2011 Research Symposium

NORTH CAROLINA SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS’
26th Annual Research Symposium
MAY 16, 2011

1:30-4:15 p.m.
Ademide Adelekun
Analysis of acceptability and knowledge of HPV & cervical cancer among participants of “My Body My
Test” study
(Mentors and Teachers: Jennifer Smith - UNC Chapel Hill; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: There is some disagreement among the scientific world in regards to the significance of HPV
knowledge and acceptability on attitudes toward sexual health. I will analyze results from a subset of NC
women who are at high risk of HPV contraction that participated in HPV self-test with an embedded
survey to see if the data supports my hypothesis that HPV knowledge and vaccine acceptability are both
positively correlated to positive attitudes toward sexual health. Based on the data analysis conducted,
the null hypothesis that women who return the kit will have the same knowledge score was rejected
and an alternative hypothesis can be supported. There was a significant statistical difference in these
values, as supported by the Z score of -3.38. The null hypothesis that women who return the kill will
have the same acceptability as those who do not was accepted. No significant statistical difference
between the acceptability score was found when comparing women who did and did not return their
kit. The calculated Z score was .096 and for a standard confidence interval of 95%, a score with a
magnitude greater than 1.96 was needed.
Avi Aggarwal
Effect of thiol containing amino acids on the environmental fate of silver nanoparticles
(Mentors and Teachers: Heileen Hsu-Kim - Duke Univ.; Myra Halpin - NCSSM)
Abstract: Silver nanoparticles are frequently used in consumer goods because of their antimicrobial
properties, but very little is known about their environmental implications. When released into aquatic
systems, these particles can remain stable, aggregate and precipitate, or dissolve. Their fate is strongly
influenced by organic ligands present in natural waters that may adsorb to particle surfaces and modify
their reactivity. The thiol (S-H) group is known to have strong affinity for type B metals such as silver and
can potentially attach on silver nanoparticle surfaces. In this project, we studied the effects of thiol
containing ligands on silver nanoparticles. We assessed the function of the thiol-containing ligand in the
dissolution and aggregation of citrate-coated silver nanoparticles using cysteine, an amino acid
containing the thiol group, and serine, a structural analog of cysteine with a hydroxyl group instead of
the thiol group. Attachment efficiencies of solutions with adjusted salinity containing cysteine, serine, or
no ligands were calculated using time-resolved dynamic light scattering (DLS). Dissolved silver
concentrations were measured through filtration and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission
spectroscopy (ICP-AES). Our results show that thiols increased both aggregation and dissolution rates of
the particles in cysteine solutions relative to serine and no ligand containing solutions. This confirms that
the thiol group is critical in the mechanism for cysteine simultaneously sorbing to the nanoparticles and
promoting their dissolution.
Avi Aggarwal, Amy Xie
SpaceSleeper: An effective sleep solution for space and beyond
(Mentors and Teachers: Myra Halpin - NCSSM)
Abstract: Astronauts are subject to several conditions that reduce quality of sleep in space. This sleep
deprivation can be detrimental to health and missions. To address this issue, we designed a sleeping pod
to be implemented in the International Space Station. The features of this pod include comfort, privacy,
versatility, collapsibility, noiselessness, melatonin-inducing lighting, air flow, room to stow personal
items, and more. There are several terrestrial applications for this pod as well, including airplanes, ships,
submarines, hospitals, airports, and trucks.
Krunal Amin, Aakash Gandhi, Gayatri Rathod
Discovery of competitive ligand interactions on the LasR signal for quorum sensing in Pseudomonas
aeruginosa
(Mentors and Teachers: Gary Kapral - Duke Univ.; Bob Gotwals, Amy Sheck - NCSSM)
Abstract: The opportunistic human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa coordinates the expression of
virulence factors using the process of quorum sensing, a signaling cascade triggered by the activation of
the protein LasR signal receptor by high densities of a small-molecule autoinducer. Blocking the quorum
sensing network in P. aeruginosa has known potential as a highly effective mechanism for attenuating
virulence factors to treatment without increasing the likelihood of antibiotic resistance. The signal
receptor has been postulated to be the ideal target for quorum sensing inhibition (QSI), through the
mechanism of competitive antagonism by the introduction of small-molecule ligands. Previous studies
have demonstrated that, in virtual docking screens, the compounds tamoxifen, sertraline, pimethixene,
terfenadine, fendiline, and calmidazolium act as QSI compounds in the paradigmatic LuxIR quorum
sensing-system of Vibrio fischeri. Here, we apply several computational methods to analyze the
potential of these known QSI compounds as competitive antagonists to the complex of LasR and its
autoinducer ligand. Preliminary procedures revealed five cavities in the LasR crystal structure in which
ligands could potentially bind. In a global docking study of the cavities in LasR, calmidazolium,
terfenadine, and tamoxifen were found to be energetically favorable over the autoinducer, thereby
demonstrating their potential as competitive antagonists. The objective of future studies would focus
on the use of more complex computation methods to determine the effect (inhibitory or otherwise) that
calmidazolium, terfenadine, and tamoxifen has on the protein structure of LasR after binding to a given
active site.
Elizabeth Ball
Disney and DreamWorks: What Messages Are They Sending? An Analysis of Gender Roles in Disney
and Dreamworks Movies
(Mentors and Teachers: Karen Glumm - NCSSM)
Abstract: The things that people watch, read, and listen to in their daily lives affect them. Because of
this, it is important to understand the messages that these media are sending. Children are even more
impressionable than the general population, so it is even more important to understand the messages in
children’s movies. One important thing to understand is how these movies portray gender roles. Which
gender is more dominant? More submissive? This is what I set out to discover with my research project.
Specifically, I looked at how movies with similar plots, released between 1998 and 2006 by two
commonly known rivals, Walt Disney Productions and DreamWorks Animations, differ in regard to the
portrayal of gender roles.
Michael Bai, Isaac Loh
Investigation of a Randomly Colored Chain
(Mentors and Teachers: Dan Teague - NCSSM)
Abstract: This is an investigation of a simple (no loops or multiple edges), connected graph of n vertices.
We play a game where each vertex has its own color (designated by capital letters) which may be
viewed in a social context as an individual’s particular viewpoint. On each “turn” of the game, a vertex is
selected at random (with probability 1/n) and changes its color (viewpoint) randomly to the color of one
of its neighbors, vertices directly adjacent to that vertex. We attempt to predict the probability of
vertices winning in the graph given their location, color, and connectedness- and the attributes of other
points in the graph.
Kaitlyn Bacon
Evidence the Risk of Anencephaly is Influenced by Genetic Variation of NOS,MYT1L, and INADL Genes
(Mentors and Teachers: Allison Ashley-Koch - Duke Center for Human Genetics; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Anencephaly is a complexly inherited birth defect that occurs when the neural tube fails to
close properly at the cranially end. It has been shown the defect is influenced by both genetics and
environmental risk factors. In particular, neural tube closure depends heavily on the folate-methionine
pathway. Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) has been shown to regulate the methionine synthase activity
required for neural tube closure in this pathway, making the NOS gene family candidate genes.
Additionally, anencephaly may be dependent on proper tight junction and epithelial migration
associated with the INADL gene. The association of MY1TL and anencephaly was also explored due to its
high activity in the fetal brain and spinal cord, which result from neural tube closure. The significance of
INADL and MYT1L was evaluated in data from 126 families using both a pedigree disequilibrium test and
a genotype-pedigree disequilibrium test. A case control regression analysis was used for NOS examining
data from 205 case mothers and 233 control mothers. Each INADL and MYT1L SNP was significant for
anencephaly, while only 5 NOS SNPs were significant for anencephaly. The statistical analysis completed
suggests an association between INADL, MYT1L, NOS genes and anencephaly. A true association
between MYT1L and anencephaly is further supported by a deviation in Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium
observed for a specific MYT1L SNPs. Further research is needed to see if these genes are associated with
neural tube defects as a whole or just specifically anencephaly.
Karsyn Bailey
The Effect of a High-fat Diet on Posttraumatic Arthritis after Intraarticular Fracture
(Mentors and Teachers: Steven Olson - DUMC ; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Obesity is a major risk factor in the development of osteoarthritis. Obesity can cause an
inability to maintain peak bone mass and consequently causes an accelerated onset and a greater
prevalence of osteoarthritis. In this study, we examined bone morphology changes after intraarticular
fracture in C57BL/6J mice fed a high-fat diet, and subsequently the effect of a high-fat diet on the
development of posttraumatic arthritis. The research was conducted from August 2010 to February
2011 at Duke University Medical Center.
Male C57BL/6J mice were fed either a 10% kcal fat diet or a 60% kcal fat diet. Bone morphology changes
in the distal femoral condyles, proximal tibial plateau, and the tibial metaphysis were measured.
Specifically, cancellous bone fraction, trabecular number, trabecular spacing, trabecular thickness, and
bone density was measured in the femoral condyles. Bone volume and bone density was measured in
the tibial plateau and the metaphysis. Multifactorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized to
examine statistical differences between experimental and control limbs for all listed parameters.
A high-fat diet induced a greater decrease in cancellous bone fraction of the femoral condyles and a
greater decrease in bone density in all regions after fracture, both of which are indicators of
posttraumatic arthritis.
These results indicate that a high-fat diet increases the risk of posttraumatic arthritis after intraarticular
fracture of the tibial plateau. Furthermore, posttraumatic arthritis occurs at a faster rate under a high-
fat diet when compared with a low fat diet.
Michael Bai, Radhika Ghodasarah, Rani Patel
Linkage between cold-exposure and BAT expression by induction of the Ucp1 gene
(Mentors and Teachers: Robert Gotwals - NCSSM )
Abstract: Humans live in a thermo-neutral environment which is typically not a cold setting. Our
research shows that there is a linkage between cold-exposure and BAT expression; BAT plays a
significant role in thermogenesis. This exposure to cold and resulting BAT expression has been linked to
weight loss. Enhanced induction of the Ucp1 gene – a trademark gene on chromosome 8 found strictly
in brown fat– has been shown to be correlated to the ability to lose weight in obesity-prone inbred
mouse strains. Our approach focuses on finding a link between the genes that have been semi-
associated with UCP1. Using the R program, we ran eQTL data in order to produce graphical data on the
relationship between specific genes and phenotypes with UCP1.
Michelle Barton
Creating a New Association Between Aggression and Relaxation in Narcissistic Individuals With
Aggressive Tendencies
(Mentors and Teachers: Stephen Horvath, Mark Leary - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: When a narcissist’s self-esteem is threatened he often responds with an impulse to aggress
against the source of the threat. Although research suggests that narcissists employ aggression to
protect their grandiose self-view from self-esteem threats, aggressive actions have negative effects (for
the aggressor as well as for the aggressor’s target), and in some situations the long-term costs of
narcissistic aggression likely exceed its short term gain. The goal in the present study is to enable
narcissists to better control these impulses through the use of a simple association training to create an
association between aggression and relaxation. Similar trainings have been successfully used in other
contexts, e.g., to increase self-esteem or helpful behavior. However, it has never been used to change
behavior that is characteristic for a particular personality type like narcissism.
Dominique Beaudry
An fMRI study of Cognition and Motivation in Adolescents
(Mentors and Teachers: Christine Rivera, Timothy Strauman - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: Humans possess the capacity to stabilize and regulate psychological states, create and pursue
goals, and modify behavior in accordance to both personal standards and social challenges that arise.
The process that allows us to do is said to be called self-regulation, a term that denotes the processes
through which people experience goal pursuit through their decision and behaviors. Self-regulation
failure is thought to be the cause of many negative behaviors, from eating disorders to suicidal actions,
and can be a massive hinderance to successful goal pursuit. Successful self-regulation is what allows
individuals to overcome failures and persist to achieve goals and become successful. Through fMRI
studies, computer simulation games, eye-tracking activities, questionnaires, genotyping and gambling
simulations our research analyzes the motivating factors and cognitive influences that help form the
decisions teenagers make, leading to a greater understand of why some adolescents participate in risky
behavior and why some do not. Also, correlations between these risky behaviors and mental illnesses
will be searched for.
Preston Bowes, Brian Iezzi, Calvin Xiao
Constructing and Testing a Contact Angle Measuring Device Using Self-Assembled Monolayers of
Octadecyltrichlorosilane
Abstract: The engineering goal of this project was to design and test a Contact Angle Measuring Device
(CAMD) that can be used by the students here at NCSSM to obtain accurate and consistent
measurements for liquid contact angles on various surfaces. The device is used to capture high quality
photos of water droplets which are then analyzed by an image processing software called ImageJ. This
software allows us to calculate the contact angle of the water droplet in the image. To test our device
we created self assembled monolayers (SAM) of octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) on silicon substrates
through chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The CVD process is carried out in a desicator under 0.67kPa
(the vapor pressure of OTS at 20°C). At this level the rate of deposition of OTS on the Si wafers is slow
enough to manipulate the contact angle by removing the wafers after different time intervals. We used
time periods of 2, 12, and 48 hours. The results observed gave us similar values for the 2 and 48 hour
process and inconclusive data for the 12 hour sample. The results for the 2 and 48 hour samples can be
attributed to our lack of a precise pressure gauge compatible with the desiccator we used and time
constraints. Our results show that the CVD of OTS on Si substrates is a good method for manipulating
water contact angles. They also show the capabilities and limitations of our CAMD and the ImageJ
program.
Jenifer Brown
Modification of Cotton Fabric for Oil Clean Up
(Mentors and Teachers: AJ Attar - Appealing Products, INC; Myra Halpin - NCSSM)
Abstract: The explosion of the Deepwater Horizon rig in the Gulf of Mexico left a massive oil spill
without environmentally viable and effective clean-up methods. To solve this problem, a reusable oil
absorption device that contains, reclaims, and discards oil is needed. The creation of natural fibers
modified for increased oleophilicity may be a simple and effective clean-up method. To find the best
modified fabric suitable for this application, hydrophobic and oleophilic surfaces were prepared from
the naturally hydrophilic material. Cotton was chosen as the best natural fabric for this use; previous
literature shows its effective surface modification using silanes. Pure cotton fabric was modified through
condensation reactions using Ethylperfluorooctadecylsilane, Ocatdecyltrimethoxysilane, 10-
(Carbomethoxy)decyldimethoxysilane, and Chlorotrimethylsilane. Water contact angle measurements
were taken to assess hydrophobicity, and oil soak trials were performed on wet and dry modified fabrics
to determine which had the highest oil adsorbing capacity. The Ethylperfluorooctadecylsilane modified
fabric was the most hydrophobic, yet the chlorotrimethylsilane modified fabric adsorbed the greatest
amount of oil while wet, making it the most effective for use in aquatic systems. Further work includes
testing of toxicity, efficacy over time, and oil reclamation capability.
Jenifer Brown, Jessie Duan, Alex Li, Nicholas Liu, Joseph Moo-Young
Development and Analysis of Polyvinyl Alcohol Shields for Radiation Protection in Spaceflight
Abstract: Radiation shields have traditionally been made of heavy, inflexible materials, such as lead,
concrete, and steel; however, these materials are not effective against, nor conducive to the unique
requirements of spaceflight, with encounters of solar flare proton, gamma ray, and cosmic ray radiation.
A new generation of shields made of plastics and light-weight materials is being investigated. This
research studied the effectiveness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) shields at protecting hard drives from data
corruption, and amino acids from oxidative damage, both due to radiation exposure in near-space
conditions. Through a competitive proposal and funding grant process, this project was accepted for
flight aboard a high-altitude balloon, and reached near-space conditions at 107,489 feet. Cumulative
radiation exposure during the flight was measured using CR-39 dosimeters, which indicated a slight
positive association between PVA shield thickness and shield effectiveness. Further ground testing using
an X-ray generator and detector confirmed the radiation shielding abilities of PVA. The results of this
study indicate that the PVA shields created are a promising way to protect against ionizing radiation,
with great potential utility not only in spaceflight, but also specimen preservation, occupational health,
public safety, and a number of other applications.
Taylor Brown, Brittany Davis
The Portrayal of Young Women in Teen Magazines
Abstract: As students of the Research in Humanities class, we analyzed the portrayal of young female
adults in magazine advertisements. Our research questions were as follows: How are current young
female models physically portrayed in magazine advertisements designed for teen girls? How do these
models compare to models in magazine advertisements published in the 1980s? Our project was an
example of a visual humanities study. We used a content analysis method to study the human models
in magazine advertisements.
Sydney Browning
The Use of Peptides as Adjuvants: Linking Adjuvant Activity to Cell Cytotoxicity
(Mentors and Teachers: Herman Staats, Afton Thompson - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: Adjuvants can improve a vaccine’s effectiveness by improving the body’s immune response.
However, the mechanisms for this are unknown. Adjuvants can also cause mast cell degranulation and
cell cytotoxicity. Therefore, this experiment is designed to test whether or not adjuvant activity is
directly linked to cell cytotoxicity. We found there to be a link between adjuvants that other studies
have shown to produce an increased adjuvant activity and increased levels of cytotoxicity, but this was
not confirmed by our own test of adjuvant activity. Therefore the experiments do not reject or confirm
our hypothesis.
Molly Burns
Approximate Entropy Reveals the Effects of Ankle Bracing on Postural Stability
(Mentors and Teachers: Darin Padua, Steve Zinder - UNC Chapel Hill; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: A relationship between subjects with chronic ankle instability and decreased postural stability
has been determined in previous studies. Sway data can be used as a linear analysis of the center of
pressure to determine the postural control of a subject. Approximate Entropy may be a more sensitive
way of verifying the extent of a subject’s postural instability as this nonlinear analysis highlights the level
of chaos in a given time series. The purpose of this experiment is to determine differences in the ability
for subjects with chronic ankle instability and controls to balance on one foot while in a variety of ankle
bracing conditions and to use linear and nonlinear measurements to analyze the COP over a given
period of time.
Krysti Byrd
CABG Versus CABG + SVR: Predicting the Best Survival
(Mentors and Teachers: Robert Jones - Duke Clinical Research Institution)
Abstract: Background: When the STICH (Surgical Treatment for Ischemic Heart Failure) began, patients
from around the world were enrolled based on specific criteria. Patients had to be able to give consent,
have heart failure, have a left ventricular ejection fraction of 0.35 or less and been eligible for
revascularization. After enrollment, patients were then randomized into 3 categories (MED, CABG +
MED, CABG + SVR). Those who were evaluated for hypothesis 2 came from the CABG with MED and
CABG with SVR groups. The CABG with MED was used for both hypotheses. As of now, all the surgeries
have been completed and all data has been received. The next step for the global trial is to create a
statistical algorithm to model projected survival rates.
Objectives: The purpose of this research is to determine the survival difference between CABG and
CABG+SVR. The overall endpoint is death. The trial goes to a 20 year follow up.
Methods: All data was sent to the Duke Clinical Research Institute and processed. Follow-up calls were
completed and updated through the outreach program.
Results: The percentage of deaths in both populations at 5 years is approximately the same at 28%
death.
Conclusions: Although our data does not show a benefit of adding SVR to CABG procedures, it is still
thought that there might be a comfort benefit. The trial will continue for 20 years for follow-up. Until
then, our data is deemed inconclusive.
Katy Carter
A Comparative Analysis of Selection Curves of Spadefoot Toad Tadpoles Across Allopatric Ponds
(Mentors and Teachers: Jeff Paull, David Pfennig - UNC Chapel Hill; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Research into spadefoot toads has delved into evolutionary selection patterns that have
shown disruptive selection as the most common pattern in sympatric ponds. However, after disruptive
selection has occurred for a long period of time, the competition for resources could cause an alteration
in the mode of selection based on the frequency at which certain phenotypes exist. In this study, we use
traits such as mouthpart, gut length, and labial rows to determine what level carnivores same-species
tadpoles were so they could be classified on a morphological index. A cubic spline analysis was done to
generate a function representative of the mode of selection acting on that pond based on the common
phenotypes. All three ponds showed some form of stabilizing selection, which is opposite of what was
discovered in studies from previous years. These results support that there is a cycling in the mode of
selection on the pond as speciation and differentiation occur.
Joshua Chen
Poly(Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) Microspheres as Carriers for Mesenchymal Stem Cells for use in the
Intervertebral Disc
(Mentors and Teachers: Jun Chen, Duke Univ. ; John Kirk, NCSSM)
Abstract: Mesenchymal Stem Cells have a well documented capability to differentiate into cartilage
tissue, which is very similar to the tissue in the nucleus pulposus. We found that PLGA microspheres
provide an adequate surface for them to anchor to, especially when coated with matrix proteins.
Significant among these is laminin 10. Laminin is found in the extracellular matrix of the nucleus
pulposus, so they may be effective in influencing MSCs to differentiate into NP cells. This would be key
in using microspheres in tissue engineering in the NP region because microspheres could provide a
scaffold that conforms better to irregular spaces and their biodegradability would be key in the
integration of cells attached to the microspheres into the tissue matrix.
Bojia Chen
Volume Measurement for Microfluidics Biochips using Capacitance Sensing Circuits
(Mentors and Teachers: Krishnendu Chakrabarty - Duke Univ.; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: In safety critical applications such as health assessment, food-safety testing, and air quality
monitoring, the reliability and accuracy of a microfluidic biochip becomes a great concern. This brings up
the importance of adequate testing these chips after manufacturing and during operations. Current
methods of error-checking are, however, function-oblivious, meaning that the system can tell you where
there is a defect but not what the defect affects. In this project, we will introduce the idea of functional
testing of microfluidic biochips and this paper will focus primarily on droplet transportation and
dispensing. Using capacitance sensing circuits to measure volume on a nanoliter scale, we can employ
the use of electrodes at reservoirs on the chip to detect any transportation or dispensing problems.
Michelle Cone
A Comparison of Maternity, Paternity, and Parental Leave Policies and Views on Gender Equality: The
United States and Sweden
(Mentors and Teachers: Katharine Bartlett - Duke Univ. School of Law; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Countries in Europe, specifically Sweden, tend to have more generous maternity, paternity,
and parental leave plans than the United States. Some studies show that more generous leave policies
favor an increase in father involvement in childcare while others claim that these two factors are
unrelated. Substantive equality and formal equality models are used to describe approaches to gender
equality with substantive equality providing one sex with certain accommodations to account for
differences between sexes. The awareness of gender norms that inhibit women in the workplace has
caused an increase in substantive equality across the world. The policies of Sweden follow a more
substantive equality approach and those of the United States follow a more formal approach. A
combination of the equality approaches yields the highest gender equality in a country. The United
States’ maternity and paternity policies should be altered to follow a policy that balances both the
formal and substantive equality models in order to increase gender equality in the country.
Dustin Cocklereece, Oluwatosin Omofoye
Solar Vehicle
(Mentors and Teachers: John Morrison - NCSSM)
Abstract: Performed research to find a solar panel that would collect enough amperes and volts to
power a DC motor enough to propel a model car. Performed test with various model cars in order to
achieve the maximum efficient design. Solar panels were collected to test with various size motors.
None of the solar panels collected enough solar energy to power the motor, so the final project is
propelled by solar panel and DC motor kit. Research was then performed to understand why the
independently purchased solar panels would not power the motors. A conclusion was drawn stating
that not enough energy was collected to provide a sufficient amount of amperes, or flow of charge to
propel the vehicle.
Kyle Delehanty
Measuring the Frequency of Tainted Applications in the Android Marketplace with the TaintDroid
Platform
(Mentors and Teachers: Landon Cox - Duke Univ.; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Android based smartphones have access to many details of personal information, which some
users may not want collected. Applications in the Android App Marketplace have the potential to take
the personal information and send it out to third parties without notifying the end user. Thanks to Dr.
Landon Cox and Peter Gilbert of Duke University, as well as researchers from Penn State University and
Intel Corporation, an android based taint detection platform called "TaintDroid" has been developed to
test applications and trustworthy mobile sensing.
Jessie Duan
Rainwater Collection System Automated Emptying Device
(Mentors and Teachers: Lars Hanson - Triangle J Council of Governments; Ershela Sims - NCSSM)
Abstract: Rain barrels and other rainwater collection systems are being promoted in North Carolina
because of their ability to both capture stormwater and provide a source of non-potable water to offset
potable water use. One of the most widely cited problems with rainwater collection systems is a
behavioral one: owners do not use their collected water, so rain falls into a full barrel. The captured
stormwater then serves no purpose, and in fact may be detrimental to stormwater systems.
Development of an inexpensive device to (partially) empty rainwater collection systems over time in an
automated fashion could improve the utility of rain barrel systems. Triggering mechanisms, flow control,
complexity, cost, and other factors must be considered. A solar-powered mechanism using a float
switch, timer, and solenoid valve was selected as the optimal configuration. A prototype of this device
was then constructed.
Peitong Duan, Matt Jordan, Monica Poletti, Christy Vaughn
Mean Field Analysis for Cellular Automata
(Mentors and Teachers: Jonathan Mattingly - Duke Univ.; Dan Teague - NCSSM)
Abstract: We compare the mean field analysis with simulations for a specific one dimensional graph.
The graph is composed of individuals. Each individual has one of two opinions. Each individual has a
neighborhood of four other individuals which influence their opinion. Each individual can change its
opinion over time, based on its neighbors. We have created a mean field analysis to predict this change
in opinion of the entire graph over time. We were able to see how closely simulations matched this
mean field analysis.
Amber Ellis
Appalachian Music Through the Great Depression
Abstract: My research project is a content analysis of Appalachian music through the age of the Great
Depression. Since the Appalachian region's already high rate of poverty insulated it from the effects of
the Great Depression, I examined whether or not the music followed this same pattern. Using samples
from various artists through the period, I looked at thematic changes and whether or not they followed
the economic trends of the country or the local area.
Corbin Ester
The Effects of Frontal Plane Foot Displacement and Knee Valgus Moment on the Loading of the ACL
(Mentors and Teachers: Barnett Frank, Darin Padua - UNC Chapel Hill; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Purpose: To examine the relationship between knee valgus moment and frontal plane
displacement with respect to loading of the ACL during an side-step cutting task. Design: Descriptive
Laboratory Study. Methods: The participants performed the side-step cutting task. Data was collected
during the task, being collected into graphs. The graphs were analyzed for key independent and
dependent variables, then compiled into excel sheets. Pearson product-moment correlations were then
calculated with the data. Results: Three of the Pearson Product Correlations (which are highlighted)
show significant correlations: knee valgus moment is lesser at initial contact when the foot is further
from the trunk(r=.419), at peak varus moment when the foot is further from the trunk(r=.379), and at
peak valgus angle while the foot is further displaced from trunk(r=.363). Conclusion: There is evidence
that as the foot is displaced further away in the frontal plane from the trunk, the less of a valgus
moment there will be; with the valgus moment being minimized, the ACL loading is being minimized,
therefore decreasing the risk of ACL tear.
Alyssa Ferris
Localization of crasiRNA on Macropus eugenii (tammar wallaby) chromosomes
(Mentors and Teachers: Judy Brown - Univ. of Connecticut; Amy Sheck - NCSSM)
Abstract: Centromere repeat-associated small interfering RNA (crasiRNA) is a distinct size class of RNA
ranging from 34 - 42 nucleotides. A previous study showed that crasiRNA was transcribed from
centromeric repeats of DNA and postulated that these sequences were involved in centromere
regulation. This study examined the locations of more RNA sequences on the chromosomes of the
tammar wallaby. The sequences were selected from a pool of candidates of the correct length based on
the number of times they appeared in the pool and the type of repeat they were transcribed from. The
sequences were labeled using fluorescent tags and then the cells were imaged using a fluorescent
microscope. The results showed that all of the sequences which were successfully imaged were present
at the centromere.
Davis Goodnight
Content Bias in ABC, CBS, and NBC Nightly News Programs
(Mentors and Teachers: George Rabinowitz - UNC Chapel Hill; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: An unbiased, comprehensive media is crucial to the aims of a democracy, so much academic
study has been focused on whether that truly exists in the United States. This project analyzed ABC,
CBS, and NBC’s nightly news programs using a new coding scheme to find possible sources of bias. After
using this scheme to analyze data during the time leading up to the 2010 midterm elections, some
unique trends appeared, but these trends cannot be confirmed as signs of systematic bias, a fact that
warrants further study.
Marissa Grisham
Comparison of Rooftop Surfaces Using Albedo and Urban Heat Island Effect
(Mentors and Teachers: Linda Schmalbeck - NCSSM)
Abstract: One common problem in major cities today is the observed Urban Heat Island Effect- cities
being significantly warmer than the surrounding countryside due to increased black surfaces, surfaces
with low reflective qualities. My experiment compares the albedo of common rooftop surfaces to study
their mitigation values for the Urban Heat Island Effect. I used an existing insulated structure and
modified the roofing to sections of standard tar, painted white, and green planted material.
Temperature measurements were taken to place a value on the mitigation quality of each surface. The
measurements were taken in a rural area during the months of April and May 2011. Standard white
outdoor paint was used to create the white roof for readings. Planted roofing material from the
company Xero Flor was generously donated for the green roof readings. Measurements were taken on
the Eastern and Western peaks of the roof for each surface, as well as in between the felt mats of the
green roofing, totaling 8 readings continuously. These two mitigations for Urban Heat Island Effect can
help decrease the warming of cities around the world and possibly have a great effect in climate change.
Katrina Gutierrez, Greeshma Samashekar, Ada Taylor
MedPAL: Protect Another Life
(Mentors and Teachers: Steve Bell, Myra Halpin, Cosmin Muneanu - NCSSM)
Abstract: We have designed and created a prototype of our project, MedPAL, which is a smartphone
application that works in conjunction with a Bluetooth enabled heart rate monitor worn by the user. In
response to irregularities in heart rate, MedPAL will automatically contact a call center and/or personal
emergency contacts based on GPS coordinates, as well as alerting those in the vicinity verbally and
displaying important medical information. Its purpose it to help make those living alone with health
problems more secure by ensuring that if a problem occurs, help can be summoned as quickly as
possible and emergency care providers have the information to accurately treat the user.
Deanna Harrell
Association between Anxiety and Atrial Fibrillation Symptom Severity
(Mentors and Teachers: Anil Gehi - UNC Chapel Hill; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Rhythm control in atrial fibrillation (AF) is primarily directed at symptom relief. Anxiety is
frequently reported in patients with AF, but its influence on AF symptom severity is unclear.
In 139 patients with AF presenting to an EP clinic, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and
AF Severity Scale (AFSS) questionnaires were completed. HADS score was categorized into 3 groups: no
anxiety (0-7), possible anxiety (8-10), and probable anxiety (11+). Covariance analysis was used to
evaluate the association between anxiety and AF symptom severity (AFSS score, range 0-35). AF burden
was assessed by self-report also using the AFSS questionnaire.
Mean age was 61.2 ± 13.8 years, 66.6% male, 88% Caucasian, and 54.7% persistent AF. Comorbidities
included: HTN (52.7%), prior MI (5.3%), DM (20%), CHF (16%), and active smoking (8%). Mean AFSS
score was 13.3.
After adjustment for age, gender, persistent vs paroxysmal AF, HTN, history of MI, DM, CHF, smoking,
and AF burden, AF patients with no anxiety (n=113) had an AFSS score of 12.6 (95% CI 11.2, 14.0),
possible anxiety (n=18) had an AFSS score of 16.1(95% CI 12.4, 19.7), and probable anxiety (n=8) had an
AFSS score of 23.6(95% CI 18.1, 29.1). The correlation between anxiety and AF symptom severity was
significant (P<0.001).
AF patients with increasing degrees of anxiety report more severe AF symptoms, even after adjusting for
important confounders. Anxiety may be an important mediator of AF symptom severity that needs to be
addressed as an adjuvant to AF care.
Pranav Haravu, Vipul Vacharajani
A study on the photocatalytic disinfectant effect of annealed, anodized, and substrate-embedded

TiO2 thin films on E. coli
Abstract: Waterborne diarrheal disease is a widespread global health issue, and novel methods of
disinfection are needed to improve the prevention. Photo-catalytic disinfection using titanium dioxide
thin-film coatings and sunlight is a potential solution to this problem. Evaluation of photo-catalytic killing
of bacteria for various substrates is studied extensively; however, few comparative studies exist
comparing the relative abilities of different substrates. We have compared the photo-catalytic
disinfectant effect of doctor-blade Lexan, annealed, and anodized films on Escherichia coli K-12 bacteria.
Titanium dioxide thin films were prepared in three ways: (1) anodizing of titanium metal, (2) heating of
titanium metal in a kiln, and (3) formation of thin films on Lexan plastic by a doctor blade technique. A
suspension of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in Luria-Bertani (LB) medium was prepared. Each substrate along
with a measured amount of suspension was placed into an airtight centrifuge tube. The tubes were
exposed to visible light for 3 days in a sterile hood. Bacterial growth in these different conditions was
compared using optical density (OD) measurements in each tube before and after treatment with the
substrate. In a second test, a viable bacterial count method was used to determine bacterial
concentration.
The anodized substrate consistently demonstrated photo-catalytic disinfectant effect, while the
annealed substrate did not demonstrate a significant effect. The bacterial count data provided support
for a positive correlation between anodized film thickness and photo-catalytic disinfectant effect. The
Lexan substrate demonstrated inconsistent results in the OD test which were resolved in the bacterial
count test.
Maggie Haynes
Sprouting dynamics of wild type blood vessels and Flt-1 mutants in mice retinas
(Mentors and Teachers: John Chappell - UNC Chapel Hill; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Through the process of angiogenesis blood vessel networks are able to develop through pre-
existing blood vessels. These developments take place because of extrinsic cues given by vascular
endothelial growth factor, or VEG-F, and other components like flt-1. In my research I looked at
particular sprouting dynamics of wild type and flt-1 mutants in mice retinas to see what the different
patterns were for each. Analysis of flt-1 mutants showed that the end behavior of wild type cells took
longer than flt-1 mutants. This could be because flt-1, in the vessel sprouting process, is a key
component to spacing out the development of the blood vessel network. Defects in sprouting because
of disturbances with specific components such as flt-1 can be instrumental in the progression of disease
and discomposed development.
Kevin Huang
Effect of Syncopation on One's Perception of Time
(Mentors and Teachers: Kevin Labar - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: Syncopation is a temporal deviation from an isochronous tone. The processing of a

syncopated rhythm sequence requires a more complex process than of an isochronous tone. This study
was conducted to investigate the effects of syncopation on one’s timing abilities. Six isochronous tones
were followed by an onset condition, (early, late, or control) and then further followed by two test tones
that were quicker or slower than the original six tones. The subject had to focus on the interval
between the test tones despite the deviation created by the syncopation. The results showed that the
early onset caused subjects to think that the test tones were more likely to speed up than to slow down,
and that the late onset caused the opposite effect. However, because the pitch of the tones was
changed (control and test tones alternated high and low pitch), there was an effect created where the
subject thought that if the pitch went from low pitch to high pitch, then the subject would often
respond that the tones sped up rather than slow down. The opposite is true for when the pitch went
from high pitch to low pitch. Because of this variable, this experiment resulted in no conclusions. The
test was for syncopation and the pitch affected the results, thus nothing is conclusive.
Kayla Hurst
The Wind Tunnel Effect And Its Role In Harvesting Wind Energy On The NCSSM Campus
Abstract: The goal of this research was to characterize the localized wind patterns in the ETC courtyard
that result in the highest and most sustained winds on campus. The results of that study were used to
evaluate the area underneath the overpass tunnel (gerbil tunnel) connecting the second floor of the
Bryan building to the second floor of the ETC building as a potential site for a small wind turbine. In
measurements made over several years it was noted that this location on campus appears to produce a
wind tunnel effect where air movement is accelerated as it passes under the tunnel. The ETC courtyard
area was evaluated using a series of ten-minute average wind speed measurements and infrared
radiation temperature measurements at the six different locations throughout and around the ETC
courtyard. Although a slight wind tunnel effect was present at this location, it was not sufficient to
produce reliable energy using a typical wind turbine.
Adeolu Ilesanmi
Effects of dietary zinc on TGF-beta and cell-mediated immunity
(Mentors and Teachers: Amy Sheck - NCSSM)
Abstract: Effector T cells normally attack invading antigens. Too few of these cells cause poor immune
health in the host organism, while too much proliferation of these cells can induce autoimmune
response. Previous studies suggest that modulated expression of Transforming Growth Factor-beta
(TGF-beta) by T-reg cells inhibits the effector T cells. Studies have also shown that the presence of
dietary zinc (Zn) can inhibit the stimulatory effects of TGF-beta. It remains unclear whether this Zn-
induced process also inhibits expression of the TGF-beta protein on T-reg cells, thus, potentially
enhancing the activity of effector T cells. In this study, I examined the effects of high and low doses of
zinc acetate on the concentrations of TGF-beta1 in the serum of 12-day-old chicken embryos. Results of
the ELISA assay showed little difference between the control and the Zn treatments; however, a slight
downward trend in TGF-beta in the Zn treatments suggests that inhibition may occur. The small
marginal difference of TGF-beta concentrations among the treatment groups results from the low
baseline level of TGF-beta in the control chick embryos. Larger marginal differences may be obtained if
the study were performed on an animal with higher baseline TGF-beta levels, such as mice. These results
warrant further study of the possibility of dietary zinc as a tool to regulate the dynamics of T-reg and
effector T cells and, thus, the possibility of using zinc to obtain and maintain an optimum immune
health.
Aakash Indurkhya
A Novel Approach to Optimal Parameter Growth Analysis and Environmental Regulation Systems for
Green Microalga, S.dimorphus
Abstract: Microalgae, which absorb substantial quantities of CO2 in growth, are effective producers of
biodiesel and have received attention as candidates to reduce the effects global warming and reduce
international oil dependency. This project aimed to find optimal growth parameter values, specifically
for irradiance, for S. dimorphus, a species of microalga with especially high lipid yield. It was expected
that the exposure of S. dimorphus to X-ray radiation for controlled periods of time (20 minutes) would
increase growth of algae. However, it was also expected that too much (30 minutes) radiation would
decrease growth in S. dimorphus due to epigenetic damage to the cells. An optimal bioreactor
regulation system was simultaneously designed using the LabVIEW programming language. Absorbance
of the visible spectra (395.2 nm) was utilized to measure growth in the algae and could be considered a
quick and inexpensive method of measurement. It was found that 20 minutes of radiation yielded more
growth from the algae. Algae exposed to radiation were found to have shortened lag phases after
inoculation; this phenomenon could be related to growth changes and should be further studied. The
designed regulation systems were partially developed using a programmed Arduino microprocessor,
temperature and pH sensors, and parameter correction probes. The stand-alone system regulates
temperature and pH while displaying current and target parameter values. The combination of more
confirmed optimal parameters and the development of this technology will greatly improve growth
efficiency and promote use of environmentally friendly biodiesel.
Tucker Jones
A Cross-Cultural Comparison of Decision Under Uncertainty: Testing Prospect Theory in China, India,
and the United States
(Mentors and Teachers: Srikar Bongu, Ralph Byrns - UNC Chapel Hill; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Behavioral economics, a rising field, is the fusion of economic and psychological analyses to
create a more holistic description of human behavior. Prospect Theory, outlined by Daniel Kahneman
and Amos Tversky, is a behavioral economics attempt to describe decisions under uncertainty. It differs
from classical economic descriptions of risk analysis and is "less rational". This study uses a survey to
compare the predictive power of Prospect Theory and two more classical theories among three
populations of high school students: one from China, one from India, and one from NCSSM. The results
suggest that the American subjects were less strictly rational than the Asian subjects, and that the
Chinese subjects were less risk averse than either the Indian or American subjects.
Seongik Kang
Modern web programming: techniques for a more accessible web
(Mentors and Teachers: Gary Bishop - UNC Chapel Hill)
Abstract: The modern web is no longer a text based interface. Fancy graphic user interfaces (GUIs)
dominate most modern websites and web applications. However, individuals with visual disabilities are
unable to navigate such interfaces and therefore cannot take advantage of many online resources. In
response to this situation, several web programmers have researched different methods and tools for
making the web more accessible. One specific area of this initiative is the creation of games that have
features that make the game accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Lillian Kang, Sangeetha Kumar, Kali Xu
Quantitative Trait Loci Analysis of Gene Expression in Liver Tissue in Relation to Atherosclerotic Lesion
Development
(Mentors and Teachers: Gary Churchill, Susan McClatchy - Jackson Laboratory; Robert Gotwals - NCSSM)
Abstract: Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease that is regulated by a variety of inflammatory pathways

involving lipid transport and metabolism. In this study, our goal was to identify genes involved with
atherosclerotic plaque development, which will enable us to suggest appropriate regulation of gene
expression to inhibit atherosclerotic development and progression. We wrote R scripts to conduct a
quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis of genotype and phenotype (specifically, fatty streak aortic lesion
size, an indicator of atherosclerosis progression) data from C57BL/6J x 129S1SvImJ and C57BL/6J x
C3H/HeJ mouse crosses. From the QTL analysis, we created a list of genes that are related to fatty streak
aortic lesion sizes and are likely to affect atherosclerosis development. This initial list was built by using
the Mouse Genome Informatics database to find protein coding genes in the areas of the QTL
confidence intervals. We performed single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis, using the UNC
Mouse Phylogeny Viewer to identify where strains were identical by descent and then searching for
SNPs in the remaining areas on the Sanger Mouse Genome website. We chose nine promising genes
from the remaining candidate genes based on gene ontology and mammalian phenotype information.
These were analyzed for gene expression, specifically the effects of strain, based on probe information.
At the conclusion of our study, these may be analyzed further in a wet lab setting. If concrete
associations between these genes and atherosclerosis progression are determined, regulation of these
genes could be explored as a possibility for atherosclerosis prevention and treatment.
Elizabeth Kelley
Radio Emissions from Lightning: Differentiating between Intracloud and Cloud-to-Ground Flashes
(Mentors and Teachers: Jonathan Bennett - NCSSM)
Abstract: Identification of lightning discharges as either cloud-to-ground or intracloud discharges based

on early stage flash processes, such as initial-breakdown pulse polarity, duration, and intervals, using
radio emission data collected with an antenna (2.8mH inductance) and amplifier circuit, with an overall
gain of 0.3V/nT, whose output is superimposed with a 1PPS GPS Signal and processed in LabVIEW.
Identifications are compared with the identifications made by the National Lightning Detection Network
(NLDN) in order to determine both the percentage of misidentifications and features most often
resulting in misidentification.
Pooja Kodavanti
Understanding Risk Factors in Autism: Mouse SHANK3 Gene Methylation and the Role of Folic Acid
(Mentors and Teachers: Yong-hui Jiang, Yoonji Lee - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: The autism mystery has reached the forefront of research and perplexed scientists for the
past 20 years. Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairment
in social interactions, lack of proficiency in language and communication, and repetitive behavior. Of the
twenty candidate genes linked to autism, the deletion of the SHANK3 gene, which codes for a synaptic
scaffolding protein has also shown to be affected by DNA methylation. DNA methylation involves the
addition of a methyl group to DNA subsequently inhibiting the expression of the gene. Due to the
possibility of epigenetic involvement, folic acid, a B-complex vitamin taken by pregnant women to
prevent neural tube defects, has the potential to methylate the SHANK3 gene and thus acts as a risk
factor for autism. Bisulfite sequencing was conducted on a specific CpG island (sites of methylation) in
order to measure the methylation rates comparing folic acid-treated mice and normal control mice.
Although the results showed that there was no difference in the methylation rates between the two sets
of data, further studies should be conducted in order to confirm what was found. In addition, only one
CpG site on the SHANK3 gene was tested, plus there are multiple candidate genes that could also be
affected by folic acid including MECP2 and OXTR. In addition, specifically CpG site 15 showed some
difference in methylation rate between folic acid-treated samples and normal control samples.
Additional studies are required to understand the role of folic acid in autism.
Molly Kuo
SNP detection in Amboseli baboons
(Mentors and Teachers: Susan Alberts, Jeff Stroud - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) indicate changes in genetic code when two different
bases occur, and they can differentiate individuals. SNPs can be detected in a number of ways, in this
case through sequencing. Identifying SNPs is important in not only paternity testing and criminal
investigations, but it is also the first step in linking behavior and genetics. For several baboon genes,
SNPs were found. With these SNPs, the hope is to eventually link them to specific behaviors in these
well-studied baboons.
Charlotte Laun
Learning from touch: when and how children learn to process information about rigidity and apply it
to tool use
(Mentors and Teachers: Amy Joh - Child Learning Lab)
Abstract: To effectively utilize a tool, we must first observe the properties of a tool by exploration,
recognize how these properties could be applied to a certain goal, and then make the decision to
implement the tool in carrying out this goal. But how does the ability to use tools develop? Children in
five different age groups (24-, 30-, 36-, 42-, and 48-month-olds) were presented with rigid and
deformable sticks to retrieve a small toy from a clear plastic tube. Exploration of the tools did not
increase with age, but overall success did, showing that older children were more able to process the
perceptual information they gathered and apply it effectively.
Ryan Lee
Random Occurrence of α-Helical Amphiphilic Potential Solves the Protein Evolution Quandary
(Mentors and Teachers: William Parker - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: Proper protein folding requires (1) folding path information that guides the unfolded chain
towards a 3D shape and (2) native state interactions that lock down the final structure. The
independence of these requirements suggests that in the face of overwhelming odds, natural selection
must simultaneously optimize two separate factors, presenting a quandary to our understanding of
protein evolution. We approached this problem by examining the evolutionary constraints imposed by
the need for a folding path. Increasing evidence supports the idea that protein folding is directed by
intermediate amphiphilic α-helices, a ubiquitous folding motif for all proteins regardless of native
structure. Our evaluation of the α-helical amphiphilic potential in randomly ordered amino acid
sequences and assessment of the conservation of α-helical amphiphilic potential in various protein
phylogenies revealed that α-helical amphiphilic potential is a common occurrence in random
sequences and that the distribution of α-helical amphiphilic potential is not conserved in
phylogeny within a given protein. The results suggest that the initial rapid formation of 3D globules of
intermediate amphiphilic helices may be more a reflection of the fundamental nature of polymers of
naturally occurring amino acids rather than a trait that must be derived or maintained by natural
selection.
Nathaly Lemoine
Identification of a nonsense mutation in exon 12 of Hemophilia A Old English Sheep Dog
(Mentors and Teachers: Dwight Bellinger, Mark Kloos, Elizabeth Merricks - UNC Chapel Hill;
John Kirk- NCSSM)
Abstract: A nonsense mutation resulting in the transition from an arginine codon (CGA) to a stop codon
(TGA) in exon 12 has been identified in Austin, a factor VIII deficient Old English Sheep Dog donated to
the Frances Owen Blood Research Laboratory for their Chapel Hill hemophilia A dog colony. The colony,
which represents the intron 22 inversion most commonly seen in 40% of patients, will benefit from the
addition of a new canine model. This mutation, which is found in the amino acid 596 (Arg596) position in
canine and in the homologous amino acid (Arg583) position in humans, can be studied for its effects on
inhibitor formation, factor replacements, and gene therapy to further the knowledge of hemophilia in
humans. The premature stop codon results in low factor VIII in the blood, so that Austin displays severe
symptoms such as frequent bleeding. Researched aimed at understanding the nature of this mutation
will lead to more efficient treatments that can subdue these symptoms.
By using a simple PCR analysis and Taq digest enzyme, this C-T transition can be easily detected in both
canines and humans. Breeders, especially, can save time and money by quickly identifying carriers and
affected dogs to prevent future generations of the mutation. And although this mutation is not as
common as the intron 22 in humans, hospitals can use this method to either detect the C to T transition
in hemophiliac patients or eliminate a possible mutation out of many.
Paul Lee
The therapeutic potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells on injured mice under
sublethal irradiation
(Mentors and Teachers: Benny Chen, Divino Deoliveira - DUMC; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Double injuries, radiation harm and physical trauma, arising from irradiation have displayed
additive injurious effects on subjects; immunosuppressive effects and wound healing impairments in
addition to physical damage show increased mortality rate than expected rates from individual injuries
on subjects. Complications of treating a double injury from radiation lies in addressing the deleterious
effects from the radiation and treating the physical wound itself.
Adapting the ear punch model, previously developed to study radiation and wound combined injury, we
examined the therapeutic effects of various prospective treatments in cellular therapy, ranging from
growth factors, such as traditional topical creams with and without steroids, to bone-marrow derived
stem cells. To mimic doses of surviving patients after a radioactive breakout, a gamma-ray irradiator
delivered moderate doses of systemic radiation to the mice (MRL/MpJ and C57Bl/6.) Studies of the
various treatments were analyzed in two ways, clinically and morphologically. Wound healing and
closure was analyzed clinically through measuring the healing rate of the wounds and reconstructed
tissues were evaluated morphologically using paraffin sections with hematoxylin-eosin stain. So far, the
study has yielded positive results for those treated with topical creams without steroids. Negative
results were observed in those treated with topical cream with steroids, as expected from impeding
hormonal effects of steroids. This study suggests that further investigation in different therapies such as
growth factors and stem cells transplants along with proper delivery of these agents may yield a
temporary treatment for double injuries that could rise from a radioactive breakout.
Alex Li
Identification of metabolites and the effect of specific cytochrome P450s on the metabolism of the
anti-androgen vinclozolin
(Mentors and Teachers: Michael Hughes – EPA; Myra Halpin - NCSSM)
Abstract: Anti-androgens are a class of endocrine-disruptors that antagonistically bind to the androgen-
receptor and have shown to cause developmental defects. In this study we investigated the metabolism
of Vinclozolin, a fungicide that has shown to be an anti-androgen in rats. Metabolism assays were first
ran using Vinclozolin, rat liver microsomes, NADPH, and a potassium phosphate monobasic-Magnesium
chloride buffer. HPLC analysis of these incubations showed that Vinclozolin is metabolized by rat liver
microsomes into the metabolites M5, M7, and M8. A second metabolism assay was run with rat
cytochrome P450 isoforms, enzymes which are involved in the metabolism of xenobiotic substances.
The HPLC analysis of the 3A1, 2A2, and 2B1 P450 isoforms showed that only the 2B1 isoform actively
metabolized Vinclozolin. The 2B1 P450 rat isoform is homologous to the human 2B6 isoform. This study
concludes that further study into the human 2B6 isoform could lead to a better understanding of which
cytochrome P450s can increase the rate at which harmful endocrine-disruptors are broken down by the
human body. This could lead to a field therapeutic treatment in which cytochrome P450 levels are
regulated to influence the rate of metabolism of endocrine-disruptors.
Tejong Lim
Finding a Nontoxic Activation Domain for Applications in Protein Sequestration
(Mentors and Teachers: Nicolas Buchler, Justine Nickerson - Duke Univ.; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Molecular titration by protein sequestration has been proven to be a significant mechanism in
genetic systems in nature. My mentor built the first synthetic gene circuit, which incorporated this type
of protein sequestration. However, the activation domain VP16 was used in the circuit, which caused
cell death by squelching. I reconstructed my mentor’s gene circuit with nontoxic activation domains
naturally found in the yeast genome. Using the equipment and facilities at Duke University from
September 2010 to February 2011, I created and tested this gene circuit. After building of the plasmid
and transformation of the genes into host yeast cells, flow cytometry revealed that only the
transactivator gene was transcribed while the reporter gene was not expressed. The gene circuit with a
nontoxic activation domain was unable to be built within the given time, but further tests and
experimentation is necessary to construct the circuit.
Maili Lim
Regional Specificity in Cognitive Effects of Nicotinic Antagonists in the Lateral Posterior Thalamus
(Posterolateral Thalamic Nucleus), Superior Colliculus, and Posterior Parietal Cortex
(Mentors and Teachers: Ed Levin - Duke Institute for Brain Sciences)
Abstract: The nicotinic receptors of cholinergic systems play an important role in cognition, making
them a common target for the treatment of cognitive disease. Systemic administration bathes the brain
with drugs. However, the brain is quite intricately organized with various regions playing very different
roles in the bases of cognitive function. We have examined the role of nicotinic receptors in a variety of
brain areas for memory. In the posterolateral thalamic nucleus or lateral posterior thalamus (LPT),
superior colliculus (SC), and posterior parietal cortex (PPC), local infusions of both α7 and
α4β2 antagonists methyllyaconitine (MLA) and dihydro-b-erythroidine (DHβE) had
varying effects. The posterolateral thalamic nucleus showed fewer errors after infusion of the α7
antagonist MLA. In contrast, the superior colliculus did not show any nicotinic antagonist effects on
memory. The posterior parietal cortex has been examined but no conclusions have been made. To
determine effects, we locally infused acute and chronic doses of MLA and DHβE into these parts of
the brain and tested memory function on a 16-arm radial maze. The study showed that 6.75 mg/side of
MLA improved working memory, but co-administration of DHβE reversed this improvement. The
function of nicotinic receptors in the lateral posterior thalamus with nicotinic receptor blockade seemed
to be conducive to working memory function.
Isaac Loh
A Mathematical Approach to Decision Making Utilizing Prelec’s Probability Weighting Model and
Reaction Time
(Mentors and Teachers: O'Dhaniel Mullette - Gillman, Duke Univ.; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Our study occurred between November of 2010 and February of 2011 at Duke University. It
was part of a larger study, being conducted by Dr. O’Dhaniel Mullette-Gillman. 182 subjects were posed
with a variety of gambles, and asked to choose between certain options of known values and uncertain
options of varying probabilities. We chose to investigate Prelec’s model of decision making, which
assigns an option utility based on its monetary value and probability. In particular, we attempted to
evaluate two constants which are key to this model, a and ρ, given subject data. However, our
power-fit of choice data seemed to overestimate utility of the uncertain option near the ambivalence
point. As a result, the relative expected value that was calculated using choice data was 0.45, a value
too low to be rational, and a and ρ could not be accurately derived. This was, however, indicative
of probability overweighting amongst our test subjects. We had more success in using trimmeaned
reaction times to predict ambivalence points. We hypothesized that subject reaction time to the gamble
would be maximized at the ambivalence point; mathematical analysis based on this assumption yielded
an ambivalence point which occurred at rEV_ambiv (RT)=1.6074, which is a value which agrees with
prior research and hints that reaction times may be a new tool in calculating ambivalence points.
Justin Martin
Aperture Shape and its Influence on Chemical Specificity in SPR Sensing
(Mentors and Teachers: Phillip Russell - Appalachain State Univ.; Jonathan Bennett - NCSSM)
Abstract: The purpose of this research project was to determine if the geometries of a certain class of
Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) based nanosensors affect their chemical specificities. Light incident
upon a periodic layer of gold in which apertures are cut excites surface plasmons that cause an amount
of extraordinary transmission of light through that grating that is greatly dependent upon the medium in
which the grating is situated. This project was accomplished by machining two types of arrays of
subwavelength apertures, a 4x4 trapezoidal array and two 7x7 rectangular arrays, and measuring the
amount by which the SPR-based light transmission spectral peaks shifted in response to different
chemicals (Acetone and Methanol). The peak shifts for the rectangular arrays were found to be greater
for Acetone than for Methanol by factors of 1.70 and 1.51, and for the trapezoidal array were found to
be greater for Methanol than for Acetone by a factor of 1.6. Taking into consideration the limitations of
the sensors and experimental setup, including factors like surface roughness, imperfections in aperture
periodicity and the signal to noise ratio of the Spectrometer used for data collection, these results
suggest that there exists a geometric dependence of chemical specificity for this type of SPR
nanosensor.
Jaden Moore
Finding the best immunotherapy dosage to administer peanut-allergic children
(Mentors and Teachers: Wesley Burks, Pamela Steele - DUMC; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Pediatric allergies have become a serious health issue in the world today. Even though some
children outgrow their allergies, a large number of children are still dying from accidentally ingesting an
allergen or coming in contact with it. Researchers are working diligently to reduce the number of deaths
by testing the effectiveness of oral immunotherapy. This therapy introduces an allergen to a patient
gradually, with the ultimate goal of creating tolerance. Under Dr. Wesley Burks, I collected and analyzed
the data from a pediatric peanut oral immunotherapy trial. In this OIT test, IgE (Immunoglobulin E) levels
of a patient, amount of dosing they were given, and the number of months they had been on the trial
are recorded in order to see how well they are tolerating the allergen. These three factors were then
graphed to examine the steepest slope, in order to find the ideal dosage to administer to pediatric
patients without giving the patient excess peanut protein. A majority of the graphs showed that 300 mg
was the optimal dosage because the steepest slope of IgE units per month corresponded to the 300 mg
of dosage. Any dosage greater than 300 mg does not make a significant change in the IgE levels of the
patient and should not be administered.
Sudarshan Mohan
Measuring a Positive Algal Growth response as a Result of Iron Fertilization
Abstract: Soils with high iron content, when carried away as Aeolian dust and deposited in an open
ocean, can serve as an iron nutrient source for algae. Indeed, research has shown evidence of noticeable
spikes in algal growth in oceans surrounding Australia after periods of heavy dust storms. As algal
cultivation in marine and freshwater environments alike spreads as a commercial enterprise, algae are
prone for being fertilized artificially, especially with soluble iron. Thus, it is necessary to understand the
effect of artificially supplied iron on certain growth and physiological characteristics of common
freshwater algae species maintained in laboratory cultures. A noticeable change in the growth rate and
chlorophyll production rate of algae as a result of iron fertilization is expected from the study. These
results are expected because iron is a known “cofactor for many enzymes” in algae, and also because
previous large-scale marine experiments have shown algae exhibits both an increase in biomass and
chlorophyll production when iron is added into its ecosystem.
Nichole Mogensen
Prenatal Cocaine Exposure: Olfactory Preference of Dams Towards Cocaine Treated and Untreated
Pups
(Mentors and Teachers: Sarah Williams - UNC Chapel Hill)
Abstract: Cocaine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It targets the dopamine
receptors in the brain and easily spurs on addiction. Prenatal cocaine usage can be extremely
detrimental to fetal development because cocaine molecules travel through the fetal blood supply
reaching the brain. Our research focused on the effects of olfactory preference of the dams, mother
rats. We researched the rat pups’ urine and looked at all of the different chemicals that we detected.
Based on their levels, we came to different conclusions about the overall data. Cocaine treated pups’
urine was preferred on PND1 and 5, but on PND3 untreated pups’ urine was preferred. Each chemical
helps explain the data in a different way, but more research needs to be done to have a final conclusion
on what cue causes neglect in the relationship between cocaine treated dams and pups.
Katelyn Montgomery
Linkages between Maternal Conversational Techniques, Children’s Autobiographical Memory, and

Children’s Deliberate Memory
(Mentors and Teachers: Hillary Langley, Peter Ornstein -UNC Chapel Hill)
Abstract: The study described here was designed to explore the effect of maternal conversational style
on children’s autobiographical memory and deliberate memory. In this experiment, a sample of twenty-
nine children, averaging an age of forty-nine months, and their mothers participated in a “Farm-to-
Market” joint activity in our laboratory. The mother-child dyads were randomly assigned to membership
in one of four experimental conditions with varying instructions as to the goal of how they should
interact with their children during the joint activity. The children were later interviewed by a researcher
to assess their event recall using a standard interview both one day and three weeks after they
participated in the novel activity. The children’s deliberate memory was also assessed by their
performance in an object memory task. Data collection is still ongoing in to obtain a complete sample of
eighty dyads. From the current sample size, there were significant differences in the number of features
and feature elaborations children recalled depending on their mother’s group assignment. Results from
the object memory task also shows that children’s deliberate memory strategies are not correlated with
the children’s recall of objects. This data is simply an indicator of possible trends we could discover from
the final sample.
Payal Patel
Covert Attention in the Simon Task (CAST)
(Mentors and Teachers: Joseph King, Franziska Korb - Duke Univ.; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: In this experiment, we investigated interference control through the Simon Task in order to
determine its origin. The attentional-shift theory proposes that the Simon effect occurs in relative to the
direction of a saccade, or a shifting of the eyes, in response to the spatial location of a stimulus rather
than a manual response. In CAST, we hypothesized that the Simon effect may originate due to overt
attentional orienting (i.e. eye movements) toward the source of stimulation and could be reduced or
eliminated by covert attention. By reducing covert attention, irrelevant spatial attention can be ignored
and a reduction in the Simon effect is hypothesized to be result. Using a basic Simon task, we were able
to obtain a significant Simon interference effect in both experimental groups. Contrastingly, our data
did not support our hypothesis; the interference effects as measured by reaction times and error rates
were statistically identical for both the covert and overt attention groups. The findings suggested that
the Simon effect does not actually originate from eye movements toward the source of stimulation.
However, additional analyses indicated that covert attention did aid in the resolution of interference.
Further analysis of error rates indicated that the covert attention group had a marked performance
benefit on the current trial if the previous trial was compatible, whereas the overt attention group did
not. Although reaction times did not display the same results, the finding of conflict adaption as a result
of attention treatment is important in understanding interference control.
Monica Perez
Using Individual Psychology to Help Explain the Differences in the American and Japanese Justice
Systems
(Mentors and Teachers: Joel Rosch - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: For my project I analyzed the psychological reasons behind the differences in the American
and Japanese justice systems, including their overall structure, responsibilities, relationships with
citizens and effectiveness at stopping and preventing crime. I focused on how individual psychology is
one psychological area that has not really been explored in relation to these justice system differences.
In my project I make the argument that greater insight can be found about these differences if we look
also at the Japanese and American police officers' individually.
Thomas Powell
Effect of ATSF during motion tasks
(Mentors and Teachers: Darin Padua - UNC Chapel Hill)
Abstract: I studied the effects of the ATSF upon the ACL during motion tasks on the lower sagittal side
of the body by using motion sensing technology and a force receiving instrument. The data collected
from 30 subjects was analyzed by finding averages and using the pearson product correlation method to
determine the the ATSF's effect upon the ACL. It was discovered that there by bending the knee
inwards, stress is relieved and injury is thus avoided.
Valencia Quiett
Premature Stop Codon Related to Stickler Syndrome Found on exon 2 of Collagen 2A1 Gene in
Pedigree
(Mentors and Teachers: Khanh-Nhat Tran Viet, Terri Young - Duke Univ.; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Myopia, nearsightedness, is a prevalent eye disease in today’s society. More severe cases of
myopia are associated with diseases such as Stickler Syndrome. Stickler Syndrome is a rare dominant
vitreoretinal degeneration that is characterized by vitreous degeneration, retinal detachments and
breaks, chorioretinal atrophy and presenile cataracts. The purpose for this study was to identify a
genetic defect in a pedigree to determine whether individuals were affected by the rare degenerative
syndrome. A three generation pedigree containing 14 individuals was studied. Only two of the
individuals were screened on the COL2A1 and CSPG2 genes. Clinical information was obtained for the
individuals and reviewed. The two tested individuals were found to have coding non-synonymous Single
Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) on the COL2A1 gene. Analysis of the COL2A1 gene identified a
mutation converting a TGC Cysteine protein to a premature stop codon on exon 2. The non-synonymous
SNP found on exon 2 of the COL2A1 gene is the causal variant for the individuals’ retinal eye
degeneration. Clinical information demonstrates the presenile cataracts and retinal detachments at a
young age associated with Stickler. Additional literature investigating other pedigrees supports the
Cysteine protein change at the same location to a premature stop codon. Additional individuals of the
pedigree will be screened and sequenced on the COL2A1 gene.
Bailey Ryan
Altruism in the slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum: altruistic and selfish policing as proposed
models for evolutionary stability
Abstract: The stability of altruistic social behavior is an ongoing issue in evolutionary biology. Because
defectors receive the benefits of others' altruism but do not pay the costs, altruists should be selected
against over time. Two mechanisms have been proposed to explain the persistence of altruism;
altruistic policing, in which cooperators in a group target cheaters and force them to behave
altruistically, and selfish policing in which cheaters target each other to maximize the benefit they
receive from exploitation of the group. A direct comparison of the altruistic policer and selfish policer
models and their effects on the maintenance of altruism has not been undertaken. This study evaluates
the models through a selection experiment involving Dictyostelium discoideum, a social amoeba that
expresses both cooperative individuals that can facilitate reproduction by forming a sterile stalk and
cheaters that exploit the group by avoiding the stalk fate. Altruistic AX4 cells were mixed with chtC, a
cheater mutant, and with one of two mutant rcc strains that inhibit cheating by chtC through either the
altruistic policing or selfish policing mechanism. As a control population, altruistic and cheating strains w
were also be mixed. The altruistic cells were tagged with GFP and their frequency in each population will
be measured over several generations. It is expected that the altruist will survive at a higher rate in
cultures with policers; the relative impact of altruistic vs. selfish policing will also be quantified.
Emily Salemi
Locomotor Patterns of Extant and Extinct Primates: An Analysis of the Locomotion of Oreopithecus
bambolii and Ardipithecus ramidus
(Mentors and Teachers: Blythe Williams - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: Throughout primate evolution, different species have evolved different foot structures to
accommodate their various locomotion patterns. Because of this, the locomotion patterns of extinct
primates can be hypothesized by comparative analysis with the feet of extant primates. This paper will
explore the different traits associated with various forms of locomotion as well as analyze the traits that
are associated with each of them. Because of the controversy surrounding their locomotion patterns,
an analysis will also be done on the feet of Oreopithecus bambolii and Ardipithecus ramidus to give
credit to an earlier theory that the former locomoted using suspensory locomotion while proposing that
the latter used a combination of suspensory and quadrupedal locomotion.
Elizabeth Schroder
Correlation between Peel Speed and Intensity of Triboluminescence in Adhesive Tape
(Mentors and Teachers: Jonathan Bennett - NCSSM)
Abstract: Triboluminescence, light from friction, is produced by the fracture or rubbing of many
materials including adhesive tape. The wavelength range of the emitted radiation depends on the
composition of the atmosphere in which triboluminescence occurs. The emission of X-rays from
triboluminescence under vacuum is of interest in the development of inexpensive tape-based X-ray
generators. To manufacture such devices, a better understanding of triboluminescence is needed. This
experiment was conducted to determine the correlation between peel speed and intensity of
triboluminescence, to confirm that nitrogen emission lines are present in triboluminescence in air and
determine whether different emission lines appear at different peel speeds. This was tested by peeling
adhesive tape with a motor at peel speeds between 5 and 30 cm sec-1 and measuring the
triboluminescence with a spectrometer. A positive correlation between peel speed and intensity was
observed and nitrogen emission lines were present and consistent throughout. These results give
quantitative support for the current theory of triboluminescence. Future studies will focus on the
reported optimal peel speed for which triboluminescence has maximum intensity.
Sagar Shukla
Development of a Tight-Binding Temperature Sensitive DNA-Protein Crosslink using GPS Scanning

Linker Mutagenesis
(Mentors and Teachers: Rachel Krasich, Kenneth Kreuzer, Zakiya Whatley - Duke Univ.;
John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: DNA-protein crosslinks (DPCs) occur when bases in the helix form adducts with analogs. This
adduct prevents base methylation, an important step in DNA replication. The development of a
temperature sensitive DPC can be used as a tool to test cellular response in when processes such as
replication and transcription are temporarily blocked or inhibited. This research aims to create such a
tool through recombinant plasmid construction and the addition of random mutations through GPS
Scanning Linker Mutagenesis to ensure tight binding. A successful plasmid, pSS2 is created after many
trials and procedures. This plasmid can be used as a base structure upon which the temperature
sensitivity will be implemented.
Elizabeth Short
Clinical and Environmental Factors that May Affect the Developing Neonatal Intestinal Microbiome
and How the Gut Microflora Affect the Neonatal Body
(Mentors and Teachers: Michael Cotton, Susan LaTuga - DUMC Patrick Seed; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: This research project is an effort to learn more about the origins of the microflora that inhabit
the intestines of premature infants and how these microorganisms affect the body. Gut microflora are
most likely influential to the body’s metabolism and diseases such as Necrotizing Enterocolitis. Eleven
babies who met certain qualifications were enrolled in the study after parental consent. Different
clinical factors were monitored and recorded for the first month of life. Multiple stool samples were
collected from the patients as well as milk, blood, and stool samples from the mothers. The samples had
to be prepared for DNA sequencing, and then they were sent to a separate lab for analysis. The other
lab used a Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometer to determine the organic matter in the samples.
The data is still undergoing analysis, so conclusions have not been drawn yet.
Greeshma Somashekar
Biophysicochemical Characterization of Engineered Nanomaterials: Silver Nanoparticles
(Mentors and Teachers: John Bang - NCCU)
Abstract: The use of synthetic nanomaterials has been increasing in an exponential rate lately for
biomedical, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications. This is mainly due to beneficial physicochemical
characteristics that larger counterparts of the same materials usually do not have. Silver (Ag) in a
nanoparticle form has become one of the most popular materials used for its antibacterial and hygiene
roles. In the real world, understanding the toxicity related issues of nanomaterials is challenging because
of numerous intrinsic variables that each nanomaterial carries. In this study, Ag NP at three different size
ranges under 100µm were exposed to human cells to figure out if there is a size range, among those less
than 100µm, that is less toxic than other size ranges to human cells. For the study, HT22 cells from a
hippocampla cell line were used in DMEM growth media in 16-well plates attached to ACEA-RT device.
The unit was placed in an incubator with 5% CO2 at 37.5°C. The HT22 cell growth was traced by
measuring the impedance registered in the ACEA-RT unit. Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) was
used to confirm the size and morphology of the Ag NPs used in the three groups. Dynamic Light
Scattering (DLS) was also used to measure the hydrodynamic diameters of the Ag NPs used. The
concentrations of the Ag NP used for cell exposure was estimated by ICP-MS. Results showed that all
three groups of Ag NP of different sizes under 100µm size influenced the level of cell growth and
proliferation.
William Su
The Binding of Ankyrin-G to TGF-beta Receptor Proteins and its Role in Maintaining TGF-beta Signaling
Pathways
(Mentors and Teachers: Damaris Lorenzo - Duke Univ./HHMI; Myra Halpin - NCSSM)
Abstract: This research investigated the binding of two critical proteins, Ankyrin-G and Transforming
Growth Factor beta (TGF-beta), that regulate and control cellular function and proliferation. In polarized
epithelial cells, TGF-beta receptors are localized on the basolateral membrane while TGF-beta ligands
are on the apical surface. This prevents spontaneous activation of downstream signaling pathways. We
believed that Ankyrin-G plays a role in maintaining receptor polarization through its binding to
receptors. This research discovered that not only do the two proteins bind, but that binding also occurs
in the kinase domain of the TGF-beta receptors. To further investigate the possibility of a parallel
between loss of Ankyrin-G binding and the localization of the receptors, proteins were transfected into
polarized epithelial cells for imaging. We found that Ankyrin-G binding is retained at the site at which
receptor I localization was lost, implicating more complex protein interactions between Ankyrin-G and
receptors. TGF-beta receptors induce cell growth and loss of localization of proteins is associated with
pathogenesis of human diseases, such as cancer. The findings of this research enhance the
understanding of TGF-beta receptors and its interactions with other proteins. This enables us to move
one step closer to understanding how cells function to prevent cancers.
Bryce Taylor
A Study of the Ionization of Deuterium Gas by Pyroelectric Crystals
(Mentors and Teachers: Werner Tornow - Duke Univ.; Stephen Shafroth - UNC Chapel Hill;
Jon Bennett - NCSSM)
Abstract: Current neutron sources are usually the size of rooms and thus too large to be portable.
Portable neutron sources are particularly desirable for their use in the detection of hidden explosives. In
this project, we work towards the development of a portable neutron source based on pyroelectric
crystals. Pyroelectric crystals polarize to produce an electric field when heated or cooled in a near-
vacuum. We use this electric field to ionize and accelerate deuterium, studying whether molecular
deuterium (D_2) is ionized and dissociated (D^+) or just ionized (D_2^+) and how the extent of
dissociation depends on the cooling of the crystal. D_2^+ contains only half the energy of D^+ per
nucleus, so it will not produce as many neutrons. Using magnets to deflect the positive ions, we are able
to separate them by mass-to-charge ratio and thus distinguish between D_2^+ and D^+. We present
proof of both appreciable counts of both D_2^+ and D^+ ions.
Yunqian (Sherry) Tang
Effects of di-butyl phthalate (DBP) on developing Medaka embryos
Abstract: Plasticizers are a group of chemicals commonly used to enhance the flexibility of plastic
products. They are ubiquitous environmental contaminant because plastic products have such wide
range of applications and the plasticizers leak out over time due to the fact that they are not chemically
bonded to the plastic. Not only are plasticizers present in everyday products such as containers and
toys, they have also been shown to be present in river and lake waters, river sediments, and event in
farming soil (Vitali et al, 1997). Specifically, plasticizers have been detected in relatively high
concentrations in waste water treatment effluents (Vitali et al, 1997). The present study aimed to
investigate the effects of a water-soluble plasticizer, di-butyl phthalate (DBP) on developing Medaka
(Oryzias latipes) embryos. Groups of 10 eggs were placed into jars containing the following solutions:
Embryo rearing medium (ERM) as negative control, 2.5% ethanol as positive control, 5μg/L DBP,
25μg/L DBP, and 45μg/L DBP. Five jars containing 10 eggs each were used in each treatment
group for the first trial. Both the positive control and the DBP groups showed dose-dependent
morphological abnormalities during development. In both trials, embryos with asymmetrical eyes and
missing eyes were observed in DBP groups. In addition, dose-dependent mortality and dose-dependent
developmental delays were observed. The percentage of dead embryos after 5 days of exposure ranged
from 35% to 100 %. DBP increases deaths, induces deformities, and delays development, indicating that
DBP poses an environmental hazard to developing fish.
Lydia Thurman
A Comparative Analysis of Foreign Aid to Latin America under Presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953-
1961) and John F. Kennedy (1961-1963)
(Mentors and Teachers: Timothy McKeown - UNC Chapel Hill; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: This paper analyzes the treatment of Latin America first under Dwight D. Eisenhower between
1953 and 1961, and then John F. Kennedy between 1961 and 1963. Using data compiled from
Congressional data sets, distinctions in the overall volume of aid to the region for the two individual
presidents are first examined, and then it looks at the proportion of aid to Latin America that is allocated
for military purposes and the different treatments of military aid between Eisenhower and Kennedy.
Following a statistical treatment of the two presidencies, the paper then discusses the qualitative
justifications for discrepancies and looks at whether the numbers match the historically accepted
qualitative distinctions between foreign aid under Eisenhower and foreign aid under Kennedy.
Christy Vaughan, Kevin Valakhuzy, Matt Jordan
Putting the Spark Back in the Electric Car: An Analysis of the Environmental, Economic, and Social
Impacts of Electric Car Usage
Abstract: We want to model the effects of electric vehicles. To do this, we found that electric vehicles
were more energy efficient than gasoline vehicles. However, with the current power grid, widespread
electric vehicle usage would be bad for the environment because coal is the largest source for electrical
energy. We want to model how to transition the current power grid to minimize the cost of each energy
source and to minimize pollution. In order to do this minimization, we need to know what proportion of
cars are electric for a given year. Microeconomic models allow us to see that a proportion of cars need
to be electric before electric vehicle usage will spread. Governments could jumpstart usage of electric
vehicles with incentive programs. Our microeconomic model allows us to determine how large these
incentive programs would need to be in order to make electric vehicle usage widespread. Our
macroeconomic model allows us to determine the cost of the new power grid. By combining these
models, we can see how much money should be spent on government incentive programs to minimize
total cost and pollution.
Kevin Valakuzhy
Sink-Float Analysis of the Binding of Streptavidinylated Microbeads and Biotinylated Gold

Nanoparticles
(Mentors and Teachers: Keely Glass - Duke Univ.; Jon Bennett -NCSSM)
Abstract: We seek to develop a quantifiable method to measure nanoparticle binding to fluorescent

polystyrene beads. Using sink-float analysis of beads bound to gold nanoparticles, we measured the
density shift of bead and gold nanoparticles complexes as a result of gold nanoparticle binding. Based
on Archimedes’ Principle, objects of higher or lower densities than the surrounding fluid will sink or
float, respectively. By measuring the amount of beads that sink in known densities of fluid, the isopycnic
point can be determined, and subsequently the density of the beads can be calculated. Since the density
of the bead is linearly proportional to the number of gold nanoparticles bound to the bead, the amount
of nanoparticle binding can then be quantified. Though initial trials seemed to contain substances
preventing the complexes from sinking at the expected density, SEM images show evidence of the
creation of bead-gold complexes and recent trials have indicated evidence of density correlated floating
and sinking. Further time will be spent analyzing possible corrections to the procedure that can be made
in order to ensure the concentration of gold nanoparticles can be determined using this assay.
Kyle Vey
Effect Of Centrifugal Forces On The Cell Density And Survival Rate In 3T3 Cells During Casting Of
Artificial Vascular Tissues
Abstract: A relatively new method of tissue engineering, centrifugal casting, was used to create vascular
tissue constructs. Centrifugal casting involves the use of centrifugal force in order to seed cells onto a
tissue scaffold. This experiment was designed to determine whether the rotational speed, thus the
centrifugal force, had any significant effect on the viability and density of cells in the construct. A
solution of thiol-modified hyaluronan acid (HA) and thiol-modified gelatin was mixed with a crosslinking
agent, polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA), which causes gelation to occur. When all of the
components of the hydrogel were mixed together, the viscous solution was placed in a test tube. The
tube was secured in a brass pipe attached to a variable speed motor with electronic rpm readout, and it
was spun at 2500 and 4000 rpm along the vertical axis (long axis) of the tube in order to create a
cylindrical construct. Then, another solution of the hydrogel components was mixed, this time
containing mouse 3T3 fibroblasts which were suspended in the HA and gelatin mixture before PEGDA
was added. The mixture was placed in the same tube. Once spun, a thin, densely packed cell layer
became present between two solid hydrogel layers. The cell density at the two rotational speeds was
calculated via histological sections of the tubes, while the survival rate of cells observed was calculated
by diluting a solution of the spun and then stained cells and observing them in a hemacytometer.
Results are currently pending.
Dylan West
The Feasibility of Microbial Larvicides for Malaria Control
(Mentors and Teachers: Randall Kramer, Adriane Lesser - Duke Univ.; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Malaria is a vector-borne disease caused by a parasite of the genus Plasmodium, transmitted
to humans through the bite of a mosquito. The annual death toll and the economic burden of malaria is
great, and the current status of malaria control is inadequate. Integrated vector management (IVM)
prevents a new and promising method of disease control by targeting the mosquito vector rather than
the disease itself or its symptoms. IVM combines many interventions, one of which is larval source
control, using microbial larvicides to kill mosquito larvae in aquatic breeding sites. This relatively new
intervention has not been successfully implemented in the modern age, and this project analyzes
reasons for past failures of larvicides. It makes several recommendations for the large-scale
implementation of larval source control in an effort to advise the Malaria Decision Analysis Support Tool
(MDAST), a project by the Duke Global Health Institute to advise malaria control policy in sub-Saharan
Africa.
Nakiya Whitfield
Understanding Antimicrobial Resistance
(Mentors and Teachers: Beth Mole, Scott Singleton - UNC Chapel Hill; John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Antibiotic resistance is an increasing problem in the world. Bacterial infections have always
been present in the world, but with the introduction of antibiotics, they are becoming more severe. This
is serving as a growing challenging problem to medicine and public health. The only way to combat this
is to avoid the use of unnecessary antimicrobial agents. From Sept 2010 to February 2011, I worked at
the Singleton Lab in the Eshelman School of Pharmacy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
During my research here, I focused on alternative methods to lessen the affects of antibiotic resistances
excluding using a greater concentration of antibiotics. This includes using compounds to aid the
antibiotics as they try to destroy dangerous microbials.
Kathryn Whalen
Assessing the Effects of Riparian Wetland Restoration on Anuran Populations in the North Carolina
Piedmont Using PVC Pipe Refugia
(Mentors and Teachers: Curtis Richardson - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: PVC pipes were established at three sites within the riparian wetlands in Duke Forest to act as
artificial refugia for tree frogs. By monitoring the species and population sizes of tree frogs found in
those pipes, we hoped to discover how the recent reconstruction efforts at two of those sites have
affected them. Frogs are often used as indicators of a reconstruction's success, because their life cycle
brings them into contact with both aquatic and terrestrial habitats and they therefore are very
susceptible to changes in the environment. The two sites were reconstructed using different methods
and hoped to see how each reconstruction method affected the tree frogs in that area.
Hoël Wiesner
Tea Party Nation: The Rebirth of the American Right
Abstract: For the last two years, the Tea Party has taken American politics by storm. Heavily mocked in
its early days by the media only to play a massive role in the midterm elections, the movement's rise
significantly affected how things worked on Capitol Hill. This presentation looks at the factors that made
the Tea Party so popular, so quickly, analyses its impact on the United States government, and tries to
predict how what will happen to the movement in the coming years.
Alice Williams
Common Characteristics of Banned Books
Abstract: I studied 10 of the top 100 most frequently banned/challenged books of the past decade, as
reported by the American Library Association. The books I studied are Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's
Stone, Of Mice and Men, Catcher in the Rye, Fahrenheit 451, And Tango Makes Three, Go Ask Alice, The
Giver, A Wrinkle in Time, Whale Talk, and The Handmaid's Tale. I qualitatively recorded characteristics
like offensive language, sexual content, and racial/sexist slurs that are frequently cited as reasons for
banning books. Additionally, I qualitatively summarized each book in an effort to find common
characteristics. I expected that books that are more frequently banned would have more of the
variables that I was looking for, but I found that there actually isn't a correlation and banned books don't
necessarily have much in common.
Shichao Wu
The Effect of hTRas012 Antisense Oligonucleotides on Telomerase Activity and Cell Viability in Cancer
Cells
(Mentors and Teachers: Michael Jarstfer, Joana Soares - UNC Chapel Hill; Amy Sheck - NCSSM)
Abstract: Telomerase is an enzyme that’s highly expressed in over 90% of human tumors. Telomerase
elongates telomeres, enabling cells to divide continuously and become immortal. Subsequently,
telomerase inhibition may become cancer’s silver bullet. Previous experiments showed that hTRas012
antisense oligonucleotides inhibited the formation and function of telomerase in vitro by binding to
complementary domains on the hTR component of telomerase. The purpose of this study was to
determine if introducing hTRas012 into cancerous cells would decrease telomerase activity and reduce
cell viability. K562 leukemia cells and SKOV3 ovarian carcinoma cells were transfected with hTRas012
and assayed for telomerase activity levels and cell viability using a TRAP Assay and an MTT Assay,
respectively. In K562 cells, results showed that hTRas012 had a minimal effect on telomerase activity
levels (20% inhibition at 1.0 μM) and telomerase protein levels. In SKOV3 cells, however, hTRas012
was highly effective at inhibiting telomerase activity; 1.0 μM of hTRas012 inhibited 85% of
telomerase activity. Additionally, hTRas012 drastically reduced cell viability; the viability of SKOV3 cells
treated with 1.0 μM of hTRas012 was reduced by 50%. In summary, hTRas012 significantly
inhibited telomerase activity and reduced viability in cancerous cells, therefore, antisense
oligonucleotides are highly promising agents for cancer treatment.
Anthony Wu
Teaching Old Receptors New Tricks: Redubbing G Protein-Coupled Receptors
(Mentors and Teachers: John Kirk - NCSSM)
Abstract: Background: Seven-transmembrane receptors (7TMRs), also called G protein-coupled

receptors (GPCRs), are the most common class of receptor, with more than 800 members of the class
identified in our genome. Of these, some are heavily involved in mood regulation, including dopamine
and serotonin receptors. Others proliferate in the immune system and all antihistamine allergy
medications target one GPCR or another. It logically follows that these receptors are the favored target
for much in the pharmacological field due to their widespread nature, and understanding their signaling
pathways is vital to fully utilizing them in the field of medicine.
Kexin Yin
Entrepreneurship Manual
(Mentors and Teachers: Will Mitchell - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: The entrepreneurship manual is created for entrepreneurs at a vocational school located in
Gulu, Uganda. This will be a trial and depending on how well the manual is received, it will be extended
to other areas in Uganda and hopefully throughout Africa. It educates on how to start a business and
what aspects are needed for a business to be successful. I expanded on the project and created a model
based on business in Durham, NC which could potentially be used in entrepreneur workshops later on in
this area. I created the Durham model after researching how one shop located on Ninth Street gained
the success that it now has.
Kun Yoon
Bioengineering HAP-GEL Nanocomposites with Adult Stem Cells for Bone Regeneration
(Mentors and Teachers: Ching-Chang Ko - UNC Chapel Hill)
Abstract: Severe bone defects beyond the “critical size” need biomaterial replacement and stem cells
for regeneration. The purpose of this study was to determine whether multipotent adult progenitor cells
(MAPC) can undergo bone differentiation and form a bone-like tissue in vitro when combined with Ti-
enriched HAP-GEL scaffolds. Ti-enriched HAP-GEL scaffolds were fabricated using biomimetic co-
precipitated hydroxyapatite nanocrystals in an aqueous gelatin solution. Using the CellTiter 96 Aqueous
One Solution assay and mineralization assay, number of viable cells at day 1 and 7 were determined and
to test the hypothesis that MAPCs were capable of differentiating into osteoblast cells if media was
supplemented by specific bone or osteogenic cues. The compressive strength tests showed that this
HAP-GEL scaffold can withstand loading and give more support for the cells to grow in desirable matrix.
Using MTS proliferation kit which stains viable cells orange/red, and then measuring color absorbancy at
490nm wavelength proved that more cells were proliferating on Ti-enriched HAPGEL scaffolds. Our
study shows that the materials help MAPCs to grow and differentiate into desirable bone-like cells on
the top of the materials.
Justin Yu
Developing a density based assay to quantify gold nanoparticle binding
(Mentors and Teachers: Benjamin Yellen - Duke Univ.)
Abstract: We used biotin coated gold nanoparticles synthesized in Dr. Ben Wiley's lab to coat
streptavidin coated fluorescent latex beads. This binding creates a density shift that we can measure
using a density based assay using sink-float analysis. We made several solutions of ferrofluid that we
added the beads to to observe their sinking or floating. When we find the point the density of the bead
equals the density of the fluid, we can calculate the average number of gold nanoparticles bonded to
each bead.
Helen Zhang
Toxicological assessment of Sodium Nitrate on Vibrio fischeri
Abstract: Vibrio Fischeri has long been used as a bioindicator because of its special bioluminescent
quorum sensing ability. When the population concentration of the bacteria is low, the cells do not
illuminate. However, when the population reaches a threshold, the bacteria cells sense the presence of
other cells in the surrounding environment and collectively start to glow. The use of the bacteria
includes assessing and monitoring toxicity of chemicals in the environment. The primary goal of the
research is to outline a practical and useful laboratory experiment for students to demonstrate this
important biological phenomenon.
Angela Zhang
Induction of Bacterial Aggregation by Human Milk Components: Implications for Mutualistic Bacterial
Growth in the Newborn Gut
(Mentors and Teachers: William Parker - Duke Univ.; Myra Halpin - NCSSM)
Abstract: Human breast milk is more than a nutrition source for newborns—it also strengthens immune
systems and prevents infection. Milk fosters the mutualistic relationship with enteric flora by promoting
the biofilm growth on gut epithelia, thus preventing pathogenic bacteria from infecting the host. Even
when secretory IgA, produced by the immune system, fails to aggregate the bacteria, the addition of
milk improves aggregation immensely. The objective of this study was to explore this mechanism of
aggregation and to determine the contributing components of milk, as well as to evaluate the
effectiveness of baby formulas at aggregation. Human milk was clarified and separated by molecular
weight. Growth and aggregation was also observed over an eight-hour period. Finally, baby formulas
were tested according to the same protocol. Results suggest that large molecules, such as proteins, are
heavily involved in aggregation, while small molecules simply promote growth. Time course experiments
verified aggregation rather that bacteriostasis. Baby formulas were discovered to only promote growth,
having no effect on aggregation. By improving our understanding of the contribution of human milk to
newborns’ relationship with resident flora, this research is of vital importance in safeguarding newborns
against infection.

2011 Research Symposium

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2011 Research Symposium

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NORTH CAROLINA SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS’

26th Annual Research Symposium

MAY 16, 2011

SpaceSleeper: An effective sleep solution for space and beyond

(Mentors and Teachers: Myra Halpin - NCSSM)

Krunal Amin, Aakash Gandhi, Gayatri Rathod

(Mentors and Teachers: Karen Glumm - NCSSM)

Michael Bai, Isaac Loh

Investigation of a Randomly Colored Chain

(Mentors and Teachers: Dan Teague - NCSSM)

The Effect of a High-fat Diet on Posttraumatic Arthritis after Intraarticular Fracture

(Mentors and Teachers: Steven Olson - DUMC ; John Kirk - NCSSM)

Michael Bai, Radhika Ghodasarah, Rani Patel

(Mentors and Teachers: Robert Gotwals - NCSSM )

(Mentors and Teachers: Stephen Horvath, Mark Leary - Duke Univ.)

An fMRI study of Cognition and Motivation in Adolescents

(Mentors and Teachers: Christine Rivera, Timothy Strauman - Duke Univ.)

(Mentors and Teachers: Myra Halpin - NCSSM)

Modification of Cotton Fabric for Oil Clean Up

(Mentors and Teachers: Myra Halpin - NCSSM)

Taylor Brown, Brittany Davis

The Portrayal of Young Women in Teen Magazines

(Mentors and Teachers: Karen Glumm - NCSSM)

The Use of Peptides as Adjuvants: Linking Adjuvant Activity to Cell Cytotoxicity

(Mentors and Teachers: Herman Staats, Afton Thompson - Duke Univ.)

Approximate Entropy Reveals the Effects of Ankle Bracing on Postural Stability

CABG Versus CABG + SVR: Predicting the Best Survival

(Mentors and Teachers: Robert Jones - Duke Clinical Research Institution)

Volume Measurement for Microfluidics Biochips using Capacitance Sensing Circuits

Dustin Cocklereece, Oluwatosin Omofoye

(Mentors and Teachers: John Morrison - NCSSM)

Rainwater Collection System Automated Emptying Device

Peitong Duan, Matt Jordan, Monica Poletti, Christy Vaughn

Mean Field Analysis for Cellular Automata

Appalachian Music Through the Great Depression

(Mentors and Teachers: Karen Glumm - NCSSM)

Localization of crasiRNA on Macropus eugenii (tammar wallaby) chromosomes

Content Bias in ABC, CBS, and NBC Nightly News Programs

(Mentors and Teachers: Linda Schmalbeck - NCSSM)

Katrina Gutierrez, Greeshma Samashekar, Ada Taylor

MedPAL: Protect Another Life

Association between Anxiety and Atrial Fibrillation Symptom Severity

Pranav Haravu, Vipul Vacharajani

A study on the photocatalytic disinfectant effect of annealed, anodized, and substrate-embedded

(Mentors and Teachers: Myra Halpin - NCSSM)

Effect of Syncopation on One's Perception of Time

(Mentors and Teachers: Kevin Labar - Duke Univ.)

Abstract: Syncopation is a temporal deviation from an isochronous tone. The processing of a

(Mentors and Teachers: Linda Schmalbeck - NCSSM)

Effects of dietary zinc on TGF-beta and cell-mediated immunity

(Mentors and Teachers: Amy Sheck - NCSSM)

(Mentors and Teachers: Myra Halpin - NCSSM)

Modern web programming: techniques for a more accessible web

(Mentors and Teachers: Gary Bishop - UNC Chapel Hill)

Lillian Kang, Sangeetha Kumar, Kali Xu

Abstract: Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease that is regulated by a variety of inflammatory pathways

(Mentors and Teachers: Jonathan Bennett - NCSSM)

Abstract: Identification of lightning discharges as either cloud-to-ground or intracloud discharges based

(Mentors and Teachers: Yong-hui Jiang, Yoonji Lee - Duke Univ.)

SNP detection in Amboseli baboons

(Mentors and Teachers: Susan Alberts, Jeff Stroud - Duke Univ.)

(Mentors and Teachers: Amy Joh - Child Learning Lab)

(Mentors and Teachers: William Parker - Duke Univ.)