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 10 | P a g e 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 11 | P a g e 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 Circumstances— 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 13 | P a g e 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 Wine’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 14 | P a g e 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 15 | P a g e 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 US’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 & China’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 16 | P a g e 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 17 | P a g e 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 18 | P a g e 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 19 | P a g e POSTER & EXHIBIT PRESENTATIONS LISTED BY SESSION 20 | P a g e 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 22 | P a g e 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 23 | P a g e 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? 24 | P a g e 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 36 | P a g e 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? 37 | P a g e 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 38 | P a g e ABSTRACT LISTING ALPHABETICAL BY LEAD STUDENT LAST NAME 39 | P a g e 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. 40 | P a g e 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 41 | P a g e 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 42 | P a g e 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 43 | P a g e 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 44 | P a g e 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 45 | P a g e 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. 46 | P a g e 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. 47 | P a g e 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. 48 | P a g e 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. 49 | P a g e 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. 50 | P a g e 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 51 | P a g e 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 52 | P a g e 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 53 | P a g e 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 54 | P a g e 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 55 | P a g e 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. 56 | P a g e 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 57 | P a g e 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. 58 | P a g e 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. 59 | P a g e 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. 60 | P a g e 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. 61 | P a g e 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 62 | P a g e 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. 63 | P a g e 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 64 | P a g e 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 65 | P a g e 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. 66 | P a g e 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. 67 | P a g e 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 68 | P a g e 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 69 | P a g e 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 70 | P a g e 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 71 | P a g e 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. 72 | P a g e 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. 73 | P a g e 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. 74 | P a g e 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. 75 | P a g e 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 76 | P a g e 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 77 | P a g e 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 78 | P a g e 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. 79 | P a g e 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 80 | P a g e 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. 81 | P a g e 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 82 | P a g e 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. 83 | P a g e 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. 84 | P a g e 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, 85 | P a g e 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 86 | P a g e 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 87 | P a g e 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, 88 | P a g e 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 89 | P a g e 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 90 | P a g e 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 91 | P a g e 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 92 | P a g e 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. 93 | P a g e 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. 94 | P a g e 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 95 | P a g e 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 96 | P a g e 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. 97 | P a g e 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. 98 | P a g e 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 99 | P a g e 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, 100 | P a g e 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 101 | P a g e 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. 102 | P a g e 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 103 | P a g e 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. 104 | P a g e 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. 105 | P a g e 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. 106 | P a g e 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. 107 | P a g e 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. 108 | P a g e 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. 109 | P a g e 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. 110 | P a g e 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. 111 | P a g e 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. 112 | P a g e 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. 113 | P a g e 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. 114 | P a g e 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 115 | P a g e 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 116 | P a g e 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 117 | P a g e 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 118 | P a g e 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 119 | P a g e 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. 120 | P a g e 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 121 | P a g e 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 122 | P a g e 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. 123 | P a g e 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. 124 | P a g e 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. 125 | P a g e 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 126 | P a g e 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 127 | P a g e 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 128 | P a g e 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. 129 | P a g e 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. 130 | P a g e 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 131 | P a g e 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 132 | P a g e 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. 133 | P a g e 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 134 | P a g e 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. 135 | P a g e 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. 136 | P a g e 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. 137 | P a g e 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 138 | P a g e 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. 139 | P a g e 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. 140 | P a g e 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. 141 | P a g e 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 142 | P a g e 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). 143 | P a g e 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 144 | P a g e 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. 145 | P a g e 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 146 | P a g e 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 147 | P a g e 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. 148 | P a g e 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. 149 | P a g e 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 150 | P a g e 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 25 151 | P a g e 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. 152 | P a g e 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 153 | P a g e 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 154 | P a g e 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. 155 | P a g e 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 156 | P a g e 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 157 | P a g e 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. 158 | P a g e 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. 159 | P a g e 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 160 | P a g e 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. 161 | P a g e 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 162 | P a g e 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 163 | P a g e 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 164 | P a g e 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 165 | P a g e 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. 166 | P a g e 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 167 | P a g e 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 168 | P a g e 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 169 | P a g e (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. 170 | P a g e 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 171 | P a g e 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. 172 | P a g e 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. 173 | P a g e 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. 174 | P a g e 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. 175 | P a g e 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 176 | P a g e 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, 177 | P a g e 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 178 | P a g e 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. 179 | P a g e 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 180 | P a g e 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. 181 | P a g e 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. 182 | P a g e 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 183 | P a g e 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 184 | P a g e 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, 185 | P a g e 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 186 | P a g e 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 187 | P a g e 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 188 | P a g e 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 189 | P a g e 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 190 | P a g e 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 191 | P a g e 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 192 | P a g e 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 193 | P a g e 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. 194 | P a g e 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 195 | P a g e 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. 196 | P a g e 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. 197 | P a g e 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. 198 | P a g e 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 199 | P a g e 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 200 | P a g e 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 201 | P a g e 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. 202 | P a g e 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 203 | P a g e 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. 204 | P a g e 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. 205 | P a g e 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 206 | P a g e 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 207 | P a g e 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. 208 | P a g e 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 209 | P a g e 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. 210 | P a g e 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 211 | P a g e (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 212 | P a g e 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. 213 | P a g e 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, 214 | P a g e 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. 215 | P a g e INDEX OF ALL STUDENT PRESENTERS LISTED ALPHABETICALLY 216 | P a g e 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 217 | P a g e 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 218 | P a g e 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 219 | P a g e 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 220 | P a g e 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 221 | P a g e 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 222 | P a g e 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 223 | P a g e 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 224 | P a g e 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 Augustine’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 Augustine’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 SNCURCS 2014 Hosted By: Thank you to our sponsoring organizations!
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