Fourteenth Annual Undergraduate Research
and Creative Arts Symposium
Abstracts
Daniel Aguilar
"Development of a Quantification Method for Gentamicin Using Gas Chromotography-Mass Spectrometry"
Major: Biology and Theatre Arts
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Elba Serrano, Biology
Supplemental Advisor: Dr. Antonio Lara, Chemistry
HHMI
Aminoglycosides such as gentamicin are antibiotics with nephrotoxic and ototoxic side effects. Gentamicin is widely used in biomedical applications and a potential problem is that commercially its components come in undefined amounts. The ability to measure gentamicin levels in tissues and in the environment facilitates experiments that seek to understand the impact of gentamicin on biological systems. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) affords a sensitive and accurate analytical method for chemical detection. Due to their chemical structure, size, and polarity, aminoglycosides are difficult to analyze with GC. Gentamicin is a three ring structure with larger molecular weight containing both amine and hydroxl groups which need to be derivitized to improve gentamicin's volatility. This project provides proof of concept for use of one ring surrogate molecules of similar structure to the gentamicin components for GC-MS analysis. A successful, chemical ionization and selective ion monitoring method for GC-MS has been previously reported for the successful identification of the C1, C2, and C3 major components of the antibiotic. This preliminary project involves experimentation with chemical derivitization, and GC-MS method development. The refined GC-MS method would allow for quantification of the components of gentamicin for laboratory research and environmental detection. Research supported by NIH SCORE S06GM008136.
Karla B. Almaraz
"Comparison of Gene Delivery Methods in Cultured Cells"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Elba E. Serrano, Biology
RISE
Our laboratory routinely uses transient transfection methods to express cloned genes for ion channels and cytoskeletal proteins in cultured cell lines and whole inner ear organs. Here we report results of experiments that compare the efficiency of three different gene delivery methods used in our laboratory: lipid-mediated delivery (Lipofectamine TM 2000 Transfection Reagent), viral-mediated delivery (BacMam Technology) and electroporation (Eppendorf Multiporator). These methods were used to transfect or transduce Xenopus A6 and CHO cell lines with genes encoding tubulin fused to two different fluorescence proteins. Plasmid pEYFP-Tub (Clontech) was utilized for both lipid-mediated delivery and electroporation and the Cellular Lights TM Tubulin-RFP baculovirus (Invitrogen) was utilized for viral-mediated delivery. Transfected or transduced cells were grown for 24 hours, then fixed and counterstained with Hoechst 33342 and either Alexa Fluor® 488 phalloidin or Alexa Fluor® 568 phalloidin. Fixed samples then were viewed with an epifluorescence microscope and the MetaVue™ Imaging System software. Images were captured with a CoolSNAP™ HQ CCD camera and further analyzed using the MetaMorph® Offline Imaging System software. Transfection or transduction efficiencies were calculated by counting cells showing tubulin fluorescence and comparing these values with total cell counts determined with the Hoechst stain. The preliminary results suggest that electroporation methods are more efficient than either lipid (Lipofectamine) or viral (BacMam) gene delivery methods. Research support: NIH NIGMS R25GM061222, NIH NIDCD R01DC003292).
Cassandra Amesoli
"Identification of Rap1 Interacting Genes in the Eye of Drosophila melanogaster"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Jennifer Curtiss Ph.D., Biology
MARC
In multi-cellular organisms, cell adhesion (CA) plays a crucial role in processes such as formation and maintenance of internal organs and tissues. Improper CA can lead to serious diseases, including cancer. CA is mediated by cell adhesion molecules (CAM's) located at specific sites at the cell surface. The localization of CAM's is regulated in part by the small guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) Rap1, but the mechanisms by which Rap1 functions remain largely unknown. We performed a genetic screen to identify genes that interact with Rap1 in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. For this screen we crossed fly stocks containing deletions of various genomic regions on all four Drosophila chromosomes to flies that have a gain-of-function allele of Rap1, which causes a disruption in the highly ordered pattern of facets in the fly eye. Enhancement or suppression of the severity of the Rap1 eye phenotype by a deletion indicates the presence of a potential Rap1-interacting gene(s) in the deletion. Of 130 deletion stocks, three enhanced the Rap1 rough eye phenotype. Chromosomal deletions in these stocks have been analyzed to identify candidate genes likely to interact with Rap1. These candidate genes will be evaluated for their ability to regulate cell adhesion via Rap1.
Grant #NIH GMO7667-31
Zena Archie
"Addition of Several Supplements to Modify a Selective Plating Medium for Isolation of Helicobacter pylori from Municipal Water or Sewage Water"
Major: Environmental Science
Faculty Advisor: Geoffrey B. Smith, Biology
RISE
Helicobacter pylori infection has been associated with a spectrum of gastrodoudenal diseases including gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric carcinomas. To date, there is no standard method for detecting H. pylori in water samples. The objective of this study was to evaluate the addition of several supplements to a selective medium previously developed in our lab to grow H. pylori in order to promote H. pylori recovery from wastewater and to increase selectivity of the plating media. Several supplements were tested: cefsulodin, urea, ferrous sulfate, mucin, arginine, and the pH of the medium was lowered to pH 5. A known concentration of H. pylori ATCC 43504 pure culture was plated and oxidase-positive colonies were PCR amplified with primers specific for the H. pylori urease A gene. The use of ferrous sulfate promoted the growth of H. pylori 43504 colonies (as measured by increased colony size), and when used with influent wastewater samples, it enhanced the growth of putative H. pylori colonies. PCR products of the amplified urease A gene of putative H. pylori colonies from wastewater samples were weaker than H. pylori pure cultures, but were the correct size (135bp). This work is supported by RISE Program, Grant No. NIH GM61222.
Jim Armendariz
"Adaptation of warm-season annual legumes for forage in southeastern New Mexico"
Major: Animal Science
Faculty Advisor: Sergio Soto-Navarro, Animal and Range Sciences
AMP, URA
Six warm-season annual legumes were used in a completely randomized block design (4 replicates per legume) to assess the adaptation to Southeast New Mexico and to determine forage yield potential and forage nutritive value. The legumes used were lablab-1 (Lablab purpureus L, cv Rio verde), lablab-2 (Lablab purpureus L, cv Rongai), cowpea-1 (Vigna unguiculta L, cv Iron and Clay), cowpea-2 (Vigna unguiculta L, cv Catjang), trailing wildbean (Strophodtyles helvula L, cv TX-00H1), and smooth-seeded wildbean (Strophodtyles leiosperma, cv TX-00-L1). The land was divided in 4 blocks with each block containing each legume. Each legume was sown in a 1.2 x 4.5-m plot size, 4 rows/plot, and 0.3 m separation between rows. Each experimental unit had a 1.5-m separation. Soil was a Reagan clay loam. Each plot was fertilized with 220 kg P2O5/ha and 180 kg K2O/ha, based on recommendations for alfalfa. Nitrogen was not applied on any plot. Legumes were irrigated 3 times before harvest. Beans were harvested 1 time in September, 82 d after planting. All plots were hand clipped at a stubble height of 3.8 cm. Smooth-wildbean did not germinate on any of the 4 replicates and trailing wildbean had very low germination. However, lablab-1 and lablab-2, and cowpea-1 were the legumes with greater (P < 0.05) DM yield. Lablab-1 and lablab-2 produced similar yield, but an average 0.5 ton/ha more (P < 0.05) than cowpea-1 and 2.0 ton/ha more (P < 0.05) than cowpea-2 and trailing wildbean. All 5 legumes had good quality characteristics; CP concentration ranged from 18 to 22%, NDF concentration from 26 to 34%, ADF concentration from 23 to 28%, and NE for lactation (NEL) from 1.52 to 1.63 Mcal/kg. In vitro DM digestibility was lower for trailing wildbean (38.2 ± 0.01 %) than the other legumes which ranged from 45.2 to 48.6 (± 0.01) %. Considering that beans were sown in June and only harvested 1 time, the DM yield can be considered acceptable for this region. Results suggest that these warm-season annual legumes have potential for Southeast New Mexico to fit in the forage production system or crop rotation system.
Christopher Arrigo
"Dairy Manure-based Microbial Fuel Cells"
Major: Environmental Science
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Geoffrey Smith, Biology
NM Space Grant
Conversion of agricultural wastes into energy sources such as methane, hydrogen or electricity is desirable because it converts a common waste into an important resource. The conversion of organic material directly into electricity can be accomplished using a microbial fuel cell as long as appropriate microorganisms are available that donate electrons to a suitable electrode. The purpose of this study was to characterize the voltage production from dairy manure incubated in two types of fuel cell reactors, one custom-made by a glass blower, the other assembled from a commercial filtration unit. Commercial membrane electrodes (5-10 cm dia.) were used with Nafion 117 (BASF Fuel Cell Corp.), with the biologically active material on the anode side, and open air on the cathode side. Measurements were taken with in-line 1000 ohm resistors. Using only manure in the fuel cell, both systems supported 200 - 800 mvolt levels of production directly from the manure after a lag period of approximately 30 hours, and the levels of production were positively correlated with the mass of manure used. In a manure-free system, cultures of Escherichia coli K-12 in tryptic soy broth, or in a phosphate buffer, produced similar levels of electricity. Using this known culture system, work is on-going to identify the role of catalysts, electron donors and acceptors in the process, and to develop a more economical membrane electrode.
Aung Bajaj
"The Plasticity of Skeletal Muscles and their Conversion into Specialized Tissues"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Graciela Unguez, Biology
Honors Thesis
Muscle physiology and cell-to-cell communication are crucial to understanding the plasticity of skeletal muscles. The function of skeletal muscles is to produce force. Skeletal muscles, being attached to bones, enable us to carry out our daily tasks, such as eating, walking, talking, etc. Some animals, however, have through evolution acquired the ability to change this function. Some oceanic fishes need to heat their brains and eyes when they are diving into deep waters. Accordingly, they developed a heater organ underneath their brains. Another marine fish evolved the ability to produce mating calls by a sound-producing organ that surrounds the intrinsic swimbladder. Contracting over 200 Hz, muscles in this sound organ are the fastest known to humans. Lastly, a nocturnal predator of the Northern California coast evolved a light-producing organ which gives it an advantage to attract prey in the dark. All these organs are unique because they come from skeletal muscles that have lost force-producing properties, but have gained new functions. The transformation from a force-generating tissue to distinct energy-producing tissues has resulted in novelties that provide an evolutionary advantage to these animals. How these extreme conversions of skeletal muscle come about is the focus of this review.
Renee Benallie
"Effects of Hypoxia on Wnt-Chemokine Interactions During Melanoma Metastasis"
Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Barbara Lyons, Biochemistry
RISE
We have previously shown that Wnt5A can increase melanoma cell motility. Here, we show that melanoma cells, when subjected to hypoxia, acquire a morphological change characteristic of an EMT (epithelial to mesenchymal transition), and that this change can also occur upon chemokine treatment. This change is accompanied by a strong increase in actin polymerization and co-localization of Rac1. In this study, we evaluated the hypothesis that the chemokine CXCL12 (SDF1α) increases when subjected to hypoxia, and in turn activates and increases Wnt5A, increasing melanoma cell motility. Using Western analysis, real-time PCR, zymography, immunofluorescence, and motility assays, we were able to show that Wnt5A requires CXCL12, which in turn requires HIF-1α for activation. This regulation is reciprocal as Hif-1α also requires CXCL12 in order to increase Wnt5A. Together these data allow us to better understand the mechanisms that mediate the early stages of tumor progression.
Owen Boberg
"The Elasticity of (Fe,Ni) Alloys and the Composition of the Earth's Core"
Major: Physics
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Boris Kiefer, Physics
The Earth's core is the most remote and least accessible part in the interior of our planet. Several lines of astronomical and cosmochemical evidence support the notion that the composition of the core is dominated by iron-rich (Fe1-x,Nix) alloys, with x~0.1. Experimental and theoretical studies suggest that (Fe,Ni) alloys are too dense as compared to independent geophysical and seismological observations. Thus, one or possibly several light elements are required in order to reconcile core models and observations. In contrast to the presence and abundance of nickel, the identity and abundance of the light element(s) remains unknown.
We are interested in the effects of varying amounts of Ni on the elasticity of the (FeNi)-alloys. Our approach is based on state-of-the-art first-principle calculations. that makes no assumptions about the nature of bonding. We will present and discus our results for 3.1 at%, 6.2 at%, and 12.5 at% nickel content. Understanding the effects of nickel on elastic properties of iron-rich alloys will provide identity a baseline for the identification of the light element(s). Knowing the identity of the light element(s) will give insights into the conditions in the solar system at the time of formation of the Earth's core.
Alexandru Boje
"3D Reconstruction of Xenopus laevis Organs from Optical Coherence Tomography Scans"
Major: Chemical Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Elba Serrano, Biology
RISE
Three dimensional (3D) models facilitate the analysis of intricate anatomical structures like the Xenopus laevis inner ear and brain. Models may be reconstructed from a variety of digital image sources and image types. We used optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans that were stored and processed in the tagged image file format (TIFF) to ensure lossless compression of image data. The raw TIFF files were batch filtered using Adobe Photoshop 7.0 and then imported into the software package Amira 4.0. Three dimensional models were rendered using the manual and automated surface generation functions of Amira. These 3D models aid the visualization of X. laevis anatomy by allowing free rotation and virtual slicing. The surfaces of the models can be used to easily calculate variables such as volume and surface area. In the future, higher quality OCT scans or histological sections could be used to improve the resolution of the three dimensional models. Research supported by the NIH (NIGMS R25GM061222, SCORE S06GM008136, NIDCD R01DC003292, and MIT CDP P50GM068762).
Kayle Brooks
"Overexpression of maize Sucrose phosphate Synthase in Medicago sativa (alfalfa)"
Major: Microbiology
Faculty Advisor: Champa S-Gopalan, Plant & Environmental Sciences
Sucrose-phosphate synthase (SPS) plays a key role in controlling the flux of carbon into sucrose biosynthesis. SPS converts UDP-Glucose and Fructose 6P to Sucrose 6P, which is subsequently hydrolyzed by sucrose phosphate phosphatase (SPP) to release sucrose. Sucrose produced in photosynthetic tissues of leaves is the main carbohydrate transported into the heterotrophic tissues including the root nodule, where sucrose is metabolized initially by sucrose Synthase (SuSy). To determine how increased sucrose synthesis will effect nodule function (nitrogen fixation and assimilation) and plant performance, a maize SPS B gene member driven by the 35S constitutive promoter was introduced into alfalfa. Several putative transformants have been selected by their ability to grow on antibiotic selection (Kanamycin). Putative transformants will be analyzed for the presence of the transgene at the level of transcript and protein accumulation and activity of SPS will be assayed.
Charlene Carr
"Development of an Efficient Transformation and Regeneration System for Chile (Capsicum annuum)"
Major: Soils
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Champa S. Gopalan, Plant and Environmental Science
HHMI, MARC
Chili pepper is a high value crop worldwide, is a good source of vitamins A, C and B-complex, and the fruit's hot principles are used as therapeutic agents. With southwestern and New Mexico crop production at 90% there is stiff competition with foreign markets such as Korea, China, Mexico and India due to cheaper labor and field costs. Chili are still susceptible to different biotic (phytopathogenic fungi, bacteria, viruses, insects) and abiotic (extreme temperature, moisture, salt, light, air pollutants and pesticides) factors. Susceptibility to these factors can cause extensive losses in yield, quality and performance of chili plants. While traditional breeding techniques have been of great value, biotechnological techniques involving plant tissue culture and recombinant DNA technologies could be powerful auxiliary tools to accelerate and achieve genetic improvement. We first standardize chile regeneration in tissue culture using several New Mexico chili cultivars. We have further used an agro-infiltration procedure, a powerful transient expression system, to better understand the interactions and infection capabilities of different chili cultivars and Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains. Here we report a successful whole plant regeneration system after transformation using explants from seedlings with high regeneration potential. β-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene is used for screening the putative transformants.
Jose L Castellano
"The Search for Hydrogen on the Southern Hemisphere of the Lunar Surface"
Major: Physics/Astronomy
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Boris Kiefer, Physics
NASA Research
The moon is an ideal outpost for human exploration of the solar system. This possibility shifted from the realm of sheer science fiction into a more public view with the successful completion of Apollo program in the early 70's. However, reaching this goal requires overcoming severe technological and engineering challenges. Some examples are the need of extensive and sustainable moon-based resources of food, energy, oxygen, and water. Information on natural lunar resources are provided by the returned samples from several Apollo missions, and more recently by the Clementine and the Lunar Prospector orbiters. Our main goal is to re-analyze available compositional data for lunar rocks in combination with lunar topography and remote sensing data to gain better insights into the distribution and abundance of hydrogen in the lunar regolith. The results will aid in the analysis of the NASA-LRO data, a mission that will be launched in May 2009. Our preliminary results show the presence of a new sub-linear high hydrogen feature that extends ~1000 km (~30-40°) on either side of the lunar South Pole. We will describe and discus possible origins of this feature and its potential significance for communication and selection of the locations of lunar settlements.
Jose L Castellano
"Absorption and Scattering of particles at the atomic level"
Major: Physics/Astronomy
Faculty Advisor: Dr Jacob Urquidi, Physics
AMP
The discovery of quantum mechanics is a rather new breakthrough in science and physics. It rewrites the books of physics in many ways. The research I am conducting deals with a very important issue in quantum mechanics. This issue is the study of the absorption and scattering of particles at the atomic level which is the goal of my research. To do this, we will use lab based X-Ray sources over intense synchrotron light sources which will produce the blue prints of the behaviors of the particles. However to this, a few goals must be accomplished first. A deeper understanding of the behavior of particles is necessary. Also a software program must be written to control the instrumentation that will be used to detect the behavioral characteristics of the particles we are studying. By doing this, a user interface can be created to run tests of particles by a controllers command. This research will benefit the scientific community because it will give us a better understanding of the particle nature of glasses, liquids and other amorphous materials.
Samantha Chacon
"Working with Galprop"
Major: Electrical Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Steve Stochaj, Dr. Heather Pfeiffer, Dr. Jeannie Cook, Klipsch School of Electrical and Computer Engineering
AMP
The author is working on computer programs that help to understand GALPROP. GALPROP is a numerical model of particle propagation system provided by Stanford. It is used to measure 'Dark Matter' in outer space. Science has shown that this substance, matter which is "invisible" with direct measurement, exists in our universe. Although dark matter is unseen, there are several other unanswered questions on the theory behind it. While Engineers and Astrophysicists continue to research every detail, data continues to be transmitted and collected. By working with GALPROP, we assist in the collection and testing of this data. When the data is collected, it goes through program analysis using GALPROP and this provides categorization of the results. Then 'gprof' and other computer programs allows us to do performance analysis on this process. This work has prepared the author to in the future work with performance analysis tools on other higher scale computer architectures.
Raymundo Chavira
"Comparative analysis of leaves and seeds for tropane alkaloids in Datura innoxia"
Major: Genetics
Faculty Advisor: Mary O'Connell, PES
RISE
Datura innoxia is a medicinal plant that grows in the southwest of North America. Many people called this plant by different names; the name "Toloache" comes from the ancient Aztecs. Plants in the genus Datura contain the highly toxic alkaloids: atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine. The myth says that Datura is used to make people fall in love; people use uncharacterized extracts of this plant commonly. The purpose of the study is to determine the levels of these alkaloids in Datura innoxia plants collected near Las Cruces. Ethanol and hexane extracts of seeds and leaves were characterized. Atropine and scopolamine were determined by liquid chromatography- mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and thin layer chromatography (TLC). As predicted, ethanol was the more efficient solvent for extraction. Seeds had more tropane alkaloids than leaves. More scopolamine was detected than atropine. This data will be presented. Extrapolating from toxicology studies in rats, the LD50 in humans could be 52g of tropane alkaloids total for an average person. Tropane alkaloids in leaves of Datura innoxia collected near Las Cruces, New Mexico are at a lower concentration than the predicted LD50 for humans.
Ana Cordova
"Biotechnology Patents: History and Impacts"
Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Nina Compton, Finance
Honors Thesis
The field of biotechnology covers a wide range of topics, and has enjoyed much growth and discovery for the last few decades. As our technological capacity increases, so does our ability to "invent" new procedures, tools, and now, organisms. Competition for grants, prestige, and knowledge has led the scientific community to engage in patenting everything from details of a scientific protocol to genetically engineered animals. However, the US Patent office has allowed the patenting of biological life long before the recent biotechnology push. This presentation will cover a brief history of the modern patent process, the origin of patenting biological life, and the implications and consequences for the scientific community, as well as the general public.
Alisha Craine
"The Use of the Ultra-Filtration Method and Plaque Assay for Analysis of Bacteriophages PP7 and MS2 in an Environmental Setting"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Geof Smith, Microbiology
MARC
In a laboratory setting to quantify viral concentrations, a method called plaque assay (viral titration) is used to analyze the abundance of a particular virus. However in an environmental setting this procedure by itself can be inaccurate to quantify viral concentrations. To evaluate and quantify viral concentrations in an environmental setting the ultra-filtration method is used. This ultra-filtration method allows for the analysis of large amounts of environmental samples (up to 100L), condensing the samples into a more concentrated form to quantify the abundance of viral pathogens. In this study, both the plaque assay and ultra-filtration method allowed us to analyze the presence of two bacteriophages, PP7 and MS2 in the Bosque Del Apache National Reserve. With this information, we can also find the presence of structurally similar viruses, like avian influenza, more specifically the H5N1 strain.
Desa Daniel
"Identifying Genes Required for Vegetative Incompatibility in Cryphonectria parasitica"
Major: Microbiology
Faculty Advisor: Angus Dawe, Biology
AMP
Chestnut Blight is a fungal disease caused by Cryphonectria parasitica effecting American Chestnut trees. The purpose of this study is to correctly identify the known genes responsible for the process of vegetative incompatibility. C. parasitica colonies fuse together by anastomosis. When the colonies are incompatible a line is formed between the colonies due to the inability to fuse. Vegetative incompatibility in the fungi promotes the death of hyphal cell fusion. Identifying known genes and their functions involved in incompatibility can be analyzed by the creation of a deletion construct and by testing the levels of gene expression by using real-time PCR and western blot analysis. Known molecular protocols of Cryphonectria parasitica will be used to help determine if each gene found using the deletion construct are known to control vegetative incompatibility. Identifying determinates of a deletion construct with the genes responsible for incompatibility could be used to promote incompatibility between fungal colonies.
Armando De La Cruz
"Effect of Evaporation Reducers on Concrete Shrinkage"
Major: Civil Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Craig M. Newtson, Civil Engineering
AMP
The purpose of this research is to evaluate the ability of an evaporation reducer, known as Confilm®, to reduce early-age shrinkage cracking in concrete. Shrinkage cracks allow the infiltration of water, salts, and chemicals that can damage the reinforcing steel or degrade the concrete. In either of these cases, the result will be a significant decrease in the service life of the concrete. Shrinkage experiments are being conducted as follow-up work to a study that evaluated early-age shrinkage in concrete cured by misting and wet curing. Several tests were performed which included, testing with wet towels and no Confilm®, no towels and no Confilm®, Confilm® with wet towels, and Confilm® used as a finishing aid. Once these experiments are completed, comparisons will be made to the original experimental results to assess the effectiveness of the evaporation reducer.
Barry Neal Dungan
"A 'Green' Method for Extracting Red Pigments from Chile Fruit"
Major: Horticulture
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Mary O'Connell, Plant and Environmental Sciences
RISE
A 'green' method of oleoresin extraction was evaluated using four chile cultivars (Garnet, Barkers Hot, Long Red Cayenne, and Jamaica). Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) was used to extract oleoresin from dried fruit powder. The Yield of pigments obtained by SFE was compared with those obtained from a hexane extraction using an Automated Solvent Extractor 350 (ASE 350). Both extracts were highly pigmented with the SFE-based method yielding approximately 90% as much pigment (based on ASTA analysis) as the hexane method. The predominant red pigment in both extracts was capsanthin. The pigments from both methods were acylated requiring saponification in order to identify the pigment. Thin layer chromatography showed an essentially identical distribution of pigments between the two methods. This study shows SFE to be an environmentally friendly method of rapidly and efficiently extracting red pigments from dry chile powder.
Lekeah Durden
"Does the endophytic fungus, Undifilum, protect locoweeds from various fungal pathogens?"
Major: Biology and Micobiology
Faculty Advisor: Rebecca Creamer, EPPWS
RISE
Oxytropis and Astragalus are toxic leguminous plants commonly referred to as locoweeds. Locoweeds contain the fungus, Undifilum, which produces the toxin swainsonine, an alkaloid that causes severe neurological damage to mammals that ingest large amounts. It is still unknown whether the endophytic presence of this fungus provides any benefits to the plant. Antagonism between Undifilum and various fungal pathogens were assayed to better understand if Undifilum protects its plant host from pathogenic fungi. Undifilum oxytropis samples were isolated from Oxytropis sericea and grown on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). Five fungal pathogens were individually plated with transfers of U. oxytropis on different sides of the PDA plates. Each pathogen was then allowed to grow for approximately two weeks, observing and measuring the relative interaction with and without the presence of the Undifilum. Growth of some pathogenic fungi seemed decreased. This research can increase the understanding of the symbiotic nature of U. oxytropis to the locoweed plant.
Johnathan Grady Easterling
"Temperature Extremes in Vibrio fischeri"
Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Michele K. Nishiguchi, Biology
MARC
Luminous bacteria in the family Vibrionaceae (g-Proteobacteria) are found living mutualistically in the light organs of both sepiolid squids and monocentrid fishes. Vibrio symbionts are transmitted environmentally, and are inherently exposed to a wide spectrum of abiotic conditions during each cycle of their life history. Temperature differences between habitats oftentimes fluctuates, and may prevent dispersal of these otherwise cosmopolitan bacteria. Because Vibrio symbionts have been observed to be transient between different host species, a temperature assay using several symbiotic strains of Vibrio fischeri (ES114, EM17, and ET401) was developed to map detailed growth extremes at environmental temperatures. Results indicate that all three strains have visible growth at temperature extremes between 8°C and 35°C. We also examined temperatures that will be used in additional experimental evolution experiments at 20°C and 34°C, that will be representative of low and high temperature extremes. Comparison of these measurements with other abiotic factors will eventually help us better understand whether vibrios that have broad temperature ranges can become a more competitive symbiont than those with more narrow temperature ranges.
Grant #NIH GMO7667-31
Michael Eberhart and Jason Kegel
"A Comparative Study of Natural and Synthetic Iron Oxides and their Effectiveness for Remediation of Arsenic in Groundwater"
Major: Chemistry, Geology
Faculty Advisor: Michael D. Johnson and Nancy J. McMillan, Chemistry, Geology
Arsenic is a toxin that occurs naturally in many water supplies due to aquifer geology. As a result, the presence of arsenic in drinking water is a common regional and global problem. In the USA, the Safe Drinking Water Act now requires municipalities to meet a maximum of 10 ppb arsenic. Achieving this low level often imposes significant financial burdens Our study compares the effectiveness of natural and synthetic iron oxides for the remediation of ppb concentrations of arsenic. We purchased natural samples of limonite, goethite, and hematite. We synthesized goethite, lepidocrocite, akaganéite, and hematite. Known quantities of these minerals were added to water samples containing 100 ppb arsenic. The treated sample was filtered and the remaining solution's arsenic concentration was determined using AAS-GF. XRD was used to confirm the mineralogy of the samples and particle size analysis was used to normalize the results with respect to differing particle sizes. Differences in effectiveness were observed between natural and synthetic iron oxides with the latter most effective. These effects are likely due to differing particle sizes, mineral assemblages, or a combination of both factors. These plus a cost analysis will be presented.
Ryan Fairbank
"Early Age Shrinkage in High Strength Concrete"
Major: Civil Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Craig M. Newtson, Civil Engineering
AMP
The purpose of this research was to determine a concrete mixture that would produce minimal early age shrinkage while maintaining a high level of strength. Early age shrinkage in concrete can cause shrinkage cracks that can lead to deterioration. Shrinkage in concrete has been proven to occur as soon as water is added to the cement and continues to occur throughout the spectrum of the reaction. The reason shrinkage occurs is due to evaporation of water from the concrete mixture. By creating a concrete mixture that will minimize water evaporation this problem can be avoided. Through experimentation a concrete mixture was developed that minimized the amount of water evaporated over time. This developed mixture not only reduces the effects of early age shrinkage, but also maintains a level of high strength, 29000 psi. In conclusion it has been determined that early age shrinkage cracks are a result of loss of moisture as the concrete cures and a concrete mixture has been developed that minimizes shrinkage while maintaining a high level of strength.
Marco M. Garay
"Supercritical Water Oxidation"
Major: Chemical Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Burl Donaldson, Mechanical Engineering
Supplemental Advisor: Dr. Antonio Lara, Chemistry
AMP
Supercritical water oxidation is useful in the manufacturing of biofuels such as methanol; it is also useful in the treatment of solid or liquid waste. Supercritical water has been observed to promote oxidation of various materials, particularly including hydrocarbons; the problem is that containment may be an issue, particularly if chlorine or other corrosive components are present in the feed. There are not many models of supercritical reactions, and it is difficult to find a fitting model. The main focuses of this study is production of biofuels in a time efficient process compared to other methods of either producing biofuels or treating waste. A well insulated, constant volume batch reactor filled with about 1/3 with a mixture of water, methanol, and hydrogen peroxide is heated to the critical temperature of water. The reaction is monitored by the computer program LabView which records temporal values of both reactor pressure and temperature. The reaction may be proceeding faster than when the reactor was first used.
Juan Miguel Garcia-Madrid
"The feed value of dry distillers grains plus soluble in 90% concentrate diets for feedlot lambs"
Major: Animal Science
Faculty Advisor: S. A. Soto-Navarro, Animal Science
AMP, URA
Twenty four Rambouillet lambs (31.3 ± 0.77 kg initially) were used in a 92-d finishing experiment in order to evaluate the feed value of dry distillers grains plus solubles (DDGS) in 90% concentrate diets. Four concentrations (8, 16, 24 and 32% of diet DM) of DDGS replaced dry-rolled corn in a 90% corn-based finishing diet. Lambs were housed individually and fed once daily at 0800. Fresh water was always available. Average daily gain tended to increase with increasing DDGS level (P = 0.90, quadratic; 261, 288, 280 and 257 ± 13.9 g/d for 8, 16, 24 and 32% DDGS, respectively). Dry matter intake (1,304, 1,256, 1,326, and 1,318 ±74.2 g/d for 8, 16, 24, and 32% DDGS, respectively) and G:F (181, 193, 198, and 188 ± 9.9 g/kg for 8, 16, 24, and 32% DDGS, respectively) were not affected (P ≥ 0.39) by DDGS replacement level. Hot carcass weight, loin eye area, back fat thickness, and marbling score were not affected (P ≥ 0.18) by increasing DDGS supplementation level. Although quality grade decreased (P = 0.03, linear) with increasing DDGS supplementation level, the average carcass quality grade in each treatment was within the choice category. We conclude that growth performance of lambs consuming 90% concentrate diets based on corn is not affected by level of DDGS replacement. Therefore, DDGS can be used in 90% concentrate diets based on corn up to 32% without negatively affecting the feed value of the diet.
Jon Matthew George
"Synthesis of Methoxy-S-Trityl-L-Cysteine Derivatives"
Major: Chemical Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Martha Mitchell, Chemical Engineering
RISE
Human mitotic kinesin Eg5 plays a vital role in the establishment of bipolar mitotic spindle, regulating centrosome separation and microtubule formation. Eg5 is a promising target for cancer therapeutics due to its critical role in the cell cycle. S-Trityl-L-cysteine (STLC) is an amino acid derivative that was recently identified as a potent inhibitor of human kinesin Eg5.1 Since STLC proved to have poor water solubility and membrane permeability, we hypothesized that modification of different functional groups would provide STLC derivatives with improved physicochemical properties. Methoxy-S-Trityl-L-Cysteine (MSTLC) has been shown to be one of the more potent STLC derivatives.2 We have designed and synthesized MSTLC derivatives for improved Eg5 inhibition. We have also synthesized a novel affinity matrix composed of sepharose gel to verify the binding interaction of newly synthesized MSTLC analogs with Eg5 using protein target pull down assays.
Sarah R. Gonzales
"Synthetic Azole Nucleosides as Potential Antiviral Drugs"
Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jeffrey Arterburn & Dr. Kathryn Hanley, Chemistry & Biochemistry and Biology
RISE
Ribavirin can suppress the replication of many RNA viruses. Unfortunately, clinical use is associated with hemolytic anemia. Ribavirin mimics the purine nucleosides incorporated into DNA, thus increasing viral mutation rates. Additionally, Ribavirin inhibits the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase necessary for the replication of viruses. To be active, Ribavirin is phosphorylated by adenosine kinase (hADK), forming 5'-ribavirin triphosphate. We have focused on designing and synthesizing novel analogs derived from Ribavirin that are effective substrates for phosphorylation by hADK. In previous studies we observed potent antiviral activity of the novel compound 1-β-D-ribofuranosyl-3-ethynyl-[1,2,4]triazole (ETAR) against the hantaviruses Andes virus and Hantaan virus. Current research has led to the discovery that ETAR is also efficacious against dengue virus, the etiological agent of dengue fever. To compare the efficacy of ETAR and other nucleoside analogs against dengue and related flaviviruses, we have determined half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) for ETAR and Ribavirin for a panel of viruses in cultured cells. We are in the process of monitoring viral growth curves in the presence of each drug. This project allows us to identify possible drugs that are effective and the mechanism by which they work. Funding is provided by NIH 5R25GM061222-07, UAMRC W81XWH-04-C-0055 and NIH-NM-INBRE P20 RR016480-08.
Norah Gonzalez
"Response of a Synthetic Copper (II) Ion-Inducible Promoter for the Metallothionein Gene of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Grown on Different Carbon Substrates"
Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Glenn D. Kuehn, Chemistry and Biochemistry
MARC
Inducible promoter systems are powerful tools that allow for controlled gene expression in biological systems. Our laboratory has investigated a modified copper (II) ion-inducible promoter system developed from the Saccharomyces cerevisiae metallothionein gene. The promoter region is an activatable binding site (ABS) for the copper (II) ion dependent transcription factor, activating copper metallothionein expression (ACE). This promoter showed exceptional inducible capacity when modified to a tandem repeat of ACE binding-site region (ABS2). In yeast, we synthesized and ligated ABS2 into pYES plasmid and studied its capacity to drive expression of reporter gene, b-galactosidase from Escherichia coli. Previous studies reported that quality of carbon availability in growth media during culture on different sources influenced metallothionein promoter transcriptional activity. We investigated the effect of utilizing various carbon substrates on ABS2 function in yeast. Cultured yeast were grown on various carbon substrates and assayed for b-galactosidase enzyme activity. ABS2 promoter differential activity was demonstrated when S. cerevisiae was grown on various carbon sources in the presence of copper (II) ion. Relative specific enzyme activities of b-galactosidase recovered from cultures after growth were found to be: sucrose, 1.00; glucose 0.87; mannose, 0.50; and galactose, 0.11. Supported by PHS-NIGMS grants no. S06 GM008136-34 (SCORE) and R25 GM07667-31 (MARC)
Clayton Gorman
"16S RNA Genotyping Using PCR/RFLP (Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism) Analysis to Identify Bacterial Symbionts From Loliginid Squid Light Organs"
Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Advisor: Michele K. Nishiguchi, Biology
RISE, MARC
The Vibrionaceae (gamma-Proteobacteria) is an extremely diverse bacterial family containing both symbiotic and free-living species. Luminescent bacteria in this family are commonly found in complex, bilobed, light organs of squids in the families Sepiolidae and Loliginidae. Our work has previously described similarities at the molecular, physiological, and biochemical levels between symbionts of loliginid squids and Vibrio harveyi, a bacterium that is known to have both mutualistic and pathogenic niches. These findings raise the question of the potential role of this association in the epidemiology of vibriosis caused by V. harveyi in the marine environment. Therefore, we analyzed the microbial diversity in light organs of loliginid squid from several locations in Australia and Thailand using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. Samples were typed and identified by analyzing the 16S rRNA locus using two base-specific restriction enzymes (HhaI and RsaI). RFLP-based operational taxonomic unites (OTUs) were obtained to determine whether all strains sampled from various geographic locations were more closely related than those affiliated with a specific squid species. Understanding the relationships between different Vibrio strains that inhabit various ecological niches is important for establishing whether different Vibrio species native to marine and estuarine environments are capable of displaying distinct phylogeographical patterns. Results from this project will form a reference database to help identify bacterial symbionts rapidly, and to determine whether biogeography is linked to host ecology and bacterial specificity.
Jessica Gutierrez
"Population genetic survey of the bacterial symbiont Vibrio fischeri from natural host squid populations of Euprymna tasmanica (Mollusca: Cephalopoda)"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Michele Nishiguchi, Biology
HHMI, RISE
Vibrio fischeri is a bioluminescent bacterial symbiont housed within the light organs of sepiolid squids (Cephalopoda: Sepiolidae). Their bioluminescence provides the squid camouflage in a cryptic behavior known as counterillumination. Interactions between these two organisms are initiated anew every generation of juvenile squid hatchings, and persists throughout the life-span of the host squid as a complex diel rhythm in which V. fischeri is constantly being expelled daily. The vented populations then become members of the free-living bacterioplankton capable of repopulating subsequent generations. The environmental nature of transmission poses unique barriers (i.e. abiotic conditions) for bacterial symbionts prior to initiating contact with a host squid. To provide insight whether such abiotic factors determine the influx of a particular suite of Vibrio haplotypes, the glyceraldehydes phosphate deydrogenase subunit B (gapB) locus was analyzed from V. fischeri collected from Euprymna tasmanica between the years 2000 and 2007. Results suggest adaptive sweeps of novel genotypes and secondary colonization events of prior genotypes. In addition, gene flow estimates and haplotype diversity values demonstrate greater genetic variation within same year isolates. Collectively, the observed patterns may be attributed to the variability in coastal waters illustrating the potential of abiotic factors during initiation of the symbiosis.
Melinda Guzman
"Working with GALPROP"
Major: Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Steve Stochaj, Dr. Heather Pfeiffer, Dr. Jeanine Cook, Klipsch School of Electrical and Computer Engineering
AMP
Within this project, we are interested in how computer programs perform in the context of large scale systems and the study of workload on specific computer architectures. We are focusing on one code 'GALPROP', a numerical modeling system for particle analysis in space. This system runs on an Intel Quad Core. The GALPROP code will allow us to study complex algorithms that are computationally intense that are running on high performance computers. Information obtained through this study will allow us to identify the necessary areas that could be improved in advance computer architectures. Through the use of profiling tools, to characterize the GALPROP code, various optimization methods can be applied. After analyzing the findings, we can apply improvements that potentially will increase the performance of the code.
Shane Hamby
"Red peppers, why are they red?"
Major: Dietetics
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Mary O'Connell, Plant and Environmental sciences
RISE, NM AES, USDA
Carotenoids are naturally occurring pigments in photosynthetic organisms. In peppers, carotenoids are responsible for the red, orange and yellow colors. Carotenoids are known for their antioxidant and pro-vitamin A qualities. The red carotenoid, capsanthin, is used to dye products ranging from cosmetics to food. Capsanthin, unique to peppers, is produced by the enzyme Ccs. Beta-Cryptoxanthin is a pro-vitamin A precursor to capsanthin produced upstream in the carotenoid pathway. The goal of this study was to investigate possible explanations for high levels of red pigments in peppers. Two hypotheses were tested: (1) variance in the enzyme Ccs , (2) higher abundances of red pigment precursors upstream in the pathway. This study aims to benefit chile breeders, assisting them in breeding for peppers with higher levels of red pigments. Carotenoids were extracted from NuMex Garnet, the carotenoid profiles were then measured using a Waters UPLC system and compared to 7 varieties of orange peppers. Genomic DNA was extracted from Garnet leaves, Ccs was amplified using PCR, cloned, sequenced and compared to the same 7 orange varieties. As expected, specific carotenoid abundances varied between chile varieties; these profiles and the sequence variation will be presented.
Carlos Hermosillo
"Studies on Transformation and Regeneration of Chile (Capsicum annuum)"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Champa Sengupta-Gopalan, Plant and Enviormental Sciences
AMP
Chile pepper is an important crop and is used in many cultures all around the world. All chile plants are somehow susceptible to different bacteria, fungi, and virus. Abiotic and biotic factors also play a role in low crop yield and quality. Research using traditional breeding methods and biotechnology and genetic engineering is continuing in chile improvement programs. For genetically engineer protocals, it is important to develop an efficient plant regeneration and transformation system. Past research has indicated that finding successful transformation in chile has been difficult due to the specific conditions needed to transform and regenerate chile in tissue culture. Developing specific protocols for regeneration of chile and optimizing conditions for Agrobacterium mediated transformation of chile will lead to an advacement towards chile improvement for a better percent, quality, and resistance. Seeds of different chilecultivors have been used for developing protocols for plant regeneration. Regeneration is achieved by developing protocols for seed sterilization, germination, and tissue culture. Agrobacteriumtumefaciens is used for the delivery of foreign DNA in chile. Our results show successful whole plant transformation in chile using β-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene. Protocols are still being optimized to achieve maximum transformation efficiency in chile by using different Agrobacteriumtumefaciens strains. Chile quality improvement will be difficult without specific regeneration and transformation protocols.
Sarahí Hernández
"Efficacy of a Parenting Education Program for Incarcerated Fathers"
Major: Family and Child Science
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Marcel Montañez, Family and Consumer Sciences
Strengthening Families Initiative Undergraduate Honors Research Assistant
Children's lives are seriously disrupted when a parent is incarcerated (Reed & Reed, 1997). In 1999 an estimated 721,500 State and Federal prisoners were parents to 1,498,800 children under the age of 18 (USDJ, 1999). One study found that parental training for the incarcerated fathers led to improved attitudes regarding child rearing (Harrison, 1997). In this study, the efficacy of an intensive parenting program is evaluated. Over a one year period, 135 incarcerated fathers participated in the program. Classes focused on teaching parenting skills and life skills. Statistically significant findings were found for both parenting and life skills. Findings from this study indicated that intervention for fathers prior to reunification with their families will have a positive impact on the family system and specifically on the parent-child relationship. The results of this research are important for developing parenting and relationship interventions with incarcerated fathers.
Sefora Hernandez
"The role of the 3'UTR in the posttranscriptional regulation of GS1 genes in alfalfa"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Champa Sengupta-Gopalan, Plant & Environmental Sciences
AMP
Glutamine Synthetase (GS) plays a central role in nitrogen metabolism in all plants. GS catalyzes the condensation of glutamate and ammonia to form glutamine. Plants have two major isoforms of GS: cytosolic isoform (GS1) and the chloroplastic isoform (GS2). While GS2 functions in the assimilation of ammonia produced by photorespiration or nitrate reduction, GS1 assimilates ammonia produced by all other physiological processes. GS1 and GS2 isoforms are both transcriptionally regulated. Recent work done in our lab has shown that a soybean GS1 gene is posttranscriptionally regulated at the level of transcript turnover, the process being mediated by its 3'UTR. The goal of this research is to determine if the 3'UTR mediated post-transcriptional regulation of GS1 is universal. Towards this objective, we have engineered the 3'UTR of two alfalfa GS1 genes behind a reporter (β-glucuronidase, GUS) gene and introduced them into alfalfa. The transformants have been tested for the expression of the reporter gene by subjecting the leaf extracts to native gel electrophoresis followed by in gel staining for GUS activity. Our results suggest that one of the two alfalfa GS1 genes is regulated post-transcriptionally by it's 3-UTR thus suggesting that the 3'UTR mediated post-transcriptional regulation of GS1 is not universal.
David Hogan
"Development of live culture technique using microchemostats: Vibrio fischeri biofilm observation and experimentation"
Major: Microbiology
Faculty Advisor: Michele K. Nishiguchi, Biology
HHMI
The mutualism between different species of sepiolid squid and the luminescent bacteria Vibrio fischeri rely upon the ability of the bacterial symbiont to successfully infect and inhabit the light organ within the squid. A major factor in establishing this infection is the formation of biofilm by V. fischeri within the light organ. Previous work has shown through transmission electron microscopy that V. fischeri readily establishes itself within the light organ by formation of biofilms on the epithelial lined tissues of the light organ. This method of observation requires samples be removed from the squid and growth by the bacteria ceased. Due to these requirements, biofilm formation has not been observed during its growth and formation in real time. To better observe how biofilms are formed by V. fischeri in vitro, we devised a mechanism to measure this development by creating a microchemostat that was equal in size to a squid light organ, but more importantly, allows observation during all stages of growth and biofilm formation.
Christiana Holguin
"Cleavage plane determination in binucleate cells"
Major: Microbiology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Charles Shuster, Biology
MARC
During cleavage plane determination, spatial information from the mitotic spindle must be imparted to the actin cytoskeleton to position the contractile ring. Our lab has focused on the chromosomal passenger complex (CPC), which is localized to the metaphase plate early in mitosis and the cleavage plane during cytokinesis. The notion that the CPC determines the cleavage plane has been challenged by experiments where cleavage furrows may be induced in the absence of a metaphase plate. To ascertain whether the CPC is involved in such cleavage events, we generated a population of binucleate sea urchin embryos by reversibly blocking the first cleavage. Once the block was removed, embryos proceeded into the second mitosis with two parallel spindles. Examination by live cell imaging revealed that in addition to cleavage furrows in the plane of the former metaphase plates (1° furrows), a second set formed normal to the primary cleavage plane (2° furrows). In contrast to the 1° furrows, only 50% of 2° furrows ingressed to completion. When these embryos were probed for the CPC component survivin, survivin was only found associated with 1° furrows. Together, these results suggest a second mechanism exists for cleavage plane determination that is independent of the CPC.
Grant #NIH GMO7667-31
Elizabeth J. Hollingsworth
"The War on Terror and Presidential Power"
Major: Government
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Nancy Baker, Government
For many years, Americans have prided themselves upon being international bastions of liberty and individual rights. In fact, the framers of the Constitution even afforded accused criminals procedural rights that eventually evolved into the American right to procedural due process. But in the post-9/11 panic, the Bush Administration formed and implemented policies that pushed the country and those rights in a new direction. By framing the issue as a "war on terror" and calling subsequent efforts "operations," the Bush Administration gave itself broad grants of power, with the goal of defeating terrorism in America and in the international community.
As the far-reaching policies were implemented, United States citizens and the international community began to take note, and the unfortunate events at Guantánamo Bay Detention Camp only served to magnify perceived American atrocities of justice. The framing of post-9/11 legal policy initially strengthened the federal government and allowed it more discretion, but eventually devolved and weakened the presidency. Focusing particularly upon the legal framework that allowed the Bush Administration to claim almost unlimited power in the War on Terror, this paper will specifically examine the denial of due process protections to prisoners Guantánamo Bay, and the long-term weakening of the presidency.
Porsha Howell
"Functionality of the DNA damage checkpoint in early sea urchin embryo"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Charles Shuster, Biology
MARC
The DNA damage checkpoint monitors the genome and prevents cell cycle progression if any nicks, double stranded breaks or stalled replication forks are detected. Interestingly, in the early embryos of many animals, DNA damage results in no delay in mitotic progression. In an effort to determine whether the DNA damage checkpoint is active and functional in sea urchin embryos, fertilized eggs were treated with the DNA damage-inducing agent MMS, and probed for markers of mitotic progression. Entry into mitosis is regulated by dephosphorylation of tyrosine 15 on cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), and examination of cell lysates of control- or MMS-treated eggs revealed that pY15 levels were maintained in MMS-treat cells treated. MMS-treated eggs failed to enter mitosis with the same kinetics as controls, and immunofluorescent analysis of these eggs revealed the presence of phospho-histone H2A.x, known marker for double-stranded breaks. These data suggest that in contrast to the spindle assembly checkpoint (which is not functional until the 16-32 cell stage), the DNA damage checkpoint is active and functional as early as the zygote stage in sea urchin embryos. Furthermore, this contrasts sharply with Drosophila and Xenopus embryos, where the checkpoint is not functional until the mid-blastula stage of development.
Grant #NIH GMO7667-31
Rachel Johnston
"The Broad and Complex Role of Broad-Complex Gene in Drosophila Eye Development"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jennifer Curtiss, Biology
HHMI, RISE, MARC
Hormones are messenger molecules that transmit signals to target cells in distant parts of the body by traveling through the bloodstream. The transmission of hormones are essential to the development of all animals, and misregulation of such molecules can have devastating effects on the body, including breast cancer and leukemia. The Broad-Complex gene encodes four protein isoforms, Z1-Z4, generated via differential splicing and has been proposed to be an initial response gene to ecdysone, the primary steroid hormone in Drosophila. To understand how cells respond to hormone signals during animal development, we have investigated how the Broad-Complex affects cell proliferation and differentiation in the Drosophila eye. Drosophila have compound eyes composed of 800 facets, called ommatidia, which develop in a very precise pattern. To determine the functions of the different Broad-Complex proteins during eye development, we analyzed eye phenotypes of mutant alleles specific to the individual Broad-Complex isoforms. Interestingly, flies lacking the Z2 isoform have irregularities in ommatidia patterning and a reduction in the number of photoreceptors. Additionally, misexpression of individual isoforms causes major disruptions in eye development. These data suggest that the Broad-Complex is required for proper cell differentiation during eye development.
Kellie A. Jurado
"Serum hormone profiles and cyclic activity in prepubertal Rambouillet ewes treated with progesterone and pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin"
Major: Biology & Psychology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Dennis M. Hallford, Animal Science
HHMI, MARC
Twenty-two spring-born prepubertal Rambouillet ewe lambs (7mo of age, 44.5 ± 1.2 kg) were used to examine serum hormone profiles after progesterone (P4) and PMSG treatment. Ewes were maintained in an outdoor pen (4 x 18 m) under ambient conditions and fed alfalfa hay (1.2 kg/ewe daily) and cracked corn (0.45 kg/ewe daily) with free access to water, salt, and shade. On October 3, 11 ewes received an intravaginal P4-impregnated insert (CIDR, 0.3g P4). The CIDR was removed after12 d (d 0) and the same 11 ewes then received 400 IU PMSG (i.m.) while 11 control ewes (no CIDR) were treated with saline (i.m.). Serum samples were collected twice weekly for 4 wk before treatments were imposed, daily for the 12 d of CIDR and for 7 d after CIDR removal, and twice weekly for 6 wk after CIDR removal. Serum P4 was quantified (RIA) in all samples and serum prolactin (PRL) and insulin (INS) were measured in samples collected after CIDR removal. Before treatment began, serum P4 was less than 1.0 ng/mL indicating that ewes were prepubertal. As expected, serum P4 values increased to 4.7 ± 0.2 ng/mL on the day after CIDR insertion compared with 0.2 ng/mL in controls (P < 0.001). Serum P4 remained elevated for the 12-d implant period and then declined to baseline levels within 6 h after CIDR removal. Four of the 11 control ewes reached puberty during the CIDR-treatment period as evidenced by increased P4 concentrations. From 5 to 16 d after PMSG treatment, treated ewes had elevated (P < 0.02) serum P4 compared with controls. Serum P4 peaked at 18.4 ± 1.8 ng/mL 13 d after PMSG compared with 0.5 ng/mL on that same day in controls (P < 0.001). From 20 d after PMSG to the end of the study, however, serum P4 in treated ewes remained below 1.0 ng/mL while control ewes continued to have cyclic P4 profiles. Serum INS concentrations in treated ewes was 1.37 ng/mL compared with 0.64 (± 0.08) ng/mL in control ewes 2 d after CIDR removal and PMSG administration (P < 0.001). Likewise, serum PRL was elevated in treated compared with control ewes on d 2 (205 and 30 ± 30 ng/mL, respectively, P < 0.001). Progesterone and PMSG treatment in prepubertal Rambouillet ewes resulted in elevated P4 profiles indicative of follicular growth and luteal activity but cyclic activity was not maintained.
Amy Lamb
"Cultivating Security: An Estate Planning and Farm Transition Workshop for New Mexico Farm and Ranch Families"
Major: Agricultural Economics and Agricultural Business
Faculty Advisor: Nina Compton, Finance
Honors Thesis
Agriculture is more than just a source of income; for many families in New Mexico, it is the cornerstone of their way of life. These families would greatly benefit from the opportunity to preserve their heritage and business and a guide to assist them with the complex issues inherent in estate planning. The purpose of this thesis is to develop a working proposition for implementation by the New Mexico Cooperative Extension Service (CES) that will provide current, accurate estate planning resources to agricultural families in New Mexico. The CES presently offers no such program, and research supports a growing demand for estate planning and farm transfer services. This thesis will analyze the perceived needs of New Mexican agricultural producers and explore commonly utilized CES program delivery methods and supplements. Then, a basic outline of general curriculum addressing essential estate planning and farm transfer information will be developed, as well as a sample program format. Ultimately, after further research and interaction with professionals and the families of agricultural producers, a proposal for disseminating estate-planning resources will be submitted to the CES that is both straightforward to deliver and practical for producers to use.
Carol J. Lange
"Does Varying Nitrogen Alter Swainsonine Levels in a Toxic Rangeland Weed?"
Major: Agricultural Biology
Faculty Advisor: Tracy M. Sterling, EPWS
WSSA, URIG, USDA/CREES
Swainsonine is a toxic alkaloid present in the leguminous rangeland weed, locoweed, which acts as an inhibitor of α-mannosidase preventing the complete metabolism of oligosaccharides, leading to brain damage and possibly death of grazing animals. Little work has been conducted to help predict swainsonine levels in response to environmental stresses. It has been suggested that under drought conditions, nitrogen may serve a role in defense by contributing to alkaloid production, because root nodulation increases under water-deficit conditions. Therefore, locoweed species and varieties, which contain a range of swainsonine from highly toxic to non-toxic levels, were treated with increasing levels of soil nitrogen, and swainsonine levels compared. Four varieties native to New Mexico were grown from seed and maintained in a common greenhouse environment under normal conditions using techniques to ensure the absence of Rhizobia and root nodulation. Oxytropis sericea produces high levels of swainsonine, while Astralagus mollissimus varieties mollissimus, bigelovii and matthewsii are high, medium and low producers, respectively. On a weekly basis, five different nitrogen levels were applied in Hoagland's solution to the soil of pots containing locoweed plants. Leaf tissue was collected over time for swainsonine analysis to determine the effect of nitrogen on production of swainsonine, as detected using LC/MS. Since limited nitrogen supply may decrease the production of nitrogen-containing compounds such as swainsonine, additional nitrogen is expected to yield more swainsonine in all varieties of locoweed while maintaining status of high, medium, and low swainsonine producers.
Trung Le
"Legolog implementation for LEGO® MINDSTORMS™ NXT"
Major: Computer Science & Mathematics
Faculty Advisor: Son Tran, Computer Science
Honors Thesis
An important area of research in robotics which has been studied intensively is to automatically plan how the robot behaves in an environment. One of the methods in planning robot behaviors is to use a computer as a control station. The computer sends a sequence of actions planned according to the environment’s information acquired by the robot. An example is the Legolog system developed by the Cognitive Robotics Group at the University of Toronto. Legolog is a system that uses a planner to control the LEGO® MINDSTOMRS™ RCX robot. In 2006, Lego introduced the new LEGO® MINDSTOMRS™ NXT robot which provides more interesting capabilities than the RCX model. This paper proposes an implementation of the Legolog system for the newer NXT robot. Besides the discussion of the Legolog system, what changes from the original implementation is discussed and an example application is also included.
Sheny Leon
"Physical and Chemical Properties of soils from Pecan Orchards"
Major: Environmental Science
Faculty Advisor: Manoj Shukla, Plant and Environmental Sciences
AMP
Pecan is an important agricultural crop in the southern New Mexico. Efficient water management is important for maintaining a sustainable yield and profitability. In order to improve water application efficiency, the amount of water applied to pecan orchards is related to the type and water holding capacity of soil. In this research soil samples were collected from two pecan orchards located in Riverside and Leyendecker Plant Science Center. At Riverside farm, soil samples were collected from 3 different locations and up to a depth of 180 cm. At Leyendecker farm, soil samples were collected from 5 different locations and up to a depth of 180 cm. The samples from Riverside were analyzed for soil texture, pH and EC. The soil texture found at Riverside varied from loamy sand to sandy loam in the first 60 cm depth. After a depth of 60 cm the main soil was a sandy soil. Throughout out the Pecan field the soil remained slightly basic with an average pH of 8.3. The EC found in this field ranged from 450 µS (in areas where sand was > 80%) to 885 µS (in areas where silt and clay were > 20%). The analysis of samples from Leyendecker is in progress and results will be reported during the conference.
Alexander Louie
"Translating a Synthetic, High Expressing, Copper-Inducible Promoter System from Yeast into Tobacco for Controlled Expression of Recombinant Genes"
Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Glenn Kuehn, Chemistry and Biochemistry
MARC
Inducible promoter systems provide temporal control over the expression of recombinant genes. Our laboratory has modified the copper-inducible expression system based on the Saccharomyces cerevisiae metallothionein gene (CUP1) to create a high expressing copper-inducible promoter system in yeast. Upon binding copper (II) ion, a transcription factor called activating copper metallothionein expression (ACE1) activates and binds to regions of DNA containing ACE1-binding sites (ABS) to promote the transcription of the subsequent gene. We have shown that a tandem repeat of ABS (ABS2) creates a promoter with tight control and higher expression than ABS in yeast. Furthermore, the ACE/ABS system has also been developed for tobacco; therefore, we are interested in characterizing the performance of the ABS2 promoter in tobacco. To assess the function of the ABS2 system in tobacco, we have transformed Nicotiana tobaccum with the yeast ACE1 gene under the control of the cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) 35S RNA promoter. Polymerase chain reaction methods have been used to confirm stable introduction of the ACE1 gene into tobacco; however, we have yet to assay for the activity of the ABS2 promoter in this system. Supported by MARC NIH GMO7667-31 and SCORE SC3 Grant GM008136-34
Ahmad S. Manshad
"Designing an implantable custom approach stimulation of muscle and electric organ in freely behaving electric fish"
Major: Electrical Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Graciela A. Unguez, Biology
HHMI
This research presents the development of an inexpensive device that enables the recording of electric organ (EO) discharge and stimulation of muscle cells and the muscle-derived electrogenic cells of the electric organ in the electric fish, Sternopygus macrurus. Using common electronic components available in many electronic stores, this device delivers stimulation at a frequency range of 50Hz – 300Hz, and determines the amplitude of the electric field surrounding the fish during free swimming behavior. Research has suggested that muscle cells may differentiate into electrocytes (EO cells) through neural activity. Using our device, we will stimulate muscle cells using different electrical activation paradigms in vivo to directly test whether neural impulses can determine the conversion of muscle cells into electrocytes.
Gerardo Martinez
"Inertia Parameters Identification Algorithm Verification Through Air-Bearing Test"
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. OU Ma, Mechanical Engineering
AMP, URA
Increasingly complicated and sophisticated in-orbit systems are being developed to accomplish more complex and challenging space missions. Such intricate capabilities need to be properly controlled and therefore the inertia parameters need to be determined and reevaluated periodically; since they can change in orbit due to deployment of payload, docking with other systems, and fuel consumption, among other things. A newly developed algorithm is being tested for its effectiveness in determining the needed inertia parameters. We focus on planar testing using an air-bearing table. This is one of many tests that the algorithm is undergoing in order to prove its feasibility. The proposed algorithm was developed for use in a zero-gravity environment with six degrees of freedom. The inability of simulating zero-gravity in the lab requires that the algorithm undergo planar testing on an air-bearing table instead. The planar test can simulate a space-like environment in two dimensions. The algorithm is based on the conservation of linear and angular momentum; therefore, constraining the test to two dimensions simplifies the test, since simpler equations are used. Planar testing can partially validate the algorithm and compliment other tests such as a full three-dimensional test onboard NASA's microgravity flight in the near future.
Jesus Martinez
"The identification of metabolic markers in transgenic plants by the application of metabolite profiling"
Major: Chemistry
Faculty Advisor: Champa Sengupta-Gopalan, Plant and Environmental Sciences
RISE
A global metabolomic approach was used to monitor the effects of methionine synthesis and accumulation in transgenic alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and Medicago truncatula overexpressing Cystathionine γ Synthase, a key enzyme in methionine biosynthesis. Here we describe a method to provide a comprehensive look into the metabolome of plant systems based on mass spectrometry. Monitoring global changes in the metabolome has significant challenges and the instrumentation used to acquire the data must provide high sensitivity, a large dynamic range, high throughput, and the ability to identify metabolites of interest. To meet these demands we based a method on an Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled to a Quadrupole Time-Of-Flight (Q-TOF) mass spectrometer. A principle component analysis was applied to the data and used to identify potential biomarkers in metabolite extracts of legume leaf tissue. The high mass accuracy of the Q-TOF allows for the tentative identification of these metabolic markers which provides a systematic way to analyze metabolic networks due to genetic manipulations.
Krystle McCarson
"Interactions of: Ipomoea purpurea, Anoda cristata, Physalis wrightii and Capsicum annuum with Meloidogyne incognita and Verticillium dahliae."
Major: Entomology, Plant Pathology and Weed Sciences
Faculty Advisor: Professor Jill Schroeder, Entomology, Plant Pathology and Weed Scinces
Chile fields near Deming, New Mexico were found to be infested with: Anoda cristata (spurred anoda), Ipomoea purpurea (tall morningglory) and Physiallis wrightii (Wright's groundcherry). The weeds were infected with Meloidogyne incognita (Root-Knot Nematode, RKN) and Verticillium dahlia (VERT). Although the weeds appeared healthy the chile was dead. A greenhouse trial was conducted to determine the effect of inoculation with RKN, VERT or both on plant growth. Plants were treated at the 4 to 6 leaf stage and harvested 6 weeks after inoculation. Data included shoot, fruit, and root dry weights, presence or absence of VERT, and RKN eggs per gram of dry root. The experiment was designed as a generalized randomized complete block design. To compare treatment effects among host plants, shoot, root, and above ground (shoot + fruit) dry weights were normalized by the non-inoculated control and percentages were compared. Preliminary analysis identified no difference in growth responses among inoculation treatments. Chile growth, averaged across inoculation treatments, was reduced compared to weed species. Weed growth were unaffected or stimulated by the inoculation treatments. This study emphasizes the importance of weed management in crop production because weeds infesting crop fields could be harboring VERT, RKN, or both organisms.
Frances Marie Mena
"Preferential Emotional Signaling of Fitness-enhancing Information"
Major: Psychology and Anthropology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Tim Ketelaar, Psychology
MARC
The current study investigates whether facial displays of emotion in response to stimuli are actually signaling behaviors designed to signal the fitness enhancing benefits and whether these signals are displayed preferentially to kin and close friends. Participants were asked to drink a bitter, neutral and sweet tasting beverage while being videotaped. Of interest was whether participants would emit emotional signals of the possible fitness enhancing benefits of the sweet tasting substance or the possible contamination hazard of the bitter substance. These facial displays of emotion while tasting the drinks were compared to a canonical disgust facial display and to canonical "smiling" facial displays. Results indicate that while tasting the sweet drink, participants smiled more when observed by a genetic relative or friend than when observed by a stranger or when alone. Similarly, while tasting the bitter drink, participants displayed more disgust when observed by a genetic relative or friend than when observed by a stranger or when alone.
Enrique Mirazo
"Laser Beam Reader for Vinyl Records"
Major: Engineering Technology in Electronics
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Guillermo Rico, Engineering Technology
AMP, Undergraduate Research Assistantship program
The objective of this research is to design and build a device capable of reading with laser beams the audio content of vinyl records. This method will avoid the friction between the record and the needle thus obtaining a cleaner audio signal.
Records have their audio content in walls of small grooves around the disc. The walls of the grooves have different shapes which are read by a needle. We intend to replace this system by a reading mechanism using laser beams.
We will take advantage that the grooves reflect some light. By aiming a laser beam to the wall of the groove, the laser will be reflected in changing directions. Those changes will be detected by a multi-pixel optic sensor as the laser scans through different pixels; it will then output a sequence of digital numbers accordingly. This sequence will be converted into an audio signal by a decoder circuitry.
Our design must also have a tracking system. The tracking system will move and place the reading lasers trough the record with precision during the reproduction of audio process. The expected result is to obtain a clean audio signal using this mechanism of reading.
Leticia A Montoya
"Evaluating the role of CYP2S1-mediated Retinoic Acid metabolism in lung cells"
Major: Chemistry
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Aaron Rowland, Chemistry and Biochemistry
MARC
Cytochrome P450-2S1 (CYP2S1) is a drug metabolizing enzyme expressed in extra-hepatic tissues with little or no expression in the liver and is expressed throughout development, suggesting a possible role in metabolism of endogenous substrates. CYP2S1 expression is upregulated in hyperproliferative disorders, including psoriasis and cancer. The active form of Vitamin A, All-trans retinoic acid (RA) appears to be a likely yet a controversial candidate for the CYP2S1 endogenous substrate. Using bacterial-expressed CYP2S1, one study showed CYP2S1-mediated metabolism of RA to the inactive metabolites, another study failed to demonstrate these results. Our laboratory showed elevated CYP2S1 message and protein levels in response to RA in cultured lung alveolar (A549) and epithelial (Beas-2B) cells. We hypothesize that CYP2S1 is an important RA metabolic enzyme in lung cells. To evaluate the role of CYP2S1 in RA metabolism, a LC-MS protocol will be used to evaluate RA metabolism in lung cell lines which over and under express CYP2S1. Synthetic retinoids have shown promising results in lung cancer. However, resistance from elevated RA metabolism is a major impediment in this therapy. Our goal is to determine whether CYP2S1 metabolizes RA in lung cells. If so, CYP2S1 may be a novel target for lung cancer treatment. Supported by NIH GMO7667-31
Jessica Morgan
"Farmer Intentions for Long Term Land Uses & Implications for Food Security"
Major: Economics
Faculty Advisor: Constance Falk, Agricultural Economics
Honors Thesis
This project examines local food policy options that could be beneficial for Las Cruces, given the challenges of high prices for arable land, food prices, and the nutritional needs of people that will be affected. New Mexico is the state most heavily afflicted by food insecurity, making this issue of great significance. Policies that have been enacted in places such as Belo Horizonte, Brazil and Alachua County, Florida are analyzed to see their effectiveness in reducing the amount of hungry people. Also, a survey of local farmers was performed to learn about local farming operations and their hopes for the future of agriculture in southern New Mexico.
Amanda R. Muñoz
"Detection of Mannose Binding Lectin (MBL) Molecule in Euprymna scolopes (Hawaiian bobtail Squid)"
Major: Microbiology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Maria G. Castillo, Biology
RISE
Our laboratory studies the immune system in the squid, Euprymna scolopes, which is the host of a beneficial bacterial relationship with Vibrio fischeri. Like most marine invertebrates, little is known about the immune system of the squid. However, a previous report found the complement component C3 molecule in E. scolopes. Since C3 is thought to be essential in the complement pathway, the finding of this molecule hints at the presence of more components of this immune pathway in E. scolopes. The purpose of this project is to identify the presence of the mannose binding lectin (MBL) molecule in the squid. Identification of the MBL molecule would suggest that the squid utilizes the MBL (lectin) pathway of complement activation. To detect MBL, which is the beginning of the lectin pathway, we have constructed primers based on an EST from the E. scolopes light organ database with sequence homology to MBL molecules from other invertebrates. Standard techniques for RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, pcr, cloning, and sequencing were then used to yield preliminary data. Future studies involve the use of molecular techniques to obtain the full length of this molecule to confirm its identity and possible role in the squid-Vibrio symbiosis.
Michael J. Murphy
"Effect of Functional Isometric Squats on 40-Yard Dash in Trained Males: A Post-Activation Potentiation Pilot Study"
Major: Kinesiology
Faculty Advisor: Joseph M. Berning, Human Performance, Dance and Recreation
Functional Isometric (FI) weight training has been shown to elicit an enhanced neurological response known as a Post-Activation Potentiation (PAP) effect. PURPOSE: To investigate if trained males who performed a 5 second FI squat at 150% of 1RM would decrease 40-Yard dash time. METHODS: Five trained (age: 23.2±2.4 yrs, mass: 87.9±12.1 kg, ht: 180.0±10.0 cm) males participated in the study. Day 1: Forty-Yard dash time was measured using a Speed Trap II timing device. Next, individual 1RM back squat (1RM 143.6±35.6 kg) was determined. Day 2: Subjects reported back to the lab 3 to 5 days after initial testing. After a dynamic warm-up, subjects performed a 5 second FI squat at 150% of 1RM (215.5±38.8 kg). Immediately afterwards, subjects sat and rested for 4 minutes. At the end of the rest period, subjects performed the post 40-Yard dash. RESULTS: A paired samples t-test revealed post-FI 40-Yard time significantly (t(5) = 3.19, p = 0.033 ) decreased (0.28±0.20 sec) compared with their pre-FI 40-Yard dash. CONCLUSIONS: The study suggests a 5 second FI squat at 150% of 1RM will elicit a PAP effect in trained males as measured by a 40-Yard dash.
Gilbert Orosco
"The feed value of dry distillers grains plus soluble in 90% concentrate diets for feedlot lambs"
Major: Amimal Science
Faculty Advisor: Sergio Soto, Animal and Range Science
AMP
Twenty four Rambouillet lambs (31.3 ± 0.77 kg initially) were used in a 92-d finishing experiment in order to evaluate the feed value of dry distillers grains plus solubles (DDGS) in 90% concentrate diets. Four concentrations (8, 16, 24, and 32% of diet DM) of DDGS replaced dry-rolled corn in a 90% corn-based finishing diet. Lambs were housed individually and fed once daily at 0800. Fresh water was always available. Average daily gain tended to increase with increasing DDGS level (P = 0.09, quadratic; 261, 288, 280 and 257 ± 13.9 g/d for 8, 16, 24, and 32% DDGS, respectively). Dry matter intake (1,304, 1,256, 1,326 and 1,318 + 74.2 g/d for 8, 16, 24 and 32% DDGS, respectively), and G:F (181, 193, 198, and 188 ± 9.9 g/kg for 8, 16, 24, and 32% DDGS, respectively) were not affected (P ≥ 0.39) by DDGS replacement level. Hot carcass weight, LM area, backfat thickness, and marbling score were not affected (P ≥ 0.18) by increasing DDGS supplementation level. Although quality grade decreased (P = 0.03, linear) with increasing DDGS supplementation level, the average carcass quality grade in each treatment was within the choice category. We conclude that growth performance of lambs consuming 90% concentrate diets based on corn is not affected by level of DDGS replacement. Therefore, DDGS can be used in 90% concentrate diets based on corn up to 32% without negatively affecting the feed value of the diet.
Matthew Pinch
"Mutualism or Parasitism: The Relationship Between Locoweed and its Fungal Endophyte"
Major: Art
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Tracy Sterling, Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Weed Science
Locoweeds (Astragalus sp. and Oxytropis sp.) grow across the western United States and contain the alkaloid, swainsonine that is toxic to grazing livestock. It has recently been confirmed that a fungal endophyte is responsible for the production of swainsonine in locoweeds and that swainsonine production increased in tissue-cultured locoweed seedlings grown under water deficit conditions. To determine the relationship between the fungus and its host in terms of any competition between biomass production and swainsonine synthesis, plant growth and swainsonine production in greenhouse-grown locoweed plants were evaluated in the presence and absence of endophyte under water-deficit and well-watered conditions. Seeds with or without seed coats and inner membranes from Oxytropis sericea and Astragalus mollissimus var. mollissimus were germinated on moist filter paper and seedlings were established in soil in the greenhouse. Without-coat plants did not contain endophyte based on PCR analysis. Nine-month old plants were subjected to cycles of water-deficit stress where for 12 to 15 days control (well-watered) plants were watered to field capacity while water-deficit plants were watered at 50% field capacity. Water potential and swainsonine content were measured for samples from each treatment period. Total plant biomass will be measured at the conclusion of the experiment.
Bridgette Quintero, Robert Romero
"Using Clinoptilolite to Conserve Water in Agriculture - A Field Application"
Major: Civil Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. A. Salim Bawazir, Civil Engineering
AMP
Agricultural sandy soils of the arid Mesilla Valley, New Mexico, are susceptible to high infiltration and water evaporation rates. Therefore, to grow crops farmers tend to irrigate frequently to keep enough moisture in the plant root zone for plant development, resulting in high water demands. In an effort to conserve water, fine zeolite of clinoptilolite type was mixed with Mesilla Valley sandy soils at zeolite-soil ratios of 20%:80% and 40%:60% by volume. Samples of 100% zeolite and 100% sandy soils were used as controls for the experiment; a total of 32 individual tests. Out of the 32 tests, 16 plots were planted with pecan trees. The mixtures were irrigated with 35 gallons of water on each plot on a weekly basis. Moisture was monitored at depths of 6 and 18 inches in 16 of the 32 tests. Data was collected at a frequency of 1 sample per minute and averaged every 15 minutes using Decagon ECH2O® EC-5 soil moisture sensors. The data was stored on a data logger for later analysis. The final results are pending upon further data collection during the growing season of 2009 when the pecans will be actively and growing.
Thurman Redhouse Jr.
"Antimicrobial Activity in the Important Medicinal Plant Group Datura"
Major: Horticulture
Faculty Advisor: Mary O'Connell, Plant and Enviornmental Science
RISE
Many members of the genus Datura have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. These plants accumulate bioactive tropane alkaloids. The tropane alkaloids usually exert their effects on the neuromuscular system. The purpose of this study was to characterize methanolic extracts of the leaves from three species of Datura and screen for antimicrobial activity and potential anticancer activity. Leaves from Datura innoxia, Datura stramonium, and Datura metel were collected and dried. Extracts from the leaves were obtained by using an Automated Solvent Extractor (ASE) 350 with the chemicals hexane, chloroform, and methanol. The methanol extract collected was observed to determine if the same possible anticancer compound was found in the two Datura species. The microbial cultures were: Bacillus megaterium, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterobacter cloaceae, Klebsiell pneuoniae, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Candida kefyr, Staphylococcus aureus, Samonella enteritidis, Shigella flexneri, and Serratia marcesceus; along with mutant yeast strains: Bub3, Cln20e Cln20e/Rad14, Rad14, Rad50, Rad50/Epp+, Rad52, Mgt, Mlh, Mlh/Rad18, Sgs, Sgs/Mgt, Mec 2, and wild type. Turbidity measurements on overnight liquid cultures were used to screen for bioactivity. This research was supported in part by NM AES, and grants from USDA CSREES 2008-34604-19434; NIH RISE GM61222, SCORE GM08136, MI/CCP U54 CA132383, or NIH Bridges.
Eric Rivera, Luis Villareal
"Arsenic Removal for Potable Water Using a Low-tech Fe Coagulation/Filtration System"
Major: Civil Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Adrian Hanson, Civil Engineering
AMP
Approximately 20% of the water systems in New Mexico will be required to remove arsenic from drinking water under new regulations. In 2004, the Drinking Water Bureau of the New Mexico Environment Department estimated that 95 water systems in New Mexico, representing 756,000 people or 41% of the states' population, are affected by the states new arsenic maximum contamination level (MCL)(State of New Mexico Arsenic Compliance Strategy August 2004). The vast majority of these are poorly funded small systems. Most of the arsenic removal systems currently being designed and installed in the state of New Mexico are small but exorbitant to maintain because the consumable specialty media are very costly. For many small communities this consumable cost, on average $30,000 or more per year, is not sustainable. This project is attempting to demonstrate that a small scale Iron (Fe) coagulation/filtration system can meet or surpass the states MCL for arsenic while reducing the operations and maintenance cost down to an estimated $1,000 per year.
Ferdinand M. Rivera
"Competition through bacterial allelopathy in symbiotic bacterium Vibrio fischeri"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Michele K. Nishiguchi, Biology
MARC
Vibrio fischeri is a symbiotic bioluminescent bacterium found in both sepiolid squids and monocentrid fishes. V. fischeri colonizes the light organs of sepiolid squids, resulting in a mutualistic relationship in which the squid provides the bacteria with a hospitable microenvironment and the bacteria in return provides the ability for counterillumination as an anti-predatory behavior. The presence of multiple Vibrio populations within and between host squid and is genetically diverse, yet its genetic diversity and spatially distributed populations are not fully implicit. One cause for this difference may be due to bacterial allelopathy. Bacterial allelopathy is a type of interaction in which one bacterial strain produces toxic substances to inhibit similar strains as a competitive mechanism. Previous research suggests that this type of antagonistic interaction may be a factor to V. fischeri's ecological spatial distribution and genetic diversity. Thus, the goal of our study is to understand if such strategies exist within V. fischeri's genetic breadth, and to identify if biotic factors such as allelopathy play a role in the diversification of V. fischeri. By measuring growth and luminescence of specific V. fischeri strains in spent media of competing strains, we hope to identify whether such interactions occur with V. fischeri.
John M. Rivera
"The isolation of ethanol-reduced susceptibility mutants of Staphylococcus aureus"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. John E. Gustafson, Microbiology
MARC
Staphylococcus aureus is the leading cause of hospital born infections and is transmitted via contaminated hands. Poor hand-washing compliance among healthcare workers has led to widespread use of ethanol based hand gels. The bactericidal effects of ethanol are due to its ability to denature bacterial proteins and membranes. In an effort to better understand the affects of ethanol on S. aureus, we isolated ethanol-reduced susceptibility (ERS) mutants. Initially, S. aureus strains, SH1000 and COL, were stepwise adapted in media containing increasing ethanol concentrations (up to 15% vol/vol) over 68 days. Three COL ERS mutants grew slower in liquid media, yet grew better than COL when 3% ethanol was added. Interestingly, one SH1000 ERS mutant grew faster than SH1000, and slower in 3% ethanol media. Staphyloxanthin is an orange pigment that S. aureus produces for protection against oxidative stress. The levels of staphyloxanthin produced by SH1000 ERS mutants were less compared to SH1000, while two COL ERS mutants produced more staphyloxanthin than COL. We conclude that mutations leading to the ERS phenotype include altered growth rates and staphyloxanthin production. In addition, the levels of ethanol resistance expressed would not protect ERS mutants from the concentration of ethanol present in hand gels.
Chevel Rodriguez
"Geochemistry of Petrified Wood with Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy"
Major: Geology & Geography
Faculty Advisor: Nancy McMillan, Geological Sciences
AMP
Although the chromophores (color-producing elements) are widely quoted in the literature, there is very little scientific data supporting which elements cause the colors in petrified wood. LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) is used to analyze the chromophores within petrified wood. In LIBS, a laser pulse forms plasma made of atoms ablated from the wood surface. Various wavelengths of light are then emitted from atoms in the plasma. This light is collected by optic fiber, diffracted, and recorded by computer. The peaks in the wavelengths are then analyzed to determine the corresponding chemical element. There is controversy in the literature about chromophores in petrified wood. For instance, according to the National Parks Service the green color is produced by pure reduced iron (National Parks Service, 1998) and according to F.M. Hueber at the Smithsonian Institute, the green color is produced by large quantities of chromium (Hueber, F.M., 1998, v.30). By analyzing petrified wood of different colors, this research will determine which elements or minerals cause colors. The elements will then be recorded and rendered into a chemical map which will be displayed at the New Mexico State University Zuhl Museum collection.
Thomas Ray Rodriguez
"Hydrogen Gas Production by Dairy Farm Wastewater Treatment Lagoon Inoculates"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Geoffrey B. Smith, Biology
MARC
As fossil fuel consumption is affecting global warming and is simultaneously becoming a limiting fuel source, alternative fuel sources are being sought. Biohydrogen production by fermentative prokaryotes may be a source for the clean alternative fuel source, hydrogen gas. Dairy farms utilize wastewater treatment lagoons that employ an ecosystem of microbes to degrade animal waste products. Included in these lagoons are fermentative prokaryotes. Using reactors, water samples from two wastewater treatment lagoons, one of which is mechanically aerated and the other naturally, were incubated under a combination of four different conditions: pH 5 and 7, and with or without the presence of light, to determine which conditions favored hydrogen gas as a fermentative product. Using a gas chromatograph hydrogen gas was produced at the highest concentration (5.21%) when grown in the presence of light with an initially neutral pH. Hydrogen gas producing prokaryotes were present within water samples of both lagoons. Seasonal changes may affect the microflora found within these lagoons with changes in sun intensity and temperature, which may favor growth of the fermentative prokaryotes better. The mechanically aerated lagoon may also allow for a greater abundance of aerobic and facultative prokaryotes which also affects the composition of the microflora within the lagoon. Results suggest that in-situ hydrogen production on dairy farms may be a feasible source of energy.
Grant #NIH GMO7667-31
Joslynn Romero
"Identification of Conserved Domains in Beta-Carotene hydroxylase, a P450 enzyme"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Mary O'Connell, Plant & Enviornmental Sciences
Carotenoids are primary metabolites in plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria essential for proper growth and development. The carotenoid family is responsible for the colorful pigmentation of many plants and vegetables. There are two types of carotenoides: carotenes and xanthophylls. The synthesis of both carotenes and xanthophylls is an important process in all photosynthetic organisms. Beta-carotene, the pro-vitamin A carotene is hydroxylated by beta-carotene hydroxylase beginning the production of non-provitamin A compounds known as xanthophylls. Many organisms have evolved considerably far from each other however many of the important enzymes remain at a high level of conservatism. The predicted amino acid sequence for beta-carotene hydroxylase from C. annnum was used to search GenBank for homologous gene sequences from other plants and microbes. Conserved domains in the amino acid sequence were identified following multiple sequence alignments these results will be discussed in terms of the role of these regions for enzyme function. Phylogenetic trees representing the predicted relationship among these protein sequences will also be presented and discussed.
Marie Romero
"Genetic Detection of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism within Transcription Factor Genes for Iron Deficiency Chlorosis"
Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Rebecca Creamer, EPPWS
SoyMap
Iron Deficiency Chlorosis (IDC) in Glycine max L.Merrill is a complex trait with many factors acting upon it. In the upper Midwest of the United States the high pH of the calcareous soil hinders the plants uptake of iron from the soil. Lack of iron uptake from the roots limits the amount of iron available for chlorophyll production that causes the phenotypic characteristic yellowing of leaves and stunted growth which leads to low production yields. In a previous Affymetrix Microarray study, IsoClark (iron inefficient) showed that 200 genes were differentially expressed in response to iron deficient conditions. In contrast, Clark (iron efficient) had 800 genes that were differentially expressed.
The genes identified from the microarray experiment were mapped to the 7X whole genome assembly. However, they did not map as expected to the known iron QTLs (unpublished results). The mapping results showed a high number of differentially expressed genes between Clark and its Isoline, IsoClark, this leads us to believe that a regulatory factor may lie within the quantitative trait loci (QTL) that would act upon the large number of expressed genes due to iron stress. To test this we devised an experiment that would look for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in transcription factors within the known iron QTLs.
Laura Salguero
"Identification and characterization of minimal ARNT-binding AINT fragments"
Major: Physics
Faculty Advisor: Jacob Urquidi, Physics
MARC
The HIF (Hypoxia Inducible Factor) transcription factor is composed of two proteins: HIF-α and HIF-β (a.k.a. ARNT ARyl hydrocarbon Nuclear Translocator). These two proteins bind each other in response to signals from the cell that it has encountered low oxygen levels; most of these interactions occur via protein-protein interaction domains called PAS (Per-ARNT-Sim) domains in each protein. NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography was used to solve the structures of a heterodimeric complex of PAS domains from both HIF-2α and ARNT: This structure has provided insights both into the nature of the interaction and information about how it might be controlled. Controlling HIF signaling is important because solid tumors can use this to send out a variety of biochemical signals that trigger new blood vessel formation and other responses that let them adapt to low oxygen levels. This project focused on studying the next step in hypoxia signaling: how the HIF-&alpha/β heterodimer recruits a coactivator protein, AINT (ARNT INTeracting). This is of particular interest in that initial data suggests that AINT interacts directly with the ARNT PAS-B domain, implicating a new type of protein-protein interaction that PAS domains might be able to participate in.
Michael Sandoval
"Mutation Anaylsis of Grb7 and Grb14 Binding Specificity"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Babara Lyons, Biochemistry
RISE
Although the Grb7 and Grb14 proteins closely resemble each other in amino acid identity, they bind to different receptors and select for very different signaling pathways. In this research project, we are replacing residues in the Grb7SH2 domain, with the corresponding residues from the Grb14SH2 domain. We are investigating whether these mutations will switch the binding specificity of Grb7 to that of Grb14. Specifically, we are changing three consecutive residues that reside in the Grb7SH2-EF loop, from FSM, to the residues HTL. We will then test this Grb7SH2 mutant for its ability to bind Grb14 peptide ligands. We will use nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) to measure ligand binding effectiveness. To achieve the amino acid mutations, basic molecular biology techniques are being implemented.
Erin Schneider
"Injury Trends as a Function of Player Position"
Major: Athletic Training Education
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Cheryl Coker, HPRD
Honors Thesis
The purpose of this study was to determine if player position can predispose an athlete to a particular upper extremity injury. According to Barrett, Burton, and Bennett (2002), outfielders predominantly use an over head throwing technique. In contrast, infielders were found to use a variety of throwing techniques including sidearm, underarm, and overhead. Given the use of different throwing techniques among infielders versus outfielders certain injury trends may emerge as a function of player position. To explore if such trends exists, a survey consisting of six questions pertaining to the type and frequency of shoulder and elbow injuries incurred during the 2007-2008 season by both infielders and outfielders was created. An email was sent out to all NCAA Division I baseball athletic trainers requesting their participation in this study and directing them to the survey website. If a baseball athletic trainer was not indicated by the school's athletic website, then the email was sent to the head athletic trainer requesting their participation (N=295). It was hypothesized that infielders would show a trend towards more elbow injuries because of the varied throwing techniques while outfielders would show a trend towards more shoulder injuries due to the consistent overhead throwing motion.
Dan Short
"Estimation of Temperatures in the Outer Envelope of Exoplanets From Observed Compositional Abundance Patterns"
Major: Physics
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Boris Kiefer, Physics
One of the oldest quests of mankind is to determine if we are alone in the universe. The answer to this question relies heavily on our ability to identify remote planets that can maintain liquid water on their surfaces. One of the major sources of information about the composition and chemistry of the atmospheres of exoplanets is provided by the Spitzer IR observatory that was launched in 2003. Most of the detected planets so far lie between 0.1 and 5 AU from the central star. This distance range shows significant overlap with the region in planetary systems where liquid water may exist, ~1-10 AU. In order to establish the presence of liquid water on these planets it is crucial to know the thermal structure at least in their outer envelopes. We will attempt to use the pressure/temperature dependence of chemical reactions and the presence/absence of typical atmospheric molecules such as CH4, CO, CO2, and H2O to estimate average temperatures below the atmospheres of these planets. If successful this method could serve as a simple indicator for the presence of liquid water which is thought to be a prerequisite of life.
Jesus Sigala and Felly Montelya
"Assessment of a novel source-tracking protocol for evaluating the significance of municipal wastewater sources on the microbial contaminant levels of discharged wastewaters"
Major: Environmental Science
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Adrian Unc, Plant and Environmental Sciences
AMP, WRRI
Water pollution is a growing problem worldwide. The emergence of water-borne human diseases associated with microbial pollution of water bodies as well as numerous reports of antibiotic resistant microorganisms in the environment indicate a need to reassess our activities in an effort to remediate the current conditions. One possibility is to improve wastewater treatment of antibiotic resistant microbial loads. In preliminary studies, we have shown that in wastewater samples, the proportion of antibiotic resistant bacteria increases throughout the wastewater treatment process. Our current research is focused on understanding the impact that a source has on survival of antibiotic resistant microbes throughout the treatment and on the transfer of antibiotic resistant genes to the microbial community. The sources of interest include residential, industrial, public venues, and medical facilities. Our goal is to correlate pretreatment sources and survival of antibiotic resistant microbial loads at any given treatment stage. In doing so, we can develop a source tracking method to identify resistant organisms with their source. We collected numerous samples, and inoculated the samples on agar plates with antibiotic to select for those microbes with antibiotic resistance, extracted DNA from the agar plate growth, and performed PCR using rpoB primers. We are completing DGGE for all samples and hope to have statistical analysis of the results at the time of the conference.
Matteo Rey Silva
"Foraging of Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus) in Response to Turbidity and Temperature"
Major: Wildlife Biology: Option Preparation for Graduate Studies
Faculty Advisor: Wiebke J. Boeing, Dept. of Fish, Wildlife & Conservation Ecology
MARC
Senegal bichir (Polypterus senegalus) are potentially important elements of food webs given their predatory behavior and relative abundance. However, Polypterus are of commercial importance in African fisheries while maintaining low resilience with a minimum population doubling time of 14 years and exhibiting a moderate vulnerability of 26.61. Human impacts (increased turbidity due to livestock and construction) as well as increased temperature due to climate change stand to impact Polypertus species. Few studies have examined predatory and foraging behaviors in Polypterus. Therefore, this project is aimed at examining the effects of increased turbidity and temperature on foraging success of juvenile Senegal bichirs preying on earthworms (Lumbricus terrestris). Senegal bichirs exhibit ambush foraging. Preliminary experimentation demonstrates a lag in initial response time to stimuli in high temperature and increased turbid conditions, suggesting that successful foraging of Senegal bichir, a lie-and-wait predator, is influenced by abiotic environmental factors. Supported by GR0002321, NIH GMO7667-31.
Mark Smith
"How Susceptible to Pesticide Contamination are New Mexico's Aquifers?""
Major: Geography, and Management
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Bobby Creel, Water Resources Research Institute
The purpose of this project is to show areas of vulnerability in aquifers which have the potential to contaminate groundwater with certain pesticides. Aquifer sensitivity is a "function of the intrinsic characteristics of the geologic material in question, any underlying saturated materials, and the overlying unsaturated zone" (USEPA, 1993). This aquifer sensitivity is calculated using the DRASTIC model; which includes the following parameters: (D) depth to groundwater, (R) recharge rate of the aquifer, (A) aquifer media, (S) soil type, (T) topographic slope, (I) impact of the vadose zone, and (C) hydraulic conductivity. Each parameter has an assigned weight determined by the amount of impact by the pesticide on the aquifer; the higher the weight, the more impact the parameter has on affecting the aquifer sensitivity, and vice-versa.
This project also consists of ten interactive mapping services available online at: http://river.nmsu.edu/website/nmda/; these include statewide and regional maps that display aquifer sensitivity. Additional layers in the final maps include DOQQs, land use, watershed regions, and more that enhance the detail of the regions. Functions of the online mapping service make the maps interactive. Users can pan and zoom around the map, buffer features, perform queries, measure distances, and print customized maps.
Juan Solis and Timothy Woo
"A Joint Investigation of Evapotranspiration Depletion of Treated and Non-Treated Saltcedar at the Elephant Butte and Caballo Reservoirs, New Mexico"
Major: Civil Engineering
Faculty Advisor: Dr. A. Salim Bawazir, Civil Engineering
AMP
Saltcedar (Tamarix sp.) is an introduced plant that has spread throughout riparian regions in the Southwest. A dense mature stand of saltcedar is known to consume large amounts of water, to replace indigenous vegetation such as cottonwoods and willows, and is difficult to manage. A mature stand of riparian dense saltcedar is known to use about 1300 mm per year. Currently, several methods such as by herbicide treatment, mowing, or biological control are used to manage the saltcedar. This study investigated the amount of water lost by evapotranspiration process near Elephant Butte and Caballo, New Mexico where saltcedar had been treated by herbicide application and by mowing. Evapotranspiration (ET) was measured using the energy budget method for 312 days in 2008. At the mowed site, Caballo, ET was 996 mm for a 2 m tall saltcedar stand; at the herbicide-treated site, Elephant Butte, ET was 596 mm. The saltcedar had been mowed in 2007 but was not mowed in 2008. Total precipitation of 287 mm in 2008 contributed to high evaporation rates at the two sites. Of the total precipitation, 177 mm or 62% of precipitation occurred during the warm months of July and August which contributed to measured evapotranspiration.
Carla Trujillo, Jacquelyn Stanton, Aerial Singleton
"Global Cerebral Ischemia and Anaerobic Brain Metabolism in Rats"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Marvin Bernstein, Biology
RISE
As part of a larger study on anaerobic metabolic pathways in ischemic rat brain, this study investigated the conversion to lactate production and related changes when blood flow was stopped (global cerebral ischemia, GCI). We measured glucose, lactate, pH and blood gases in simultaneously collected arterial blood (blood entering head) and jugular venous blood (blood leaving head). Rats were anesthetized and hemorrhaged to decrease arterial pressure (hypotension), and therefore blood flow in the vertebral arteries. The carotid arteries were then bilaterally occluded for 12 min. Blood samples were obtained before and after hypotension, and then immediately after 12 min of GCI. Glucose decreased, during both hypotension and GCI, in both arterial and venous blood samples. After GCI, PO2 in jugular blood decreased and PCO2 increased. These results indicate that flow to the brain had been interrupted. Lactate increased sharply in jugular venous samples after GCI, indicating that anaerobic metabolism in the brain was predominant during GCI-induced hypoxia. Rats were acidotic both systemically and in the brain, probably from increased levels of lactate. Direct measurements of blood entering and leaving the brain provide a better understanding of the brain's reaction to hypoxia. Supported by NIGMS (MBRS RISE grant GM61222).
Miles Tucker
"On Indicative Conditionals"
Major: Philosophy
Faculty Advisor: Jean-Paul Vessel, Philosophy
Philosophers have had difficulties dealing with "If, then" sentences. Many have held that these conditionals statements, with some exceptions, may be interpreted truth-functionally. However, this approach produces counter-intuitive results, often called the paradoxes of implication. Indeed, sentences such as "If I'm left handed, then if I'm not left handed then Elvis is alive" are rendered true under the truth-functional account, despite their unsettling constructions.
In response to these problems, philosophers have often argued that the basic truth-functional scheme should be replaced by a more sophisticated interpretation that provides a different answer about these sorts of sentences. I hope to defend the truth-functional account. I will argue that while the implications of the view are initially unsettling, these counter-intuitive results may be explained away by careful analysis. I hope to show also that that our problems with the paradoxes of implication do not lie in their logical structure but in our conversational expectations about everyday English.
Stewart M. Burk Vidmar
"A Cold Strategy for a New War: The George W. Bush Administration and Venezuela (2001-2008)"
Major: Government
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Nancy Baker, Government
Honors Thesis
After President Hugo Chavez came to power, relations between the United States and Venezuela began to deteriorate. Venezuela has traditionally been an example of a stable democracy in Latin America and a close ally, and worsening relations with the United States are a troubling sign in light of an increasingly powerful China and a reassertive Russia. This thesis analyzes the foreign policy of the George W. Bush administration through the lens of Cold War-era strategies employed against leftist Latin American nations during the Cold War. Bush policy towards Venezuela is compared to policies in three historical case studies: Chile, where the U.S. engineered elections; Nicaragua, where the U.S. channeled funds to opposition groups; and Grenada, which the United States openly invaded. The Bush administration's policy towards Venezuela exhibited many of these signs; funds were channeled to opposition groups through various endowments and institutions, technically non-governmental organizations used tax dollars to oversee and report on elections, and the perception still exists that the U.S. government was involved in the 2002 coup against Chavez. The findings of this thesis suggest that members of the Bush administration tackled the Venezuela problem in the mindset of the Cold War, a policy which proved ineffective.
Melissa Wilson
"Effects of Survival Instinct on Rate of Visual Detection"
Major: Psychology
Faculty Advisor: Justin MacDonald, Psychology
MARC
Visual detection can be defined as the process of visually locating objects; it is one component of the sensory system which was developed in order to maximize survival performance and evolutionary fitness. This study proposes that the speed of visual detection increases after participants are primed with a survival scenario. This experiment is structured as a between subjects design where one group of participants will be primed with a survival scenario, promoting the necessity for quickly detecting a fearful cue amongst other objects. The other group of participants will be asked to find the same cue amongst the same objects but will receive a scenario unrelated to survival. Expected results will show that the participants who are primed with a survival scenario will detect a fearful cue faster and more accurately than those who are primed with a scenario unrelated to survival. The importance of this experiment is that survival instinct still exists within each individual even though many are unaware of it. It also may suggest that engaging our survival instincts may promote better performance of the sensory system.
Grant #NIH GMO7667-30
RaeAnna M. Wilson
"Phenotypic characterization of DNA damage response genes in Escherichia coli"
Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Advisor: Shelley Lusetti, Chemistry and Biochemistry
Honors Thesis
Antibiotic resistant bacteria pose a significant threat to public health. Bacteria can acquire resistance to antibiotics through chromosomal mutations. High rates of resistance-conferring chromosomal mutations are due to pathways induced to repair DNA damaged either directly or indirectly by the drug. The SOS response of the bacterium Escherichia coli is a regulated system induced upon exposure to various cellular stressors, including DNA damage. The response is characterized by the up-regulation of many genes with well-characterized functions in various aspects of DNA metabolism including DNA replication, recombination and repair. However, many genes of unknown function are also regulated by this system. In an attempt to define the role of novel genes such as yebG, dinD, ydjQ, yigN and yfgB, we have constructed several chromosomal knockout strains. These strains have been tested for sensitivity to U.V.-irradiation, a treatment causing DNA damage. We have also initiated biochemical characterization of the protein products. This research will help further define the bacterial pathways induced under stress conditions that potentially culminate in chromosomal mutation.
Natasha Yazzie
"Structural Study of Human Siderocalin and Iron bound Siderophore, Vibriobactin"
Major: Biology
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Antonio Lara, Chemistry
RISE
In all microorganisms, iron is an essential element for growth and survival. To acquire iron from their host and environment, bacteria and fungi release small organic molecules called siderophores, which are iron-chelators that bind to scarcely available iron III (Fe3). One bacterium that utilizes this system of iron transport, Vibrio cholerae, is the causative agent of the severe diarrheal disease cholera. In order to acquire iron from its host, V. cholerae secretes the siderophore vibriobactin. In response to a bacterial infection, neutrophil granules from the human immune system secrete the bacteriostatic protein Siderocalin (Scn) that binds to iron bound siderophores. Studies have shown that Scn binds to siderophores vibriobactin and enterobactin (from Escherichia coli) despite their different chemical structures. To understand at the structural level how Scn interacts with iron bound siderophore vibriobactin, we have over-expressed and purified human Scn from E. coli. Scn was then loaded with Fe-vibriobactin and set into crystallization trials. Potential crystal formation from crystallization trials will be scaled up. Once crystals are obtained, we will perform crystallographic experiments to obtain details about the Scn Fe-Vibriobactin interaction.
Jessica A. Young
"Investigation into the Mechanism of Hydrogen Atom Transfer to an Iron Nitrido Complex"
Major: Chemistry
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jeremy Smith, Chemistry
Honors Thesis, Honors College, URIG
The FeN unit is of fundamental interest because of its potential as a model for the biological production of ammonia from dinitrogen. The formation of ammonia has been investigated in two small molecule model complexes containing the FeN moeity. Importantly, one of these complexes gives high yields of ammonia upon reaction with a hydrogen atom donor. The first N-H bond forming event has been investigated through spectroscopic investigations involving binding affinities and exchange kinetics. The mechanism(s) of N-H bond formation in these well-characterized iron complexes is expected to provide insight into the reactivity of similar intermediates in cycles for the reduction of N2 to NH3.