Searching for Mutations in the Glycine Receptor a1- and ß-Subunits That Cause Hyperekplexia in Canines. Presenter: Tammy Golat. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Gary Onan, Animal and Food Science. University of Minnesota mentor: Dr. James Mickelson

Several genetic diseases that afflict the dog have been shown to be similar to human genetic disorders. For instance, mutations in the glycine receptor a1- and ß-subunits cause hyperekplexia in both humans and dogs. Primers were designed for the canine glycine receptor a1- and ß-subunits. Once optimized, the primers were combined with dilutions of DNA from both affected hyperekplexia dogs and unaffected control dogs in a PCR reaction. These samples were then run on an agarose gel and extracted for sequencing. Further investigation will be performed to determine if the located SNP are associated with mutations that cause hyperekplexia.

Water Quality Evaluation Using a Rapid Monitoring Technique: The Utility of BOD:P Ratios. Presenters: Summer Streets and Alexander Dubish. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Laine Vignona, Environmental Science

The purpose of this research was to determine whether BOD:P ratios could be effectively utilized to assess water quality in surface water systems. Samples were taken from the Kinnickinnic River and analyzed for BOD and phosphorous. An acceptable BOD:P ratio of at least 2:1 was met or exceeded 12 times. For this water system, high BOD:P ratios are an indicator of better water quality because high ratios were most often obtained when phosphorous concentrations were low. BOD:P ratios are not very useful for surface water systems because the ratio makes it impossible to see which factor is the problem.

Effect of Stabilizer Formulations on Viscosity of Yogurt. Presenter: Becky Knetter. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada and Ranee May, Animal and Food Science Department

Yogurt formulations containing three different stabilizer systems at 0.3 % and 0.4% levels were used to manufacture plain yogurt.   The yogurt was manufactured using the Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus  cultures and incubated at 45 C for 6 hours. The pH and viscosity of yogurt were measured using the Brookfield viscometer. The pH and viscosityvalues were lower in samples containing stabilizers than the control. Increase in stabilizer concentration produced a lower pH and viscosity values.

Table 1) Values obtained for three stabilizers at two concentrations.

Effect of Various Forms of Cherries on Processed Cheese Spread. Presenter: Linnea Beckel. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada and Ranee May, Animal & Food Science Department

The objective of this research was to determine if various forms of cherries change the components of a processed cheese spread.  Fresh and processed (dried and canned) cherries were added to the cheese spread.  Aged White Cheddar cheese and Young Swiss cheese from the UW-RF dairy plant were used to make the processed cheese spread.  Each form of cherry was used in each batch made, to make a total of three different batches.  The cheese was put through a series of analytical tests; test included percent fat, percent solids, and moisture content.  These tests were then compared to the control.

Osmotic Dehydration of Cherries. Presenter: Ryan Warwick. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada, Animal and Food Science Department

Integrating Restriction/Modification and Abortive Infection Bacteriophage Defenses into a Single Lactococcus lactis Strain Through a Starter Culture Rotation Strategy. Presenters: Marion J. Majeske and Julie M. Yang. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada and Dr. Daniel J. O'Sullivan, Animal and Food Science Department

Ranch Processed Cheese and the Process Formulation for Improved Flavor. Presenter: Sara Fictum. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada and Ranee May Animal & Food Science Department.

Aged Cheddar and Swiss cheeses, produced in the UWRF dairy plant, were used to create a ranch flavored processed cheese using Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning in varying amounts which were three ounces in the weak batch and five ounces in the strong batch.  The compositional attributes of %fat, moisture, pH, and salt were then measured using the Babcock, Vacuum oven, pH meter, and Corning Chloride Analyzer respectively.  The two types were then evaluated by an untrained sensory evaluation panel using a descriptive analysis with scaling test.  The results indicated that ranch processed cheese was preferred by 96% of the evaluators and that the weaker batch was the overall favorite.

Comparison of Bacterial Levels in Organic Versus Conventional Fruits and Vegetables. Presenter: Stacie Westerdale. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada, Animal & Food Science

Mapping Turkey Breast to Determine Muscle Quality. Presenter: Beth Schwertel. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada, Animal & Food Science

Individually frozen turkey breast fillets were mapped and subdivided according to a grid resulting in 2" square pieces and measured for CIE L*a*b* color values.  The color measurements were used to determine the relationship between position and color in order to compare the breast color with its pH, percent moisture uptake and percent cooked yield characteristics.  The average color values varied slightly related to position on the breast while the pH, moisture uptake and cook yield varied by location, but not significantly.  This suggests that there is a correlation between the color and muscle quality characteristics as well as the color variation on the breast.

Comparison of Nitrite Levels in Organic and Non-Organic Processed Meats. Presenter: David Arndt. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada, Animal & Food Science

Whole-fat Yogurt Proximate Analysis. Presenter: Denise Anderson. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Bonnie Walters and Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada, Animal & Food Science

Quantifying the Degree of Strain in a Basal Till: Implications for the Bed Conditions of the Lake Michigan Lobe. Presenter: Nick Vreeland. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Robert Baker, Plant & Earth Science. Mentors: Iowa State University , Dr. Neil Iverson and Jason Thomason

Sodium Lactate as an Antimicrobial in Meat Products. Presenter: Louis K. Muench. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada, Animal & Food Science

An Analysis of the Effects of Grey Squirrels (Sciurus Carolinensis) on Sustainable Forestry Practices at Buccleuch Estates. Presenter: Jaime R. Thissen. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant and Earth Science

The overabundance of the American grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) has been an ecological and aesthetic nuisance to the forests of Scotland ever since their arrival from North America . These creatures' negative interaction with deciduous trees has caused considerable problems in forest conservation practices across the United Kingdom . The purposes of this study demonstrated that squirrels are a threat to Scotland 's sustainable forestry practices, and traditional control methods such as hunting and trapping are ineffective. To illustrate this, a study area was established at Buccleuch Estates in Dalkeith , Scotland . Data were then collected by teams of students observing the damage on individual trees at a selected site representative of the forest stands within the estate. The data revealed damage to nearly every tree examined. Several of the trees had moderate to heavy damage. The use of rodenticides such as warafin in conjunction with the previously mentioned traditional methods seems to be the most feasible option of population control of the American grey squirrel.

3-D Seismics using Kingdom Suite Presenter: Joshua Zwadlo Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ian Williams, Plant & Earth Science

3-D seismic use has increased over the last 30 years, resulting in a dramatic improvement in locating productive hydrocarbon wells. The Kingdom Suite software allows for viewing and interpretation of seismic data. The user is able to view 3-D models, 2-D cross sections chosen at any orientation within the 3-D cube, and log data for well correlation. This data is used for interpretation of where subsurface structures are located and where they host hydrocarbon deposits.

Using Geographic Information Systems to Analyze Karst Topography in Woodville , Wisconsin   Presenter: Zach Nelson Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kerry Keen, Plant & Earth Science

Morphological and geometric characteristics of the sinkholes in a locality near Woodville , Wisconsin were determined in this study. By means of physical measurement the length, width, depth, and location data were gathered for each sinkhole. The measurements collected will provide an excellent baseline for future research on the sinkholes in this locality. The results of this analysis showed that the sinkholes and depressions in the study area were mainly small in area and shallow in depth. The majority of the sinkholes had neighbors within15 m.

Genetically Modified Organisms and Consumers' Opinions Based on Personal Characteristics. Presenter: Jennifer Bjelland. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Purnendu C. Vasavada, Animal & Food Science

Design, Planning and Deployment of a Continuous Water-Quality Monitoring System on the UW-River Falls Campus – Student/Faculty Collaboration. Presenter: Alexander M. Dubish. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kerry L. Keen, Dr. Kelly D. Cain, and Dr. Laine Vignona, Plant & Earth Science

Socio-Cultural Effects of Tourism. Presenter: Brock Anderson. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant and Earth Science; Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

Tourism is one of the world's largest and fastest growing industries, and as with any industry there is the potential for risks and rewards. There are three main categories of impacts tourism has on the host community: Economic Impacts, Environmental Impacts, and Socio-Cultural Impacts. Although these three aspects of tourism are interrelated, there is a tendency to ignore the latter. It is much easier to focus on the economic and environmental aspects of tourism as they are more pronounced and much easier to measure. The socio-cultural effects tourism has on host communities have the potential to be positive or negative.

Coffee as a Sustainable Commodity. Presenters: Amanda Stenjem and Kara DeVriendt Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant & Earth Science Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

Coffee is one of the largest traded growth commodities in Central America . This growth is driving the need for additional good land and equitable fair trade practices as many farmers are loosing their jobs to unfair trading and land degradation. Sustainable, fair trade, shade-grown and organic coffee growing practices are just a few of the approaches that can be used to meet the needs of future generations. Selva Negra Coffee Estate not only produces top quality gourmet coffee, but also operates under a philosophy that ensures sustainable environmental, social, and economic surroundings.

Fresh Water Sharks of Nicaragua. Presenters: Ann Marie Grey and Jennifer Cassel Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant and Earth Science Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

Until very recently, researchers thought the sharks in Lake Nicaragua were a separate species because there was no way for the sharks to move in or out. It was later discovered that they were jumping along the rapids of the Rio San Juan just like Salmon. Bull Sharks tagged inside the lake were later caught in the open ocean.

Eco-systems of Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Presenters: Noah Cain and Beth Hayes. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant & Earth Science Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

The ecosystems of Central America are unique due to their location and annual rainfall. Costa Rica and Nicaragua are located in the middle of Central America and by looking at the ecosystems of these countries you can get an overview of some of the most interesting ecosystems in the world. With diversity from cloud forest to mangrove streams, the four main ecosystems are beautiful and diverse in their nature.

Deforestation in Costa Rica. Presenter: Dain Zimmer Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant & Earth Science Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

Deforestation in Costa Rica poses a serious global threat to biodiversity. Deforestation has been primarily a result of growing agriculture and coincides with the general development of the country. Issues such as poaching and poverty still pose a barrier to sustainable development in the nation. As nature based tourism gains popularity in the region, and the resulting development pressures persist, the tropical forests ironically stand in danger of being lost. A combination of proactive policy making and raised public awareness must be made if the country is to meet its goal of responsible land stewardship.

Species of Monkeys in Costa Rica. Presenters: Nina Petersen and Rebekka Nelson. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant & Earth Science; Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

Datanli: Available Solution for a Viable People. Presenter: Joel Probst Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant & Earth Science Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

The viability of the people of Datanlí - El Diablo Nature Reserve ( Nicaragua ), lies in their choices about future land use. The answers do not come quickly or easily. For these people, nature tourism, in combination with shade-grown coffee and sugar cane, is being considered as a solution to their struggle with poverty. Invariably, tourism is the proverbial double-edged sword of prosperity versus change; the first is possible while the other is almost certain. How can they maximize one, while minimizing the other? The answer lies in the very conscious and deliberate choices they are making for implementation.

Costa Rican Sea Turtles: A Quest for an End to Their Destruction. Presenter: Stephanie Johnson Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant & Earth Science Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

The leatherback sea turtle is one of the largest living reptiles. In the United States , these turtles are characterized as endangered under the US Federal Endangered Species Act. Internationally, they are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. Currently, estimations of 20,000 to 30,000 female leatherbacks exist worldwide. Scientists estimate that only 1 in 1000 hatchlings survive into adulthood. Scientists worldwide come to Costa Rica to study these creatures in hope that they can gather information about their biology, their nesting habits, and their early development in order to save them from extinction.

The Mombacho Volcano. Presenter: Sheri Zielinsk Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant & Earth Science; Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

The Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve in Nicaragua is a place where humans and nature can meet. It is an example of a well-established place of ecotourism that strongly believes in sustainability. After visiting Mombacho guests gain an appreciation for the history of the volcano, the amazing amount of biodiversity, and the ecotourism and sustainability efforts brought about by the local people. This project was designed with the goal of informing educators, students, and interested people in the beliefs, history, and efforts of the Mombacho Nature Reserve.

A Booming Business: Smuggling Exotic Species out of Central America. Presenters: Jamie Thompson and Nate Palmer Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Kelly Cain, Plant & Earth Science; Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

Our topic is focused on the act of smuggling tropical animal, plant and reptile species out of their natural habitats. Nicaragua and Costa Rica are two countries with significant smuggling problems because they have the natural/native habitats for many of the more popular smuggled species—which are then sold to the black market. This poster reflects what we have learned about Nicaragua and Costa Rica , the species native to these countries that are the primary smuggling targets, and the craze of the animal smuggling world.

Evaluating Irradiated Barley For Susceptibility To Stem Rust. Presenter: Abby Olson. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Brian Steffenson and Dr. Brad Mogen, Biology

Several pounds of barley seed were irradiated with fast neutrons. Second generation seed following irradiation was planted in Rosemont , Minnesota and inoculated with rust in hopes of finding a naturally resistant plant with signs of susceptibility to stem rust. Phenotypic mutations observed in a number of plants suggest the irradiation was a success but only a limited number of plants became infected with stem rust. Stem rust infected plants were collected and will be analyzed further in hopes of locating one, or possibly more, genes coding for rust resistance in barley.

Racial Attitudes Over Time: The Effects of Empathy and Presentation Style. Presenters: Katarina Bengtsson and Lindsey Zdychnec Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Cyndi Kernahan, Psychology

The purpose of this work was to examine how feelings of empathy and presentation style would affect participants' racial attitudes, both immediately and after two weeks. Participants' level of empathy was manipulated with instructions (high empathy, no empathy) before they were presented with information about racism that was either broad-based and statistical or in the form of narrative first-person stories (both formats contained the same information). Results showed that the story format elicited less denial of the information they read, though this did not extend to their attitudes about (and denial of) racism generally, neither immediately nor two weeks later.

Sonoluminescence. Presenters: Alex Dix and Luke Chambers. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lowell McCann, Physics

Sonoluminescence is the production of light from a tiny air bubble being expanded and contracted violently by the alternating pressure of a standing sound wave. The process is still not completely understood within the scientific community, and has become a focus of study within the last fifteen years. To accomplish sonoluminescence, we have constructed an apparatus consisting of a round bottom flask with piezoelectric ceramic devices epoxied to it. The piezoelectric devices vibrate water in the flask making it possible to trap and drive a bubble in the water.

The Hosoya Index, Lucas Numbers, and QSPR. Presenters: Kevin J. Dawson and Tina M. Westerberg. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kevin W. McLaughlin, Chemistry

The number of different molecules with the formula C 64 H 130 is more than one hundred million billion times greater that the number of different molecules of all types and formulas cataloged in all of human history. Therefore, it is imperative that theoretical chemists develop methods to predict properties of molecules from their structures so that synthetic chemists can identify on which of the enumerable molecular structures they should expend their finite resources. One such approach to predicting the properties of molecules involves something called a topological index. We present an analysis of the problems involved in the use of one such topological index for quantitative structure-property relationships.

An Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Assay for the Determination of Lead in Drinking Water. Presenters: Douglas E. Bach and Jonelle Udstrand. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Barb Nielsen, Chemistry

Determination of Bisphenol-A Concentration Leached from Polycarbonate Drinking Bottles. Presenters: Stacy Pederson and Lea Dankers. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Barb Nielsen, Chemistry

The Applicability of a Laser-Pointer-Based Colorimetric Detector in the Determination of Visual Titration Endpoints. Presenters: Boyd Weiger and Casey Chantelois. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Barb Nielsen, Chemistry

A laser-pointer-based colorimetric detector will be assembled and its validity will be assessed by comparison to visual and literature results. The usefulness of this detector to other visual indicators will be evaluated by a simple acid-base titration using phenolphthalein as an indicator. The difference in precision between visual and spectrometer based endpoints will be assessed. We expect the results of the investigation to demonstrate the applicability of this detector to other titrations based on visual indicators (i.e., color changes).

Belize Internship 2005: Conch Survey and Field Guide Photo Collection. Presenters: James Grosek, Sarah Winter, Brianna Larson, and John Laughlin. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ed Robins, Sociology, Anthropology, & Criminal Justice

Redox Titration of Sodium Oxalate using Multiplexed Modeling   Presenters: Abe Simons and Chrissy Clark Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Barb Nielsen, Chemistry

The goal of this project is to reduce the number of trials required in a volumetric analysis experiment (i.e., a titration experiment.) A multiplexed modeling routine will be used to analyze the results of a redox titration of sodium oxalate with potassium permanganate. Traditionally, when students perform this experiment, a total of nine titrations must be run to ensure the necessary precision. Using the multiplexed modeling method, it is anticipated that the number of titration analyses can be reduced to five, while still attaining the same, or better, precision. The experiment will compare the results and precision of a traditionally executed analysis and one performed using multiplexed modeling method. The results of this comparison will be discussed. If time permits, this multiplexed modeling method will be applied to other volumetric analyses.

An Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Assay for the Determination of Arsenic in Drinking Water. Presenters: Leigh Kennedy and Tina Westerberg. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Barb Nielsen, Chemistry

The Arts. P resenter: Ashley Ryan Hawke. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lynn Jermal, Art

This is a C-RSCA collaborative research grant project. After researching historical and contemporary mosaic techniques, a project was planned by the researchers for the west stairwell of KFA between the first and ground floors. A team of four students was recruited to design the mosaic with the theme "The Arts". The process included gaining approval from the administration, budgeting, funding, collecting and ordering materials and training volunteers to help on different aspects of fabricating the mosaic panels. The university facilities staff helped permanently install the project. The final piece "Moving Through the Arts" is a collaborative mosaic public work for the university dedicated to Dean Gorden Hedahl.

Operation Free Iraq : A Gendered Content Analysis of Newspapers. Presenter: Niki Jepson. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Tricia Davis, Sociology, Anthropology, & Criminal Justice

Tabletop Thermoacoustic Refrigeration. Presenters: Heather Lunn and Robert Wicklund. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lowell McCann, Physics

We have constructed and tested a tabletop thermoacoustic refrigerator. The design uses a porous plug inside a simple organ pipe resonator. Standing sound waves were produced by a speaker located at one end of the tube. Thermal energy (heat) is moved by the combination of compression and expansion of air packets and oscillatory movement of air inside the tube. We have demonstrated a 9 degree Fahrenheit difference between the two ends of the porous plug. These refrigerators have no moving parts, no CFCs, and can operate at a high efficiency and may someday replace existing refrigerator designs.

The Integration of James Meredith into Ole Miss   Presenter: Jennifer Leis Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Betty Bergland, History & Philosophy

On October 1, 1962 James Meredith, a twenty-nine year old veteran, from Mississippi accomplished the impossible. After a long political battle and personal fight he was allowed to register at Ole Miss as the first African-American to do so. His struggle for equality took center stage nationally when he tried to break down segregation in the southern state most dedicated to remaining segregated. The integration of James Meredith into Ole Miss changed society in Mississippi and as a result changed the discriminatory culture that had previously thrived in the state.

Particle Imaging Velocimetry of Flow in a Rectangular Channel. Presenters: Kyle Hoegh, Adam Puhl, and Nick Olsen. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lowell McCann, Physics

Determination of the Rotation Rate for Minor Planet #4006 Sandler   Presenters: Daniel J. Kopchinski, Amanda R. Pittman, and Stephen J. Taubel Faculty Sponsor: Matthew T. Vonk, Physics

Minor Planet #4006 Sandler was observed during the spring of 2005. Its light curve was measured and its rotation period was determined to be 3.4 hours with an amplitude of 0.15 magnitude.

Listen and Learn. Presenters: Karla Miller & Members of the Music Ed I class. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Hilree Hamilton , Music

At the heart of everything we do with music is one fundamental idea: listening.  Music is an aural art, and listening with knowledge is a skill that must be learned to fully appreciate the art form that we love. The purpose of this project was for students in Music Ed I to develop a set of active listening lessons intended to help school age children attending the St. Croix Valley Symphony Young Person's Concert understand and be cognitively engaged with the music performed in the concert.  Students were assisted in this project by a peer advisor, Karla Miller, who helped with resources, modeled teaching, and compiled the final book of lessons completed by students in the class.

Growth of Streptomycetes on Various Nutrients. Presenter: Melissa A. Schmitt. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Kim Mogen, Biology. Mentor : University of Minnesota , Linda L. Kinkel, Plant Pathology Department

The streptomycetes, a group of bacteria significant for their production of antibiotics, are commonly found in the rhizosphere where they feed off nutrients exuded from plant roots. Previously, the antibiotic activity of streptomycetes isolated from three plant species were studied, and a link to plant species was discovered.  We hypothesize the link between plant species and phenotype of the streptomycetes may be due to nutrients on which the streptomycetes feed.  Streptomycete spores were inoculated onto Biolog plates. The relationship between the nutrients metabolized by each streptomycete isolate and the plant rhizosphere from which it was collected is presented.

Synthesis and Characterization of N-Phenethylpyridinecarboxamides as Potential Inducers of Apoptosis   Presenter: Brianna Zemke Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Karl P. Peterson, Chemistry

Apoptosis is a biological process in which cells “switch-on” a series of pathways leading to programmed cell death, which operates to control cell growth and tissue organization throughout an organism's life. Faulty regulation of apoptosis has been implicated in such common disease states as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and cancer. Small molecules that can induce or inhibit apoptosis are of tremendous interest as potential pharmaceutical agents and tools to study the biology of apoptosis. The synthesis and characterization of a series of N-phenethylpyridinecarboxamides bearing structural similarity to compounds recently reported to selectively induce apoptosis in cancer cells will be presented.

Using FRET to Locate Active N-WASP   Presenter: Mike Salmela

Actin based motility is important in biological processes such as neurite extension, chemotaxis of immune cells, fibroblast migration, and phagocytosis. Neural Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein (N-WASP) is known to be involved in actin based motility, however its exact role is not fully understood. In this study we attempted to elucidate the role of N-WASP in actin based motility by using an ECFP-NWASP-EYFP fusion protein to detect intramolecular fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) in mouse fibroblast cells. This FRET would allow us to tell the difference between active and inactive N-WASP. Our results so far have confirmed that the ECFP-NWASP-EYFP fusion protein is being expressed, folding properly, and is localizing in the leading edge of fibroblasts. We are still working on imaging FRET.

Design and Synthesis of TRPV1 Antagonists: Probing the D-Region Binding Site using Hyroxyalkyl Substituents. Presenters: Matthew L. Earney and Justin B. Guthman. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David Rusterholz, Department of Chemistry

Word Usage Analysis of the 2004 Presidential Debates   Presenter: Nels R. Thoreson Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Tracey L. Gladstone-Sovell, Political Science

The presidential debates give the candidate an opportunity to speak directly to the American public, and give the American citizen an opportunity to directly listen to the candidate's message. It was in knowing this that a two-level content analysis was done on the word usage of the 2004 presidential debates to find out how and what kinds of words the candidates used to relay their platforms, views and beliefs. The first level involved how and if the question was answered, and looked at the structure of their response. The second-level focused on the word usage of the presidential debates in relation to the structured Democratic and Republican Convention nomination acceptance speeches by the candidates. It was done with the assistance of the computer program, DICTION, designed by University of Texas professor Dr. Roderick Hart. The program was able to analyze the words in the five main headings of: certainty, activity, optimism, commonality and realism, and thirty-five other sub-features. This led to an in-depth comparison of the word usage between the two candidates.

A Model System to Test Capsaicin Analogs on Receptor-mediated Calcium Influx. Presenter: María Caruso. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Karen Klyczek, Biology Department

Investigating Chemotaxis and Formaldehyde Induced Fluorescence in the Neurons of C.elegans.Presenter: Bwarenaba Kautu. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. E. Katherine Miller, Department of Biology

A Multi-Generation Sublethal Assay of Estrogenic Compounds Using the him-5 Strain of the Nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Presenter : Kendra K. Scudder. Faculty Sponsor : Dr. E. Katherine Miller, Biology

Cytoplasmic Polyadenylation of Hermes mRNA'.   Presenter: Spandan Shah. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Scott Ballantyne, Biology

Hermes is a mRNA binding protein first identified in the African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis. Hermes protein is required for normal heart development. We have identified a novel Hermes cDNA, related to but distinct from the sequence first described. Our Hermes cDNA contains sequence that corresponds to the very 3' end of the mRNA. The Hermes 3'untranslated region (3' UTR) contains a non-consensus polyadenylation signal (AUUAAA) just upstream of the Poly(A) tail. We note that the Hermes 3' UTR also contains two copies of the sequence UUUUUGU – which is strikingly similar to UUUUUAU the consensus cytoplasmic polyadenylation element (CPE). We propose that the variant CPE like sequences will cause Hermes mRNA to undergo cytoplasmic polyadenylation during meiotic maturation. To test this hypothesis we are attempting to compare the length of Hermes mRNA in oocytes and meiotically mature oocytes. We are using a non-radioactive DIG labeling method to prepare a probe that will specifically hybridize to Hermes mRNA. We will use this probe to perform Northern analyses on Hermes mRNA.

Worms Are What They Eat: Disrupting the sia-1 gene in C.elegans. Presenters: Caroline Martin, Megan Theede, Garrett Duncanson, and Professor Jodie Deshler. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Scott Ballantyne, Biology

Seven-in-absentia (sina) is a gene required for eye development in fruitflies and male fertility in mice. The worm C.elegans is a powerful model organism for studying animal behavior and development. Worms contain a gene, sia-1, that is homologous to sina. Sia-1 and sina proteins are 58% identical, which may lead to similar biological functions. Here we describe our use of RNA interference (RNAi) to eliminate sia1 gene function in C.elegans. RNA interference uses double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to target and destroy specific mRNA. The plasmid pLitmus28i is designed to produce dsRNA that will initiate the degradation of target mRNA. Worms eat E.coli . dsRNA is produced within a specialized feeding strain of E.coli. Worms that eat this strain lose target gene function. We have prepared a feeding strain containing a plasmid that will destroy sia-1 mRNA.

Worms Don't Have Eyes: Analyzing C.elegans Lacking sia-1 Gene Function. Megan Theede, Caroline Martin, Garrett Duncanson, and Professor Jodie Deshler. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Scott Ballantyne, Department of Biology

Seven-in-absentia (sina) is a gene required for eye development in fruitflies ( D.melanogaster ) and male fertility in mice ( M. muluscus ). The worm C.elegans is a powerful model organism for studying animal behavior and development. Worms contain a gene, sia-1, that is homologous to sina. We have used RNA interference (RNAi) to eliminate sia-1 gene function in C.elegans (see preceding poster). Here we describe experiments that we are currently conducting to analyze these worms. One of our experiments focus on whether sia-1 disruption alters worm fertility. We are currently testing whether sia-1 RNA interference affects overall worm brood size. In mice the sina gene homolog only affects male fertility. We would like to know whether this is also true in worms. C.elegans exist as either self-fertile hermaphrodites or males. Normally male worms are rare, making it difficult to measure their fertility. We plan to overcome this difficulty by mating mutant worm strains that produce primarily males with mutant female strains.

Cloning of the Capsaicin Receptor Gene by RT-PCR. Presenter: Amy Jorgenson. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Karen Klyczek, Biology Department

Using Geographic Information Systems to Determine Potential Bald Eagle Nesting Sites in Washington County , MN. Presenter: Zachary R. Nelson Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Charles Rader, Geography & Mapping Sciences

The bald eagle population in the lower 48 states of the United States of America has declined dramatically. Sixteen of the thirty-five active bald eagle breeding sites in the Twin Cities Metro Area are located in Washington County . Slope and aspect along with distance to open water, and proximity to roads, railroads and other man-made features of the known nesting sites were calculated to determine the GIS model. By developing and analyzing the GIS model of bald eagle nests, it was concluded that of the 1,015 square kilometers in Washington County , 88 square kilometers would be suitable for bald eagle nests.

Oxygen-18 Incorporation From Dioxygen During Oxidation Of Ribonucleotide Reductase. Presenters: Lisa Malmgren, Hilary Lucachick, Sarah Reincke, and Casey Chantelois. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Michael Kahlow, Chemistry

The electron transfer stoichiometry of E. coli ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) R2 subunit with diiron has yet to be thoroughly understood. The overall goal is to study the oxygen activation and the mechanism of RNR. These mechanisms of oxygen activation by metal complexes, such as the diiron, and the enzymes involves are still not fully understood. Once understood, it would allow for the design of catalysts that could use oxygen as an oxidant. Previous resonance Raman experiments have demonstrated that one atom of 18 O 2 from dioxygen is incorporated into the Fe-O-Fe bridge in the presence of excess reductant. A protein purification protocol for UWRF is being established using streptomycin and ammonium sulfate precipitation and High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The goal at UWRF is to develop the purification protocol to obtain a large yield of R2 to perform resonance Raman, and stopped-flow kinetic experiments. The protein has been characterized by UV/Vis spectroscopy and the comparison of chromatograms from the HPLC.

Analysis of the Protein Content of Trichome Cells in Arabidopsis thaliana. Presenters: Rachel Goodwin and Erik Olson. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ross Jilk, Chemistry

Development of a 3-dimensional Cell Culture System for the Growth and Study of Epithelial “pseudo-tissues.” Presenters: Tracey Nelson, Tory Schaaf, Marion Majeske, Erin Lee, Andrew Gunderson, Sarah Schimmel, and Nicole Salwasser. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Timothy Lyden, Biology

Culture and Identification of Freshwater Bacteria Capable of Degrading Complex Plant Material Found in the Form of Dissolved Organic Matter (DOM). Presenter: Lyzanne de Bruin. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Elaine O. Hardwick, Biology 

Bacterial populations in the aquatic community are known to degrade dissolved organic matter (DOM). This project incorporated a two-fold approach: i) the culture of naturally occurring freshwater bacteria capable of degrading DOM, and ii) their characterization. Two of four sequenced bacterial isolates were related to the g -Proteobacteria and had sequences similar to species in the genus Stenotrophomonas (commonly found in aquatic environments). The other two had sequences similar to Burkholderia sp. and grouped with the beta - Proteobacteria (commonly found in terrestrial and aquatic environments). Differences among species has the potential to influence transport, cycling, and retention of DOM in aquatic ecosystems.

Morphometric Analysis of "tissue-engineered” 3-dimensional Epithelial Cell Cultures. Presenters: Tracey Nelson, Tory Schaaf, Erin Lee, Marion Majeske, Andrew Gunderson, Sarah Schimmel, and Nicole Salwasser. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Timothy Lyden, Department of Biology

In these studies, samples of Hela, HEK, JEG and BeWo cells grown on 3-dimensional scaffoldings were evaluated and a variety of measurements made using the NIH "Image J" analysis program. Preliminary results suggest that the scaffolding material itself has an average wet diameter of about 38um and that cells layer one deep on it are about 28 um deep. Differences were noted between ry and wet diameters of the scaffolding structures as well as between cell lines. These data will be contrasted with tissue sections of related structures in the body to define relationships between these cultures and actual features.

Biological Testing of Synthetic Organic Compounds for Potential Activity Inducing Apoptosis. Presenter: Nicole Salwasser. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Timothy Lyden, Biology; Collaborators, Dr. Karl Peterson and Brianna Zemke

Establishment of GFP-tubulin Expressing Stable Epithelial Cell Lines. Presenter: Andrew Gunderson. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Timothy Lyden, Biology

The purpose of this project is to develop cell lines which stably express a commercial DNA vector that contains a fusion gene of green fluorescent protein (GFP) and alpha tubulin. The resultant cell lines will then be utilized for ongoing studies in our laboratory focused on the normal development and differentiation of placental trophoblast cells. Therefore, we are now seeking to introduce the GFP-tubulin "living colors" vector into epithelial (Hela and HEK) cells, followed by selection of transfected cells and growth into sub-lines of cells expressing this important cytoskeletal component.

Efforts to Establish a GFP-ERV env Expression Vector Using Trophoblast Cell Cultures as the Target Gene Source. Presenter: Sarah Schimmel. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Timothy Lyden, Biology

Isolation and Identification of Genes Involved in Trichome Differentiation in Arabidopsis thaliana. Presenters: Beth Betker and Stacy Pederson. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Ross Jilk, Chemistry

Design and Synthesis of TRPV1 Antagonists; Using the Amide Functional Group as a Possible D-Region Binding Moiety. Presenters: Sarah A. Barfknecht and Lea M. Dankers. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David Rusterholz, Department of Chemistry

Money Demand and Equity Markets. Presenters: James King, Bridget Kocian, Sam Nikolas, Brandon Paulson, and Nicole Snyder.

The study performs an OLS regression on the demand for money including market volatility. The hypothesis tested was whether adding velocity to the demand for money function would affect the equation at all. We tested the hypothesis using consumption, GDP, volatility, M2 and the 3-Month T-Bill. Results showed that there was little effect on adding velocity to the equation. We shifted our focus and tried the equation without consumption and found that this did affect money demand. We concluded that our hypothesis was not true and needed further research and testing time.

Do Consumers Spend According to What They Anticipate Their Future Income to be? Presenters: Jim Tobritzhofer, Noah Bigjohn, Abigail Witwicke and Ann Wychor-Hall – Senior Seminar. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John Walker, Department of Economics

Does Effort Impact the Earnings of Female and Male Self-Employed in St. Croix County , Wisconsin : A Preliminary Analysis.   Presenters: Abigail Witwicke, Ann Wychor-Hall, Brandon Paulson, Bridgit Kocian, James King, James Tobritzhofer, Nicole Snyder, Noah Bigjohn, and Samuel Nikolas. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. John R. Walker, Economics

This study employs a unique survey of non-agricultural self-employed women and men in St. Croix County , Wisconsin to directly test if effort expended (at work or doing household chores) has a significant effect on their net earnings. Preliminary results indicate the greater effort self-employed women in this sample expend doing household chores does significantly reduce their net earnings. At the same time, the net earnings of these women is not reduced by number of hours they spend doing housework. In the estimates of self-employed men, effort at work or doing household chores does not significantly impact their net earnings. The preliminary results suggest, however, the net earnings of these men is significantly reduced by the time spent doing household chores.

Safety To & From School. Presenter: Sarah Icenogle. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer S. Berna, Health & Human Performance

Sarah is a recent transfer student from Kansas, who in her first semester at UWRF, dug into her research in safety education by going directly to a business source (Laidlaw Bus Company) for onsite qualitative interviews. As a result of her field interviews, she has included photos, graphics, and safety tips in her research poster display. A yellow and black color scheme was selected to be visually reinforcing of the research focus on bus safety. This display is designed to be attractive to and educate a multiple audience of youth in schools, their parents…and yes, bus drivers, too.

Making the Transition – We Can't Control Everything, But We Can Control Some Things. Presenters: Terri Dierkhising and Katrina Spears. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jennifer S. Berna, Health & Human Performance

Following class discussion of two photo journalism articles sourced from “Mother Jones” magazine) on physical rehabilitation in the aftermath of soldiers' return from serving in Iraq, research was conducted regarding a holistic approach to periods of transitions for military families. Transitions that test and stretch the health and well being of individuals and family members include departing for, and returning from military deployment. This research poster provides helpful hints for reunion, shares stories and insights of personal courage and fortitude during health rehabilitation, and focuses on “real life” vignettes of military families reuniting. The back of the poster was utilized to reinforce components of character development emphasized through educational and health promotion programming.

Self-Efficacy and Performance in English Language Learners. Presenters: Mary Vang and Marcel Montanez. Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Florence Monsour, Department of Education

Previous researchers have indicated that the perceived self-efficacy level in students may have an effect on their performance and achievement. In this study, the relationship between self-efficacy and the performance of English Language Learners (ELL) in Math and Reading was examined. Pre- and post exams were taken by students in the subjects of math and reading to determine their level and to measure their progress throughout a program during the summer course. This program was designed to prepare Latino youth in passing the Minnesota Basic Standards test by implementing technology and additional support. In addition, pre- and post surveys were also distributed to establish the self-efficacy level in each student and to determine if there would be a difference of scores. These scores were analyzed to determine whether or not self-efficacy has a significant impact on ELL student's performance. Results show that completion of the program increased participant's perceived self-efficacy in reading and math. In addition, self-efficacy in reading and learning vocabulary was found to be a significant predictor of growth in reading and vocabulary. However, math self-efficacy was not a significant predictor in the increase of math scores.

Midterm Reports and Subsequent Academic Performance. Presenter: Matthew J. Schuelke Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Philip B. George, Academic Success Center

During the Fall semester of 2002 the University of Wisconsin-River Falls surveyed its 100 level classes to identify students earning less than a grade of ³C². From this survey, 365 first term freshmen were found and tracked. Composite American college test scores (ACT, M=20.56, SD=3.18), high school percentile ranks (HS%, M=59, SD=18), county-per-capita income levels (CPCI, M=21,686, SD=3,624), and a dichotomous retention variable (RetRate, M=.58, SD=.50) were collected. Pearson product correlations were computed among ACT, HS%, CPCI, and RetRate producing significant correlations between both ACT and HS% (r=.19, p<.01) and ACT and CPCI (r=.16, p<.01). The sample was compared to the Fall 2002 entering freshmen class on ACT and HS% showing significant differences (F=132.54, p<.01; F=171.35, p<.01; respectively). The 365 students were then split between retained and not retained at the end of the 2003-2004 academic term and compared on ACT, HS%, and CPCI. This resulted in no significant differences within the group except for HS% (F=.22, p>.01; F=16.08, p<.01; F=.21, p>.01; respectively). The second year retention rate of the sample was compared to the University¹s average and found to be significantly lower (t(365)=-7.02, p<.01). This system of midterm warnings proves to identify students who may benefit from intervention.