Title: | Doane Alumni Network |
Author(s): | Andersen Brandon |
Abstract: | The Doane Alumni Network will be an online community where Doane Alumni can easily get information from the Doane Alumni Office as well as communicate with other alumni who are part of the site. The Doane Alumni Network will also allow for alumni to sign up as mentors for current Doane students. Students will then be able to search active mentors on the Alumni Network and find alumni who may help them with their future goals. My presentation will include a look at the process that was involved during the creation on the Alumni Network as well as the technologies that were used to create and maintain it. |
Title: | Electronic Sound-Activated Switch |
Author(s): | Buse Eric |
Abstract: | In this project, I developed an electronic sound-activated switch by combining and altering three schematics found on the web to get the final working device. Two schematics were found at www.plazaearth.com, which had Lego Mindstorm designs, and the third site was an electronics hobby web site, which listed a toggle switch that I altered. The circuit was breadboarded and modified until a working system was demonstrated. A circuit board was then designed and fabricated and all the components were added to the board. A clear plexiglass box was also constructed to contain the working device, allowing all the components to be viewed without taking any of the device apart. The final product is currently in use in my dorm room to turn a light on and off when I clap my hands and will be demonstrated on my poster. |
Title: | Research Methods and Analysis of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) Immunohistochemistry in the Mouse Inferior Olivary Complex |
Author(s): | Daniels Jeff |
Abstract: | The IOC is a region densely packed with afferent fibers that originate in the spinal cord, cerebral cortex, vestibular nuclei, and other brainstem sources. Axons of inferior olivary neurons project as climbing fibers to the cerebellum where they function as excitatory synapses on several cells, most notably Purkinje cells, in the cerebellar cortex. Immunohistochemical experiments in the mouse IOC have shown the neuropeptide CGRP to be densely distributed throughout the dorsal accessory and medial accessory nuclei, and the principal olive of the IOC. Immunoelectronmicroscopic studies of CGRP in the IOC have shown CGRP to be contained within dendritic spines, axons, and varicosities. The long term goal of the lab is to localize CGRP in specific subcellular organelles. Since the antibody purchased from Amersham used in the original studies is no longer available, an antibody to CGRP was purchased from Bachem for this study. The goals for this study were to set up a fluorescence immunohistochemistry procedure and to verify that the Bachem antibody exhibits the same density and localization of label as the Amersham antibody. The fluorescence immunohistochemistry procedure is currently set up and running and the density and localization of the Bachem antibody is under analysis. These results will set up future studies in electronmicroscopic localization of CGRP within the IOC. This publication was made possible by NIH Grant Number P20 RR16469 from the BRIN Program of the National Center for Research Resources. |
Title: | Antibody Production to the Quorum-Sensing Signal Molecule N-Acyl-Homoserine Lactone of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa |
Author(s): | Fegter Scott |
Abstract: | Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram negative bacterial pathogen that regulates its gene expression in response to changes in their population through a process known as quorum sensing. During quorum sensing, these bacteria communicate with one another by detecting increasing concentrations of homoserine lactones. Once these homoserine lactones reach a certain concentration, P. aeruginosa turns on virulence factors that cause severe damage to the host's tissues, such as in cystic fibrosis patients who develop a biofilm of P. aeruginosa in their lungs. Production of an antibody that would bind to the homoserine lactones could benefit the treatment process by binding to the homoserine lactones and disrupting the signaling signal cascade necessary to turn on the virulence factors. This would then give other medications more time to eliminate the pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Commercially available HSL with adjuvant was injected into female white rats, and serum collected by tail bleeds. Antibody was harvested by affinity chromatography, and confirmed by precipitin reaction. Homoserine Lactone was extracted from bacterial serum and separated by Thin Layer Chromatography on C18 reversed-phase plates. After chromatography, antibody was applied to the plate. The reporter system Agrobacterium tumefaciens was used to determine the efficacy of the bound and unbound Homoserine Lactone molecules. |
Title: | Mock Arson Investigation Using Gas Chromatography |
Author(s): | Abby Fenner and Michael Stutzman |
Abstract: | The goal of this project is to try to identify arson accelerants using gas chromatography. By using temperature programming we developed a method for our most complex accelerant, gasoline. Using headspace sampling, injecting a sample of the gases above the surface of the liquid, we were able to get a distinct chromatograph for gasoline. We then used this method and this temperature program to create chromatographs exclusive to charcoal lighter fluid, Coleman lantern fuel, pure gum turpentine, and lacquer thinner. All of these could be possible accelerants in an arson investigation. Given a charred piece of wood, which was burned using an accelerant, we can identify the unknown accelerant by using G.C. Following the same method and temperature program we can compare the unknown to one of our five known samples and correctly identify it. |
Title: | Does Theraputic Touch Alter the Vibrations of Water? |
Author(s): | Abby Fenner and Kassie Stone |
Abstract: | Therapeutic touch (TT) is a holistic healing practice used to help activate the self-healing processes of the individual. In general, clinical studies have shown decreased stress and pain levels, but lack an understanding of any mechanism by which TT might work. Some physiological changes attributed to TT have been decreased levels of nitric oxide and changes in cancer cell counts. It has been explained by practitioners that TT is a process by which energy is transmitted from the practitioner to the patient for the purpose of healing. A TT treatment lasts 10-30 minutes and usually does not involve physical touch. A published study found that TT affected the vibrational frequency of water, monitored by infrared (IR) spectroscopy. An alteration of the bulk structure of water was thereby proposed as a possible mechanism of action by TT. We felt that this study was filled with glaring scientific errors, and we attempted to repeat this study using a modern FTIR instrument. The goal of this study was not to refute whether or not TT works, but rather to check on the possibility of this particular mechanism. The frequency of light which water absorbs in the IR was studied using a controlled, double-blind experiment where some water samples had been held in the palms of a licensed TT practitioner during an actual healing session. Results as to whether the practitioner was successful in altering the vibrational frequency of water will be presented. |
Title: | Marketing Cattle in 2004 |
Author(s): | Aaron Fryzek |
Abstract: | In the Sandhills of Nebraska, getting information to potential cattle buyers and sellers is getting easier. My project gives the Burwell Livestock Market the opportunity to provide buyers, sellers, and any web user information about upcoming sales instantly as the information becomes available. This web application is driven by a database that stores the information and provides it on a dynamic web site. The project also includes an email newsletter that will provide daily, weekly, or monthly cattle consignments and sale summaries. The Livestock Market currently offers live cattle auctions online making it one of the leaders in cattle marketing in 2004. For my poster [or presentation] session, I will discuss the requirements of the Burwell Livestock Market, outline the design of the web application I created to meet those requirements, and then demonstrate the application. |
Title: | Inventory Management Database |
Author(s): | Clay Govier |
Abstract: | For my senior seminar project, I designed and developed a database application to manage the inventory of a convenience store in Ansley, Nebraska. Through interviews with the financial manager of the store, I was able to determine what the requirements of the database application. The database contains information concerning products, departments, suppliers, and employees. It allows for the adding, deleting, or editing of any data within the application. The database will aid the management of the inventory that was previously performed either manually or using an Excel spreadsheet. My poster session will include a discussion of the development process including the analysis, design, creation, and support of the application. I will also include areas that I feel could be improved. Finally, I will provide a demonstration of my application. |
Title: | Identification of the Compounds Released from the Osage Orange Fruit and their Repellency to German Cockroaches |
Author(s): | Nicole Hancy |
Abstract: | The fruit of the osage orange, Maclura pomifera, has been utilized as an insect repellent for many years in the United States. Settlers in the American west placed the ripe fruit of this tree in cupboards to repel cockroaches and other insects. The scientific validity of this well-popularized practice was studied using both ripe and unripe fruits of M. pomifera collected from Saline County, NE. To identify the compounds released from the osage orange, headspace volatiles from both ripe and unripe fruits were collected at room temperature using solid phase microextraction. The isolates obtained were separated by GC/MS to identify the components. The behavioral response of German cockroaches (Blattella germanica) to the fruit and/or extracts was used to determine the repellent effect of the osage orange compounds on the insects. The insects were placed into a round enclosure divided into equal halves, with one side containing the treatment. The time the insect spent within a specified proximity of the treated object over a total of 15 minutes per insect was measured and expressed in seconds. Statistical significance was determined using a paired t-test to relate the repellent effect of the fruit/extracts to the position of the insect in the enclosure. |
Title: | IST Senior Assessment Database with VBA |
Author(s): | Byron Hanna |
Abstract: | The previous method for generating and maintaining IST senior seminar assessment questions was needlessly inefficient and time consuming. I designed and created a database application using Microsoft Access and VBA to make the method more robust and flexible. The new system allows the IST faculty to create, read, update, and delete incoming and outgoing IS students along with creating, reading, updating, and deleting questions for those prospective students. The questions are classified under one of three feilds: CORE, IS, or CSI. The faculty has the ability to generate, preview, and print question sets and their respective answer keys along with marking the status of individual questions. All of this is done through three forms I created to act as the interface making the user's experience and tasks more friendly and efficient. For my poster session, I will discuss the methodology followed in creating the application, outline the design of the application, and demonstrate the application. |
Title: | Crete Schools Computer Network Rebuild |
Author(s): | Eric Himmelberg |
Abstract: | One segment of the information technology field that is of great importance to businesses, educational institutions, and the World Wide Web is computer networking. For my senior seminar project I worked for the Crete Public School system building a new network from the ground up. The Crete Public School District's existing network at the time consisted of two separate Windows 2000 domains. In an effort to stay current with the latest technology and improve network performance the school district decided to build a completely new domain using Windows 2003 servers. Along with a new domain, the school system also wished to upgrade its email server to allow for a greater range of calendaring and project collaboration options. This project not only involved creating a new domain but also involved recreating all users, file sharing permissions, and testing application compatibility within the new domain. My poster session will include a description of the tasks performed during this project as well as a brief description of the old and new Crete Public School District's networks. |
Title: | Web Control Cambot |
Author(s): | Dan Hoelting |
Abstract: | I would like to show in presentation format how I completed my capstone seminar project, including what I started with, my design, final implementation, and what plans it has for the future with further seminar projects. This will be followed by a demonstration where a member of the audience will be able to control the bot itself while I talk further about the project. |
Title: | Evolution or Evilution |
Author(s): | Jessica Hutter, Daniell Nott, Chelsi Klentz, Melissa Kopf, Amy Sherwood, Eric Ponte, Michael Stutzman, Erika Pearson, Susan Hays |
Abstract: | In 2002, Dr. Georgi, Professor of Biology at Doane College, administered a survey to students of Biology 101 and Biology 351. The data collected showed that over 50 percent of the students surveyed believed in the Creation Story of evolution and thought that the Darwinian Theory Evolution was incorrect, about 20 percent did not know which theory they believed, and only about 30 percent said that Darwin and Wallace's Theory of Evolution is correct. Creationism, the idea that each species is created by God and never changes, was popular belief for nearly 2000 years. In the late 1700s, Jean Lamarck theorized that organisms evolve through the inheritance of acquired characteristics. In 1858, Darwin and Wallace proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection. It states that evolution is the genetic makeup of populations' changes over time, driven by natural selection. Many people today are unaware what Darwinian evolution is. Many believe that it states that man evolved from ape when in actuality one may say more accurately that it postulates that modern Man evolved from the same ancestors as modern ape. The purpose of this study to determine if there is a relation between a belief in the Creation Story and one's major of study, religious affiliation, and the population of one's hometown. Data will be collected from a survey administered to Doane students selected at random, and analyzed with SPSS. |
Title: | A Biomechanical Analysis of the Golf Swing |
Author(s): | Marcus Kohout |
Abstract: | In my experiment I studied the kinematics and mechanics of the Golf swing. Previous studies have shown that improper swing technique can lead to injury, especially degeneration of the lower lumbar intervertebral disks. Numerous devices are on the market to correct this problem and some are even used by physical therapy clinics. This was the main focus of my study, to see if these devices actually worked. To do this, I analyzed the golf swing of six subjects before and after the use of four swing correcting devices, all of which emphasize correct mechanics in different aspects of the swing. The subjects trained with the devices for one month. The swings were analyzed using the Videopoint program. |
Title: | FFA Global Outbound Activities: A Study of Agricultural Practices in European Countries |
Author(s): | Miranda Koepke |
Abstract: | FFA is a large youth organization with a strong foundation in agriculture, which promotes premiere leadership, personal growth, and career success. As a state officer in this organization, I was given the opportunity to travel to England, Belgium, Germany, and the Czech Republic for two and a half weeks to gain a better understanding of European agriculture. This trip broadened my knowledge and helped me to develop stronger leadership qualities. While overseas, I was able to study various aspects of agriculture including dairy production and mechanized agriculture. I also visited several universities to learn about agricultural education in Europe. Staying with host families allowed me to gain a greater appreciation for their way of life and also helped me to develop cross-cultural communication abilities. Participation in team building activities allowed me to interact with and learn from other FFA state officers. Overall the mission of this trip was to promote a better understanding of the FFA organization and observe the vitality of agriculture in European countries. |
Title: | Male Peace-keeping in the Cichlid Fish "Pseudotropheus elongatus" |
Author(s): | Amy Lussetto |
Abstract: | The cichlid fish from the family Cichlidae are known for their aggressive and territorial behaviors. Signs of aggressive behaviors include but are not limited to: intensified colors, erect fins, "tail beating," biting, chasing, and circling. Previous studeis have found that certain groups of cichlid fish practice a notion called "male peace-keeping" in their harems (which include one male and two or more females). These studies concluded that in the temporary absences of the males from the group, the females demonstrated more aggressive behavior. When males were around there was much less female to female aggression. Even in established harems, the females are aggressive towards each other; however, males intervened in many of the female aggressive interactions. When a male is removed from his harem, there will be an immediate increase in the aggression between the females within the harem. In our study, we set out to prove if this was also the case for the cichlid fish "Pseudotropheus elongatus," a species endemic to Lake Malawi in Africa. We did this by setting up a tank with a divider in the middle seperating out two harems. The divider was then removed and the interactions between the two harems were monitored. Then, the males were removed and the female-female interactions were recorded to see if the presence of the males had any impact on the female behavior. The most frequent types of aggressive behaviors were also recorded to see which sex was most prone to a certain behavior. |
Title: | Analysis of Genetic Diversity of Prairie Dogs at the Prairie Research Site |
Author(s): | Malia Mann |
Abstract: | Doane College's Aldrich Prairie Research Site is the home to Nebraska's easternmost black-tailed prairie dog town. The town is divided down the center by a wetland and this project was originally designed to study the genetic relatedness of prairie dogs on either side of the wetland. The intent of this project was to gather blood samples from dogs throughout the town, extract genomic DNA from the blood samples and use PCR to amplify microsatellite DNA regions that would create a fingerprint unique to each dog or ward of dogs. We succeeded in collecting blood from 5 dogs on only one side of the wetland, but have proceeded to work on the methods for fingerprinting these dogs with hopes of applying this protocol to other dogs as they are trapped in the years to come. Insight into the genetic diversity of the Grafton prairie dogs may help us understand the genetic health of that particular population and would complement a behavioral analysis of family groups and wards furthering our understanding of the prairie dog community. |
Title: | Light-Emitting Diodes |
Author(s): | Jarrod McAlevy |
Abstract: | Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can replace incandescent lights and fluorescent lights around Doane College to reduce the amount of energy needed to light the school both at night and day. This study investigates the amount of energy saved in a lamp that contains LED lights as compared to incandescent lights. The study is then going to show that with the replacement of these bulbs, now used, to light-emitting diodes the college will save energy and consequently money. To obtain the needed data concerning the amount of current consumed by an LED lamp, a special lamp was modified using 24 white LED bulbs. The amount of power needed to run the lamp was then determined. |
Title: | .net Technologies at Work |
Author(s): | Mark Metzner |
Abstract: | What is this .net thing all about? This project explores the Visual Basic .net and ADO .net technologies that allow sophisticated windows applications to be constructed and connected to a database backend. It consisted of the analysis, design, and implementation of a prototype transaction processing windows application. After a number of interviews with managers at KV Vet Supply, a design for the project began to take shape. A SQL Server 2000 database was developed with the necessary tables to track customer, product, and order information. Once the database was completed, a Visual Basic .net graphical user interface and underlying code were developed. The underlying code dealt heavily with the ActiveX Data Object .net classes to properly interface with the database. The goal of the prototype software is to illustrate to KV Vet Supply that they can develop their own transaction processing software utilizing the rapid application development tools provided by Visual Studio .net and the .net architecture. |
Title: | Doane Owl Website |
Author(s): | Adam Miller |
Abstract: | The Doane Owl is Doane College's student created newspaper. Published weekly, it is Doane's major source to spread news and opinion. A senior project with the IST department recently developed a new Web site for the Doane Owl allowing editors to update the Owl Web site instantly from anywhere in the world. The presentation will address the new features and abilities of the Doane Owl Web site |
Title: | The Effects of Anterior Cruciate Ligament replacement on Flexion and Extension Angles of the Knee Joint |
Author(s): | Brandon Noerrlinger |
Abstract: | The anterior cruciate ligament(ACL) is one of the most important structures in the knee joint as well as one of the most commonly injured. Tears to the ACL have ended the playing careers of many athletes both professional and recreational. The most important function of the ACL is protecting the knee against anterior displacement of the tibia and against hyperextension. In this experiment, the effects of ACL reconstruction on knee flexion and extension angles were tested. A group of 6 individuals that had undergone ACL reconstruction were compared to a group of 6 individuals that had no history of knee problems to determine if there were differences in knee flexion and extension angles during both running and walking. Comparisons were done first using video clips recorded on a digital video camera, then transferred to Final Cut Pro and VideoPoint software for statistical comparisons. The results showed that there are no significant differences in the flexion/extension angles of the two groups in regards to walking; however, during running there was a significant difference in both flexion and extension suggesting that ACL reconstructed individuals have more flexion and extension capabilities in their knee joints. One possible reason may be the rehabilitation program that each of the ACL reconstructed individuals go through to heal their knee. Another possibility is the lifestyle and amount of activity level between each of the groups. |
Title: | Genetic Analysis of PTC and Cilantro Taste Preferences |
Author(s): | Heather Noxon and Alex Meyer |
Abstract: | The ability to taste certain chemicals has been studied thoroughly and in some cases shown to be inherited. The best example of this work is illustrated by the inheritance of the ability to taste the chemical phenylthiocarbamide (PTC). Because the herb cilantro invokes generally strong preference for or against its flavor it seemed that this polarity suggested an inherited tasting preference. We designed this research project in an attempt to uncover a linkage between the ability to taste PTC and a preference for or against cilantro flavor. In addition, we aimed to observe possible genetic frequencies and inheritance mechanisms for cilantro. Research subjects completed surveys while participating in taste tests of PTC and fresh cilantro. The survey included questions concerning several factors, including the ability to taste PTC and cilantro, taste preferences, sense of smell, etc. Approximately 200 individuals were tested randomly to be included in general population statistics. In addition, another set of participants were members of one of two families studied for pedigrees analysis. Contrary to our hypothesis there does not seem to be a strong polarity in cilantro taste preference. While the pedigrees do not illustrate a clear genetic mechanism to tasting cilantro they do show that attributing a bitter flavor to cilantro seems directly inherited. |
Title: | Total Image Web Application |
Author(s): | Vinnie Pasho |
Abstract: | For my seminar project, I designed and developed a web application for Total Image, a clothing store in Lincoln. This application was designed to provide information about the company and the products it sells. The application uses Active Server Pages written with VB Scripting to allow visitors to the Web site view updated product images and updated events that the owner wished to display. The owner will be able to access this application to submit new pictures and events over the web. The information is stored in a database. My poster session will review the requirements of the Web site and corresponding web application; discuss the design of the database, Web site and web application developed to meet the requirements; and outline the steps I took implementing the application. I will also demonstrate the application. |
Title: | The Collecting, Preservation, and Identification of Insects at the Doane College Aldrich Prairie Research Site |
Author(s): | Jason Reimers |
Abstract: | One of the oldest living animals known is the insect. With a scientific estimate of over 30 million different species in existence today, insects are one of the most diverse and abundant animals known to exist. This study involved surveying the insect populations at the Aldrich Prairie Research Site. Insects were captured using nets, light traps, and ground samples. After collection, the insects were preserved and identified to the scientific family name and placed in a collection which will serve as a resource and continue to be used by other Doane College students as they explore the diversity and ecology of insects found throughout the Aldrich Prairie Research Site. |
Title: | Doane Track and Field database |
Author(s): | Dequintus Robinson |
Abstract: | In doing this poster I want to create a explanation as well as a condition in which the students looking at the poster will know exactly how the database works and will also be able to see some of the processes which were used in creating the database. I want to create a poster that will show links between pages as well as showing some of the coding that went into each page. I want each page to be individualized in a manner that the viewers can know what and how each page is going back and forth. It will also show the explanation for the project and the people who are behind some of the designing and usage. It will be highly illustrated and very well put together. The poster will also show how you could conduct a database from a to z and it will give the viewer a chance to understand the parts of a database. I want to put each part of the program into a structure that would be something like this. I want to have the tables list and show the viewers all my tables, then go to the forms and print out some of the forms that I have and give a design view and a finished view and show some of the things you can do in the form format. I also want to show my relationships and how the create a working condition that allows all the forms and links to work, then I want to do the same for the report. I want this to be in a step by step format showing l as entering the tables, all the way down to the very last detail of the database. I also want to relate these to the radius model. |
Title: | Cholecystokinin, in Effect to the Gastrointestinal System and the Nervous System |
Author(s): | Chris D. Rupp |
Abstract: | Cholecystokinin is the most abundant neuropeptide in the central nervous system. Secretion of cholecystokinin from neurons regulates the activity of other hormones and neuropeptides. Neuropeptides cause complex changes in a cells control. These changes make the nucleus ready to perform certain functions. In this experiment antibodies were used to bind to the neuropeptide cholecystokinin, specifically in the inferior olive. Mice were injected with 1 ml avertin. A needle, attached to perfusion equipment, was inserted into the left ventricle allowing the paraformaldehyde to follow the blood flow into the brain. Paraformaldehyde was perfused throught the mouse in order to fix the brain. The brain was removed and sectioned with a vibratome. The sections were treated with a rabbit anti-CCK antibody and subsequently with a florescent goat anti-rabbit antibody abbreviated FITC. After mounting the sections on a slide they were viewed with a fluorescent microscope. Location and densities of the labels were noted within the inferior olive, more specifically the medial accessory olive, dorsal accessory olive, and the principal olive. The results showed that the antibodies did indeed bind with the suspected neuropeptide cholecystokinin. One suspected reason why this neuropeptide is found within the brain is that it may in fact be a sort of check and balance that makes sure certain (unknown) processes are carried out correctly. This publication was made possible by NIH Grant Number P20 RR16469 from the BRIN Program of the National Center for Research Resources. |
Title: | Biofeedback: Yoga and Relaxation |
Author(s): | Amber Rutt |
Abstract: | Biofeedback incorporates several technique used to alter brain activity, blood pressure, heart rate and other functions that are not under voluntary control. These techniques are considered de-stressors and can be helpful in many disorders such as insomnia, hypertension and headaches. In this experiment, the effectiveness of yoga as a form of biofeedback was studied. Six participants in a yoga class were connected to a BIOPAC system that measured their heart rate, electrodermal activity. Blood pressure was measured manually. Data was collected before and after each subject participated in yoga. The data were classified according to their age, sex and experience with yoga. The trials before participation in yoga were then compared with the trials that were taken after their participation. The results showed that yoga does have a positive, decreasing effect on heart rate, blood pressure and GSR. Yoga decreases stress levels which in turn decreased heart-rate, blood pressure and electrodermal activity. These results conclude that yoga can be considered a form of biofeedback. |
Title: | Online Voting Application |
Author(s): | Alison Sanders |
Abstract: | The issue of online voting is highly debated in our nation today. For my honors research and senior seminar project I researched the pros and cons of online voting in a national setting. I then created a smaller application to be used by Doane for various elections that are held such as Homecoming Royalty, Student Congress Elections, Who's Who at Doane Elections, etc. The application uses Active Server Pages with VB Scripting. I will show the research, design, and implementation of this application. |
Title: | Runway Activity of Cynomys Ludovicianus |
Author(s): | Jennfier Sherwood |
Abstract: | Cynomys ludovicianus, commonly known as the black-tailed prairie dog, is a burrowing rodent that inhabits the western grasslands that stretch from southern Canada to northern Mexico across the United States. Previously considered an unnecessary pest with little value to the Great Plains, the black-tailed prairie dog is now regarded as an ecological keystone species; a species that plays an important role in maintaining the biotic diversity of its grassland habitat. This burrowing species constructs systems of underground burrows and surface runways that are used for feeding, nesting, shelter, and protection from predators. Extensive research has been conducted in regard to the usage of these systems of burrows and runways to evaluate their function and the effects that environmental pressures have on the usage of them by prairie dogs and other animals. The objective of this project is to study the effects of weather, temperature, time of day, and other environmental influences on the usage of surface runways by the black-tailed prairie dogs inhabiting the Doane College Aldrich Prairie Research Site located near Grafton, Nebraska. An automatic motion field camera has been used to capture images of the prairie dogs within the runways. The time of day, weather, and temperature have been recorded and will be analyzed to observe their effects on the usage of these runways by the black-tailed prairie dog. |
Title: | Cadmium Absorption Influenced by Bodily Deposits of Iron |
Author(s): | Heidi Smith |
Abstract: | Cadmium is a naturally occurring metallic element, one of the components of the earth's crust and present everywhere in our environment. Its potential risks to human health have been greatly studied and actions are being taken to control this exposure. Beginning in the 1950's, the scientific community has drawn its attention to the potential toxicity of cadmium and to the risks presented by its accumulation in man. The major route for cadmium intake is ingestion. This is largely due to the presence of trace levels of cadmium in food of natural origin or of the use of phosphate fertilizers and sludge on agricultural soils. Investigators conducted a world-wide study to determine the average daily cadmium intake from all sources. The primary adverse health effects which have been observed are lung cancer and kidney damage. Cadmium enters the human body by inhalation, by ingestion, and perhaps by absorption through the skin. Many of the effects of cadmium are systemic. After initial exposure, inhalation, and absorption, cadmium is transported by the blood plasma, although the majority of the cadmium is bound to the blood cells. Cadmium in blood is distributed between blood cells and plasma. Regardless of the route of absorption or the type of cadmium compound, approximately one half to one third of the body burden of cadmium is found in the kidneys after chronic low-level exposure, with the highest concentrations found in the renal cortex.Cadmium absorption has been a focus for the medical community for many years. Along with its absorption, other correlations have been made to cadmium absorption. A study was done by Agneta Akkeson and others; they reported that pregnant women with iron deficiency have increased iron absorption. There was an inverse relationship between iron and cadmium within the human body. As iron deposits decreased, the vulnerability of the body to absorb cadmium increases. Cadmium absorption has been seen to affect both animals and humans. Because of this reason, it was proposed that cadmium levels in Nebraska fish be observed. The Blue River is probably contaminated and exposed to much industrial areas, as well as areas exposed to sewage and agricultural runoff. Thus, it was hypothesized that there would be a significant amount of cadmium in the river in order to find traceable amounts of cadmium in the tissues of cat fish from this environment. Tissues (muscle and kidney) from the fish were compared. A cadmium level of 200-250 ppm is the standard for toxicity within the kidney.Cadmium absorption has been seen to affect both animals and humans. Because of this reason, it was proposed that cadmium levels in Nebraska fish be observed. The Blue River is probably contaminated and exposed to much industrial areas, as well as areas exposed to sewage and agricultural runoff. Thus, it was hypothesized that there would be a significant amount of cadmium in the river in order to find traceable amounts of cadmium in the tissues of cat fish from this environment. Tissues (muscle and kidney) from the fish were compared. A cadmium level of 200-250 ppm is the standard for toxicity within the kidney. Cat fish from the Blue River north of Crete, Nebraska were collected and samples of skeletal muscle and kidney tissue were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The only conclusions that could be made from these samples were that they all contained less than 5 ppm since that was the smallest unit AAS could detect. Although an inverse relationship was not observed, it does appear that The Blue River does not contain a hazardous amount of cadmium within its waters. |
Title: | Microanatomy/Histology of the Kidney |
Author(s): | Heidi Smith, Eric Fuehrer, Nicole Hancy, and Chris Schidler |
Abstract: | "The main function of the kidneys is to regulate the volume, composition, and pH of body fluids. In the process, the kidneys remove metabolic wastes from the blood and excrete them to the outside. These wastes include nitrogenous and sulfur-containing products of protein metabolism. The kidneys also help control the rate of red blood cell formation by secreting the hormone erythropoietin, regulate blood pressure and blood volume by secreting the enzyme renin, and regulate absorption of calcium ions by activating vitamin D. The functional unit of a kidney is the nephron. A kidney contains about one million nephrons. Each nephron consists of a renal corpuscle and a renal tubule. A renal corpuscle consists of a filtering unit composed of a tangled cluster of blood capillaries called a glomerulus and a surrounding thick-walled saclike structure called a glomerular (renal or Bowman's) capsule. Several types of nephrons are identified, based on the location of their renal corpuscles in the cortex. Subcapsular or cortical nephrons have their renal corpuscles located in the outer part of the cortex. Juxtamedullary nephrons make up about one-eighth of the total nephron count. Their renal corpuscles occur in proximity to the base of a medullary pyramid. Intermediate or midcortical nephrons have their renal corpuscles in the midregion of the cortex. There are many other vital structures to a kidney for its proper function. Many of these were examined and located with the use of a light microscope as well as a scanning electron microscope. These important structures can be viewed by the detailed diagram provided by the Spring, 2004 Microanatomy/Histology class. Some of these structures include the renal pyramid, renal cortex, renal medulla, renal capsules, epithelium tissue, associated vessels and nerves, connective fibers, and loops of Henle (which are important structures in order to differentiate the various types of nephrons). Staining tissues is a chemical means of differentiating and increasing control by selective coupling of stains/dyes to cells or to cellular products. At best, it reflects the biochemistry of the living cell/tissue/organ. Three different stains were used in order to differentiate among fiber types within the kidney. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) was used to view collagen and stain nuclei deep blue and cytoplasmic structures pink. Mallory's trichome differentiates among collagen, ordinary cytoplasm, nerves, mucus, and connective tissues. Finally, the periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) was used to demonstrate glycogen in cells, mucus in various cells and tissues, the basement membrane that underlies epithelia, and reticular fibers in connective tissue. " |
Title: | Co-Localization of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide and Cholecystokinin in the Inferior Olivary Complex |
Author(s): | Abby Soterin |
Abstract: | The cerebellum coordinates muscle contraction and movement. As a source of climbing fiber afferents to the cerebellum, the inferior olivary complex (IOC) plays an important role in cerebellar control of movement. Peptides in the IOC may modify climbing fiber afferents and cerebellar activity, thus affecting muscle coordination. Recent studies have investigated the localization and distribution of calcitonin gene-relation peptide (CGRP) and cholecystokinin (CCK) in the IOC of mice using light microscopy. These studies demonstrated that CCK and CGRP are densely distributed in similar regions of the IOC. The current experiments will use immunohistochemistry at the light and electronmicroscopic levels to test our hypothesis that CGRP and CCK are co-localized within the same neuron and subcellular components within regions of the IOC of adult C57BL6/J mice. Since these techniques are new to this laboratory, a short term goal of these studies is to establish experimental procedures for immunohistochemistry in this laboratory. This publication was made possible by NIH Grant Number P20 RR16469 from the BRIN Program of the National Center for Research Resources. |
Title: | Extraction and Analysis of Atrazine from Aldrich Research Prairie Soil |
Author(s): | Abby Soterin |
Abstract: | Atrazine is a triazine herbicide used for the control of weeds by inhibiting photosynthesis. It is relatively soluble in water and is long-lasting in soil. This causes concern because it may cause residual damage to susceptible crops and may cause toxic levels in water supply. The objective of this study was to devise a practical assay for atrazine in soil for use at the Aldrich Research Prairie and for the Analytical Chemistry course. Atrazine is applied to fields around the Research Prairie in the spring in fairly small amounts. Therefore, we used solid-phase microextraction (SPME) in the assay to concentrate atrazine enough to allow us to quantify the low levels expected in the soil. Since these techniques are new to this laboratory, a short term goal of this study was to establish experimental procedures that would allow for the concentration of atrazine and its analysis in the GC/Mass Spectrometer. |
Title: | Changes in the length of the QT interval in endurance-trained athletes, static-trained athletes, and non-athletes |
Author(s): | Andrea Swanson |
Abstract: | The QT interval is defined as the distance from the beginning of the Q wave to the end of the T wave observed on the electrocardiogram (ECG). The ECG measures the amount of electrical activity of the heart during the cardiac cycle. It has been found that the QT interval is longer in endurance-trained athletes due to the increase in muscle mass of the left ventricle of the heart. The purpose of this study is to determine if there are any significant differences in the length of the QT interval when comparing endurance-trained athletes, static-trained athletes, and non-athletes. Endurance-trained athletes consist of long distance track runners who train continuously without stopping. Static-trained athletes consist of women and men basketball players whose training is non-continuous and includes many rest periods. Each group, endurance-trained, static-trained, and non-athletes, consisted of six subjects. The ECGs of each subject were collected with the Biopac system and measured at three different times. The ECG was measured before exercise, immediately after a two-minute stair step exercise, and at rest 5 minutes after exercise. From the data, it was determined that there was a slight difference in the length of the QT interval between the ECGs of the static and endurance groups compared to the control group while at rest. The athletes, both static and endurance trained, showed a longer time period for the length of the QT interval. In contrast, a shorter time for the QT interval of the control group was observed. |
Title: | Correlating Testosterone Levels to Temperature in Cichlasoma Nigrofascitum Using Enzyme Immunoassays |
Author(s): | Anthony Temoshek |
Abstract: | It has been long known that a correlation exists between water temperature and aggression during reproduction in Convict Cichlid fish, yet testosterone levels have never been measured at various temperatures. This study involved investigating changes in testosterone levels at two temperatures. They were measured using a kit that can safely and easily measure these levels with ease and accuracy. The kits, and all related materials, are fairly inexpensive and can sustain many tests over a relatively short period of time. Preliminary tests and results show a properly working kit despite stretching the development step to accommodate the lack of a local plate reader. The tests show the ease at which results can be differentiated. |
Title: | Tech-Connected Science Room |
Author(s): | Dan Tesar |
Abstract: | Tri County Public Schools is a small K-12 school district located near DeWitt, Nebraska. I was hired in the spring of 2002 as the district's technology coordinator. I was approached by the superintendent at the time, Gary Oxley, in early December of 2002. He informed me that Educational Service Unit (ESU) #5 in Beatrice was writing a grant for the purchase of 25 Dell desktop computers to be used in one of the science classrooms. The intention of the grant was to give each student in the science classes access to a workstation to use for research and documentation. The Tri County Board of Education allotted $10,000, out of the district's general fund, for the purchase of support equipment for the science lab. My participation in this project had three major components. First, I was in charge of researching the necessary equipment and gear needed to complete this room. Second, I would be the one who actually authorized the purchase of this equipment. Finally, I was the one responsible for installing the equipment and making sure that the room was fully functional by the time school started. Viewers of this session will see a detailed layout of the classroom, a schedule of supplies, and photos of the finished room. |
Title: | Telescope Redesign |
Author(s): | Paul Thorson |
Abstract: | For my senior project we will be redesigning one of Doane College's 18 inch Newtonian telescopes. The current design is large and heavy, making it too bulky for simple transportation. The new plans will be aimed at making the telescope lighter and enabling it to be disassembled and reassembled when need be, thus making it far more portable. Also the image quality and focus of the current design is quite poor. The new design will work at correcting these flaws. We will be using optical design software that will allow us to optimize the image quality while keeping the weight down to a minimum. We are also designing an equatorial mount to replace the present Dobsonian mount, that will allow tracking and long exposure photographs of celestial objects. The completion of this project will allow for a later project for robot control of the telescope and make it possible for the science division to provide research opportunities for Doane studnets. |
Title: | Just Ask Rental Web Site |
Author(s): | Dan Underwood |
Abstract: | My project involved designing and implementing a Web site for Crete True Value Just Ask Rental that provided information about the available rental items. After interviewing Dan Papik, the owner, I created a web application that used a database to hold the information about the rental items. I used ASP (Active Server Pages) technology to design the site that not only lets customers browse items which can be rented, but also has pages that allow Dan Papik to log in and administer the database via the web. In my presentation, I will describe the process I went through to develop the site, how the site works, and demonstrate the website. |
Title: | The Effects of Abiotic Characteristics on Chemical Cycling and the Phytoplankton Ceratium hinrundella in a Lentic Ecosystem |
Author(s): | Wyatt R. Webster |
Abstract: | Lentic systems are freshwater sources that are readily affected by seasonal changes leading to fluctuations in nutrient cycling and phytoplankton population levels. Samples were collected and analyzed for carbon dioxide, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, pH, and nitrate levels from various depths in a eutrophic lake while observing population changes of Ceratium hinrundella. A temperature decrease caused a depletion of oxygen to all depths with minimal shift to the typical anoxic benthic layer. Carbon dioxide concentrations remained relatively constant with the exception of the epilimnion experiencing higher levels due to free exchange with the atmosphere. In conjunction with carbon dioxide levels, alkalinity and pH levels experienced minimal fluctuation adding to the notion of a buffering system. Predictions of significantly high nitrate levels were expected due to extensive leaf litter participating in decomposition; however, no traces were collected at any depth. Possible explanations for discrepancies include time of samples taken in regard to recent litter fall, and flawed detectors. Ceratium hinrundella population levels readily decreased throughout all depths with surface layers experiencing the most. Reasons for diminishing levels of the phytoplankton are availability of light, temperature, and minimal nutrient cycling. All chemical factors and population variations were considered when correlating them with bathymetric measurements taken of the lake benthos. |
Title: | Arsenic-reducing bacteria |
Author(s): | Nicky White |
Abstract: | Arsenic exists in four oxidation states, As(-III), As(0), As(III), and As(V). As(III) is predominant in anoxic environments and As(V) is prevalent in anaerobic, aqueous environments. Arsenic comes from such places as smelter smog, coal combustion, runoff from mine tailings, pigment production for paints and dyes and is in subsurface drinking water aquifers. It is also produced naturally from igneous activity. There are bacteria in nature that can get energy from Arsenic while others are resistant to it or use it for respiration. We used various water samples from western Nebraska and grew bacteria colonies from them on arsenic-rich auger plates. Colonies were chosen from those plates and were isolated. Those isolates were viewed on darkfield stains and gram stains. API strips were done on select colonies and pellets were collected from others. Anaerobic broth cultures were brought up from the pellets and sulfide testing was done on the anaerobe cultures to identify arsenic reducers. |
Title: | eModes |
Author(s): | Tony Wilsman |
Abstract: | The Enhanced Music Organization Digital Ensemble System (eModes) is targeted for use by a post-secondary educational institution for use in a musical performance setting. This is not, however, the limit of its potential application. The system is intended to increase the efficiency of a music program by simplifying and streamlining the administration, rehearsal, and performance of multiple and diverse ensembles. The system digitizes the process of maintaining a music library, simplifies the administration of ensembles, and automates the tasks of assigning and displaying music. Imagine. The director sits down at the eModes server first thing in the morning. He enters the pieces he will rehearse for each ensemble for the day. The system already knows which students are in which ensemble as well what part and chair they play. When rehearsal time comes, the students don't find their music, look at the black board, and sort through an unorganized folder for the pieces they are about to rehearse. They simply sit down at an eModes client terminal that looks much like a traditional music stand, except it is actually a flat panel LCD. They turn the client on, login with their user name for the ensemble they are in, and the rehearsal schedule for the day is right there. They select a piece to rehearse, and the music pops up on the screen. eModes is built on existing web and database technologies. It utilizes Apache Web Server, MySQL, and the PHP scripting language, running on the Linux operating system. Music, performer profiles, and director profiles are stored in the database, and are retrieved using PHP scripted web pages. |