NJRSF Abstracts, 2006

BIOCHEMISTRY

BOTANY

BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE

CHEMISTRY

COMPUTER SCIENCE

EARTH and SPACE SCIENCE

ENGINEERING

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

MATHEMATICS

MICROBIOLOGY

MEDICINE and HEALTH

PHYSICS

ZOOLOGY

BIOCHEMISTRY

Anti-cancer Effects of Flavonoids on Human Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Cell Line: K-562

Flavonoids are found abundantly in soy products and are shown to exert different immunopharmacological properties in humoral and cellular immunity. In this study, as inhibitors of the cancer-promoting enzyme tyrosine kinase, two flavonoids, genistein and flavanone, are evaluated in antiproliferation and interleukin production on human chronic myelogenous leukemia cell line K-562. Evaluations are made under various concentrations of genistein and flavanone exposures through periods of 48, 72, and 96 hours. The performance of cell proliferation assay exhibits a hormetic curve that suggests inhibitory activities of genistein and flavanone at higher concentrations and stimulatory effects at lower concentrations. The levels of IL-2 and IL-4 cytokines, produced by K-562, are analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Both genistein and flavanone evoke apoptosis and interfere with the balance of IL-2 and IL-4 production in K-562. Results demonstrate genistein as a more effective flavonoid in its ability to inhibit the viability of K-562 cells via inhibition of cell proliferation and cytokine IL-2/IL-4 shift. It is shown that a concentration of 10-4 M of genistein over a 48 hour time frame displays the most effective antiproliferation activities out of the rest of the samples. This study suggests the effects of genistein and flavanone in prevention of some tumors and inhibition of tumorigenesis as potential chemopreventitive agents.

Post Mortem Human Brain Changes Associated with Tissue pH and RNA Quality.

The New York Brain Bank at Columbia University obtains post mortem human brain tissue for experimental investigations. We evaluated 26 brains with Huntington Disease neuropathological diagnosis and 10 controls for RNA integrity. In all cases post mortem interval range (0:10min-17hrs:55min) and pH (6.09-7.00) were recorded. Total RNA was extracted, quantified, and evaluated by agarose gel electrophoresis. We concluded that intact RNA can be obtained from post mortem human brain tissue even in patients with delayed post mortem interval. This research indicates that the post mortem interval does not determine the RNA quality therefore the quality of the tissue.

Protein, Lipid, and Carbohydrate Degradation in Human Pancreatic Enzyme Solution in vitro

This experiment used human pancreatic enzymes to determine the degradation rates of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. Samples of chicken breast, bacon fat, and carboxymethyl-cellulose, which were general sources of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates respectively, were added to a pancreatic enzyme solution, and the concentrations of digested protein, lipid, and carbohydrate were measured by assays every twenty minutes for three hours. Exponential rates of degradation were determined for each substrate by using comparisons with generated standard curves, and an equation was formulated that was based on the rate-limiting step. This analysis led to the identification of a process for determining the approximate amount of time required to digest food prior to athletic activity. The equation, wile validated by the experiment, can only be considered for food digestion up to 3 hours because the data show that the degradation rates may change after 3 hours.

DNA Extraction Protocol for Wheat Germ

Today, biotechnology is a prominent aspect of research and development. Scientists utilize genetics for various reasons, ranging from medical to agricultural purposes. To increase efficiency, all protocols for utilizing DNA must be optimally effective. One of the most basic and primary steps in employing DNA is to extract it. However, finding the quickest and largest yielding procedure needs to be improved. Thus, I propose to conduct a series of experiments in which I will extract DNA from wheat germ, a known source with a plethora of DNA, in order to find the most efficient protocol. By designing a better DNA collecting tool and varying the temperature of the ethanol, detergent, and salt-detergent solutions, I am confident that finding the best protocol will be achieved.

The Effects of Bisphenol A and Estradiol on Mouse Fibroblast Cells in Vitro and Peripheral Blood Cultures

Seo, Young IL Biochemistry. THE EFFECTS OF BISPHENOL A AND 17 B ESTRADIOL ON MOUSE FIBROBLAST CELLS IN VITRO, Academy for the Advancement of Science and Technology (Teacher: Donna Leonardi) The purpose of this project was to test the effect of the two estrogenic chemicals Bisphenol A and 17 B Estradiol on Mouse Fibroblast Cells in Vitro. Multiple tests accounted for secondary exposure of the other chemical to the primary exposure of one of these chemicals. The tests looked specifically at the change in mitotic rate in these cells. The fibroblast cells were cultured using a culture flask, and either estradiol or Bisphenol A in a solution of DMSO was added at the second and fifth day. The cells were cultured for a total of eight days in an incubator. Cell proliferation was measured using a hemocytometer and an ELISA machine using CellTiter 96 Aqueous One Reagent Cell Proliferation kit.

Quantifying the Cryopreservation of Beta Vulgaris Using Dimethyl Sulfoxide(DMSO)

It is known that Dimethyl Sulfoxide is sometimes used in the cryopreservation of tissues. The study of the cryopreservation of Beta Vulgaris was tested using Dimethyl Sulfoxide. Store bought Beta Vulgaris (beets) were used chosen to represent human tissue. The Beta vulgaris was cut into cylinders with a 1 inch diameter then soaked in a DMSO solution, as opposed to the control set which were soaked in a distilled water solution, then placed in the freezer. After being frozen the leakage of betacyanin was calculated using a spectrophotometer. It was found that when soaked in DMSO before freezing there was more light transmittance, then when soaked in water then frozen.

The Bioinformatics Approach on Actin Nucleation

Actin nucleation is a process that is vital to the life of Caenorhabditis elegans and virtually all forms of eukaryotic life. The regulation of actin nucleation is essential for many cellular processes including cell locomotion, axonal motion, as well as developmental morphology. The primary proteins responsible for C. elegans actin nucleation include the GEX family of proteins. Gex stands for “gut-on-the-exterior,” since GEX mutations cause C. elegans embryos to not undergo morphogenesis properly, resulting with gut cells on the outside of the embryo. By comparing the sequences of amino and nucleic acids of specific proteins in C. elegans and other organisms, it is possible to construct a phylogenetic tree, detailing the evolution of the genes involved in actin nucleation. Through a bioinformatics approach, it is possible to investigate far beyond traditional methods, providing a means to define relationships between organisms. With comparative genomics, it is possible to elucidate remarkable characteristics of this system, highlighting the similarities of actin nucleation processes throughout a variety of organisms.

The Effect of Curcumin on Copper Based Plaque

Alzheimer’s disease, a debilitating sickness, is rapidly rising in numbers all over the world. However, there is no direct way to pinpoint the origin of this disease because it has various causes. Studies confirm that one of the causes for Alzheimer’s disease is the plaque build up. One of the causes for this plaque build up is metal such as copper in the brain. The copper, which can be transmitted to the body simply by drinking water from metal pipes, cause the copper in the brain to become aggregated, which in turn cause it to bind together, constructing a plaque. It has also been verified, through research, that anti-oxidants have qualities that break bonds that proteins make. The anti-oxidant curcumin, the yellow pigment in making curry, has been known to have anti-oxidant properties. The purpose of this experiment was to examine the anti-oxidant properties of curcumin as they relate to dissolving plaque. Plaque molecules were formed which resulted in a precipitate. This was exposed to varied amounts of curcumin. Since curcumin can pass the blood brain barrier, this research supports the possibility of curcumin as a preventable measure against copper plaque in the brain. This research was proven significant with a critical T of 3.92 at a 99% significance level.

Intron conservation and divergence analysis using EST data in C. remanei

Comparison of cDNA sequences with genomic sequences allows us to predict intron locations. Using cDNA sequences from the C. remanei nematode, we have been able to determine the sequences, sizes, and relative locations of a number of introns. After using homology to determine putative functions for the mRNA precursors of our cDNA in C. remanei, we were able to analyze intron conservation as compared to exon conservation across three worm species, C. remanei, C. elegans, and C. briggsae. This data allowed us to explore the patterns of divergent and convergent evolution on the genetic level.

Troponin C in Artemia francisana

The subject of this experiment was to identify and analyze unknown genes in Artemia franciscana by comparing them to known genes in other organisms. The purpose was to determine evolutionary relationships and increase basic biological knowledge. If DNA is extracted and sequenced, and the sequence is analyzed utilizing bioinformatics, then a gene could be identified. Genes are conserved through evolution and the genetic code is almost universal. Therefore, comparative genomic analysis has proven to be an extremely valuable tool for elucidating, evolutionary relationships, basic biological concepts, and gene regulation. Pieces of DNA from A. franciscana were purified and sequenced and sequences were analyzed utilizing bioinformatics. One A. Franciscana DNA sequence matched to the Troponin C protein. This gene sequence was highly conserved among invertebrates but not with higher eukaryotes. The result was surprising since Troponin C is a major muscle protein in higher eukaryotes. This suggests the DNA sequence coded for a region of the Troponin C protein not involved in its function and thus, not as highly conserved as other regions of the protein.

Evolution of asp-6 Aspartyl Protease in Nematodes

Asp-6 aspartyl protease genes lie in a cluster and are well conserved, making them ideal models for studying the evolution of gene clusters. The evolution of asp-6 paralogs (gene copies) in three species of roundworms—C.remanei,C.elegans, and C.briggsae—were modeled. By comparing C.remanei asp-6 cDNA clones with the C.remanei genomic DNA, four paralogs were identified: two on the plus strand and two on the minus strand, an organization similar to that of C.elegans and C.briggsae. By comparing the paralogs, it was determined that the original asp-6 gene inverted and that each of the resulting paralogs duplicated again. C.briggsae paralogs showed a similar inversion/duplication pattern as C.remanei paralogs. The C.briggsae paralogs were more similar to corresponding C.remanei paralogs than to each other, suggesting that the inversion/duplication events occurred prior to the divergence of the species. The C.elegans paralogs were more similar to each other than to the paralogs in the other species, suggesting that the C.elegans genes duplicated independently from the other two roundworms. Since C.elegans paralogs independently developed an organization pattern similar to the organization patterns in C.remanei and C.briggsae, the paralog organization may have some evolutionary advantage; for example, a single regulatory site between inverted regions may control the expression of all four paralogs.

Correlations Between Unique Gene Sequences and Phenotype in Artemia Franciscana.

Many organisms contain common DNA sequences. The goal was to find similar DNA sequences of Artimia Franciscana and other organisms. Online DNA sequences were observed and compared to find similarities. Although a solid conclusion has not been formed, ongoing examination of DNA sequences may provide evidence for DNA sequences of Artimia Franciscana common to other organisms.

A lin-53-like Gene in C. remanei

Finding sequence similarities in genes of different species serves to indicate the corresponding functions of their proteins. A gene resembling lin-53 in C.elegans was identified from sequencing a C.remanei cDNA library. lin-53 mutants in C.elegans can lead to deficiencies in embryogenesis, including the formation of multiple vulva. lin-53 carries multiple WD repeats. A similarity search found 73% identity with the human Retinoblastoma binding protein 4 (RBBP4), a protein implicated in tumorgenesis. We will speculate on the function of lin-53 in the genus Caenorhabditis and the manner in which it performs its tasks. Ultimately, this analysis may reveal the role of RBBP4 in causing cancer.

Pbx1 and Pbx2 affect Hox gene expression and chondrogenesis during limb development

The development of the vertebrate body is very complex. Limbs form during embryogenesis as buds of tissue from the body wall. Subsequently, the formation and patterning of different skeletal elements from this relatively unorganized tissue is under the influence of Homeobox (Hox) genes and proteins. Pbx proteins collaboratively bind DNA with a large subset of Hox proteins to help execute this patterning. To determine the roles of Pbx in limb patterning, we performed numerous in vivo studies (via skeletal preparation and in situ hybridization) on mouse embryos lacking Pbx1 and Pbx2. These mutants (i.e., Pbx1-/-; Pbx2+/-) possessed severe defects in their limbs. We observed that Hox gene expression was spatially deregulated in these mutants, indicating a possible genetic basis for the observed skeletal defects. To explore a possible underlying cellular basis for these skeletal defects, we performed in vitro experiments (via micromass) on cartilage cells from these mutants. Accordingly, we have been able to gain some understanding as to how alterations in patterning genes and signals may influence cellular differentiation and proliferation in the developing limbs. Perhaps one day we will be able to understand, completely, the underlying mechanisms influencing cartilage development. This understanding would allow us to develop ways of regulating the development of cartilage and even repair damaged cartilage in cases like arthritis.

BOTANY

The Effects of Resistance Stimuli in the Prevention of TMV

The focus of this experiment was to determine whether salicylic acid, ascorbic acid, or 30% hydrogen peroxide can increase resistance to Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV) in Arabidopsis thaliana. If seeds soaked in various concentrations of salicylic acid, hydrogen peroxide, or ascorbic acid are exposed as mature plants to TMV, then the plants with seeds soaked in salicylic acid or hydrogen peroxide should demonstrate increased resistant to TMV infection. Seeds were soaked in 12%, 36%, and 60% of each stimulus and inoculated with TMV at three weeks of growth. 984 seeds were planted. 51 seedlings germinated. Seeds soaked in 12% hydrogen peroxide showed no symptoms of TMV. Seeds soaked in 60% hydrogen peroxide exhibited symptoms of TMV after only 2 days. Seeds soaked in all concentrations of ascorbic acid showed no symptoms of TMV. Seeds soaked in 12% and 60% salicylic acid showed symptoms of TMV after 7 days. This data suggests that low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide may increase plant resistance to TMV, while high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or administration of salicylic acid decreases resistance to TMV. Data suggests that ascorbic acid may also increase plant resistance to TMV.

We dont need grass with weed!

We determined how effective an herbicide is on grass during different stages of growth. The herbicide we tested is Mesotrione, and the grass we used for the experiment was Annual Blue. Turfgrass management affects many homes and the entire outdoor sports industry. We treated the soil with Mesotrione before seeding the Annual Blue and after seeding, in different quantities (lb per acre). Our results show that the most effective application is 3 lbs of Mesotrione per acre, before seeding. The pots with the best results varied from 90%-100% effectiveness. The otheres ranged from 0%-60%, and 85% in isolated cases. We found that the least effective application was after seeding at 1/2 lb per acre.

Can Coffee or Egg Shells be a fertilizer?

In our experiment we had planted four differernt types of plants. Grass, mint, baysle, and lime plants. of these for plants we ran a test to see if coffee grinds or egg shells would act as a type of fertilizer on the plants. We tested the coffee grinds and egg shells against a name brand fertilizer(Miricalgrow). The name brand fertilizer acted as the control were as the coffee grinds and egg shells acted as the variables for the experinment. We the experiment for two weeks for each individual type of plant taking measurements every other day. We kept the plants under constant plant light and watered the plants everyday.

The Effects of Caffeine on the Growth of African Violets (Santipaulia ionatha)

The purpose of this research was to determine whether concentrations of caffeinated water had a positive effect on the growth of African violets. Five trays containing 24 propagules each were watered with their specific concentrations of the caffeinated water mixture (10%, 20%, 30% and 40%). The fifth tray acted as the control and was watered with distilled water. After 42 days, all the propagules watered with the caffeinated water died. It was found that caffeinated water does not produce new growth in African violets in these concentrations.

The effect of various concentrations of calcium carbonate on Alternaria alternata

The purpose of the experiment was to observe the effect of calcium carbonate on Alternariaalternata, which is an allergenic fungus. An experiment was conducted early, which examined the sporulation of A.alternata affected by light exposure, temperature and calcium carbonate. The outcome suggested that the conidia production of A.alternata grown in half potato dextrose agar was affected by calcium carbonate, but not by various light conditions (Rhomela F. and et.al., 2000). To perform the experiment, 1mL of various concentrations of calcium carbonate was added to each group, except for the control. Group A, the control (5 agar plates) did not receive any calcium concentration (0 mL), group B with five agar plates received 5g/250mL of calcium concentration, and 2.5g/125mL of calcium concentration was added in Group C (5 agar plates). Group D (5 agar plates) acquired 1.25g/62.5mL of calcium concentration, while Group E (5 agar plates) obtained 0.625g/31.25mL of calcium concentration. Next, A.alternata was transferred from tubes into agar plates using sterilized inoculating loop and then it was diluted with 10 sup -2 concentration in potato dextrose agars, which was incubated at 28 sup o C for 48 hours. Preliminary data suggests that the control with zero mL of calcium carbonate will have the highest growth of A.alternata. However, agar plates containing 0.625g/31.25mL of calcium concentration (Group E) will decompose A.alternata faster than other concentrations. Hence, if preliminary data is accurate, then calcium carbonate can be used to prevent the enhancement of Alternariaalternata (fungus), which will avert the chances of allergenic and asthmatic diseases.

Can Classical Music Affect the Growth of Common Basil?

Many have observed that either talking to plants or playing them classical music can enhance their growth, but are there any affetcs on the natural predators of those plants? This experiment will try to answer the following question: can classical music deter pests? This experiment grew Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) stalks, in both musical and non-musical environments. Since gastropods are a common predator of the basil plant, cultured land snails (mesodon thyroidus) were administered to both environments. Provided with other food besides the basil, the experiment shows that the classical music had no effect on the snail consumption of the basil.

The Effects of Red, Blue, and White Light on Plant Growth

The growing of seedlings is instrumental in growing healthy and successful plants. Healthy seedlings make for a more successful transplatiing. This experiment uses different colors of the visible spectrum; red, blue, and white. It also uses Pole Beans of (Phaseolus vulgaris). The control for this particular experiemnt is ordinary white light. The independent variable is the red and blue lights. The growth being the dependent variable. The preliminary results show minimal difference between the growth of the plants plcaed under the red and blue lights. The white light shows a greater growth in comparison to the red and blue lights.

Effects of Injected Sucrose in Tomato Plants Root Growth

Glucose is noted as the energy molecules for all animals. It is the major source of ATP. Glucose is made by plants through the process of photosynthesis and transported in the form of sucrose. Sucrose can form polymers and add structure to plants. It is hypothesized that an increase in sucrose injected into plants will result in an increase in root growth. The experiment was separated into 3 groups. The plants injected with 150 mg/ml, plants injected with 300 mg/ml and plants were allowed to grow normally. Data was collected. A T test was applied. Preliminary data suggest that plants injected with 300 mg/ml sucrose had higher growth. This application may be useful in improving root growth in areas of heavy erosion.

The Effect of temperature on the Rate of Compost Decomposition and Subsequent Plant Growth

The purpose of this research was to determine if there was a specific point in time during the decomposition process of compost when optimal plant growth could be produced. The temperature of four compost piles was recorded over a period of 30 days versus that of the outside temperature, and then Tendergreen Improved and Kentucky Wonder beans were planted in each pre-peak, peak, and post-peak; Bean heights were recorded over a 40 day period. An unpaired t-test shows that the Kentucky Wonder beans (n=20) in the post-peak compost pile grew significantly better than the Tendergreen Improved beans (n=17) in the pre-peak compost pile. It was found that the optimal decomposition time compost that yields the most active plant growth is after the peak temperature has been achieved.

The Effect of Calcium on the Growth of Wisconsin Fast Plants

In this experiment, the effect of calcium on the growth of Wisconsin Fast Plants, commonly known as brassica rapa, was tested. This experiment involved two experimemtal groups and one control group. The experimental groups were given different levels of calcium. The control group received no calcium. The control and experimental groups were grown under the same conditions. The control and experimental groups were given 500 mL of water in each pot over a span of two days at a time. The plants were grown under lighted conditions and in a 75 degree atmosphere. All plants received the same amount of light. Preliminary data shows that the growth among the plants that received a higher level of calcium was greater than the groups that received little and no calcium. Statistical analyses will be applied using the F-Test and the T-Test to determine the validity of the experiment. According to preliminary results, a 95 percent confidence level will be met.

The Effects of Heat on Seed germination Times

The purpose of this research was to find the optimum heating time for several types of string bean seeds to determine if heating causes the seeds to germinate faster. Two types of string bean seeds (total n=60) were microwaved for 0, 10, 30, 50, 70 or 90 seconds, submerged in water for 12 hours and planted. Observations were made to determine which seeds germinated fastest. Those microwaved for ten seconds averaged a faster germination time than those not microwaved at all. It was found that microwaving a seed for ten seconds prior to planting increases the germination time.

Ability In Auxiliary Pigments in Filtering Ultraviolet Light in Acer rubrum

Ability In Auxiliary Pigments in Filtering Ultraviolet Light in Acer rubrum For many years, textbooks claimed that autumn colors were a side product of leaves when they were about to die. But in recent years, scientists have recognized that autumn colors probably play an important role in the life of many trees. Some Scientists say that autumn leaves tend to stop insects from feeding on the trees. Others say that leave colors that are produced in the fall may serve as a sunscreen that protects leaves before they die. Scientists do agree on one point : these colors have some purpose. Two different types of Acer rubrum were collected and tested in the ability of Auxiliary pigments such as anthocyanins in Acer rubrum in filtering out Ultraviolet light. This was done from a self constructed florometer. After the data was averaged, it showed that the red Acer rubrum had a higher number of MW/cm^2 of florescent light being lit up than its green counterpart. What this shows is that the data was insignificant and that since the leaf sunscreen theory didn’t seem to work , this basically states that the first theory which was the leaf signal theory might be a valid statement.

Effect of Micelles produced by Stearic Acid on Plant Growth

The purpose of this project was to produce micelles in water, give it to plants, and then compare its effect to a control with regular tap water. Research indicates that micelles will cause the tetrahedron formation of water molecules to break apart and reform into chain like structures. The newly reformed molecules would then increase the water’s bio-availability. This research examined the possibility of creating and applying micelles to growing plants. It was hypothesized that plants watered with micelles would show a greater growth than those watered with standard water. To produce micelles the fatty acid, stearic acid was used. It was first dissolved in ethanol and then this mixture of 50 ml was added to 3,150 ml of water. This new mixture was then administered to 6 experimental pots, each containing 4 seeds. The control group also had 6 pots with 4 seeds. These two groups were then compared for overall plant growth. Data was collected on plant height, number of leaves and plant weight. Statistical analysis was applied using a T-test. Preliminary data suggests that nutrient absorption, through water, is increased with the addition of micelles. This research could be important in the area of mineral water supply.

The Effects of Microcurrents on Healing Insect Damage on Plants

The purpose of this research was to determine if micro-currents affect the healing process in plants. Twenty-five corn and bean plants were injured by making holes in the leaves or partially or completely cutting off branches. The injured areas were then stimulated by micro-currents for specific amounts of time. The only plants that healed were the beans that had branches totally cut off. It was concluded that micro-currents can enhance healing in plants based on location and severity of the injury.

Effect of Plant Hormones on Leaf Cuttings of Rex Begonias

The term auxin is derived from the Greek word auxein which means to grow. Compounds are generally considered auxins if they can be characterized by their ability to induce cell elongation in stems and otherwise resemble indoleacetic acid (the first auxin isolated) in physiological activity. Auxins usually affect other processes in addition to cell elongation of stem cells but this characteristic is considered critical of all auxins and thus "helps" define the hormone (Arteca, 1996; Mauseth, 1991; Raven, 1992; Salisbury and Ross, 1992). Leaf cuttings are prepared by taking a single leaf from the plant. This leaf must generate not only new roots, but new shoots as well. It was hypothesized that auxins applied to plant leaves that are capable of growing roots will result in an increase in root length and faster roots growth. Leaves of Rex begonias were placed on the soil. They were divided into two groups: soil with auxin Hormex and soil without auxin. They were allowed to grow for two weeks. Root length was measured and time of growth was recorded. Data was analyzed using a T – Test. Preliminary results indicated that root growth increased with the addition of auxins. The purpose of this project was to test if Hormex helped the growth of roots of leaf cuttings of Rex begonias.

Hydroponics Plant Food: Blue-Green Algae Gloeocapsa vs. Pure Blend Pure Grow™ Hydroponics Plant Solution

How does living blue-green algae Gloeocapsa affect bean plants? Blue-green algae are prokaryotic unicellular organisms. These organisms have the ability to fix nitrogen, or combine, in the form of ammonium (NH4) or nitrate (NO3) ions. Nitrogen is an important element for plant growth. In my experiment I tested to see if the living blue-green algae affected the bean plants' growth. I constructed two hydroponics apparatuses that held eleven plants each. The water solution in one of the apparatuses contained water and blue-green algae Gloeocapsa, and the other apparatus contained water and a hydroponics plant solution called Pure Blend Pro Grow. I tested the blue-green algae solutions and a commercial solution to see if the blue-green algae enhanced plant growth just as well as or better than a commercial solution. The plants grew in the two different solutions, and I measured the height of the plants for eighteen days. I recorded the weights and final heights of the plants on the last day. I concluded that blue-green algae enhanced plant growth just as well as the Pure Blend Pro Grow solution.

Effects of Molybdenum on the Growth of Brassica rapa

Molybdenum is one of the many required minerals needed for an organism to live. Molybdenum is used in plants primarily for Nitrogen Fixation which makes nitrogen available to the plants in the proper form. Nitrogen is a primary resource needed for all living organisms. In plants, nitrogen helps in plant, leaf, and chloroplast production. The aim of this experiment was to test the effect of different levels of Molybdenum on plants. To do this, 120 Brassica rapa plants were divided. Each pot was planted 4 seeds and there was 5 pots in each group. Molybdenum was applied in the various groups in levels of 0ppm, 1ppm, 2ppm, 4ppm, 6ppm, and 8ppm. The plant height (growth), leaf number, leaf mass, and root mass of the plants were measured. Data was collected, statistics were graphed and ANOVA test was used to determine the significance. Preliminary data suggests that there are minute differences and that there might not be a significant difference. The results will reveal the ideal amount of Molybdenum needed for a basic plant. Future experiments can further experiment the effects of Molybdenum into a specific region of the plant.

The Effects Of Taurine in High Calcium Soil.

Taurine, 2-aminoethanesulfonic acid, is theorized to decrease calcium levels in neurons of a human body. Also, research indicates that high levels of calcium (more than 500ppm) in soil caused deficiencies to the seedlings in it (Landis, 1998). This research experimented the ability of taurine (concentration of 1g/250 ml) to decrease the calcium levels in soil with high calcium concentration. Soils with high calcium levels were watered with a taurine solution. Levels of calcium were checked by weekly and data was constructed. The effect of high calcium (more than 500ppm) on the ground of plants was also examined. Data was collected and analyzed. A T-test was applied to the data. Preliminary data indicates that taurine decreases high levels of Ca in soil. The hypothesis was accepted at a 95% confidence level. This application may be helped when the calcium in soil needs to be lowered in areas of land where there might be high calcium levels.

Salinity: Effect on Lycoperscion esculentum

Terrain varies from climate to climate, drastically affecting crop growth. Irrigation is used to make arid lands fertile, which are then suitable for growing crash crops. Because native shrubs and deep rooted vegetations are removed to clear an area, excess salt is evaporated into the soil, and later incorporated into the groundwater. These high salinity levels negatively affect the roots of vegetation, affecting the production of the crops. An experimental design was created to investigate this problem, which would determine how irrigation, over time can cause damage to crop roots. A hypothesis was formulated on this basis stating, as high salt concentrations administrated to Lycopersicon esculentum, the plant’s roots will decrease in length. In this study, the effects of three different concentration levels of NaCl would be used to observe the effect on the germination of seeds of Lycopersicon esculentum. The seeds would be exposed to the following: distilled H2O, 2 ppm of NaCl, and 6 ppm of NaCl. Statistical analysis (t-test) would be used to compare and contrast the experimental groups, as well as the control, based on data collected from evaluating the roots of the germinated seeds. Preliminary data indicated that as salt concentrations increased, the roots would show stunned growth. If excessive irrigation is commonly practiced, crop sizes production would dramatically decrease.

BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE

The relationship between diameter and slope of ant lion pits.

My project was to determine the relationship between ant lion pits diameters and their slope. Ant lions are tiny bugs that dig cone shaped holes in the sand and wait for ants to slip into them and they then flick sand making them slide further and suck the juice out of the ants leaving their carcass. In a tank in the lab and in the Pine Barrens the depth and diameter were measured and recorded. The opposite of sine was then used to calculate the slope of each pit recorded. The correlation of the diameter and slope was positive every time there were enough pits to be able to tell; the other times there was no change.

The Mozart Effect: Fact or Fallacy?

The purpose of our project is to test the Mozart Effect on students in our high school. Students that were tested in their science and math classes. Some of these students were in AP classes, while other were in average or below average classes. The data that we collected was sorted out to see if the Mozart Effect would really effect teenage high school students.

The Impact of Music on Test Scores

The subject of our experiment was the effect of music on IQ test scores. If music has a positive effect on IQ test scores and music is played during test taking, it should improve test scores. In a previous study, Mozart was played prior to the administration of the IQ test and IQ test scores rose 9 points. This occurrence was named the “Mozart effect,” but repeated experiments did not support this result. High school students anonymously took a musical aptitude test, a musical preference survey, and two IQ tests: one while listening to either rock or classical music and one without music. Tests were graded and statistical analysis was performed. The average scores of all tests subjects decreased by 1.70 points with music. However, subjects without musical aptitude improved by an average of 0.091427 points when the test was taken with music. The test scores of subjects with musical aptitude decreased by an average of 2.08385 points when they took the test with music. This data does not support the Mozart effect. However, the data suggests that people with musical aptitude have a greater negative effect on IQ test scores with music than people without musical aptitude.

Eye Shadow and Pupil Dilation

The topic being studied involves eye shadow, personality perception, and pupil dilation. It is a continuation of last year’s project, which concluded that make-up affects the way personality traits of a person are perceived by others. This year’s project will focus specifically on the effects of eye shadow. The hypothesis is that there will be a significant difference in perception between cooler colors, such as blue, green, or purple, compared to brilliant colors, such as red, orange, or yellow. The outcome of the experiment will be that color does affect personality perception. If the results of the project agree with what colors are associated with, cooler colors of eye shadow may make others think the person wearing the eye shadow is sad or tranquil, and possibly even more masculine. Warmer colors will make people think the person wearing the eye shadow is more upbeat and has many positive traits. The variable being studied is eye shadow, both cool and warm colored eye shadow. Three pictures of the same person will be used. One will have cool colored eye shadow, warm colored eye shadow, and the last will have normal eye shadow. They will be shown to volunteers and their pupil dilation will be measured to test physical reaction to the pictures. They will also be put on surveys asking participants to rate the picture on various characteristics, which will be used to emphasize the pupil dilation data.

The Psychological Effects of Color on Manual Dexterity in Teens

The purpose of this research was to determine whether color has as significant effect on the ability of teenagers to perform a mechanical task. Subjects, specifically 15 and 16 year olds of both genders, were timed as they assembled one puzzle on a red background and a different puzzle of equal difficulty on a blue background. The t-test results showed that there was not a significant difference in the times for completion of puzzles on the red versus blue backgrounds. However, males were more efficient than females with assembling the puzzles by approximately 25.29 seconds. It was found that the null hypothesis was accepted because there was not a significant difference between the red and blue backgrounds.

Can goldfish learn to discriminate between shapes using operant conditioning?

Preliminary research indicates that Carassius auratus, or the common goldfish, has been trained to recognize the difference between colors through operant conditioning. This research examined the ability of Carassius auratus to recognize various shapes using operant conditioning. It was hypothesized that Carassius auratus would discriminate the distinction between a circle, square, and a triangle. The goldfish were exposed to the different shapes using food as a stimulant. A T. test was used for statistical analysis. There is still a lot of interest in the scientific community to further explore conditioning, which will have long lasting implications in understanding and manipulating the behaviors of diverse animals.

Effects of magnetic reversals on the movement of anguilla rostrata.

There is evidence that the earth's magnetic field is weakening and may soon reverse. There are certain animals, such as Anguilla rostrata, that are believed to use the earth's magnetic field as a navigational device. If the earth's magnetic field were to reverse, what impact would it have on the navigational abilities of migratory animals, such as Anguilla rostrata? It was hypothesized that if the magnetic poles in a tank are reversed, then the Anguilla rostrata will swim in the opposite direction of which they were trained to retrieve their food. Eels were conditioned to go North to retrieve their food. After approximately two months of conditioning, the magnetic field in the tank was reversed using magnetic wire wound around a tank and a six volt power source. The findings were not significant enough to show whether the eels were directly influenced by the reversal of the magnetic field.

The Effect of Verbal Stimuli on Human Reaction Time

The hypothesis that different verbal commmands affect reaction time dependent on the verbal commands "stop" and "go" was tested. The classic ruler drop method was used to measure the reactions to both commands. Each subject was gievn one try to catch the ruler when given one of the command. The commands were given randomly to each subject. A t-test was used to analyze the significance of the data presenting which of the two commands delayed or had a greater effect on reaction time. Results should have suggested that one of the commands has a greater impact on human stimuli therefore having faster reaction times. However, due to t-test results, the null hypothsis could not be rejected. Research could be useful for future advancing technology.

An Analysis of Lies

Simona Saracco, Anny Okrainets An Analysis of Lies Behavioral Science This study is being done in order to investigate the physical factors influenced by the generation of false statements by the test subject. The hypothesis is that there is a direct correlation between heart rate, respiration rate, and perspiration rate and whether or not the test subject is telling the truth. The investigation is conducted according to the guidelines provided. The test subject is placed in an isolated environment and given a script. The script contains statements and two possible words to fill the blanks in the statement. One of the answers is an inarguable false response. The subject has respiration sensors, perspiration sensors, and heart rate monitors attached to their persona and plugged into a lap top. While the subject reads off the script, sometimes choosing false and sometimes right statements, the laptop records the measurements on the same graph. After the subject is done, the test controllers will receive the graphs but not the answer key that the test subject fulfilled. The test controllers will then have to determine what the answers were that were given by the test subjects. The investigation will explain the relationship between alterations in physical responses and the changes in the truth quotient of the responses of the test subject. The hypothesis is that there is a strong positive relationship; in other words, as the subject increases the falsehood of their responses, their perspiration rate, heart rate, and respiration rate will increase accordingly.

Is the Media Biased?

This project sought to determine if major U.S. newspapers provide biased coverage when covering controversial issues. A lexicon of “biased buzzwords” for each controversial topic selected was developed by analyzing the literature of advocacy groups on both sides of the issue. Articles from ten newspapers were examined and all the “buzzwords” used in those articles were tallied. A statistical analysis including p-tests was completed to determine whether the newspapers favored one type of buzzwords over another more than would be expected because of random chance. The results of the tests showed that only one newspaper, the Washington Times, did not exhibit bias when providing news coverage. The other newspapers were found to exhibit bias. Further statistical analysis indicated that bias was present in news reports regardless of geographic region.

The Psychological Effects of Color on Students Ability to Learn and Process Information

Abstract Colors effect moods in different ways. Your mood effects how well your ability to learn is. Do you learn as well angry as you do if you are happy or content? We propose that your mind will work faster and more efficiently if you are in a better mood. If our hypotheses’ is in fact correct, than the color of the classroom will indeed have an impact on your learning ability. A series of tests were given to students to perform that attend our local high school. They are simple math tests in the color yellow or in the color pink. The overall test scores will determine whether students test better in a specific color or if there is no difference. At the present time tests show that boys test better in yellow and girls test better in pink.

Audio Chip with Educational Applications

Education is usually approached by children just reading a book. This study involved researching and learning about the different types of learners, how the brain has a role in memory, and how to construct an audio chip. In our study we created an audio chip book and a regular book with the same storyline, which was then used to test for the most common learning style in children. After we completed this, we tested two different groups of children from which we drew our conclusions in conjunction with findings of other scientists. Through the analysis of a quiz given after the reading assignment we discovered that children who read the information are able to remember the information better.

Assessment of Stress Levels in Male Shelter Dogs

The objective of the study was to determine any changes in the stress levels among male shelter dogs during closed and open hours of an animal shelter. This observational study was done on two cohorts of dogs, neutered and non-neutered. The second part of the study determines any differences in stress levels between neutered and non-neutered dogs during the closed and open hours of the shelter. All of the dogs in each group was observed using a video camera throughout the day to compare behaviors during the closed hours of the shelter with its open hours. Results of responses in dogs were compared to an index of common stress-induced behaviors compiled by B. Beerda et. al.(1998) to determine what time of day stimulates more stressful responses in the dogs. The stress levels of the dogs in the experiments were measured using an observational behavioral stress scoring system reported by Kessler and Turner(1997).

Application of the Facial Action Coding System

The first step to performing this experiment is to get the actual FACS manual. With this manual, one can study the system and learn the vast assortment of facial movements that convey a certain emotion. The next step is to create a set of simple questions for subjects to answer. Then, one partner prompts the interviewee before questioning and tells him or her that he or she should lie while answering some questions and tell the truth for others. This will challenge the questioner to not automatically assume that this person is simply a liar when an answer is seen to be false. The questioner should then begin his or her series of questions and the facial movements should be recorded so that the video may be reviewed later and shown as proof that the system works. Once this is done, one can look at the emotions gathered, synchronize them with what question they relate to, and then decide whether or not the person was lying. The statistical data that will be gathered is the amount of times a certain facial expression is made after the video recorded during the questioning is analyzed on a computer. This data can be put into a table and even displayed on some kind of bar graph. Then, the height of certain bars and the amount of lies can be compared and a correlation can be made between the two and shown to anyone who would observe these tables and graphs.

Effects of a Beverage Stimulant and Dietary Supplement Interaction on Cognitive Processes

The objective of the study is to test the effects of Ginkgo biloba extract and the combination of ginkgo and caffeine on learning and memory function. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) were used in the experiments since zebrafish are vertebrates and their genome is very similar to those of humans. The fish were divided into a control group and five experimental groups that were exposed to varying levels of ginkgo and/or caffeine. Their learning behavior and memory function were examined by teaching the fish a simple spatial alternation task with food as the reward. During the experiments food was delivered on alternating sides of the fish tank at constant time intervals. The animal's achievement of the spatial learning and memory tasks was represented by its presence at the correct side of the tank at food delivery. Data collected from the experiments was recorded, statistically analyzed and graphed. The data indicated that moderate amounts of ginkgo were beneficial to learning but had no effect on memory. Doubled dosages of ginkgo had negative effects on the cognitive functions. The interaction of ginkgo and caffeine at moderate dosages had no effect on cognitive functions, while doubled dosages of the interaction resulted in negative effects. Experiment results showed that negative effects on cognitive functions can result from interactions and that excessive amounts do not necessarily enhance effects. Therefore, the combination and dosage of substances ingested must be taken into consideration prior to consumption.

CHEMISTRY

The Use of Polymers in Plant Disease Prevention.

The purpose of the experiment was to find the best ratio of PVA to PVAc in a mixture for an even release of colorant over three days. PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) and PVAc (polyvinyl acetate) are adhesives used to bind fungicides, growth regulators, and other various additives to seed coatings during processing. The first step was to mix the PVA, which was in powdered form. The PVA was mixed in distilled water to a 20% dilution. After mixing the PVA, the next step was to make the ratio mixtures of PVA and PVAc. Five different mixtures were made. The first was a 1:3 PVA:PVAc, the second a 1.5:2.5 PVA:PVAc, the third a 2:2 PVA:PVAc, the fourth 2.5:1.5 PVA:PVAc, and the last 3:1 PVA:PVAc. One hundred milliliters of each mixture was made. One teaspoon of Yellow 5 Lake was dissolved in each mixture and the mixtures were allowed to dry overnight. On a milligram scale, 0.10 grams of the dried PVA/PVAc mixture was weighed out. The samples were then ground up and placed in a test tube, along with ten milliliters of distilled water, and then allowed to sit undisturbed for an hour. After the first hour, measurements of the colorant release were taken using a ThermoSpectronic spectrophotometer. A blank test tube was placed in the spectrophotometer to zero it, and then the first test tube containing a PVA/PVAc mixture was measured. Each time the spectrophotometer was zeroed again before taking a reading. This process was repeated every hour for four hours. Results were recorded as they were taken. A reading of the test tubes was also taken once a day for the following two days. After the final test, the test tubes were emptied and cleaned. The results were recorded and compared. PVAc is a better adhesive to use in seed pelleting than PVA. PVAc holds the colorant in longer and gives a more even release rate than does PVA. The ratio of 1:3 PVA:PVAc gave the best readings for a slow, even release of colorant.

Color Changes in Indicator Solutions

The subject of my experiment is bromocresol green and the effects that dilutions have on the color of the indicator solution. In most cases, the color of indicator solutions upon dilution decreases in the intensity, but the wavelength of the absorbing light remains constant. For my experiment, I analyzed the color changes in an aqueous solution of bromocresol green to determine why some indicator solutions change in color as well. In order to fully analyze the color change, protonated, HIn, and charged, In -, dilutions of bromocresol green were prepared and the pH and electronic spectra of each aliquot was measured. By analyzing the relationship between the pH and the concentration of both species to determine the pK¬¬¬IN value for each dilution, it was concluded that in order to experience a color change the concentration of an indicator must be in the same range as the pKIN value. It was also concluded from further analysis that the protonated and non-protonated species must have different colors, and the presence of an acid or basic substance in the solvent medium should be in the same concentration range as the pKIN¬ value.

The Effect of Reduced Carbon Dioxide Concentration on DMFC Efficiency

The purpose of this experiment was to see the effect reduced carbon dioxide would have on the efficiency of a Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC). If the excess carbon dioxide was removed from the environment of a fuel cell then the cell reaction would be driven to the right as predicted by Le Chatlier's principle, which would in turn result in an increased voltage output. A voltage meter was used to determine the DMFC voltage output. Then, for the experimental set, a soda lime scrubber was used to remove waste carbon dioxide and the DMFC voltage output was measured when it was in the presence of the soda lime scrubber. A solid conclusion has not yet been reached. Further testing is being conducted.

Encapsulating pH-indicating dyes in sol-gel matrices

Sol-gel glass matrices derived from tetramethyl orthosilicate and encapsulated with a pH-indicating dye, either methyl orange, methyl red, or cresol red, were synthesized. The matrices were compared with solution phase chemistry for indicating range and reversibility. The sol-gel materials served as effective indicators within a well-defined pH range, though the reversibility was often slower than the initial change. The quality of sol-gel monoliths depended on the container used during synthesis, with plastic well-plates producing materials of consistent and convenient size and shape.

Corrosion of Steel

Corrosion is a major problem in engineering; bridges, cars, and buildings are all affected by this process. When salt is used in the wintertime to combat ice on roadways, there appears to be an increased amount of corrosion on cars and bridges. Bridges built near the ocean incur salt spray. Does this salt build-up cause corrosion and weaken the structure? How is the rate of corrosion of steel affected by the salinity of the water it is immersed in? To investigate this, samples of steel wool were submerged in salt (NaCl) solutions of varying concentrations and observed. In total, 90 samples were observed while experimenting to find practical ways to describe the process qualitatively and quantitatively. The result was that the amount of corrosion is proportional to the concentration of salt in the solution. Using linear regression of the last five samples, it was determined that increasing the salinity of water increases the corrosion of steel wool. (The R2 value for this equation is 0.9934.) However, it was not proven that the chloride ions caused this effect.

The Efficiency of Alternative Fuels

Gasoline prices have never been higher since the recent events in the Middle East and natural disasters in the southern states. The goal of this project is find the efficacy and power of different concentrations of several of the more popular alternative fuel sources including ethyl alcohol, gasoline, and vegetable oil.

Could Copper Binding Be The Key To Alzheimers Disease?

In all living systems, metals must bond in specific ways to proteins. Copper is one metal that plays a key role in brain development and the central nervous system. Although copper is required for good health and development, excessive amounts of this element in the body are toxic. Recent research suggests that high levels of copper may play a key role in the development of diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Mad Cow, and tumor growth. However, the exact role of copper is uncertain. This study examines the characteristics of copper binding to protein. In order to study copper binding, an inexpensive protein called BSA, was used to react with copper compounds. A precipitate was formed when either copper sulfate or copper chloride was added to a solution of BSA. This suggests that the copper (II) cation, not the anion, causes the precipitation. While zinc produced a similar effect to copper, other metals such as calcium, aluminum, and nickel did not form a precipitate when added to BSA. These results support the hypothesis that copper may play a major role in the formation of protein plaques and prion deposits found in victims of Alzheimer’s and Mad Cow Disease. Because resolubilizing these deposits could lead to a treatment or cure for these diseases, the removal of copper from the precipitated protein was tested. EDTA, MoS42-, and WS42- have all been used successfully to scavenge metals in the treatment of metal toxicity. When added to the precipitated protein, they all completely resolubilized the precipitate. The focus of this study was to understand the qualitative and quantitative conditions necessary to precipitate the protein and to resolubilize it.

The Effects of Natural Fixatives on the Durability of Natural Dyes

The purpose of this research was to test how different fixatives kept dyes permanent. Five natural dyes and two fixatives (salt/water or vinegar/water) were tested on 36 cotton swatches. The swatches were washed until the dye color changed or faded. The results showed no difference between those soaked in a fixative and those soaked only in the dyes. It was found that salt/water and vinegar/water fixatives did not increase the durability of natural dyes.

Analysis of Edible Oils Using Infrared Spectroscopy

Various vegetable oils (such as canola oil, olive oil, and hazelnut oil) were studied by infrared (IR) spectroscopy. Because of the complexity and similarities of these infrared spectra it is difficult to differentiate among oil types. The present study demonstrates an effective statistical analysis that allows for differentiation. Five spectra of each oil, including pure and commercial varieties, were taken. Principal component analysis was then performed using seven variables within each spectrum to generate scatter plots. These plots can be used to differentiate between different varieties of oil. In addition to distinguishing between different oils, it is also possible to note differences between the commercial and pure oil samples.

The Effect of Acid on a Dolomite-Epoxy Deicing Surface.

A new road coating has been made to hold more deicing materials. It is hypothesized that acid rain deteriorates this coating. The coating is made up of an epoxy-dolomite solution. This has been made to increase the surface area to hold more deicing materials such as calcium chloride. An experiment was conducted where the coating was placed on un-surfaced porcelain tile. Water was poured on and left to freeze. It was quantified how much froze on the tiles. The procedure was done with different amounts of acid acting upon the surface coating. Preliminary results suggest that acid rain causes deterioration of the tiles and does not allow for the full holding capacity of the deicing materials.

Which is the Best Fire Extinguisher?

Fire is a chemical reaction that can start out as the burning of a small twig but end up destroying many acres of land. Most small household fires spread quickly due to the fact that many houses aren’t equipped with fire extinguishers and/or the person doesn’t know how to use them. In addition, it has been known that the fumes given off by fire extinguishers can be harmful to your health. It was hypothesized that the homemade fire extinguisher would be simpler to use/handle, eco-friendly and as effective as the standard fire extinguisher. Several small contained fires were started and allowed to burn for five minutes. A homemade fire extinguisher made up basically of vinegar and baking soda was used to extinguisher the fire. The time it took to extinguisher the fire was recorded. This time was compared to the time a standard fire extinguisher used to extinguish the fire. Data was collected and a T test was applied. Data suggested that a homemade extinguisher can be as effective as the standard fire extinguisher on small fires. In the future an effort can be made to have a homemade fire extinguisher in each household to prevent small household fires from destroying the homes of many.

Color Retention in Hair treated with Liquid and Creme Permanent Dyes

The purpose of this research was to analyze the color retention of liquid vs. crème permanent hair dyes on human gray hair samples through testing and comparison. Three samples of crème hair dyes and three samples of liquid hair dyes were washed with a harsh shampoo and exposed to six hours of sunlight (or a sun lamp depending on the weather) for 25 consecutive days. They were then compared to a standard, an untreated gray hair sample, and to its corresponding component (i.e. permanent liquid natural blonde and permanent crème natural blonde). T-test results showed that there was a significant difference between the color retention of liquid and crème hair dyes. It was found that crème dyes are more efficient in color retention than the liquid dyes.

Thermodynamics of toluene solubility in aqueous media

The thermodynamics behind toluene transfer between solutions of different cosolvents was studied. Several solutions of toluene in various cosolvents were made and analyzed with ultra-violet spectroscopy to determine the concentration of toluene. From this data, the free energy changes of solution formation were calculated. The main result found was that there was a positive free energy change of roughly 1 to 10 kJ/mol in solutions with polar solvents and a negative free energy change of roughly 0 to -0.5 kJ/mol in solutions with non-polar solvents.

Zone Refining Purification of Organic Solids

The principle behind zone refining is that a substance will become purified through repetitive melting and re-crystallization. This purification occurs when the impurity is more soluble in the melt than in the crystal. Generally, impurities are excluded from the crystal when it reforms. We have constructed a zone refining apparatus, consisting of an annular heater and a motorized pulley system capable of drawing a sample tube through the heated zone. We have chosen naphthalene as the host crystal due to its low melting temperature and ability to form high quality crystals. We have used Coumarin 152 as a model impurity to demonstrate the feasibility of directly imaging impurity concentration by fluorescence mapping. Subsequent to each zone refinement run, the sample tubes were examined under UV light. An ordinary digital camera was used to monitor the spatial concentration of the impurity dye by recording its fluorescence. After two zone passes, we were able to visualize a roughly 100x reduction in dye concentration in the top quarter of the sample tube.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Controlling Autonomous Robotic Vehicle Speed by Reading Speed Limit Signs

The purpose of my program is to allow autonomous vehicles to read speed limit signs, therefore allowing them to adjust their speed and ultimately become safer for urban use. My program uses an image taken from a camera which is passed as a bitmap into my program. The program then isolates the speed limit sign from the rest of the picture. Next, it feeds the picture of the sign into an artificial neural network, which attempts to determine the number written on the sign. The neural network is able to read the numbers by being trained beforehand to recognize the pattern of the inputs. This information would then be used to control the motor speed of a robotic vehicle, making the vehicle more predictable and safe for other drivers and pedestrians.

Designing with Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs)

Although the parallel port is a popular interface, it sometimes is insufficient for a complex project because of its limited I/O lines. Using the ISA bus, you can get 32 I/O lines where the parallel port can usually only have 8 output and even fewer input lines. This project will involve handling communication with the computer's ISA bus, in order to get these I/O lines working properly.

A neural circuit model for integrating a multiple visual cues: application to real-time object recognition and tracking

Artificial intelligence theory has, in modern times, moved away from the traditional theories of using brute force methods and towards modeling computers after the way the human brain actually works. Before any major intelligence functions properly, the human neocortex must be understood. Scientests have discovered that the visual neocortex functions in a feedback and feed forward method with an upside down tree structure. This project describes an algorithm that is being developed to simulate this theory using an object recognition algorithm. The algorithm recognizes simple still images and ranks them based on how effective the algorithm was at identifying it. Eventually, the code will be able to track an image through a live video feed.

Learning on the Go: The First PDA Intelligent Tutor

The creation and evaluation of the first Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) Intelligent Tutor is part of the first long-term study of high school student PDA use. The study involved three-parts, 146 students over four years. As previously reported, part one found that PDA use improves grades by 13% (Bick, 2004). Part two, determined that a participatory simulation increases student science achievement by 24.7% (Bick, 2005). For part three, the first PDA intelligent tutor (reported in the scientific literature) was written. The tutor teaches algebra and incorporates the novel real-world location variable into its artificial intelligence cognitive schema. Because a PDA is highly portable, students were able to learn anywhere. The tutor generates problems based on the student’s real-world location. For example, when at Starbucks, the PDA tutor generates problems based on Starbucks drinks. Trials with an Algebra 1 class of twenty students resulted in a statistically significant test performance increase, increased student motivation and high tutor efficacy. Students like the emphasis on problems that are relevant to their lives. Teachers, who assign the tutor for homework and in the classroom, find that students quickly adapt to the PDA platform. Results illustrate potential of large-scale PDA implementations and support PDA purchases with No Child Left Behind Act funding. Data suggests a reallocation of technology budgets to PDAs will statistically significantly improve student achievement. Beyond the classroom, this novel location-aware training technology has significant implications for industrial, medical and military environments where training and practice is based on real world location.

EARTH and SPACE SCIENCE

The Effects of Meteorite Characteristics on the Formation of Craters

The purpose of this research was to determine how the characteristics of sphere objects and drop heights effect the formation of impact craters. Ten spheres were dropped from heights of 0.5, 1.5, and 3 meters, and the diameter and depth of the resulting craters was recorded. The volume of the craters was found from the data collected. The results showed that the crater volumes increased as the mass, volume, density, and drop height increased. It was found that the mass, volume, density, and drop height of a sphere affected the formation of impact craters.

The role of calcium carbonate,oxygen isotopes,and paleoclimate through belomnite fossils.

Abstract The Cretaceous period is considered to be warmer than today. Also crocodile fossils were found during this time because crocodiles usually exist in warmer climate.Stable isotopes are commonly used in studies to determine paleoclimate. Cretaceous and modern fossils are collected and the Isotope ratios of both the modern and the cretaceous fossils are measured and compared with the use of mass spectrometer. Preliminary research shows that paleoclimates from stable isotopes are warmer.

Modeling bolide induced Atlantic Megatsunamis.

The goal of this project was to model the large scale movements of huge water waves caused by megatsunamis created by bolide impact. A model was constructed by placing a mounted raised relief map in the tank of warm water and the simulated bolide was launched to explore the displaced water creating a wave simulating a megatsunami at different angles. Although a solid conclusion had not been reached, the model suggests large areas of North America would be affected by megatsunamis. Further research will be conducted in order to determine the exact areas covered by huge water waves of megatsunamis.

Chemical Composition of New Jersey Cretaceous Amber

Cretaceous amber specimens were collected in Sayreville, New Jersey. The specimens were subject to analytical techniques. Through these techniques I was able to determine the chemical composition of the amber. The process is currently being applied, therefore results cannot be concluded.

ENGINEERING

Circuits of Safety

In our project, we created a bi-color LED display board that would notify bus drivers whether students on a bus are seated and if they have buckled their seat belts. Under each seat is a pressure sensor resistor. When pressure is applied, the resistance created by the pressure sensor decreases, allowing a feed to be sent to the microprocessor. This lights the corresponding LED red on the driver’s display board. The display board is set up like a map of the bus with a light for each seat. A seat belt has been wired so that when a student buckles it, a circuit is completed. We stitched a wire into the edge of the fabric and connected it to the metal heads of the belt. When the belt is connected, the microprocessor takes that input and changes the color of the corresponding LED on the board to green.

Exploring CNC

The project is to design, build, and use a three-axis CNC machine. This will help one to demonstrate knowledge and understanding in methods of constructing, programming and calibrating a CNC machine capable of movement in three dimensions. The Rational behind this is for a student being interested in engineering this science fair project will give me a base on understanding the factors that affect Quality control in a machines construction. In addition, with aspirations of becoming an engineer, this project encompasses many aspects, it will teach proficiency in methods of computers, electrons, stepper motors, and production efficiency. Construction will be done on three levels. The first level is the mechanical level. I will first construct and modify a table for use as a platform. I will set up perfectly perpendicular my x and y-axis’s. I will build and properly position my z-axis. Finally, I will then hook up my stepper motors. The second level is the electronic level. I will pre-build the circuit schematics. I will assemble circuits to breadboard. I will connect boards to the computer. Finally, I will run the power up procedure. The final level of construction will be putting the mechanical and electrical aspects together and calibrating them to work as a unit. I will follow the following testing procedure. First, I will create an idea for program. Second I will Design a program on computer. Third, I will standardize program by putting program into g- code form. Finally, I will set up the machine and run the program. We will analyze are data by measuring the deviation value in inches from software intended design. When analysis the data we will take in to consideration linear accuracy, radial accuracy, the accuracy of the machine when program is Scaled, and final the speed to completion. This CNC Machine will be able to define the space it is working in; the machine is intended to be statically accurate with in 25% of desired computer program.

Servo Controlled Marionette To Imitate Human Motions

I have designed, constructed, and programmed two servo-controlled marionettes to study and reproduce certain basic motions of the human body. Various sources such as Eadweard Muybridge’s historic stop-motion photographs of the human figure in motion, and video recordings of myself walking, were analyzed to provide data for the computer animation script files that control the servos. The first marionette operates with a total of six servos, providing basic control of both arms and legs. The second marionette uses eight servos to improve control of the lower legs, and to add control of head movements both up and down, and side to side. These improvements allow for a more realistic walking motion, as well as better expression of gesture and mood. Scripts were written for both marionettes demonstrating different types of motions including walking, running, and dancing. Later scripts were synchronized with music files to show how figural movements and music can be choreographed together. Servo-controlled marionettes have practical uses for both entertainment and educational purposes. They also are a relatively economical way to begin studying computer control of more complex robots such as servo-controlled artificial limbs.

Laser Transmission

This study involved the testing of Morse code transmission, audio transmission, and video transmission. Transmission of this type of data is made possible via a laser. Using a helium neon laser, a computer is able to transmit the data to another computer; the latter will be receiving the data via a receiver built from a photo resistor connected to a phono-plug. Tests were then done comparing the distance traveled by the laser to the intensity of the sound received, measured in decibels, except for the tests done on the Morse code transmitter which compared distance to accuracy. Results from these tests show that increased distance adversely affects the accuracy or intensity of the sound received by the computer.

Titan Tilt System

The purpose of this research was to design a simple and more controllable tilt-in-space wheelchair. The platform was designed with a central ball joint and two scissor jacks with universal joints fixed to the top. A model was built and about 16 degrees of tilt was achieved in the four main directions. The jolt of the previous has been corrected using the jacks and a drill to control the tilt instead of the muscle of the operator.Thus, it was found that this model in indeed simpler and more controllable than earlier designs.

NeuropiloT

Imagine driving down the street, hands off the steering wheel, feet off the pedals, yet the car still responds to your every command. You feel as in control as ever, yet you don’t physically need to do anything. And why should you. Your brain is essentially a complex biochemical computer, and computers communicate without rudimentary physical controls. I am bridging the gap between human and machine. I have developed a robotic platform, capable of transporting you, that can be controlled by mere thought. Using an electroencephalograph with non invasive surface electrodes, I monitor the brain's activity, and the waveforms your brain is generating. With an algorithm that searches for specific mu waves, I can get several on/off control switches from the brain. These switches can be used to control just about anything. I chose to control a platform, useable by anyone with brain activity, including people paralyzed from the neck down. Everyone can finally enjoy the mobility we have had throughout our lives. Keyboards, joysticks, mice, and steering wheels are all things of the past. Brain control is the future.

The Study of the Practical Applications of Hovercrafts

“The Study of the Practical Applications of Hovercrafts” is a project devoted to the uses and applications of hovercrafts in everyday life. The primary research goal is to find the optimum skirt hole size (and, therefore, internal pressure) of a hovercraft. Different weights were placed on a hovercraft, and pressures were recorded for each skirt hole size and amount of weight. These pressures were then analyzed, graphed, and empirically evaluated. The optimum hole size will soon be determined. Trends in the correlation between pressure and hole size were also found, and calculations were made as to how best scale-up our findings to larger hovercraft. Applications for practical uses of hovercrafts were also discovered, as were ways to apply the findings to said hovercraft applications. It was determined that varying hole-size could accommodate a variety of applications, such as high mobility or high weight-bearing capacity. We would like to thank everyone involved in this even

Experiments with Magnetic Liquids

I have constructed a simple therapeutic device that could be used for either massage or rehabilitation with magnetorheological fluids and latex balloons. Magnetorheological fluids are a special class of ferrofluids that solidify upon the influence of a magnetic field. After the fluid was created with cheap ingredients, it was put into the balloon. When no magnetic field was near, the balloon was squeezed. However, when several neodymium magnets were placed near, the rheological properties of the fluid completely changed, and squeezing became somewhat more difficult. Additionally, the magnets were arranged at different positions, and that altered the amount of difficulty it would take to squeeze the balloon. This unique property would be useful for people who want to relax their hands or people who have suffered hand injuries. As a result, a special type of exercise program was developed for people who want to use this prototype.

Germinator: Garbage Can of the Future

Many waste receptacles are commonly found in fast food establishments, schools and other public areas. many of these feature flip-open doors which must be pushed in order to open. This can lead to the spread of disease-causing bacteria and viruses. The Germinator is a possible solution to this problem since it features a motion-sensor activated opening system. When compared to regular waste receptacles, the Germinator is expected to test for lower numbers of baceria since it does not have to be touched to open. A survey about waste containers helps to support our hypothesis.

Balancing Robot

The purpose of my robot is to balance itself on two wheels along an axis of free rotation. The robot balances by using two accelerometers, a gyroscope, a Kalman filter and a PID loop. The Kalman filter, PID loop and other motion control routines are executed on an Atmel microcontroller. Also, sensor bandwidth and error parameters had to be anticipated to make the robot balance with minimal oscillations. The robot maintains a high center of mass and continuously satisfies a second order differential equation that models an inverted pendulum.

Wind-powered Generator Blade Design: Pitch vs. Power

This project is being completed mainly due to the need for alternative energy sources in today’s energy-consuming society. The project being studied entails testing a single blade at different pitch angles, at increments of 20, to determine what the optimum blade pitch is for the maximum power output. The tests were conducted using an industrial-sized fan at three different speeds with RPM’s ranging from 5000 to 8000 at the three different settings. The results found were all very similar at the different settings. The average optimum angle between the three was found to be 30°.

Pre-Hot Zone Temperature Detector

The objective of this project was to build a device that will enable a firefighter to determine the temperature of a hot zone before actually entering it. Because the temperature of a hot zone can peak up to 1000°F (538°C), a thermocouple was used to detect the temperature. With its wide range, the device was able to measure the appropriate temperature without damaging the actual device. Furthermore, considering the type of environment this device will be used in, an audio signal was used to detect the temperature—as the temperature increased, the device will beep more rapidly.

Compression and Tensile Strengths in Different Ratios of Portland Cement

Name: Abigail Bricker Project Title: Compression and Tensile Strengths in Different Ratios of Portland Cement Category: Engineering Abstract This project was sparked by an interest in engineering and architecture as a potential college major, causing the concentration on concrete as a versatile building material. By examining the relationship between the ratio of sand and Portland cement to the resulting tensile and compression strengths, it is possible that innovative uses for cement will be able to be studied or tested further. Cement is also not a very well known material in the classroom, and through the testing of different ratios of sand to cement, labs can be created for teachers to use within the classroom. Throughout the experiment, different ratios of sand to Portland cement will be tested based on their resulting compression and tensile strengths. By using a hydraulic press, the different samples can be tested to find the strongest resulting ratio of sand to Portland cement and different sample shapes. Throughout the course of the experiment, the different properties of cement will be explored to design potential lab activities for teachers to use in their classrooms to teach about cement.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

The effect of de-icing chemicals on the germination of plants.

It was recently discovered that roadside plants were often dead after a snow storm. Research indicated that it was caused by the presence of de-icing chemicals such as Sodium Chloride and Calcium Chloride. Four plastic Rubbermaid containers measuring 10.6in. x 6.in. x 2.5in. were used to determine if this were really true. Afterwards each container had been layered with two Bounty paper towels dampened with 30mL of water. Each had 12 sunflower seeds and 16 radish seeds in it. For the control group, plastic pieces were to be placed on top of the paper towels with the total mass of 3.5 grams but we could not find any. For the experimental group, Sodium Chloride and Calcium Chloride were placed on top of the paper towels also with a mass of 3.5 grams each. Research suggested that the germination of plants with the Calcium Chloride was affected more than the plants with the Sodium Chloride and plants with the plastic had normal growth.

Road Salt Concentrations and the Germination of Asteraceae

The purpose of this research was to determine the effects of the presence of road salt on germination rates across different plant species within the family Asteraceae. Five species of plants were tested using varying concentrations of salt water and a tap water control. Differences in germination rates, based on the number of days from planting to germination and number of peat pots in which germination occurred were observed. It was concluded that the presence of road salt does affect germination rates across different plant species within the family Asteraceae.

The difference in the chemical compositions between the undisturbed and disturbed lands.

This project examines the soil disturbance caused by human activity. Soil samples from both disturbed and undisturbed sites were collected and analyzed. Four different nutrient tests were conducted to compare the chemical composition levels. It was hypothesized that undisturbed soil samples would be higher in nutrients than disturbed samples. Results revealed that the undisturbed sites did contain higher nutrients compared to the disturbed ones. It was then concluded that human disturbance did play a major role in changing the chemical composition of soil.

Effects of Chlorogenic Acid on Tobacco Hornworm Behavior and Physiology

Tobacco and tomato hornworms (Manduca sexta) are the common large caterpillars that defoliate tomato plants. Chlorogenic acid is produced by tomato plants, which generally prevents other plants from growing nearby. It also hints to deter small organisms away. It was hypothesized that Hornworms may show an avoidance behavior to this acid. In this experiment Chlorogenic acid was tested upon tomato pests in order to see what effects, if any, it has on their larval form (the most damaging stage). The hornworms fasted for 24 hours in order to achieve the desired response. They, then, were placed on a corrugated board along with their food which was approximately 16-20 cm. away. The time it took for the Hornworms to realize the existence of food and getting to it was recorded. When the time was consistent, a strip of Chlorogenic acid was painted on the board. The worms were then observed to see if they would pass the Chlorogenic acid to get to the food. Data was collected, and analyzed. Preliminary results indicate that chlorogenic acid does affect the behavior of Hornworms. This chemical may be used as a solution to Hornworm infestation.

Using Daphnia and Lettuce Seed Bioassays to Assess the Toxicity of Local Waters

The subject of this experiment was to use lettuce seed and Daphnia bioassays to assess the toxicity of local waterways. The purpose of this experiment was to determine whether our local water ways are polluted and ascertain the effect of location. If local water ways are contaminated and lettuce seed and Daphnia bioassays are performed, then the number of surviving Daphnia and number of germinating lettuce seeds will decrease. Bioassays test the response of different organisms to a variety of environmental pollutants. Lettuce seeds and Daphnia are common organisms used in bioassays. Four water samples at 100% concentration and controls were placed in Petri dishes, with the addition of 10 lettuce seeds or 3 to 5 Daphnia. Responses were observed and recorded. The data suggested that all four waterways tested were not highly polluted. Using commercial tests for specific pollutants supported this conclusion.

The Effecys of Salinity Concentrations on the Viability of Adult Brine Shrimp

The purpose of this research was to determine the tolerance of brine shrimp to variations in salinity. Nine combinations of brine shrimp (n=100) were placed in solutions ranging from 16% to 30% salt water. The results showed that 66% of the shrimp placed in the 16%, 18%, 20%, 22%, 24% and 25% were viable for ten days. Shrimp placed in the 26%, 28% and 30% solutions were viable for ten days, four days and three days respectively. It was concluded that salinity concentrations of greater than 25% negatively affect the viability of brine shrimp.

Degradation of 2,4-D by plasmid PJP4 in Pseudomonas putida.

The purpose of this project was to observe the ability of plasmid PJP4 to degrade 2,4-D as well as to transform PJP4 negative bacteria to PJP4 positive. The effect of 2,4-D on planaria in the absence and presence of the herbicide degrading bacteria, Pseudomonas putida was observed. It was shown that there are multiple negative effects of 2,4-D on planaria such as retracted auricles and other morphological irregularities. The presence of the plasmid PJP4 in putida prevented these negative effects. Isolation techniques were used to extract the plasmid DNA from putida and E. coli were then transformed. Biotechnology can be used to transform indigenous bacteria with the degradation plasmid, thereby reducing the damage to aquatic ecosystems by 2,4-D runoff.

The melting Rates of Recyclable Plastics

The purpose of this research was to determine which recycled plastics would have high melting points compared to those plastics that do not have good resistance to heat. Each recycled plastic was put through two eight minute tests in a 1300 watt microwave oven. The time the plastic began to change form was recorded. Results showed that all of the plastics were affected by the heat of the microwave to varying degrees based on the characteristics of the plastic. It was found that, after all the categories of plastics were tested, the melting rates corresponded with the characteristics of the plastics as noted in the literature.

Effects of Turbulence on Philodina Rotifers Exposed to Toxicity

Past research has indicated that the results of toxicity tests on aquatic organisms carried out in laminar flow were distinct from those tests carried out in static flow. The purpose of this experiment was to determine whether a different type of fluid motion, namely, turbulence, would affect the toxicity of herbicide 2,4-D on freshwater (i)Philodina sp (i). Cultures with known concentrations of rotifers were established to determine the EC50, the concentration that led to 50% decrease of healthy rotifers. Four intensities of turbulence were tested on the rotifer culture exposed to EC50 by inserting a magnetic spin valve, spun by the stirring hot plate, in the culture. This 24h experiment was repeated with varying concentrations of 2,4-D. To ensure that the turbulent motion did not harm the organisms, an additional four cultures without any herbicide were established and was exposed to fluid dynamics. Data was collected by enumerating encysted, dead, and living rotifers and the intensities of turbulence, Reynold’s number, was calculated.

The Allelopathic Effect of Cladonia Lichen Leachate on Mycorrhizae Growth

The purpose of this experiment was to see if leachate from Cladonia lichen would prevent growth of mycorrhizal fungi cultures. Fungal cultures were exposed to paper disks soaked with Cladonia leachate. Control sets were exposed to distilled water. Research suggests that leachate of Cladonia inhibits growth of fungi. Further investigation on experiment is in process.

The Effectiveness of Juglone As An Alternative to Natural Herbicides

Many commercial herbicides use manmade chemicals as their active ingredient. Since the development of RoundUp, the popularity of these herbicides have grown. It has been observed that the base of the Black Walnut tree has very little, if any, growth of invading plant species. This was due to the husks of the black walnut, containing the chemical Juglone. Juglone is said to have herbicidal properties that may match the power of Glysophate. (the active ingredient of RoundUP as well as some other commercial herbicides) The purpose of this experiment is to test the herbicidal strength of Juglone against that of commercial herbicides.

Quantitative Analysis of Triclosan and DEET in Local Tap Waters

Gas Chromatography (GC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) were used to analyze the amount of triclosan and DEET, two suspected endocrine disruptors, in local water samples. Water samples were taken from Woodbridge, Fords, Highland Park, Rutgers University Cook College Campus, and the Delaware-Raritan Canal. The canal directly feeds the water treatment plant for the other sampled areas. Standards were created to calibrate the GC-MS at concentrations of 100 ng/mL, 80 ng/mL, 60 ng/mL, 40 ng/mL, and 20 ng/mL. Quality control was done by spiking pure (Milli-Q) water with a known quantity of the standards. Spiked water was extracted and analyzed to show a 93% recovery of added compounds. Samples were extracted using solid-phase extraction with SDB-XC Empore disks. Triclosan and DEET were found in a majority of samples. Triclosan was found at concentrations as low as 1 ng/L and as high as 24 and 53 ng/L in Fords water. DEET was found in concentrations around 2-3 ng/L.

Using Spectrophotometric Techniques to Quantify the Bioremediation of Oil Spills.

On site the effect of bioremediation of oil spills is difficult to analyze. Simulated oil contaminated beach environments were created using oil, sand, water, and bacteria with collection modules inserted inside each environment. Some of the environments received fertilizer; the environments without fertilizer were the controls. Readings from each environment were taken using a spectrophotometer and analyzed over a period of time. The results indicated the presence of bioremediation, but the nature of the collection modules caused significant variations in the outcome of the results.

Effects of Goose Feces on Water Quality and Aquatic Life

Each year geese feces are rid of high school sports fields and deposited in the rivers adjacent to the school grounds. Because these waterways are home to aquatic life and also may serve as drinking water for surrounding towns, it is important to know how feces will affect water quality and life. Three experiments were performed to see the effects of geese feces on water quality and aquatic life. First, the feces were tested for the presence of salmonella and E. coli by swabbing samples of feces on SS agar and EMB agar. Second, multiple beakers with various percentages of feces were tested and observed over a period of one week to measure decreasing and increasing amounts of various components, including oxygen, nitrite, nitrate, and pH. The third experiment tested the effects of feces on goldfish and blue channel catfish. The fish were introduced to various amounts of feces and monitored to see their response to the environment as the changes in water quality. It was found that fecal matter between .5% and 1% was detrimental to the well being of fish; the pathogens in the feces harmed the fish and decreased oxygen, the fecal matter increased nitrogen levels, and the pH reached unhealthy, harmful levels.

Determination of the Presence of Contaminants in Well Water in Warren County, NJ

The purpose of this research was to examine if indicators of contamination were present in well water samples from Warren County, New Jersey, and, if present, to determine if levels of contamination were within normal well water standards. Twenty-five water samples were collected from wells in Warren County, NJ. The protocol established for use with a freshwater pollution testing kit was followed for testing the water. Results of the tests were all within the normal well water standards. It was found that the well water in Warren County, NJ was not contaminated.

MATHEMATICS

The Impact of Starting Hands on the Outcome of Texas HoldEm.

The purpose of this research was to determine what impact, if any, the initial hands in Texas Hold’Em had on the outcome of the game. One-hundred and eighteen games of poker were played and the two hands involved were recorded along with the five community cards. The starting hands were separated into five categories and the winning percentages of each hand type were recorded. All the games were examined to determine how often each initial hand ended the game with a certain final combination and the findings were also recorded. After several ANOVA tests were examined, it was found that there was no significant difference in the percentages of the winning hands or in the frequency that starting hands reached certain ending combinations.

Variations in Strategies on the Success of RISK

The purpose of this research was to determine the effectiveness of a series of strategies on the outcome of the game RISK. A series of RISK games (n=50) was played with passive, moderate and aggressive strategies. For each game recorded, there are three data collection points. Results showed that the different strategies were effective in specific areas of the game. For example, an aggressive strategy was most effective in taking countries. Upon analysis with two-tailed t-tests, it was concluded that there was a significant difference between the effectiveness of the three strategies used in the game of RISK

The Effect of a Baseball Players Achievements and its Contribution to the team

The purpose of this research was to examine the impact of one baseball player’s contribution based on his stats versus his team’s overall success. Batting averages were collected during the 2005 Major League Baseball season from both the starting players and their teams. The player’s individual batting average data was compared to the averaged data of the entire team. The results varied for each individual team and for the contributing players. It was found that, overall, one player’s personal success cannot help the progress of a team through the season, into the playoffs and to a championship.

MICROBIOLOGY

Herbs, can they be the Next Generation of Medicine?

The miracle of herbal medication has been used for centuries spanning all the way back to the first generations of our species. One major problem today is that many strains of bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics. As these resistant bacteria continue to spread, we are always looking for alternative medications to eradicate them. In our experimentations we plan on taking extracts from herbs known to have anti-bacterial properties, such as Lomatium Dissectum, Osha (Liguisticum porteri), Yebra Santa (Erodictyon californicum), and Astragalus, and apply them to indicator organisms: Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli (3). By completing these experiments, we hope to receive results that show the herbs prevent the bacteria from growing in what is known as the area of inhibition, which shall show to some extent that the specified herbs do have anti-bacterial properties, and can be used to treat wounds and some viral infections.

Adaptive Resistance of E. coli to Triclosan and Antibiotic Cross-Resistance

Recent concern has been directed towards the public health risks imposed by the increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which may be caused by the unregulated use of biocides. It has been suggested that many of these antibiotic-resistant bacteria may be direct results of the natural phenomena of adaptive resistance to biocides and cross-resistance to antibiotics. The purpose of this research is to test the possibility that the adaptive resistance of bacteria to triclosan leads to cross-resistance to the antibiotics ampicillin, chloramphenicol, novobiocin, penicillin, penicillin G, and streptomycin. E. coli K12 was cultured and exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of triclosan that gradually increased in concentration during five cyclic exposures. After each exposure, the cultures were tested for antibiotic cross-resistance by using antibiotic disks and measuring the zones of inhibition in order to study the development of any antibiotic resistances that result. I expect that the E. coli will adapt to resist the effects of triclosan and this adaptive resistance will gradually cause the bacteria to become more resistant to the antibiotics ampicillin, penicillin, and penicillin G because these antibiotics have similar bacterial targets as triclosan. If this result is achieved, it will signify that the uncontrolled, household use of biocides may have potential, public health effects through the creation of antibiotic resistant bacteria.

The effect of Cod Liver Oil on Escherichia coli.

THE EFFECTS OF ESCHERICHIA COLI ON COD LIVER OIL Mansoor, Amtul. John F. Kennedy Memorial High School Teacher: Mrs. Kathleen Piccinich Research has shown that the exposure of certain bacteria (Escherichia coli) to vitamins A and E can increase their proliferation and decrease their ability to translocate to different areas. Cod liver oil, a dietary supplement, is rich in vitamins A, D, and omega-3 fatty acids. It was hypothesized the E-coli exposed to vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin A and D together, and cod liver oil would increase the proliferation of E-coli. 5 groups of E-coli were grown on nutrient agar for 24 hours. Disk saturated in vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin A and D, cod liver oil, and distilled water (control) were placed in newly formed E-coli colonies. Bacteria were examined at 48 hours, and 72 hours for sign of increased growth. Data was collected and analyzed using a T-test. Preliminary data suggest that vitamin A and cod liver oil had some effect on the growth of E-coli, but vitamin D, and vitamin A and D, had no effect of the growth of E-coli. It is hoped that an increase in proliferation would help in increasing normal flora.

pH Adjusted Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a relatively recently advancement in the treatment of tumors and infectious bacteria that employs a photosensitizer (PS), a specially engineered drug that is sensitive to high-wavelength light. This is especially useful for cases of superficial tumors or localized bacterial infections, as surgical incision is unecessary. Through manipulation of the PS, selective absorption can be achieved to eradicate certain specific types of cells. It has been shown in Cunderlikova, et al. 1999, that adjusting the pH of the area around PDT targeted cells to between 5.0 and 5.5 will maximize absorption of the cerium-6 photosensitizer. In this experiment, it was hypothesized that PDT eradication of Staphylococcus epidermidis could be achieved through lowering the pH of the growth medium. In comparing treatment of the bacteria at pH levels of 7.4 (human blood) and 5.5 (ideal antisepsis), lower pH was correlared with greater eradication. A t-test was used to compare the change in surface area of the bacteria before and after treatment. While the results were not statistically significant, they show potential for using pH adjustment as a method of improving PDT. This serves as a model for the eradication of MRSA bacteria, a major problem in hospitals worldwide.

The effect of natural anti-carcinogens on yeast cells when exposed to UV light

The subject of my experiment was to determine the effects of green tea, vitamin C, vitamin D, or vitamin E on yeast cells exposed to UV radiation. The purpose was to determine if any of these agents could reduce the detrimental effects of UV radiation. If theses agents protect yeast from UV radiation damage, and yeast are given these agents prior to UV exposure, then there should be an increased survival rate. UV radiation is a known mutagen that disrupts the natural base pairing of DNA. The literature is full of claims about the anti-carcinogenic effects of green tea, vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin E but no definitive studies have been done. First, optimal yeast dilutions and UV exposure times were determined. The various agents were administered to the yeast dilutions, plated, and exposed to UV radiation. Results were observed and recorded. The number of yeast on plates exposed to radiation with vitamin D compared favorably to the number of yeast cells on plates with vitamin D but not exposed to radiation. The number of yeast cells on plates exposed to radiation with vitamin D was greater than plates exposed to radiation without vitamin D. The data suggests that Vitamin D may provide protection against UV radiation.

Beneficial effects of fructooligosaccharides on L.acidophilus under heat treatment.

Researchers have found a wide spectrum of positive effects on the human body that lactobacillus provide, a type of bacteria abundant in yogurt. However, for the sake of a longer shelf life, manufacturers pasteurize their yogurt, killing these specific strains of cultures in the process. FOS, a non-digestible dietary fiber, is found to amplify the numbers of lactobacillus in the body. It was hypothesized that FOS may allow lactobacillus acidophilus (a specific type)to survive under the strain of pasteurization. To test this theory, L.acidophilus was cultured on plates of tomato Juice agar that were administered different amounts of FOS. The plates were immediately placed in an incubator at 49 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes to inhibit growth, and then allowed to proliferate at 37 degrees. Data supported the hypothesis that FOS would amplify L.acidophilus values under heat treatment. A T-test was performed. Statistical analysis supported hypothesis at a 95% confidence level.

The effects of most commonly found herbal medicines on Escherichia Coli.

Escherichia Coli, a common bacterium in our colon and part of our normal flora can become infectious when found in other parts of our body. Food handlers who do not wash their hands between bathroom use are often carriers of Escherichia Coli(E.Coli) and can contaminate food. Herbal Medicines have been noted to decrease bacterial growth. It was hypothesized that E.Coli exposed to Herbs such as Ginger, Turmeric, Garlic, and different combinations of each will decrease the growth of E.Coli. E.Coli was grown on Nutrient Agar and was divided into 3 groups and then grown for the time period of 24 hours. Discs were saturated in each herbal solution and then put in the grown Bacteria. Zones of inhibition were measured and T-test were done after a 24 hour time period after discs were put in. Statistical analysis indicated that Garlic, Turmeric, and Ginger can reduce the amount of E.Coli.

The Effect of Natural Substances on Bacteria

The subject of this experiment was to determine if garlic, olive leaf extract, grapefruit seed extract, or aloe vera have antibiotic properties. The purpose was to find alternative treatments for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. If these natural substances have antibiotic properties and gram negative bacteria and gram positive bacteria are exposed to these substances, then there should be decreased bacterial growth. There have been many unverified claims as to the antibiotic properties of these natural substances, but no definitive experimental studies have been done to support these claims. The natural substances were tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis using the Kirby Baur Sensitivity method and the Phenol coefficient method to determine their effectiveness as antibiotics. Results from the Kirby Baur Sensitivity method showed that garlic had the greatest zone of inhibition against both gram negative bacteria (2.1 mm) and gram positive bacteria (9.4 mm). Grapefruit seed extract showed the second greatest zone of inhibition average with 1.4 mm for gram negative bacteria and 5.1 mm for gram positive bacteria. These results suggest that garlic and grapefruit seed extract contain antibiotic properties and that they are most effective against gram positive bacteria.

Can Seaweed Extract Be Used As An Antimicrobial Agent?

Herbs are of natural medicine and help fight off diseases and illnesses while building up our immune system when necessary. In many Asian countries, plants are a critical source of income and consumption though recently, many crops have been destroyed due to certain bacteria that have contaminated their crops. This has caused a great deficit in the economy as well as in the crop’s harvest. The seaweed plant is a rising herb known for its anti-bacterial properties as well as its great taste. The purpose of our experiment was to test the effects of the seaweed extract against a harmful bacterium know to contaminate plants that are found in Asian crops. After testing different levels of seaweed and bacteria on grass, our results supported the idea that seaweed aids in the growth of grass and inhibition of plant bacteria. Not only is seaweed extract recognized for its anti-bacterial properties but aids in the growth of many plants.

Investigation of Lifespan Length With Mutant Nematodes Grown on A. faecalis

The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is used as a model to study the lifespan of multicellular organisms. The C. elegans lifespan mutant age-1 is able to live 60% longer compared to the wild type (N2) when grown on E. coli as a food source. Last year, this researcher found that the normally long-lived age-1 mutant, a mutant in the insulin-like signaling pathway (ILSP) was significantly short-lived compared to the N2 when grown on the bacteria A. faecalis as a food source. This researcher concluded that the A. faecalis food source is able to dominate the ILSP. To extend this hypothesis 2 other mutants of the C. elegans ILSP, daf-2 and daf-28, were tested with A. faecalis as the food source. On the A. faecalis food source the 2 long lived mutants daf-2 and daf-28 had a significantly shorter lifespan compared to their lifespan when grown on E. coli. These results extend the observation that the A. faecalis food source decreases the lifespan of different mutants in the ILSP which normally increases lifespan. This researcher is attempting to isolate suppressor mutants of the age-1 mutant grown on A. faecalis. Using ethylmethylsulfonate as a mutagen, 2 potential suppressor mutants were isolated that lived twice as long on the A. faecalis food source compared to the age-1 strain. Interestingly, these two suppressors both had small outgrowths visible on their posterior end.

Quantifying Bacterial Survival During Controlled Biomass Combustion.

The travel of microbes via wind has potential to result in the global spread of diseases. This happens when plant foliage or infected organisms are incinerated. To demonstrate how microbes from plant foliage can spread,-dried lawn clippings were burned. The viable spores emitted with the resulting smoke were collected and placed on agar to grow potential colonies. Results concurred that bacterial microbes and spores were indeed present in the particulate matter emitted with the smoke. With these results it is possible to conclude that the spread of microbial diseases on a global level could decrease if the number of large conflagration of plant foliage and infected organisms decreases as well.

Green Tea to Cure Acne?

Propionibacterium acnes are anaerobic bacteria that live in certain hair follicles of human skin and feed on sebum (skin oil) to produce propionic acid, an irritant that causes inflammation manifested as acne. Recent studies using (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a component of green tea, have shown its bactericidal effect on a variety of bacteria. Green tea has been an age-old Chinese remedy for acne. This study investigates any possible effect of EGCG on P acnes, which would indicate the method for the Chinese remedy’s success. Anaerobic liquid cultures of P acnes were treated with various concentrations of EGCG dissolved in DMSO, incubated for 72 hours, and examined via spectrophotometry for absorbance, which indicated the bacteria’s viability. Expected results show EGCG’s bactericidal effects on acne’s causal agent in vitro. Since prior research indicates that EGCG is not harmful to somatic cells, this research suggests the use of EGCG as a topical acne treatment.

An Investigation into Antigenic Variation in Trypanosoma brucei: RNAi Knock-down of Proteins Interfering with RNA Polymerase I Transcription of VSG Expression Sites in Procyclics

The bloodstream form of trypanosomes, the parasites that cause approximately 60,000 people per year to develop “African sleeping sickness”, undergoes a unique form of antigenic variation in which it continuously switches its protein coat to evade the immune system of its host. The form of trypanosome carried by the vector tsetse flies has this antigenic switching mechanism turned off. In order to identify factors involved in the control of this antigenic switching mechanism, I utilized a genetic construct designed to turn off production of proteins involved in repression of the antigenic variation mechanism in the vector form of trypanosomes. The genetic construct was linked to a reporter gene which would produce a green fluorescent color in transformed trypanosomes indicating intake of genes causing control factors to be de-repressed. Understanding the mechanisms controlling antigenic variation in the bloodstream form of trypanosomes is vital in order to learn how to inhibit this continuous antigenic variation making it possible for the immune system to destroy the parasites so people can recover from the disease.

MEDICINE and HEALTH

Can You Improve Your Vision With Eye Exercises?

The claim that exercises can improve one’s vision is very controversial. The See Clearly Method is a popular program, marketed by Vision Improvement Technologies (VIT), which features 16 exercises to enhance eyesight. This program claims that the exercises may improve vision without the use of glasses, contact lenses or surgery, possibly lowering or eliminating a person’s dependency on corrective lenses. The only support for these claims comes from testimonials, such as those provided on VIT’s website, and not from any scientific studies. The purpose of this study was to try to answer the obvious question: “Does the 'See Clearly Method' work?” This experiment tested 2 of the 16 exercises, each of which is purported to improve overall vision when performed as part of a regimen or individually. Participating students were divided into either a control group or an experimental group that regularly performed the exercises. Both groups were tested for vision on a weekly basis for three weeks. Preliminary results imply that minor vision improvement is possible through the See Clearly Method.

Effect of Sleep Deprivation on Blood Pressure in Young Adults and Adolescents

The purpose of this experiment is to verify that chronic sleep deprivation, with no other resulting factors, can cause an increase in the blood pressures of young adults and adolescents. A survey was designed to find out the severity of the subjects sleep deprivation and to reveal any other disorders that would affect the data. The blood pressure of each subject was taken while sitting in the left arm. Those that had other problems that affected either their sleep patterns/habits or blood pressures were analyzed, but ultimately eliminated from the data used in the final statistical analysis. The data was compared to the national occurrence of hypertension of adolescents in the US. While examining the data, I discovered that sleep deprivation does cause an increase in blood pressures of young adults and adolescents to a prehypertensive level. This data is important because hypertension can cause cardiovascular failure and many other long term problems with the health of those affected by it.

Effects of Isatis indigotica on nicotine and cell death

Isatis indigotica, a plant commonly used in China to treat the common cold and other illnesses, has been shown to have immunostimulatory and anti-endotoxic effects on organisms. This experiment tested whether Isatis indigotica has a protective effect on cells exposed to nicotine at toxin levels. Mouse (Mus musculus) fibroblast cells were cultured into four groups: a control, nicotine exposed, Isatis exposed, and Isatis and nicotine exposed. Cells were counted after 24 hours of exposure to calculate rate of apoptosis and rate of cell proliferation.

Staining on Human Teeth as a Result of Exposure to Common Beverages

The purpose of this research was to determine the effects of several common substances on the enamel of human teeth. Twelve sets of teeth were exposed to red PowerAde, Pepsi, espresso, chewing tobacco juice, red wine and water. A pair of each of the two sets of teeth was brushed daily. The others were rinsed with water to simulate saliva. An unpaired t-test was used to establish there was a statistical difference (confidence level of 95%) between brushed and un-brushed teeth. It was found that brushing does greatly reduce the depth of staining in tooth enamel.

Creation of a Novel Chimeric T-cell Receptor with Co-Stimulatory Signal 4-1BB to Redirect T-Lymphocytes Targeting Tumor Cells

In most patients with cancer, the immune system fails to effectively target and destroy tumor cells. T cells are a subset of immune cells that in certain cases are able to recognize and kill tumor cells. In order for T-cells to proliferate and differentiate into cytotoxic cells, they require two distinct extracellular signals. The first signal, termed “signal 1,” is provided by the tumor antigen binding to the T-cell receptor. The second signal, termed “signal 2,” for T-cell activation is provided by co-stimulatory receptors such as CD28 and 4-1BB which function together with bound T-cell receptor signals to efficiently activate T-cells, allowing these cells to both proliferate and kill target cancer cells. In the absence of this co-stimulation, T-cells that encounter target antigens on tumor cells either die or become unresponsive to tumor cells. Genetic approaches are currently available which allow for the modification of a patient’s own T-lymphocytes to more specifically target their tumor cells through the insertion of an artificial T cell receptor called a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). Previous studies show that the combination of both activation and co-stimulation signals (TCRæ and CD28 signaling domains) within such an artificial T cell receptor, results in both tumor cell specificity, tumor killing, and a modest co-stimulatory signal. In an attempt to further enhance an artificial co-stimulatory signal, we propose to genetically modify T-cells by inserting two separate receptors, the first for the activation signal (through the TCRæ chain), and the second for the co-stimulatory signal (through the CD28 signaling domain). We believe that the addition of a separate receptor for the co-stimulatory signaling will result in an amplified the T-cell co-stimulatory response to tumor cells. I generated a novel T-cell receptor able to provide a co-stimulatory response in T-cell activation against tumor cells. I constructed this receptor by fusing the variable region of a tumor antigen specific antibody to the 4-1BB co-stimulatory signaling domain. The receptor includes a HIS6 tag to allow us to verify the expression of the receptor on T-cells by antibody analysis. This fusion receptor is specific for PSMA, which is associated with an array of tumors, therefore acting as an attractive target for immunotherapy. Co-stimulatory molecule 4-1BB can influence cytokine production, proliferation, and survival of T-cells in vitro and in vivo. Next summer, I plan to extend my work to testing whether T-cells modified to express both a TCRæ chain-based CAR as well as my 41BB based co-stimulatory receptor are functional in vitro, and are able to eradicate established tumors in mice.

The Effect of Acrylamide on Mouse Fibroblasts

Acrylamide, or C3H5NO, is a known carcinogen. Acrylamide is used in soil stabilization, for repairing sewers, and in acrylamide gels used in biotechnology laboratories. To investigate the effect of the chemical compound, the experiment reported here measured the rate of apoptosis, or cell death, of mouse fibroblasts in vitro exposed to varied solutions, a 5 mM, a 2.5 mM, a 1 mM, a .5 mM, and a 0 mM, of acrylamide. The results will indicate the toxicity of acrylamide in mouse fibroblast cells. The expected finding from this experiment is an increase of fibroblast apoptosis proportionately to the increase of acrylamide concentration in solution.

Effects of Arsenic Trioxide in Human Bone Marrow With Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (k562)

Arsenic trioxide is part of the general group of chemotherapy drugs known as antineoplastics. Antineoplastics are types of drugs which inhibit the proliferation of neoplasms that may become malignant by targeting the DNA. Arsenic trioxide is used to treat leukemia in patients who do not respond to other medication regimens. Chronic myelogenous leukemia is highly resistant to chemotherapeutic drugs. Previous studies have shown that arsenic trioxide has induced apoptosis in chronic myelogenous leukemia K562 cells. The purpose of this experiment was to compare the toxic effect of arsenic trioxide at various concentrations on a chronic myelogenous leukemia K562 cell line and a normal diploid cell line. The cytotoxicity of arsenic trioxide will be determined by a CellTiter 96 Aqueous One Solution Cell Proliferation Assay. The validity of the results will be analyzed by ANOVA and student T-tests.

A More Discriminating Insect Repellant

Pesticides repel insects for the benefit of humans (FIFRA, 1996), such as by reducing health risks associated with harmful insects (Weiss, 2004). Existing repellants have the unintended consequence of repelling beneficial insects; an ideal repellant would not; however no such repellant exists (Fradin, 1998). This experiment seeks to: build an apparatus to test discriminatory repellents; prove statistical validity of that apparatus; prepare a chemical discriminatory repellant; and use statistics to analyze experimental data to demonstrate that the repellant is discriminatory. For this experiment, DEET, the most used insect repellent (Montemarano 1997), is a stand-in for all existing insect repellants. Though no experimental data could be found that demonstrates lemongrass oil is a discriminatory repellent, personal observation suggested it was. The research which follows confirms that with 95% confidence, the apparatus built would accurately differentiate between discriminatory and non-discriminatory repellants. Additionally, a mixture of citronella (the active element in lemongrass oil) with DEET resulted in a repellant that was statistically significantly more discriminatory than DEET alone, as measured during a one month trial. In particular, with a 95% confidence the discriminatory repellant, repelled 14% more harmful insects (as defined by Pennsylvania Integrated Pest Management Program) than DEET. Harmful insect borne diseases kill millions more children than cancer each year (WHO 2005), thus a 14% repellant improvement would save hundreds of thousands more children each year than a cure for cancer. Future work includes developing a crystallized form of discriminatory repellant for harmful insects which sublimates near external human body temperature.

Effect of Lovastatin on Astrocytes Stimulated By Cytokines to Form Pro-inflammatory Substances Mcp-1 and Nitric Oxide

Astrocytes play an important role in brain homeostasis and may contribute to the pathogenesis of multiple diseases of the adult nervous system, specifically Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by amyloid beta plaque, which accumulates in the brain. Astrocytes are the focus of this investigation as they are shown to degrade this plaque while simultaneously producing pro-inflammatory substances that damage brain cells. My experiments sought to reproduce an inflammatory response and test it with the pharmaceutical drug, lovastatin, believed to limit inflammatory responses. Astrocytes responded to pro-inflammatory cytokines such as Interleukin 1-B and Tumor necrosis factor alpha by producing harmful reactive oxygen species, MCP-1 and NO-. Treatment by lovastatin was relatively ineffective at concentrations tested.

An electromagnetic beacon for the visually impaired

There are ten million visually impaired people in the United States. Only a small percentage of these people use Seeing Eye dogs or navigational devices. If electromagnetic waves were used to help them navigate they could become more self sufficient. A device was constructed that can pick up electromagnetic waves by using a phone tap and amplifier which was than turned into an audible sound by the use of a coil located in the amplifier. This device was than attached to a cane, therefore making the application more practical. Subjects were tested four times and although no statistical analysis has yet been completed, it is clear that each subject’s final time has improved from their first; improvements vary from 5 seconds to 1 minute and 57 seconds. This suggests that it is possible to learn and use this system in real life situations.

Beta-Adrenergic Receptor Mediated Amyloiogenesis in Mouse Astrocytes

Astrocytes are the most numerous glial cells in the central nervous system and are often clustered around senile plaques in Alzheimer's disease brains. A defect in their ability to digest β-amyloid possibly induces astrocytes to promote synthesis of this protein and exacerbate neuronal death. A possible mechanism of astrocyte-mediated amyloidogenesis involving β-adrenergic receptors was investigated. It was found that propranolol, a β-adrenergic receptor antagonist, decreases synthesis of both types of β-amyloid implicated in disease and that overexpression of APP on astrocytes possibly promotes amyloidogenesis. In addition, it was revealed that treatment with propranolol decreases the production of proinflammatory cytokines known to promote β-amyloid synthesis. Based on the data and background research, it was concluded that stimulation of β-adrenergic receptors increases β-amyloid synthesis through two pathways potentiated by cAMP.

The Effects of Bathroom Cleaners on Mold

The purpose of this project was to compare non chlorinated bathroom cleaners against Clorox, a chlorinated cleaner, to see how efficient the non chlorinated cleaners were. This was because people who suffer from asthma or who get asthmatic symptoms shouldn’t use chlorinated cleaners because the fumes cause reactions to their sinus’ and bring about coughing, sneezing, and other breathing and congestion problems. Aspergillus niger was streaked on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar using the standard biological procedure. After given time to let the mold grow, sterilized 5 centimeter disks were then dipped in either Clorox, Scrubbing Bubbles or an Eco-Friendly cleaner for 5 seconds and then placed in a triangular shape about 1 centimeter from the other disks and the walls of the dish (3 disks to each plate.) After 48 hours, the zone of inhibitions were then measured in centimeters and recorded. It is predicted that Scrubbing Bubbles will be more efficient then the Eco-Friendly cleanser because past experiment show it cleans almost as well as a chlorinated cleanser without the harmful effects of the fumes.

The Effect of Artificial Sweeteners on Developmental Mutations in Caernorhabditis elegans

The subject of this experiment was to test the effects of artificial sweeteners, Splenda, Equal, and Sweet’N Low on Caenorhabditis elegans. The purpose of the study was to determine if artificial sweeteners can cause developmental mutations in C. elegans. If artificial sweeteners are mutagenic, and C. elegans are administered artificial sweeteners, then developmental mutations may arise. There have been several claims as to the mutagenic effects of these artificial sweeteners, but no conclusive experimental studies have been done. Larva 1 or Larva 2 C. elegans worms were placed on agar plates containing a concentration of 10%, 25%, or 60% solution of artificial sweetener and observed over several generations. Results showed behavioral differences in all sweeteners and an increased rate of reproduction. Possible mutant phenotypes may have also been observed but were not clear. The data suggests that artificial sweeteners, when consumed in large quantities, have detrimental effects on behavior. Although the data does not help clarify the mutagenic effect of artificial sweeteners it weakly suggests the possibility. Further trials are needed.

The Effects of Music Genres on Heart Rate and Blood Pressure

The purpose of this research was to determine if different genres of music, with regard to gender, age, and the music each individual preferred, have any effect on blood pressure or heart rate. Twenty-five subjects were tested using a digital blood pressure/heart rate monitor while each listened to five songs of different genres. Results showed that changes in blood pressure and heart rate had no correlation with gender, age, or preferred type of music. It was concluded, using one-sample t-tests, that different genres of music have no significant effect on blood pressure or heart rate.

The Effect of Radon on the Incidence of Alzheimers disease

The recent increase in pollution has affected the human health in various ways. Radon, is a radioactive element produced as a by product of uranium mines and coal combustion. It has been linked mostly with the p53, tumor suppressor gene. Radon alters this gene therefore creating mutants of the p53 protein, which cannot function to suppress tumors. The p53 gene is also linked to Alzheimer’s disease, a neurodegenerative disease found prevalent in many parts of the United States. There are many predisposing causes to the occurrence of Alzheimer’s; one of which is the Beta Amyloid Theory states that the beta amyliod peptides are the primary causes for the disease. There are many amyloid peptides; the most toxic is the Abeta-42. This polypeptide causes programmed neuron death. The mutant p53 gene prevents the Abeta-42 from affecting the neuronal cells. This mutant p53 can be produced as a result of the radon. Another predisposing cause of Alzheimer’s is the gene PS1. This gene has shown to increase the chances of early onset Alzheimer’s disease. The p53 mutants can cause a down regulation of PS1, which in turn can prevent the early onset of the disease. With the methods of a population study, there was an indirect correlation between the levels of radon and the incidence of deaths indirectly caused by Alzheimer’s. Results showed with an increase in the radon levels decreased the number of deaths. This aspect could be researched farther to find an isotope of radon most effective to reduce Alzheimer’s symptoms.

The Physical Characteristics of Pollen Grains that Contribute to Allergic Reactions

The purpose of this research was to determine which flower from a select group would be most likely to cause allergic rhinitis. Pollen samples from various flowers were obtained, identified, and compared (n=13). Results showed that sample nine, the tulip, had many protruding features. Thus it was found that of the flower types in this group, the tulip was most likely to cause allergic rhinitis.

Statistical Analysis of Lifestyle Choices and Type II Diabetes

The purpose of my experiment was to show a statistical relationship between the increasing prevalence of diabetes and specific lifestyle and health habits in the US population. I collected data from online publications on certain lifestyle characteristics and their relationship to diabetes, and analyzed them using Pearson’s correlation, which is a statistical test that measures a relationship between two variables. I found which characteristics were most closely and strongly associated with the incidence of diabetes. My findings support the message from the medical community that obesity and being overweight are the greatest risk factors for developing diabetes. On the other hand, a diet low on fruits and vegetables and smoking do not present as great a risk for diabetes.

Effects of caffeine and counter-effects of fluvoxamine on cell apoptosis

Studies have shown that caffeine inhibits the growth of tumor cells by blocking vital cellular processes. Not many experiments have determined the effects of caffeine on non-cancerous cells. To test these effects, mouse fibroblast cells were treated with varying concentrations of caffeine. The cells were counted 24 hours after exposure, and the rate of apoptosis and LD50 were calculated. Expected results would show that caffeine causes apoptosis. Fluvoxamine, an antidepressant drug that blocks certain neurotransmitters, is a substance proven to negate the effects of caffeine in the body. To test if fluvoxamine cancels the effects of caffeine on cell apoptosis, the same mouse fibroblast line was treated with LD50 of caffeine and varying concentrations of fluvoxamine. The cells were counted 24 hours after exposure to calculate apoptosis rates. Expected results would show that fluvoxamine would counter apoptosis caused by LD50 of caffeine.

Anti Dessication Properties of American Eel Glycoproteins

The purpose of this experiment was to test the anti desiccation properties of glycoprotein that was produced by the American eel. Water saturated polymer samples were coated with glycoprotein. The masses of the coated samples were compared to noncoated samples before and after they were placed in the drying oven. Although research is ongoing, preliminary results suggest that there is a significant change in the mass of the glycoprotein coated polymer samples before and after desiccation.

Effect of Ultra Violet Radiation on Prevalence of Osteoporosis

Many people are experiencing the painful effects of Osteoporosis. The aim of this study was to clarify whether increased UV radiation results in reduced prevalence of Osteoporosis. Although ozone exposure is known to cause various types of cancer and other serious diseases, few people know that vitamin D from sun exposure is necessary to maintain healthy bones. Monthly averages of UV indices and data regarding hospitalizations for Osteoporotic factors were obtained for the years 1997, 2000, and 2001 for New Jersey, Arizona, Florida, and Hawaii. This data was tabulated into Excel and correlated using the Pearson Correlation. Preliminary data indicates an inverse relationship between UV radiation and Osteoporosis. This is due to exposure to vitamin D, which increases the calcium absorption in bones; thus, reducing the risk of Osteoporosis. Therefore, the hypothesis is corroborated. This study reveals that UV radiation may be a beneficial factor to the prevention of Osteoporotic conditions. In order to gain a better understanding of such a correlation, further research should include a larger sample size over a longer period of time, and socioeconomic and meteorological factors.

Degradation Rate of Superabsorbent Polymers Under Simulated Human Stomach Conditions

The ability of a polyacrylamide-polyvinylacetate composite (PPC) to degrade under simulated human stomach conditions was tested. Polymer samples were placed in beakers containing 300mL of stomach substances HCL, trypsin, and pepsin for a period of 6- weeks, after which they were removed. After the samples had been exposed to the various stomach conditions, the rate of degradation was tested. One hole each was drilled into the end of the PPC prior to its suspension from a force meter from one end. The other end was connected to a hook that was placed in grooved designed to quantify the force required to degrade a PPC. The force meter and CBL used recorded the amount of force taken to tear the composite. It was anticipated that polymer samples would degrade after considerable force had been applied. However, after the gathered data was analyzed using a t-test, results indicated that the two sets of trials were not significant. Additionally, the conduction of this study and the data thus gathered may suggest a potential alternative to Gastric Bypass Surgery and other weight loss methods.

Geostatistical Analyses of Etiological Agents in MS, Lyme, and Related Conditions

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disorder in which the body’s T-cells attack the myelin sheath surrounding axons in the central nervous system. MS is the most common neurological disorder of young adults, yet there is no known cure nor has its cause been identified. Several lines of research, however, suggest that MS is influenced by geographic factors. This study uses geostatistical analyses (spatial analyses, statistical techniques including correlation and stepwise regression) to compare the state- and county-level distributions of MS and Lyme Disease. These techniques help in evaluating whether MS should be considered a zoonotic disease with an Ixodid tick vector and a possible spirochetal influence. MS and Lyme are also compared to thirteen other diseases/conditions which are either: 1) also hypothesized to have a geographic factor or bacterial cause; or 2) serve as controls. Early examination using spatial analysis revealed a distribution overlap between MS and Lyme and statistically significant correlations. In addition, the state-level correlation between MS and breast cancer is 0.330 (p=0.018) and between MS and Motor Neuron Disease, the value is 0.618 (p=0.000). The control, external accident/injury, did not yield significant correlations. All non-Lyme Disease data were obtained from the CDC. As there is no central research repository for Lyme county-level incidence data, analysis required requesting data from each state epidemiologist. Compiling the data has resulted in one of the most comprehensive Lyme databases available to researchers. The results of the analyses suggest a common vector and/or etiological agent in MS and the related diseases.

The Effect of Purple Grape Juice on the Adherence of Streptococcus mutans to Tooth Surfaces

Polyphenol, a powerful antioxidant found in purple grapes, has been reported to prevent cardiovascular diseases and decrease blood pressure. Moreover, polyphenols from Oolong tea and cocoa bean husk extract have been linked to the prevention of tooth decay in previous scientific studies. Thus, this study was based on finding a similar link between polyphenols from purple grape juice and the prevention of tooth decay. In this study, hydraxapatite pieces were used to resemble tooth surfaces. These surfaces were coated with grape juice and then exposed to 10-3 bacteria dilution for 24 hours. The hydraxapatite pieces were then rinsed in saline. The saline/bacteria mixture was plated and grown for 2 hours, after which the colonies were counted, recorded and analyzed. Preliminary data suggests that exposure of purple grape juice to dental surfaces inhibits the adherence of bacteria. This link will open a whole new unexplored field concerning grape juice and dentistry. New exploration in this field will aid the human plight for healthier, lovelier teeth.

Diet as a Cause for Low Birth Weight in Asian Indian Babies

In the United States, low birth weight affects approximately 1 in every 13 babies and is a factor in 65 percent of infant deaths. Birth weight is influenced greatly by the mother’s body composition at pregnancy, which is determined by her fetal growth and diet from birth to pregnancy. Therefore, mothers in deprived socioeconomic conditions tend to have low birth weight babies. Half of all low birth weight babies worldwide are born in India, where 27 percent of infants weigh less than 2,500 grams at birth. The low birth weight trend in Indian mothers has been found to continue even after they immigrate to the United States, despite their attainment of high socioeconomic conditions. This research aimed to explain this epidemiological paradox through the analysis of diet in Asian Indian mothers. It was hypothesized that a vegetarian diet in Indian mothers causes low birth weight babies. 30 Indian mothers were surveyed to gather data. A t-test showed that vegetarian mothers did not give birth to significantly lower birth weight babies than meat-consuming mothers. A Chi-Square showed that there was not a significantly higher incidence of low birth weight babies in vegetarian mothers. Future research should include a larger sample size and stricter regulation of diet in mothers.

PHYSICS

The Effect of Gravity and Friction on the Speed of a Weighted Skateboard

The purpose of this research was to determine how the speed of a skateboard is affected by weight, frictional surface and initial force. A ramp was constructed to control horizontal thrust of the skateboard and bricks were strapped to the board to vary the weight. Several surfaces were used to vary friction. Time trials were conducted across a constant length of rolling surface while changing the variables. The results showed that a skateboard’s speed is impacted by all three variables. T-tests showed extremely significant statistical differences for the time trials. Horizontal force had the greatest impact on the results. It was concluded that to achieve maximum skateboard velocity, a strong initial force must

The Effect of Aqueous Sodium Chloride on Electrical Anti-bubble Inhibition

Sodium Chloride (NaCl) is a common electrolyte long known to alter conductivity and surface tension in fluids. Because anti-bubble formation requires a low surface tension and a low electrical potential between the two fluids, it was hypothesized that if aqueous sodium chloride is added to a system where anti-bubbles were being electrically regulated, then the number of anti-bubbles formed would approach zero. This will be tested by performing a series of trials where aqueous sodium chloride will be incorporated into a medium used to create anti-bubbles. The medium will be used in one minute trials during which a switch will be either open or closed, dictating whether or not a current flows through the system, attempting to inhibit anti-bubble formation electrically. Preliminary results have been inconclusive, but tend to show an inhibitory effect.

Effects of Anthrophonic Noise on Natural Habitats

The purpose of this project was to see how unnatural human noise could affect a natural habitat and its soundscape. Past research has shown that each species of animal have their own level of frequency to communicate so that they won’t interfere with another species. Because animals need to communicate for several different reasons, such as mating, and warning signals, this specialized frequency is important for a species’ survival. However, when an outside unnatural noise is introduced, communication is broken up and its frequency becomes distorted. To simulate this occurrence, an area distant from human noise with a wildlife population was found. The soundscape of the natural habitat was recorded to see what levels of frequency are used for communication. Depending on that level of frequency, a recording of an unnatural noise was played back to the habitat while still recoding the soundscape. By comparing the recording before and after the noise playback, the disruption of animal communication could be seen. The preliminary data suggests that the introduction of an unnatural noise interferes with animal communication significantly. This interference of communication in nature indicates that the use of noise can have many practical applications when wanting to either preserve natural habitats or get rid of a natural pest.

Force Effects on Various Metals

This project aimed to test the strengths of various metals in a standard, controlled collision. The project evolved from a “slingshot” design to using a curved ramp. To test the different metals we attached them to a Pasco collision cart and ran them down the ramp into a Pasco force meter and recorded our results using a laptop computer. We also experimented with the use of an accelerometer to test other factors, but the overall goal was always to establish an across the board set of measurements for how a set of commonly used metals behave during a direct collision. The first phase was spent designing the whole experiment, which included how the ramp would be fabricated and how the metals would be attached to the cart (which was not fabricated). The second phase was spent actually building the ramp out of wooden base, with the actual ramp portion being made from Plexiglas. The third phase was spent running the tests on the computer using Data Studio. During this phase the actual metals were obtained as well, which include brass, tin, stainless steel, titanium, copper, and nickel. At the end of this final phase results were compiled and a summary of our results was created.

How Dimple Design Affects Golf Ball Flight

The purpose of this research was to show the effects of dimple design on a golf ball. Data was collected from indoor and outdoor driving ranges and spin rate and distance was measured. Data showed that the smooth ball and the ball with protruding dimples decreased the distance at the outdoor range because of air resistance. It was found that dimple design does not have a statistically significant effect on the distance a ball travels based on the results of an unpaired t-test. However, the unpaired t-test also showed that the presence or absence of dimples does have a statistically significant effect on the distance the ball travels.

Theoretical Modeling of an Inertial Electrostatic Confinement Fusion Apparatus

The far-off goal of fusion research and development is the design of a cheap, renewable and environmentally sound energy source. Advancement has been made in one type of fusion, Inertial Electrostatic Confinement (IEC). A grounded spherical vacuum chamber surrounds a concentric gridded cathode. Gas in the chamber undergoes ionizing gas discharge when the anode acquires electric potential and the resulting two-charge species of ions and electrons move radially towards the center of the device, where plasma densities reach levels high enough to produce steady-state fusion. A significant way ions are wasted is through collisions with the cathode grid while circulating through the reactor. Many IEC designs have sought to correct this problem by running the reactor with different grid radii and with different grid design patterns to increase this effective ‘grid transparency’. There should be an optimal grid radius value because a larger grid results in a diffuse plasma density yet a higher transparency while a smaller grid has a higher concentrated plasma density with a lower transparency. This study develops a mathematical model for an IEC device which uses the grid radius value as an argument for both grid transparency and ion trajectory. In addition, up till now mathematical models have counted on a single ion mass. This study takes a look at variations in both ion mass and charge to determine effects on the operation of the device.

The change in R-Value due to sphagnums moss microstructure.

The subject of the experiment is to examine the difference in the thermal resistance (R-Value) between water-saturated sphagnum moss and fiberglass. It is hypothesized that the microstructure of sphagnum moss will change the R-Value of insulation and will, expectantly, provide better insulation when saturated with water. The hypothesis will be tested with two Styrofoam containers, one with a fiberglass-containing lid and the other with a sphagnum-containing lid. The heat/temperature loss from inside the systems will be measured. At the current time, results are inconclusive, but, early research suggests that the microstructure of sphagnum moss has an effect on the R-Value of the insulation. It is possible that the microstructure of sphagnum moss will provide a model for the development of a cheaper and more reliable insulation.

Impact of Carbon Nanotubes on the Conductivity of a Non-Conducting Polymer Solution.

This past summer I conducted NASA sponsored research at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR). Historically, conductive polymers and their components are of great research interest due to their use in a wide range of applications such as batteries, sensors, electronics, electromechanical actuators, and drug delivery. There are two common types of conductive polymers: polymers that are inherently conductive and polymers that are enhanced with conductive fillers, substances that improve the conductivity of a solution. This work involved CNT as conductive fillers and measuring the conductivity of polyurethane, a totally non-conducting polymer, with different concentrations of CNT. To realize maximum possible conductivity with a given voltage, the resistance of the substance must be as low as possible. The conductivity of different concentrations of graphite in polyurethane was also studied so the results can be compared with CNT in polyurethane. Graphite was chosen since it is known to be a highly conductive substance. Several films with different CNT concentrations were prepared. The concentrations were 2.5%, 1.25% and .0085% by weight of CNT in polyurethane. The graphite-polyurethane concentrations used were 49%, 43 %, 23%, 2.5%, 1.25% and .0085%. After preparing the solutions, a thick film of each solution was prepared on a glass slide. The films with 0.0085% solution of CNT and polyurethane produced a current on the order of µA and the films with 2.5% CNT produced a current on the order of mA. With a 0.0085% and a 2.5% solution of graphite and polyurethane, the resistance remained unaltered at infinity. The resistance dropped from infinity for a polyurethane solution to 1000 ohms when just 0.0085% of the total solution was CNT. When carbon nanotubes comprised just 0.0085% of the total weight of the solution, the conductivity was equal to the conductivity of the solution where graphite was 23% of the total weight of the solution. The 2.5% CNT yielded conductivity similar to that of 40% of graphite. A possible reason for this dramatic difference in electrical conductivity is due to the fact that carbon nanotubes are hollow and consequently have an extremely low mass-density. This low mass-density translates into a network with good connectivity, allowing for conductivities that can be attained by graphite, only when the concentration of graphite is much heavier. Another part of the research used the Atomic Force Microscope to study the topography and phase images of various samples. The pictures confirmed the presence of an end-to-end network of CNT in a 0.0085% solution. I have submitted a paper, coauthored by my advisor at UALR to the Journal of Applied Polymer Science, which has been accepted for publication. In addition, UALR is using my research as the basis for a $500,000 NSF grant proposal.

The Effect of Cell Phone Radiation on Blood Pressure

Over the past few years, some studies have shown that cell phones can be dangerous. Studies have also proven that cell phones weaken the blood-brain barrier along with the dopamine opiate system. Children due to thinner skulls are more prone to the dangers of cell phone. This study examined the correlation of blood pressure in relation to the amount of time spent on a cell phone. The experiment consisted of 25 volunteers who were asked to come in separately, while each volunteer was observed while him/her were on the cell phone. Volunteers were exposed to cell phone radiation for 15 and 30 minutes. Blood pressure was measured at each interval. The mean of all the volunteers was calculated to be 113.24/74 as the resting blood pressure. At 15 minutes, the average was calculated to be 114.64/76.04, while the final blood pressure average was calculated to be 116.88/77.08 at the conclusion of 30 minutes. This research was proven significant with the use of a T test at 95% confidence level.

The Physics of Pirouette and Fouette Turns

The purpose of this research was to apply specific forces and techniques to the pirouette and fouetté in order to obtain a plan for a well-executed turn. Two separate turn variations en dehors, a double pirouette and a double fouetté, were observed and analyzed. In a single event, each turn was executed 20 times and measurements were taken for each trial. Of the 20 pirouettes and fouettés executed, one set of measurements was determined to successfully plan the perfect turning position for each dancer. It was concluded that by analyzing the physics of pirouette and fouetté turns and applying specific techniques to improve the resulting turns, a plan for a perfect turn for a dancer can be obtained.

Magnetically Induced Viscosity Change and the Lubricating Ability of Ferrofluid.

A delicate balance has to be maintained for motor oil to be as efficient as possible. During warm weather, standard motor oil becomes less viscous, allowing gears to grind on one another causing wear, while in cold weather, it tends to be more viscous, causing even more damage. Ferro fluid is a stable colloidal suspension of sub-domain magnetic particles in a liquid carrier, about 100 angstroms in size. When an external magnetic field is applied, the particles orient themselves to the magnetic field lines of the source. The most famous effect of magnetic fields on the properties of Ferro fluids is the change in the Ferro fluid’s viscosity. It was hypothesized that Ferro fluid, while magnetically enhanced, would be more viscous. To test the hypothesis, a piston was dropped within magnetically enhanced Ferro fluid and non-magnetically enhanced Ferro fluid. Although it was hypothesized that the Ferro fluid, while enhanced by a magnetic field, would be more viscous, that was not the case. The Ferro fluid untouched by the magnetic field turned out to be more viscous, thus rejecting the hypothesis.

The Fallacy of the Perfect Circle Loop

The subject of our experiment was to explain why perfect circle loops are not implemented on roller coasters by testing and comparing the results of the force exerted on a human body traveling through a clothoid, or tear-drop shaped loop and a perfect circle loop on a model roller coaster. We have built a model roller coaster and used a wireless accelerometer and video capture to determine the force exerted on the human body. The data was consistent and proved that the force on the humnan body riding through a perfect circle loop will cause damage and possbily, death, in some cases.

A Computer Model of Self-Phase Modulation (SPM) as Applied to Optical Waveguides

Computer simulations of self-phase modulation (SPM) confirmed experimental data as well as experimental asymmetries and anomalies for various input pulse forms. Temporal pulses were transformed into the frequency domain using romberg integration and inputing relevant transformation parameters, i.e. phase change information. Numerical results were calculated to be theoretically accurate to better than 99.9%, thus negligible when compared to current experimental SPM data that states accuracies of approximately 7%. Theoretical and experimental data outputs were graphed for comparison. Asymmetries were accounted for by modifying the input pulse in the simulation. Further work is in progress to apply inverse Fourier transforms to infer an input pulse from a waveguide’s output. In conclusion a simple and accurate model for SPM output spectrum was developed for future use in nonlinear transmissions e.g. soliton transmission experiments.

An Exploration of Tennis Ball Elasticity

This project at its present is an investigation into the possibility of a correlation between temperature and the elasticity of tennis balls. There is a possibility of many different types of relationships between elasticity and temperature and currently, the group is open to many different possibilities, even the possibility that no correlation exists. Elasticity was determined by the standards that have been set down by the International Tennis Confederation where a tennis ball is dropped from the height of 100 inches and the resulting height of the bounce is the determinant of elasticity. For a ball to be deemed acceptable, the ball must bounce back 53 to 58 inches. The experimental method is as follows. Tennis balls are heated (oven) or cooled (refrigerator) to various temperatures by the process of “soaking.” Once they are soaked, the tennis balls are bounced against a deflection plate with the use of a tennis ball machine. After specific interval, the elasticity is measured. Using ANOVA statistical analysis, the change in elasticity will be measured at various temperature. There is a great deal of potential for this project. Tennis clinics and tennis academies can choose which tennis brand is most suited for the specific environment.

Characterizing the Response Time of a Thermo-optic Mirror

This project makes quantitative measurements of the rate and range of deformation of a thermo-optic mirror device. We have extended the work of a project done last year that demonstrated the practicality of a mirror that could be flexed through the use of electricity. We rebuilt this device using a smaller (two inch) Si wafer that becomes deformed when eight 220 ohm resistors, circularly arranged, elongate due to resistive heating. Adding on to last year’s project, we constructed a system that could measure the rate and range of deformation of the Si wafer. Stated briefly, a partially reflective optical flat was placed on the Si wafer. Light from a 660 nm laser was directed through the flat onto the silicon device. The reflected light was directed onto a photo diode. As the wafer deformed, the back reflected waves from the optical flat and the silicon wafer interfered resulting in a modulated signal. A digitization of the photo diode voltage signal was recorded with a computer. After analyzing the data we found that the rate of deformation was strictly proportional to the electrical drive power. The deformation rate was found to be 0.11 microns per sec per watt of drive power.

Wood vs. Composite Field Hockey Sticks

The subject of my experimentation is the effectiveness of different types of field hockey sticks in relation to temperature. I created a device for testing the sticks, swiming them at a constant rate towards a ball set in a fixed spot. The ball was hit into a board of wood attached to an accelerometer. Many players prefer different sticks, especially when the weather is changing. The purpose of this project was to determine if their reasons for doing so are valid.

The Effectiveness of a trebuchet versus a Dumptruck for Transportation of Construction Rubble

The purpose of this research was to determine if a modern day trebuchet would be more efficient and cost effective than a dump truck in the transportation of construction debris. A series of tests were conducted to find the speed and distance traveled by projectiles launched from a scaled down trebuchet. The projectile’s distance and speeds were multiplied using a ratio to determine the data a full size trebuchet would produce and compared with the average time needed for a dump truck to travel the same distance (one mile). T-tests showed a significant difference in the times of transportation between the load bearing speed of the dump truck and trebuchet. It was found that the trebuchet was not more effective that the dump truck so the null hypothesis was accepted.

Heat Generated During Rappel

When descending on a rope to lower altitudes, rappellers use a descent control device called a rappel rack, which uses friction to control its speed. The rappelling community is concerned that too much friction will create so much heat that the rope melts, become lubricated, and control is lost on the descent. This study set out to evaluate the amount of heat produced in response to an increase in speed. It was hypothesized that the heat would increase as the speed increase. A weight was dropped from a specific height at three difference speeds using a rappel rack to control the speed of each drop. After each trial, the rack’s temperature was measured by looking at heat dissipation in water. Results found that there was a decrease of heat (calories) as the speed increased, however these numbers were not significant, as indicated by a T test. The hypothesis was not supported, possibly due to the design. For further experimentation, temperature should be measured directly from the rack and preferable only the first two bars. Also, more trials are needed to for more accurate readings.

An Investigation into Magnetic Repulsion

The purpose of my project was to explore the properties of magnetic repulsion, and determine whether those properties could be harnessed to perform useful work. I began by designing and conducting a series of three experiments that established the basic properties of magnetic repulsion. My experiments proved conclusively that: (1) A pair of magnets is strong enough to lift one magnet above another, even when the upper magnet is burdened by an added cargo. (2) A pair of magnets is able to lift an added cargo that is 17 times greater than the mass of a single magnet. (3) When additional pairs of magnets are combined together to lift a shared cargo, the mass of the cargo they can bear increases in a linear fashion. (4) The repulsive forces and lifting capability of combined magnet pairs are directly additive (e.g., two magnet pairs lift twice as much cargo as a single pair). (5) A minimum separation is required between the magnet pairs to avoid interference between their magnetic fields, and unwanted diminishment of their lifting capability. (6) A spacing of 1 cm between magnet pairs provides the greatest lifting capability in the smallest surface area. After conducting my experiments, I used my findings to demonstrate that magnetic repulsion can be harnessed to perform useful work. First, I calculated that 672 magnet pairs would be sufficient to lift a 120 lb. girl, and that these magnet pairs would require a lifting platform no larger than a surfboard. Second, I built a working model of a Mag-Lev train to show how magnetic repulsion is being harnessed today to meet real-world transportation needs in Germany and China.

Experiments on Simple Harmonic Motion and Studies of Resonance

Manufacturers spend a large portion of their profit on the energy required to make their products. These manufacturers focus on profit and overlook the simple notion of becoming more energy efficient. Accordingly, the purpose of my research project is to explore the idea of energy efficiency from a different “wavelength” and tackle it from a physics standpoint regarding resonance. Resonance occurs when an object is vibrated via an external stimulus, and the frequency of the stimulus is similar to the natural frequency of the object. In this project, a motor controls the amount of external input into the system and then the slinky oscillates with a simple harmonic motion. Thus, with only a small amount of input, at a frequency coinciding with the natural frequency of the slinky, a large amount of energy could potentially be produced. Useful applications of resonance in energy efficiency include lasers, significant in its growing application within medicine and detecting objects, important in its function within law enforcement.

rotating liquid parabolic mirrors utilizing nontoxic metal components

Currently, rotating liquid parabolic mirrors utilize toxic metal components such as mercury. The purpose of this experiment was to design a rotating liquid parabolic mirror that can utilize nontoxic metal components. A cylindrical container filled with water was rotated on a turn table. Next, the focal length of the rotating liquid parabolic mirror was found using a photosensor and compared to the same system coated with nontoxic aluminum dust. Preliminary results show that further results will be gathered but gives the impression that the experiment will be successful.

The Popability of Microwave Popcorn Based on Variations in Water Content

The purpose of this research was to demonstrate that popcorn exposed to different conditions of dryness, moisture and freezing will pop at different rates. Fifty kernels were observed for appearance and texture and then placed in a microwave for 155 seconds. The initial popping time and speed of the popping sound were recorded. Observations of appearance, odor and number of popped kernels were recorded. Results showed that kernels exposed indoors popped most and had the second fastest pop time. Frozen kernels had the second highest number popped and the least time to pop. Kernels exposed outdoors had the third highest number to pop but had the third longest time to pop. Kernels exposed to water popped the least and the slowest. It was found that exposure to specific conditions does affect the popping time and number of kernels

Amplitudes Dependence on Sounds Position in an Open-ended Tube

This experiment investigated amplitude’s dependence on sound’s position in an open-ended tube of air. By measuring the amplitude of resonant sound waves (of various frequencies) at different lengths from the end of the tube farthest from the sound’s source, I established two conclusions: that sound’s amplitude decreased sharply within the final 5 cm of the 1.52 m tube and varied negligibly before propagating through the tube’s final 10 cm - with respect to position - and that approximately 90% of the sound that reached the tube’s far end was reflected. Surprisingly, the first of my two results contradicted directly with the notions in classical physics that the amplitude of a resonant sound wave is greatest at an air tube’s open end, and that the amplitude of a resonant sound wave varies sinusoidally with respect to the wave’s position.

Gravitational Acceleration Demonstration

The purpose of this project was to create a device that would accurately measure the acceleration of a falling object caused by gravity. When the object is dropped through a long tube, the time it takes to reach each optical sensor is recorded using a timer. Because the time it takes to fall from point to point is known and the distance the object falls is known, the acceleration can be calculated by using the formula v=Äd/Ät to find the average velocity between two optical sensors and using the formula a=Äv/Ät to find the acceleration due to gravity between two sets of optical sensors or by graphing the change of distance vs. the change in time and linearizing the data to find the acceleration caused by gravity.

ZOOLOGY

Disruptions in the Circadian Rhythms of Drosophila melanogaster and the Effect on Lifespan

The purpose of this research was to determine if disruptions in the circadian rhythms of fruit flies lengthen or shorten the life spans of the flies. Thirty-eight fruit flies were used as control or experimental flies and were lulled in order to disrupt their circadian rhythms. One-sample t-tests results (p less than 0.0001) showed that there was an extremely statistically significant difference between the average life spans of non-lulled and lulled flies, with lulled flies having shorter life spans. It was concluded that disruptions to the circadian rhythms of fruit flies shorten the life spans of the flies.

Determining the difference between internal and external temperatures of snakes

The determination of internal body temperatures in snakes via cloacal insertion of temperature probes can cause stress to the animal, may pose a risk to the researcher in the case of venomous species, and may alter the temperature itself. A less-invasive method of internal temperature determination was explored using an infrared non-contact thermometer (INC thermometer). In the first phase of the research, accurately painted, water-filled, vinyl models of Python regius were fitted with internal temperature probes and their temperatures were recorded while the model absorbed heat from an incandescent lamp. During this time, surface temperatures were also recorded with an INC thermometer. In the second phase, a living Python regius had its internal temperature cloacally monitored while its surface temperature was determined with the INC thermometer while absorbing heat from an incandescent lamp. Internal and external temperature comparisons for both models and the living specimen revealed that although external temperature was slightly higher, the difference was not significant (p < .05). The results suggest that surface temperatures taken non-invasively may be of sufficient accuracy to warrant the utilization of these techniques in determinations of reptilian body temperatures.

Variations in Bird Landing Gaits

The purpose of this research was to determine whether finches prefer hovering slightly before landing or flying straight in to a feeder. Birds were filmed landing onto a feeder. Data showed that when landing from below the feeder, finches flew straight in. When landing from above or directly at the feeder, the finches chose either flying pattern. It was found that finches choose either landing pattern with no frequency except when landing from below. In this case, they prefer to fly straight in.

A Study of Guppie Growth when Fed Different Rotifer Cultures

I found that non-sterilized rotifers exhibit an increased rate of reproduction as well as an increased life span, thus increasing productivity as a fish feed. It was then hypothesized that guppies fed rotifers cultured with and without bacteria would not exhibit any adverse effects nor a significant difference in size. Four groups of three guppies were fed rotifers cultured with B. subtilis (to represent a non-pathogenic bacteria), rotifers cultured with Serratia Marcescens (to represent a potentially pathogenic bacteria), rotifers treated with Gentatmicin Sulphate (to eliminate bacteria from the culture), and conventional fish food, respectively. Performing a one-way ANOVA, the masses of the fish were statistically found not to be significantly different thus proving that non-sterilized rotifers are a safe alternative fish feed.

The effects of creatine nonehydrate on cockroaches work and power.

This experiment was chosen to see if creatine monohydrate really does have the effect on muscle synthesis without bad side effects. It was hypothesized that if the cockroaches were fed creatine monohydrate they will get stronger. To test this hypothesis the cockroaches were harness with copper wire looped to holes punctured in its pronotum. Then the experimental was fed 1 tablespoon of creatine in a mashed banana while the control was just fed the banana. Then a pulley was attached to a table as well as two rulers fastened to the table to make borders. A piece of cardboard was placed on top of the rulers to create darkness. The cockroach was attached to a weight that ran across the pulley. It was held in a holding pen and a light was shined directly on it. The starting gate was opened and it ran to the dark. The time it took it and the distance it went was recorded. Then it is repeated with higher weights till the cockroach can’t go anymore. The data is analyzed to see if the cockroach has gained strength. Preliminary research claims that there is a strength change in the cockroaches.

Effect of N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (Deet) on Sarcoaphagid Fly Development.

Maggots, at times are used in forensic science to determine the time of death of a person. Many people use over the counter substances that may alter the development and the rate of colonization of insects, making it more difficult to determine the time of death. One of these substances is N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (Deet) a common insect repellent. It was hypothesized that Deet could reduce the rate of colonization of maggots on decaying meat. Raw beef liver was coated with different concentrations of Deet and exposed to maggots, outdoors. The rate of colonization of different samples was recorded and compared. The results showed that the higher the concentration of Deet was, the lower the rate of colonization.

Using Audio Recording to Measure Biodiversity

Dr. Bernie Krause has created a theory entitled “The Niche Hypothesis” which states that all vocalizing organisms communicate at a specific frequency level (called an eco-niche). A need to clearly communicate between animals of the same species for food, reproduction, etc. has allowed animals to adapt and evolve to vocalize without interference in their respective eco-niche. This study focuses on using audio recording and the Niche Hypothesis to measure biodiversity. A sampling of various bird species with a known biodiversity was recorded over a period of time, using a microphone, Hi-MD recorder, and headphones. The recorded community of sounds was then transferred to a sound analysis program, which graphed the frequencies of the birds’ vocalizations. This is called a spectrogram. The known data of the biodiversity of the bird species was then compared to the spectrogram’s data in specie diversity and population. It is predicted that the various levels of frequencies and their decibels will accurately match the previous data of the biodiversity of the bird species. This will give support to the feasibility of using audio recording as a useful tool to measure biodiversity

The Effect of Hydrogen Peroxide on Wild Type and Catn-1 Populations of Drosophila melanogaster

The subject of our experiment is the effect of hydrogen peroxide on Wild Type and Catn-1 populations of Drosophila melanogaster. If two catalase positive alleles are more effective at denaturing hydrogen peroxide than just one, and Wild Type and Catn-1 populations are exposed to hydrogen peroxide, then the Catn-1 will have a decreased life span, decreased growth rate, and activity. Catn-1 flies express only one positive allele for catalase. The Wild Type expresses two positive alleles for catalase. Different dilutions of hydrogen peroxide were added to both populations. Six males and six females were separated into twelve vials with different dilutions of hydrogen peroxide, ranging from 0% to .75%, added into the growth medium. Adult flies were transferred into a new vial every week to make room for the new generations. Two to three generations of each dilution and species were run. F1 generation of Catn-1 population at .09375% hydrogen peroxide averaged 2 mm compared to the F1 generation Catn-1 control population averaged 4 mm. Activity of all Catn-1 population exposed to H2O2 had an average rating of 3 compared to the Control populations which had an average rating of 5.The results are consistent with those of previous experiments illustrating that hydrogen peroxide is detrimental to the cells of an organism. The results also suggest that one positive allele for catalase is less sufficient than two alleles. The appropriate concentration of hydrogen peroxide applicable to both the Wild Type and Catn-1 populations that is not lethal but still can express a detrimental phenotype was ascertained.

Use of Common Household Substances as repellents for Black Carpenter Ants(Camponotus pennsylvanicus)

The purpose of this research was to determine which natural repellent worked best against black carpenter ants (Camponotus pennsylvanicus). The experiment was conducted three times with ten ants placed on one side of a container and the bait placed on the other side (n=30). Nine different repellents were tested by placing them in the center of the container to determine how many ants would cross the repellent to get to the bait. Results showed that only two repellents were highly effective while the other seven varied from mildly effective to ineffective. It was found that boric acid powder and bone meal were most effective in deterring the ants.