data were
gathered to investigate a connection between presence or absence of feeders with nutritionally
balanced pellets versus citizen provisioning of bread and other high-carb "goodwill feeds," also
noting the percentage of fowl with the syndrome. The park with feeders also used
interpretational panels to caution against bread provisions. It was found that the park that
supplied feeders for the public to use versus bread from home and implemented educational
methods regarding water fowl diet hosted a lower number of ducks with Angel Wing Syndrome.
Student Author(s): Jessica Vickery, Senior, Biology Fayetteville State University
Mentor(s): Kristen Delaney , Fayetteville State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 33
Potential Ultraviolet Light Repair Mechanisms of the Oral Bacteria, Campylobacter rectus
Campylobacter rectus is a gram negative bacteria found in the oral microbiota of most
periodontitis patients. The focus of this study is a gene of unknown function in C. rectus that has
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a high level of homology (80%) to a known DNA repair protein (UmuC). If the gene in C. rectus is
involved in DNA repair mechanisms, then a genomic knockout of the gene will show an increased
rate of death when exposed to UV light. A mutagenesis vector will be generated containing a
large span of DNA homologous to the regions flanking the gene of interest. When this vector is
transformed into C. rectus 33238 via electroporation, the genome will undergo a homologous
recombination event that will result in the excision of the target gene. The resulting mutant will
be compared to the parental strain in a variety of assays to analyze the ability to repair multiple
types of DNA damage. Current studies utilize an Escherichia coli mutant lacking umuC to develop
time courses and dose curves in DNA damage repair assays including UV-light exposure and
random mutagenesis assays. Our preliminary data confirm that UmuC-deficient E. coli is more
sensitive to UV light.
Student Author(s): Abigail Vining, Sophomore, Elementary Education East Carolina University
Mentor(s): Mary Farwell, East Carolina University
Alice Arnold East Carolina University
Presentation: Education, Oral Session 1 , 9:45 - 10:00 AM, Room 7B
Education and the Arts
Throughout the years, the different elements in Art and Education have been merged to create a
better learning environment and a more diverse lifestyle for people around the world. In Dr.
Arnold’s ART 3850: Art in the Elementary School class at East Carolina University, 64 students
completed a research PowerPoint on their interpretation of art and its meaning. Topics included
Special Education, Montessori Schools, and other famous artists. Scholarly research was done on
any topic related to art, and then using the information found, we created a unique PowerPoint
that explained these findings. We were able to find that each and every aspect of life has some
form of art in it, and that by connecting the arts to real life  people are able to have a more
successful life. In our presentation we will discuss how even though Montessori Schools and
Special Education are very different, they also have similar qualities which influence how their
own unique definition of art is beneficial to many people and how they enhance the lives of
people around our world.
Student Author(s): Daniel Vinton, Senior, Chemistry Wingate University
Mentor(s): Debra Davis, Wingate University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 48
Bacterial Fertilizer – Isolation of Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria for Use as Fertilizer
and Disease Control Agents
Enhancing crop growth allows for increased plant health which stimulates economic growth in
agriculturally-dependent areas such as NC. It has been observed that the use of organic potting
soil greatly enhances plant growth, and likely stimulates systemic resistance to bacterial root
pathogens. We sought to determine if plant growth promoting (PGP) bacteria capable of
inhibiting pathogens were present in organic potting soil. Soil microorganisms can positively
affect plant growth by contributing to plant nutrition, enhancing root growth, and antagonizing
pathogens. Twenty-six nitrogen fixing bacteria were isolated from serially diluted soil samples,
and each was distinguished by cellular and colony morphology. All isolates were tested for PGP
characteristics including Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, ammonia excretion, phosphate
solubility, and antagonistic capabilities against known bacterial and fungal plant pathogens. Six
isolates, including three actinomycete-like organisms, displayed distinct antagonistic capability,
and showed higher yields of ammonia excretion and/or IAA production. These six isolates were
chosen to test for their ability to enhance growth in tomato plants. Results indicate that bacterial
isolates, exhibiting several PGP characteristics, are present in organic potting soil, and in initial
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greenhouse studies portray promotion of plant seedling growth.
Student Author(s): Samuel Volstad, Senior, Physics Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Brad Conrad, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - General, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 50
Autonomous Dual-Axis Solar Tracker
As photovoltaic systems continue to grow as a commercial source of energy, the lower cost of
mass produced solar cells allows for new, inexpensive field applications for research purposes.
Over this summer, our team built a large scale prototype of an autonomous, dual-axis solar
tracker based around an Arduino microcontroller. The tracker can orient itself, regardless of sun
location, and has proven to successfully generate power over the testing duration. An initial
analysis of system efficiency and scalability will be presented. Additionally, production of a
miniature tracker that will include a comprehensive array of sensors, which will measure
altitude, orientation, humidity, directionality, and movement will be outlined.
Student Author(s): Rupa Vummalaneni, Junior, Biochemistry University of North Carolina Greensboro
Mentor(s): Mitchell Croatt, University of North Carolina - Greensboro
Presentation: Chemistry - General, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 20
Exploration and Optimization of a Novel Decarboxylative Coupling Reaction
Decarboxylation reactions are used in chemistry to synthesize or create molecules, and in recent
years, transition metals have been used as catalysts to enable decarboxylative coupling
reactions. These reactions are of interest because they increase the complexity of molecules in a
single step. These reactions typically require an organometallic reagent, such as palladium, and
are effective in forming C-C bonds. These metal-catalyzed decarboxylations typically require
anion-stabilizing groups, adjacent to the decarboxylated ester. During the course of our
synthesis of clinprost, we recently discovered a decarboxylation reaction of a pentadienyl
dienoate that did not require an anion stabilizing group. To better understand this novel
decarboxylative coupling reaction, a series of substrates have been synthesized and studied. The
mechanistic information obtained will be utilized to design additional new reactions.
Student Author(s): Christopher Waddell, Senior, Environmental Science Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Chris Thaxton, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Atmospheric Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number
64
Sources and Seasonal Characteristics of ozone and PM2.5 in Great Smoky Mountains
National Park, Look Rock, TN
Data obtained from January 2012 to May 2014 in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Look
Rock, TN, by the National Park Service were used to observe and analyze trends over time,
seasonal and diurnal characteristics, and background levels of Ozone and PM2.5. Trends in O3
and PM2.5 concentrations showed a yearly pattern of rising and falling. Highest levels for both
occurred in the spring and summer months, and lowest concentrations were observed from fall
to winter. Correlation plots showed a relationship between temperature and the high
concentrations of both ozone and PM2.5. Over all, seasonal and diurnal characteristics observed
were consistent with the research of Harden (2013), which involved analyzing ozone and PM2.5
data from 2008 to 2011 collected from the same monitoring station in Look Rock, TN.
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Student Author(s): Katherine Wang, Freshman, NA NC School of Science and Mathematics
Mentor(s): Myra Halpin, NC School of Science and Mathematics
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Oral Session 4, 3:30 - 3:45 PM, Room 8A
Novel Design and Synthesis of Optimized Aripiprazole as an Antidepressant
In pharmaceuticals, a major problem is that drugs are not effective enough and that along with
their wanted properties, there are also unwanted side effects. In this project, the molecule
aripiprazole (common name Abilify) was modified in order to create a more selective and
effective drug with less side effects. The modifications were chosen from literature and were
validated with computational software. Copper-catalyzed electrophilic amination, an organic
synthesis method still in development, was used to form the C-N bond in the aripiprazole
precursors. From these precursors, analogs of the compound were synthesized for biological
testing, including solubility in n-octanol/water and binding affinity to dopamine and serotonin
receptors. The molecules were successfully created, and the structure was confirmed by the
NMR. The computational results show that these analogs could help better optimize
aripiprazole, and the biological results will aid in the optimization of the compound. The
precursor reactions were, in general, run at room temperature in a 1:1 equivalence, which is a
large improvement over most industrial settings. However, the di-halogenated pyridines
deprotonated differently than expected, which raises questions about the synthesis method. This
research lays the groundwork for the synthesis of a selective and potent antidepressant drug.
Student Author(s): Jeffrey Watson, Senior, Biology Pfeiffer University
Mentor(s): Mark McCallum, Pfeiffer University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Microbiology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 44
Isolation of Thermophilic Starch- Utilizing Bacteria and Characterization of Amylase
Genes
Amylase enzymes that can break down plant starches are useful in the food industry as these
starch breakdown products are used to produce high fructose corn syrup and other modified
food starches. By identifying new or novel genes that code for unique amylase proteins,
industrial biotechnological practices that produce starch products can be improved. The
identification of these novel amylase enzymes involved the collaboration of genetics and
microbiology courses to isolate thermophilic bacteria that digest starch through a specific
temperature range. Following PCR amplification, the amylase genes were cloned with the pGEMT plasmid system from Promega, and the potential amylase clones were sequenced.
Bioinformatic tools were used to compare the determined sequences against other known
amylase enzymes. Additionally, the maximum and minimum growth temperatures were
determined for each bacterium.
Student Author(s): Jamie Watson, Senior, English University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Mentor(s): Mark Boren, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: English, Oral Session 4, 3:00 - 3:15 PM, Room 7A
"Many a Mighty Birth": Maternal Imagery and the Male-Authored Womb in Moby-Dick,
Edgar Huntly, and Dracula
Prior to the call for a women’s style of writing by twentieth-century feminists, male-centered
narratives dominated literary practice, including Gothic fiction. Characterized by its
psychological landscapes and a pervasive sense of “something missing,” early Gothic storytelling
often sidelined female characters. However, the feminine was not entirely absent from these
narratives. Consciously or unconsciously, maternal metaphor is rampant within male-authored
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texts of the late-eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, such as Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick,
Charles Brockden Brown’s Edgar Huntly, and Bram Stoker’s Dracula.Throughout these texts,
fictional wombscapes allow male characters to access and control an externalized, “missing”
maternal body. My presentation explores this early tradition of masculine rhetoric and how it
continues today, evident in popular culture—a rhetoric that exercises control over real women
through its continued effects upon current reproductive rights discourses.
Student Author(s): Sophie Weaver, Freshman, Health Care Management Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Joe Bryan, Appalachian State University
Presentation: English, Oral Session 3, 2:00 - 2:15 PM, Room 7A
Granting Asylum for Illegal Immigrants
Many immigrants, especially from Central America, come to seek asylum in America for many
reasons. Statistics suggest that there are between 70,000 to 500,000 gang members in Central
America, whereas the state of Texas has approximately 100,000 gang members. Immigrants also
come because of the drop of extreme poverty, which is around 75% in Central America, and the
malnourishment in children is approximately 50%. In the United States only one-third of illegal
immigrants are living in extreme poverty. Another critical issue affecting Central America is the
lack of clean water. 100 million people in Central America do not have access to safe water. In
fact, approximately 77 million homes in these nations do not even have a water connection
(World Water Council). Staffers of Senators Richard Burr and Kay Hagan agree that illegal
immigrants “Must go,” yet policies being passed through the Senate, such as the Comprehensive
Immigration Act, are trying to reform immigration to gain a profit and fix situations immigrants
enter into. Instead of focusing on improving methods to resolve illegal immigration, immigrants
from Central America should be granted automatic asylum as the United States provides a safer
and cleaner environment than many Central American countries can provide.
Student Author(s): Nicole Wehbie, Junior, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Lisa McGraw, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Genetics, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 37
Genetically classifying sexual behavior in a diverse genera
Along with the influx of genome sequencing and genome annotation for specific species, the
drive to understand the role of sexual selection in evolution has lead to an increased interest in
the genetic classification of mating system variation. This interest in the impact of sexual
selection has provided opportunities to reconstruct the evolutionary history of genera that
exhibit wide displays of mating behaviors, such as with voles in the genus Microtus. Comparative
analysis of genes and gene families encoding mating-related phenotypes, using DNA sequencing,
is an important tool for understanding the evolutionary history and selective pressures acting on
these genes. Previous studies have used forms of phylogenetic analysis programs to give insights
into the relationship between molecular evolution and mating/social system evolution. The
intent of this study is to utilize this sequence analysis and computational tools to investigate and
compare the molecular evolution of seminal fluid protein genes and genes known to be involved
in social behaviors across multiple species of voles. This would respectively give insights into the
genetic basis of mating system variation and aid in reconstructing the reproductive evolutionary
history of voles.
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Student Author(s): Mikayla Wickman, Senior, Mechanical Engineering Duke University
Mentor(s): Nimmi Ramanujam, Duke University
Christine Mulvey Duke University
Presentation: Education, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 67
Worldwide Empowerment of Women Engineers (WEWE)
In Muhuru Bay, Kenya, access to light is limited. An estimated 96% of rural Kenya is not on the
power grid; buildings that are face frequent, week-long outages. We started an engineering club
that teaches high-school girls at WISER NGO to make renewable-energy lights using local
materials and sell them within their community. Rather than donating lights, we empower girls
to be change-makers: they design and build everything themselves. This leverages the resource
of motivated women to address Muhuru Bay’s light deficit. They already designed and
constructed 26 flashlights currently used during school blackouts. The idea for community sales
came from members of the school, indicating community interest. Before sales, the community
will be surveyed for interest, cost, and type to ensure that the product will meet their needs. We
expect sales of 200 flashlights within the first six months and, after six months, 80% to continue
being used. A free repairs program by the WISER girls will help limit discontinued use due to
damage. WISER students, teachers, and alumni will manage the program. Students will request
access to materials through submitting “design proposals”. Although sales provide long-term
support, initial outside fundraising ensures quality materials and maintains affordable prices.
Having integrated with WISER, we are in the early implementation stage. We hope to receive
feedback on our sales plan, connect with industry partners and other groups for idea sharing and
materials donations, and identify long- and short-term funding sources.
Student Author(s): Kris Wiedenheft, Senior, Mechanical Engineering North Carolina A&T State
University
Mentor(s): John Kizito, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Engineering - Mechanical & Aerospace, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 54
Scaled T-Junction Cylindrical Model Validation using Surface Evolver
Scaled T-Junction Cylindrical Model Validation using Surface Evolver is a response to the largescale time commitment required before results will be available from the NASA-funded
undergraduate Fluids Education experiments. The scientific primary goal of Scaled T-Junction
Cylindrical Model Validation using Surface Evolver is to produce preliminary results for Surface
Evolver validation via a scale model of a Fluids Education hardware design. A secondary goal is
to create a test format which increases the possibility of student participation in this level of
capillary fluid physics exploration in the future. One of the objectives is to create and test a scale
model of the Fluids Education test hardware, where scaling is calculated based on Bond number.
The focus here is on the comparison of the results of the scale model physical experiments to
predictions developed for a full-scale Fluids Education test hardware design. Results are an
addition to the larger ongoing effort assessing the reliability of Surface Evolver for design of
spaceflight systems and low Bond number Earth-bound systems, such as medical devices and
automotive fuel cells as well as a variety of physiological and biological processes. Secondarily,
the results increase the potential for future student contributions to capillary fluid physics
research.
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Student Author(s): Raymond Wiggins, Junior, Biology Livingstone College
Mentor(s): Nicole Snyder, Davidson College
Presentation: Chemistry - General, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number 50
THE SYNTHESIS OF CARBOHYDRATE PORPHYRIN AND CARBOHYDRATE PHTALOCYANINE
CONJUGATES FOR TARGETED PDT
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment that involves injecting a drug called a
photosensitizer into the body and activating the photosensitizer using a specific wavelength of
light. This activated photosensitizer then causes the formation of reactive oxygen species which
destroys cells. PDT has been used to treat different types of conditions such as bacterial, fungal
and viral infections but is it most commonly used for cancer treatment. However, there are
several limits to PDT including selectivity, solubility and tissue penetration. In our research, we
focused on two modular approaches for the synthesis of novel PDT agents: carbohydrate
porphyrin and carbohydrate phthalocyanine conjugates. The carbohydrates serve the dual
purpose of increasing selectivity and solubility, while the porphyrin and phthalocyanine can be
activated at different wavelengths to target different tumor types. The complete synthesis of
both the carbohydrate porphyrin and carbohydrate phthalocyanine conjugates will be discussed.
Student Author(s): Joshua Williams, Freshman, Biology Elizabeth City State University
Dayton Bell, Sophomore, Biology, Elizabeth City State University
Brianna Morris, Sophomore, Biology, Elizabeth City State University
Mentor(s): Hirendranath Banerjee, Elizabeth City State University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 5
Effect of Tumor Micro Environment on Phagocytic Capabilities of Vertebrate Macrophages
Cancer is a hetergenous disease involving various factors for growth and metastasis of the
malignant cells. Macrophages are the body’s normal defense cells that fight against foreign or
dying cells, bacteria and pathogens by engulfing them by phagocytosis. Since cancer cells are
foreign to the normal cellular environment, they are supposed to be phagocytosed and destroyed
by the macrophages. However, research shows that the cancer cell in the tumor
microenvironment (TME) suppress the macrophage activity and recruits the macrophages to
become Tumor Associated Macrophages (TAM) to help them to grow and metastasize. In this
study, we grew vertebrate (fish) macrophages in different cancer cell lines medium and tested
the efficacy of phagocytosis of these TME exposed macrophages in comparison to normal growth
medium. Our initial results showed that using p-Rhodo (Invitrogen, USA) phagocytosis testing
system, the TAM showed reduced phagocytic activity in TME from brain and colon cancer cells.
We will continue to study the effect of other cancer TME on these macrophages and also the
mechanism involved in this process. Acknowledgement: Grant from Louis Stokes Alliance for
Minority Participation (LSAMP) Program, NSF-USA. Also, from a grant from Borroughs
Welllcome Fund to HNB, supported this research.
Student Author(s): Michael Williams, Senior, Chemical Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): James Martin, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Physical, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 34
The Structure and Properties of Zinc Chloride Hydrates
Our group aims to better understand the molecular structure of liquids; we have found that
current solution theory does not entirely account for the short-range order of liquids. The zinc
chloride water system has the potential to reversibly sorb large amounts of water, and
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demonstrates a number of uncommon properties in solution, including the ability to dissolve
cellulose. This study uses an environmentally controlled microbalance to measure the amount of
water sorbed by a zinc chloride sample; independent variables include the vapor pressure of the
water and the sample temperature. By studying the sorption isotherms we are able to draw
conclusions about the thermodynamics of the sorption and desorption processes. One goal is to
determine if there are thermodynamically favored ratios of water to zinc chloride; it was found
that around 19-21 molar equivalents of water is strongly favored by the system, to the point that
otherwise consistent sorption trends were reversed.
Student Author(s): Dylan Williams, Senior, Physics University of North Carolina - Asheville
Mentor(s): James Perkins, University of North Carolina - Asheville
Presentation: Physics - Atomic & Molecular, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 58
Modeling E&M fields within Periodically Poled Ferroelectric Templates
An electric field model for ferroelectric templates examines a novel lithography technique which
is used in the growth of nanowires. In ferroelectric lithography silver is selectively deposited at
the 180 degree domain boundaries of ferroelectric substrates. Current understanding of
nanowire production does not have a well documented explanation of both desired domain
boundary wires and undesired interstitial growth. To assist, a model of the electric fields near
the surface of ferroelectric templates was created, specifically focusing on periodically poled
lithium niobate (PPLN). This model was then utilized to determine how various surface
imperfections and material attributes, such as screening properties, affected the electric field
and therefore nanowire growth. To test this model a discrete event simulation of the paths of
multiple particles was compared to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images from actual
depositions of AgNO3 on PPLN samples. The results and methodology are given here to improve
silver nanowires synthesis for use in applications such as surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy
and disinfection.
Student Author(s): Caleb Wilson, Senior, Microbiology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Chase Beisel, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Chemical & Biomolecular, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 60
Analysis of TPP riboswitch regulation in thiamine biosynthesis operons in E.coli.
Riboswitches are noncoding RNAs within a transcript whose folded structures bind with high
selectivity and sensitivity to a ligand and subsequently regulate local gene expression. The
secondary structure of the riboswitch is directly responsible for the mechanism of regulation
which can occur in transcription, translation, or by altering splicing patterns. In addition they
can vary in both sequence and mechanism across species and riboswitch types. From a metabolic
engineering perspective, these properties could induce a unique level of complexity and
tunability for constructing pathways beyond that of the promoters, regulatory proteins, and
ribosome binding sites. The thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) binding riboswitches is the largest
and only known class to be found in all three domains of life. Of the thiamine biosynthesis
operons in E.coli, thiBPQ, thiMD, and thiCEFSGH are regulated by a TPP riboswitch located in the
5' untranslated region of each transcript. Much of the research on TPP riboswitches in E.coli
focus on thiM, where in contrast the riboswitches in the 5'UTR of thiB and thiC have not been
examined as intently. This project sought to characterize all three in terms of quantifying ligand
binding sensitivity of each, determine how switch-like their behavior is, and experimentally
identifying the mechanism of regulation in each. This was done by assembling the cloned 5'UTR
of the E.coli thiamine riboswitch controlled operons with a synthetic promoter and the
appropriate thiB/M/C-gfp fusion. This coupled the riboswitch conveyed regulation to the
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fluorescence of the gfp fusion protein allowing for in-vivo observation by flow cytometry.
Student Author(s): Robert Wimbish, Senior, Biochemistry North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Ruben Carbonell, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Chemical & Biomolecular, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 35
Optimizing protein binding capacities in PBT nonwovens by reducing diffusion limitations
Nonwoven membranes with polymer brushes are used to bind proteins, and optimization of
their binding is a growing area of research in the field of bioseparations. Polybutylene
terephthalate (PBT) can be modified for binding with a UV-induced polyGMA grafting process,
creating a dense 3D matrix which can then be functionalized for ion exchange. Although the
maximum binding capacity achieved by commercial PBT membranes is high, it takes hours to
reach equilibrium due to slow diffusion of protein through the dense matrix. Using material with
a larger specific surface area provides a solution to this problem, as the thickness of the grafted
matrix will be decreased, allowing for achievement of high protein binding capacities with a
reduced equilibrium time due to diffusion. In this study, commercial PBT was compared to a
novel islands-in-the-sea (I/S) PBT nonwoven with specific surface areas of 0.9m2/g and
2.5m2/g, respectively. The nonwovens were grafted and functionalized for anion and cation
exchange. Binding capacities of 800-900 mg/g were achieved at 18-20% weight gain for both
materials. The I/S PBT achieved equilibrium binding capacity in several minutes, compared to
commercial PBT required several hours of binding time. The I/S material achieved this due to
faster protein diffusion due to a graft matrix of less density than the commercial PBT.
Student Author(s): Leigh Winters, Senior, Sociology Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Catherine Harris, Wake Forest University
Presentation: Sociology , Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 32
Barbie Girl, Mattel World: A Case-Study of Avoidance, Compromise, and Accommodation
in Corporate Manufacturing Conflict
Mattel Inc., a well-established toy company, is the world’s largest toymaker and owns the
production rights to a majority of children play toys currently on the market. If one examined the
toy chest of most children, one would discover several popular Mattel brands including Barbie,
Fisher-Price, Cabbage Patch Kids, Hot Wheels, Polly Pocket, and Disney. It all started in a
California garage workshop when Ruth and Elliot Handler and Matt Matson founded Mattel in
1945. The company started out making picture frames, but the founders soon recognized the
profitability of the toy industry and switched their emphasis to toys. Mattel became a publicly
owned company in 1960, with sales exceeding $100 million by 1965. Over the next forty years,
Mattel went on to become the world’s largest toy company in terms of revenue. Currently
headquartered in El Segundo, California, with offices across the world, Mattel markets its
products in over 150 nations. Because of their large production scale, Mattel has manufacturing
plants across the globe, and unsurprisingly, the company boasts nearly $5.9 billion in annual
revenue. Recently, Mattel was pitched into the center of a boiling controversy over the safety of
products made in China. At the center of a hotbed debate, Mattel’s situation provides a
compelling case-study regarding the changing nature of manufacturing in an increasingly
globalized world, in which they found themselves dependent on a culture of labor inconsistent
with their ethical values. With a symbiotic relationship between Mattel and their Chinese
manufacturers in jeopardy, the issue was ultimately resolved.
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Student Author(s): Maria Withrow, Senior, Mechanical Engineering North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Timothy Horn, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Engineering - Industrial & Systems, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 21
Rotational External Ring Fixator
Bifocal deformities at the radius are a category of limb deformity in canines which cause cranial
displacement and flexion of the carpus at a stance and while walking. This is known as buckling.
While surgical solutions are possible, they are often risky and may lead to the loss of the limb.
Bone osteogenesis using External Ring Fixator systems have been used to make angular and
axial corrections in such deformities. However to date no system is available for rotational
corrections. This project focuses on the design and development of an external ring fixator
developed to apply a torsional load to the osteomized canine bone and slowly change the bone
orientation. Four designs were considered to maximize the application torque while minimizing
backlash. The Ring Fixator designed, analyzed, and tested in the foregoing research will lead to a
safe treatment for bifocal deformities in canines.
Student Author(s): Kaitly Woodard, Senior, Chemistry Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Libby Puckett, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 15
Determination
of Enzyme
Kinetics
Using
Capillary
Electrophoresis
and
Electrophoretically Mediated Microanalysis
The overall goal of this project is to determine a faster approach for finding the MichaelisMenten constant, or Km, for a particular enzymatic reaction using capillary electrophoresis (CE).
The method being employed, electrophoretically mediated microanalysis (EMMA), allows the
enzymatic reaction to take place on-column and the resultant products to be separated and
detected due to varying migration rates. This technique offers several analytical advantages,
such as simplicity and speed in addition to a unique reaction format and control of the
interaction of enzyme and substrate.
EMMA assays for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD/H) dependent enzymes have been
developed and performed using the native UV absorbance (340 nm) of the reduced form of this
cofactor. By using cofactors, the kinetic constants of the enzyme and inhibitor will be
determined indirectly. Initial experimentation has been performed using the enzyme alcohol
dehydrogenase, a well-characterized enzyme responsible for the breakdown of ethanol in the
body.
Student Author(s): Rebecca Woodward, Senior, Anthropology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): James Wallace, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Anthropology, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 28
Tourism Development in Sololá, Sololá, Guatemala
Nestled among the large expanse of green forest, up and away from the picturesque shores of
Lake Atitlan, the town of Sololá, Guatemala sits hidden from the average tourist’s gaze. Despite
being located on the well-travelled Pan-American Highway, Sololá is not a popular destination of
choice for the thousands of tourists that flock to the famous site of Lake Atitlán. The
contradiction between the many tourists going to Lake Atitlan destinations and their absence in
Solola is astounding. The focus of my research during the Summer of 2014 focuesed on
understanding the causes for the lack of tourism in the highland town and what was currently
happening, if anything, to promote its development as a tourist destination. My research shows
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that residents have not joined the tourism initiative for multiple reasons, including the fear of
loss of traditional Kaqchikel, Maya culture, and I attempt to explain why this is the case in this
paper.
Student Author(s): Emily Wright, Senior, Chemistry Wake Forest University
Mentor(s): Mark Welker, Wake Forest University
Presentation: Chemistry - Biochemistry, Oral Session 4, 3:00 - 3:15 PM, Room 8A
Synthesis of Prostate Targeted Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Inhibitors
The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway is a key biological process in the
progression of cells and is dysregulated in the majority of human cancers. Clinical trials have
suggested that inhibitors of the PI3K/Akt pathway are a viable and effective way to treat
cancerous tumors by inhibiting cellular growth mechanisms and inducing apoptosis. Our lab
specializes in designing and synthesizing novel PI3K inhibitors predicted to display lower
toxicity effects and enhanced cell specificity compared to other PI3K inhibitors currently used in
tumor treatment. Most successful PI3K inhibitors possess common structural properties that
are important for binding and functionality. They usually contain a pyrimidine or triazine core
structure, a morpholine group, and a hydrogen bond donor on an aromatic ring that can
participate in bonding interactions within the active site of the enzyme. In addition to those
groups, our compounds contain a prostate specific antigen recognizable sequence shown to aid
in enhanced cellular specificity to prostate cells. Our lab was able to synthesize two of our
designed target molecules this summer. These potential inhibitors are currently being screened
using a variety of cancer cells in Dr. George Kulik’s Cancer Biology lab.
Student Author(s): Meghan Wyatt, Senior, Biology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Melissa Srougi, High Point University
Presentation: Biomedical Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1 Poster Number
62
ATM activation of Rac1 through a guanine nucleotide exchange factor independent
pathway
Ataxia telangiectasia (A-T) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by neuromotor
dysfunction, telangiectasia, premature aging, and a predisposition to cancer. A-T patients lack
functional ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) protein, which is a serine-threonine kinase
known to facilitate double-stranded break (DSB) repair as well as regulate oxidative stress. In
addition to DSB repair, our lab has shown that ATM modulates Rho GTPases; particularly Rac1.
Rho GTPases have been shown to regulate the actin cytoskeleton, cell adhesion and cell
polarization. The regulation of Rho GTPases is modulated by GDP binding which inactivates the
proteins and GTP binding which activates the proteins. GDP-bound inactive Rac is regulated by
GDP-dissociation inhibitors (GDIs) and GTPase activating proteins (GAPs.) Conversely, GTPbound, active Rac1 is promoted by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs). In previous
studies using ATM deficient cells, loss of ATM increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) that
elevated GTP-bound active Rac1 levels. Based on these previous data, we hypothesized that GEFs
may act independently from ROS in the activation of Rac1 in ATM inhibited cells. In this study,
ATM activity was inhibited in HeLa cells using the compound Ku55933 and subsequent Rac1GTP levels were determined both with and without treatment with the GEF inhibitor NSC23766.
Our data show that ATM inhibition leads to an increase in Rac1 activity regardless of GEF
activation. This suggests that Rac1 activity is mediated through a GEF-independent, but ROSdependent mechanism. Elucidating this mechanism may lead to a better understanding of A-T
patients’ predisposition to cancer.
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Student Author(s): Daran Wynn, Senior, Industrial & Systems Engineering North Carolina A&T
State University
Mentor(s): Tonya Smith-Jackson, North Carolina A&T State University
Presentation: Engineering - Industrial & Systems, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1
Poster Number 20
The Analysis of Sensor Systems within the Living Environment of Dementia Patients
Dementia is the loss of mental functions. Currently, 8.9 million family members provide care for
someone with dementia. While there is an issue of increased caregiver burden, this study
proposes to integrate technology in the form of sensor systems within a living environmental
schematic for persons with dementia (PWD). The goal is to implement a smart house to decrease
the burden on a caregiver. A smart house is a residence equipped with technology that observes
the residents, while monitoring their health conditions and enhancing their safety. The smart
house will serve as a solution to support independent living of PWD and increase the relief of
caregivers. With the sensor systems, data will be analyzed to gain information on the verbal and
physical agitation episodes, which enables the caregivers to intervene before agitation increases.
The research outcome will address the challenges of sensor systems within the living
environment, while analyzing sensor streams to maximize information to relieve the stress on a
caregiver. Hence, by reducing the likelihood of institutionalization using the sensor system, PWD
will be able to age within their nurturing living environment, resulting in less stress on the
caregiver.
Student Author(s): Grace Xiong, Senior, n/a NC School of Science and Mathematics
Mentor(s): Nico Hotz, Duke University
Presentation: Engineering - Materials, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 67
Novel Solar Fuel Production of Hydrogen Gas Using Plasmonic-Assisted Heterogeneous
Catalysis
Alternative energy plays one of the most important roles in solving both economic and
geopolitical problems that the world faces today. Most alternative energy methods, however, are
not widely used because they are costly and inefficient. In this research, I propose a novel steammethanol reforming method to generate hydrogen gas without heating the entire reactor, as is
common with the conventional methods. Plasmonic nanoparticles and a heterogeneous catalyst
are used together to create a reaction that is heated at localized surface plasmon resonance sites
by plasmonic light absorption to generate hydrogen gas. The assembled reactor is tested under a
solar simulator to determine if hydrogen gas is produced. My experimental tests demonstrate
that hydrogen gas can indeed be generated in a cold reactor, which has not been done before.
Additionally, the proposed method has the highest absorbency out of several variations and it
can help significantly reduce the cost and increase the efficiency of solar fuels.
Student Author(s): Andrea Yammine, Senior, Marine Biology University of North Carolina Wilmington
Mentor(s): Thomas Lankford, University of North Carolina - Wilmington
Presentation: Marine Sciences, Poster Session 3, 1:15 - 2:15 PM, Room 1 Poster Number 57
Title: Influence of Beach Renourishment on Sediment Grain Size and Fish Habitat
Utilization Patterns at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
Wrightsville Beach has been renourished since 1938 to combat erosional losses of sand and
protect oceanfront structures. Little is known about the long-term effects that this practice may
have on fish habitat quality and utilization of the adjacent surf zone. In this presentation, I will
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(1) evaluate changes to sediment grain size distributions associated with three successive (2006,
2010 and 2014) renourishment projects, and (2) investigate whether sediment changes resulted
in altered fish abundance and utilization patterns at renourished (n=3) versus control (n=4) sites
for four common species. Sediment and fish data available for these analyses were collected
over the period 2006-2014. A BACI test showed a trend for nourished beaches to accumulate
more fine sediment immediately after nourishment, and gradually drift towards coarser
sediments. Results of statistical analyses showed significant effects of nourishment on fish
abundance. Initial analysis shows a positive correlation between renourishment efforts and fish
abundance on the renourished beaches. The implications of the results for the design of future
renourishment projects at Wrightsville Beach will be discussed.
Student Author(s): Cecilia Yanez, Sophomore, International Business Appalachian State
University
Mentor(s): Joe Bryan, Appalachian State University
Presentation: International Studies, Oral Session 2, 11:30 - 11:45 AM, Room 8B
The Investigation of The Cultural Evolution of Hispanic Children
Hispanic children across the United States, specifically in Watauga County, North Carolina, are
serving as cultural pioneers for their people. Through a recent phenomenon known as Cultural
Diglossia, Hispanic youth are creating a unique culture evolving from the two most prominent
cultures they experience in their day to day life: American and Hispanic. These youth have taken
elements, from both cultures and combined them to create their current cultural standing. As if
they have one hand in American culture and one hand in Hispanic culture, Hispanic youth have
then taken part in cultural diglossia. Out of cultural diglossia comes a process known as selective
assimilation. The Hispanic youth flourish in selective assimilation because it allows them to
adapt to a variety of experiences they encounter regularly. For example, most Watauga County
public schools have less than a two percent Hispanic population; on another note, many Hispanic
families in Watauga County are often immigrants or contain parents whom are immigrants that
come to this region to work in one of the abundant farms. Children in these Hispanic families
encounter an American lifestyle while at school, by associating with mostly white Americans,
speaking only English and partaking in typical American customs. However, being immigrants or
children of immigrants, the term “selective” assimilation is almost unfitting, because in order for
these children to function in the widely varied aspects of their day, they have no choice but to
“select” assimilation into whichever culture stands in front of them.
Student Author(s): Joshua York, Senior, Biology Catawba College
Mentor(s): Carmony Hartwig, Catawba College
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 8
Morphological and Molecular Identification of Mosquito Diversity in the Fred Stanback Jr.
Ecological Preserve at Catawba College
The Fred Stanback Jr. Ecological Preserve (FSJEP), located in the central piedmont, is a 68 Ha
natural area bracketed by the Catawba College campus, a riparian greenway, and residential
areas. Prior to 2013 the species diversity of mosquito populations in the FSJEP was largely
unknown, primarily due to a twenty year lapse in surveillance. In order to continue our
investigation of species richness, relative abundance, and invasive species establishment we
expanded our 2013 survey of mosquito populations from four to seven collection locations in
April – September 2014. Samples were identified morphologically and compared with the 1996
(Harrison and colleagues) and our 2013 reference collections. Currently we have
morphologically identified 28 mosquito taxa, including 2 species previously unreported in the
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FSJEP. Ongoing efforts to confirm species identity through an established method for 18S and
CO1 DNA barcoding will further enhance our understanding of mosquito diversity in the FSJEP.
Student Author(s): Danielle Young, Junior, Biochemistry and Plant Biology North Carolina State
University
Mentor(s): Heike Sederoff, North Carolina State University
Colin Murphree North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Plant Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 3
Recycling the Nitrogen from Algae Biomass Using an L-amino acid oxidase
The freshwater alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii possesses the ability to scavenge nitrogen from
its environment using a unique enzyme called L-amino acid oxidase (LAO1). LAO1 catalyzes a
reaction which yields an alpha-keto acid conjugate (2-oxo acid) and ammonia (NH3) via oxidative
deamination of an L-amino acid. C. reinhardtii and other algae assimilate the ammonia generated
from this enzymatic reaction and use this ammonia as a nitrogen source to synthesize nitrogencontaining biomolecules. We hypothesize that LAO1 can be used to generate ammonia from
amino acids in vitro. This ammonia could serve as a source of nitrogen for strains of algae that
are potential feedstocks for biofuel production but cannot utilize residual biomass as a nitrogen
source. We expressed LAO1 recombinantly using Escherichia coli and purified the enzyme. The
enzymatic activity of purified LAO1 to release ammonia from amino acids will be assessed in
vitro.
Student Author(s): Ashley Yow, Senior, Plant Biology North Carolina State University
Mentor(s): Qiuyun Xiang, North Carolina State University
Presentation: Biological Sciences - Plant Sciences, Poster Session 1, 9:45 - 10:45 AM, Room 1
Poster Number 1
Genome size variation and evolution in the dogwood genus Cornus L. – flow cytometry
analyses and phylogenetic mapping
Dogwoods (Cornus L., Cornaceae) are an economically important group, frequently used in
landscaping, of approximately 55 species. Most are diploid, but chromosome numbers and size
vary with x =9 (7 small, 2 large), 10 (8 small, 1 large), and 11 (all small). We examined the
genome size of 33 species using flow cytometry analyses on dry and fresh leaf samples to gain
insight into the evolutionary pattern of genome size and its relationship to cytotypes. We
followed the Partec UV Precise P protocol to determine the 2C value for the Cornus species using
Pisum sativum ‘Ctirad’ as an internal standard. The 1C genome size data were analyzed on a
phylogeny of the genus using the parsimony method and a Binary Bayesian method (BBM), in
order to infer the evolutionary trend of genome sizes. The results showed that genome size
varies from a 1C value of 0.86 pg for Cornus peruviana, to 5.15 pg for Cornus eydeana, a 5.99-fold
difference. Ancestral reconstruction via Mesquite 3.0 and RASP software, using the parsimony
method and BBM, respectively, showed that the ancestral genome was relatively small, with 1Cx
= 1.03 to 1.49 pg, and evolved at different rates to greater sizes in different lineages.
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Student Author(s): Kaitlin Zarcone, Senior, Computer Engineering University of North Carolina
- Charlotte
Mentor(s): James Conrad, University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Presentation: Engineering - Electrical & Computer, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM,
Room 1 Poster Number 64
Augmented Reality for Visualizing Computational Fluid
This project involves the visualization of computational fluid dynamics, CFD, results through
augmented reality. This is in order to enhance the analysis and perspective of CFD visualization.
The use of ARToolKit’s SDK and Blender Game Engine Software were used in order to create a
three-dimensional view of the CFD results. These results were gathered from TecPlot images and
recreated through the Blender Game Engine onto a 3D printed cube acting as a focal point for all
of the images. The expected outcome of this project is to demonstrate CFD results on to a 3D
cube using augmented reality where the results would move as the cube moves. This so that one
could have an easier experience analyzing the results rather than having to go back and forth
with ParaView and TecPlot in order to show the image needed. The real outcome was almost as
expected as the object was not able to be positioned in the middle of the cube and was placed on
top of each face. Also, the objects movements were not as smooth as one would want along with
the CFD data was not as clear as it should have been due to the recreation process in Blender.
This projects conclusion would be a great prototype for future improvements. This project
contributes to NASA’s missions and goals by enabling a form of visualization in order to help
analyze and study the different forms of CFD in a more physical environment.
Student Author(s): Kayla Zimmerman, Junior, Physics Appalachian State University
Mentor(s): Jennifer Burris, Appalachian State University
Presentation: Physics - Condensed Matter, Poster Session 4, 2:30 - 3:30 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 54
Automation of PSD Calibration and Confocal Raman Spectroscopy
Raman-tweezers is an optical technique that combines Raman spectroscopy and optical
tweezers. The Raman-tweezers apparatus is able to trap and manipulate small particles,
measure forces acting on these particles, and simultaneously identify or collect structural
information about the sample. We have successfully trapped and manipulated single, ten micron,
polystyrene beads and collected Raman spectra of them. We are currently working on
automating several aspects of the system using LabVIEW, including the calibration of the
position sensing diode (PSD) needed for the optical tweezers and the alignment of the confocal
Raman spectroscopy portion of the apparatus.
Student Author(s): Alyssa Zsido, Senior, Biology Meredith College
Mentor(s): Francie Cuffney, Meredith College
Presentation: Environmental Sciences, Poster Session 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Room 1 Poster
Number 13
Impact of Riparian zone variation on stream quality in Wake County
This study was conducted to characterize the riparian zones and analyze organic content of
benthic samples from three Wake County streams (Walnut and Mill Creeks, and the Neuse River)
in order to observe how urbanization has impacted the concentration and types of leaf tannins in
the water and benthic zones. As the interface between land and water, the riparian zone is an
important component of aquatic ecology and an indicator of environmental conditions in aquatic
ecosystems. A better understanding of the relationship between riparian zone land usage and
water quality can inform environmental management policy and inform decisions about future
urbanization around local waterways. This study included observations of stream riparian zones,
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sampling of tannin concentrations, and analysis of benthic samples for organic content. Results
indicated that the type of riparian zone as well as tannin concentrations in the water varied
between sites and that in the case of Mill Creek, higher percentage of vegetation in the riparian
zone correlated with lower levels of urbanization. Tannin level data was inconclusive, and the
minimal variation in organic content among benthic samples did not allow for a correlation
between organic content and degree of urbanization in riparian zones.
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INDEX OF ALL STUDENT PRESENTERS
LISTED ALPHABETICALLY
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Index of All Student Presenters
Alphabetical by Student Last Name
Student Presenter
Abdou-Tchoussou,
Boubacar
Adams, Joel
Agyapong, Ama
Presentation Type
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 4
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 22
Room 1
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 53
Room 1
Discipline
Institution
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
North Carolina A&T
State University
Biological Sciences Genetics
Fayetteville State
University
Physics - Condensed Matter
(Electronic Materials,
Elizabeth City State
Optics, Soft Matter,
University
Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
Ajmera, Ajay
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 10
Room 1
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
East Carolina
University
Alahari, Samthosh
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 6
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Alhadi, Rasheed
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 55
Room 1
Engineering - Biomedical
Duke University
Allen, Abbey
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 15
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Asheville
Allman, Anna
Oral Session 3
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Room 7A
English
Appalachian State
University
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Alverio, Tabitha
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 16
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Anderson, Erik
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 46
Room 1
Earth Science
East Carolina
University
Andrade, Ramiro
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 13
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Pfeiffer University
Arrepu, Pranav
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 60
Room 1
Earth Science
NC School of Science
and Mathematics
Ashley, Shelby
Oral Session 4
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Room 4
Economics
Salem College
Askew, Lauren
Oral Session 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Askew, Teneika
Oral Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Room 7A
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
Fayetteville State
University
Avila, Jessica
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 34
Room 1
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
Nash Community
College
Avva, Keshav
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 4
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
Appalachian State
University
Bala, Vidhya
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 8A
Statistics
Appalachian State
University
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Balakrishnan,
Krishnaveni
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 5
Biomedical Sciences
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Baptiste, Jason
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 50
Room 1
Physics - General
Appalachian State
University
Baran, Christine
Oral Session 4
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
Pfeiffer University
Barbour, Alexandra
Oral Session 4
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Room 3
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
Guilford College
Barnes, Tianna
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 5
Room 1
Business
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Barney, Jaden
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 8B
Arts - Performing
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Barron, Joseph
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 4
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
North Carolina
Central University
Batchelor, Meredith
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 65
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
East Carolina
University
Beatty, Cherese
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 64
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
East Carolina
University
Bedsole, Sidney
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 23
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
East Carolina
University
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Beeson, Shane
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 4
Room 1
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Bell, Dayton
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 5
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
Elizabeth City State
University
Bennett, Bryan
Oral Session 1
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
Methodist University
Benson, Kiera
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 56
Room 1
Engineering - Biomedical
North Carolina
Central University
Bent, Brinnae
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 53
Room 1
Engineering - Biomedical
North Carolina State
University
Benton, Thomas
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 44
Room 1
Physics - Astrophysics
University of North
Carolina - Asheville
Berger, Travis
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 43
Room 1
Physics - Astrophysics
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Bergstedt, Madison
Oral Session 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Room 3
Philosophy & Religious
Studies
Appalachian State
University
Bermudez Quiroz,
Giovanna
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 32
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
Fayetteville State
University
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Berry, Hannah
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 24
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
Besana, Gibea
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 24
Room 1
International Studies
North Carolina State
University
Bhowmik, Anuradha
Oral Session 2
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Room 8A
English
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Birchard, Mariah
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 48
Room 1
Physics - General
Appalachian State
University
Bishop, Anna
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 1
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
Appalachian State
University
Blauser, Kelsey
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 10
Room 1
Psychology
Pfeiffer University
Bostian, Micah
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 66
Room 1
Engineering - Materials
Pfeiffer University
Boyd, Mary
Oral Session 4
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Room 8B
History
Pfeiffer University
Bramwell, Cadine
Oral Session 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
Saint Augustine’s
University
Bramwell, Colleen
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 38
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
Saint Augustine’s
University
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Bramwell, Colliet
Oral Session 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
Saint Augustine’s
University
Brenner, Rebecca
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 39
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
Duke University
Brown, Anita
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 32
Room 1
Engineering - Civil,
Construction &
Environmental
Duke University
Brown, Caleb
Oral Session 3
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Room 8A
Chemistry - Inorganic
Guilford College
Brown, Elizabeth
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 8
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Catawba College
Brown, Grant
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 4
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
Appalachian State
University
Brown, Jenna
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 47
Room 1
Physics - Biophysics
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Brown, Marline
Oral Session 4
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Room 8B
History
Meredith College
Bryant, Ashley
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 27
Room 1
Anthropology
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Bryant, Edward
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 25
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
East Carolina
University
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Bryant, Edward
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 23
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
East Carolina
University
Bujnis, Melissa
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 35
Room 1
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
East Carolina
University
Bullock, Daniel
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 40
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
North Carolina State
University
Bullock, Schnavya
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 16
Room 1
English
Guilford Technical
Community College
Burton, Eric
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 63
Room 1
Earth Science
Appalachian State
University
Butler, Kelsey
Oral Session 4
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Room 7A
English
Appalachian State
University
Byrne, Lauren
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 37
Room 1
Engineering - Biological &
Agricultural
North Carolina State
University
Cahill, Vincent
Oral Session 4
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Caminiti, Vincent
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 57
Room 1
Physics - Atomic &
Molecular
University of North
Carolina - Asheville
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Carr, Lindsey
Oral Session 4
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Room 4
Economics
Salem College
Carrington,
Nichelle'Le
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 28
Room 1
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
North Carolina A&T
State University
Carter-Stanley, Ryan
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 6
Room 1
Psychology
East Carolina
University
Casimir, Ernst
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 12
Room 1
Psychology
Duke University
Casper, Joshua
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 16
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Pfeiffer University
Chemmanam, Reuben
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 8A
Statistics
Appalachian State
University
Chen, Xinyi
Oral Session 4
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Room 3
Biomedical Sciences
NC School of Science
and Mathematics
Cheng, Ge
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 6
Room 1
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
Fayetteville State
University
Cheruiyot, Maureen
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 27
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
Fayetteville State
University
Cheruiyot, Maureen
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 27
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
Fayetteville State
University
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Chhabria, Raveena
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 41
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
North Carolina State
University
Chodavadia, Parth
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 4
Room 1
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
Duke University
Clanet, David
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 8B
Arts - Visual
East Carolina
University
Clark, Kalysha
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 36
Room 1
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Cleveringa, David
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 3
Psychology
Methodist University
Cochran, Antony
Oral Session 2
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Room 6
Environmental Sciences
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Cohn, Rachel
Oral Session 3
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
NC School of Science
and Mathematics
Cole, Jacob
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 46
Room 1
Physics - Biophysics
Appalachian State
University
Cole, Kendyl
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 14
Room 1
Psychology
Meredith College
Cole, Logan
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 29
Room 1
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
East Carolina
University
225 | P a g e
Coleman, Antwoine
Oral Session 4
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Room 8B
History
Saint Augustine's
University
Collins, Katherine
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 12
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Pfeiffer University
Colucci, Rocco
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 40
Room 1
Food, Nutrition, and
Bioprocessing Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Comte, Taylor
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 55
Room 1
Engineering - Biomedical
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Cook, Ryan
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 27
Room 1
Chemistry - Analytical
Appalachian State
University
Cooper, Megan
Oral Session 3
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Room 7A
English
Appalachian State
University
Correia, Jillian
Oral Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Room 7B
Education
Wake Forest
University
Corsi, James
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 7B
Education
Appalachian State
University
Courtney, Taylor
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 44
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
North Carolina State
University
Covington, Kendall
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 67
Room 1
Education
Duke University
226 | P a g e
Craigle, Joe
Oral Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Room 5
Physics - General
Appalachian State
University
Crockett, Erica
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 26
Room 1
Chemistry - Analytical
Fayetteville State
University
Crockett, Erica
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 49
Room 1
Chemistry - General
Fayetteville State
University
Crockett, Erica
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 32
Room 1
Chemistry - Nanoscience
Fayetteville State
University
Cromer, Dylan
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 45
Room 1
Physics - Astrophysics
University of North
Carolina - Asheville
Curran, Tayla
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 8A
English
High Point University
Dalton, Leslee
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 45
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
Darden, Patrick
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 7
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
East Carolina
University
Daubert, James
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 36
Room 1
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
North Carolina State
University
227 | P a g e
Davis, Brandon
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 18
Room 1
Communication
Fayetteville State
University
Davis, William
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 40
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
de los Reyes, Mithi
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 56
Room 1
Physics - Condensed Matter
(Electronic Materials,
North Carolina State
Optics, Soft Matter,
University
Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
Deal, Christopher
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 47
Room 1
Physics - General
Appalachian State
University
Deanhardt, Bryson
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 70
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
North Carolina State
University
DeFoor, William
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 63
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Dei-Tumi, Sharon
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 3
Sociology
Greensboro College
Delaney, Cory
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 39
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
Denman, Joseph
Oral Session 2
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Room 5
Biomedical Sciences
Appalachian State
University
228 | P a g e
Denzongpa, Kunga
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 3
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
Guilford College
Dewitt, Domelia
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 29
Room 1
Chemistry - Inorganic
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Dickerson, Scott
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 49
Room 1
Physics - General
Appalachian State
University
Dickey, Michael
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 42
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
Dienst, James
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 60
Room 1
Physics - Biophysics
Appalachian State
University
Dolecheck, Cameren
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 63
Room 1
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
North Carolina State
University
Dorrell, Sarah
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 8A
Mathematics
High Point University
Dosso, Beverly
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 33
Room 1
Chemistry - Physical
Winston-Salem State
University
Doyle, Brooke
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 7B
Education
East Carolina
University
229 | P a g e
Dula, Tyler
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 59
Room 1
Physics - Atomic &
Molecular
Appalachian State
University
Dwelle, Stacia
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 9
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Elrahal, Farrah
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 13
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Elsayed, Nourhan
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 11
Room 1
Psychology
Duke University
Engert, Stefanie
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 66
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
Duke University
Espinoza, Vernon
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 5
Biomedical Sciences
Appalachian State
University
Esswein, Kraig
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 11
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Appalachian State
University
Eudy, Melissa
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 31
Room 1
Social Work
North Carolina State
University
Feng, Emily
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 66
Room 1
Education
Duke University
230 | P a g e
Fennell, Ian
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 40
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Fenton, Erin
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 27
Room 1
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
North Carolina State
University
Ferguson, Caitlin
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 31
Room 1
Chemistry - Materials
High Point University
Fernandes, Samuela
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 58
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Ferrer-Lorenzo, Edgar
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 60
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
Duke University
Fitz-Henley II, John
Oral Session 4
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Room 5
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
NC School of Science
and Mathematics
Ford, Miche
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 33
Room 1
Chemistry - Physical
Winston-Salem State
University
Foster, Darren
Oral Session 3
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
Guilford College
Fowle, Caroline
Oral Session 4
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Fowler, Alison
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 59
Room 1
Marine Sciences
North Carolina State
University
231 | P a g e
Fowler, Ashley
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 36
Room 1
Mathematics
Fayetteville State
University
Francis, John
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 7A
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A&T
State University
Fraz, Faiza
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 15
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Fritz, Samuel
Oral Session 4
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Room 5
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
Appalachian State
University
Fry , Alix
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 6
Room 1
Psychology
East Carolina
University
Frye, Paul
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 58
Room 1
Marine Sciences
Catawba College
Frye, Steven
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 52
Room 1
Physics - General
University of North
Carolina - Asheville
Fuller, Christopher
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 42
Room 1
Earth Science
Appalachian State
University
Fuss, William
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 5
Engineering - Materials
North Carolina State
University
Ganapathi, Avinash
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
232 | P a g e
Gerard, Ray
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 3
Sociology
Methodist University
Giggey, Andrew
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 53
Room 1
Physics - General
University of North
Carolina - Asheville
Gilreath, Jeremy
Oral Session 3
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Room 3
Philosophy & Religious
Studies
Guilford College
Giovannetti, Melanie
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 7A
Accounting
Methodist University
Glaze, Kristin
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 42
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
Gomez, Ismael
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 12
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Nash Community
College
Gordon, Ahmar
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
Appalachian State
University
Goscinski, Margaret
Oral Session 4
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Room 4
Economics
Salem College
Gotsch, Hannah
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 36
Room 1
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
North Carolina State
University
Grant, Nacole
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 52
Room 1
Biological Sciences Toxicology
Fayetteville State
University
233 | P a g e
Gray, Tiara
Gregory, Wren
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 7A
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 52
Room 1
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A&T
State University
Physics - Condensed Matter
(Electronic Materials,
University of North
Optics, Soft Matter,
Carolina - Asheville
Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
Griffin, Jordan
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 57
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
East Carolina
University
Grooms, Stephen
Oral Session 2
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Room 7B
Atmospheric Sciences
Guilford College
Guevara, Wendy
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 25
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
Guin, Jeffery
Oral Session 3
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
Appalachian State
University
Guy, Jamari
Oral Session 1
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Room 7A
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A&T
State University
Hall, Mia
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 18
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Elizabeth City State
University
Hamilton, Matthew
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 2
Room 1
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
234 | P a g e
Hamilton, Matthew
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 3
Room 1
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Hatcher, Jessica
Oral Session 1
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Room 7B
Education
North Carolina State
University
Hayes, Erin
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 7
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Hayward, Lillian
Oral Session 3
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Room 8B
Anthropology
Guilford College
He, Yu Ting
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 20
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
Duke University
Heimer, Heidi
Oral Session 4
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Room 5
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Heinen, Laura
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 45
Room 1
Earth Science
Appalachian State
University
Henderson, Kyle
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 6
Environmental Sciences
Catawba College
Henry, Charles
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 20
Room 1
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A&T
State University
Henson, Ashlyn
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 16
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Appalachian State
University
235 | P a g e
Herbert, Emily
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 15
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Pfeiffer University
Herhold, Leigh
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 66
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
Hernandez, Nathan
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
Appalachian State
University
HernandezEncarnacion, Luisa
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 14
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Fayetteville State
University
Hinnant, Taylor
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 8
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
East Carolina
University
Hoang, Tammy
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 24
Room 1
Chemistry - Analytical
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Hockett, Rachel
Exhibits
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Room 1
Arts - Visual
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Hoffmann, William
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 56
Room 1
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
North Carolina State
University
Hoover, Megan
Oral Session 4
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
Appalachian State
University
236 | P a g e
Horne, Jalisa
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 38
Room 1
Food, Nutrition, and
Bioprocessing Sciences
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Howerton, Victoria
Oral Session 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Room 3
Philosophy & Religious
Studies
Appalachian State
University
Hoxie, Adam
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 19
Room 1
Communication
Wake Forest
University
Hu, Michael
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 41
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
Duke University
Huang, Brendan
Oral Session 4
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Room 5
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
Duke University
Hughes, Jasmine
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 7
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
East Carolina
University
Hutchison, Tre'Sean
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 51
Room 1
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
Fayetteville State
University
Hutton, Nicholas
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
Guilford Technical
Community College
Ikegwu, Kelechi
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 65
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina A&T
State University
Islam, Nashmil
Oral Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Room 6
Environmental Sciences
Appalachian State
University
237 | P a g e
Isley, Khristin
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 3
Psychology
Pfeiffer University
Iusupova, Aiperi
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 35
Room 1
Chemistry - Physical
Guilford College
Iyer, Aruna
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 26
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
Jadi, Othmane
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 6
Environmental Sciences
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Jaimes Landa,
Elizabeth
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 46
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Meredith College
Jakeway, Eileen
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 8B
Arts - Performing
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
James, Payton
Exhibits
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Room 1
Arts - Visual
University of North
Carolina - Asheville
Janes, Lukas
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 8
Room 1
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
Pfeiffer University
Jefferson, Tori
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 59
Room 1
Marine Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Jensen, Stephanie
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 22
Room 1
Chemistry - General
Duke University
238 | P a g e
Jeri, Henry
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 10
Room 1
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
East Carolina
University
Jobe, Luke
Oral Session 4
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
Appalachian State
University
Johnson, Christina
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 49
Room 1
Physics - Biophysics
Appalachian State
University
Johnson, Dana
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 41
Room 1
Statistics
Wake Forest
University
Johnson, Mary
Oral Session 4
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Johnson, Sarah
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 18
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Jones, Justin
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 47
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
Saint Augustineâ€™s
University
Joshi, Gauri
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 7
Room 1
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
Enloe High School
Kamara, Hamid
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 32
Room 1
Chemistry - Nanoscience
Fayetteville State
University
239 | P a g e
Kaneria, Krupa
Oral Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Room 6
Environmental Sciences
Appalachian State
University
Kaouk, Ghallia
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 61
Room 1
Physics - Biophysics
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Kapur, Nick
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 42
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
Keeler, Devon
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 5
Biological Sciences Toxicology
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Keener, Glenn
Oral Session 3
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
Appalachian State
University
Kellam, Jessica
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 7A
Business
Guilford College
Kemburu, Pranav
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 31
Room 1
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
NC School of Science
and Mathematics
Kerr, Stephen
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 27
Room 1
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
North Carolina State
University
Kerschner, Kelly
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 5
Room 1
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
East Carolina
University
Keziah, Meagan
Exhibits
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Room 1
English
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
240 | P a g e
Klapheke, Brandon
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 69
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
North Carolina State
University
Knoechel, Sydney
Oral Session 4
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Room 4
Economics
High Point University
Knudsen, Camille
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 8B
Arts - Visual
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Koch, Mallory
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 22
Room 1
History
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Koerner, Ellen
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 36
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
North Carolina State
University
Koucheki, Ashkon
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 9
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Krintz, Ian
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 7B
Atmospheric Sciences
Appalachian State
University
Ksor, Vung
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 38
Room 1
Food, Nutrition, and
Bioprocessing Sciences
Guilford College
Kuan, Hannah
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 68
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
Kuo, Molly
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 39
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
Duke University
241 | P a g e
Lakshminarayanan,
Divya
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 68
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
Lampe, Rob
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 56
Room 1
Marine Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Landrigan, Kyle
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 17
Room 1
Psychology
Pfeiffer University
Lane, Benjamin
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 26
Room 1
International Studies
North Carolina State
University
Langley, Mark
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 4
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
North Carolina
Central University
Latta, Jonathan
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 12
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Lauzier, David
Oral Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
North Carolina
Central University
Lawson, Stephanie
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 40
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Ledinh, Justin
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
242 | P a g e
Lee, Charlotte
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 64
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
Duke University
Lee, Evyn
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 49
Room 1
Physics - Biophysics
Appalachian State
University
Lee, Michael
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 57
Room 1
Engineering - Biomedical
Duke University
Lee, Taylor
Oral Session 4
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Room 8B
History
Pfeiffer University
Leonard, Kaitlyn
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 5
Room 1
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
Wingate University
Lim, Hui Yi Grace
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 34
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
Duke University
Lin, Hal
Oral Session 1
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Room 8A
Mathematics
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Liu, Caroline
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 30
Room 1
Chemistry - Inorganic
NC School of Science
and Mathematics
Lloyd, Justin
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 37
Room 1
Engineering - Biological &
Agricultural
North Carolina State
University
243 | P a g e
Locklear, Rayshawn
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 37
Room 1
Mathematics
Fayetteville State
University
Long, Katelyn
Oral Session 2
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Room 3
Psychology
High Point University
Long, Rebecca
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 43
Room 1
Earth Science
Appalachian State
University
Luca, Sarah
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 15
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Asheville
Lucioni, Tomas
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 62
Room 1
Physics - Biophysics
Wake Forest
University
Luo, Andrew
Oral Session 4
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Room 3
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
Duke University
Macias, Amanda
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 21
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
Fayetteville State
University
Mackenzie, Erika
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 14
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Pfeiffer University
Maiorana-Boutilier,
Abigail
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 7B
Earth Science
East Carolina
University
Mallory, Marquita
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM – 12:00PM
Poster 38
Room1
Accounting
Fayetteville State
University
244 | P a g e
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Mandarino, Alexander
Poster 51
Room 1
Physics - General
Appalachian State
University
Manuh, Lesley
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 5
Biomedical Sciences
Guilford College
Marr-Madariaga,
Silvana
Oral Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Room 3
Sociology
Guilford College
Martin, Tyler
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 25
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
East Carolina
University
Martin, Tyler
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 23
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
East Carolina
University
Martz, William
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 24
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
North Carolina State
University
Mattison, C.
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 18
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
Nash Community
College
Mayo, Laura
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 50
Room 1
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
Oregon State
University
Mays, Amanda
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 21
Room 1
Chemistry - General
Winston-Salem State
University
245 | P a g e
Mbye, Kebba
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 59
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
McDaniel, Katie
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 65
Room 1
Engineering - Materials
Winston-Salem State
University
McDaniel, Tha'Mes
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 41
Room 1
Agricultural Sciences &
Economics
North Carolina A&T
State University
McMinn, Kaitlyn
Oral Session 3
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Room 5
Biological Sciences Toxicology
North Carolina
Central University
McNeil, Anastassja
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 65
Room 1
Engineering - Materials
Winston-Salem State
University
McNeill, Rachel
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 63
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Medina-Ortiz, Ilza
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 14
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Fayetteville State
University
Medlin, Elizabeth
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 19
Room 1
Political Science
North Carolina State
University
Medoza, Brian
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 49
Room 1
Chemistry - General
Fayetteville State
University
246 | P a g e
Michelin, Charles
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 3
Room 1
Business
Queens University of
Charlotte
Middlebrooks,
Rodney
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 7A
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A&T
State University
Migirditch, Benjamin
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 50
Room 1
Physics - General
Appalachian State
University
Migirditch, Sam
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 55
Room 1
Physics - Condensed Matter
(Electronic Materials,
Appalachian State
Optics, Soft Matter,
University
Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
Milak, Amir
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 22
Room 1
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina State
University
Miles, J'Lisa
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 30
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina A&T
State University
Mitchell, Loressa
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 17
Room 1
English
Guilford Technical
Community College
Mitchell, Thomas
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 35
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Mlo, Branda
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 38
Room 1
Food, Nutrition, and
Bioprocessing Sciences
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
247 | P a g e
Moeller, Bianca
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 6
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Pfeiffer University
Moeller, Bianca
Oral Session 1
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Room 6
Environmental Sciences
Pfeiffer University
Mohiuddin, Farah
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 18
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Mooney, Shayna
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 49
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
East Carolina
University
Moore, Douglas
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 58
Room 1
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
North Carolina State
University
Moran-Estrada, ,
Elvira
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 3
Psychology
Pfeiffer University
Morris, Brianna
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 5
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
Elizabeth City State
University
Morris, Jared
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 40
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
Mostafavi, Sina
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 52
Room 1
Engineering - Biomedical
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Munyak, Nathen
Oral Session 3
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Room 4
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
East Carolina
University
248 | P a g e
Murray, Dakota
Oral Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Room 8A
Mathematics
Appalachian State
University
Murray, Dakota
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 7B
Education
Appalachian State
University
Musselwhite, Molly
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 9
Room 1
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Nama, Rohith
Oral Session 1
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Room 7A
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A&T
State University
Nasrallah, Russell
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 44
Room 1
Earth Science
Appalachian State
University
Nauert, Elliot
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 15
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Asheville
Ndlovu, Tebogo
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 51
Room 1
Engineering - Biomedical
Saint Augustineâ€™s
University
Neff, Victoria
Oral Session 1
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Room 8B
Arts - Performing
East Carolina
University
Nelson , Kaleb
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 7A
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A&T
State University
Nentrup, Lura
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 8A
English
Appalachian State
University
249 | P a g e
Neville, Justine
Poster Session 2
11:00 - 12:00 PM
Poster 10
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Newhouse, Paige
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 23
Room 1
History
Duke University
Newton, KayLynn
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 17
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Meredith College
Nguyen, Kim
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 55
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
North Carolina State
University
Nichols, Katie
Oral Session 4
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Room 3
Biomedical Sciences
Greensboro College
Nicolle, Kevin
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 25
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
East Carolina
University
Nicolle, Kevin
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 23
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
East Carolina
University
Nieshe, Lory
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 3
Psychology
Methodist University
Noel, Kimberly
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 23
Room 1
Chemistry - Analytical
Appalachian State
University
250 | P a g e
Oduor, Allan
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 62
Room 1
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
Wake Technical
Community College
Oliver, Dan Thomas
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 68
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
Ollison, Jeffrey
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 61
Room 1
Earth Science
North Carolina State
University
O'Neill, Frank
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 17
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Appalachian State
University
Orders, Tanner
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 5
Biomedical Sciences
Appalachian State
University
Osborne, Shannon
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 2
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Owens, Crystal
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 5
Engineering - Materials
Duke University
Page, Ashle
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 33
Room 1
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
North Carolina State
University
Parker, Tyree
Oral Session 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
East Carolina
University
Parrish II, Charles
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 37
Room 1
Engineering - Biological &
Agricultural
North Carolina State
University
251 | P a g e
Patel, Sagar
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 37
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
Duke University
Patolia, Harsh
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 48
Room 1
Physics - Biophysics
Wake Forest
University
Patterson, Sarah
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 7A
English
High Point University
Patterson, Walter
Oral Session 4
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Patterson, Walter
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 40
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Patteson, Crystal
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 49
Room 1
Physics - General
Appalachian State
University
Paul, Joseph
Oral Session 4
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Genetics
East Carolina
University
Pavlusik, Michaela
Oral Session 1
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Room 3
Sociology
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
PB, Mishal
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 34
Room 1
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
North Carolina State
University
Pearson, Allyssa
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 39
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
252 | P a g e
Peddada, Teja
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
Peeples, Camille
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 30
Room 1
Social Work
Duke University
Peller, Joseph
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 54
Room 1
Physics - General
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Peller, Joseph
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 59
Room 1
Physics - Atomic &
Molecular
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Pettiford, Sherrell
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 7B
Agricultural Sciences &
Economics
North Carolina A&T
State University
Philemon, Austin
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 8B
Arts - Performing
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Phillips, Olivia
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 7
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Piedrahita, Lucas
Oral Session 3
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
Appalachian State
University
Pierce, Jessica
Oral Session 4
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
Appalachian State
University
Pinegar, Kyle
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 40
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
253 | P a g e
Pittman, Gabrielle
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 38
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
North Carolina State
University
Placentra, Tori
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 16
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Appalachian State
University
Podolsky, Igor
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 59
Room 1
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
North Carolina State
University
Ponnusamy, Vikram
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 31
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
Duke University
Prabhu, Sanjana
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 39
Room 1
Food, Nutrition, and
Bioprocessing Sciences
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Pratyush, Pavan
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
Purcell, Victoria
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 3
Psychology
Pfeiffer University
Purvis, Rebecca
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 53
Room 1
Biological Sciences Toxicology
North Carolina State
University
Quah, Jessica
Oral Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Room 8B
Arts - Performing
Greensboro College
Quran, Layla
Oral Session 3
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Room 8B
Anthropology
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
254 | P a g e
Ransom, Timothy
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 7B
Education
Appalachian State
University
Ratzloff, Aleksander
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
Appalachian State
University
Ratzloff, Aleksander
Oral Session 2
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
Appalachian State
University
Reece, Brittany
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 8
Room 1
Psychology
Fayetteville State
University
Region, Krista
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 45
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Appalachian State
University
Register, Alan
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 26
Room 1
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
East Carolina
University
Rekeibe, Cristina
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 3
Psychology
East Carolina
University
Richardson, Meredith
Oral Session 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Room 7A
English
Wake Forest
University
Rickard, Ashlyn
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 52
Room 1
Riemann, Johannes
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 4
Room 1
Physics - Condensed Matter
(Electronic Materials,
University of North
Optics, Soft Matter,
Carolina - Asheville
Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
Business
Queens University of
Charlotte
255 | P a g e
Rightmyer, Tori
Oral Session 3
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Rikard, Stephanie
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 61
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Riley, Holly
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 1
Room 1
Arts - Performing
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Riley, Jevonne
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 9
Room 1
Psychology
Fayetteville State
University
Riley, Zachary
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 43
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Wake Forest
University
Ritchie, Alyssa
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 42
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Robbins, Jacob
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 51
Room 1
Physics - Nuclear, Particle,
Atomic, & Molecular
North Carolina State
University
Robinson, Forrest
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 6
Environmental Sciences
Chowan University
Ross, Margaret
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 25
Room 1
Chemistry - Analytical
East Carolina
University
256 | P a g e
Roten, Dustin
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 59
Room 1
Physics - Atomic &
Molecular
Appalachian State
University
Ruckelshaus, John
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 3
Philosophy & Religious
Studies
Duke University
Rumble, Blake
Oral Session 3
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Room 5
Biological Sciences Toxicology
East Carolina
University
Ryan, Allyson
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 19
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
North Carolina State
University
Rybacki, Harry
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Salisbury, Alexandria
Oral Session 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Room 8B
Anthropology
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Samir, Sophia
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 67
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
East Carolina
University
Sampson, Julia
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 40
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Sanders, Kiffinae
Oral Session 1
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Room 7A
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A&T
State University
Sankar, Akshay
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 68
Room 1
Biological Sciences Neurobiology and Behavior
Duke University
257 | P a g e
Sankar, Akshay
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
Scardino, Dianne
Oral Session 4
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Room 7A
English
Appalachian State
University
Schanilec, Cole
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 3
Room 1
Biological Sciences Anatomy and Physiology
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Scher, Alfred
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 49
Room 1
Physics - General
Appalachian State
University
Schettler, Gunnar
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 63
Room 1
Physics - Biophysics
Appalachian State
University
Scott, Sara
Oral Session 4
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Room 7A
English
Appalachian State
University
Scurlock, Allen
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 46
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
East Carolina
University
Seegars, Michael
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 6
Room 1
Psychology
East Carolina
University
Sells, Samantha
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 20
Room 1
Political Science
Wake Forest
University
Seo, Brian
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 25
Room 1
International Studies
North Carolina State
University
258 | P a g e
Shah, Priyang
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 2
Room 1
Economics
Duke University
Sharma, Shiva
Oral Session 2
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Room 7A
Business
Methodist University
Sheng, Yihui
Oral Session 2
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Room 8B
Foreign Languages &
Literature
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Sher, Mehr
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 8B
International Studies
North Carolina State
University
Sherman, Sam
Poster Session 4
2:45 - 3:00 PM
Poster 1
Room 1
Economics
Wake Forest
University
Shieh, Alice
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 22
Room 1
Chemistry - General
Duke University
Shipley, Aubrey
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 54
Room 1
Physics - General
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Shuffler, Scott
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 7B
Education
Appalachian State
University
Siebens, Ryan
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 50
Room 1
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
Guilford College
259 | P a g e
Siever, Joshua
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 39
Room 1
Statistics
North Carolina State
University
Siu, Lek
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 38
Room 1
Food, Nutrition, and
Bioprocessing Sciences
Guilford College
Slack, Rachel
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 2
Room 1
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
Pfeiffer University
Slate, Jamison
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 19
Room 1
Chemistry - General
Appalachian State
University
Sludds, Amelia
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 21
Room 1
History
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Smedley, Aaron
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
Guilford College
Smith, Chelsea
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 3
Psychology
Methodist University
Smith, Jaclyn
Oral Session 4
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Room 8A
Chemistry - Biochemistry
North Carolina State
University
Smith, Linda
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 14
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Fayetteville State
University
Smith, Linda
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 51
Room 1
Biological Sciences Zoology and Animal
Sciences
Fayetteville State
University
260 | P a g e
Smith, Mackenzie
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 8B
Arts - Visual
East Carolina
University
Smith, William
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 67
Room 1
Statistics
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Spencer, Cody
Oral Session 3
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Room 3
Philosophy & Religious
Studies
East Carolina
University
Spinks, Kalen
Oral Session 1
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Room 5
Engineering - Materials
North Carolina A&T
State University
Springthorpe, Sarah
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 47
Room 1
Chemistry - General
Salem College
Steele, Briana
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 7A
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A & T
State University
Stegall, Jabari
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 30
Room 1
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
North Carolina A&T
State University
Stemkovski, Michael
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 6
Environmental Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Stiers, Erin
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 29
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
Pfeiffer University
Stiers, Erin
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 10
Room 1
Psychology
Pfeiffer University
261 | P a g e
Stilwell, Leah
Oral Session 3
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Room 8A
Chemistry - Analytical
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Stinson, Lindsay
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 3
Psychology
Methodist University
Stocks, Justine
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 65
Room 1
Atmospheric Sciences
Appalachian State
University
Strawbridge, Laura
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 43
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
Stroman, Kyndreshia
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 8A
Mathematics
Fayetteville State
University
Subdias, Libni
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 40
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Subramanian,
Goutham
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 6
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
Sugar, Aaron
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 62
Room 1
Earth Science
North Carolina State
University
Synger, Ashley
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 11
Room 1
Psychology
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Szymanski, Amanda
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 14
Room 1
Psychology
High Point University
262 | P a g e
Tahira, Adeem
Oral Session 3
2:30 - 2:45 PM
Room 8A
Chemistry - Materials
East Carolina
University
Talib, Maliha
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 28
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
North Carolina State
University
Taylor, Jared
Oral Session 1
10:15 - 10:30 AM
Room 4
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
North Carolina
Central University
Therriault, William
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 68
Room 1
Engineering - Materials
North Carolina State
University
Thomas, Jake
Oral Session 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Room 5
Biological Sciences Toxicology
East Carolina
University
Thomas, Linda
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 29
Room 1
Social Work
Fayetteville State
University
Thornton, Steven
Oral Session 4
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Room 8A
Engineering - Civil,
Construction &
Environmental
North Carolina State
University
Thrower, Christina
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 13
Room 1
Psychology
North Carolina State
University
Thuor, Erica
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 25
Room 1
Chemistry - Analytical
East Carolina
University
Tiettmeyer, Jessica
Oral Session 3
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Room 8A
Chemistry - General
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
263 | P a g e
Tomar, Garima
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 54
Room 1
Engineering - Biomedical
NC School of Science
and Mathematics
Townsend, Kionda
Oral Session 1
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Room 7A
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A&T
State University
Tracey, Skye
Oral Session 2
10:45 - 11:00 AM
Room 6
Environmental Sciences
Appalachian State
University
Tsun, Ian
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 42
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Tufts, Jonathan
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 61
Room 1
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
North Carolina State
University
Tyrlik, Paul
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 28
Room 1
Chemistry - Analytical
North Carolina State
University
Uwayo, Dianne
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 33
Room 1
Sociology
Wake Forest
University
Van Allen, Arieana
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 48
Room 1
Chemistry - General
University of North
Carolina - Pembroke
Vanderburg,
Katherine
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 11
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Pfeiffer University
264 | P a g e
Vickery, Jessica
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 33
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
Fayetteville State
University
Vining, Abigail
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 7B
Education
East Carolina
University
Vinson, Alex
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 37
Room 1
Engineering - Biological &
Agricultural
North Carolina State
University
Vinton, Daniel
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 48
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
Wingate University
Volstad, Samuel
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 50
Room 1
Physics - General
Appalachian State
University
Vummalaneni, Rupa
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 20
Room 1
Chemistry - General
University of North
Carolina - Greensboro
Waddell, Christopher
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 64
Room 1
Atmospheric Sciences
Appalachian State
University
Wang, Katherine
Oral Session 4
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Room 8A
Chemistry - Biochemistry
NC School of Science
and Mathematics
Watlington, Cedric
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 7A
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A & T
State University
Watson, Jamie
Oral Session 4
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Room 7A
English
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
265 | P a g e
Watson, Jed
Oral Session 1
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Room 8B
Arts - Visual
East Carolina
University
Watson, Jeffrey
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 44
Room 1
Biological Sciences Microbiology
Pfeiffer University
Weaver, Sophie
Oral Session 3
2:00 - 2:15 PM
Room 7A
English
Appalachian State
University
Webster, Joshua
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 23
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
East Carolina
University
Webster, Joshua
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 25
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
East Carolina
University
Wehbie, Nicole
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 37
Room 1
Biological Sciences Genetics
North Carolina State
University
Wickman, Mikayla
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 67
Room 1
Education
Duke University
Wiedenheft, Kris
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 54
Room 1
Engineering - Mechanical &
Aerospace
North Carolina A&T
State University
Wiggins, Raymond
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 50
Room 1
Chemistry - General
Livingstone College
266 | P a g e
Williams, Dylan
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 58
Room 1
Physics - Atomic &
Molecular
University of North
Carolina - Asheville
Williams, Joshua
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 5
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
Elizabeth City State
University
Williams, Michael
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 34
Room 1
Chemistry - Physical
North Carolina State
University
Wilson, Caleb
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 60
Room 1
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
North Carolina State
University
Wimbish, Robert
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 35
Room 1
Engineering - Chemical &
Biomolecular
North Carolina State
University
Winters, Leigh
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 32
Room 1
Sociology
Wake Forest
University
Withrow, Maria
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 21
Room 1
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina State
University
Woodard, Kaitly
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 15
Room 1
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Appalachian State
University
Woodward, Rebecca
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 28
Room 1
Anthropology
North Carolina State
University
267 | P a g e
Wright, Emily
Oral Session 4
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Room 8A
Chemistry - Biochemistry
Wake Forest
University
Wright, Mariah
Oral Session 2
11:15 - 11:30 AM
Room 3
Psychology
Methodist University
Wyatt, Meghan
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 62
Room 1
Biomedical Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Wynn, Daran
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 20
Room 1
Engineering - Industrial &
Systems
North Carolina A&T
State University
Xiong, Grace
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 67
Room 1
Engineering - Materials
NC School of Science
and Mathematics
Yammine, Andrea
Poster Session 3
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Poster 57
Room 1
Marine Sciences
University of North
Carolina - Wilmington
Yanez, Cecilia
Oral Session 2
11:30 - 11:45 AM
Room 8B
International Studies
Appalachian State
University
Yangkin, Decemae
Oral Session 3
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Room 7B
Political Science
Appalachian State
University
York, Joshua
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 8
Room 1
Environmental Sciences
Catawba College
Young, Christina
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 49
Room 1
Chemistry - General
Fayetteville State
University
268 | P a g e
Young, Danielle
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 3
Room 1
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Yow, Ashley
Poster Session 1
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Poster 1
Room 1
Biological Sciences - Plant
Sciences
North Carolina State
University
Zarcone, Kaitlin
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 64
Room 1
Engineering - Electrical &
Computer
University of North
Carolina - Charlotte
Zhang, Jimmy
Exhibits
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Room 1
English
University of North
Carolina - Chapel Hill
Zimmerman, Kayla
Poster Session 4
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Poster 54
Room 1
Zsido, Alyssa
Poster Session 2
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Poster 13
Room 1
Physics - Condensed Matter
(Electronic Materials,
Appalachian State
Optics, Soft Matter,
University
Synchrotron,
Theory/Computation)
Environmental Sciences
Meredith College
269 | P a g e
270 | P a g e
By The Numbers
Total Presentations :405
Total Institutions Presenting: 34
Appalachian State
University
55
Catawba College
3
Chowan University
1
North Carolina A&T State
University
North Carolina Central
University
North Carolina State
University
14
4
76
Duke University
27
Pfeiffer University
19
East Carolina University
31
Queens University of Charlotte
2
Elizabeth City State
University
3
Saint Augustine's University
5
Enloe High School
1
Salem College
4
Fayetteville State
University
21
Greensboro College
Guilford College
3
14
University of North Carolina Asheville
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
University of North Carolina Charlotte
University of North Carolina Greensboro
University of North Carolina Pembroke
University of North Carolina Wilmington
9
11
16
Guilford Technical
Community College
3
High Point University
7
Livingstone College
1
Meredith College
5
Wake Forest University
Methodist University
5
Wake Technical Community
College
1
3
Wingate University
2
9
Winston-Salem State
University
3
Nash Community
College
NC School of Science
and Mathematics
13
8
14
12
271 | P a g e
Appalachian State University – Office of Student Research
Appalachian State University – Summer Ventures in Science and Math
Duke university
East Carolina University
Livingstone College
Meredith College
MetLife
North Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities
North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics
North Carolina Space Grant
North Carolina State University – Office of Research
North Carolina State University - Office of Undergraduate Research
RTI International
Summer Ventures in Science and Mathematics
University of North Carolina General Administration
University of North Carolina - Charlotte
University of North Carolina – Greensboro
University of North Carolina - Wilmington
272 | P a g e
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