Volume 3, Fall 2014
The Community of Underrepresented
Professional Opportunities Journal
2014 CUPO Journal
Table of Contents
Inside this issue:
Forward
3
CUPO Programs and Fast Facts
5
2013-2014 Student Highlights
6
Summer Researchers & Mentors
8
Scholar Profiles & Abstracts
9
Summer Highlight Photos
44
CUPO PhD Recipients
45
The CUPO office is located in New Snell 235
Phone: 315-268-6669
Fax: 315-268-6552
Email: [email protected]
http://www.clarkson.edu/pipeline/programs/cupo.html
2014 CUPO Summer Selection Committee
Marjorie Warden, Julie Kormanyos, Deborah Sutliff,
Jennifer Knack and Michael Ramsdell
Message from the
Director of CUPO
It is with great pride that I introduce the
Community of Underrepresented Professional
Opportunities Journal Volume 3. This journal
will highlight Clarkson University’s CUPO
2014 Summer Research Program. The abstracts
presented here represent the ten weeks of
research and scholarly activity students did this
past summer. This journal reflects the energy, creativity and
effort of the scholars themselves, as well as the careful guidance,
support and
diligence of their faculty mentors. The journal will also highlight
the success of the CUPO programs and the success of our
alumni. I would like to thank all the faculty, staff and
administrative members of the Clarkson University community
that have worked to ensure a supportive and cohesive
environment that prepares these exceptional students for
graduate programs as well as successful careers. We are proud to
highlight the work of these talented researchers, in this edition of
the Clarkson University CUPO Journal. Our best wishes go out
to all of them as they continue to move along their scholastic
continuum.
Marjorie Warden
Director
Community of Underrepresented Professional Opportunities
2013-2014 ASPIRE Mentors
Kathleen Issen, Shane Rogers, Christopher Robinson,
Kathleen Fowler, Tom Langen and Sumona Mondal
2013-2014 CUPO Staff
Marjorie Warden
Director, [email protected]
Julie Austin-Kormanyos
Assistant Director, [email protected]
Deborah Sutliff
Program Coordinator, [email protected]
Michael Ramsdell
Research Director, [email protected]
2
Julie Austin-Kormanyos
Deborah Sutliff
Michael Ramsdell
The Community of Underrepresented
Professional Opportunities (CUPO)
The CUPO office is the shared home to the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry
Program (CSTEP), the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program
(McNair), the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation Program (LSAMP), and
the Academic Success Program to Improve Retention and Education (ASPIRE). The
creation of this office brings together four long-standing federal and state Department
of Education and National Science Foundation programs in one location, providing ease
in access to services for students. The CUPO office provides academic enrichment,
graduate school preparation, career and professional development, research
opportunities, and social and cultural experiences for eligible students.
•
•
•
•
3
Academic Support: academic advisement, private tutoring, academic success
workshops, book grants, laptop loans
Enriching Activities: conferences, cultural and social activities
Career Development: resume writing, professional skill workshops, speakers,
industry visits, FE exam funding, job shadowing and internship/co-op guidance.
Graduate School Preparedness: faculty mentors, speakers, research
opportunities, conferences to present research, GRE prep, GRE exam support,
graduate application assistance, funding to visit graduate schools and workshops
The Community of Underrepresented
Professional Opportunities (CUPO)
Academic Success Program to Improve Retention and Education (ASPIRE)
Provides four-year scholarships to academically talented, financially
needy underrepresented students in STEM majors
• Increases the number of students graduating, attending graduate
school and/or obtaining employment in the STEM fields
Eligibility: Women and underrepresented minority students in STEM majors.
Selected by ASPIRE committee in spring/summer prior to first year.
Funding: National Science Foundation (NSF) and Clarkson University
•
Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP)
Increases the number of historically underrepresented and economically
disadvantaged students pursuing careers in STEM or licensed
professions
Eligibility: New York State resident. Underrepresented minority student who is in a STEM
major or intends to enter a licensed profession.
Funding: NYS Department of Education and Clarkson University
•
Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation Program (LSAMP)
Increases the number of students completing STEM degrees
Increases the number of students matriculating into graduate
programs
Eligibility: African American, Hispanic, Native American, Pacific Islander; STEM major
Funding: National Science Foundation, the consortium comprises 7 institutions: Syracuse
University (lead institution) and Clarkson University, Cornell University, Rensselaer
Polytechnic Institute, Rochester Institute of Technology, and Monroe and Onondaga
Community College
•
•
Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program (McNair)
Increases the number of historically underrepresented and economically
disadvantaged students entering graduate school and obtaining their
PhD
Eligibility:
•
Underrepresented minority students OR first-generation college
students from a low-income background
•
U.S. citizen or permanent U.S. resident
•
2.8 GPA or higher
•
Sophomore or junior undergraduate in STEM major
Funding: A TRiO program funded by the U.S. Department of Education & Clarkson
University
•
4
CUPO Fast Facts
SSPRING 2014
ASPIRE:
98 students served
3.371 cumulative GPA, spring 2014
Retention Rate from Fall 2013 to Fall 2014 was 100%
Overall retention rate is 89%
CSTEP:
Has been at Clarkson since 1994
Funded for 65, serve 76
95% Retention Rate
3.095 cumulative GPA, spring 2014
LSAMP:
Has been at Clarkson since 2007
130 Students served
2.970 cumulative GPA of Level 1 students, spring 2014
McNair:
Has been at Clarkson since 1996, refunded again in 2013
Served 267 students since start
3.488 cumulative GPA, spring 2014
98.3% graduation rate
One of 149 schools offering the program
3.84 average cumulative GPA, spring 2014
56% of those graduated, enrolled in a graduate school program
31%, 82 have completed & 24 are currently enrolled in a Masters program
3.37%, 9 have completed & 4 are currently enrolled in a Professional program
8.61%, 23 have completed & 17 are currently enrolled in a PhD program
Clarkson Fast Facts
3.008 cumulative GPA as of spring 2014
3.042 cumulative GPA in STEM as of spring 2014
87.8% Retention Rate
5
2013-2014 CUPO Student Highlights
Pinguang graduated May 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in
Biomolecular Science. He was an active member of CSTEP and
the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE). He was
also a McNair Research Scholar and Honors student.
Currently he is completing his dual MD/ PhD degree at Hofstra
North Shore-LIJ School of medicine. After his first course of
medical school, he is a certified New York EMT.
Andrea graduated in May 2014 with a degree in Mechanical
Engineering and a minor in Mathematics. While at
Clarkson, Andrea was active in CUSA, the Educational
Outreach Program, and was the Vice President of her
class. She also participated in the CUPO Summer Research
program, working with Dr. Byron Erath, and had a summer
internship with NAVSEA. She was awarded the prestigious
National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research
Fellowship. Approximately 14,000 students apply each year
and Andrea was one of 2,000 to receive this Fellowship.
Andrea is now working towards her PhD in Mechanical
Engineering at Columbia University.
Brendan graduated in December of 2013 with a
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and Management. While
working on his Bachelor’s degree he was an active
member of the CSTEP program. Brendan is currently
working on his Graduate degree in Environmental Science
and Engineering, with a concentration in Sustainability,
here at Clarkson University.
Daniel graduated in May of 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree
in Electrical Engineering. While working on his
Bachelor’s degree, Daniel was a Presidential Scholar, a
Summer McNair Scholar and an active Sergeant with the
U.S. Marine Corps. Daniel decided to continue his
education at Clarkson and is currently working towards a
PhD in Engineering with a focus on power. He aspires to
become a prominent figure in this field.
6
Summer 2014
Research Mentors and Scholars
7
McNair Scholar
Mentor
Gabriela Arita-Cveva
Shelby Casas
Earl Cash
Emmalyn Dupree
Aaliyah Gibbons
Keira Henry
Xi Xi Hu
Carlos Pulquerio
Noelle Jones
Ailian Lin
Andres Rivas
Zachary Towne
Kyle Ventura
Craig Wells
Colette Williams
Alanna Wormwood
Cleann Davis
Julio Inga
Kristen Pyke
Craig Woodworth
Tom Langen
Sita Krishnan
Costel Darie
Jennifer Knack
He Dong
Devon Shipp
Ken Wallace
Damien Samways
Rick McCluskey
Katie Fowler
Damien Samways
Mario Wriedt
Maria Gracheva
Tom Lufkin
Jennifer Knack
Lisa Legault
Mario Wriedt
Kevin Antshel
CSTEP Scholar
Mentor
Sudeep Adhikari
Jennipher Barreto
Dewayne Garner
Nikeisha Hamilton
Steve Sackey
Caleb Sherry
Jeff Smith
Tai Rackley
Anthony Yang
Qiaoling Zeng
Shane Rogers
Brian Helenbrook
Kevin Fite
Joseph Skufca
Thomas Ortmeyer
Artem Melman
M. Cheng Cheng
Ken Wallace
Jeanna Matthews
Jim Carroll
LSAMP Scholar
Mentor
Kevin Cave
Kristen Harvey
Joseph Skufca
He Dong
ASPIRE Scholar
Mentor
Ying Chen
Ashley Forshey
Megan Opitz
Bakari Smith
Sita Krishnan
Jan Scrimgeour
Michael Twiss
Larry Villasmil
Susceptibility of Immortalized Cells in
the Transformation Zone
Gabriela Arita-Cveva
Craig Woodworth, PhD,
Mentor
Department of Biology
Gabriela is a junior studying
at Mercy College in Exercise
Science with a concentration
in Clinical Sciences. She is
from Long Island, NY. In
addition to being a McNair
and CSTEP scholar, Gabriela
holds the position of Secretary
for the Exercise Science club.
After graduating from Mercy,
Gabriela plans to attend
Podiatric medical school with
goals to become a podiatric
surgeon with special care in
children.
8
ABSTRACT: Individuals infected with
high-risk human papillomaviruses have a high
risk of developing cervical cancer. Two types of
HPVs, 16 and 18, cause most cervical cancers.
Although HPV infections occur throughout the
cervix, most cervical cancers develop in the
transformation zone. We are exploring the
possibility that cells from the transformation
zone are particularly susceptible to
immortalization (an early stage of cancer
development) by HPV-16 or HPV-18 DNA. To
answer this question, Human epithelial cells
were cultured from three regions of the cervix
(ectocervix, endocervix and transformation
zone) and transfected with HPV-16 and HPV18 Human papillomavirus (HPV) DNAs.
Preliminary results indicate that HPV-16
extended the lifespan of cells from each region,
but that cells from the transformation zone
were immortalized less efficiently than cells
from ectocervix. However, variability exists in
results using cells from different patients, so
these studies are ongoing to determine
whether differences in immortalization
efficiency are reproducible.
Golden-winged and Hybrid Warbler
Breeding Populations and their Habitat
Differences in Northern New York
Shelby CasasC
Tom Langen, PhD, Mentor
Department of Biology
McNair scholar Shelby, is
a junior majoring in
Biology from Dallas
Texas. She is apart of the
prestigious Clarkson
Honors program and has
made the President’s List
on four occasions. Shelby’s
long term career goal is to
become a research
scientist.
9
ABSTRACT: The golden-winged warbler
(Vermivora chrysoptera) has suffered a
severe population decline due to the
decrease in shrubland habitat, and
hybridization with the blue-winged
warbler (Vermivora pinus). Upper and
Lower Lakes and Fish Creek State
Wildlife Management Areas are New
York State managed regions where
there is a documented golden-winged
warbler populations. However there is
no data on population size of goldenwinged and blue-winged/golden-winged
hybrid warblers. Thus golden-winged
warblers and hybrids were located
through playbacks at points that were
found in the summer of 2013. A total of
4 phenotypic golden-winged and 4
hybrid warblers were found this
summer. The next step is to analyze the
habitat differences to assist in habitat
improvement of sites favored by goldenwinged warblers.
Biocompatible surfaces of antibacterial
cationic PEGylated copolymers
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Earl Cash
Sita Krishnan, PhD Mentor
Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Earl Cash is a senior majoring in
Chemical Engineering at Clarkson
University, with an additional
interest in psychological studies.
From Whitesboro, NY, he
graduated from Notre Dame High
and became a McNair scholar in
the summer of 2014. After
graduating from college, Earl plans
on either attending graduate school
to earn an advanced degree in
Psychology, or earning a job that
deals primarily with holistic
problem solving in an engineering
environment, such as human
resource management.
10
ABSTRACT: Proliferation
of infectious
agents on biomaterials is a major
concern in biomedical implantation, as is
the biocompatibility of the biomaterial,
because of potential adverse effects of
the immune response. Cationic polymers
are cytotoxic toward bacterial cells, but
could also kill other cells of the body. We
aim to develop nontoxic cationic
antimicrobial coatings using synthetic
polymers and peptides. Antibacterial
activity of coatings prepared by photopolymerization was evaluated, in Prof.
He Dong's laboratory at Clarkson
University, by counting bacterial
colonies of Gram-positive S. aureus and
Gram-negative E. coli bacteria on the
membranes. Because of PEGylation, our
coatings are expected to be
biocompatible when in contact with body
tissues.
Proteomic Investigation of Saliva from Patients
with Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS) and
Matched Controls
Emmalyn Dupree
Costel Darie, PhD, Mentor
Department of Chemistry and
Biomolecular Science
Emmalyn is a junior majoring
in Biomolecular Science at
Clarkson University. Her
hometown is Massena, NY and
she will graduate from
Clarkson University in 2016.
Along with being a McNair,
CSTEP, and ASPIRE scholar,
Emmalyn performs research in
the area of Proteomics in her
free time, while also holding a
job in the Chemistry
department stockroom.
Emmalyn's career goal is to
become a medical researcher.
11
ABSTRACT: Saliva samples were analyzed
from patients with Smith-Lemli-Opitz
Syndrome (SLOS) and controls using SDSPAGE, in-gel trypsin digestion, and
nanoliquid chromatography-tandem mass
spectrometry (nanoLC-MS/MS) to investigate
the differences between the proteomes of
people with SLOS and controls. The pending
results will hopefully provide more
information in regards to the cause of SLOS
from a proteomic stand point, potentially
leading to better treatments and an allaround better understanding of the disorder.
These results may also shed some light on the
possible link between SLOS and Autism
Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as ASD is a
common symptom of SLOS. This could
possibly lead to better diagnosis, treatment
and understanding of ASD as well.
Authors: Emmalyn Dupree, Megan Borland,
Kelly Wormwood, Alisa G. Woods, Costel C.
Darie
The Effects of Peer Victimization on Memory
Aaliyah Gibbons
Jennipher Knack, PhD, Mentor ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to
Department of Psychology
examine the effects of peer victimization on
memory. College students (N = 99) completed
online questionnaires about high school and current
peer victimization and later completed the CVLT-II
to assess memory. Participants who reported being
bullied in high school and who were currently
Aaliyah is a junior McNair
scholar who is majoring in
Biology and Interdisciplinary
Social Science. She also has a
minor in Psychology, a Pre
Med concentration, and hopes
to become a psychiatrist one
day. In addition to being a
McNair scholar, Aaliyah is
involved in multiple on
campus organizations and
volunteer activities. She will
be graduating in the Spring of
2016 and plans to attend
medical school.
12
bullied had poorer memory on the 2nd and 3rd
immediate recall trials than participants who were
bullied in high school but not currently bullied. The
results demonstrate that peer victimization
negatively impacts memory. The results may also
explain why bullied children do worse in school
than non-bullied children.
Supramolecular Peptide Assemblies as Novel
Antimicrobial Therapies
Keira Henry
He Dong
He He Dong, PhD, Mentor
Department of Chemistry and
Biomolecular Science
Keira Henry is a Senior
Chemical and Biological
Engineer at the University at
Buffalo. She also minoring in
Mathematics as well. Her
hometown is the Bronx, NY
and her plans after graduation
are to attend graduate school
or attain a job in industry
working with formulations.
She is a McNair, LSAMP, and
CSTEP scholar and active
member on the University at
Buffalo Step Troupe.
13
Abstract: Drug-resistant bacterium or
super bugs has become a significant
challenge in the medical and food
packing sectors with limited safe and
practical solutions. Developing effective
treatments requires comprehensive
understanding of their morphology and
how they evolve in the natural
environment. From previous work in Dr.
Dong’s lab, supramolecular peptide
assemblies have been demonstrated to
have broad-spectrum antimicrobial
activities. In this work, Mycobacterium
smegmatism was used as a safer
substitute for the deadlier super bugs of
Mycobacterium that causes tuberculosis.
Experiments and data was focused on the
determination of the timeline of bacteria
evolving to eventually control and
eradicate drug-resistant bacteria.
Synthesizing Gradient Copolymers Using RAFT Polymerization
Y
Xi Xi Hu
Devon Shipp, PhD, Mentor
Department of Chemistry
and Biomolecular Science
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ABSTRACT: This research focuses on the
synthesis of gradient copolymers via reversible
addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT)
polymerization. These polymers have the
potential as shape memory materials, but in
order to do so require a broad glass transition.
Two monomers, n-butyl acrylate and tert-butyl
acrylate were selected because their
homopolymer products have a large difference
Xi Xi is a junior chemistry
major at Union College. She
is from Queens, NY. She is
the vice president of Asian
Student Union and the
mentor coordinator of
Chemistry Club at Union
College. Her long term
career goal is become a
research scientist.
in glass transition temperatures. Copolymers
consisting of n-butyl acrylate and tert-butyl
acrylate with different monomer ratios were
successfully prepared. High conversions, high
molecular weights and low dispersities were
observed. Shape memory studies will form the
basis of future work.
14
Function of the Notch signaling pathway in formation of the
stem
compartment in the development of the intestinal
stem cell within th
b
sh
Carlos Pulquerio
Ken Wallace, PhD, Mentor
Department of Biology
ABSTRACT: Our study focuses on development
of the intestinal stem cell compartment within
zebrafish embryos and juveniles. We are analyzing
function of the Notch signaling pathway in stem
cell compartment development in the intestinal
epithelium. In mammals, stem cells are at the base
Carlos is a senior studying at
Cornell University in
Biological Sciences with a
concentration in BioChemistry. He is from
Boonville, NY and he
graduated from MVCC in May
of 2013 with an Associates
Degree in Biology. In addition
to being a McNair and CSTEP
scholar, Carlos held the
position of President for the
Math club and Student
Congress at MVCC. After his
graduation from Cornell
University Carlos plans to
attend medical school.
15
of crypt and interdigitated by paneth cells, which
are secretory cells that only populate the small
intestine regulating stem cells and produce Notch
ligands. Notch signaling is active in the stem cells
and regulates proliferative activity. Our aim is to
understand the role of Notch signaling in
development of the intestinal stem cell
compartment and regulation of proliferation.
Mechanisms for Anti-Cancer Drug
Transportation
Noelle Jones
Damien Samways, PhD, Mentor
Department of Biology
Noelle is a junior McNair
scholar currently studying
at the University of
Cincinnati. She is majoring
in Biochemistry and
working part time in the
campus chemistry lab.
Noelle has plans to pursue
her PhD and attain
employment as a chemist.
16
ABSTRACT: Recent studies showed
that activation of a plasma
membrane receptor with the chili
pepper ingredient capsaicin,
facilitated delivery of a watersoluble local anesthetic selectively
into pain neurons, allowing for
greater and longer duration of effect.
Taking this into account, we
explored the possibility of using
purinoceptor agonists to facilitate
the entry of anti-cancer drugs to into
cervical cancer cells. We show that
purinoceptor agonists, ATP and
UTP, can stimulate the uptake of a
cytotoxic dye, Hoechst, and that this
subsequently causes cell death.
Results showed this effect was
blocked by the purinoceptor
antagonist PPADS.
Fluidized Bed and Tray Dryer
Ai lian Lin
Richard McCluskey, PhD, Mentor
Department of Chemical and
Biomolecular Engineering
McNairScholarAi-lian,is
fromBrooklyn,NY.Sheisa
juniormajoringinchemical
engineeringandwill
graduateinMay2016.Her
futureaspirationsareto
attendgraduateschoolin
theengineering%ield.
17
ABSTRACT: Intimate
contact between
an upward flowing gas and a bed of
granular material leads to “fluidized
bed” behavior. The mixing and
enhanced contact between the solid
and gas phases is advantageous for
absorption, chemical reaction, and
heat transfer processes. The role of
particle size on such properties as
bed height, minimum fluidization
velocity, and heat transfer rate has
been investigated using aluminum
oxide particles in a 10.5 cm
diameter bed. Experimental
measurements included bulk
density, bed pressure drop, and heat
transfer coefficient all as functions
of gas superficial velocity.
Dynamic Plan ng Decisions Using Hydrological and
Agricultural Models and the Dakota Framework
Andres Rivas
Katie Fowler, PhD, Mentor
Department of Mathematics and
Computer Science
Originally from Rochester,
NY, Andrés is a Computer
Science and Physics major
(with a minor in
Mathematics). He is involved
in: Clarkson Open Source
Institute (COSI), Math Club,
LSAMP, McNair, and CSTEP.
He will graduate from
Clarkson in 2017. Andres
plans to attend graduate
school and then go on for his
PhD with his final career goal
becoming a college professor.
18
ABSTRACT: Adap ng to unpredictable
changes in climate condi ons and consumer
demand is essen al to maintaining the
profitability of a farm. Simultaneously, reducing
groundwater usage is essen al for
environmental sustainability. This research
seeks to aid farmers in decision making by
implemen ng a framework that uses
mathema cal models and simula on-based
op miza on to generate me-dependent crop
rota on strategies. Moreover, this study will
assess whether me-dependent crop rota on
strategies can significantly impact profit, water
use, and devia on from demand. The
framework will act as a “virtual farmer" that
will select from a set of possible choices based
on considera ons of these three compe ng
objec ves.
Mechanisms for Anti-Cancer Drug
Transportation
Zachary Towne
ABSTRACT: Recent studies showed
that activation of a plasma membrane
Damien Samways, PhD, Mentor
receptor with the chili pepper
Department of Biology
ingredient capsaicin, facilitated
delivery of a water-soluble local
anesthetic selectively into pain
neurons, allowing for greater and
longer duration of effect. Taking this
into account, we explored the
possibility of using purinoceptor
agonists to facilitate the entry of anticancer drugs to into cervical cancer
riginally from
cells. We show that purinoceptor
Connecticut, Zachary is
agonists, ATP and UTP, can
a Senior graduating in
stimulate the uptake of a cytotoxic
December, 2014. He is a
dye, Hoechst, and that this
McNair scholar majoring in
subsequently causes cell death.
Biology. Zachary is the
President of Tri-Beta Honors
Results showed this effect was
Society and an active member
blocked by the purinoceptor
of Doctors without Borders.
antagonist PPADS.
Zachary plans to pursue a
PhD in neuroscience and then
attain employment as a
college professor.
19
Enhancing Adsorption Properties of Metal-Organic
Frameworks Through Post-Synthetic Incorporation of
Zwitterionic Entities
Kyle Ventura
Mario Wriedt, PhD, Mentor
Department of Chemistry
and
Biomolecular Science
Kyle Jude Ventura is currently a
Junior at Clarkson university
studying Chemical Engineering with
a concentration in materials
engineering. He's involved in the
student government on campus, as
well as the honors program and the
campus acapella singing group, the
Goldennotes. After graduate school,
he plans on pursuing a research
position in academia. He loves
teaching others, and is passionate
about learning. His dream job is to be
on a team that designs new materials
to be used in the exploration and
development of intrastellar space.
20
ABSTRACT: The release of carbon dioxide
through flue gas exhausted by power plants
is a modern issue affecting the world. While
alternative energy strategies are underway,
there are needs to decrease carbon dioxide
emissions. Metal-organic frameworks
(MOFs) have been successfully used to
adsorb carbon dioxide due to their porous
nature and chemical characteristics. In this
research project, MOFs are modified after
being synthesized (commonly called postsynthetic modification (PSM)) to incorporate
zwitterionic moieties, which ultimately
increase the gas adsorption abilities of the
MOF. The newly modified MOFs have been
analyzed for their structures, porosities,
stabilities, and gas adsorption capabilities
compared to their unmodified versions.
Analytic techniques used include powder and
single crystal x-ray diffraction,
thermogravimetric analysis (TGA),
differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), BET
surface analysis, and hydrogen nuclear
magnetic resonance. These modified MOFs
selectively capture the carbon dioxide by
using a zwitterionic moiety formed from by a
pyridinium-carboxylate functionality.
Nanopore Ga ng with a Tethered DNA Molecule
Craig Wells
Maria Gracheva, PhD, Mentor
Department of Physics
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<Craig
is a Senior McNair
scholar studying Physics and
Math at Clarkson University.
He is an active participant in
the Math club and has
continued doing research
from his summer experience
into the Fall Semester. Craig
plans to continue his
schooling by enrolling in a
PhD program in the Fall of
2015 and his long term career
goal is to be a college
professor.
21
ABSTRACT: DNA interac on with a
solid-state membrane carrying a
nanopore is important for the
development of electronic sensors. A
DNA chain tethered to a silicon dioxide
membrane with a nanopore subject to a
me-dependent applied electrolyte bias
is studied u lizing Brownian Dynamics.
Posi ve electrolyte biases force the
tethered DNA to extend into the pore
while an extended strand escapes the
nanopore when the bias is switched to
zero. We measure the me it takes to
transi on from one equilibrium posi on
to the other. Understanding the
dynamical behavior of the tethered DNA
will facilitate further advances in the
area of nanotechnology.
Changing Fate – From Fibroblasts to
Intervertebral Disk Cells
Colette Williams
Thomas Lufkin, PhD, Mentor
Department of Biology
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con-
Colette is originally from
Freeport, Bahamas. She is in
her junior year and
is studying Biology at
Lehman College in the Bronx,
New York City. She is a
member of the Lehman
Scholars Program, a NERA
MedPrep scholar, and a proud
McNair scholar. Upon
graduation, Colette plans on
pursuing an M.D/ Ph.D.
22
ABSTRACT: Reprogramming of
committed, terminally differentiated cells to
induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells or
transdifferentiation between cell lineages
has recently revolutionized the field of
regenerative medicine, ideally rendering
the patient as donor for tissue replacement
and as such avoiding host-graft rejection.
This concept is particularly appealing for
degenerative disc disease, a progressive
illness without acute need for tissue
transplantation if detected early. In the
past, reprogramming was readily achieved
using mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) of
low passage number yet remained
challenging for mature tissue sources. Here
we analyze the impact of media additives
and culture systems commonly used for
IVD cells on the fate change of MEF by
assaying for key transcription factors
involved in IVD development such as Pax1
and Sox9 as well as expression of Col2a1,
abundant in the extracellular matrix of the
IVD using the house keeping genes b-Actin
and Gapdh as controls. For the analysis of
future transdifferentiation experiments we
developed a time and cost effective
expression profiling assay for monolayer
cell culture in 96-well plates based on RNA
in situ hybridization, termed PISH.
Peer Victimization, Mental Health, and
Cognitive Processing
Alanna Wormwood
Jennifer Knack, PhD, Mentor
Department of Psychology
Alanna is a senior McNair Scholar
who is majoring in Psychology and
History and minoring in Cognitive
Neuroscience. She is from Beaver
Falls, NY. In addition to receiving
Clarkson’s Leadership Award,
Alanna is a research assistant in
the psychology department and
holds the position of treasurer for
Psi Chi, Clarkson’s Psychology
Honors Society. She is a peer
educator for First Year Seminar and
is a member of SPSS and APA.
After graduating, Alanna plans to
attend graduate school to become a
forensic psychologist.
23
ABSTRACT:
We expected being bullied
would increase depression and social
interaction anxiety which would reduce
rational and intuitive processing. Students (N
= 182) enrolled in introductory psychology
classes completed a series of online
questionnaires that assessed peer
victimization, depression and social
interaction anxiety, and cognitive processing
style (i.e., rational vs. experiential). Peer
victimization predicted depressive symptoms
which predicted social interaction anxiety
which predicted rational processing. Likewise,
peer victimization predicted depressive
symptoms which predicted experiential
processing. This information suggests the way
mental health factors mediate the relationship
between peer victimization and processing
depends on the type of processing being
affected.
THE ROLE OF EMOTIONAL ACCEPTANCE IN THE
LINK BETWEEN MOTIVATION AND SELFREGULATION
Abstract: How does a person’s motivational state impact
their ability to self-regulate? Does mindfulness play a role? This
Cleann Davis
research explores the effect of mindfulness in explaining how
Lisa Legault, PhD, Mentor
Department of Psychology
motivation is related to self-regulation. Participants (N=130)
were randomly assigned to an autonomous motivation or
controlled motivation condition. They then completed a state
measure of mindfulness, which included indices of emotional
awareness and emotional acceptance. Their self-regulatory
capacity was measured using two instruments – the Stroop Test
– which is an inhibition task assessing the ability to override
dominant responses, and a goal-regulation essay – which was
independently coded
Brenda
Cleann is a senior majoring in
Psychology with a concentration
In Health Psychology. She is
originally from Rochester, NY.
In addition to her participation
in the summer 2014 McNair
program, Cleann is the
President of the National
Society of Black Engineers. She
also participated in the SPREE,
HEOP summer program as a
Resident Advisor .
for
indicators
of
difficulty,
specificity, content, and planning. Prior research indicates that
autonomous motivation leads to improved self-regulation,
relative to controlled motivation. However, little research has
examined why. Here, it was hypothesized that, because
autonomy promotes openness and low defensiveness in
responding, it would promote adaptive affective changes in selfregulation, as demonstrated by enhanced Stroop performance
and better goal regulation. Thus, we expected mindfulness to
mediate the link between motivation and self-regulation.
Implications for extending self-determination theory and
promoting goal attainment will be discussed.
24
goal
Zwitterionic MOF’s: Rational Design
and Fundamental Research
Julio Inga
Mario Wriedt, PhD, Mentor
Department of Chemistry
and
Biomolecular Science
Julio is a junior McNair scholar
studying Chemical engineering at
Clarkson University with a
concentration in biomolecular
engineering. Julio is the secretary
of Clarkson AIChE (American
Institute of Chemical Engineering)
and a safety officer for ChemE car
(Clarkson university SPEED
team). He is also conducting
research in MOFs (Metal Organic
frameworks). After graduation
Julio plans to attend graduate
school.
25
ABSTRACT: The purpose of my study
is to build metal-organic frameworks
(MOFs) based on the synthesis of
zwitterionic flexible organic ligands
and metal clusters. The procedure
includes synthesizing ligands using
various organic starting materials,
such as nicotinic acid and isonicotinic
acid. The conditions these reactions
were performed at, such as reactant
ratios, temperature, solvent, and time
were varied in order to analyze the
product yield of the resulting
materials. Also protection reactions of
the carboxylate groups were tested as a
further reaction parameter. These
protection reactions were carried out
with methanol and ethanol as solvents
as well as starting materials and an
acid catalyst. Finally, once it was
verified that the produced material was
the desired ligand using NMR
techniques, it was placed in a vial with
metal salts and solvent and left in an
oven at high temperatures until the
desired MOF crystals were formed.
Public and Self-Stigma in College Students Diagnosed
with Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ABSTRACT: Stigma that is directed towards
Kristen Pyke
Kevin Antshel, PhD, Mentor
Syracuse University
Department of Psychology
Kristen is a Senior McNair
scholar who is majoring in
Psychology at Syracuse
University. She calls
Hogansburg, NY home and
plans to return to her
hometown after graduation.
Kristen’s long term career
goal is to become a clinical
Psychologist so she can assist
her community with their
emotional needs.
26
individuals diagnosed with psychiatric
disorders can affect their lives in many ways.
Different forms of stigma exist including public
stigma and self-stigma. Public stigma is
defined as holding negative attitudes towards
a group or person. Self-stigma occurs when a
stigmatized individual begins to internalize the
negative views held by others. In this study,
our primary aim will be to examine stigma in
attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD) using a sample of college students
(ages 18-25). Given the current controversies
associated with ADHD in college students (e.g.,
malingering of symptoms to obtain stimulant
medication), we are also interested in
examining how public and self-stigma may
relate to malingering. Our research design will
include three groups (typical college students,
college students diagnosed with ADHD, college
students who are coached to feign ADHD). All
participants will complete a questionnaire
designed to assess opinions of mental health
diagnoses (depression, ADHD), typical
problems as well as attitudes towards mental
health treatment. Our primary hypothesis is
that there will be a hierarchical pattern of
public and self-stigma: typical college students
will report most stigma towards mental health
conditions and college students with ADHD
will report the least.
Optimization of Anaerobic
Digester
Sudeep Adhikari
Shane Rogers, PhD, Mentor
Department of Civil and
Environmental Engineering
Sudeep is a senior majoring in
mechanical engineering at Clarkson
university. He is from Saratoga
Springs, NY. After his graduation in
December 2014 he plans on
obtaining employment in an industry
setting. His long term goal is to go to
graduate school after accumulating
some industrial work experience for
a few years. Aside from work, he
likes to take pictures; photography is
his hobby.
27
ABSTRACT: A pilot
scale two-stage
anaerobic digester located at Clarkson
University converts food wastes from
the university kitchen to biomethane
that can be used to heat a connected
greenhouse or produce electricity
through a co-generation system. The
digester consists of three reactor tanks
maintained at 100ºF for optimum
growth of acid-fermenting and
methanogenic organisms. In this work,
we present information regarding the
sustainability of the anaerobic digester
in regards to energy balance and
optimization of biomethane
production. Diversion of organic
wastes from landfills and beneficial
reuse of digested products as fertilizers
are also presented.
Computer Modeling of the Lake Placid Luge Track
to Op mize Performance
Jennipher Barreto
Brian Helenbrook, PhD, Mentor
Department of Mechanical
and
Aeronautical Engineering
Originally from Venezuela, Jennipher
Barreto is a junior transfer
CSTEP ,LSAMP member majoring in
Aeronautical Engineering . She’s also
an active participant in NSBE. Her
free time is well spent giving to the
community with Silver Wings as well
enjoying Clarkson’s Salsa/ Spanish
Club. She has a passion for research
and was awarded a research award
after excelling at Rochester Institute
of technology in the Nano-Bio
Interface Laboratory. She has also
been given a Leadership award and
hopes to one day gather all her skills
and become an astronaut.
28
ABSTRACT: The purpose of the
project is to develop a computer
model of the Lake Placid luge track.
The model will be used for virtual
training of athletes as well as post-run
digital analysis. A model of the
bobsled track has been completed
previously, but the men’s and women's
luge tracks start at a different location
and then merge with the bobsled
track. To create the start, data from
the Olympic Research and
Development Authority (ORDA) was
used. This data contains the definition
of the curves and slopes of the track
and the merge point with the bobsled
track. From this data, a 1D spline
model of the start was created in
Matlab and merged with the bobsled
track. This 1D model can then be
used with cross-section data to create
the 3D model of the track.
Gait Lab Validation of Direct Force
Measurement in a Transfemoral Prosthesis
Dewayne Garner
Kevin Fite, PhD, Mentor
Department of Mechanical
and
Aeronautical Engineering
Dewayne Garner Jr is a sophomore at
Onondaga Community College (OCC).
He is a member of CTSEP and LSAMP
who is majoring in Math and Science.
He is from Syracuse, NY and will be
graduating from OCC in May of 2015.
He plans on majoring in Biomedical
Engineering at a four year institution
in the fall of 2015. Upon obtaining his
bachelors in biomedical engineering he
wants to obtain his PhD in
Neuroengineering. His long term goal
is to open up an engineering business
with his father that manufacturer’s
equipment that will enhance the
medical industry.
29
ABSTRACT: Technological advancements in
prosthetic limbs for individuals with lower-limb
amputation have resulted in a number of
microprocessor-controlled knee and ankle systems
in the commercial market. Such systems have the
potential to provide enhanced and expanded
functionality by being able to actively react to
changes in terrain or gait. However, the extent to
which this potential is realized in practice remains
an open question. There are multiple methods to
evaluate the performance of the amputee limb
system. The conventional approach to gait analysis
involves motion capture cameras and floorembedded force transducers that are limited to
laboratory settings that fail to adequately simulate
real-world locomotor function. Alternatively, the
approach of direct force measurement provides gait
assessments via sensors directly integrated within
the prosthetic limb system. This method, when
combined with wireless data transmission, enables
continuous measurement of prosthetic-limb
performance in field settings unsuitable for
conventional gait analysis. The objectives of this
effort are to compare the prosthetic-limb kinetics as
measured by limb-integrated transducers to that
obtained via conventional gait analysis and
ultimately validate direct force measurement as a
tool for field evaluation of prosthetic-limb
performance. The work to be presented will
discuss the technical details of each system and the
progress to date in the collection and analysis of
gait data from a single patient with unilateral
transfemoral amputation.
Optimizing Knowledge Transmission in Broadcast
Networks
Nikeisha Hamilton
Joseph Skufca, PhD, Mentor
Department of Mathematics
Nikeisha Hamilton is a junior
studying at Clarkson
University in Applied
Mathematics with a
concentration in actuarial
science. She calls New York
City home and plans to return
there after graduation. In
addition to being a CSTEP
Scholar, she is a member of
the SIAM chapter at Clarkson
University. Nikeisha’s long
term career goal is to be an
actuary.
30
ABSTRACT: Our research studies
flow of information in a broadcast
networks (such as Twitter), where we
want to understanding how the network
structure and node communication
procedures affect the ability of the
network to move information. Our
approach is to model these networks
using directed graphs, with information
represented as discrete messages passed
between nodes of the graph. By
evaluating performance of the networks
and node communication procedures, we
are able to identify “good” network
configurations with respect to knowledge
sharing. Our model might be applicable
to problems in sensor networks, cell
signaling, or other complex networks
with unidirectional communication.
Improving and Effectively Monitoring
the Reliability and Quality of Power
Steve Sackey
Thomas Ortmeyer, PhD, Mentor
Department of Electrical
and
Computer Engineering
ABSTRACT: Monitoring power systems is
essential for their proper operation. By
monitoring power systems useful data can be
acquired that can help prevent problems down
the line. Useful tools for monitoring power
systems are Intelligent Electronic Devices
(IED). In this project, a networked system of
IEDs is being developed that monitors voltage
and frequency variations during normal
conditions, and monitors a three phase
Steve is a senior studying
transformer to detect failures. The system is
Electrical Engineering at
capable of monitoring and archiving operating
Clarkson University. He is
from the Bronx, NY and
plans to graduate May 2015 data and alarm and failure data.
with a BSEE. After
graduation from Clarkson
University, Steve plans on
attending graduate school.
31
The Synthesis of New Fluorescein and
Xanthone Based Dyes for the Fluorescent
Labeling of Proteins
Caleb Sherry
Artem Melman, PhD, Mentor
Department of Chemical
And
Biomolecular Engineering
Caleb is a Senior majoring in
Biomolecular Science. He is
actively involved in the
Clarkson University Pep
Band. Caleb plans to attend
medical school after
graduation and specialize in
General Medicine.
32
ABSTRACT: One of the central goals of modern
biochemistry is the selective functionalization of
proteins. Modifying proteins with specialized
functional groups at certain points along the strand
allows scientists to control the folding of the protein.
Additionally, these functional groups can serve as
labels to track the protein, or even facilitate targeted
drug delivery. Currently, the most popular method
used to functionalize proteins relies on the
modification of cysteine or lysine residues in the
protein. However, this method is obviously limited to
proteins containing cysteine and lysine residues.
Additionally, the number of these residues present in
the protein, as well as their location along the protein
strand greatly limits the potential for selective
modification. This research focuses on the development
of a chelating ligand which would be capable of binding
to the histidine tag of any given protein via a
polydentate complex formed in the presence of zinc
ions. Once bound to the histidine tag, the ligand could
itself be modified, or be fitted with a group capable of
selectively modifying the protein to which it is bound.
In this way, this ligand could be used to functionalize
any protein containing a histidine tag. Because
histidine tags can be attached to nearly any protein
molecule, such a ligand would allow for the
functionalization of many different proteins, rather
than only those containing cysteine and lysine.
A Physics-based Compact Thermal Model for Dynamic Electrothermal Simulation of FinFET Devices
Jeff Smith
Ming-Cheng Cheng, PhD, Mentor
Department of Electrical
and
Computer Engineering
Jeff is a senior at Clarkson
University pursuing the Physics/
Mathematics dual degree and
Electrical Engineering minor. He has
worked on compact thermal modeling
of FinFET device structures since
January 2013 under Dr. Cheng with
funding through the McNair and
CSTEP programs. In addition to his
research, Jeff has been a Teaching
Assistant for Differential Equations
and Physics I/II since August 2012,
has been involved with the physics
club and has served as a grader for
quantum and thermal physics. After
his graduation, Jeff plans to pursue
the PhD degree in Electrical
33
ABSTRACT: The FinFET is the most
attractive choice of field-effect transistor
structure for advancing CMOS technology
past the 30 nm node due to its compact
structure, superior electrostatic control,
effective suppression of short channel effects
and compatibility with existing CMOS
fabrication technology. The lower thermally
conductive BOX prevents effective heat
removal from the FinFET active region,
leading to self-heating effects that impact
device performance and reliability. An
effective compact thermal model is proposed
that captures the time evolution of selfheating needed for FinFET thermal
management and can be implemented in a self
-consistent electro-thermal simulation
environment. The thermal model is calibrated
via extraction of thermal capacitance
representing the storage of heat in the fins/
channels, pads and metal/poly wires in the
FinFET. The model is constructed in SPICE
and validated against numerical simulations
of the FinFET in 3D. Steady-state and
dynamic electro-thermal simulations are then
performed to study the effects of self-heating
on FinFET electronic performance.
Development of Notch receiving secretory cells within
the intestinal epithelium
Tai SymoneRackley
Ken Wallace, PhD, Mentor
Department of Biology
Tai-Symone is a Senior studying at
Clarkson University dual majoring in
Biological Sciences and Psychology,
minoring in Cognitive Neuroscience
with a concentration in Health
Psychology. She is from Albany, NY
and will graduating in May of 2015.
In addition to being a CSTEP
scholar, Tai recently returned from
Studying abroad in England from
Northumbria University. After her
graduation from Clarkson University,
Tai plans to attend medical school.
.
34
ABSTRACT: The intestinal epithelium
has proliferative compartments within
mammals. In mammals stem cells reside
at the base of the crypt and are
interdigitated by Paneth cells that
regulate stem cells. Paneth cells produce
Notch ligand and Notch signaling is
activated in stem cells. Notch is used in
stem cells to regulate proliferative
activity. The intestinal anatomy of
zebrafish complements the anatomy
structure of the mammalian small
intestine. We have identified secretory
cells that receive Notch signaling during
embryogenesis and juvenile phase.
Intestinal Notch receiving secretory
cells appear to regulate proliferation and
epithelial polarity.
Mining Twitter Data for Social Trends
Anthony Yang
Jeanna Matthews, PhD, Mentor
Department of Mathematics
and
Computer Science
Anthony is a sophomore
majoring in computer science
at Clarkson University. He is
an active CUPO student who
enjoys taking part in all
workshops and conferences
that are offered. His future
goals and aspirations involve
working with computers and
data.
35
The enormous popularity
of social media sites such as Twitter
has created a valuable set of data on
all sorts of human interactions. Since
Twitter records every user activity, it
is a useful resource for the analysis of
social trends and social networks. We
fetch data about tweets and user
profiles using an API provided by
Twitter. We received the base data and
also metadata such as time created,
number of followers, tweets, etc. This
information is then analyzed for
correlations with real world
phenomena. The objective of this
project is to study the rise and fall of
Twitter memes.
ABSTRACT:
Navigation used in Agriculture
Robotics
Qiaoling Zeng
Jim Carroll, PhD, Mentor
Department of Electrical
and
Computer Engineering
Qiaoling is a junior
majoring in Electrical
Engineering. She is
originally from China and
is happy to be attending
college in the United
States.
Qiaoling’s future
aspirations are to attend
graduate school and attain
employment as a Product
Design Engineer.
36
Agriculture is one of the
oldest and most important economic
activity in the world, providing the
food, feed, fiber, and fuel necessary for
our survival. With development of
technology, increasing of population,
and the shortage of farming land, the
agriculture robotics are invented and
they play important roles in increasing
the agriculture productions. In order to
maximize the agriculture production,
the robots are designed in different
types to use in agriculture in order to
gain the maximum profits.
ABSTRACT:
Speaker Recognition at a Distance
Kevin Cave
Joseph Skufca, PhD, Mentor
Department of Mathematics
and Computer Science
Kevin is a senior majoring in
Electrical Engineering. In
addition to being involved in
the Summer 2014 CUPO
research program, Kevin is
also a member of NSBE and
the Clarkson Football team.
His future aspirations involve
attaining job as an Electrical
Engineer.
37
ABSTRACT: We consider the impact of speaker
-to-microphone distance on automated speaker
identification, with particular focus on the
mismatch in distance between the condition at
the time the speaker was enrolled into the system
and the conditions under which we attempt to use
this system for identification. Previous research by
others indicates that distance mismatch can
significantly degrade system performance. Our
approach to improving identification performance
will be to designing a software filter that'll make a
distance at 5 feet sound like a distance at 34 feet,
such that enrollment conditions (at 5ft) can be
made to better match test condition (at 34
feet). We will show that applying such a filter can
reduce the identification errors. If successful, we
can create more filters, each tailored for different
distances. We measure the different distances and
the recorded speakers saying two phrases and use
MATLAB to analyze their wave data and create the
filter using single processing tools and math
models math models. Our presentation will
explain the basics of speaker identification, the
impact of distance mismatched and how a plane
of filter to sweet simple improve the speaker
recognition.
Supramolecular Peptide Assemblies for
Antimicrobial Therapies
Kristen Harvey
ABSTRACT: Multidrug resistant
He Dong, PhD, Mentor
Department of Chemistry
Kristen is sophomore who is
majoring in Chemistry at
Clarkson University. She calls
Nazareth, PA home and plans
to return their after
graduation. Kristen was on the
Presidents List at Clarkson
during the Fall 2013 and
Spring 2014 semesters and she
is apart of the prestigious
Honors program. Kristen’s long
term career goal is to become a
pharmacist.
38
Tuberculosis (TB) has become more
prominent and has increased the need
for alternative drug therapy. Peptides
are currently being researched for
potential drug delivery. In this study,
the minimal inhibitory concentration
(MIC) of series of de novo designed
peptides was conducted. For this
research, we used bacteria,
Mycobacterium smegmatis, for all the
experiments. The MIC value is an
indicative of the efficacy to inhibit the
visible growth of bacteria. Resistance of
the peptide was tested with and
compared with rifampicicn, the main
antibiotic used against TB. Based on the
preliminary results, we believe that
these peptides may have potential to kill
TB and more importantly to prevent
drug resistance.
Biocompatible surfaces of antibacterial cationic
PEGylated copolymers
Ying Chen
Sita Krishnan, PhD, Mentor
Department of Chemical
and
Biomolecular Engineering
Ying is a sophomore at Clarkson
University majoring in Chemical
Engineering. She is a member of
Clarkson Intercultural Ambassador
Program, CUPO Advisory Board,
and also the Activity Chair for
Society of Asian Scientists and
Engineers. She joined the Honors
Program in her sophomore year.
She is currently a lab assistant for
Dr. Paul Goulet at Clarkson
University. She plans to obtain her
Master’s degree after her
graduation.
39
ABSTRACT: Proliferation
of infectious
agents on biomaterials is a major concern
in biomedical implantation, as is the
biocompatibility of the biomaterial,
because of potential adverse effects of the
immune response. Cationic polymers are
cytotoxic toward bacterial cells, but could
also kill other cells of the body. We aim to
develop nontoxic cationic antimicrobial
coatings using synthetic polymers and
peptides. Antibacterial activity of coatings
prepared by photo-polymerization was
evaluated by counting bacterial colonies
of Gram-positive S. aureus and Gramnegative E. coli bacteria on the
membranes. Because of PEGylation, our
coatings are expected to be biocompatible
when in contact with body tissues.
A miniature on-stage incubator for
single molecule experiments on living
cells
Ashley Forshey
ABSTRACT: The observation of living cells
Jan Scrimgeour, PhD, Mentor
Department of
Physics
Ashley is a junior ASPIRE scholar
studying Environmental engineering and
Physics at Clarkson University. She is
from Scotia, NY and graduated from
Scotia-Glenville Senior High School in
June 2012. She has received Dean's list
for four consecutive semesters. In
addition to being an ASPIRE scholar,
Ashley is a member of the Varsity
Women's Cross Country team, the Varsity
Women's Nordic Ski team, and a
contracted cadet in the Army ROTC
program. After graduation, Ashley plans
on becoming a reservist in the US Army
and attending graduate school for
Geophysics.
40
is essential to understanding the physical
mechanisms underpinning living systems. Light
microscopy is one of the most popular techniques for
observing cells in the living state, however, in order
to observe living cells on a microscope the cells must
be placed in an environment to sustain life, three
factors must be controlled; temperature, humidity,
and carbon dioxide concentration. These living cells
are then observed at high resolution using photo
activated localization microscopy (PALM). The focus
of this project is to design and build a system that
will control the temperature, humidity and carbon
dioxide levels of an environmental chamber or
incubator. The environmental chamber is set on the
stage of the microscope and is put in place in order to
keep mammalian cells alive for observation. The cells
need to be kept at body temperature 37 degrees
Celsius and also maintaining the pH of the system to
match the physiological levels of the cells, with 95 %
humidity and 5 % carbon dioxide environment.
Finally the stability of the chamber will be assessed
and optimized so that live cells can be observed using
PALM.
The Effects of Molybdenum on Phytoplankton
Growth in the St. Lawrence River
Megan Opitz
Michael Twiss, PhD, Mentor
Department of Biology
Megan is a senior studying at
Clarkson University with a
major in Biology. She is from
Utica, NY. She has been on the
Deans list every semester during
her time at Clarkson thus far.
She has participated in the
Clarkson University student
orchestra and plays an active
role in the Clarkson Chapter of
Engineers without Borders.
Megan's long term goal is to
continue on to graduate school
and become a conservation
biologist.
41
ABSTRACT: The study of molybdenum
(Mo) helps us to understand nutrient
cycles in the Laurentian Great Lakes
since Mo is required for nitrate
assimilation by phytoplankton.
Variables studied were phosphate (a
limiting nutrient) Mo, and sulfate (an
inhibitor of molybdate). Growth was
analyzed by using chlorophyll-a
measurements and photosynthetic
efficiency. We expected to see phosphate
and Mo stimulate phytoplankton, as
was observed in 2013. If so, then we
expected that sulfate enrichment (at low
pollution levels) would inhibit the effect
of Mo. The strong stimulation by
phosphate and no observed influence by
Mo suggests that there were different
water qualities in the Saint Lawrence
River in 2013 and2014.
Wind Turbine Power Generation Efficiency
Bakari Smith
Larry Villasmil, PhD, Mentor
RIT
Department of Manufacturing
and
Mechanical Engineering
ABSTRACT: The advancement of
sustainable energy continues to vitalize maximizing
the amount of power extracted. With that in mind, the
goal of this research is to examine and improve the
efficiency of wind turbine power generation.
Specifically, this research explores how diffusers can
be used to accelerate air flow and improve wind
turbine efficiency. The research also investigates how
the diffuser’s orientation affects wind turbine
efficiency. This investigation is performed through
several experiments using a small scale turbine,
Bakari is a sophomore studying Electrical
Engineering with a concentration in
Electrical Power Engineering at Clarkson
University. He is from Rochester, NY and
has lived there all of his life. Over the
course of the past year, Bakari has been
named a Presidential Scholar both
semesters. In addition to being an
ASPIRE and LSAMP scholar, Bakari is
also President of Jazz Ensemble,
Academic Excellence Chair for the
National Society of Black Engineers
(NSBE), and a member of the Men's
Swimming Team. Bakari’s long term
career goal is to become an Electrical
Power Engineer.
42
various diffusers, and a wind tunnel. Likewise,
computer simulations are used to model this system
and support the data from the wind tunnel
experiments. Results show that diffusers aid in
efficiency, but the orientation does not significantly
affect performance. Therefore, it is best to continue
this investigation focusing on other diffuser
parameters in order to improve and advance this form
of sustainable energy.
2014 CUPO Summer Highlights
University of Buffalo National McNair Conference
Celebrating completion of research!
White Water Rafting
Final Banquet
43
CUPO PhD Recipients
Scholar Name
Graduate School &
Year of Graduation
Field of Study
Derek Lucey
SUNY Potsdam 98’
U of Buffalo 02’
Inorganic Chemistry
Yasheka Nicholson
CU 00’
MT Sinai Med 04’
Medicine
Sean Speese
CU 98’
U of Utah 05’
Neuroscience
Shawn Clark
CU 98'
FSU’06
Biochemistry
Blaine Bettinger
SLU 98’
Upstate Med 06’
Biochemistry
Brittany Mitchell
CU 98’
U Michigan 07’
Atmospheric Science
April Krumnow
CU 02’
Auburn 07’
Biomedical Sciences
Michele Gauger
CU 01’
UNC Chapel Hill 07’
BioChem/Biophysics
Mose Herne
CU 97'
BU 09’
Public Health
Brad Beechler
CU 00’
Colorado Boulder 09’
Atmospheric Sciences
Matthew Bennington
CU 04’
Notre Dame 09’
Aerospace Engineering
Damion Nero
CU 00’
NYU 09’
Bioinformatics
William Williams
CU 02’
U of Wisconsin-Mad 09’
Atomic Physics
James Nesteroff
CU 02’
Stonybrook 09’
Physics
Patricia Deshane
CU 02’
CU 10’
Engineering Sciences
Todd Deshane
CU 03’
CU 10’
Engineering Science
Danielle Bonsquet
CU 04’
Colorado Boulder
Research Methodology
Timothy Deschenes
CU 06’
U of Michigan 11’
Aerospace Engineering
John Garland
CU 00’
CU 11’
Physics
Samuel Emery
CU 04’
U Conn 11’
Physics
Tera Filion
Michael Brazell
CU 05’
CU 06’
U Mass Dartmouth 11’
CU 12’
Biomedical/Cell Biology
Mechanical Engineering
Alberto Roman
CU 06’
CU 13’
Mechanical Engineering
Stefanie Kring*
CU 08’
CU 14’
Scott Lalonde*
CU 08’
Dartmouth 14’
Environmental Science
& Engineering
Math
Dean Mastropietro*
CU 08’
Virginia Tech 14’
Chemical Engineering
Ashley Macner*
CU 07’
Cornell 14’
Chemical Engineering
*New PhD Recipient
44
UG University & Year
of Graduation