Poster Session #1 - Washburn Room
A
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
#37 Mathematicians of Yore: Controversy,
Fame, & Genius (Part 1)
Jenny Banks, Tammy Conley, Fred Hollingshead,
Cory Kramer, Michael Roe, Joe Marie Rozzelle
Advisor: Dr. Pat Mower, Mathematics and Statistics
The history of mathematics is steeped in controversy and debate.
Famous and infamous mathematicians invented or discovered (depending
on your stance on mathematical creativity) elegant and complex
concepts. Many of these creations were based on earlier work
and often debate arose regarding the actual inventor or discoverer.
The students will portray their characters (in costume and in
verbal exchanges with the persons who stop to view their posters),
and make their cases for the creations in debate.
#25 Enterococci in Public Places
Jon Benson; Advisor: Dr. Ron Ash, Biology
Enterococci, normal inhabitants of the gastrointestinal tract,
are recognized as important bacterial pathogens. Antibiotic-resistant
enterococci represent an important clinical challenge. The present
study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of such enterococci
in public restrooms. Samples from toilet seats were taken at
locations frequented by the public, e.g., shopping malls, libraries,
restaurants, highway rest stops, and university buildings. Swabs
moistened in LB medium were used for sampling. The isolates were
collected on bile esculin azide agar plates. Colonies showing
a blackening of the medium were verified as enterococci by specific
tests. Samples were collected at 35 different sites and 260 individual
seats were sampled. Enterococci were detected on 20% of the seats.
The number of bacteria resistant to clinically useful antibiotics
was only 11%. The results suggest that enterococci in public
places do not pose a significant public health threat.
#13 Ovarian Fluorescent Patterns and Changes During Germ Cell
Maturation in Drosophila Melanogaster
Michelle Blume; Advisor: Dr.
Tom Wolf, Biology
Our laboratory has been conducting studies on the natural fluorescent
patterns occurring in Drosophila melanogaster. These patterns
are found in the facial, genital, and abdominal regions. This
study is focused on ovarian fluorescence and the changes that
occur during germ cell maturation. The fluorescent patterns differ
between mature and immature females with the former exhibiting
more fluorescence. And patterns also appear to differ among females
that are cultured with a group of other females and those females
that are isolated. This study was conducted to compare the quantitative
fluorescent patterns among these individual groups. One aspect
of this study was to determine the cytological source of the
fluorescence. Image analysis revealed that the fluorescence was
most concentrated in the oocyte. Gel electrophoresis analysis
was done to determine the chemical basis of the fluorescence.
A molecule naturally occurring in Drosophila melanogaster that
has been shown to cause natural fluorescence, 20-hydroxyecdysone,
was investigated as a possible source of the ovarian fluorescence.
Yolk proteins were also investigated as a contributing source
to the fluorescence.
Return to Links
#36 A Potential Role of Fluorescent Facial Patterns in Mate
Choice of D. Melanogaster From Evolution Canyon
Michelle Brady; Advisor: Dr. Tom Wolf, Biology
Our laboratory has been investigating the role of naturally
occurring fluorescent patterns in D. melanogaster. These patterns
are brighter in males. Previous work from our laboratory on flies
from Evolution Canyon, Israel, has shown a correlation between
the intensity of the facial patterns and mating success. Flies
on the same side of the canyon have similar pattern intensities.
Pattern intensities differ not only in populations from opposite
sides of the canyon, but within same side populations. Mate choice
has also been shown to be preferentially influenced by geography
(same side of the canyon), as well as within the specific subpopulations.
This study was done to determine if these mating differences
could be linked to changes in the facial fluorescent patterns
in the flies from opposite sides of the canyon. The poster will
present results of facial pattern differences that appear when
high/low intensity pattern populations from the same side and
opposite sides of the canyon are mated. Analysis of fluorescent
intensity data are shown along with photographs of these patterns.
#27 Proximate and Ultimate Explanations of Paternal Infant Care
in Cotton-Top Tamarins (Saguinus Oedipus)
Angela Burrell; Advisor: Dr.
Joanne Altman, Psychology
Cotton-Top tamarins are very unusual among primates in their
paternal infant caregiving. While most primate infants are tended
by their mothers, tamarins are raised primarily by their fathers.
This presentation discusses the hormonal (proximate) and evolutionary
(ultimate) explanations for this unusual primate pattern.
#17 The Effects of Pregnancy on the Behaviors of Female Orangutans
In Captivity
Beverly A. Fox; Advisor: Dr.
Joanne Altman, Psychology
This study examined the effects of pregnancy on social interactions
of orangutans in captivity using a scan sampling technique. The
behaviors of a pregnant orangutan and another orangutan were
recorded as well as another group of orangutans that did not
include a pregnant female. The female orangutans were observed
engaging in social interactions a greater percent of the intervals
compared to the group that did not have a pregnant female orangutan
present.
#3 Battles of Medusa - Are we dealing with domestic violence?
Julie Gibbs; Advisor: Dr.
Edward Navone, Art
Battles of Medusa is a sculpture dealing with domestic violence
and the way our culture deals with it. Much of the statistical
information about domestic abuse was gleaned from crime statistics
and government sponsored web sites. During the construction of
the sculpture, I did plaster mold construction, researched clay
bodies, learned to weld, did sheet metal construction and used
various air tools. I also utilized documentary photography, darkroom
techniques, scale techniques for drawing and printmaking methods
for applying the images to the armature.
Return
to Links
#33 Effects of leaf extracts of elephant
bush (Portulacaria: Portulacaceae) on brine shrimp, bacterial,
and fungal cultures
Carolyn Hahn; Advisor: Dr.
Vic Landrum, Biology and Dr. Sam
Leung,
Chemistry
Elephant bush leaves are an important herbal source of native
medicines in southern Africa, but little is known of the compounds
contained in these leaves. Leaf extracts were chemically isolated
to obtain potentially active biological compounds, and were tested
on brine shrimp, bacterial, and fungal cultures for toxicity
levels. Several compounds were toxic, but lack of leaf material
prevented any structural analysis.
#21 Extraction and Partial Characterization of Freshwater Green-Algae
Proteome
Rachel Halpin; Advisor: Dr.
Janice Barton, Chemistry
In the present study, extracting and concentrating methods were
refined in order to deliver maximum protein concentrations for
two species of filamentous, freshwater green-algae. Non-continuous
SDS PAGE followed by the use of Coomassie Blue R revealed several
protein bands. When gels of the unidentified filamentous green-algae
were scanned and digitized (using UNSCAN-IT software), seven
proteins were found which ranged in molecular mass from 36 to
68 kD.
#1 Auditory Trajectory Perception
Megan Houk; Advisor: Dr.
Michael Russell, Psychology
The ability of sighted but blindfolded observers to judge the
trajectory of a sound source was determined in the present study.
Of interest was whether humans, when relying solely on sound,
are capable of detecting the direction of a moving sound source.
For example, are humans able to correctly judge when an object
is coming straight at them? The sound used in this study was
a steel wheel rolling down an aluminum ramp. The participant=s
task was to determine if the sound source (i.e., the wheel) would
pass by their right, left, or would contact them. The effect
of the direction or angle of the ramp (relative to the point
of observation), the position of the observer, and the influence
of pre-trial sounds were each examined. The present study is
expected to increase our understanding of how moving sounds are
perceived and our knowledge of auditory perception in general.
Return
to Links
#9 Initial Syntheses and 1H NMR Analyses of 2,2=-Bipyridyl Cobalt(III)
Complexes
Zeb Kramer; Advisor: Dr.
Shaun Schmidt, Chemistry
The effect that transition metal coordination has on organic
ligands can be studied by cataloging and examining the chemical
shift in one and two dimensional 1H and 13C NMR spectra of several
simple organic molecules complexed with diamagnetic Co3+. In
the initial stages of this study, standard methods used to synthesize
Co3+ complexes with 2,2=-bipyridine (bipy): [Co(bipy)2CO3]Cl 4H2O,
[Co(bipy)2C2O4]X (where X = Cl-, NO3-, SO42-, I-, and Acetate),
and [Co(bipy)2I2]I. Attempts to isolate [Co(bipy)2Cl2]Cl were
unsuccessful; this may be due to incomplete or competing reactions
such as aquation. The complex [Co(bipy)2C2O4]X has limited solubility
in various common solvents, which will cause difficulty in the
NMR analysis. IR Spectroscopy was used to further characterize
[Co(bipy)2C2O4]X, [Co(bipy)2CO3]Cl 4H2O, and [Co(bipy)2I2]I.
NMR and UV-Vis spectroscopy was performed on [Co(bipy)2CO3]Cl 4H2O.
In addition, NMR spectroscopy was performed on [Co(bipy)3]ClO4.
More spectroscopic and synthetic work remains before any conclusions
can be drawn from the NMR analyses. This research was supported
by a Small Research Grant from Washburn University.
#4 Apeiron Logo
Monette Mark-Carruth; Advisor: Dr.
Glenda Taylor, Art
Creation of the Apeiron logo began with research
about the word. The word "Apeiron" is used in several different
disciplines but most prominently in philosophy and mathematics.
Mathematicians struggle to find a balance with the infinite,
unbounded απειρον (apeiron)
from the Greeks, with the equation Σ∞n-12-n =1. Using
symbols, the Lemniscate and Greek letters that make up the word
apeiron, different designs began to come together to form the
logo for this Apeiron Forum.
#35 Factors Affecting the Perceived Spaciousness of Rooms
Kathryn Maxwell; Advisor: Dr.
Michael Russell, Psychology
The present study investigated individual perception
of the spaciousness of rooms. Participants viewed seven rooms
of various sizes and then judged each room on a scale of 0 (not
spacious) to 10 (highly spacious). The influence of the point-of-view,
room size, presence of a change in wall texture, and the presence
of a fixture were each independently investigated with regard
to spaciousness perception. Spaciousness judgments were found
to be affected by room size, viewpoint, and change in wall texture.
Contrary to what would be commonly expected, the presence or
absence of room clutter had no appreciable effect on observer's
judgments of spaciousness. The study hopes to contribute a better
understanding towards the development and structure of rooms
so that maximum spaciousness and, thus, maximum productivity
will be achieved.
Return
to Links
#29 Finding Solace in Series
Jan Polsley; Advisor: Dr.
Kevin Charlwood, Mathematics and Statistics
Finding Solace in Series will be a presentation covering several
properties of a "sub-series" of the Maclaurin expansion of e^x
obtained by taking the terms of the form x^(k^2)/(k^2)! for non-negative
integers k. By using several theorems the presentation will entail
looking at the interval of convergence of the series, the first
derivative, the second derivative, and the integral of the series.
Other properties that are explored are the intercepts of the
series, the first derivative, and the second derivative. Extremes
and inflection points will be looked at for the three graphs
as well.
#32 Effects of Stem Extracts of the Elephant Bush (Portulacaria
afra; Portulacacae) on Brine Shrimp, Bacterial, and Fungal Cultures
Jay Reed; Advisor: Dr.
Sam Leung, Chemistry and Dr. Vic
Landrum,
Biology
The elephant bush (Portulacaria afra; Portulacacae), a native
of southern Africa, has adapted to harsh xeric conditions by
evolving stem and leaf succulence and anti-herbivory compounds.
To test for potential anti-tumor compounds stem extracts were
isolated using column chromatography and tested in brine shrimp,
bacterial, and fungal bioassays. Certain fractions from stem
extracts were found to possess compounds that were lethal to
brine shrimp cultures at low concentrations; however, no extracts
were found to be effective against bacterial (E. coli) and fungal
(Asperigillus nigra) cultures.
#7 Auditory Perception of Passage
Amy Schneider; Advisor: Michael
Russell, Psychology
It has been shown that sound location is judged more accurately
if observers are permitted to move during broadcast than if stationary.
In this study, participants, from various positions, reported
whether or not they would collide with a sound source if they
had walked forward. The importance of observer movement and the
position of loudspeaker and observer are discussed.
#23 The Effect of Sex and Color on One's Ability to Interpret
Facial Expressions
Lori Sharon; Advisor: Dr.
Joanne Altman, Psychology
This study examined one's ability to interpret facial expressions.
Traditionally, women are better at recognizing expressions than
men; particularly expressions of negative emotions. This study
investigated whether colors, which are tied to emotions, can
facilitate (when congruent with color) or inhibit (when incongruent
with color) men’s and women's interpretation of expressions.
Return
to Links
#31 Inscape - Washburn's Literary Magazine
Greg Swart and Joshua
Falleaf, Advisor: Amy Fleury, English
Inscape, Washburn University's literary arts magazine, features
fiction, poetry, essays, and photography by students, faculty,
staff, and members of the surrounding community. The magazine,
edited by English writing emphasis students, is in its 28th edition
in 2003.
#5 Personality Type and the Accuracy in the Recognition of Facial
Expressions
Sara B. Thomas; Advisor: Dr.
Pam MacDonald, Psychology
The ability to decipher facial expressions is vital for the
survival of the human species. Humans interact with one another
constantly and have a general need to understand one another.
With the lift of an eyebrow, or a twitch of an eye, a person
can tell so much about what they need or how they are feeling.
As early as infancy, humans are already able to distinguish some
facial expressions, and will only fine tune this skill as time
progresses. After infancy, further development of the brain enables
women and men to interpret facial expressions differently. It
has been shown that women can distinguish facial expressions
better than men, and it seems to be an evolutionary trend. The
present study examined if femininity in both women and men was
the factor in distinguishing facial expressions. Using the BEM
Sex Role Inventory (BSRI), men and women could be put into categories
of femininity or masculinity based on their answers. They were
then asked to rate facial expressions with the Ekman and Friesen=s
(1975) AUnmasking the Face@. Putting these two things together,
we were able to determine what impact femininity had on deciphering
facial expressions.
#19 Survey of Kansas Voter Awareness Prior to 2002 Election
Kacie Wessel; Advisor: Dr.
Steve Cann, Political Science
This was a survey of 58 randomly selected citizens to assess
issue and candidate awareness as the dependent variable. Various
background variables were used as independent variables. The
results indicate that a history of voting in past elections was
highly associated with candidate familiarity and those without
a voting history were not familiar with the candidates. Propensity
to pay attention to news coverage, to be registered to vote and
high socioeconomic status were associated with issue familiarity.
Return to Links
Poster Session #2 - Washburn Room A
3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
#14 Auditory Perception of Motion
Kathy Bullard; Advisor: Dr.
Michael Russell, Psychology
This is study is concerned with the ability of participants
to determine if a sound source is either moving or stationary.
Various natural sounds were recorded into a computer. For each
sound, the sound-producing object either approached, retreated,
or was stationary with regard to the recording device. The task
of each participant was to determine whether the sound source
was stationary or moving. If moving, the participant must also
report whether it appeared to be approaching or withdrawing.
Successes were determined by the number of times a participant
accurately judged the direction of motion or the nonmotion of
the sound source. Discussion is given to the influence of the
particular sound heard, the direction of motion (or lack of motion),
and the degree of change in the sound signal.
#26 The Effects of College Student Living Arrangements on Student
Involvement in Campus Activities
Nicole Craver; Advisor: Dr. Joanne Altman, Psychology
This study rated student involvement in campus activities as
a function of living arrangements (on versus off campus living).
Student volunteers were administered the College Student Experiences
Questionnaire which was used to indicate involvement. It was
hypothesized that students living on campus would be more involved
than students living off.
#37 Mathematicians of Yore: Controversy,
Fame, & Genius (Part 2)
Mary Feltner, Inshin Kim, Cory Kramer, David Sloop, Chad Thompson
Advisor: Dr. Pat Mower, Mathematics and Statistics
The history of mathematics is steeped in controversy and debate.
Famous and infamous mathematicians invented or discovered (depending
on your stance on mathematical creativity) elegant and complex
concepts. Many of these creations were based on earlier work
and often debate arose regarding the actual inventor or discoverer.
The students will portray their characters (in costume and in
verbal exchanges with the persons who stop to view their posters),
and make their cases for the creations in debate.
Return
to Links
#1 Mural project for the courtyard between
the Student Union and the "Commons" of the Living
Learning Center
Maria Guzman, Judith Wade, Kye Suk Field; Advisor: Dr.
Edward Navone, Art
This project involved the development of a mural to be placed
in the courtyard between the Student Union and the "Commons" of
the Living Learning Center. It is the collaborative effort of
three students - Maria Guzman, Judith Wade and Kye Suk Field.
Their ideas include the following concepts: the student experience
in relation to the worlds of nature, thought and human experience
- in other words, what a university is. It involved not only
the creative work but the special challenges related to the building
and materials and techniques to be used.
#34 Effects of Drag and Lift on a Golf Ball
Sarah Harrington; Advisor: Dr.
Kevin Charlwood, Mathematics and
Statistics
I am using a mathematics program called Maple to simulate the
effects of nonlinear lift and drag forces on a golf ball as a
projectile. Newton=s law of damping was used to derive differential
equations that describe the motion of the golf ball with lift
and drag on a y-z plane. The drag coefficients and launch angles
were changed to observe how accurate the model is and compared
with published data. Plots of the data will be shown with and
without the effects of lift and drag so that they can be compared
and can be seen by the viewer.
#18 Effects of Irrelevant Information on Mediator Decisions
Kristen Hinrichsen; Advisor: Dr.
Michael Russell, Psychology
To determine the extent to which emotion affects decision making,
participants in the present study were provided with a fictional
story about a land dispute between two farmers. The task of the
participant was to decide whether to find exclusively in favor
of farmer A or B. Participants were assigned to one of five conditions.
In four of the conditions, there existed a single sentence that
contained irrelevant but emotionally affective information. In
the fifth (control) condition, the irrelevant information was
absent. After reading the story, participants were allowed ten
minutes to reach a decision. Following the deliberation period,
participants noted their decision and then completed a brief
questionnaire. The influence of irrelevant information on the
time to reach a decision and the factor(s) affecting their decision
was determined. This study will give insight into how emotion
may make mediators unjustifiably biased in their decision.
Return
to Links
#22 Using Degenerate Polymerase Chain
Reaction to Identify the Putative Telomerase Gene(s) in the
Free-Living Amoeba Genus, Naegleria
Daniel J. Hulse; Advisor: Dr.
John Mullican, Biology
This is the first attempt to identify the gene(s) responsible
for telomere maintenance in the protozoan genus Naegleria. Naegleria
spp. are free-living amoebae that are ubiquitous in nature on
every continent. As unicellular organisms, we hypothesize that
during DNA replication these cells maintain a constant telomere
length by utilizing a telomerase-mediated maintenance system.
Known telomerase protein sequences were obtained from various
public databases and aligned using the PILEUP alignment program.
Primers were designed from two highly conserved protein motifs.
Degenerate PCR amplification of Naegleria genomic DNA produced
several distinct DNA products under 1000 bp in length, each of
which are likely telomerase candidates based on their size. These
results suggest that Naegleria amoebae contain either telomerase
or telomerase-like sequences and that these amino acid sequences
are fairly well conserved. Cloning and sequence analysis of these
amplified products will be performed to determine their relatedness
to known telomerase sequences.
#8 Sulfadiazine-Resistant Bacteria in Natural Water Sources
Jamey Iverson; Advisor: Dr.
Ron Ash, Biology
Sulfa drugs have been used as antibacterial agents since 1935.
This continuous use has resulted in the selection of resistant
organisms. Despite this fact, the sulfa drugs are still clinically
relevant compounds, especially when administered with other agents.
The present study was undertaken to evaluate the prevalence and
properties of sulfa-resistant bacteria in the environment. Water
samples were collected from seven U.S. rivers. Sulfa-resistant
isolates were evaluated for resistance to other antibacterial
drugs, the presence of plasmids (extrachromosomal DNA), and integron
sequences. Over 80% of the sulfa-resistant bacteria were resistant
to other antibiotics. Plasmids were found in 40% of the isolates
and integron sequences were identified on 40% of the plasmids.
These results suggest that sulfa-resistant bacteria with the
capability of transferring resistance traits to other bacteria
are abundant in natural water sources.
#16 Oxidation Of α-Methylpyrroles
and Dipyrromethanes Using Sodium Bismuthate: Preliminary Results
Danson Kamunyu; Advisor: Dr.
Sam Leung, Chemistry
Sodium bismuthate was investigated as an alternative reagent
for oxidizing α-methylpyrroles and dipyrromethanes to their
corresponding carbonyl compounds. The reactions were carried
out with sodium bismuthate in the presence of acetone, water,
and/or acid catalyst. In some cases, the oxidation was successful
though with side products.
Return
to Links
#15 Fluorescent Facial Patterns Due to Interactions Between
Cuticular Tissue and Brain Autofluorescence in D. Melanogaster
Danson Kamunyu; Advisor: Dr.
Tom Wolf, Biology
Our laboratory has been investigating the role of naturally
occurring fluorescent patterns in D. melanogaster. The facial
fluorescent patterns appear to be species specific. These patterns
are more intense in males and may play a role in mating behavior.
The source of this fluorescence is unknown. Our first hypothesis
was that the cuticle itself was the source of fluorescence. However,
when the cuticle was removed and observed under ultra-violet
(UV) alone, it did not fluoresce. D. melanogaster brains were
isolated and exposed to UV light. There was an equal distribution
of fluorescence. We hypothesized that the facial patterns of
fluorescence are due to interaction between cuticular tissue
and neuronal autofluorescence. Mutations that cause changes in
the cuticle alter facial fluorescence patterns in the same species.
However, fluorescence of isolated brain is not changed. These
data support our hypothesis that facial patterns are due to the
interaction between cuticular tissue and brain autofluorescence.
Return
to Links
#20 Response Choices and Perception of a Moving Sound Source
Mirna Loya; Advisor: Dr. Michael Russell, Psychology
Trajectory perception using sound was investigated. The position
of the sound source varied and its effect on perceptual accuracy
was determined. Forty individuals participated in the study.
On each trial, a steel wheel was rolled down an aluminum track.
The interaction between the wheel and the ramp served as the
auditory stimulus for the present study. A change in the trajectory
of the sound was found to affect observer perception. Interestingly,
it was revealed that a slight change in the instructions provided
to participants resulted in a dramatic change in the reports
of observers. The importance of response task and the ability
of sighted but blindfolded observers to judge the direction of
a moving sound are discussed.
#24 Birth Order and Interpersonal Relationships
Carie Pierpoint; Advisor: Dr. Michael Russell, Psychology
Birth order has been suggested as a causal influence on interpersonal
relationships and personality since the 1920=s. The present literature
review considers not only birth order but also the additional
variable of gender and types of characteristics of interpersonal
relationships (e.g., discipline, attention, cooperation, and
conflict). Most of the research reviewed showed little or no
influence of birth order. Only in the levels of cooperation within
sibling-child relationships was there a significant relationship
with birth order. Other variables have stronger influences on
interpersonal behavior than birth order.
Return
to Links
#10 Differences in Recall of Emotional Words as a Function of
Handedness
Tulora Roeckers; Advisor: Dr. Joanne Altman, Psychology
This study examines the differences in recall of emotional (positive
and negative) and non-emotional words in relation to visual field,
word content and handedness. Findings explore the validity of
valence and right hemisphere models for emotion as well as the
right hemisphere=s relationship to arousal and attentional processes.
#6 Isolation of Fluorescent Molecules in Drosophila Melanogaster
Rachel Schuette; Advisor: Dr.
Stephen Angel, Chemistry and Dr.
Tom Wolf, Biology
Thin layer and column chromatography as well as spectroscopic
techniques are used to characterize fluorescent molecules in
Drosophila melanogaster. Distinctions are observed as a function
of sex, age and anatomical source including the head, gonads,
digestive tract and exoskeleton regions. In addition, 20-hydroxyecdysone
is used as a standard in comparisons with extracts from the fly,
with the hypothesis that ecdysteroids are major contributors
to the fly=s fluorescence as observed by the Washburn University
Drosophila Research Group.
Return
to Links
#12 Strategies Toward the Economical Synthesis of Cyclen and
Cyclam: Methodology for the BAlkylation of Cyclic Urea
Joy Spicer; Advisor: Dr. Shaun Schmidt, Chemistry
Tethered dimers of cyclen and cyclam are entry inhibitors for
human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV). They have offered
a powerful resource in anti-retroviral therapy, creating a need
for the cost effective synthesis of the pre-cursor tetraazamacrocycles.
The investigated synthetic strategy incorporates the use of cyclic
urea as a form of protection of the amines towards over alkylation.
Other strategies have incorporated the use of protecting groups
to control the reactivity of the substrates, but their choice
of using the Richman and Adkins approach adds multiple, moderately
yielding steps. Cyclization of two 2-imidazolidone and two 1,2-dibromoethane
was attempted to form the bis-cyclic urea analog of cyclen. Due
to the formation of side products, a model study was undertaken
to investigate the bis-N,N=-alkylation of cyclic urea. Initial
use of 1-bromobutane and 2-imidazolidone formed both mono-N-butylated-2-imidizolidone
and bis-N,N=-butylated-2-imidizolidone indicating the cyclic
urea could be used as a form of protection of amines towards
over alkylation. This research was supported by a scholarship
grant from the KBRIN program of NIH.
#28 Velocity Judgments of Cars
Dorothy Suter; Advisor: Dr. Michael Russell, Psychology
It has long been known that the phrasing of a question can influence
an individual=s recollection or perception of an event. However,
these studies have involved the perception of events separate
from oneself. The present study examined whether the wording
or phrasing of a question affects passenger perception of car
velocity. Judgments of car velocity were considered with respect
to the actual velocity of the car and the wording of the question.
It is hoped that the present study will allow us to better understand
the perception of witnesses.
#30 Effects of carbonated drinks on blood lactic acid concentrations
Chelle Vale; Advisor: Drs. Paul and Tracy
Wagner, Biology
Athletes have long discussed the effects drinking carbonated
beverages would have on their performance. Anecdotal evidence
states that drinking carbonated drinks will have a deleterious
effect on athletic performance. Since there is no scientific
data available, we decided to test the effects of carbonation
on the changes of lactic acid (a measure of physical fitness)
in response to exercise. We will examine male subjects= lactic
acid levels before and during recovery from exercising to fatigue.
Subjects will drink a carbonated (experimental) or non-carbonated
(control) drink just before the start of exercise, and the results
of these two experimental conditions will be compared.
Return
to Links
#2 Creating Encryption Software using Binary
Justin Watts; Advisor: Dr. Gary Schmidt, Computer Information
Science
Encryption software is not new but developing encryption software
can be a tremendous learning experience for the beginning student.
This project utilized algorithms that, while not unique, demand
a great deal of intuitive logic and creativity. This project
will demonstrate successfully converting text to binary encrypted
code and decoding the encrypted code back to text.
Oral Presentation Session #1 - Vogel Room
2:00
p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
The Effects of Symmetry and Hair Length on Perceptions of Attractiveness
and Age
Tulora Roeckers; Advisor: Dr. Joanne
Altman, Psychology
This study examined the effects of evolutionary cues (symmetry)
versus cultural cues (hair length) on perceptions of attractiveness.
Participants rated long- and short-haired, symmetrical and asymmetrical
faces. Long-haired women received higher ratings of attractiveness
than short-haired women, and symmetry was preferred in short-haired
women.
2:20 p.m. – 2:35 p.m.
Fluorescent patterning in the external genitalia of Drosophila
A comparison between D. melanogaster, D. simulans, and D. virilis
Joy Spicer; Advisor: Dr. Tom Wolf, Biology
We have observed that ultra-violet (UV) light exposure in the
genital region of the fly produces a strong phototactic response,
which includes opening of genital apertures in both males and
females. This phototactic response occurs even though the head
region is shielded from the UV light. Because the visual receptors
in the head region of the fly are not exposed, this leads to
the supposition that there are UV photoreceptors in the genital
area. A photographic database allowing comparison of the fluorescence
patterning in the genitalia of several different geographic populations
of D. melanogaster has been developed. Data has been incorporated
to provide a species ingroup (D. simulans) and outgroup (D. virilis)
evaluation of evolutionary relationships. In addition, photographic
studies of D. melanogaster virgin versus mated and varying ages
have been done. Additional work in our laboratory has demonstrated
the presence of naturally occurring fluorescent patterns in the
head of Drosophila, as well as fluorescence in the abdomen and
reproductive tracts. Our hypothesis is that fluorescent patterning
influences mate choice and mating behavior.
Return
to Links
2:40 p.m. – 2:55 p.m.
Paranormal and Supernatural Experiences: Possible Links to Coping,
Locus of Control, and Religious Orientation
Kimberly (Katie) Young-Spencer; Advisor: Dr.
Joanne Altman, Psychology
Little research has been done on the relationships
between an individual's experience of the paranormal/supernatural
and other psychological characteristics. The purpose of this
study is to determine if a relationship exists among the experience
of paranormal/supernatural activities, religiosity, locus of
control, and coping styles. This study hypothesized that those
individuals who are more likely to experience paranormal/supernatural
activity are less religious and have an extrinsic (versus intrinsic)
religious orientation, external locus of control, and poor
coping styles compared to individuals who experience less paranormal/supernatural
activity. Participants were administered the Internal-External
Control Scale, Coping With Stress Scale, Religious Orientation
Scale, and asked about their personal experiences with the
paranormal/supernatural to determine possible correlations.
One significant difference was found. Those who had paranormal/supernatural
experiences did have a more external locus of control.
Oral
Presentation Session #1 - Kansas Room
2:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
Rousseau the Critic
Holly Haake; Advisor: Dr. David A. Freeman, Political Science
Jean-Jacques Rousseau was an influential political writer, and
the hallmark of his work was his critique of society; which evolved
into a doctrine of liberation. His theories embraced concepts
of autonomy and democracy, which exemplified his creation of
the "General Will". Rousseau's theories are still relevant
today; worldwide in different events and political movements."
Return
to Links
2:20 p.m. – 2:35 p.m.
The Fool in Twelfth Night:The Wisest of them All
Heather Hooper; Advisor: Dr. Maureen Godman, English
In Twelfth Night, Shakespeare elevates the role of the fool
to that of a sage. He is given a measure of morality and wisdom
above his counterparts in other plays and more notably above
the other characters in the play. Here Feste the fool is used
as a "comic mediator" who uses his position and his
wit to expose the foibles of the principal characters. In this
play, Shakespeare proves that the fool is actually the wisest
of them all.
2:40 p.m. – 2:55 p.m.
Donne's Conversion: Authentic but Unresolved
Adam Sales; Advisor: Dr. Maureen Godman, English
John Donne was born and raised a Catholic
during a time when Catholics were under pressure to convert
to Anglicanism. Eventually, he did convert, but we may never
know which church he believed to be the "true Church." Some
view his conversion as politically motivated. Others have suggested
that his conversion was authentic, and that after his conversion
he never questioned the legitimacy of the Anglican Church.
I think Donne's conversion was authentic, but I also believe
that even after his ordination he did not completely resolve
the question. His Satyre III and Holy Sonnet 18 demonstrate
that Donne questioned which church was "true" both
before and after his ordination.
Return to Links
Oral Presentation Session
#2 - Vogel Room
3:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
The Effects of Overscheduling on Children
Jessica Otto; Advisor: Dr. Pam MacDonald, Psychology
Researchers claim extracurricular activities help children with
social skills and higher academic achievement. However, many
believe overscheduling children has negative effects on stress,
anxiety, and sleep. Thirty children from a child care center
filled out a surveys. The regression analysis revealed higher
scores on somatic scales among children who are overscheduled.
3:35 p.m. – 3:50 p.m.
A Study of Concurrency and Data Corruption in J2EE Web Application
Brian Mulanda; Advisor: Dr. Bruce Mechtly, CIS
In a web application, each user session is a separate thread
of execution. Multithreaded applications have a potential for
corruption of shared data. However, threads can be synchronized
to prevent such corruption. We wrote a number of programs to
study data corruption and the behavior of threads. Considering
both Java Servlets and Java Server Pages, we explored right and
wrong ways to synchronize threads in a web application. While
we are aware of numerous discussions of concurrency in textbooks,
we know of no programs that demonstrate them with web applications.
3:55 p.m. – 4:10 p.m.
Social Effects on Academic Performance in Men and Women
Angela Burrell; Advisor: Dr. Pam MacDonald, Psychology
The relationship between loneliness, social support, and academic
achievement were investigated. Sex differences were also examined.
One hundred twenty-five students completed self-report measures
of social support and loneliness. Males were more socially isolated
than females.
Return
to Links
Oral Presentation Session #2 - Kansas Room
3:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
An Introduction to Edgar Wolfe's Widow Man
Gary Jackson and Israel Wasserstein; Advisor: Dr.
Tom Averill,
English
An in-depth exploration/introduction to the themes found in
Edgar Wolfe=s novel, Widow Man, and an examination of the time
the novel was written and what effect/counter-effect Widow Man
produces in response to the time it was written.
3:35 p.m. – 3:50 p.m.
Iconographic Paradigms in Literature
Albert Glassburn; Advisor: Dr. Mary Sheldon, English
This research project intends to demonstrate a grasp of icons
and their significance. I intend to explore the meaning of icons,
how they are made, used, and honored by others. The project also
aims to demonstrate how icons have penetrated other mediums of
art, most particularly in literature.
3:55 p.m. – 4:10 p.m.
Encounters*
Gary Jackson; Advisor: Dr.
Margy Stewart, English
In this reading, angels, killers, and superheroes
encounter each other and explore the mysteries of human nature.
*Language advisory: Some of the characters in this play use
four-letter words and make sexual references.
Return to Links
![Linds [graphic]](txtLinks.gif){kind=small}
![[blank]](blank.gif){kind=small}