Title: | Academic Support Center Website |
Author(s): | Hunachew Abebe |
Abstract: | My project involved designing and implementing a website for the Doane College Academic Support Center (ASC). After analyzing the requirements the design and implementation of the Web site consisted of four phases: creation of the unsecured pages that contain useful information about the ASC such as staff information, services, tutors, and special events; development of the database structure used to contain information on users and special events required by the Active Server Pages; creation of the Active Server Pages (ASPs) that provide information on select events to authorize students; and using a Doane template to make the site look consistent with the Doane website. My poster session will discuss the process I went through in analyzing, designing and implementing the website. In addition, I will demonstrate the website. |
Title: | Flash VidDat: A Macromedia Flash Application for Physics Video Analysis On the Web |
Author(s): | Andrew Baruth |
Abstract: | Use of digitized video in instructional physics labs is now standard. Video delivered over the web allows students to do lab exercises for homework. Such video-based homework often requires that students take position data from the video clip with specialized software. We have developed a Macromedia Flash tool for taking data from a video clip. This approach works by converting a video file into a Flash file. Scripts written in ActionScript allow the user to take position data from the Flash video. The Flash video files are easily placed on a web page for use by students at home. The student computer needs no other software except the Flash plug-in for the appropriate browser. We will present examples of Flash video files used in this way, instructions for converting Quicktime, or other video files, into the correct format, and comments on how the ActionScript code works. |
Title: | Information Kiosk |
Author(s): | James Beckwith |
Abstract: | Dedicated in 1999, Lied is the newest classroom type of building on campus, which houses the science and mathematic departments. On top of being the newest building, it is also the most technologically advanced building on campus providing state of the art technology in its classrooms. The primary goal for this kiosk is to provide directions within the Lied Math and Science Building. Secondary objectives of this project are to provide a tour of the building, some history of Lied building and foundation, information about the departments and faculty.The apparent users for the kiosk are for visitors, alumni, and prospective students. On top of demonstrating the project, there will be information about process for an idea of reality, and all the stumbling blocks on the way. The process itself will we be divided into five major parts: idea, development, implementation, future expansion, and unexpected events. This will allow viewers to understand the development of an information kiosk for the Lied Building. |
Title: | Identification of Temperature Sensitive Cell Cycle Mutants in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii |
Author(s): | Amy Dey |
Abstract: | Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is an organism that appears to be ideal for identifying genes involved in the cell cycle because its cycle is under circadian control and can be synchronized by light. Cell cycle research is important particularly for its relationship to cancer, a disease caused by a failure of cell cycle regulators to keep the cycle under control. The purpose of our project is to identify genes in Chlamydomonas that may regulate progress of the cell cycle. We began by identifying the pattern of Chlamydomonas growth in liquid cultures in a 12-hour dark: 12-hour light cycle. Work by other researchers has shown that Chlamydomonas remain in G1 phase of the cell cycle during the light and enter S phase just after dark. Since we were interested in introducing mutations in genes regulating the G1-S transition we chose to expose the cells to ethane methylsulfonate (EMS) just prior to onset of the second and third dark periods (32 and 56 hours of culture). Through EMS mutagenesis, we hope to induce point mutations in cell cycle genes and recover strains of Chlamydomonas with temperature sensitive mutations. A screen of potential mutants is underway where the colonies are grown in duplicate at 25°C and 30°C, looking for normal growth at room temperature and failure to grow at 30°C. Temperature sensitive mutants are useful because we can maintain a strain with a mutation in an essential cell cycle gene at room temperature when complete loss of gene function would likely kill the cell. |
Title: | Instrumentation Design for Electric Potential Measurements on Black Ghost Knifefish |
Author(s): | Chris Dolan |
Abstract: | The South American freshwater fish Apteronotus albifrons, commonly known as the black ghost knifefish, is a weakly electric fish. The head-tail electric potential is typically a few millivolts, at its maximum. To help the Doane College Biology Department study this fish I designed and built a voltage measuring system for the fish. The instrument is based on the AD 621 instrumentation amplifier chip. The instrument produces an output voltage that can be visualized on an oscilloscope or computer. Instrument design and performance will be discussed. Examples of voltage measurements on the fish will be shown. |
Title: | Occurence of S. Pyogenes in Asymptomatic Children and Staff in Selected Daycares and Preschools in Southeastern Nebraska |
Author(s): | Kristan Elsen |
Abstract: | Respiratory infections are common in children. Streptococcus pyogenes is a common cause of pharyngitis. S. pyogenes may be present in children who do not have the symptoms of pharyngitis. This research project was performed to find the approximate percentage of preschool age children who may be asymptomatic carriers. It is a common hypothesis that 10% of all children are asymptomatic carriers. This study found that less than ten percent (3/72 or 4.167%) of the swabbed children were carriers. The three positive results were found in one center. This may be due to better sampling due to the good participation of the children and the large sample size. |
Title: | Detection of Testosterone in Convict Cichlids by Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry |
Author(s): | Christopher Frey |
Abstract: | It has been observed that convict cichlids are aggressive and territorial, and that they are more aggressive at higher mating temperatures. The purpose of this experiment was to study what may be the proximate cause of this behavior. The goal of this study is to see if there is a correlation between testosterone levels in the fish and aggression by measuring testosterone at two different temperatures. This project poses the difficulties of sample collection, which was chosen to be the urine of the fish because it is less detrimental to the fish's well-being than a blood draw. Similar experiments have been done involving larger fish. The smaller fish also means a smaller sample size, which requires new methods be sought to using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry for analysis. In this experiment, new methods using capillary tubes and solid-phase micro extraction (SPME) to detect small (25 microliters) and low concentration (30 ng/ml) samples of a standardized testosterone. We continue to investigate issues related to this method of quantifying the amount of testosterone in the fish urine samples therefore these techniques have not yet been used on collected samples. But using mass spec methods with those mentioned above, these have become the beginnings of the method of testosterone analysis in these small samples. In this manner, the fish urine samples may be able to be analyzed in the future. |
Title: | Adventures in Robotics |
Author(s): | Benjamin Good |
Abstract: | Robotics is a very interesting, diverse, and complex field. It is an ever growing field of research and innovation. This paper discusses the development and construction of a simple robot named Rovie to serve as an exploration into the basic concepts of robotics and a platform for future research projects at Doane College.This paper discusses the design and development of Rovie. Wheel placement, motor control, power regulation, overall control of Rovie, and chassis strength and weight are among a few of the design considerations that I will discuss. Also, it will discuss the implementation of Rovie,which includes chassis construction, design and printing of circuit boards, the creation ofa Java interface and problems that I encountered. Finally, it will cover Rovie's future as a platform for student research at Doane College. |
Title: | Diversity of Mammalian Hair |
Author(s): | Mark Gustafson |
Abstract: | One of the characteristics that is used in defining a mammal is the ability to grow hair somewhere on the body. The question is whether or not hair and hair only can be used to identify a species. By looking at hair from several different species of mammals under an SEM microscope, I will be able to get a close up view of the hair and identify any characteristics of the hair that may be unique to that species. |
Title: | Webtrends/Web Analysis Database |
Author(s): | Melissa Hoffman |
Abstract: | Doane's website is a very useful marketing/information tool. It is used everyday by numerous students, parents, alumni, faculty, staff, prospective students, and community members, among others. The first part of my project consisted of working with a software program called Webtrends, which monitors the activity of Doane's website. This software is a very powerful tool that analyzes log files and generates reports containing information such as how many hits the site gets a day and who uses the site and their location. Throughout this project, I developed useful research and hands-on skills. The second part of my project consisted of building my own web-analyzing tool. I did this by creating a database application with Microsoft Access. This database imports log files, modifies the data, clears the data, and generates useful reports. It basically performs the same operations as the Webtrends software; it just doesn't have the numerous report options or professional interface. My poster session will cover both parts of my project. I will display some charts and reports as well as give explanations as to what the information means. I will also provide a demonstration of my own web-analysis tool. |
Title: | Weathering Effects on Acryloid B-44 and Incralac |
Author(s): | Loni Jensen |
Abstract: | This research project objective is to monitor the changes that occur during the weathering of outdoor artwork coatings. These changes include the thickness and chemical composition measured using FTIR, photoacoustic IR, and UV-vis. Our polymers were compared to results found previously of other specific polymers tested using the same process. This research was conducted as a Research Experience for Undergraduates participant with the Department of Polymers and Coatings at North Dakota State University-Fargo. |
Title: | |
Author(s): | Lonny Koehlmoos |
Abstract: | For my senior seminar project, I developed a database application for a lawn sprinkler company in Ord, Nebraska. The database contains information on customers and inventory, and provides order entry and invoicing functions. Prior to the database application, this was all done manually. My poster session will include a discussion of the process I went through including analyzing the requirements of the company, designing an effective database, and creating the database application. I will also be demonstrating the application and discussing problems that need to be fixed and possible future enhancements. |
Title: | Troubleshooting Database |
Author(s): | Darcy Kurz |
Abstract: | I completed a project for Palmer Public Schools for my senior seminar class. The project involved creating a database application with a web interface. The application provides troubleshooting answers for information technology problems. Prior to my application, they stored the information in a binder sorted by date. It was very difficult to find what they needed in the binders. With the new application, the school will be able to quickly find troubleshooting answers for specific problems. The web interface will allow other schools to find solutions for their problems and add to the troubleshooting records. The records all have a unique keyword so that you can easily find the solution to a problem. You can either search for a particular keyword or look through a list of all the keywords. You can also use a device list and choose the device you are having problems with. My oral session will include information on the process I went through in recognizing, analyzing, designing, and implementing this application. In addition, I will have a demonstration of my application. |
Title: | Identification of Temperature Sensitive Cell Cycle Mutants in Chlamydomonas Reinhardtii |
Author(s): | Alissa Long |
Abstract: | Cancer is a failure of the cell cycle regulators to prevent the cell from dividing at inappropriate times, resulting in rapid cell division that forms a tumor. Our interest is identifying Chlamydomonas genes that may regulate progress of the cell cycle. In order to do this, wild type Chlamydomonas were grown in liquid cultures in a 12 hour light:12 hour dark cycle to synchronize growth. Since we know from other researchers that cells are in G1 during daylight and complete the cell cycle with division during the night, we used this pattern to determine the ideal time of the cell cycle to introduce mutations. We are interested in causing mutations in genes that regulate the transition from G1 to S phase and expect the most success if the mutation causing chemical in introduced during this time. For that reason we chose to introduce ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) a few hours before the end of the light phase on the second and third days of the culture in separate experiments (approximately 32 and 56 hours). We are screening mutagenized cells to identify colonies whose mutation allows their cell cycle to proceed normally at room temperature (25°C), but prevents them from growing successfully at 30°C. Temperature sensitive mutants are useful because we can maintain a strain with a mutation in an essential cell cycle gene at room temperature when complete loss of gene function would likely kill the cell. |
Title: | Biomechanics of Anolis carolinensis |
Author(s): | Anna Luckey |
Abstract: | My senior research is on the biomechanics of Anolis carolinensis. I made a viewing box out of plexiglass that was 3.5' x 1.5' x 15' on the inside. The viewing box was designed so that Anolis carolinensis could not climb up the side, and therefore would walk on the flat surface. In order to study its biomechanics, Anolis carolinensis was placed in the viewing box and I recorded its walking with a video camera. I then attached the video camera to a computer and transferred the video into Videopoint. The data will be analyzed and put into an Excel spreadsheet. The limb length, limb angle, tail position, displacement, velocity, and acceleration will be calculated by using the equations found in a journal article by Bruce C. Jayne. If time allows, I will record the walking at an incline, since they are arboreal animals. I am doing a senior research project on the biomechanics in order to gain a greater understanding of biomechanics in general so I am able to relate that to humans and my career in physical therapy. |
Title: | Design of a Chlamydomonas Reporter Strain Regulated by Circadian Rhythms |
Author(s): | Martee MacLeod |
Abstract: | The aim of this project is to study circadian rhythms using the organism Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Circadian rhythms correspond to the biological clocks of organisms, which are set to a daily environmental cycle of twenty-four hours. Study of these cycles is important because many behavioral activities, and biochemical and physiological processes seem to follow circadian rhythms. Chlamydomonas is a single celled green algae that is ideal for this project because evidence suggests that even in multicellular organisms, resetting of the rhythm to the changing day length must occur within each individual cell. I am working to create a Chlamydomonas strain that includes a luciferase gene under the control of the promoter (regulatory region) for the light harvesting complex b (lhcb) gene. The lhcb gene is expressed only once in a twenty-four hour period so placing the lhcb gene promoter in front of the luciferase gene should result in luciferase only being expressed when lhcb is expressed. This new strain of Chlamydomonas is called a reporter strain because the presence of the luciferase protein is easy to measure due to the fact that when it modifies its substrate it produces measurable light. After transformation of the C. reinhardtii, the organisms will be screened to determine which individuals have correctly integrated the luciferase gene. Although the scope of this project is just to create the strain of Chlamydomonas that contains the luciferase construct, the new strain will ultimately be useful for identifying other genes that regulate the circadian rhythm in Chlamydomonas. |
Title: | Semester in Africa - African Healthcare |
Author(s): | Malia Mann and Timothy Uldrich |
Abstract: | This was an independent study that we performed while studying abroad in Africa. The purpose was to observe numerous healthcare facilities in the countries in which we visited. After observing these facilities we compared and contrasted them to one another and compiled our results into a report. We will be displaying these results in the poster as well as pictures of the facilities. |
Title: | Prairie Dog Detector |
Author(s): | Preston Meints and Benjamin Good |
Abstract: | The Doane College Biology Department maintains a research site near Grafton, Nebraska that contains a large prairie dog colony. The prairie dogs utilize runways through tall grass to travel between probable coteries in the colony. Dr. Souchek and his students for the past summer had been studying the behaviors of the prairie dogs, and now want to determine what animals use the runways under specific conditions. To facilitate research the Digital Electronics class under the supervision of Dr. Plano Clark was approached concerning the development of a detection and data acquisition device. After careful consideration of possible techniques we determined that an infrared photogate would be most appropriate. After consultation with Dr. Souchek we included in our design parameters direction detection, a count of events, temperature, time, barometric pressure, and ideally photographs of the animals using the runways. Problems dealing with weather, environment, camouflage ability, memory requirements, and form factor had to be considered during design.To bring the project to completion, Preston Meints and Benjamin Good took over the development and implementation of the detector as a directed study. Preston has been designing and building the housings, support structure and schemes of concealment. Benjamin is heading up the development and construction of the electronics and logic control. We expect to have a fully functional prototype in place by late April of 2003. |
Title: | Design of a Chlamydomonas Reporter Strain Regulated by Circadian Rhythms |
Author(s): | Melissa Meyer and Jeremy Rose |
Abstract: | Organisms synchronize their daily activities to the changing day length over the seasons by a mechanism called the circadian rhythm. In this project, we are attempting to create a strain of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii that express a luciferase protein under the control of a circadian rhythm gene. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is a single-celled green algae useful for this type of research because evidence suggests that even in multicellular organisms, resetting of the rhythm to the changing day length must occur within each individual cell. Copies of the luciferase construct have been produced and will be transformed into a strain of Chlamydomonas so that the luciferase enzyme will only be synthesized at a specific time in the circadian cycle. The luciferase enzyme is useful because it catalyzes a reaction that produces measurable light. Although the scope of this project is just to create the strain of Chlamydomonas that contains the luciferase construct, the strain will ultimately be useful for identifying other genes that regulate the circadian rhythm in Chlamydomonas. We will be able to do this by looking for mutations that change the pattern of luciferase expression and therefore the pattern of measurable light. |
Title: | Generation of a Specific Nutritional Mutant of Staphylococcus Aureus |
Author(s): | Tim Mitchell |
Abstract: | Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive coccus. That is a common member of normal human flora. It is an opportunistic pathogen that has a high potential for acquiring resistance to antibiotics. There is the possibility that the mutation of antibiotic resistant Staphylococcus aureus is generated by the use and overuse of antibiotic medication and antibiotic chemicals. Research can be furthered in this area upon the generation of a specific nutritional mutant by means of testing for back mutations of these bacteria once they are exposed to different stressors. Ultraviolet light is a known mutagen: it is strongly absorbed by DNA at 260 nm. By exposing Staphylococcus aureus to ultraviolet light for an allotted amount of time there is the potential for the development of a specific nutritional mutation. Upon this development there is a large amount of tests which may be conducted to test the specificities of the mutations caused by antibiotics and antibiotic chemicals on Staphylococcus aureus. |
Title: | Comparison of Microbial Diversity in an Adjoining Wetland System. |
Author(s): | Jason R. Moore |
Abstract: | Comparison of microbial diversity in an adjoining wetland system.Wetlands and rainwater basins are an integral part of chemical degradation in surface to groundwater exchange. This process is directly affected by the ability of microorganisms to degrade excess wastes and chemicals through degradation pathways prompted by genes present in the microbial communities. The numbers and diversity of microbes is directly affected by bioturbation caused by animal presence and excess chemicals. The purpose of determining the diversity of the wetland is to correlate if bioturbation provides a greater diversity of microbes that have the ability to use excess nutrients and effectively neutralize the water coming through the wetland. The south wetland in the study has been open to grazing be domesticated bovine, houses two prairie dog colonies, and is a stopping point for migratory birds. The north wetland, covered by cattails, has only been open to migratory birds; however, both sides collect run off from surrounding agricultural fields. To determine diversity, soil samples were taken from three sites on each side of the wetland, plated, and total cultureable numbers were counted. Whole community DNA was collected from the soil samples, combined, and then subjected to a thermal renaturing curve to obtain an estimate of total species present. The plated cultures yielded a red bacterium, which was isolated and subjected to PCR to determine its role and phylogenetic placement in the wetland. 16s rDNA genes of community DNA were amplified and sequenced as part of the diversity study. |
Title: | An Exploration of the Doane College Intranet |
Author(s): | Sarah Naeher |
Abstract: | The Doane College Intranet is a Web site that was first developed three years ago through work-study at the Office of Technology. Initially designed to provide the students, faculty and staff with pertinent information related to the college, the site expanded to include handbooks, announcements, academic links and technological and recreational resources. A senior project with the IST department recently developed automated pages that display events for the current day. The presentation will address the services and resources offered by the site in addition to a brief exploration of its history. |
Title: | Oxyphilic Cells of the Parathyroid Gland |
Author(s): | Dana Nelsen and Daniel Schneider |
Abstract: | There is very little known about the oxyphilic cells of the parathyroid gland. We have done a histological study using several different tissue stains to research the composition of these cells. |
Title: | Virtual Prairie Dog Simulation using Genetic Programming |
Author(s): | Jason R. Nelson |
Abstract: | This student research project involved designing and implementing a simulation of the behavior of black-tailed prairie dogs using genetic programming techniques. This simulation program will be used as a tool in the ongoing research of prairie dogs at Doane College. For this project, specific behaviors of actual prairie dogs were observed and recorded. The behaviors modeled for this simulation were the head bob and standing alert. The simulation model was developed using genetic programming from initial data obtained during observation of prairie dogs. The simulation model will be verified by comparing the actual behavior data to simulated behavior data. If the prairie dog is effectively modeled, one could not tell whether data was from a real prairie dog or a simulated prairie dog. The program will be then wrapped in a user interface. The purpose of this paper is to describe the process of creating a virtual prairie dog using genetic programming. Specifically, this paper will include a discussion of: 1) the black-tailed prairie dog and the behaviors modeled, 2) the initial data collected and used to develop the simulation, 3) the genetic programming technique used to develop the simulated model, 4) the testing of the simulated model to ensure it accurately reflected the behavior of a real prairie dog, and 5) the planned user interface that will be created to allow for user interaction.The presentation will include a demonstration of the virtual prairie dog. |
Title: | Modeling Your Circulatory System |
Author(s): | Adam Prior |
Abstract: | The blood flows throughout the body through the circulatory system and can be simulated using tubes. In this experiment we found that the flow rate through the circulatory system is dependent on the radius, length, pressure, the fluid density, and viscosity of the fluid. This relationship is derived in Poiseuille's Law and helps us understand how the blood flows throughout the body. |
Title: | Effect of Wavelength Variation upon Germination, Growth and Reproduction of Brassica rapa |
Author(s): | Erin Rodie and Joe Adams |
Abstract: | In photosynthetic organisms, such as plants and some bacteria, light energy is harvested by photosynthetic pigments and converted into organic molecules used for energy; however, these pigments absorb light from only a portion of the visible light spectrum. Chlorophyll pigments in plants absorb red, blue and violet wavelengths with peaks at 660nm and 440nm, and reflect green light, lending to the green appearance of plants. In this experiment, the wavelengths of light allowed to reach the plants were limited by growing Brassica rapa (Wisconsin Fast Plants) in growth chambers outfitted with different colors of acrylic facing the light source. Brassica rapa was selected as the test plant because it has an extremely fast life cycle (35 to 45 days from germination to seed production) and is relatively hardy. Twenty individuals were grown under each of five light conditions: blue, green, red, and clear acrylic, or directly under light the source (control). Variations in germination, size, development and flower and fruit production were noted and compared to the same in the individuals grown in control conditions. As expected, the plants grown under clear acrylic and control conditions thrived, completing a normal life cycle and producing seedpods; however, those individuals grown under the green and blue acrylic did not develop much beyond germination, and those that grew under red acrylic were developmentally delayed. |
Title: | Doane College Radio Database |
Author(s): | Gene Romero |
Abstract: | For my senior seminar project, I created a working database application for the Doane College radio station. The database stores a library of songs and information to help the DJs in their responsibilities. It allows the DJs to search for songs by the CD or the artist. It also provides the administrator of the database application the ability to work with songs and artists. The administrator functions are password protected to provide a level of security. My poster session will describe the process I went through in recognizing the need for such an application; analyzing the user requirements; designing the database including the tables, relationships, forms, and reports; implementing the database design particularly focusing on the necessary VBA coding; and providing a support plan for the application. I will also provide a demonstration of my application |
Title: | MRSA on Non-Living Surfaces of Long-Term Care Facilities in Southeastern Nebraska |
Author(s): | Greg Schlegel |
Abstract: | MRSA on non-living surfaces of long-term care facility in Southeastern Nebraska. Staphylococcus aureus is gram-positive cocci that has the ability to acquire resistance to a number of different antibiotics. This organism is a particular health hazard in health care settings because it is easily transmitted among people with compromised immune systems. Over time, its resistance to antibiotics has become greater and wider spread, thus, it is becoming extremely difficult to treat. The purpose of this project was to examine long-term care facilities in Southeastern Nebraska and observe if non-living surfaces are occupied by MRSA. Permission was received to do testing at five different facilities. At each facility, five different non-living surfaces were sampled which included hand rails, sink knobs, bathroom doorknobs, TV remotes, and bed rails. The process of sampling was done by swabbing the area to be tested then plating the sample on mannitol salt agar plates, which is selective for S. aureus. After incubation, mannitol-fermenting colonies were stained and tentatively identified as S. aureus. Once identified, a lawn of bacteria was made on tryptic soy agar, with a methicillin disk placed in the middle to test resistance. Of the 125 samples, forty-eight (38.4%) yielded S. aureus. Of those forty-eight isolates, thirty-one (65%) showed resistance to the methicillin. These results show a high prevalence of MRSA at these sites. Because S. aureus is a common inhabitant of the skin, it is important for these facilities to attempt to better disinfect surfaces that are commonly contacted by human skin. |
Title: | Health Benefits of Red Wine Consumption |
Author(s): | Daniel Schneider |
Abstract: | We often hear reports on television and in the newspaper that alcohol consumption can provide certain health benefits. My poster will contain information from several scientific experiments that that test the effects of alcohol in a person's health. |
Title: | Developing Physics Animations Using Macromedia Flash |
Author(s): | Patrick Slane |
Abstract: | The purpose of this project is to create multimedia learning tools for introductory physics. Using Macromedia Flash and its built in language ActionScript allows us to animate physical motions of objects. We can also program the animations to allow student manipulation of initial conditions. Examples of physics-based animations will be shown from the subjects of projectile motion and motion through a viscous fluid. |
Title: | Plant Biodiversity in a Rainwater Basin |
Author(s): | Heidi Smith |
Abstract: | There are three general kinds of biodiversity: habitat diversity, genetic diversity, and species diversity. The survival of each is linked to the health of the other two, and together they comprise the wealth of ecosystems - the biotic community and its abiotic environment functioning as a system. Species diversity includes both the species richness and evenness. The diversity increases as the number of individuals in the total population are more equitably distributed among the species. Ecosystem function can be profoundly affected by the action of animals and other organisms. A rainwater basin in Fillmore County, NE, at the Aldrich Prairie Research Site, was selected for a study of the effect of grazing cattle on wetland plant biodiversity. This basin is bisected by a county road into pristine (undisturbed) and bioturbated sections (result of grazing of cattle). One square meter transects were marked on each side of the wetland. Plant species were counted and recorded in each transect throughout the summer of 2002. Plant specimens were also collected and identified from each side of the wetland to determine the variety of plant species present in the pristine vs. disturbed wetland areas. The disturbed side had more plant species in the total area and in each transect, and greater species richness. The increase of plant biodiversity lead to an increase in vertebrate animal habitats as a greater number of animal species were observed. The increase in both animal and plant species resulted in greater species richness in the disturbed wetland ecosystem. |
Title: | Antimicrobial Properties of Paddlefish Mucus |
Author(s): | April Smith |
Abstract: | Fish skin is covered with mucus that, in some species, may possess antimicrobial properties against bacterial agents found in their natural environment. This study tested the antimicrobial potency of the epidermal mucus from Polyodon spathula, the paddlefish. Some crude mucus collected from the live fish was purified by autoclaving and syringe filtration through a Millipore filter. The test bacteria included S. aureus, E. coli, S. faecalis, P. aeruginosa, S. epidermis, P. fluorescens, E. faecalis, M. luteus, B. megaterium, B. subtilis, and Acinetobacter calcoacetius. All three versions of the mucus, crude, autoclaved, and syringe filtered were applied to bacterial lawns of each bacterium on both TSA and Mueller Hinton agar media. Zones of inhibition were measured after 24 hours of incubation and compared to zones of inhibition for four standard antibiotics on the same bacteria. The antibiotics used were Penicillin G, Polymyxcin B, Ciproflaxin, and Tetracycline. None of the versions of the paddlefish mucus were found to arrest growth of any of the aforementioned bacteria. |
Title: | The Duodenum |
Author(s): | Abby Soterin, Jarrod McAlevy, Cory Williams, Abby Conner, Mark Gustafson |
Abstract: | The duodemun is the first, shortest, and widest part of the small intestine. It receives a partially digested bolus of food called chyme from the stomach, as well as secretions from the stomach, pancreas, liver, and gallbladder. These secretions contain digestive enzymes, enzyme precursors, and other products that aid digestion and absorption in the small intestine. There are many different structures of the duodenum as well as many different tissues. Each of these structures and tissues have their own functions and they work together to perform the overall function of the duodenum. Our poster will represent structures of the duodenum, their locations and functions. |
Title: | Analyzing Energy Transformation with Digital Video |
Author(s): | Justin Stark |
Abstract: | It is very useful to study "real life" situations in order to stimulate interest in the physics classroom. Sports are "real life" situations that many people are interested in and can relate to. One physics concept that many sports incorporate is energy transformation. Energy transformation can be studied in such sporting events as archery and pole vault. I used digital video to capture the motion of these sporting events and then analyzed the motion using computer software. Due to the velocity of the motion, the archery required a high-speed camera capable of capturing at 10,000 frames per second. It's interesting to study the energy transformation of the human onto a compound bow and then the bow onto the arrow. This involves finding the force it takes to pull the bow back and the velocity of the arrow as it leaves the bow. From this information it can be determined how efficient the compound bow really is. For the pole vault videos, I used a DV camera that is capable of 30 frames per second. It's interesting to study the energy transformation within the pole and determine how much energy is lost. This involves finding the velocity of the person by following his/her center of mass. The complication is that the center of mass of the person changes throughout the motion; ideally, the center of mass needs to be calculated for every frame. |
Title: | Lego Web Camera |
Author(s): | Philip Stiles |
Abstract: | My project involves the development of a webcam made of Legos that can be viewed and controlled across the web. The webcam is normally controlled by software made by the Lego company; however, this software won't work over the web, so different software has to be used. The Lego camera is connected to a laptop along with an RCX brick. The RCX brick is responsible for controlling the manual movement of the camera stand. A program on the laptop called WebRCX communicates with a web server. There is a java applet on the server that directs communication between the user and the camera connected to the laptop. The laptop also has a program called iVista that is responsible for the streaming of videos. A software development kit called SDK 2.0 is downloaded on the laptop from the Lego website. This program is necessary for the communication between the WebRCX program and the RCX brick. Users control the camera by going to dc3.doane.edu/webbot. When they arrive at this page a java applet appears. In the middle of the applet the user should see video from the camera. The applet shows streaming video as opposed to multiple snap shots. There are manual controls on the left and right of the video that allow a user to manipulate the camera. My poster session will include a discussion of the process I went through in analyzing, designing, and implementing the webcam. I will also demonstrate the webcam and the website. |
Title: | Trucking Logbook Database |
Author(s): | Rich Stranberg |
Abstract: | Over the years, the truck driving industry has transformed the way its drivers keep track of their logbook information. In the past, drivers had to keep track of their driving time, trip information, and carrier information using a paper logbook. With computers becoming cheaper and software becoming more task specific and user friendly, the advent of paperless logbooks is finding its place in the industry. Using Microsoft Access, one is able to create a program that would allow drivers to enter all the information they used to put into their paper logbook into a paperless database program. This makes it easier for a driver to enter, track, and view their information. My project involved the analysis, design, and implementation of a paperless logbook implemented using Microsoft Access for the trucking industry. The purpose of this project was to create an application that makes it easier and more efficient for truck drivers to keep track of their logbook information and perhaps to even make the process of logging more enjoyable. My presentation will overview the analysis and design of my paperless logbook followed by a discussion of implementation issues. I will also be demonstrating the final product. |
Title: | Prairie Dog Bloodwork |
Author(s): | TJ Uldrich |
Abstract: | This project envolves the capturing of prairie dogs to aquire a blood sample. After the blood sample has been aquired, I will perform a differential white blood cell count, as well as a procedure to determine red blood cell percentage. |
Title: | Predator Awareness and Population Counts of Blacktailed Prairie Dogs |
Author(s): | V. Woody Walstrom |
Abstract: | Predator Awareness & Population Counts of Blacktail Prairie Dogs. I am currently investigating predator awareness and population at the Doane College Aldrich Prairie Research Site. I placed flag makers on burrows to help note where in the colony I was making observations and measured the size of the study area. The current estimate is about one hectare. Data suggests that tallgrass prairie, and its higher biomass, may be able to support more prairie dogs than those found in South Dakota. John Hoogland, studying in South Dakota, proposed a population estimate is 14-22 prairie dogs per hectare. From casual observations one area at the PRS has at least 40 prairie dogs, and probably has even more. The colony is currently the most eastern one in the state, and it may show how important tallgrass prairie can be by simply supporting larger numbers of animals. My hypothesis is that human disturbance has forced the prairie dogs to develop a more alert colony. Summer data suggested this finding; however, recent data, using updated software, suggests that they are making only 4 headbobs/min while in Hoogland's study they made 5 headbobs/ min. Recent standing alert data indicates a higher number of approximately 36 standing alerts/hr. This fall 20-25 sa/hr were seen while Hoogland was getting 10-11 sa/hr. This means that currently the prairie dogs use the standing alert fairly often. It is possible that the prairie dogs are more aware now than before. For time elapse data on one prairie dog I recorded an average use of 1.537 sec/hb. Hoogland was getting 5.08 +/- 3.39 sec/hb. This means that the PRS prairie dogs are, so far, not devoting much time to headbobs. |
Title: | Using the Presence of Specific Mn-Oxidizing Genes to Detect the Presence of Manganese-Oxidizing Bacteria in Nebraska Well Water |
Author(s): | Cory J. Williams |
Abstract: | Using the presence of specific Mn-oxidizing genes to detect the presence of Manganese-Oxidizing Bacteria in Nebraska well water |
Title: | Determination of the Presence of Streptococcus Pneumoniae on Working Surfaces in Assisted Living Facilities |
Author(s): | Chris Wittgren |
Abstract: | Streptococcus pneumonia is a gram positive, diplococci that is mostly anaerobic and often found in a lancet or chain shape. The presence of S. pneunonia causes alpha hemolysis on blood agar, giving the agar an incomplete greenish cast. The onset of the disease caused by S.pneumonia is sudden and involves shaking chill, pleural pain and intense coughing. In recent years, S. pneumonia has become one of the leading silent killers among the elderly in assisted living facilities all over the United States. In a healthy person pneumococci are commonly found in the upper respiratory tract usually having no effect on the individual's health, but in the elderly most have a weakened immune system allowing S. pneumonia to sometimes be fatal. This study attempts to determine if assisted living facilities serve as reservoirs to the undesired bacterium. In the experiment, samples were collected from a random selection of five assisted living facilities throughout the Saline and Lancaster County areas. From each facility, five swabs were collected and plated onto sheep blood agar media from five different transmittable surfaces. These plates were incubated for 2 days then tested for the presence of S.pneumonia by visual examination. Rate of occurrence of S.pneumonia was determined by a comparison of positive isolates, containing bacterium, to the number of total samples collected in the experiment. This information may be useful not only to assisted living facilities involved in the experiment, but to all assisted living facilities in their determination of cleaning procedures used to fight illness. |