4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 1 -

Table of Contents

Agenda ...... 3 Campus Map, Floor Plan and Meeting Rooms...... 4‐6 Presentation Schedules Oral Presentations ...... 7, 9 Poster Presentations...... 7, 8, 9, 10 Exhibits...... 8, 10 Creative Performances ...... 11 Lunch Box Sessions ...... 12 Listing of Abstracts...... 13 Explorations ...... 133 Recognition of Sponsors...... 134 SNCURCS Statistics...... 135 Notes pages...... 136 Index of Student Authors ...... 140

The Office of Student Research is a unit within Appalachian’s University College. University College consists of the university’s integrated general education curriculum, academic support services, residential learning communities, interdisciplinary degree programs and co-curricular programming – all designed to support the work of students both inside and outside of the classroom.

- 2 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Agenda

Agenda

Time Activity Location

On-site registration, pick up name tags, abstract PSU 1st Floor * 7:00-8:25 a.m. booklets (Registration will continue until 2) Lobby near Cascades Cafe

Opening remarks 8:30-8:55 a.m. Dr. Stan Aeschleman, Provost and Executive Vice PSU Blue Ridge Ballroom Chancellor, Appalachian State University

9:00-11:45 Undergraduate Student Presentations PSU, various rooms a.m. (concurrent exhibits, oral, performances and posters) (Please see schedule)

Noon-12:55 Lunchbox sessions PSU, various rooms p.m.

Undergraduate Student Presentations 1:00-4:00 (concurrent exhibits, oral, performances and posters) PSU, various rooms p.m. (Poster set-up begins at 1:00 with poster sessions (Please see schedule) officially starting at 1:30)

* PSU = Plemmons Student Union

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 3 - - 4 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Hawksbill Game Room Crossroads Coffee House Casades Cafe Catawba River Room Calloway Peak Room Attic Window Room FIR S T F L OOR 113 119 116 108 138a 137c New River Room Multicultural Center MacRae Peak Room Looking Glass Gallery Desk Information Grandfather Ballroom 100 112 137b 114 121 137 Yadkin River Room Women’s Center Watauga River Room Summit Trail Solarium Roan Mountain Room 106 110 102 118 120 R e s troom El evator s F ood Service s R ecreation/ F itne ss Programming/ M eeting S p A dmini s trative/Student O ffice s Lounge/Socia l A rea s Student Service s

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4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 5 - S ECOND F L OOR Greenbriar Theater Greek Office CSIL Offices Computer Lab Club Council Blue Ridge Ballroom Black Student Association APPS ACT Community Outreach Center 200 203 219 235 214 201 210 233 218 Scheduling Rhododendron Room Profile Trail Lounge Price Lake Room Peer Career Mountain Laurel Room McAlister’s Deli Linville Falls Room Judicial Affairs 201a 231 227 240 216 229 208 226 221 Wiseman’s View Lounge Whitewater Table Rock Room Student Publications Student Programs Office Assoc. Student Government Solarium Balcony 201b 222 220 213 231 213 242 R e s troom El evator s F ood Service s R ecreation/ F itne ss Programming/ M eeting S p A dmini s trative/Student O ffice s Lounge/Socia l A rea s Student Service s

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- 6 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Presentation Schedules

Room Type Time # Presenter (Student first and last name) Student Institution Student Major Title INVASIVE DOMESTIC CARNIVORES CONTRIBUTE TO A LOCALIZED Oral 9:00 AM 1 Matthew Vanhoy Pfeiffer University ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE EXTINCTION OF MADAGASCAR'S LARGEST ENDEMIC CARNIVORE, THE FOSA (CRYPTOPROCTA FEROX) WILL RECYCLE BINS PAINTED TO LOOK LIKE COWS ALTER RECYCLING 2 137A Oral 9:15 AM Rachel Roberts Catawba College ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE BEHAVIOR? Oral 9:30 AM 3 Steven Martin Appalachian State University COMPUTER SCIENCE LIFTING MEDICAL IMAGES ON MULTI-CORE SYSTEMS Calloway Peak Oral 9:45 AM 4 Michael Eni Fayetteville State University COMPUTER SCIENCE VISUAL STUDIO 2005 PERFORMANCE IN RELATION TO 2008 VERSION University of North Carolina at Oral 9:00 AM 5 Sina Tashakkori BIOCHEMISTRY SYNTHESIS OF BIODIESEL USING ORGANIC BASES Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at Oral 9:15 AM 6 Lindsay Willis BIOLOGY THE CONSEQUENCES OF SPACE FLIGHT ON THE HUMAN IMMUNE SYSTEM Pembroke THE EFFECTS OF MOVEMENT ON CALCIFICATION IN NEWLY SETTLED Oral 9:30 AM 7 Katrina Pergerson Catawba College BIOLOGY CORAL POLYPS THE DETERMINATION OF THE TOTAL ANTHOCYANIN CONTENT IN University of North Carolina at

MacRae Peak 137B Oral 9:45 AM 8 Rhonda McClure BIOLOGY COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE BILBERRY CAPSULES USING PH- Pembroke DIFFERENTIAL SPECTROPHOTOMETRY ROMA POPULATION'S Oral 9:00 AM 9 Joo en Kim Mars Hill College BIOLOGY PAST AND PRESENT GENE EXPRESSION IN THE OCULOMOTOR NEURAL INTEGRATORS OF THE Oral 9:15 AM 10 Tiffany Lee East Carolina University BIOLOGY MORNING (9:00 AM - 11:45 AM ) AM - 11:45 MORNING (9:00 ZEBRAFISH VITELLOGENESIS INDUCTION IN MALE FISH EXPOSED TO MUNICIPAL Oral 9:30 AM 1 1 Michael Colgan Appalachian State University BIOLOGY WASTEWATER EFFLUENT ESTROGENS IN AN APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN STREAM

Attic Window 137 C Window Attic North Carolina School of Science BEHAVIORAL EFFECTS OF NPFF RECEPTOR KNOCK-DOWN IN DOPAMINE Oral 9:45 AM 12 Rosemary Shay BIOLOGY and Mathematics TRANSPORTER (DAT) KNOCK-OUT (KO) MICE NEW METHOD FOR CALCULATING SKIN FRICTION AT TRANSITION FROM Oral 10:00 AM 13 Whitney Lohmeyer North Carolina State University AEROSPACE ENGINEERING LAMINAR TO TURBULENT BOUNDARY LAYERS PROGRAM FOR THE ESTIMATION OF SPACECRAFT AERODYNAMIC Oral 10:15 AM 14 Michael Pearce North Carolina State University AEROSPACE ENGINEERING PROPERTIES University of North Carolina at ANALYSIS RESULTS FOR THE PRIMEX PBW04 CRYSTAL PROTOTYPE Oral 10:30 AM 15 Erik Minges PHYSICS Wilmington DETECTOR BEAM TEST DEVELOPMENT OF A MICRO-SCALE MASS SPECTROMETER UTILIZING Oral 10:45 AM 16 Zach Russell Appalachian State University PHYSICS CARBON NANOTUBES AND MEMS FABRICATION TECHNOLOGY MODELING GAMMA RAY BURST Oral 11:00 AM 17 Elise Weaver Guilford College PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY 080710 Calloway Peak 137A CHARACTERIZATION OF OXFORD INSTRUMENT'S SILICON DRIFT Oral 11:15 AM 18 Ashley Roberts Appalachian State University PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY DETECTOR PROTOTYPE ON A SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPE FEASIBILITY OF ELECTRONIC LONG BASELINE RADIO INTERFEROMETRY Oral 11:30 AM 19 Jon Poe Guilford College PHYSICS IN SMALL COLLEGE SETTING INVESTIGATING CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AND EMPLOYEE TURNOVER Oral 10:00 AM 20 Shannon Canady Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION RATE IN THE RESTAURANT INDUSTRY: THE CASE OF O'CHARLEY'S. EFFECTS OF GLOBAL WARMING ON THE RESTAURANT Oral 10:15 AM 21 Laura DiNunzio Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION INDUSTRY ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN THE US LODGING INDUSTRY Oral 10:30 AM 22 Anthony Ingle Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION THROUGH HIGH HAMPTON INN AND COUNTRY CLUB SPEED BARRIERS ARE A SUCCESSFUL CONSERVATION MEASURE IN Oral 10:45 AM 23 Tiffany Pan Duke University ANTHROPOLOGY MITIGATING THE IMPACT OF ROADKILL ON WILDLIFE IN ANKARAFANTSIKA NATIONAL PARK, MADAGASCAR AN ANALYSIS OF OBSERVED URBAN HEAT ISLAND IN GREENVILLE, NORTH Oral 11:00 AM 24 Linwood Hall East Carolina University GEOGRAPHY CAROLINA AND ITS IMPLICATION ON ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND MacRae Peak 137B ENVIRONMENT University of North Carolina at THE INFLUENCE OF COSMETIC TREATMENTS ON THE STABILITY OF Oral 11:15 AM 25 Iner Lowery CHEMISTRY Pembroke DEXTROMETHORPHAN University of North Carolina at MORNING (9:00 AM - 11:45 AM ) AM - 11:45 MORNING (9:00 Oral 11:30 AM 26 Eric Butter BIOCHEMISTRY SOCIO-ECONOMIC DIABETES RISK FACTORS IN CLEVELAND, MISSISSIPPI Chapel Hill STRENGTH IN THE MIDST OF LOSS AND DESPAIR: HIV/AIDS AND THE Oral 10:00 AM 27 Erica Adelman Appalachian State University HISTORY GROWING NUMBERS OF ORPHANS IN SOUTH AFRICA Oral 10:15 AM 28 Ashley Brooks Chowan University HISTORY READ SCARE?: PRESS COVERAGE OF THE 1929 GASTONIA STRIKE, 1929-1999 JIM WAYNE MILLER: Oral 10:30 AM 29 Brandon Johnson Mars Hill College ENGLISH THE HERO BRIER HOW JANE GOT HER GROOVE BACK: WHY ARE WE SO OBSESSED WITH Oral 10:45 AM 30 Heather Wright Mars Hill College ENGLISH JANE AUSTEN AND WHAT ARE WE GETTING WRONG? GLOBALIZATION-DESTRUCTION OR SALVATION FOR DEVELOPING Oral 11:00 AM 31 Barbara Hugl Mars Hill College INTERNATIONAL STUDIES COUNTRIES? Attic Window 137 C Window Attic WOULD JESUS KILL HITLER?-DIETRICH BONHOEFFER'S THEOLOGY OF Oral 11:15 AM 32 Jessica Blanford Mars Hill College RELIGIOUS STUDIES GRACE AND OBEDIENCE AND HOW HE LIVED IT OUT! RELIGIOUS LEGITIMATIONS OF THE THIRD REICH, COMING FROM THE Oral 11:30 AM 33 Jason Villegas Chowan University RELIGIOUS STUDIES GERMAN, PROTESTANT REICH CHURCH DETECTION OF IMMUNE-RELATED OXIDATIVE STRESS IN AN ALZHEIMER'S Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.1 Jennifer Abelin Guilford College CHEMISTRY DISEASE MODEL University of North Carolina at CLONING THE SUPPRESSOR OF A HISTONE VARIANT (HTZ1)-RNA POL II Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.2 Francina Abengowe BIOLOGY Pembroke SUBUNIT DOUBLE MUTANT, WHICH AFFECTS TRANSCRIPTION University of North Carolina at METHODOLOGY TOWARDS THE SYNTHESIS OF POTENTIALLY CYTOTOXIC Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.3 Ahamad Abuadas CHEMISTRY Asheville HETEROCYCLES DEVELOPMENT OF A PROTEIN-BASED SYSTEM FOR THE DETECTION OF Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.4 Clare Adams Appalachian State University BIOLOGY ORGANOPHOSPHATES USING THE PH-DEPENDENCE OF ENHANCED GREEN FLUORESCENT PROTEIN A LONG-TERM EXPERIMENT IN PLANT COMMUNITY ECOLOGY: THE FIRST Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.5 Joshua Bartel East Carolina University BIOLOGY FIVE YEARS University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.6 Phillip Behrns CHEMISTRY & BIOCHEMISTRY DISTRIBUTIONS OF MALDI "HOT SPOTS" IN DNA-MATRIX CO-CRYSTALS Greensboro A LONGITUDINAL COMPARISON OF BMI AND PERCENT BODY FAT CHANGE University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.7 Matthew Boulos EXERCISE & SPORT SCIENCE IN THE CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBERG POLICE DEPARTMENT OVER 12.5 Wilmington YEARS COMPARISON OF REGULATORY REGIONS OF MIDLINE NEURON AND Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.8 Katherine Bridges North Carolina State University BIOLOGY MIDLINE GLIAL GENES REQUIRED FOR CELL DEVELOPMENT IN THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM STUDY OF RAPID COMPUTATION OF GEOMAGNETIC CUTOFF RIGIDITIES University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.9 Steven Brown PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY AND IMPACT ON AIRCRAFT RADIATION EXPOSURE TO GALACTIC COSMIC Chapel Hill RAYS AND SOLAR ENERGETIC PARTICLE EVENTS ANALYSIS OF NATURAL PRODUCTS (CAROTENOIDS) IN BIRD FEATHERS Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.10 Nickolas Buchanan Appalachian State University BIOLOGY AND EGG YOLK University of North Carolina at FUN WITH ZERO-G: A NASA INSPIRED SPACE SCIENCES EDUCATION Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.11 Branyun Bullard ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Pembroke AWARENESS

Roan Mountain 120 IDENTIFYING FUNCTIONAL SITES COMMON TO THE GCN5-RELATED -N- Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.12 Domonique Bulls North Carolina A&T University BIOLOGY ACETYLTRANSFERASES (GNAT FAMILY) THROUGH COMPUTATIONAL METHODS DEVELOPMENT OF A SOLID PHASE EXTRACTION AND HPLC METHOD TO P1.13 MORNING (9:00 AM - 11:45 AM) AM - 11:45 MORNING (9:00 Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM Bethany Carter Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY QUANTIFY ESTROGENS IN WASTEWATER EFFLUENT SATELLITE ANALYSIS OF HABITAT TYPE AND AVAILABILITY REFLECTS Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.14 Dana Chapman Pfeiffer University ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE CARNIVORE DISTRIBUTION AND CONSERVATION THREAT IN MADAGASCAR LIGHT INDUCED C-FOS EXPRESSION IN THE SUPRACHIASMATIC NUCLEUS Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.15 Seth Congdon Guilford College BIOLOGY OF FORCED DESYNCHRONIZED RATS North Carolina School of Science Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.16 Taylor Courier MECHANICAL ENGINEERING MOBILE AUTONOMOUS ROBOTIC SENSING SYSTEM (MARSS) and Mathematics Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.17 Kayla Cummings Robeson Community College SCIENCE EDUCATION BRIDGING THE BIOTECHNOLOGY GAP IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS TOWARD FUEL CELL HYDROGEN FROM A BIORENEWABLE SOURCE: University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.18 Leigha Dickens PHYSICS ANALYSIS OF TRENDS IN THE CONVERSION OF ETHANOL TO HYDROGEN Asheville GAS OVER RHODIUM, PALLADIUM, AND NICKEL CATALYSTS ANALYSIS OF LIPOOLIGOSACCHARIDE IN THE FOOD-BORNE PATHOGEN Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.19 Shavonne Dixon North Carolina A&T University BIOLOGY CAMPYLOBACTER COLI University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.20 Katelyn Doran COMPUTER SCIENCE ELEMENTAL: THE RECURRENCE Charlotte

PLEASE SEE PRESENTATION "TYPE" FOR EACH CATEGORY

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 7 - Room Type Time # Presenter (Student first and last name) Student Institution Student Major Title

Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.21 Cesar Duque Robeson Community College ENGINEERING KJELDAHL METHOD OF PROTEIN ANALYSIS A POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVE: A STUDY OF A COMMUNITY GARDEN IN THE Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.22 Charles Edens North Carolina State University HORTICULTURAL SCIENCE CENTRAL PIEDMONT OF NORTH CAROLINA 137A NONINVASIVE WILDLIFE BIOLOGY: LARGE MAMMAL CENSUS OF Calloway Peak Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.23 Anjelea Fisher Pfeiffer University ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE HALTIWANGER RETREAT AND ENVIRONS IN UWHARRIE NATIONAL FOREST

Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.24 Jesse Fox North Carolina A&T University BIOLOGY PCR SOEING STREP-TAG INTO L17A IN SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE EVALUATION OF NUTRIENTS IN STREAMS ADJACENT TO PASTURELAND Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.25 Stephen Garner North Carolina State University ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE RECENTLY CONVERTED TO TIMBER PRODUCTION EXAMINING THE BEHAVIOR AND SOCIOLOGY OF THE BOTTLENOSE Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.26 Beth Hall North Carolina State University ZOOLOGY DOLPHIN (TURSIOPS TRUNCATUS) ACROSS ITS DISTRIBUTIONAL RANGE University of North Carolina at EXPLORING ADVERTISING IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY: Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.27 Megan Harris PSYCHOLOGY Pembroke BENEFITS AND RISKS North Carolina School of Science EXPERIMENTATIONS INTO VARIATIONS ON KNO3/SORBITOL ROCKET Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.28 Tamir Hasan AEROSPACE ENGINEERING and Mathematics MOTORS IMPROVED NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF COMMERCIAL FEATHER MEALS BY Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.29 Dana Hogg North Carolina State University POULTRY SCIENCE DIETARY SUPPLEMENT VERSAZYME MORNING (9:00 AM - 11:45 AM ) AM - 11:45 MORNING (9:00 EXPLORING MODERN MICROSCOPY AND IMAGING TECHNOLOGY AT THE Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.30 Robert Howington Appalachian State University BIOLOGY DEWEL MICROSCOPY FACILITY Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.31 Jacqueline Irwin Appalachian State University EXERCISE & SPORT SCIENCE ANTIOXIDANT ENZYME FUNCTION IN EXERCISED CARDIAC TISSUE

Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.32 Daniel Jackson Appalachian State University BIOLOGY APPALSEED

Roan Mountain 120 Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.33 Jasamine Jackson Winthrop University COMPUTER SCIENCE DANCE CHOREOGRAPHY TOOL USING MASS SPECTROMETRY TO UNDERSTAND THE PEPTIDE BINDING Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.34 Thiesen Jacob Lenoir-Rhyne College CHEMISTRY PROPERTIES OF MACACA FASCICULARIS MHC MOLECULE A*2502 PHYLOGENETIC ANALYSIS OF THE FUNGI CAUSING FAIRY RINGS ON GOLF MORNING (9:00 AM - 11:45 AM) AM - 11:45 MORNING (9:00 Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.35 Edwina Joe North Carolina State University BIOLOGY PUTTING GREENS USING BETA-TUBULIN SEQUENCES AGRICULTURAL & ENVIRONMENTAL GERMINATION TECHNIQUES OF HALOPHYTES WITH PHYTOREMEDIATION Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.36 Brian Johnson Southeast Raleigh High School TECHNOLOGY VALUE FOR REDUCING SOIL SALINITY NATURAL VARIATION IN PHEROMONE RESPONSE CORRELATES WITH Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.37 Sarah Jones North Carolina State University ZOOLOGY REPRODUCTIVE TRAITS AND GENE EXPRESSION IN HONEY BEES FUNCTIONAL EQUATION METHODS WITH APPLICATIONS TO Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.38 Donna Kamarei Appalachian State University MATHEMATICAL DECISION SCIENCES LINEARIZATION FOR DIFFERENCE EQUATIONS University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.39 Trace Kessler BIOCHEMISTRY STUDY ON MICRO RNA PROFILE IN MOUSE BRAIN TISSUES Greensboro DEVELOPING A COMPUTER GENETIC SCRIPT FOR SOLVING PROBLEMS IN Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.40 Nicolas Kiely Nash Community College MATHEMATICS ARBITRARY APPLICATIONS CREATING PHOTO-ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLS FOR HYDROGEN North Carolina School of Science Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.41 Wisun Kim MATERIALS ENGINEERING PRODUCTION USING TIO2 ANATASE NANOTUBES DEPOSITED ON FTO and Mathematics GLASS EXPRESSION OF GENES IN SOYBEAN CULTURES BY USING Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.42 Kevin Lambirth Pfeiffer University BIOLOGY AGROBACTERIUM AS A MEDIUM FOR PLASMID TRANSFORMATION University of North Carolina at JUROR DECISIONS: DOES EMPATHY, SOCIALIZATION AND COURT CASE Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.43 Sabrina Leshore PSYCHOLOGY Pembroke PLAY A ROLE University of North Carolina at SONICATION-DRIVEN TRANSESTERIFICATION FOR THE PRODUCTION OF Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.44 Sarah Locklear CHEMISTRY Pembroke BIODIESEL COMPARISON OF BIOLUMINESCENT PROPERTIES OF VIBRIO FISCHERI AND Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.45 Brittany Locklear Robeson Community College BIOCHEMISTRY E. COLI MM294 LUX+ BACTERIA Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.46 Nick Merrill Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY CELL FREE FUEL ETHANOL PRODUCTION

Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.47 Komi Messan North Carolina A&T University MATHEMATICS EXPLORING THE LOGISTIC DIFFERENTIAL EQUATION GENDER DIFFERENCES IN PERFORMANCE IN PRINCIPLES OF Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.48 Beth Migliaccio North Carolina State University BIOCHEMISTRY BIOCHEMISTRY BASED ON BLOOM'S TAXONOMY OF QUESTION DIFFICULTY AND STUDY HABITS University of North Carolina at STUDIES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ETHANOL FROM SWEET POTATO Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.49 Kimberly Moore CHEMISTRY Pembroke REMNANTS MICROHABITAT AND DIETARY PREFERENCES OF WHITE-BREASTED WOOD Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.50 Marvin Morales-Jacinto Guilford College BIOLOGY WREN (HENICORHINA LEUCOSTICTA) IN A RAINFOREST RESERVE IN COSTA RICA SAMPLING AND ANALYTICAL VARIABILITY ASSOCIATED WITH THE University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.51 Kimberly Moseley CHEMISTRY DETERMINATION OF THE TOTAL ANTHOCYANIN CONTENT IN BILBERRY Pembroke CAPSULES CREATION OF MOLECULAR TOOLS TO CHARACTERIZE THE REGULATORY Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.52 Anwar Nassor Nash Community College BIOCHEMISTRY REGIONS OF ZEBRAFISH MEMBRANE PROGESTIN RECEPTORS University of North Carolina at NASA'S CONSTELLATION PROGRAM: PREPARING FOR THE Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.53 Kelly Niccum PSYCHOLOGY Pembroke PSYCHOLOGICAL University of North Carolina at SORORITY BOYS AND SUMMER CATCH: EXPLORING COLLEGE STUDENT Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.54 Kelly Niccum PSYCHOLOGY Pembroke PORTRAYALS IN THE MEDIA USE OF SAGITTAL OTOLITHS TO DETERMINE AGE OF LONGNOSE GAR Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.55 Jillian Osborne East Carolina University BIOLOGY (LEPISOSTEUS OSSEUS) WITH ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE LIFE HISTORY Roan Mountain 120 University of North Carolina at DORA THE EXPLORER: EXPLORING THE POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE EFFECTS Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.56 Kyra Osinski PSYCHOLOGY Pembroke OF CHILDREN'S PROGRAMMING University of North Carolina at GENDER STEREOTYPES IN DISNEY MOVIES: ARE YOU A PRINCE OR A Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.57 Kyra Osinski PSYCHOLOGY Pembroke PRINCESS? MORNING (9:00 AM - 11:45 AM) AM - 11:45 MORNING (9:00 JOB SATISFACTION AMONG NORTH CAROLINA CORRECTIONAL University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.58 Lara Ostapiej CRIMINOLOGY PSYCHOLOGISTS: EXAMINATION OF GENERAL AND OCCUPATION-SPECIFIC Wilmington PREDICTORS ARE PUTATIVE H2A AND H2B HISTONE VARIANTS IN ARABIDOPSIS Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.59 Sung Park North Carolina State University BIOCHEMISTRY THALIANA STRUCTURAL PROTEINS OF TRANSCRIPTIONALLY ACTIVE CHROMATIN? Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.60 Jason Pearson Appalachian State University MATHEMATICS SYSTEMS OF MARRIAGE PROBLEMS

Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.61 Lindsey Rearigh Pfeiffer University BIOLOGY AGROBACTERIA TRANSFORMATION University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.62 Myra Reid PSYCHOLOGY COMPUTER GAME OR LECTURE: DOES FORMAT MATTER? Charlotte University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.63 Justin Ritchie ENGINEERING POLARIS TRACKING TELESCOPE Charlotte AN EXAMINATION OF THE IMPORTANCE OF ATMOSPHERICS ON CUSTOMER Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.64 Afton Rogers Queens University of Charlotte BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION ATTITUDES AND DECISION TO PURCHASE University of North Carolina at THE EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE AND FLORAL REFLECTANCE PLASTICITY Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.65 Deanna Schmidt BIOLOGY Greensboro ON THE MALE FUNCTION OF THE FLOWER IN PLANTAGO LANCEOLATA University of North Carolina at Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.66 Mark Schubel PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY GRB 080319B: MODELING THE "NAKED EYE" BURST Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at USING THE BIREFINGENCE OF HEMOZOIN TO MOTIVATE A HIGH- Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.67 Sheel Shah PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Chapel Hill THROUGHPUT DIAGNOSTIC DEVICE University of North Carolina at MOSSBAUER STUDY OF RARE EARTH ELEMENT SUBSTITUTIONS IN Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.68 Jeremy Sigman PHYSICS Asheville GARNETS University of North Carolina at CHARACTERIZING THE EXCITABILITY AND CONTRACTILITY OF THREE Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.69 Dwight Springthorpe PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Chapel Hill DIMENSIONAL MUSCLE CONSTRUCTS GROWTH IN VITRO A BEHAVIORIAL STUDY ON THE EFFECTS OF WHALE-WATCHING BOATS ON Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.70 Norah Stevens-Kittner Guilford College BIOLOGY GREY WHALES (ESCHRICHTIUS ROBUSTUS) IN BAHIA MAGDALENA, MEXICO GENETIC CHARACTERIZATION OF POL GAMMA DISEASE MUTATIONS Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.71 Matthew Stillwagon North Carolina State University BIOCHEMISTRY REVEAL DECREASED MTDNA FIDELITY AND ACTIVITY SEARCHING FOR UNUSUAL C-C BONDS BY MODELING THE GRAPHITE TO Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.72 Ryan Vary Guilford College CHEMISTRY DIAMOND SP2-SP3 TRANSITION MECHANISTICALLY WITH AB INITIO CALCULATIONS AND PLOTS BASED ON THE CSD University of North Carolina at ANALYSIS AND VISUALIZATION OF DATA FROM THE DEDICATED Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.73 Kristopher Vorren PHYSICS Asheville INTERFEROMETER FOR RAPID VARIABILITY BILTMORE ESTATE'S COMPETITIVE STRATEGY USING VANDERBILT'S

Roan Mountain 120 Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.74 Jessica Walker Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION VISION INVESTING CRITICAL FORCES DRIVING CHANGES IN THE US LODGING Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.75 Mary White Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION INDUSTRY MAPPING "AUTHENTICITY" IN A HISTORIC MARKETPLACE: THE CASE OF MORNING (9:00 AM - 11:45 AM) AM - 11:45 MORNING (9:00 Poster 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM P1.76 Alexandra Wiedemann Western Carolina University GRAPHIC DESIGN FLORENCE'S CENTRAL MARKET MULTI-ELEMENTAL TRACE ANALYSIS OF SHEN NU GUO DRIED TOMATOES Exhibit 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM E1.1 Shantakiya Cohen Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY BY INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA OPTICAL EMISSION SPECTROMETRY Exhibit 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM E1.2 Kathleen Kennedy Guilford College ART EXPLORING IMPRESSIONISM MOLECULAR MODELING, SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NOVEL Exhibit 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM E1.3 Andrew Peacock North Carolina State University TEXTILE CHEMISTRY SYMMETRICAL BIDENTATE PHOTOSENSITIZERS FOR SOLAR CELLS

Please see "Lunchbox Sessions" page. Enjoy your lunch in the Blue Lunch 11:45 AM - 12:55 PM Ridge Ballroom or in any seating area in the Plemmons Student Union. Plemmons Student Union

Please feel free to take a break and get a snack or drink throughout Break As needed during the day the day in the Blue Ridge Ballroom. Find a seat anywhere in the Ballroom or in the Plemmons Student Union at your convenience. Plemmons Student Union

- 8 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Room Type Time # Presenter (Student first and last name) Student Institution Student Major Title

University of North Carolina at BILD-ING A GROUP IDENTITY: VISUALLY CONSTRUCTING GENDER AND Oral 1:00 PM 34 AdriAnne Cole GERMAN Greensboro NATIONAL PRIDE IN THE CONTEXT OF GERMAN SOCCER

137A Oral 1:15 PM 35 Bellanov Apilli North Carolina State University COMPUTER SCIENCE COMBINATORIAL TESTING OF ACCESS CONTROL POLICIES REACTIONS TO RACE: AN ANALYSIS OF THE DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONSES Calloway Peak Oral 1:30 PM 36 Jennifer Byrd North Carolina State University BIOLOGY TO THE REACTIONS TO RACE MODULE BY SOCIALLY ASSIGNED RACE, DELAWARE, 2002-2005 University of North Carolina at EUTROPHICATION AND LEAF LITTER DIVERSITY EFFECT THE ECOLOGICAL Oral 1:45 PM 37 Hilary Wilson BIOLOGY Asheville STOICHIOMETRY OF MANGROVE DETRITIVORE, MELAMPUS COFFEUS FLOW CYTOMETRIC V-BETA REPERTOIRE ANALYSIS OF HIV-SPECIFIC Oral 2:00 PM 38 Parteek Singla East Carolina University BIOLOGY CD8+T CELLS IN HIV+LONG-TERM NONPROGRESSORS AND PATIENTS WITH PROGRESSIVE INFECTION University of North Carolina at WHEN DOES STEALING COST TOO MUCH? A MODEL OF KLEPTOPARASITIC Oral 2:15 PM 39 Meghan Fitzgerald BIOLOGY Greensboro BEHAVIOR University of North Carolina at THE CLIMATE CRISIS AND CHANGE LEADERSHIP: INSIGHTS INTO Oral 2:30 PM 40 Zahrah Taylor BUSINESS MANAGEMENT Asheville PERSUADING THE SKEPTICS Calloway Peak 137A SOCIETAL TATTLE TALES: THE BUSINESS OF PUBLIC TIPS AND LAW Oral 2:45 PM 41 Cassie Erwin Western Carolina University BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION ENFORCEMENT MORNING (9:00 AM - 11:45 AM ) AM - 11:45 MORNING (9:00 North Carolina School of Science SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF SELF-ASSEMBLED MONOLAYER 42 AFTERNOON (1:00 - 4:00 PM) Oral 3:00 PM Darren Zhu CHEMISTRY and Mathematics FORMATION OF ISOCYANIDES ON FERROMAGNETIC THIN FILMS REGULATION OF TGF-BETA SIGNALING GENES BY THE BHD TUMOR Oral 3:15 PM 43 Andy Tran North Carolina State University CHEMISTRY SUPPRESSOR GENE DETERMINATION OF PARTIAL SPECIFIC VOLUME OF NOVEL GEMINI Oral 3:30 PM 44 Edward Hooper Fayetteville State Univsersity CHEMISTRY SURFACTANTS University of North Carolina at Oral 3:45 PM 45 Ashley Clark CHEMISTRY INVESTIGATION OF EWS-FLI1ONCOGENE COMPLEX IN EWING'S SARCOMA Pembroke Oral 1:00 PM 46 Brittany Crocker Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION EXPLORING THE IMPORTANCE OF DIVERSITY IN THE LODGING INDUSTRY DIVERSITY. IS IT IMPORTANT IN THE HOTEL INDUSTRY? THE CASE OF Oral 1:15 PM 47 Jessica Hilton Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION HILTON MAGIC OF BRANDING; Oral 1:30 PM 48 Brian Robinson Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION A DISNEY TALE CHILDHOOD OBESITIES AFFECTS ON THE FAST FOOD Oral 1:45 PM 49 Alana Wilson Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION INDUSTRY COMPETITIVE STRATEGY OF YUM! Oral 2:00 PM 50 Jamie Xiao Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION BRAND CHINA ANALYSIS OF PERSUASION TECHNIQUES IN THE GEICO INSURANCE Oral 2:15 PM 51 Margaret Allen Appalachian State University COMMUNICATIONS CAMPAIGNS EROTIC ELICITATION: A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATION OF INTIMATE Oral 2:30 PM 52 Evelyn Siergiej Mars Hill College CONSUMER, APPAREL & RETAIL STUDIES APPAREL

MacRae Peak 137B Oral 2:45 PM 53 Wesley Springs Nash Community College MATHEMATICS AN ANALYSIS OF MULTI-DIMENSIONAL HYPERSPHERES Oral 3:00 PM 54 Danielle Peacock North Carolina State University POLITICAL SCIENCE MICROCREDIT IN URBAN FOOD SOCIETY DEVELOPING Oral 3:15 PM 55 Victoria Mallett Guilford College POLITICAL SCIENCE PERCEPTIONS GAINING A THOUSAND WORDS: CONNECTING VISUALIZATION, Oral 3:30 PM 56 Gerald Gordner Jack Britt High School INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COMPREHENSION AND MEMORY AN INVESTIGATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL ETHICS AMONG Oral 3:45 PM 57 William Swing Appalachian State University RECREATION & PARKS MANAGEMENT BOULDERERS EFFECT OF UNPLEASANT AND PLEASANT EMOTIONAL PICTURES ON Oral 1:00 PM 58 Justin Handy High Point University PSYCHOLOGY RECALL OF PERIPHERAL INFORMATION University of North Carolina at DETERMINATION OF THE NATURE AND TIMING OF L-R PATTERNING Oral 1:15 PM 59 Matthew Howard PSYCHOLOGY Chapel Hill PROCESSES DURING ZEBRAFISH ORGANOGENESIS EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND SUCCESS IN COLLEGE: THE FRESHMAN Oral 1:30 PM 60 Tracey Wright Peace College PSYCHOLOGY EXPERIENCE AFTERNOON (1:00 - 4:00 PM) EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF GENDER AND GENDER ROLE CONFLICT ON Oral 1:45 PM 61 G. Byron Zelenak Guilford College PSYCHOLOGY PREFERENCES FOR HELP-SEEKING THE ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN BALANCED AND VARIED FOODS, Oral 2:00 PM 62 Lyudmila Trost Appalachian State University PSYCHOLOGY INVOLVEMENT, AND HEALTHY WEIGHT FOR CHILDREN IN THE US A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PAST TRAUMA AND TRAUMATIC EFFECTS Oral 2:15 PM 63 Holly Gunn Chowan University PSYCHOLOGY AMONG CHOWAN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS University of North Carolina at DECEPTION AND DISSONANCE: THE SOCIAL-COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS OF Oral 2:30 PM 64 Katherine Englund PSYCHOLOGY

Attic Window 137C Window Attic Asheville HUMOR AND IMAGINARY PLAYMATES IN EARLY CHILDHOOD Oral 2:45 PM 65 Alicia Andrzejewski Mars Hill College PSYCHOLOGY THE EPISTEMOLOGIES OF WOMEN WITH EATING DISORDERS DARE TO KEEP PUNISHMENT JUST: EXAMINING ALTERNATIVES TO Oral 3:00 PM 66 Lauren Benoist Appalachian State University PSYCHOLOGY CORRECTIONS FOR DRUG ADDICTED OFFENDERS University of North Carolina at A CASE STUDY ANALYSIS OF CULTURAL ISSUES IN A PRE-LICENSURE Oral 3:15 PM 67 Elizabeth Nemitz NURSING Greensboro BACCALAUREATE NURSING PROGRAM MUSICIANS, MUSIC AND SOCIETY IN EUROPE IN THE EIGHTEENTH AND Oral 3:30 PM 68 Amanda Smith Appalachian State University MUSIC EDUCATION INTO THE NINETEENTH CENTURY Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.1 Matthew Barker Appalachian State University PSYCHOLOGY ANALYSIS OF COLLEGE STUDENT DRINKING DISCUSSIONS MARKET RESEARCH PROJECT FOR DUNBROOKS PUBLISHING'S: DEATH Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.2 Jason Bartlett Queens University of Charlotte BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND THE MAIDEN FABRICATION AND APPLICATIONS OF FUNCTIONALIZED POLYMERS FOR Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.3 Anne Beaubrun Duke University PUBLIC POLICY SITE-ISOLATION OF PALLADIUM CATALYSTS HIGH FREQUENCY OF HYPERMUTABLE PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA IN Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.4 Binny Bhandary Salem College BIOLOGY CYSTIC FIBROSIS LUNGS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.5 Stefanie Boenig Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY SYNTHESIS OF BIODIESEL FROM ALGAE Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.6 Jenna Bone East Carolina University BIOCHEMISTRY EFFECT OF EPDT ON MCF7 BREAST CANCER CELLS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.7 Benjamin Brockhoff Duke University MECHANICAL ENGINEERING ONBOARD PROCESSING APPLICATIONS FOR ROBOTS AND ROVERS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.8 Stephanie Bruns North Carolina State University STATISTICS WILL GLOBAL WARMING RESULT IN MORE WILDFIRES? THE EFFECT OF GRAVITATIONAL CHANGE ON BIOFILM FORMATION OF Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.9 Stephen Bryant North Carolina A&T University BIOLOGY NON-TYPEABLE HAEMOPHILUS INFLUENZA 86-028 NP University of North Carolina at ASTROBIOLOGICAL STUDIES IN THE CANADIAN HIGH ARCTIC AND IN Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.10 Zena Cardman BIOLOGY Chapel Hill PAVILION LAKE, BRITISH COLUMBIA University of North Carolina at INFORMATION SYSTEMS & OPERATIONS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.11 Jenny Celin FASCINATING LIFE OF A DUNG BEETLE Greensboro MANAGEMENT Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.12 Caroline Cochrane Appalachian State University BIOLOGY REGULATION OF THE MEIS2 HOMEOBOX GENE Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.13 Nathanael Cox Appalachian State University PHYSICS THEORY, DESIGN, AND APPLICATION OF A RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY SYSTEM A SURVEY OF BRIDGE STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL CONDITIONS IN Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.14 Naomi Eckerd Appalachian State University PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY WATAUGA COUNTY, NC A STUDY ANALYZING MOTIVATIONS AND SATISFACTIONS OF STUDENT Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.15 Daniel Ellis North Carolina State University RECREATION & PARKS MANAGEMENT VOLUNTEERS IN RECREATIONAL EVENTS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.16 Nathan Faulks Appalachian State University PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY ATMOSPHERIC AEROSOL MEASUREMENTS USING CAVITY RING-DOWN University of North Carolina at CMOTION: USING EMOTION RECOGNITION TO TEACH CHILDREN WITH Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.17 Samantha Finkelstein COMPUTER SCIENCE Roan Mountain 120 Charlotte AUTISM PROGRAMMING SYNTAX LOOKING FOR A CORRELLATION BETWEEN EXOPLANET ORBITAL PHASE Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.18 Christopher Flora Appalachian State University PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY AND CHROMOSPHERIC ACTIVITY IN HD149026

AFTERNOON (1:00 - 4:00 PM) University of North Carolina at Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.19 Donna Gilchrist CHEMISTRY GENOTYPING TRANSGENIC MICE Pembroke SYNTHESIS OF AN ELASTOMER BY USE OF RUTHENIUM-COORDINATED Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.20 Benjamin Gray Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY MACROLIGANDS University of North Carolina at BURIED SOILS AS STRATIGRAPHIC MARKER HORIZONS ON THE CAPE FEAR Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.21 Carla Gray GEOGRAPHY Wilmington RIVER FLOODPLAIN, BLADEN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA THE ROLE OF A PLECKSTRIN HOMOLOGY GENE IN THE RESPONSE OF Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.22 Catherine Hammond North Carolina State University BOTANY PLANT ROOTS TO GRAVITY STIMULATION University of North Carolina at USING A GAME TO TEACH CHILDREN WITH AUTISM FACIAL RECOGNITION Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.23 Lane Harrison COMPUTER SCIENCE Charlotte SKILLS AND COMPUTER PROGRAMMING SYNTAX INVESTIGATION OF POSSIBLE POLLUTANTS LEADING TO THE Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.24 Stephanie Hughes Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY DEGRADATION OF THE PIGEON RIVER WATERSHED Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.25 Matthew Hylland Appalachian State University PHYSICS ANALYSIS ON NICKEL PLATING AND STRIPPING USING SEM AND XPS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.26 Kristyn Jackson Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY TOLANES AS PRECURSORS FOR CONTROLLED RELEASE FRAGRANCES Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.27 Brad Johnson Appalachian State University PHYSICS DUST MITIGATION THE BPSR REGULATORY PROTEIN REPRESSES THE PRODUCTION OF THE Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.28 Anju Karki Salem College BIOLOGY BPS POLYSACCHARIDE AND BIOFILM FORMATION IN BORDETELLA Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.29 Joshua Kelley Appalachian State University PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY AN ECLIPSING BINARY STAR IN A CIRCUMBINARY GAS SHELL North Carolina School of Science ASSOCIATION OF A 15Q25 SINGLE NUCLEOTIDE POLYMORPHISM WITH Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.30 Asif Khan BIOLOGY and Mathematics SMOKING IN AFRICAN-AMERICANS

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 9 - Room Type Time # Presenter (Student first and last name) Student Institution Student Major Title

Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.31 Colby Kinder Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION BENIHANA AND THE WORLD AROUND IT University of North Carolina at Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.32 Lieselotte Kreuk BIOLOGY A CO-CULTURE SYSTEM FOR INTESTINAL STEM CELLS Chapel Hill 137A CREATION OF A DSRA CLASS II MUTANT IN HAEMOPHILUS DUCREYI Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.33 Shannon Landvater North Carolina A&T University BIOLOGY Calloway Peak STRAINS HMC112 AND DMC111 University of North Carolina at Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.34 Aaron Locklear CHEMISTRY & BIOCHEMISTRY BIODIESEL PRODUCTION FROM FATTY ACIDS USING SOLID ACID CATALYST Pembroke University of North Carolina at LINEAR EFFECTS OF VARYING MAGNETIC CIRCUIT DESIGN PARAMETERS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.35 Raheel Mahmood PHYSICS Chapel Hill OF THE ALTERNATING POLARITY HOMOPOLAR STEPPER MOTOR University of North Carolina at THE BEHAVIORAL ACTIVATION SYSTEM AND SEXUAL AGGRESSION IN A Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.36 Emily Marcinowski PSYCHOLOGY Greensboro SAMPLE OF MALE UNDERGRADUATES EXTRACTION AND IDENTIFICATION OF ESSENTIAL OILS AND SUGARS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.37 Andrew Martin North Carolina State University PAPER SCIENCE & ENGINEERING FROM NORTH CAROLINA POCOSIN BIOMASS A PROVENANCE STUDY OF COARSE-GRAINED SEDIMENTS FROM THE Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.38 Kate McGinnis Appalachian State University GEOLOGY GRAY FOSSIL SITE SINKHOLE, NORTHEASTERN TN EFFECT OF QUEEN MANDIBULAR PHEROMONE (QMP) AND CYCLIC Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.39 Alexander McKenzie North Carolina State University BIOLOGY GUANOSINE MONOPHOSPHATE (CGMP) ON VITELLOGENIN GENE EXPRESSION IN HONEY BEES (APIS MELLIFERA) MORNING (9:00 AM - 11:45 AM ) AM - 11:45 MORNING (9:00 Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.40 Robert Oakes Lenoir-Rhyne College PHYSICS IMAGING THE INTERNAL DYNAMICS OF SUPERSONIC ROCKET NOZZLES Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.41 Adrian Perez Appalachian State University PHYSICS EVALUATING THE THERMAL SINK CAPACITIES OF PERVIOUS PAVEMENT

Roan Mountain 120 STABLE NITROGEN ISOTOPE ANALYSES (15N) OF TREE STEM CORES IN Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.42 Steven Pires North Carolina State University ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE RESPONSE TO CONTAMINATED GROUDWATER DESIGN AND TESTING OF A NEW PULSED ELECTRON-BEAM DELIVERY Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.43 Nick Pope Appalachian State University PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY

AFTERNOON (1:00 - 4:00 PM) SYSTEM CRUSTAL MATTER: EXPLORING THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AMBIENT AIR Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.44 William Rice North Carolina State University STATISTICS SAMPLES AND EMISSIONS INVENTORY FORCES DRIVING CHANGE IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY REGARDING Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.45 Preston Rolfes Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION MARRIOTT CHEMICAL MONITORING OF BOONE CREEK: AN URBANIZED HEADWATERS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.46 Derek Routhier Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY STREAM University of North Carolina at Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.47 Renee Royal PHYSICS INTENSITY TIME EVOLUTION OF GAMMA RAY BURSTS Asheville Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.48 Alexandria Rutkovsky Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY POLYAMINE SYNTHESIS AND TRANSPORT SYSTEMS IN VIBRIO CHOLERAE University of North Carolina at A TWIST ON DIVERSITY: THE INFLUENCE OF AGE, GENDER AND CULTURE Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.49 Cheston Saunders BIOLOGY Wilmington ON PEER INSTRUCTION Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.50 Charlotte Schlesinger Appalachian State University PHYSICS SOIL SURFACE ROUGHNESS A COMPARISON STUDY BETWEEN TWO READING INTERVENTION Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.51 Marlana Sheridan North Carolina State University BIOLOGY PROGRAMS: GREAT LEAPS K-2 VS. HELPING EARLY LITERACY WITH PRACTICE STRATEGIES (HELPS) Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.52 Armah Shiancoe Queens University of Charlotte BUSINESS & MARKETING EDUCATION ORGANIC T-SHIRTS "CHARACTERIZATION OF PLASMA-ASSISTED GROWTH OF AMORPHOUS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.53 Adam Steiner North Carolina State University NUCLEAR ENGINEERING AND MICRO-CRYSTALLINE SILICON FOR THE EFFICIENT FABRICATION OF HIGH-EFFICIENCY, MULTI-LAYER SOLAR PANELS" INDIRECT DETERMINATION OF ENZYME KINETICS USING CAPILLARY Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.54 Ryan Sturdivant Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY ELECTROPHORESIS WITH CHEMILUMINESCENCE DETECTION ABSORBENT BOUNDARY CONDITIONS FOR WAVE PROPAGATION Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.55 Sarah Suda North Carolina State University PHYSICS SIMULATIONS USING FINITE DIFFERENCE METHODS North Carolina School of Science Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.56 Patrick Tenorio MATHEMATICS SIMPLE QUADRATIC FIELDS and Mathematics DEVELOPING A TANDEM KNOEVENAGEL CONDENSATION-INVERSE University of North Carolina at Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.57 Leslie Thompson BIOLOGY ELECTRON DEMAND HETERO DIELS-ALDER REACTION FOR THE Pembroke ADVANCED ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LABORATORY VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR (VEGF) MRNA LEVELS IN THE Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.58 Morgan Thompson Appalachian State University BIOLOGY CERVIX ARE UP REGULATED BY LIPOPOLYSSACHARIDE (LPS) IN PREGNANT MICE

Roan Mountain 120 Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.59 Nicholas Walter Appalachian State University BIOLOGY POLYAMINES EFFECT ON BIOFILM FORMATION Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.60 Caitlin Webb Appalachian State University COMMUNICATION SCIENCES & DISORDERS OROFACIAL STRENGTH OF YOUNG AND OLD HEALTHY ADULTS VALIDATED APPLICATION OF NEW RP-HPLC FOR DETERMINATION OF P2.61 AFTERNOON (1:00 - 4:00 PM) Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM Joshua Wheeler Appalachian State University EXERCISE & SPORT SCIENCE SELECT POLYPHENOLS ((+) -CATECHIN, QUERCETIN, AND TRANS- RESVERATROL) IN BLOOD SERUM, PLASMA AND URINE Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.62 Rhea Williams Salem College CHEMISTRY AMERICAN GINSENG: THE QUEST FOR GINSENOSIDES MICROWAVE SYNTHESIS OF BIODIESEL: YIELD AND LUBRICITY OF FATTY Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.63 Isaac Wilson Appalachian State University CHEMISTRY ACID METHYL/ETHYL ESTERS BLENDS Poster 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM P2.64 Kristen Wolf Western Carolina University TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION CRUISE INDUSTRY: MOLDING TO BECOME EVEN BETTER Exhibit 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM E2.1 Shaun Burns Guilford College EDUCATION MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS NEED A BREAK Exhibit 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM E2.2 Hannah Hawkins Guilford College ART COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY CONCEPT AND TECHNIQUE RESEARCH FOR PROFESSIONAL ART Exhibit 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM E2.3 Elizabeth Kohler Appalachian State University ART EXHIBITION Exhibit 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM E2.4 Lucinda Rowe Guilford College ART THINGS I ALMOST REMEMBER: DRAWING OF BIRDS

- 10 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Creative Performances – SNCURCS 2008

4 th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate

Research and Creativity Symposium

Summit Trail Solarium Room 118

• 9:30 am – Nathan Brown, Appalachian State University, Music Major “Deception” #CP1.1 • 10:00 am –Eva Mowry, Appalachian State University, Music Major “Resurrection After Death, a String Quartet” #CP1.2 • 10:30 am –Joseph DuBose, Appalachian State University, Music Major “Thematic Transformations in Fugue” #CP1.3 • 11:00 am-Aaron Fann, Appalachian State University, Music Major “20 th Century Compositional Techniques” #CP1.4 • 1:30 pm –David Hunt, Appalachian State University, Music Major “Kontakion, for Saxophone Sextet” #CP1.5 • 2:00 pm –Nikki Caruso, Appalachian State University, Dance Major “Communication in the Choreographic Process” #CP1.6

Watauga River Room 102

• 9:00 am –Andrew O’Keefe, Appalachian State University, Music Major “Appalachian Speech and its Presentation in Today’s Media” #CP2.1 • 10:30 am -Matt Williams, Appalachian State University, Psychology Major “Steep Slope Development: A Focus on Boone, NC” #CP2.2 • 11:00 am –William Watson, Appalachian State University, Music Major “The Inebriated Nobleman” #CP2.3 • 1:00 pm –Ashley Galleher, Appalachian State University, Tourism & Commercial Recreation Major “All-Terrain Vehicle Usage in the Southern Mountains” #CP2.4 • 1:30 pm –Vansana Nolintha, North Carolina State University, Art Major “Understanding Peace and Conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina. A Photo Documentary of NC State Students” #CP2.5 • 2:00 pm –Jeremy Bryant, Appalachian State University, Psychology Major “Appalachian Speech and its Presentation in Today’s Media” #CP2.6

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 11 - Lunchbox Sessions SNCURCS 2008LUNCHBOX SESSIONS SNCURCS 2008

Head through the line to get your plate lunch and join one of the discussions below. Or get your lunch and talk with new friends in any open room, hallway or outside (weather permitting). We will have seating available in the Blue Ridge Ballroom throughout the entire day to sit, eat, and take a break. Don=t forget that presentations resume promptly at 1 pm.

State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium 2008

TOPIC DISCUSSANT LEADER ROOM

ACoordinators of Dr. Courtney Thornton Calloway Peak Undergraduate Research: UNC General Administration Room #137 A Statewide Initiatives?@ Plemmons Student Union

AThe Mentoring Model of the Dr. Rahman Tashakkori MacRae Peak CSEMS/SSTEM Programs at Appalachian State University Room #137 B ASU@ Plemmons Student Union

ABuilding Breadth and Depth in Attic Window Student Research: Community Dr. Norman Clark Room #137 C Based Research and the Blue Appalachian State University Plemmons Student Union Ridge Parkway@

- 12 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Student Author(s): Tamir Hasan Jay Phillips Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Major: AEROSPACE ENGINEERING Mentor(s): Jonathan Bennett Title of Presentation: Experimentations into Variations on KNO3/Sorbitol Rocket Motors We built and tested rocket engines, varying the ratios of two main parts of the propellant ‐ the fuel and the oxidizer. The oxidizer used was potassium nitrate, and the fuel was sorbitol. We aimed to determine how changing the ratio of the potassium nitrate to sorbitol in rocket propellant affects thrust, case stress, temperature, and chamber pressure. The data was collected via probes attached to the rocket engine during static tests. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.28 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Whitney Lohmeyer Classification: Sophomore College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: AEROSPACE ENGINEERING Mentor(s): Fred DeJarnette Title of Presentation: New Method for Calculating Skin Friction at Transition from Laminar to Turbulent Boundary Layers Hot spots occur when the skin friction at the transition from laminar to turbulent boundary layers is calculated to be higher than the traditional method of calculating skin friction of the turbulent boundary layer at transition. In the early 1900’s Prandtl introduced the traditional method by assuming the virtual origin of the turbulent boundary layer existed at the leading edge. Several authors introduced a later method to calculate hot spots by assuming the boundary layer thickness to be continuous at the transition point. This method obtains a virtual origin between the leading edge and the transition point that in turn, causes hot spots due to calculated heating rates higher than those of the traditional method. By integrating the integral form of the momentum equation, a new method is formed, and proves that the momentum thickness of the laminar boundary layer should be equal to the momentum thickness of the turbulent boundary at the transition point, disproving the previous methods. The new method determines a new virtual origin for the turbulent boundary layer . The results found from setting the boundary layer thickness continuous at the transition point show higher heating rates than both the new method and the traditional (Prandtl’s) method. The new method, assuming momentum thickness to be continuous at the transition point, has heating rates less than the previous method, but higher than the traditional. Therefore the use of less thermal protection is required compared to the old method, eliminating a large amount of unwanted cost and weight improving the overall performance of the spacecraft. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #13 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 10:00 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 13 -

Student Author(s): Michael Pearce John Fuller Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: AEROSPACE ENGINEERING Mentor(s): Fred Dejarnette Robert Tolson Title of Presentation: Program for the Estimation of Spacecraft Aerodynamic Properties A numerical procedure for calculating free‐molecular aerodynamic properties of spacecraft is revisited and improved using a modern computer program, Matlab 2007. This program allows the user to model a spacecraft from geometric shapes which are divided into elemental panels of approximate equal area to conserve resolution. The forces on exposed elements are summed across the entire geometry. A graphical user interface to speed data creation was constructed. A method to derive the aerodynamic effects from vehicle rotation was incorporated into the program. The methods for determining exposed panels have been improved with the utilization of array algebra to improve processing time. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #14 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 10:15 AM

AGRICULTURAL & ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY

Student Author(s): Brian Johnson Classification: H.S. Senior College or University: Southeast Raleigh High School Major: AGRICULTURAL & ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY Mentor(s): Elizabeth Nichols Title of Presentation: Germination Techniques of Halophytes with Phytoremediation Value for Reducing Soil Salinity One of the most widespread and detrimental limiting land use factors is soil salinity. Salinity can severely reduce crop productivity and cost the global economy trillions of dollars annually. Currently there are no methods that provide sufficient relief from salanization in an economical and practical way. The main objective of this experiment was to develop germination techniques for halophytes that have possible phytoremediation value to use in reducing soil salinity. A growth trial was conducted using Sorghastrum nutans, Distichlis spicata, and Agropyron trachycaulum. Replicates of the same plants were exposed to different salinity levels for approximately one month. Plant growth data was collected multiple times on a weekly basis to track the germination and then growth of these plants. I observed that increased salinity concentrations increased the time required for seed germination and then decreased seedling vigor as measured by seedling growth. Agropyron trachycaulum currently appears to be the best candidate for the phytoremediation of saline lands due to its high germination percentage throughout the tested salinity ranges. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.36 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 14 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium ANTHROPOLOGY

Student Author(s): Tiffany Pan Phillip Schutt Classification: Senior College or University: Duke University Major: ANTHROPOLOGY Mentor(s): Luke Dollar Title of Presentation: Speed Barriers are a Successful Conservation Measure in Mitigating the Impact of Roadkill on Wildlife in Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar Ankarafantsika National Park is the largest dry forest protected area in Madagascar. Despite its large size, it faces several challenges to conservation and preservation of its endemic biodiversity. The 17 kilometers of national highway that bisect Ankarafantsika may benefit the Park by providing easy access and transport of visitors to and from the area, but the threat of wildlife lost to roadkill is real. We provide an analysis and quantification of roadkill in Ankarafantsika two years prior and two years following the placement of speed barriers, in the form of large speed bumps. Following the placement of speed bumps in Ankarafantsika, rates of loss in the vicinity of the barriers dropped to an average approximately one‐fifth of prior rates of loss. Speed control devices provide an unquestionable reduction in wildlife lost to roadways transecting Ankarafantsika National Park. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #23 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 10:45 AM

ART

Student Author(s): Kathleen Kennedy Classification: Junior College or University: Guilford College Major: ART Mentor(s): David Newton Adele Wayman Title of Presentation: Exploring Impressionism The Impressionists and Post‐Impressionists had a unique handling of brushwork and paint application, combined with a color composition that brought new depths and value to objects, people and places. I am exploring the methods of paint application, color theory and composition of the Impressionists and post‐Impressionists, through still lifes that I create in my studio. Type of Presentation: Exhibit #E1.2 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 15 - Student Author(s): Elizabeth Kohler Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: ART Mentor(s): Lynn Duryea Title of Presentation: Concept and Technique Research for Professional Art Exhibition My creative research involves two essential aspects of art‐making: concept, and technique. A course at Appalachian in Ceramic Materials and Processes, sparked my interest in glaze formulation and gave me the knowledge to begin testing glazes for my own work. This has been the main focus of my technical experimentation ever since. Over the past six months I have tested a wide range of ceramic glazes, clays, and processes in order to enhance my work. I have simultaneously researched and developed the conceptual basis of my work: the idea that all humans have an inherent connection to nature, studying subjects such as ecopsychology, the Biophilia hypothesis, and the healing power of nature. I believe that all humans have an emotional bond with nature, and I want my work to spark this feeling in each viewer. My solo exhibition, a requirement of all Bachelors of Fine Arts majors, Memories of Patterns and Expanses, will be held at the Looking Glass Gallery in Plemmons Student Union in Boone, North Carolina in December 2008. This research project would not have been possible without the generous funding from the Office of Student Research grant program, and the Appalachian State Department of Art scholarship program. Type of Presentation: Exhibit #E2.3 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Vansana Nolintha Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: ART Mentor(s): Janice Odom Title of Presentation: Understanding Peace and Conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina. A Photo Documentary of NC State Students. This summer, I organized a trip of fifteen NC State students to Bosnia and Herzegovina to explore issues facing a post‐ conflict society. It was here that we began to realize the complex, yet hopeful, realities of a post war torn society. Walking through the narrow streets of Sarajevo we could observe the tangible imprints of the war. Prior to the trip, we were convinced that the war was an ethnic conflict that ended with the Dayton Accords in 1995. After weeks in Bosnia, we realized that their struggle for peace and stability is far from complete. Shattered windows and bullet holes on buildings are stark reminders of the war. Beyond the visible reminders, Bosnians are still suffering from the country's weak infrastructure. Children of different ethnicities attend the same school building but in different time shifts; learning different versions of the same history. Political leadership is divided more than ever before and the economy is worse than during the war. This photo documentary is to capture our students' relationships with the people and place of Bosnia while they are trying to get a glimpse of what it means to live in Bosnia and Herzegovina today. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP2.5 Room: Watauga River 102 Time: 1:30 PM

- 16 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Hannah R Hawkins Classification: Sophomore College or University: Guilford College Major: ART Mentor(s): David Newton

Title of Presentation: Community Engagement through Photography A special project sponsored by the Center for Principled Problem Solving at Guilfoed and led by Guilford students in collaboration with 5th to 9th graders at Glenhaven Community Center. Members of the Photography Club at Guilford joined with Glenhaven Community students twice a week in afternoons for 6 weeks to engage in a collaborative photography camp. Glenhaven students were encouraged to find a language of self expression using digital cameras as a tool. Concepts explored were focus, storytelling, perspective, and context, as related to photography. Emphasis was placed on serving and friendship as Guilford students assisted Glenhaven participants in learning and exploring both the technical process and personal process of photography. In addition to teaching a useful art, Guilford students engaged in a social dialogue of mutual respect and learning with the Glenhaven participants, the Guilford students learning just as much, if not more from the Glenhaven participants, primarily immigrants, about cultures other than our own existing in Greensboro and North Carolina. Through a collaborative effort with the cooking club and educational tutor program on campus, an International Cultural Sharing Day was sponsored through CPPS wherein Glenhaven students took Guilford Students to various markets in Greensboro and showed each other how to cook native cuisine from Mexico, Vietnam, and Africa, then shared various song, dance, stories and activities native to each student's homeland. Guilford and Glenhaven students documented this celebration of Cultures with the skills learned in Photo Camp, and a Photography Exhibit is planned for the spring to bring awareness to the community about Glenhaven Community Center and it's various indispensable programs. Another Photo Camp is planned for the spring semester as Guilford and the Center for Principled Problem Solving continue this special dialogue with Glenhaven Community Center. Type of Presentation: Exhibit #E2.2 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Lucinda Rowe Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: ART Mentor(s): David Newton Title of Presentation: Things I Almost Remember: Drawings of Birds Since my childhood, I have always loved children’s books and the illustrations in them. The narrative quality of illustrations still intrigues me today and influences my art. In my drawings, I am focusing on the surrealistic relationship of humans and animals, specifically birds. Birds symbolize the possibility of flight and freedom, and even death. I want to explore the misunderstandings and assumptions of birds and how they relate to people on an everyday basis. The possibility of birds acting beyond their “normal” modes and instead harassing, loving, or bothering people in ways least expected intrigues me. The possibility of humans using birds in an abnormal fashion, whether it is for flight or some personal fancy, also interests me. These interactions are whimsical, far‐fetched, and slightly disturbing because of their unexpected nature. The feelings that my drawings evoke are also brought forth because of the nostalgic nature old photograph quality to them that give the sense of some childhood memories that are almost forgotten. Type of Presentation: Exhibit #E2.4 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 17 - BIOCHEMISTRY

Student Author(s): Jenna Bone Classification: Senior College or University: East Carolina University Major: BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Mary Farwell Xin‐Hua Hu Title of Presentation: Effect of ePDT on MCF7 Breast Cancer Cells Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment which injects a photosensitizer (such as Photofrin) into an area which is then excited by a particular wavelength of light. This excitation leads to the release of an oxygen singlet which can then kill cells in that particular tissue. The uptake of Photofrin as a photosensitizing agent by MCF‐7 cells (human breast cancer cells) was studied as well as the effects of using electroporation‐assisted photodynamic therapy (ePDT) to enhance cytotoxicity compared with PDT alone. We also sought to elucidate the mechanism by which ePDT causes cell death using cellular analysis. MTT assays were performed which are colorimetric assays which converts a tetrazole to formazan in the presence of active mitochondrial enzymes and this was used to determine the amount of cell proliferation. A fluorescence microscopy study was done on MCF‐7 cells, using confocal imaging, to determine Photofrin uptake. To determine the cytotoxicity pathways of Photofrin and ePDT, Acridine Orange/Ethidium Bromide staining was used to differentiate cell death mode by comparing cell morphology. Overall, increased killing ability was observed when ePDT was used instead of PDT with the same amount of photosensitizer. The information gained can be used towards the development of a new method of breast conserving therapy for cancer patients. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.6 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Trace Kessler Jack Walleshauser Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Greensboro Major: BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Norman Chiu Title of Presentation: Study on MicroRNA Profile in Mouse Brain Tissues To study the global effects of microRNA on gene expression, total RNA was extracted from mouse brain tissue. By using lower percentage of ethanol and solid phase extraction with glass‐fiber, smaller RNAs (<200nt) were isolated from total RNA. The concentration and purity of smaller RNAs were determined by UV spectroscopy. The yield from the isolation of smaller RNAs was estimated to be 4ng/mg of tissue. For determining the molecular sizes of RNA, denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was performed with SYBR green II staining. Initially, an irregular pattern that diffused across multiple lanes was observed along with the expected band pattern. The irregular pattern was likely caused by a pipetting error during sample loading. To ensure the smear that appeared in the lower half of the gel was not due to partial RNA degradation as a result of any RNase activity, a gel was run comparing RNA sample that was incubated at 370C for 1hr to RNA sample without any incubation. Identical band pattern was observed in both lanes, which indicated the smear in the gel pattern did correspond to different microRNAs. The results of this study indicated higher resolving power was required to properly separate each individual microRNA. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.39 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 18 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Brittany Locklear Michael O'Brien, Katie Lewis Classification: Junior College or University: Robeson Community College Major: BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Leonard Holmes Heather Walters Title of Presentation: Comparison of Bioluminescent Properties of Vibrio fischeri and E. coli MM294 Lux+ Bacteria The growth characteristics of the gram negative bacteria Vibrio fischeri, and Escherichia coli MM294 were studied by measuring light scattering and relative luminescence of suspension and agar cultures grown in petri dishes. V. fisheri cells were grown in suspension with or without glycerol to study the effects of carbon source on relative luminescence. Glowing V. fischeri on PBA media was exposed for 20 seconds to ultraviolet light. UV exposure was shown to interfere with bacterial bioluminescence, but not cell growth. An E. coli MM294 transformation protocol using the pAMP plasmid was used to assist in the development for transformation with the pVIB plasmid (for bioluminescence). The E. coli transformation was successful with pVIB plasmid which also holds the gene for expression of ampicillin resistance. The resulting E. coli MM294 Lux+ transformants had bioluminescence properties on PBA/Amp medium. The growth curves of E. coli MM294, E. coli MM294 Lux+ and V. fischeri were generated by measuring light scattering at 600 nm.The doubling time for V. fisheri and E. coli MM294 Lux+ were determined to be 190 min and 86 min respectively at room temperature. The E. coli MM294 Lux+ doubling time at 35°C was determined to be 70 minutes. The doubling time for the E. coli MM294 (not transformed) was 106 minutes at room temperature. For V. fischeri, the pH of the suspension culture was monitored as a function of absorbance. E. coli MM294 was successfully transformed with pVIB plasmid and the resulting cultures showed bioluminescence. Future studies will quantify the relative bioluminescence of MM294 Lux+ and compare it with V. fisheri. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.45 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Beth Migliaccio Caroline Bateman Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): James Knopp Title of Presentation: Gender Differences in Performance in Principles of Biochemistry based on Bloom’s Taxonomy of Question Difficulty and Study Habits A study was conducted to investigate gender differences in examination performance and study habits in Principles of Biochemistry course for majors and honors students. The null hypothesis was that there exists no gender difference in examination performance in individual test questions regardless of question difficulty. Participants were approximately 70 female and 40 male students in the Spring 2008 class and approximately 70 female and 60 male students in the Fall 2008 class. Within each semester, all participants were given the same 50 minute examinations. The individual performance on each question was recorded. The questions on the examinations were assigned different difficulty levels based on Bloom’s taxonomy. A question weighted data analysis was utilized to normalize and to test for significant

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 19 - differences (p < 0.05) in these data per semester. Specifically, the means and standard deviations of the percent scores within a particular category were calculated based on gender. Analysis of the spring data indicated significant statistical differences in gender performance for questions in knowledge‐specifics, analysis, and synthesis. The study habits were determined by a self‐reporting questionnaire with participation points rewarded. The fall data for grade performance and study habits is currently being collected and analyzed. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.48 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Anwar Nassor Robert Brandan Wilson Classification: Sophomore College or University: Nash Community College Major: BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Michael Shaner Charles W. Bell Title of Presentation: Creation of Molecular Tools to Characterize the Regulatory Regions of Zebrafish Membrane Progestin Receptors Recently, a unique family of membrane progestin receptors (mPRα and mPRβ) was discovered in zebrafish. These receptors are classified in a receptor family called progestin and adiponectin receptor family (PAQR), based on the presence of seven transmembrane domains. These receptors are intermediaries of meiotic maturation of fish oocytes. Previous studies have demonstrated that mPRs are upregulated by gonadotropin. Additionally, putative cis‐binding elements have been identified in catfish. Recently, we identified possible cis‐binding elements in zebrafish for both mPRa and mPRb by computer analyses. The findings suggest that mPRs have the following cis‐binding elements: CRE, cAMP responsive elements; ERE, estrogen responsive element; GRE /PRE/ARE, glucocorticoid/progestin/androgen responsive element; CEBP, CCAAT/enhancer binding protein beta; E2F, transcription factors involved in cell cycle regulation and DNA synthesis. For further characterization of these putative cis‐binding elements we have cloned the 5’ upstream regulatory regions of each gene into luciferase vector. We amplified the 5’ upstream regulatory regions of mPRs using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), we ligated the DNAs of interest into a linearized, dephosphorlated pGL3 vector. After PCR was performed to verify the direction of the insert, vectors were sequenced to verify regulatory regions. The creation of these vectors will enable further promoter analysis using the luciferase assay. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.52 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 20 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Sung Park Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Steven Spiker Title of Presentation: Are putative H2A and H2B histone variants in Arabidopsis thaliana structural proteins of transcriptionally active chromatin? The classes of the histones are often expressed in families of closely related chromosomal proteins rather than unique polypeptides. In plants, the histone variants within a class can have significantly different electrophoretic mobilities. When the histones isolated from Arabidopsis thaliana, a model plant with a small genome, are analyzed on a polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic system, minor bands are visible between H3 and H4 histone bands. These bands, which are putative H2A and H2B histone variants, are prevalent in Arabidopsis, but they are barely detectable in plants with larger genomes. These observations have led to the hypothesis that minor histone variants could be structural proteins of transcriptionally active chromatin. We have thus asked if the bands on the SDS gels actually are H2A and H2B histone variants. We isolated the histones from Arabidopsis thaliana and analyzed them by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The region of minor bands was cut out and digested with trypsin. Analysis of the sequences of the tryptic peptides provided no evidence that Arabidopsis chromosomal proteins were present in these bands. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.59 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Matthew Stillwagon Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Jeffrey Stumpf Title of Presentation: Genetic Characterization of Pol Gamma Disease Mutations Reveal Decreased MtDNA Fidelity and Activity Mitochondrial DNA replication is essential for mitochondrial function, biogenesis, and cellular respiration. Over 150 nuclear mutations located on the gene that encodes the human mitochondrial DNA polymerase, POLG, have been associated with a broad spectrum of mitochondrial diseases, including Alpers Syndrome, Progressive External Opthalmoplegia, Myopathy, and Ataxia‐neuropathy. Studying these mutations in vitro has been time consuming and difficult. To characterize a larger number of mutations more easily, we used Saccharomyces cervisiae as a model system to assay 33 mutations in the yeast mitochondrial polymerase, MIP1, that are homologous to disease mutations in human POLG. We studied mtDNA replication by measuring base substitution mutagenesis and loss of mitochondrial function caused by mutant MIP1 either with or without the additional presence of wildtype MIP1. In the absence of the wild‐ type copy of MIP1, 11 mutations caused 100% petite frequency suggesting that these mutations are severe enough to cause disease. Disease mutations that caused the most severe phenotypes were mostly associated with Alpers Syndrome, a fatal childhood disease. In addition, we identified several MIP1 mutations that increased mitochondrial mutagenesis, suggesting that mutagenesis can cause or worsen mitochondrial disease. Together, this study illustrates the usefulness of yeast as a model system to study polymerase activity of Pol Gamma disease mutations. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.71 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 21 - Student Author(s): Sina Tashakkori Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill Major: BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Nicole Bennett Title of Presentation: SYNTHESIS of BIODIESEL USING ORGANIC BASES Biodiesel is an important alternative to petroleum and can be synthesized with the use of a variety of non‐reusable catalysts. Because such catalysts are non‐reusable the synthesis of biodiesel on the industrial scale is neither time efficient nor cost effective. The key to solving this problem is to develop an efficient catalyst that can be recycled. We have observed that pyridine‐based catalysts such as dibromopyridine and 2‐bromo‐6‐methoxypyridine can be used to catalyze this reaction in 1.00min in the microwave (12% conversion and 31% conversion respectively). Adding methoxy and phenoxy groups, to 2,6‐dibromopyridine makes it a more efficient catalyst. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #5 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 9:00 AM

BIOLOGY

Student Author(s): Francina Abengowe Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Maria Santisteban Title of Presentation: Cloning the suppressor of a histone variant (htz1)‐RNA pol II subunit double mutant, which affects transcription. In the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae HTZ1 gene encodes histone H2A.Z, a variant of the H2A family. H2A.Z has been conserved in its own evolutionary lineage from yeast to humans and it is an essential protein in mammals and other metazoans but not in yeast. Some time ago we carried out a synthetic lethal screen to isolate mutations that render Htz1 function essential. Through this screen, we uncovered genetic interactions between HTZ1 and genes encoding subunits of the RNA polymerase II, indicating that the polymerase is sensible to the histone composition of the template. In the present study, we attempted to identify second site suppressors of the lethality of htz1D RPB2‐2SL double mutant. RPB2 gene encodes the second largest subunit of the RNA polymerase II. A single rpb2‐2 mutation is recessive, but becomes dominant in the absence of Htz1 as if the mutant polymerase blocks the passage of the wild type enzyme through the DNA template devoid of Htz1. To clone the suppressor, a single colony of S. cerevisiae htz1 RPB2‐ 2SL sup* strain was grown overnight, transformed with a yeast genomic library and plated. Two different libraries were used in two independent transformations. In this study we have identified at least one library clone that complements the suppression of the htz1 RPB2‐2SL lethal defect by an unknown mutant gene. We expect that, after sequencing of this clone, we will be able to identify the mutant gene, and therefore learn more about the specific molecular defect in transcription of the htz1 RPB2‐2SL strain. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.2 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 22 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Clare Adams Brandon Hounshell Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Libby Puckett Mary Connell Title of Presentation: Development of a Protein‐Based System for the Detection of Organophosphates Using the pH‐Dependence of Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein This project is intended to address the need for the detection of organophosphates, which are found in pesticides, insecticides, and chemical warfare agents. Organophosphorus hydrolase, OPH, an enzyme used for organophosphate remediation, has a broad specificity for a wide variety of organophosphates. OPH, in conjunction with the reporter protein enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP), will be used to create a sensing system for a wide range of organophosphates. In the proposed assay, the OPH domain of the fusion protein will catalyze the cleavage of organophosphates, which causes a decrease in the local pH environment due to the production of protons. This, in turn, will alter the spectral properties of the attached pH‐dependent EGFP and allow kinetic measurements to be performed. Recombinant DNA technologies have been employed to create a unique plasmid containing a gene that encodes for the production of the OPH‐EGFP fusion protein. Upon protein expression and purification, this fusion protein was used to quantify organophosphates and perform kinetic studies. Two plasmids have also been created that contain OPH and EGFP separately in order to verify the local pH change. In a future direction, this protein will be utilized for the determination of organophosphate bioavailability via whole‐cell sensing. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.4 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Joshua Bartel Luke Bohanan, Ann‐Gelle Carter, Christa Fleming, Amandeep Gujral, Sapan Kapadia,Jazmin Marlin, Christopher Oakley, Krizella Ordanes, Nicole Stroud and Amy Walence Classification: Junior College or University: East Carolina University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Carol Goodwillie Title of Presentation: A Long‐term Experiment in Plant Community Ecology: The First Five Years The factors that affect species diversity have long been of interest to ecologists. This experiment focuses on the effects of disturbance and fertilization on plant community composition in a wetland environment. We studied the presence and abundance (stem count and percent cover) of plant species in eight blocks located at East Carolina University’s West Research Campus, an area defined as a jurisdiction wetland. Fertilizer and mowing were applied in treatment plots within the blocks along with a control and a combination of the two treatments. Ninety‐six randomly assigned “quadrats” were positioned in the eight blocks. The data are collected from these quadrats every August for analysis by a team of undergraduate researchers advised by Dr. Goodwillie. In addition, the students perform independent research studies of their choice based on the data collected. In 2008, the students explored a broad range of topics including changes in diversity, shifts in species’ dominance, hydrology, trends in Dichanthelium abundance, and the effects of fertilization on species richness, species with varying wetland indicator status, and Arundinaria gigantea ssp. tecta. This research allows students an opportunity to take their knowledge from the classroom to the field and contribute to the scientific community. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.5 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 23 - Student Author(s): Binny Bhandary Andrea Rockel Classification: Senior College or University: Salem College Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Daniel Wozniak Title of Presentation: High Frequency of Hypermutable Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Cystic Fibrosis Lungs. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a free living, Gram‐negative rod shaped “opportunist pathogen”. It is a leading cause of “nosocomial infections”. Pseudomonas has the potential of causing acute as well as chronic effects on the patients.The lungs of Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients are chronically infected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with cystic fibrosis. Pseudomonas colonies adapt to the highly compartmentalized and anatomically deteriorating lung environment of CF lungs. Due to the production of exopolysaccharide alginate in CF lungs, the phenotype of the bacteria changes from being non‐mucoid to mucoid. With this phenotype change there are other genotypic changes too. One of such changes has found to be the emergence of hypermuatable strains of bacteria in the CF lungs. Mutation frequency of 20 CF isolates and 10 non CF isolates was calculated using rifanpicin plates. Rifampicin is used as an antibiotic because mutations in rpoB leading to rifampicin resistance are indicative of the mutation frequency across the genome. It was observed that 7 out of 20 isoaltes from CF lungs were hypermuable whereas none of the non CF isolates were hypermutable. This supported our hypothesis that there is higher frequency of hypermutable Pseudomonas aeruginosa in CF lung than non CF. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.4 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Katherine Bridges Eric Fulkerson Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Pat Estes Title of Presentation: Comparison of regulatory regions of midline neuron and midline glial genes required for cell development in the central nervous system Our research focuses on the formation of the central nervous system during development and specifically, how Drosophila midline cells develop into both neurons and glia. Midline cells are centrally located within the central nervous system of the fly and help organize this system during development. Drosophila is a model organism for scientific research because of its sequenced genome, rapid development and the number of genetic tools available. There are many genes critical for cell development in the central nervous system that both Drosophila and vertebrates have in common. The important similarities occur in the function of these genes in regulating neural and glial cell development. To better understand midline neuron and glial cell development in the CNS, we must study the regions in the DNA required to turn genes on and off in midline neurons and glial. We study the regulation of midline by generating reporter genes, introducing them into flies and following their expression pattern. The purpose of comparing neural and glial genes is to ultimately determine how these different cell types are formed during CNS development. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.8 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 24 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Stephen Bryant Sadondria Richardson Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina A & T State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): C. Dinitra White G. Goins Title of Presentation: The Effect of Gravitational Change on Biofilm Formation of Non‐typeable Haemophilus influenza 86‐028 NP Haemophilus influenza, an opportunistic human pathogen, has evolved to thrive in the mucosal tissues, specifically the nasopharynx and respiratory tract. Non‐typeable H. influenza (NTHi) infection may result in development of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other upper respiratory disorders. Immunocompromised individuals are especially susceptible to infection with NTHi. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is exploring the possibility of long‐term colonization and a future manned mission to Mars. However; exposure to microgravity results in decreased immune function in humans. Although little is known about the effect of microgravity on human microflora or known pathogens, studies have shown that Salmonella enterica, a food‐borne pathogen, grown in a microgravity environment expresses additional factors which lead to higher mortality rates in a mouse model of infection. To date, few studies of other human pathogens have been conducted. Therefore, we examined the effect of simulated micro‐ gravity on NTHi biofilm formation, a known virulence determinant. Liquid cultures were grown at 1 RPM to simulate microgravity; while controls were grown under normal gravity conditions at 1 RPM. A colorimetric assay was then performed to quantitate biofilm production. Our preliminary data indicate that NTHi, subjected to simulated microgravity, was capable of producing biofilms in this assay. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.9 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Nickolas Buchanan Sarah Keasey Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Nicole Bennett Lynn Siefferman Title of Presentation: Analysis of Natural Products (Carotenoids) in Bird Feathers and Egg Yolk Carotenoids are the colored pigments that are synthesized and stored in the chromoplasts of plants and algae. Carotenoids, such as β‐carotene, lutein, xanthophylls, and vitamin E, contain conjugated double bond systems that can be identified by UV‐vis. Examples of carotenoids can be found in egg yolk and bird feathers. We have observed lutein amounts of 78.0μg/g in Eastern Bluebird egg yolk samples, 2.193mg lutein/g feather in Pileated Woodpecker, 0.062mg lutein/g feather in Northern Flicker, 1.957mg lutein/g feather in Yellow Throated Warblers, and 1.021mg lutein/g feather in Eastern Meadowlark feathers. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.10 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 25 - Student Author(s): Domonique Bulls Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina A & T State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Jacquelyn Fetrow Gregory Goins Title of Presentation: Identifying Functional Sites Common to the GCN5‐Related‐N‐Acetyltransferases (GNAT FAMILY) Through Computational Methods This research focuses on the complexity of proteins and their active/functional sites. The GCN5‐Related‐N‐ Acetyltransferases (GNAT) is a superfamily of proteins which catalyze the transfer of the acetyl group from acetyl coenzyme A to a primary amine. The GNAT superfamily is apportioned into the sub families; Histone N‐ Acetyltransferases (HAT), Aminoglycoside N‐Acetyltransferases, Serotonin N‐Acetyltransferases (AANAT), Glucosamine 6‐Phosphate N‐Acetyltransferases, Mycothiol Synthases, Protein N‐Myristoyl Transferases, and the Fem Family of Amino Acyl Transferases. The goal is to identify functional sites and other structural motifs that are common to the superfamily and subfamilies with the assistance of computational methods such as Wake Forest University's Protein Active Site Structure Search (PASSS), Theoretical Microscopic Titration Curves (THEMATICS), protein's tertiary structures, sequentially conserved residues, and spatial distance. In order to get a more accurate description of the GNAT superfamily the research was centered on the subfamily Aminogylcoside N‐Acetyltransferase. 1B87 is the representative protein for this family.. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.12 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Jennifer Byrd Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina A & T State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Goldie Byrd Title of Presentation: Reactions to Race:An Analysis of the Distribution of Responses to the Reactions to Race Module by Socially Assigned Race, Delaware, 2002‐2005 The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System is a nation wide telephone survey that gathers information pertaining to the health of an individual, and how their own behaviors and experiences impact their health. The Reactions to Race Questionnaire is an optional module, or question set under the BRFSS, and it gathers information concerning how one is “socially assigned” race, and how this assignment affects the person being questioned physically, and psychologically. This study analyzes the distribution of the responses to the Reactions to Race module from Whites, Blacks, and Latino Americans in the state of Delaware. SAS in conjunction with SUDAAN were used to perform the analysis. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #36 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 1:30 PM

- 26 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Zena Cardman Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Darlene Lim Chris McKay Title of Presentation: Astrobiological Studies in the Canadian High Arctic and in Pavilion Lake, British Columbia PERENNIAL SPRINGS IN THE HIGH ARCTIC. Perennial spring activity occurs at multiple locations in the Expedition Fiord area of Axel Heiberg Island, around 79N. These springs exhibit constant flow rate and temperature, although air temperatures range from +15oC to ‐40oC, with a mean annual temperature of ‐15oC. Yet despite their proximity, each spring is unique. The proposed hydrological model shows the springs originating approximately 600m underground, and includes a deep subsurface salt layer, with water entering and leaving through piercement structures. As part of a continued study of these springs, carbonate samples were collected at the Gypsum Hill site, as well as at a possible relic spring site, to determine whether they were of the same source as the modern springs. MICROBIALITE MORPHOGENESIS IN PAVILION LAKE, BRITISH COLUMBIA. Unusual freshwater microbialite structures exist in Pavilion Lake. These microbialites may be analogs for Precambrian reefs on Earth. The microbialites show striking morphological variation by depth, with structures ranging from cauliflower‐like mounds to tall, chimney‐like cones. We have used Nuytco’s DeepWorker submersibles to take extensive video of the lake at all depths in order to eventually create a high‐ resolution map of varying microbialite morphology throughout Pavilion Lake. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.10 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Caroline Cochrane Kyle Nelson Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Ted Zerucha Title of Presentation: Regulation of the Meis2 Homeobox Gene My research project works with the Meis homeobox‐containing gene family, the products of which seem to function as cofactors that facilitate transcriptional regulation. In particular, they seem to be cofactors of the evolutionarily well‐ conserved Hox proteins. Homologues of this gene have been found in all organisms that have been studied. The vertebrate Meis homeobox‐containing gene family consists of at least three members. Not much is known about their regulation, but we do know that they are expressed in conserved patterns throughout the embryonic development of all the vertebrates that have been examined. We are currently searching for regulatory elements associated with these genes. We have already identified one element located downstream of the Meis2 gene in zebrafish. This element is very well‐conserved in sequence and relative position amongst the genomes of all vertebrates that we have been able to examine, including human, mouse, chicken, zebrafish and pufferfish. Furthermore, this element contains several sequences consistent with binding sites for other homeodomain proteins. By characterizing this element we hope to gain insights into the control of Meis gene expression and to also obtain a better understanding of how the expression of cofactors is coordinated with that of their partners during development. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.12 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 27 - Student Author(s): Michael Colgan Maegan Canha, Jasmine Ammon Classification: Sophomore College or University: Appalachian State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Shea Tuberty Title of Presentation: Vitellogenesis Induction in Male Fish Exposed to Municipal Wastewater Effluent Estrogens in an Appalachian Mountain Stream We estimate that 3550 female ASU students are currently being prescribed estrogenic oral contraceptives (17‐ ethynylestradiol). It is known that estrogens are eliminated from the body in urine, and that currently used municipal wastewater treatments do not remove many of the eliminated pharmaceuticals from sewage before release back into surface waters. We hypothesized that the levels of estrogen in the Boone Wastewater Treatment Plant effluent were sufficient to adversely affect aquatic life in the South Fork of the New river. Evidence of fish endocrine disruption (ED) is the unnatural presence of the egg yolk protein, vitellogenin (Vtg), in the plasma of male fish. Female fish of the same species make this protein as a precursor for egg production, but males should not produce this specific protein. Fish were collected by electroshocking, and serum collected by cardiac puncture. Proteins were visualized by 10% polyacrylamide electrophoresis and western blotting, using an anti‐carp primary Vtg antibody. We report here that ED, as evidenced by presence of Vtg, occurred in 66% of male fish populations (northern hogsucker and white sucker) living immediately downstream of the sewage effluent. Future work will involve effect of seasonal sewage effluent, determining concentrations of estrogens, and extent of downstream effects. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #11 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 9:30 AM

Student Author(s): Seth Congdon Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Michael Schwartz Title of Presentation: Light Induced c‐Fos Expression in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus of Forced Desynchronized Rats Locomotor activity of rats housed in a 22‐hour light‐dark (LD) cycle exhibit two simultaneous circadian rhythms: one entrained to the LD cycle, and the other free‐runs with a period >24 hours. Clock gene oscillations in the dorsomedial (dm‐) and ventrolateral suprachiasmatic nucleus (vlSCN) correspond with the free‐running and entrained bouts, respectively, suggesting that these subregions drive the bouts. This forced desynchronized (FD) model was used to explore the response of these subregions to phase‐resetting light pulses. Light pulses presented at night rapidly up‐ regulate the clock gene per1 and the immediate early gene cfos within the SCN. In FD rats, light‐induced per1 mRNA expression is elevated in the vlSCN independently of the dmSCN’s phase. The present study explores whether this response is correlated with up‐regulation of c‐Fos protein. Sections through the SCN of light‐ or control‐pulsed FD rats were processed by immunocytochemistry for c‐Fos expression. The number of c‐Fos immunoreactive cells was elevated in the vlSCN of light‐pulsed animals compared to control‐pulsed animals and the dmSCN of both light‐ and control‐ pulsed animals. This suggests that the vlSCN of FD rats can respond functionally to light independently of the dmSCN for both mRNA and protein expression. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.15 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 28 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Shavonne Dixon Portia Mason, Keywana Darden Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina A & T State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Dinitra White Title of Presentation: Analysis of Lipooligosaccharide in the Food‐Borne Pathogen Campylobacter coli Campylobacter coli is a food borne bacterial pathogen and is the second most prevalent cause of human campylobacteriosis world‐wide. C. coli infection is commonly acquired through ingestion of contaminated meats and water. C. jejuni, a closely related species, is the most common cause of human gastroenteritis and has previously been shown to express a form of lipooligosaccharide (LOS) thought to be involved in the development of Guillain Barre Syndrome. Previously, the CCO1212, CCO1213, rfaF and rfaC genes were determined to play a role in the biogenesis of LOS in C. jejuni. To better understand the role of these genes in LOS biogenesis in C. coli, our lab is currently working to develop isogenic mutants in these target genes. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to PCR amplify each gene, clone the genes into the TOPO‐TA cloning system, and use the generated vectors for complementation of the mutated C. coli strains. Thus far, the approximately 1,400 bp CCO1212 gene has been successfully cloned into the TOPO‐TA cloning vector. Studies are ongoing to clone the remaining target genes, CCO1213, rfaF and rfaC, and to use these vectors for complementation. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.19 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Meghan Fitzgerald Jenny Celin, Jenny Yang Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Greensboro Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Jan Rychtar Mary Crowe Title of Presentation: When Does Stealing Cost Too Much? A Model of Kleptoparasitic Behavior A number of species of dung beetles are found in the cow pastures of North Carolina, though none are more widely studied then Onthophagus taurus. This beetle has captured the attention of researchers due to dimorphic horn size in the males, and kleptoparasitic, or stealing, behavior in the females. These kleptoparasitic females are known to steal the brood balls of other beetles. When they find a brood ball they will kill the egg within and lay their own, thus saving the cost of building the brood ball for themselves. When looking to model this behavior we asked some important questions: “What conditions make stealing a favorable choice for the beetle?” and “Under what circumstance should a beetle guard her eggs to prevent kleptoparasites from stealing them?” Using game theoretical modeling and empirical testing of the behavior, our research group has built a deterministic model of the kleptoparasitic behavior of O. taurus as well as found Evolutionarily Stable Strategies within the population. This model enables us to make predictions regarding the advantage to stealing and guarding behavior in various environments. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #39 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 2:15 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 29 - Student Author(s): Jesse Fox Mamata Thapa Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina A & T State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Janice Zengel Lasse Lindahl Title of Presentation: PCR SOEING STREP‐TAG INTO L17A IN SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE Ribosomes are the universal organelles responsible for catalyzing protein synthesis. The ribosome is made up of RNAs and proteins. L17A, a protein of the large ribosomal subunit, contains a dawn out ‘tentacle’ that reaches into the core and helps forms the lining of the nascent peptide exit tunnel. In eubacteria, mutations in the tentacle region of L22 (L17A’s equivalent) bestow resistance to macrolide antibiotics. We are studying the homologous tentacle in S. cerevisiae to learn more about its role in ribosome biogenesis, function and cell function. In order to learn about L17A, we need a way to identify it. Since we have no antibody, we are constructing a derivative of the gene for L17A with a sequence encoding a “strep‐tag” at the N‐terminal end of the protein. The resulting gene will encode an L17a protein with the 8 amino acid strep‐tag, and the commercially available strep antibody can be used to identify the strep and the protein. The strep‐tag will enable researchers to identify the L17A protein and track its expression throughout the cell and within the ribosome. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.24 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Robert Howington Miranda Miles, Bashir Kamara Classification: Sophomore College or University: Appalachian State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Guichuan Hou Title of Presentation: Exploring Modern Microscopy and Imaging Technology at the Dewel M Microscopy Facility Microscopy is the technique of examining and producing images using a microscope, an instrument which provides an enlarged view of objects not visible to the human eye. Microscopy has been utilized by students and scientists of many disciplines and continues to benefit scientific imaging with the advancing of both microscopy itself and computer‐ assisted imaging technology. We are learning and exploring a variety of microscopy techniques and how different scientific disciplines use the equipment for conducting research. We are conducting experiments with the different types of microscopes in the Dewel Microscopy Facility in the College of Arts and Sciences at ASU in order to discover the multiple applications of each microscope in the numerous fields of science. For example, a dissecting/stereoscopic microscope has a large depth of field, combining with a modern video camera can obtain video or images of live specimen at the macroscopic level, which could be beneficial to a biologist studying insect anatomy, a geologist studying the characteristics of rocks, a forensic scientist examining evidence for criminal investigation, or a botanist studying root systems. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.30 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 30 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Daniel Jackson Yosuke Sakamachi Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Shea Tuberty Title of Presentation: AppalSEED AppalSEED, or Appalachian Student Experience‐based EDucation, is a program designed to expand and empower the pool of future innovators for success, particularly for those with limited access to technology and scientific expertise. The program involves talented 9th grade students from a unique population of Northwestern North Carolina. This pool of students includes those whose ethnicities are underrepresented in the scientific community, students who are underrepresented due to low income, and students who are home schooled. AppalSEED will help North Carolina maintain a competitive edge in science and will promote an economy that is increasingly dependent on and driven by scientific innovations created by these talented students. These students will be involved in “minds on” and “hands on” experience in the field of biology and chemistry for two academic semesters. Faculty members of the ASU Departments of Biology and Chemistry are the principal investigators for this program. Our focus in this program is educating the students about issues involving environmental toxicology with Dr. Tuberty, mainly dealing with toxic metal (arsenic and lead) deposits, in water, soil, and vegetation from acid mine drainage and pesticides application at the Moses Cone Manor on the Blue Ridge Parkway Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.32 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Edwina Joe Lee Miller Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Lane Tredway Title of Presentation: Phylogenetic analysis of the fungi causing fairy rings on golf putting greens using Beta‐ tubulin sequences The fungi that cause fairy rings in golf course putting greens are identified based on their sexual fruiting bodies (puffballs or mushrooms), however, these are rarely produced in nature. Molecular techniques may be useful in identifying fairy ring pathogens. Genomic DNA was extracted from puffballs and mycelia cords collected from bentgrass and bermudagrass golf course putting greens exhibiting fairy ring symptoms. The ITS1 and ITS2 regions of the rDNA and a portion of the Beta‐tubulin gene were amplified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced using cycle sequencing. Sequences of closely‐related fungi were downloaded from GenBank for inclusion in the analysis. The resulting sequences were aligned using the ClustalW algorithm, and phylogenetic trees were constructed by parsimony and Neighbor‐joining analysis. The Beta‐tubulin and the ITS region parsimony tree and Neighbor‐joining analysis were constructed and compared. This is a phylogenetic method used in identifying fungi morphologically. Both Beta‐tubulin and ITS contained field‐collected isolates and downloaded sequences from GenBank. The Parsimony analysis for Beta‐ tubulin revealed trees with minimal bootstrap and Bremer supports at each node. Results from the ITS region parsimony tree showed more trees with high bootstrap and Bremer supports at each node therefore having more matched sequences from GenBank. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.35 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 31 - Student Author(s): Anju Karki Matt Conover Classification: Senior College or University: Salem College Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Rebecca Dunn Rajendar Deora Title of Presentation: The BpsR regulatory protein represses the production of the Bps polysaccharide and biofilm formation in Bordetella Bordetella are Gram‐negative bacteria which preferentially bind to the ciliated epithelium of the respiratory tract of animals and humans . There are three species of Bordetella that are commonly researched. Bordetella pertussis is the human pathogen that causes the disease known as whooping cough. B.bronchiseptica predominantly infects animals and contributes to a variety of respiratory diseases. B. parapertussis strains can infect humans causing a pertussis‐like illness and respiratory infections in sheep. Early research has shown that BvgAS locus in the three Bordetella species controls biofilm development. Biofilms are structured communities of sessile bacterial cells that are encased in a self‐ produced polymeric organic matrix.A defining characteristic of mature biofilms is that bacteria are embedded in a matrix composed of nucleic acids, proteins and polysaccharides. Bordetella produce a polysaccharide known as Bps that is crucial for biofilm development. Understanding the regulation of Bps by the protein Bordetella polysaccharide Repressor (BpsR) could help determine the function of Bps as well as its role in biofilm development and virulence. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.28 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Asif Khan Classification: H.S. Senior College or University: North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Michael Kelley Title of Presentation: Association of a 15q25 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism with Smoking in African‐ Americans Lung Cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide; more than 87% of LC is attributable to tobacco smoking. Three recent studies conducted in Europe have associated LC risk with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on 15q25 near the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) genes CHRNA5, CHRNA3, and CHRNB4. These studies used Illumina HumanHap300 SNP chips, which is an expensive and time consuming process. Our study concentrated on establishing a rapid, yet accurate and inexpensive assay for rs16969968, one of the 15q25 region SNPs. PCR was performed on 307 non‐European samples followed by digestion with Hinf1which digests only the A allele. Agarose (2%) gel electrophoresis was used to resolve the fragments and assign genotype: single band (368 bp), homozygous A/A; two bands, homozygous G/G; and three bands, heterozygous A/G. The control group (C175, C215, C222) was sequenced to ensure accuracy of the PCR‐RFLP assay and all samples were concordant. All 307 samples have been genotyped. This rapid and inexpensive assay can now be used determine if the 15q25 region SNPs are associated with LC and smoking in non‐European populations, and incorporated into smoking cessation studies examining whether genetic risk alters smoking behavior. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.30 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 32 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Joo en Kim Classification: Junior College or University: Mars Hill College Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Joann Croom Title of Presentation: Roma population's past and present Romas, as known as Gypsies, are very interesting group of people. One might think that Romas are romantic travelers here today and gone tomorrow. But in fact, there are more distinguishable characters for them. Nomadic group, uneducated, destitute, and desperate for health care. This is a general picture of Romas in Europe, especially in Greece, where I used to live with my parents who are missionaries and help the Roma population. I started doing a research on Romas history. I was interested in comparing history of Romas by historians and the oral history of Romas that has been passed from generation to generation. (Romas don’t have their own alphabet). And further I started doing a research on their current living conditions by visiting their villages and reading articles and researches on Romas life style and condition. I tried to find out how much health care the Romas get from the society by doing survey to Roma people. At the same time I wanted to find out how many people in the society are helping Romas by getting in touch with several non profit organizations in Greece. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #9 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 9:00 AM

Student Author(s): Lieselotte Kreuk Richard Von Furstenburg Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Susan Henning Title of Presentation: A Co‐culture System for Intestinal Stem Cells Every 3‐4 days our entire intestinal lining needs to be renewed because of the damage induced by luminal contents. This extremely high rate of epithelial turnover is achieved as a result of intestinal stem cells that reside in the intestinal crypts. In 2005, due to a breakthrough in the laboratory of my mentor Dr. Susan Henning, it was possible to isolate a viable fraction enriched for putative intestinal stem cells (PISC). This summer, I developed a co‐culture system of PISC with pericryptal myofibroblasts, a well known cell type in the intestinal niche (where stem cells reside), in hopes of observing proliferation (cell division) and differentiation (cell specialization). In each of my experiments, I removed the jejunum from mice and digested the tissue into single cells. I then plated them with different fibroblast lines. Some experimental conditions included different concentrations of serum in the media, different types of media, and different sizes of wells on a cell culture plate. The intestinal stem cells were isolated from GFP mice, whose cells fluoresce green, in order to track viability and proliferation. I am still continuing this project in hopes of adding to the development of its therapeutic potential. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.32 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 33 - Student Author(s): Kevin Lambirth Lindsey Rearigh Classification: Junior College or University: Pfeiffer University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Dane Fisher Title of Presentation: Expression of Genes in Soybean Cultures by using Agrobacterium as a Medium for Plasmid Transformation By using agrobacterium cells and ring structures of DNA commonly called plasmids, we are able to incorporate certain plasmids representing different functions into these cells. By transforming the plasmid into E. Coli, we use the natural process of DNA replication to multiply the plasmid in preparation for transformation into the agrobacterium. By infecting the soybean cultures with this bacteria, the plasmid is effectively transferred over and expressed through the plant tissue. This opens new avenues of oral vaccine administration and pharmaceutical development by using different plasmids containing different genes to be expressed. Soybeans can then be used in place of pill form drugs to certain diseases and conditions. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.42 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Shannon Landvater Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina A & T State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): C. Dinitra White Title of Presentation: Creation of a DsrA Class II mutant in Haemophilus ducreyi strains HMC112 and DMC111 Haemophilus ducreyi is the etiologic agent of chancroid, a sexually transmitted genital ulcer disease that increases the risk of HIV transmission. Chancroid ulcers are characterized by soft, painful ulcers that bleed readily and may provide a suitable environment for the acquisition, maintenance, and spread of HIV. The well studied type strain H. ducreyi 35000HP was previously sequenced and annotated by Robert Munson and colleagues. Compared to 35000HP, several clinical isolates possessed variations in the amino acid composition and/or protein expression of virulence‐associated outer membrane proteins and lipooligosaccharide. Therefore, 35000HP‐like strains were designated class I (CI), and strain variants were designated class II (CII). We have previously been unable to generate an isogenic mutant in the H. ducreyi CII strains using traditional methods. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to construct a non‐plasmid, CII dsrAII‐deletion cassette by employing a novel technique consisting of overlapping extension polymerase chain reaction (oePCR). Thus far, we have not successfully amplified the expected PCR products from HMC112 and DMC111; however, we have amplified the approximately 950 bp CAT DNA product. Studies are currently underway to modify the PCR protocol to allow amplification of these PCR products and completion of the deletion cassettes. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.33 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 34 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Tiffany Lee Joseph A.Miri Classification: Sophomore College or University: East Carolina University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Michael Bassman David Tank Title of Presentation: Gene Expression in the Oculomotor Neural Integrators of the Zebrafish Persistent neural activity, a sustained change in neural firing in response to transient input, is observed in many brain regions and maybe an essential form of brain dynamics. This circuit dynamic has been associated with short‐term memory and memory guided behavior. In order to better understand the mechanisms of persistent neural activity, we study the oculomotor neural integrator of the zebrafish. During saccadic eye movement, this integrator transforms brief velocity signals that evoke saccades into a persistent signal encoding eye position used to hold the eye still in between saccades. The mechanism(s) of persistent activity in the oculomotor integrator remain unknown; therefore we set out to identify genes expressed in neurons of the oculomotor neural integrator that maybe important for determining their unique functional character. Fluorescence imaging of calcium‐sensitive dyes has found populations of neural integrator cells in the caudal hindbrain of the zebrafish. Previous using has also determined that homologs of a set of transcription factors expressed in the murine ventral spinal cord are expressed in the hindbrain of larval zebrafish. Our current focus is on performing non‐radioactive RNA in situ hybridizations on frozen longitudinal tissue sections of 7‐15 day old zebrafish larvae in order to better localize the expression of these genes. Significant progress has been made in adapting existing in situ protocols for use in larval brain tissue. The primary genes that we are focusing on in this study are Shox2, Chx10, and Sox14. Our preliminary data suggests that these genes are expressed throughout the larval brain, including areas of the caudal hindbrain. By gaining a full understanding of how these genes are being expressed and regulated, we will be able to open the door for further research and an understanding of the processes of neural integration and persistent neural activity; we will also be one step closer to understanding the overall dynamics of the brain. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #10 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 9:15 AM

Student Author(s): Rhonda McClure Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Meredith Storms Title of Presentation: The Determination of the Total Anthocyanin Content in Commercially Available Bilberry Capsules Using pH‐Differential Spectrophotometry The use of Traditional Medicine / Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TM/CAM) is increasing rapidly in the United States. Despite the increase in the use of herbal products as a result of their promising potential, questions remain concerning their quality, safety and efficacy (QSE). Published analyses of herbal supplements have found differences between what is listed on the label and what is in the bottle. Also, the word "standardized" on a product label is no guarantee of higher product quality, since in the United States there is no legal definition of "standardized" (or “certified” or “verified”) for supplements. Therefore, the goal of this project is to employ pH‐differential spectrophotometry to assess the total anthyocyanin content in commercially available bilberry capsules to determine the variability among brands that are labeled “standardized”. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #8 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 9:45 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 35 - Student Author(s): Alexander McKenzie Brendon Fussnecker Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Christina Grozinger Title of Presentation: Effect of queen mandibular pheromone (QMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) on vitellogenin gene expression in honey bees (Apis mellifera) I am working with honey bees (Apis mellifera). I am treating the experimental bees with cGMP/sucrose food and the control bees with only the sucrose food. I will be comparing the experiment and control groups lipid levels, retinue response to QMP and expression of the gene vitellogenin through qRT‐PCR and microarrays. Vitellogenin encodes an egg yolk precursor protein and is stored in the heads and the fat bodies of honey bee abdomens. The fat bodies of nurse bees contain higher levels of vitellogenin than the fat bodies of forager bees. In honey bees pheromone communication plays an important role in the regulation of honey bee physiology and behavior. Queen mandibular pheromone (QMP) is one pheromone involved in this process. Presence of QMP delays the transition of nursing bee to forager bee. Cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) increases the rate of transition of nurse bee to forager bee. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.39 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Marvin Morales‐Jacinto Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Nicole Michel Title of Presentation: Microhabitat and dietary preferences of white‐breasted wood wren (Henicorhina leucosticta) in a rainforest reserve in Costa Rica. I followed white‐breasted wood‐wrens (Henicorhina leucosticta) to determine location of foraging sites within territories in old growth, selectively logged, abandoned agroforestry plots, and secondary forest at La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica. Species exhibiting strong specialization or selectivity for certain habitats, prey types, or foraging strategies are more susceptible to habitat perturbation, fragmentation, or loss, whereas generalists are better able to adapt. Thus, we predicted that H. leucosticta would exhibit minimal selectivity for microhabitat and prey types. We captured individual birds to obtain stomach samples through regurgitation, which then we analyzed for diet composition and preference. Foraging sites were surveyed for twenty microhabitat variables and arthropod prey availability to determine selectivity or non‐discriminatory selection for territories. Henicorhina leucosticta did not show discriminatory selection for territories based on arthropod prey availability. Stomach samples revealed that H. leucosticta’s diet is broader than previously recorded, including plant seeds and bryophytes. Variables such as higher tree density, greater percentage of ground covered by vegetation in territory sites, suggest discriminatory selectivity for microhabitat types. Future work on H. leucosticta should investigate differences in habitat utilization, territory size, and nest success in forests at different levels of succession in order to categorize H. leucosticta’s habitat quality. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.50 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 36 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Jillian Osborne Classification: Senior College or University: East Carolina University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Roger Rulifson Title of Presentation: Use of Sagittal Otoliths to Determine Age of Longnose Gar (Lepisosteus osseus)with Additional Contributions to the Life History The longnose gar (Lepisosteus osseus) is a voracious predator; inhabiting fresh and brackish water and rapidly growing to a large size. This study determined ages using sectioned sagittal otoliths. Sagittae were extracted from longnose gar collected at the Lake Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge and the Tar River in eastern North Carolina. Each fish was sexed and weighed; gonads were removed and weighed to determine gonadosomatic indices. Population length‐weight relationships for the gar in these two populations were: TL = 222.86Ln(WT)‐880.49 (r2=0.8926) for Mattamuskeet, and TL=137.81Ln(WT)‐246.63 (r2=0.9711) for the Tar River population. Length‐weight relationships by sex were TL=161.96Ln(WT)‐441.54 (r2=0.5493) for Mattamuskeet males and for females was TL=217.45Ln(WT)‐785.49 (r2=0.882). Tar River fish had length‐weight relationships of TL=163.62Ln(WT)‐412.04 for males (r2=0.9399), and TL=129.83Ln(WT)‐ 200.44 for immature fish (r2=0.9688). Mature females were absent from this sample set. Results of sagittae ageing showed distinct age classes corresponding to the length‐weight relationships. Sexes exhibited differences in otolith size at age. Gonadosomatic indices indicated longer spawning seasons than previously thought. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.55 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Katrina Pergerson Classification: Senior College or University: Catawba College Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Constance Rogers‐Lowery Title of Presentation: The Effects of Movement on Calcification in Newly Settled Coral Polyps Many invertebrates undergo life cycles that consist of a motile larval stage followed by a sessile adult stage. One such invertebrate is Favia fragum, a coral that forms small rounded colonies. Like many other coral, this species undergoes the process of calcification. During the calcification process, organisms absorb calcium from seawater and use it for many physiological processes, such as metamorphosis. The calcium is then deposited by the calicoblast, forming a calcium carbonate skeleton. This study uses F. fragum to determine the effects that movement has on calcification in newly settled polyps by using a constant water flow to insinuate movement. The amount of calcification experienced by the polyps is measured using two methods. Using the first method, organisms are observed over time and measurements of their diameter are taken and compared to see how much the organism has grown with the assumption that more growth results from calcification. The second method uses Alizarin Red S stain to assay bio‐ mineralization. This is a color metric technique in which the stain binds to calcium molecules within the organism (a 1:1 ratio). The amount of stain absorbed is measured using a spectrophotometer. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #7 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 9:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 37 - Student Author(s): Lindsey Rearigh Classification: Junior College or University: Pfeiffer University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Dane Fisher Title of Presentation: Agrobacteria Transformation The objective of this research is to transform soy bean plants with isolated DNA. Isolating DNA, transforming e. coli, and transforming agrobacterium have been successfully mastered. Two techniques of agrobacterium transformation have been developed and are being tested including electrophoration and the freeze thaw method. Initial results have been successful with multiple plasmids with the electrophoration method and data is still being collected for the freeze thaw method. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.61 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Cheston Saunders Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina‐Wilmington Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Tom Kunz Title of Presentation: A Twist on Diversity: The Influence of Age, Gender and Culture on Peer Instruction In recent years, the popularity of peer‐instruction methods has risen drastically within the educational community. Up until now, many professors have looked down on instruction “presided” over by students who are not currently pursing graduate education. The Supplemental Instruction movement was fostered by the finding that not only do students who receive collaborative instruction by baccalaureate and post‐baccalaureate students demonstrate the same level of subject matter mastery as students who receive instruction from graduate students, they also report higher levels of interest in science itself, particularly biology. Diversity in tutoring has become increasingly important; however, this is only within the styles of teaching and learning. An effective SI leader must realize that diversity is a non‐limited term that must expand beyond methods of teaching and learning to include inter/multidisciplinary studies in addition to identities such as gender, age, race, and sexuality. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.49 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 38 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Deanna Schmidt Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Greensboro Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Elizabeth Lacey Title of Presentation: The Effect of Temperature and Floral Reflectance Plasticity on the Male Function of the Flower in Plantago lanceolata In some plant species, temperature is known to affect the male function of flowers, i.e., the ability to produce pollen that can sire offspring. Increasing temperature can accelerate pollen tube growth rate in some species, but induce male sterility in others. Thermal effects on male function in Plantago lanceolata, an introduced weed, are unknown. Because temperature influences floral reflectance, e.g., color, in P. lanceolata, it is possible that temperature also influences male function and that male function is correlated with the degree of thermal sensitivity in reflectance. To test these hypotheses, we examined the effects of temperature and floral reflectance on pollen grain size and germination. Pollen grain diameter and percent germination were measured on pollen samples collected from 28 genotypes that were induced to flower at high and low temperatures in growth chambers. We used genotypes that differed in thermal sensitivity for reflectance. Experiments showed that male sterility and pollen size and germination were influenced by both genotype and temperature. Genotypes of different thermal sensitivities in reflectance varied in their germination and size responses to temperature. Thus, temperature effects on male function are likely to be highly variable and genotype‐specific in natural populations of P. lanceolata Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.65 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Rosemary Shay Classification: H.S. Senior College or University: North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): William Wetsel William Siesser, Ramona Rodriguiz Title of Presentation: Behavioral Effects of NPFF Receptor Knock‐Down in Dopamine Transporter (DAT) Knock‐ Out (KO) Mice Neuropeptide FF (NPFF) regulates central nervous system functioning through NPFF1 and NPFF2 receptors. NPFF modulates dopamine and regulates locomotor activity, pain sensitivity, and mood. We examined the role of NPFF in dopamine transporter knock‐out (DAT‐KO) and wild‐type (WT) mice using virally‐induced siRNA to these receptors. NPFF1‐ and NPFF2‐knockdown (KD) mice showed no differences in anxiety from WT controls. Only WT NPFF1‐KD mice showed reductions in locomotor activity in the open field. Compared to non‐treated DAT‐KO controls (KO‐no/siRNA), KO NPFF1‐ or NPFF2‐KD showed no alterations in anxiety. DAT mutants displayed hyperlocomotion in the open field, and KO NPFF1‐ and NPFF2‐KD mice had significantly reduced locomotion. In nociception tests, KO NPFF1‐ and NPFF2‐KD and KO‐ no/siRNA showed decreased pain sensitivity after single morphine injection. After 8 days of morphine treatment, KO‐ no/siRNA no longer showed morphine effects (tolerance), while KO NPFF1‐ and NPFF2‐KD continued to demonstrate effects of morphine treatment. These data show that NPFF1 or NPFF2 function has little effect on anxiety‐like behaviors, but attenuates hyperactivity in the open field and may affect morphine tolerance. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #12 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 9:45 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 39 - Student Author(s): Marlana Sheridan Hailey Krouse, Shannon Edward, Elizabeth Baker, Courtney Mitchell, Sarah Ross, Jenny Miller, Maureen Smith, Francesca Cain, Mary Whitehouse, Brian Robinson, Blake Tucker, Sarah Richards, Harry (Casey) Yarbrough, Erin Fleming Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): John Begeny Title of Presentation: A Comparison Study Between Two Reading Intervention Programs: Great Leaps K‐2 vs. Helping Early Literacy with Practice Strategies (HELPS) Less than 50% of fourth grade students lack the skills to be considered fluent readers. Reading is one of the most important skills that one should master because it is involved with every area of life. Deficits in reading fluency and comprehension transcend beyond childhood and well into adulthood. Statistics show that without proper reading skills, one is unable to succeed in any aspect of school as well as the hindrance on a person to complete tasks such as filling out a job application or even adequately drive. The objective of this study is to test the relative efficacy of two different intervention techniques, Great Leaps K‐2 and Helping Early Literacy with Practice Strategies (HELPS), in improving elementary kids’ reading fluency and comprehension. The Great Leaps Program is widely used across the United States to decrease the gap in reading inefficiency among children. The HELPS Program was created solely for this study. Second grade students were divided into a control group and a group to receive the HELPS Intervention. Students receiving the HELPS Intervention showed increases in reading fluency and comprehension. Across all measures, the HELPS Program was shown to be more effective than the Great Leaps K‐2 Program. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.51 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Parteek Singla Classification: Sophomore College or University: East Carolina University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Stephen Migueles Amy M. Berkley; Julia E. Rood; Mark Connors Title of Presentation: Flow Cytometric V‐Beta Repertoire Analysis of HIV‐Specific CD8+ T Cells in HIV+ Long‐ Term Nonprogressors and Patients with Progressive Infection The standard course of HIV infection towards AIDS involves a gradual decline of CD4+ T cell counts and increased viral loads over 8‐10 years. However, there exists a small subgroup of HIV+ individuals called Long‐Term Non‐Progressors (LTNP) or Elite Controllers who maintain viral loads less than 50 copies/mL of plasma and stable CD4+ T cell counts for greater than 20 years without antiretroviral therapy. Research of LTNP aims to determine how these rare individuals (<0.5% of HIV‐infected persons) are able to contain HIV. The HLA B*5701 class I allele is significantly over‐represented in cohorts of LTNP and the virus‐specific immune response in these patients is highly focused on B5701‐restricted epitopes. These findings and others support that HLA class I‐restricted CD8+ T cell responses mediate control over HIV replication. To better understand the components of and mechanisms underlying an effective HIV‐specific CD8+ T cell response, we screened a group of LTNP and progressors with HLA class I HIV tetrameric complexes, including those identifying

- 40 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium immunodominant B57‐restricted CD8+ T cells, and attempted to perform flow cytometric T‐cell receptor (TCR) Vb repertoire analysis of these HIV epitope‐specific cells using a commercially available kit. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #38 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 2:00 PM

Student Author(s): Norah Stevens‐Kittner Sarah Specht Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Hector Perez‐Cortez Title of Presentation: A Behavioral Study on the Effects of Whale‐Watching Boats on Grey Whales (Eschrichtius robustus) in Bahía Magdalena, Mexico Whale‐watching has become an increasingly popular tourist activity along the Baja California Peninsula of Mexico. However, some studies have reported that the presence of whale‐watching boats has a negative effect on various aspects of whale behavior. This study examines the effects of whale‐watching boats on the behavior of grey whales (Eschrichtius robustus) during February and March in Bahía Magdalena. A total of 107 observations were made on the effect of boats on whale behavior. A boat or vessel was defined to be 15 to 20 feet in length and was recorded as being either a whale‐watching vessel or a common fishing boat. It was concluded that in the presence of one or two vessels, whale behavior was not affected; however, due to a limited sample size, data collected on the effect of three or more vessels was found to be inconclusive. Further research would be beneficial in determining the effects of boat presence on whale behavior and may assist in further defining whale watching regulations and efforts in whale conservation and protection around the world. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.70 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Leslie Thompson Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Rachel Smith Title of Presentation: Developing a Tandem Knoevenagel Condensation‐Inverse Electron Demand Hetero Diels‐Alder Reaction for the Advanced Organic Chemistry Laboratory The purpose of this research project was to develop an advanced organic chemistry lab that would demonstrate the tandem Knoevenagel condensation‐Diels‐Alder cyclization. The aim was to develop a cost and class‐time efficient protocol using readily available reagents while acquiring a sufficient yield of pure product. To this end, identification of a suitable solvent for small‐scale recrystallization was undertaken and hexane was identified for this purpose. The reaction was run using various base catalysts in order to determine if the specialize catalyst EDDA was necessary for a

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 41 - high yield. Use of a variety of other catalysts including NH4OAc and water yielded complex product mixtures. Isolation of the product of the reaction when run in MeOH requires distillation of MeOH at rt which is time‐consuming and requires a rotary evaporator. All attempts at performing the reaction in a more volatile solvent, in the absence of solvent or in water were unsuccessful. Therefore, optimal conditions for this lab were identified to be MeOH, EDDA and recrystallization from hexane. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.57 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Morgan Thompson Allison Newell Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Nathan Mowa Title of Presentation: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA levels in the cervix are up regulated by lipopolyssacharide (LPS) in pregnant mice Cervical remodeling (CR) is one of the few biological processes that entails physiological inflammation, and can be significantly enhanced by inflammation‐inducing agents, such as lipopolyssacharide (LPS), a component of bacteria cell wall. Infection is one of the leading causes of preterm labor, and CR and inflammation are both closely associated with microvascular alterations. Of note, we recently identified and characterized expression of a potent regulator of the vasculature, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF signaling molecules in the cervix of pregnant and parturient rats. Our long term goal is to investigate whether the mechanism(s) underlying LPS‐enhanced CR involve VEGF and alters microvasculature. Here, we sought to characterize the pattern of VEGF mRNA expression in LPS‐treated pregnant mice using PCR. LPS dissolved in normal saline was administered intra‐cervically in a dose‐dependent manner to three groups of mice at day 12 of pregnancy (n=3 per group), namely vehicle only, 250ng and 300ng. The cervix was harvested 6 hrs later and levels of VEGF mRNA were analyzed by PCR. Our preliminary data revealed that LPS up regulated levels of VEGF mRNA in a dose‐dependent manner. These studies show that LPS‐induced preterm labor involves enhanced VEGF synthesis, which may lead to abnormal microvascular remodeling and mobilization and infiltration of vascular‐derived CR mediators. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.58 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 42 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Nicholas Walter Alexandria Rutkovsky Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Ece Karatan Title of Presentation: Polyamines Effect on Biofilm Formation Vibrio cholerae is a gram negative bacterium which causes the disease cholera in humans. It is an intestinal pathogen, transmitted though contaminated drinking water or food, which causes dehydration through diarrhea and can lead to death within 18 hours of the first symptom. Vibrio cholerae form biofilms in its natural environments which serve as a defense mechanism against toxins and other environmental stresses. These biofilms are made up of groups of bacteria which surround themselves in a protective exopolysaccharide matrix. Biofilm formation is very important to the survival of the bacteria in a human host as well as its natural environment and is the focus of our research. Polyamines are small aliphatic hydrocarbon molecules that have amine groups located throughout the molecule. The polyamine norspermidine in particular has been shown to increase biofilm formation in wild type Vibrio cholerae when added to the media it is grown in while spermidine has been shown to decrease biofilm formation. Our researched was based on understanding the mechanism of these effects by quantifying different polyamines in the cell, determining whether norspermidine and spermidine are being taken up into the cells and identifying the proteins responsible for this uptake. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.59 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Lindsay Willis Branyun Bullard, Michelle Godwin, Lane Guyton, Tamra Henderson, Clint Haywood Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): Tim Ritter Siva Mandjiny Title of Presentation: The Consequences of Space Flight on the Human Immune System Are there health risks associated with spending an extended period of time in reduced gravity? As space travel expands, people are spending more time in reduced gravity and the wellbeing of the human factor is critical. The human immune system is responsible for maintaining good health, and a key reaction within this system is the rate of antibody‐antigen formation. We report the status of a continuing study on the binding rate of human immune complexes when subjected to varying gravitational fields. The rate of absorbance is measured, at a wavelength of 280 nm, during the first 20 seconds of the reaction when human immunoglobulin G (IgG) binds with the Anti‐human immunoglobulin G (A‐IgG). In 1‐g laboratory experiments, a change in absorbance of 0.15 over the initial 20 seconds of reaction has been detected. The effects of gravity on the binding rates will be determined by comparing the absorbance rate of 1‐g ground samples to the rate measured when the process is repeated in 0‐g, Lunar‐g, Martian‐g, and 2‐g. These experiments are to be performed onboard NASA’s microgravity research aircraft. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #6 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 9:15 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 43 - Student Author(s): Hilary Wilson Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Asheville Major: BIOLOGY Mentor(s): David Clarke Title of Presentation: Eutrophication and Leaf Litter Diversity effect the Ecological Stoichiometry of Mangrove Detritivore, Melampus Coffeus The detritivorous snails, Melampus coffeus (Pulmonata: Ellobidae) are found in high densities (~40/m2), as adults, on the intertidal forest floor and export larvae into adjacent west‐Atlantic marine systems. Biomass via snails, larvae, feces, and increasing the decomposition of leaf tissues make M. coffeus important to nutrient cycling between marine and mangrove ecosystems. Through an REU grant and the Animal‐Plant Interaction lab at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Station, I investigated the effects of mangrove leaf litter diversity and long‐term Nitrogen enrichment on the ecological stoichiometry of M. coffeus. Materials were collected from a long‐term fertilization site on the Indian River Lagoon, Florida, and I found an in vitro difference between M. coffeus C:N when fed on seven mixes of three dominant tree species’ leaf litter (P < 0.001) and litter collected from fertilized and control areas (P = 0.004). Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #37 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 1:45 PM

BOTANY

Student Author(s): Catherine Hammond Qian Wu Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: BOTANY Mentor(s): Heike Winter‐Sederoff Title of Presentation: The Role of a Pleckstrin Homology Gene in the Response of Plant Roots to Gravity Stimulation. Human exploration of space and other planets will require that they take supplies of air, food and clean water with them. For long duration flights to other planets, resupply could be expensive and dangerous. Plants supply oxygen, and food on Earth, and could do the same for Astronauts during space exploration. The growth conditions in space would be very different compared to Earth – especially the force of gravity and intensity and composition of light. Plants sense light and gravity. Gravity is a constant force on Earth used by plants for their orientation. They orient their growth to maximize nutrient and water uptake by the roots and light exposure by the leaves. There is very little known about the molecular mechanism by which plants sense gravity and respond to it. It has been shown that several so called “second messenger” molecules are involved between sensing gravity and turning the signal into changes in gene expression that determine the changes in the direction of growth (Kimbrough et al. 2004). Several genes were identified that are regulated in response to gravity. My research focuses on the functional analysis of At5g05710, a gene which is up‐ regulated in the roots of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana after gravity stimulation but has no known function. Over the past few months, I have isolated several knockouts that are defective in the expression of this gene. In the process of comparing the knockout plants with wild type plants, a striking difference in the sugar sensitivity between the knockouts

- 44 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium and the WT plants became apparent. I am currently trying to characterize this gene and its role in gravitropism. (This work is supported by NC Space Grant). NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.22 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

BUSINESS & MARKETING EDUCATION

Student Author(s): Armah Shiancoe Tyler Rauch Classification: Senior College or University: Queens University Of Charlotte Major: BUSINESS & MARKETING EDUCATION Mentor(s): Steve Cox Title of Presentation: Organic T‐Shirts According to the Sustainable Cotton Project, "a single t‐shirt made from one hundred percent organic cotton saves one‐ third of a pound of synthetic fertilizers and farm chemicals." The purpose of this study was to understand how important the use of environmentally materials is to consumers. The study utilized an email survey technique in which over 150 potential customers were asked about the importance of environmentally friendly production in their decision process, and their willingness to pay a premium for such products. Results focused on differences in importance based on demographic characteristics and prior purchase behaviors. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.52 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Student Author(s): Jason Bartlett Classification: Junior College or University: Queens University Of Charlotte Major: BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Mentor(s): Steven Cox Title of Presentation: Market Research Project for Dunbrooks Publishing's: Death and the Maiden Dunbrooks Publishing's Death and the Maiden is a book designed for computer viewing. This book comes with the special addition of an accompanying musical score built into the product. Dunbrooks believes that the addition of

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 45 - musical accompaniment will create an almost movie‐like feel to the novel. The purpose of this market research project is to help Dunbrooks assess whether or not this product is desirable. Several market research techniques will be employed such as in depth interviews, two focus groups (pre‐demo and then post‐demo of the product), and an email questionnaire. Using the data from these studies, it will be determined if Dunbrooks needs to make changes to its product offering in order to better reach the desired customer base. It is my hypothesis for this study that, while the book and the music are both very interesting, the format in which they are presented is not intuitive, will damage the immersion of the novel and will ultimately turn off the target customer. I hope to find that people will be more likely to buy the product if the interface is made more user‐friendly. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.2 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Cassie Erwin Classification: Junior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Mentor(s): Lorrie Willey Title of Presentation: Societal tattle tales: The business of public tips and law enforcement As in all populated and diverse societies, crime detection and the punishment of those who commit crimes is a major concern of federal and local governments in the United States. Small local law enforcement agencies, and even those larger agencies in metropolitan areas, struggle to identify and capture those who commit crimes. In an effort to expand their ability to identify suspected criminals organizations like Crime Stoppers USA, Community Watch Programs, and show like “Unsolved Mysteries” and “America’s Most Wanted” have brought criminal law enforcement to the homes of average citizens. The tips and information provided by these people pay an important role for law enforcement. Or do they? What prompted the notion that the American public could work with law enforcement to find those charged with crimes? What do law enforcement agencies think of these systems? Most importantly, are these organizations and shows effective in assisting law enforcement in carrying out its mission? This research will investigate the beginnings of these programs and will discuss their effectiveness in identifying criminals, punishing those responsible for crimes, and in deterring crime. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #41 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 2:45 PM

Student Author(s): Afton Rogers Brian Schroeder Classification: Senior College or University: Queens University Of Charlotte Major: BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Mentor(s): Steven Cox

- 46 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Title of Presentation: AN EXAMINATION OF THE IMPORTANCE OF ATMOSPHERICS ON CUSTOMER ATTITUDES AND DECISION TO PURCHASE This study was designed to examine the importance of non product related store elements on a customer’s attitude toward the store and decision to purchase. For the study a local jewelry boutique in Charlotte, NC, Cleopatra’s European Accessories, was chosen as the test venue. Individuals who had no prior experience with the boutique, but were purchasers of jewelry, were asked to visit the store. After the visit, they were asked to participate in one of three data collection methods, in‐depth interviews, focus groups, or an email survey. The study examined the effect of several non product related independent variables on a subject’s attitude toward the store and likelihood to purchase. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.64 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Student Author(s): Zahrah Taylor Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Asheville Major: BUSINESS MANAGEMENT Mentor(s): Mary Lynn Manns Title of Presentation: The Climate Crisis and Change Leadership: Insights into Persuading the Skeptics These are times of visible change in the environment and the climate, from decreasing biodiversity to increasingly severe weather patterns. However, there is disagreement on whether these changes constitute a “crisis” and whether humans have an impact. Those who believe in a human component will be more likely to take actions to slow the crisis, while the remaining skeptics still need to be convinced. Proponents who wish to convince decision‐makers of the climate crisis and the human influence will be more effective if they understand the sources of conflicting climate information and the role it plays in creating skepticism. In addition, an appreciation for the public’s current views will help change leaders know where to begin their argument towards persuading people to adopt new views. This study investigates the opinions of people towards climate change, from influential state climatologists to the young generation who will be most impacted by a climate crisis. The results provide climate change leaders with insights that will allow them to become more influential agents of change. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #40 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 2:30 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 47 - CHEMISTRY

Student Author(s): Jennifer Abelin Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): D. Allan Butterfield Rena A. Sowell Title of Presentation: Detection of immune‐related oxidative stress in an Alzheimer's disease model Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the presence of reactive oxygen species and the ability of an organism to neutralize or repair damage done by these molecules. It plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of many diseases including Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and Alzheimer’s disease. Oxidative stress is also associated with immunosenescence, the aging of the immune system, and may contribute to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by promoting amyloid deposition in the brain. In order to investigate immune‐related oxidative stress, immunochemical techniques were used to assess protein oxidation in the immune system of a wild‐type mouse model and an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model. In addition, redox proteomics, a combination of two‐dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectroscopy analysis, were used to identify the proteins that are affected by immune‐related oxidative stress in these mouse models. Identification of such proteins will bring a better understanding of the relationship between immunosenescence and Alzheimer’s disease. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.1 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Ahamad Abuadas Ryan Oliver Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Asheville Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Herman Holt Title of Presentation: Methodology Towards the Synthesis of Potentially Cytotoxic Heterocycles Several combretastatin A‐4 (CA‐4) analogs were synthesized and isolated. The classic Wittig reaction was used to synthesize these CA‐4 analogs. The specificity of the cis‐geometry during the Wittig reaction was moderated by the choice of base and temperature, while flash chromatography offered a valuable method towards isolating pure cis‐ stilbenes. The ability to isolate the cis‐isomers provided the opportunity to focus on the aziridination of the CA‐4 analogs. There is no literature data on aziridine analogs of CA‐4, as well as, their cytotoxicity towards tumor cells or tubulin inhibition. While several aziridination methods were examined, none provided the desired aziridinated CA‐4 analogs. It appeared that the electron donating effect of the trimethoxy A‐ring of the stilbene inhibits aziridination. Methods such as the copper catalyzed aziridination using PhINNs as the nitrene source and also chloramine‐T as the nitrene source were used. While these methods generated the aziridine product from stilbene, the aziridine analogs of CA‐4 were elusive. In addition, the synthesis of stilbene triazolines was unsuccessful, but is still under investigation. The electronic effects of the aziridination of substituted stilbenes and progress towards the synthesis of triazolines will be

- 48 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium discussed. The ability to isolate cis‐stilbenes selectively provided us a valuable methodology to move towards the synthesis and isolation of indole analogs of CA‐4, which will be examined for their cytotoxicity. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.3 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Stefanie Boenig Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Nicole Bennett Title of Presentation: Synthesis of Biodiesel from Algae The world’s oil supply is rapidly decreasing while the demand is simultaneously growing. The effects with this combined with the negative impacts fossil fuels have had on the environment create a strong need for alternative fuels. Biodiesel is an attractive option because it is renewable and environmentally friendly. The primary route for the synthesis of biodiesel is transesterification of triglycerides and methanol using a base catalyst, which can supply over a 90% yield of the methyl esters that are biodiesel. Some types of microalgae have an oil content that is high enough to be 200 times more effective than the leading crops currently being used. The synthesis of biodiesel via transesterification using algae as a feedstock will be analyzed. The algae reactants and methyl ester products will be analyzed using HNMR, GC, MS, and HFRR. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.5 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Bethany Carter Justin Arnold, Maegan Canha Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Carol Babyak Shea Tuberty Title of Presentation: Development of a Solid Phase Extraction and HPLC Method to Quantify Estrogens in Wastewater Effluent The release of pharmaceuticals into the environment creates many negative effects on ecological systems. For example, estrogenic compounds such as β‐estradiol, ethynylestradiol, and estrone are known endocrine disrupters. Solid phase extraction (SPE) was used to extract these estrogens from water samples, and HPLC with UV detection at 230 nm was to quantify the concentrations in the extract. The SPE sorbent was an Oasis hydrophilic‐lipophilic balance (HLB) glass cartridge. HPLC separation was accomplished using a Luna C18 column from Phenomenex and a mobile phase of acetonitrile: methanol: water (50:11:39) buffered to a pH of 3.4 using formic acid. To optimize the SPE method, the conditioning, washing, and elution solvents were modified and the flow rate of the sample through the cartridge was

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 49 - decreased. Spiked de‐ionized water samples were extracted to test the protocol. Before optimization low percent recoveries were obtained (35.6‐75.7%), and after modifications to the SPE method percent recoveries over 100% were obtained (100.5‐181.9%). It is possible that the vacuum manifold used for the extraction was contaminated with analytes. Further optimization of the SPE procedure is in progress. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.13 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Ashley Clark Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Ian Davis Title of Presentation: Investigation of EWS‐FLI1 Oncogene Complex in Ewing's Sarcoma Ewing’s Sarcoma is characterized by a chromosomal translocation which leads to the expression of a chimeric EWS‐FLI1 oncogene. Although the importance of this protein has been well documented, the mechanism by which chimerism of FLI activates it as an oncogene is not fully understood. Our strategy involves identification of interacting partners through the use of tandem affinity purification. Here we investigate conditions to optimize tandem purification of EWS, FLI1, and EWS‐FLI1 chimeric protein. The identification of unique and common interacting proteins may potentially assist in the development of a more specific biologically‐directed therapies. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #45 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 3:45 PM

Student Author(s): Shantakiya Cohen Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Brett Taubman Title of Presentation: Multi‐elemental Trace Analysis of Shen Nü Guo Dried Tomatoes by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP‐OES) was used to quantify the trace concentrations of some metal compounds (Al, Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn, and Pb) in Shen Nü Guo dried tomato samples. These tomatoes come from the large autonomous region of China, known as Xinjiang, and may have possible health benefits due to the presence of lycopene, a carotenoid that has shown an inverse relationship to certain cancers. However, no work has been done yet to quantify the metals present in the dried fruit. Initial samples were digested in a 50% nitric acid solution and run through the ICP‐OES to quantify the metals present. Further samples were digested using a MARSXpress microwave digester in 70% nitric acid, in preparation for the ICP‐OES. Preliminary results confirm the presence of Al, Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn, and Pb in the samples. Ongoing work will be done to quantify the concentrations of the metals in the tomato samples. Type of Presentation: Exhibit #E1.1 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 50 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Donna Gilchrist Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Huaibin Cai Loukia Parisiadouu Title of Presentation: Genotyping Transgenic Mice Mutations in the LRRK2 gene account for a significant proportion of autosomal‐dominant and some late onset Parkinson Disease (PD), the second most common neuro‐degenerative disease. Because almost every gene in the human genome has a counterpart in the mouse, transgenic mice models provide an invaluable research tool to evaluate the roles of genes in mammalian biology. Researchers have developed thousands of mouse strains with mutations that mimic those seen in PD and other human genetic disorders. Understanding LRRK2 mutations can lead to the discovery of methods to manipulate this kinase in hopes of switching it off, thus effectively switching off PD. LRRK2 mice were genetically engineered from previously geno‐typed heterozygous (±) transgenic mice to produce LRRK2 Knockout (KO) mice to be used in several other research projects. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.19 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Benjamin Gray Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Alexander Schwab Title of Presentation: Synthesis of an Elastomer by use of Ruthenium‐Coordinated Macroligands Pyridine‐centered ligand terminated poly(dimethylsiloxane), PDMS, chains will be cross‐linked by ruthenium (II) coordination centers. These cross‐links will form an elastic network. The elastomers should have interesting photo‐ physical properties. Already one macro‐ligand has been synthesized and the synthesis of a second macro‐ligand is nearing completion. Farther characterization must be done before attempts are made to form the complexes. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.20 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 51 - Student Author(s): Edward Hooper Brittany Graham Classification: Senior College or University: Fayetteville State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Cevdet Akbay Title of Presentation: Determination of Partial Specific Volume of Novel Gemini Surfactants Surfactants are organic compounds that contain a polar hydrophilic “head” group and a hydrophobic carbon “tail” region. When a surfactant exceeds a certain concentration in solution, they aggregate to form micelles. Surfactants have a wide range of applications such as in household products, gene therapy or targeted drug delivery systems. To compare the structural flexibility of various novel mixed surfactants, their partial specific volumes were measured. This was accomplished by preparing various synthesized mixed and conventional surfactants in deionized water, and recording their densities at various temperatures using a high‐precision digital DMA 4500 density meter. Finally, using a graph of weight fraction of the solvent (W) as the abscissa versus the inverse of density (1/ ρ) as the ordinate, the partial specific volume of the surfactant can be determined from the value of the y‐intercept. By doing this, we can understand the structural nature and flexibility of these vesicles, thus expanding pharmaceutical research in the field of drug delivery. In the present study, the mixed surfactants were compared with their conventional monomeric counterparts and larger PSV values were observed with conventional micelles as compared to mixed surfactants. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #44 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 3:30 PM

Student Author(s): Stephanie Hughes Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Carol Babyak Title of Presentation: Investigation of Possible Pollutants Leading to the Degradation of the Pigeon River Watershed The industrial and agricultural development of Haywood County in western North Carolina has resulted in substantial growth and economic success. The benefits of growth have led to the degradation of many local waterways. Six sampling sites throughout the county were chosen, water and sediment samples from each site were analyzed. A portable meter was used to take field data. Prepared sediment samples were taken from each site for use in sequential extraction and microwave digest methods. Utilizing the ICP‐OES, water samples, sequential extraction digests and microwave digests were analyzed for heavy metals concentration. An ion chromatograph was used to analyze each sample for chloride, nitrate, sulfate and phosphate. Results reveal higher temperature and conductivity at the sampling site below the paper mill on the Pigeon River as well as increased Cl‐ concentration. Metals analysis reveals higher concentrations of copper, aluminum, manganese and mercury with particularly high concentrations below the paper mill and at Hyatt Creek. Sequential extraction data indicates that manganese is among the more bioavailable metals, the majority of analyzed metals are not bioavailable to species. In this project the possible pollutants causing the degradation of the Pigeon River Watershed are investigated. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.24 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 52 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Kristyn Jackson Charity Epley Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Michael Ramey Title of Presentation: Tolanes as Precursors for Controlled Release Fragrances The long term objective of this research is to synthesize and develop a set of functionalized hexaphenylbenzenes capable of the controlled release of volatile fragrant molecules. Catalytic amounts of cobalt octacarbonyl are used in a catalytic cyclization reaction with appropriately substituted 4,4'‐diphenylacetylenes (tolanes) to form hexaphenylbenzene molecules. Efforts have focused on optimizing the conditions and yields for production of two tolane molecules substituted in the 4,4' positions with both phenethyl and citronellyl ester groups, respectively. Synthesis of both tolanes was accomplished using a one‐pot Sonogashira coupling reaction first reported by Grieco et al. The ester tolanes can subsequently be cyclized using a cobalt catalyst into a hexaphenylbenzene which will posses 6 functionalized ester arms capable of undergoing hydrolysis to release volatile fragrant alcohol molecules. The solid tolane molecules were isolated and purified. Head space gas chromatography studies were performed to monitor the release of the alcohol species as an indication of the release characteristics that may be present in the final hexaphenylbenzene molecules. Synthetic progress towards these materials is offered in this presentation. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.26 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Thiesen Jacob G. Zhang, D. Cox Classification: Senior College or University: Lenoir‐Rhyne College Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): William Hildebrand Title of Presentation: Using Mass Spectrometry to Understand the Peptide Binding Properties of Macaca fascicularis MHC Molecule A*2502 Macaques are a model for human infection and immune response. During infection of a cell, pathogen derived peptides are presented by class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) to cytotoxic lymphocytes (CTL). CTL specifically recognize pathogen derived peptides and then kill infected cells. The goals of this study were to (1) understand the peptides presented by Mafa‐A*2502 through direct mass spectrometric analysis, and (2) to empower computer algorithms so that Mafa‐A*2502 presented peptides can be predicted. Methodologically, a vector containing the Mafa‐ A*2502 gene was transfected into and secreted from a mammalian B cell line. Mafa‐A*2502 molecules were concentrated, purified, and then boiled in acid to denature the molecule and release the peptide. This denatured protein mixture was filtered through a 3kDa cut‐off filter to isolate the peptides. The peptides were fractionated by HPLC, and peptides in the HPLC fractions were sequenced by MS/MS. The pre‐fractionated pool of peptides were also sequenced by Edman analysis. More than 50 individual Mafa‐A*2502 peptides have been characterized by MS/MS. Peptides presented by Mafa‐A*2502 prefer a proline residue at P2, a phenylalanine residue at the C‐terminus. These individual sequences were utilized to iteratively train a predictive Mafa‐A*2502 algorithm and to predict peptide epitopes presented by Mafa‐A*2502. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.34 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 53 - Student Author(s): Sarah Locklear Classification: Sophomore College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Siva Mandjiny Cornelia Tirla Title of Presentation: Sonication‐Driven Transesterification Reaction for the Production of Biodiesel There is an immediate need to develop the technology for the efficient production of alternative fuel sources. Biodiesel production has been shown to be a partial solution to the worldwide energy shortage. Presently biodiesel is being produced via transesterification reaction of waste vegetable oil in a conventional batch process using potassium hydroxide as a catalyst. This present work has demonstrated that the transesterification reaction can be driven by sonication without any addition of heat. Results show that the time of the reaction is reduced significantly compared to the conventional method. Also in this work, a new technique was developed to determine the rate of conversion of waste vegetable oil to biodiesel by the calorific value method. This method determines the optimal reaction time thus potentially improving production efficiency. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.44 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Iner Lowery Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Meredith Storms Title of Presentation: The Influence of Cosmetic Treatments on the Stability of Dextromethorphan The influence of commercially available cosmetic treatments on the stability of dextromethorphan was studied by incubating the drug with a bleaching product and hair dye at room temperature. HPLC was employed to determine the concentration of dextromethorphan using a phenyl column (4.6 x 150 mm) with a mobile phase of 80:20% v/v 6.25 mM sodium phosphate buffer (pH 3.0) and methanol at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min with UV detection at 226 nm. Forced degradation studies have been carried out on dextromethorphan by exposure to heat and hydrogen peroxide for different time periods to identify potential degradation peaks in an effort to develop a stability‐indicating HPLC assay. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #25 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 11:15 AM

- 54 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Nick Merrill Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Eric Allain Title of Presentation: Cell Free Fuel Ethanol Production Ethanol is a more ecologically sound fuel than gasoline being both renewable and cleaner burning. However, if ethanol is to be economically competitive with gasoline, then its production process must be highly efficient. Theoretical work has suggested that a cell‐free process, consisting of the twelve enzymes involved in the yeast anaerobic glycolysis pathway, is capable of making ethanol much faster than a microorganism based fermentation. This and other potential advantages have suggested that a cell‐free process may improve the economy of fuel ethanol production. Progress of the reactions was followed by monitoring ethanol produced as well as observing phosphorylated metabolite profiles using 31P NMR. Correlation of the results to theoretical predictions will be detailed. Preliminary investigations have been conducted by employing a mathematical model of the twelve enzymatic reactions involved in the production of ethanol from glucose. Initial results have indicated that it’s possible to substantially increase the rate of ethanol production relative to the conventional microorganism based process by changing the enzyme levels. An algorithm was developed that resulted in optimization of these enzyme levels to yield a maximum ethanol production rate with a minimum of total enzyme. We are currently working to demonstrate this concept in the laboratory. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.46 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Kimberly Moore Cynthia Sherman Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Siva Mandjiny Cornelia Tirla and Len Holmes Title of Presentation: STUDIES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ETHANOL FROM SWEET POTATO REMNANTS Ethanol can be produced from large variety of biomass materials. The purpose of this project is to develop a protocol for the production of ethanol starting from sweet potato waste. As a starting point, the starch was hydrolyzed in acidic condition and a glucose solution was obtained. For comparative study, the enzymatic hydrolysis in presence of amylase produced in batch by Aspergillus niger was started. The enzyme product has been partially characterized. The raw material is also a rich source of b‐carotene, a food supplement used in the cellular biosynthesis of the vitamin A. As part of this project protocols were developed to extract this valued added product. In conclusion this research addresses the increasing demand for alternative sources of energy and demonstrates complementary uses of agricultural waste biomass. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.49 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 55 - Student Author(s): Kimberly Moseley Rhonda L. McClure Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Meredith Storms Title of Presentation: Sampling and Analytical Variability Associated with the Determination of the Total Anthocyanin Content in Bilberry Capsules Anthocyanins are the active component in several herbal supplements such as bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), which was used in the 12th century to induce menstruation and during World War II to improve night vision. Currently bilberry is generally regarded as a safe treatment for diarrhea, varicose veins, venous insufficiency, and other circulatory problems; however, high doses of bilberry leaf or extract are considered unsafe due to possible toxic side effects. Despite the label claim that the product is “standardized”, previous studies indicate a noteworthy variation in the total anthyocyanin content among different capsules. To assess the within capsule variability, the spectrophotometry method will be employed to determine the total anthocyanin content in aliquots of the powdered bilberry extract from individual capsules. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.51 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Derek Routhier William Benner III Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Carol Babyak Title of Presentation: Chemical Monitoring of Boone Creek: An Urbanized Headwaters Stream Boone Creek is classified as a class C trout stream according to the NC DENR. Due to urbanization, the campus section of the creek has become unsuitable for trout life. Over the past three years, the Chemistry, Geology, Physics, and Astronomy Departments have collaborated to monitor various parameters including flow, temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen ,alkalinity, acidity, conductivity, iron, manganese, copper, lead, zinc, calcium, magnesium, sodium and sulfate concentrations. Recently, metal concentrations have been determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES) instead of flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). It has been found that sodium values peak during the winter months due to road salting. Copper, iron, and sulfate concentrations are below the NC DENR action levels of 7 ppb, 1 ppm, and 10 ppm, respectively. Manganese concentrations are usually below action level of 0.2 ppm. Zinc and lead concentrations are below the LOD of the flame AAS, but will be analyzed using the ICP‐OES. Stream temperatures are highest in the summer months, exceeding 20°C. Sediment analysis indicates that barium, copper and lead could be biologically available. High concentrations of trace metals have been observed in storm water run‐off from the stadium parking lot. It also seems that pervious pavement has no advantage over impervious pavement when extracting metals from the run‐off. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.46 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 56 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Alexandria Rutkovsky Nick Walters Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Claudia Cartaya‐Marin Ece Karatan Title of Presentation: Polyamine Sythesis and Transport Systems in Vibrio cholerae Polyamine transport and synthesis systems are important in many functions of Vibrio cholerae; however, very little research has been done on polyamine transport and synthesis systems in this organism. In this study, we have determined the levels of different polyamines that are present in V. cholerae. The levels of polyamines found in cells were quantified using HPLC analysis, and were compared to standard samples of varying concentrations. Norspermidine, a polyamine that is important to biofilm formation, has a putative synthesis enzyme and two uptake proteins. We present evidence that the putative spermidine binding protein, PotD1, is responsible for both spermidine and norspermidine uptake. The levels of norspermidine and spermidine found in the cell could have a possible correlation with biofilm formation. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.48 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM‐4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Ryan Sturdivant Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Libby Puckett Title of Presentation: Indirect Determination of Enzyme Kinetics Using Capillary Electrophoresis with Chemiluminescence Detection Electrophorectically mediated microanalysis (EMMA) is used in this research as a method of studying enzyme kinetics in conjunction with chemiluminescence detection. Capillary electrophoresis (CE) has many advantages over related separation methods, some of these being high separation power, selectivity, and versatility in the types of compounds that can be analyzed. Chemiluminescence will be used instead of other methods because it contains little or no background signal, gives high sensitivity, high quantum yield, and requires no excitation source. The chemiluminescent reaction that will be used involves luminol, which reacts with oxidants to produce an excited state molecule that emits light on relaxation. An instrument that interfaces CE with chemiluminescence detection has been constructed to carry out these experiments. Currently, the system is being validated by injecting aliquots of luminol directly onto the column. CE will be later used for on‐column mixing of enzyme and substrate in order to study the kinetics of physiologically significant enzymes that produce hydrogen peroxide. Glucose oxidase will be used as the model enzyme in this study and luminol will be used to detect the production of hydrogen peroxide and indirectly measure the enzyme’s activity. The reaction will produce a flash of light that will be measured by a photon counter in a post‐column reactor. The electropherograms produced from the enzyme injection will have a plateau shape that is indicative of the rate of the reaction. The results of this study will ultimately lead to a faster approach for determining enzyme kinetics. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.54 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 57 - Student Author(s): Andy P. Tran Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Richard L. Blanton Seung‐Boem Hong (National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute) Title of Presentation: Regulation of TGF‐beta signaling genes by the BHD tumor suppressor gene Birt‐Hogg‐Dube (BHD) syndrome is an autosomal dominant hereditary disease described by fibrofolliculoma, lung cysts and pneumothorax. Mutations in the BHD gene, that is located on chromosome 17 (17p11.2), are responsible for the development the disease. To analyze the biological function of BHD, we used model cell lines derived from a BHD patient: UOK257, a BHD‐null cell line and UOK257‐2, to which the wild‐type BHD gene has been introduced. We compared their gene expressions using cDNA microarray and found differentially expressed genes including the genes involved in TGF‐beta signaling, such as TGF‐beta 2 (TGFB2), Thrombospondin 1 (THBS1) and activin A (INHBA). Not only TGFB2, INHBA and THBS1 expression, but also SMAD2/3 phosphorylation were down‐regulated in the BHD renal tumors, suggesting inhibition of TGF‐beta signaling in the BHD tumors. In addition, morphological and immunocytochemical analysis showed that UOK257 and UOK257‐2 cells have epithelial and mesenchymal cell characteristics, respectively. Since it is well known that TGF‐beta signaling is crucial for epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), BHD is likely to be involved in EMT by regulating TGF‐beta signaling genes. We are currently investigating the possible involvement of BHD in TGF‐beta induced EMT. This study showed inhibition of TGF‐beta signaling in the BHD tumors and regulation of the key molecules, such as TGFB2, INHBA and THBS1 in TGF‐beta signaling by BHD. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #43 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 3:15 PM

Student Author(s): Ryan Vary Brad Sleptesz, Yonghui Tian Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Rob Whitnell Miklos Kertesz Title of Presentation: Searching for Unusual C‐C Bonds by Modeling the Graphite to Diamond sp2‐sp3 Transition Mechanistically with ab initio Calculations and Plots Based on the CSD It is well known that single C‐C bonds have bond lengths on the order of 1.52 Ǻ. However, it is of great interest to theoretical chemists in locating C‐C bonds that are 'stretched,' on the order of 1.7 Ǻ to 2.0 Ǻ. ab initio calculations are used to research these long C‐C 'bonds' around the transition state in the Graphite to Diamond (GD) transition. The sp2 to sp3 hybridization change in the GD Transition changes the intermolecular distance between the planes of graphite (3.35 Ǻ). The distance between the planes decreases to 1.54 Ǻ as bonds are formed between the C atoms resulting in the sp3 hybridization of diamond. The transition state of this 'zipper' mechanism is of great interest because it is believed that long C‐C intermolecular/bond contacts exist. Long C‐C bonds are believed to exist in carbon nanotube vacancies that could be used for molecular storage. Three coordinates are monitored during the transition as a function of intermolecular distance (Q): bond length (r), energy (E) and bond angle (theta). Three reaction coordinate diagrams are then generated that can be used to explain this mechanism and the transition state structures. This research answers the following question: How do r, theta, and E change as a function of Q during the graphite to diamond transition? Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.72 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 58 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Rhea Williams Hannah Ainsworth and Tiara Murphy Classification: Senior College or University: Salem College Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Nita Eskew Title of Presentation: American Ginseng: The Quest for Ginsenosides American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a medicinal plant belonging to the family araliaceae. The biologically active compounds responsible for its therapeutic attributes are terpene saponins, known as ginsenosides. The presence of varying types of ginsenosides link ginseng to numerous medicinal properties, such as enhancement of learning and memory, reduction of anxiety and stress, and reduction of cancer and diabetic risks. Such credited benefits have led to an increased demand for ginseng roots. Unfortunately, a slow growth rate of approximately five to eight years and high demand of the roots has resulted in great depletion of wild ginseng populations. To preserve the already threatened American ginseng, less invasive harvesting methods should be considered. One research objective aims to determine whether ginseng leaves contain ginsenoside concentrations comparable to those found in the roots, as harvesting leaves would preserve ginseng plants for future years and harvests. Additionally, this project seeks to compare ginsenoside concentrations in farm cultivated and woods grown ginseng. Plant specimens were collected from cultivated and woods grown plots. Ginsenosides were then extracted and analyzed using high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). Our results will be presented. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.62 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Isaac Wilson Josh Marsh Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Nicole Bennett Title of Presentation: Microwave Synthesis of Biodiesel: Yield and Lubricity of Fatty Acid Methyl/Ethyl Esters Blends Methyl and ethyl ester biodiesel blends were prepared in the CEM Discover™ microwave reactor via the transesterification of a variety of animal fats and vegetable oils in base‐catalyzed conditions. The yields and lubricity were compared to those reported for the synthesis of canola oil blends using conventional heating methods. We observed a 1.5:1 ratio of methyl to ethyl ester when soy oil was reacted with a 1:1 ratio of methanol to ethanol (50°C, open system, run time = 1.00min). This result was repeated with several other refined oils (canola, peanut, used peanut and mixed waste) and unrefined fats (poultry and pork). Relative lubricity of the methyl esters, ethyl esters and methyl/ethyl ester blends was determined using a High Frequency Reciprocating Rig. As expected the trend for wear scar values was as follows: ethyl esters

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 59 - Student Author(s): Darren Zhu Jeremy Niskala, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Classification: H.S. Senior College or University: North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Major: CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Myra Halpin Wei You Title of Presentation: Synthesis and Characterization of Self‐Assembled Monolayer Formation of Isocyanides on Ferromagnetic Thin Films As the demand for more efficient data storage increases, research in spintronic technology has rapidly expanded. Specifically, organic self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) have shown great potential to be an easy and inexpensive mechanism for bridging ferromagnetic interfaces to form a novel type of molecular spintronics. In this study, SAM formation of isocyanides on ferromagnetic thin films (FTFs) was completed and characterized using contact angle measurements, cyclic voltammetry, and reflective‐absorption infrared spectroscopy (RAIRS) to evaluate the viability of isocyanides as a molecular wire between FTFs. Evaporated FTFs (100.0 nm nickel/cobalt/iron) on two different adhesion layers (chromium/titanium) were placed into 1 mM ethanolic isocyanide (hexadecaneisocyanide/(11‐ Isocyanounedcyl)ferrocene) solutions under atmospheric, glovebox, and novel electroreduction conditions. Contact angle measurements show high contact angles (~90‐110°) for nickel and cobalt under glovebox and electroreduced conditions. Cyclic voltammetry found high SAM surface coverages (>1.0x10E‐9 mol/cm2) on electroreduced cobalt and nickel with Ti adhesion layers. RAIRS was unable to determine the specific isocyanide binding mechanism, but confirmed that greatest SAM formation occurred via electroreduction, followed by glovebox and atmosphere. Overall, this study supports that FTFs, especially electroreduced nickel and cobalt, can experience high isocyanide SAM formation, indicating that isocyanide SAMs show great promise of implementation in molecular spintronics. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #42 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 3:00 PM

- 60 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium CHEMISTRY & BIOCHEMISTRY

Student Author(s): Phillip Behrns Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Greensboro Major: CHEMISTRY & BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Norman Chiu Title of Presentation: Distributions of MALDI “Hot Spots” in DNA‐Matrix Co‐Crystals The key to the measurements of a specific analyte by using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) is the formation of suitable sample‐matrix co‐crystals. In this study, imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) was used to determine the measurable locations within the sample‐matrix co‐crystals, known as “hot spots”. An 18mer DNA oligo was used as a model. For preparing DNA samples, the two most commonly used MALDI matrices are 3‐hydroxypicolinic acid (3‐HPA) and 2’,4’,6’‐trihydroxyacetophenone (THAP). By using either 3‐HPA or THAP, DNA samples were prepared by using both thin‐layer and dried droplet methods. A direct investigation of hot spots in lateral and depth dimensions within the DNA‐matrix co‐crystals were conducted without the use of any fluorescent or radioactive labeling. We have confirmed that the distribution of hot spots with 3‐HPA were along the circular boundary of the sample regardless of sample preparation method and crystal appearance. Furthermore, Na+ adducts also occurred in the same locations. While this hot spot effect is known, this is the first attempt to use IMS to learn the distributions of MALDI hot spots. This information will allow us to further improve high throughput measurements and quantification with MALDI‐TOF MS. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.6 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Eric Butter Classification: Sophomore College or University: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill Major: CHEMISTRY & BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Steven Clark Title of Presentation: SOCIO‐ECONOMIC DIABETES RISK FACTORS IN CLEVELAND, MISSISSIPPI Rapid increases in Type‐2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) rates in recent times and obvious regional disparities suggest that T2DM is a problem complicated beyond genetics: to fully understand this epidemic, factors both socioeconomic and cultural must still be more fully explored. Few regions provide a better environment for such a study into racial, economic, and cultural diabetes predictors than Cleveland, Mississippi. We believe that incidence and severity of T2DM over time in Cleveland is related to (perhaps preventable) socioeconomic factors including income, education, and neighborhood. Incidence, severity, and control of T2DM over time was determined by chart review and/or interview of diagnosed diabetes patients at Cleveland Medical Clinic. Relevant diabetes markers include weight/BMI, blood pressure, lipid levels, urine micro‐albumin, and percentage hemoglobin A1c. These markers were related over time (≤ 3 years) to age, sex, gender, neighborhood, payment method, average annual income, education, our assessment of diabetes knowledge, access to diabetes education, access to proper treatment, dietary and exercise habits. Preliminary Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) results on 503 patients do indicate that socioeconomic factors including Medicaid status, understanding of diabetes, and frequency of check‐ups have a significant effect on T2DM control, although analysis data is on‐going. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #26 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 61 - Student Author(s): Aaron Locklear Tiffany Scott Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: CHEMISTRY & BIOCHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Cornelia Tirla Sivanadane Mandjiny Title of Presentation: Biodiesel Production from Fatty Acids using Solid acid Catalyst Currently biodiesel is produced through the transesterification of waste vegetable oil using methanol and potassium hydroxide. Potassium hydroxide, once used in the reaction, is eliminated with the waste products. This can prove to be an expensive method of producing biodiesel as potassium hydroxide is not recovered from the wastes and a new batch must be added for subsequent reactions. This also sparks the debate as to whether or not biodiesel is a cost‐effective and efficient fuel source when compared to fossil fuels. Solid acid catalysts are a possible solution to this problem. Removal of a solid acid catalyst is easier and the starting material is fatty acids instead of oil. This research will describe the synthesis of biodiesel from fatty acids in the presence of solid acid catalyst. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.34 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

COMMUNICATION SCIENCES & DISORDERS

Student Author(s): Caitlin Webb Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: COMMUNICATION SCIENCES & DISORDERS Mentor(s): Heather Clark Title of Presentation: Orofacial Strength of Young and Old Healthy Adults Adequate functioning of the orofacial musculature is critical for successful speech production as well as for chewing and swallowing. Orofacial weakness, associated with many neuromuscular conditions, may contribute to speech and swallowing difficulties. To appropriately identify weakness in individuals experiencing speech and swallowing difficulties, normative data describing typical performance of young and old healthy individuals is needed. Previous work describing lingual elevation has yielded mixed findings regarding whether older individuals exhibit reduced strength relative to young adults. This session describes the objective methods of assessing tongue, lip, and cheek strength and defines the range of performance of young (age 18‐30) and old (age over 60) participants. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.60 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 62 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium COMMUNICATIONS

Student Author(s): Margaret Allen Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: COMMUNICATIONS Mentor(s): Jean Dehart Title of Presentation: Analysis of Persuasion Techniques in the Geico Insurance Campaigns My paper is an analysis of how Geico Insurance persuades their consumers to buy their product. I researched their competitors as well as different theories and strategies they use to influence the consumer that their product is the best. I researched about how they use humor and several different campaigns to clutter the television airwaves. My paper is how the act of persuasion can have a major effect on a consumer and the process of how this insurance company markets its product. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #51 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 2:15 PM

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Student Author(s): Bellanov Apilli JeeHyun Hwang Classification: Junior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: COMPUTER SCIENCE Mentor(s): Tao Xie Title of Presentation: Combinatorial Testing of Access Control Policies Security issues are critical for web applications deployed over the Internet. Access control policies are widely used to counteract these issues. A policy is specified to govern whether access is granted or denied. To ensure the correctness of a policy, rigorous policy testing can be conducted. In policy testing, a test input is a request, and a test output is its response against a policy. Policy testers can manually check whether a response is expected. In this paper, we propose combinatorial test generation, where test requests are generated on t‐way combinations of attribute values considering their interactions. We show the effectiveness of combinatorial test generation by measuring fault detection capability of its generated output compared to two existing techniques, random and target‐driven test generation. Target‐driven test generation requires exclusive access to policies, whereas combinatorial and random generations do not. Accessing policy rules directly had a great effect on the results. For single‐valued requests, our results show that our approach can outperform random test generation, but since our approach does not work each rule exclusively, it was outperformed by target‐driven test generation. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #35 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 1:15 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 63 - Student Author(s): Katelyn Doran Amanda Chaffin, Andrew Hicks Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Charlotte Major: COMPUTER SCIENCE Mentor(s): Tiffany Barnes Title of Presentation: EleMental: The Recurrence This research project focuses on effectively integrating a functional compiler within a game environment; allowing students to enter real code to complete challenges. The educational game created for this project seeks to enhance the current curriculum of Data Structures and Algorithms courses within the computer science department. A study is currently being performed in order to show learning gains for student‐players. The game will make it easier for students to visualize more difficult computer science concepts, namely recursion and depth‐first search. By making the subject matter more approachable and easily understood, the hope is that retention and recruitment rates will rise in the department. The research focuses on educational games, game development, and improving education for computer science. The primary contribution of the project is the creation of a fully functional compiler. By using a compiler, the need for drop down boxes and multiple choice questions was eliminated. Students are able to enter their own code to answer questions rather than simply guessing the correct answer from a list, thus enhancing the educational benefit. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.20 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Michael Eni Classification: Senior College or University: Fayetteville State University Major: COMPUTER SCIENCE Mentor(s): Albert Chan Title of Presentation: Visual Studio 2005 Performance In Relation To 2008 Version Visual Studio 2008 is a fourth generation of a flag‐ship development environment, of Visual Studio (VS. NET) series. Much has been said about the new and improved performance features in the 2008 version. I will do a detailed performance comparison of Visual Studio 2005 which is the most recent version with that of Visual Studio 2008. This study will compare the two versions under three different environment, which are Visual Studio 2005w/.NET2, Visual Studio 2005w/.NET3, and Visual Studio 2008w/.NET3. I will show their differences if any. This study will be presented in two parts, any work completed before November 22, 2008 will be presented at the SNCURCS 2008, and the second part will be present at a later date. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #4 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 9:45 AM

- 64 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Samantha Finkelstein Andrea Nickel, Lane Harrison, Myra Reid Classification: Freshman College or University: University Of North Carolina At Charlotte Major: COMPUTER SCIENCE Mentor(s): Tiffany Barnes Title of Presentation: cMotion: Using Emotion Recognition to Teach Children with Autism Programming Syntax Autism is a disorder of brain function that appears early in life, generally before the age of three. Children with autism have problems with social interaction, communication, and emotion recognition. However, autistic individuals often are extremely logical and task‐oriented, qualities which suggest that high‐functioning people with this disorder could have a predisposition towards logical tasks such as computer programming. We have created a prototype for a computer game which is intended to reinforce emotion recognition within high‐functioning autistics while teaching basic C++ syntax to facilitate their learning of simple programming languages. We are currently developing a full game based off of the prototype's design, and plan to run user studies to test for the game's effectiveness as a teaching tool, as well as the benefit of adaptability in games for autism. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.17 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Lane Harrison Samantha Finkelstein, Andrea Nickel, Myra Reid Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Charlotte Major: COMPUTER SCIENCE Mentor(s): Tiffany Barnes Title of Presentation: Using a Game to Teach Children with Autism Facial Recognition Skills and Computer Programming Syntax It has been shown that children with autism (CwA hereafter) usually respond exceptionally well to activities involving computers; particularly games. These games are often simple, and therefore sometimes only appropriate for lower‐ functioning CwA. We have developed a game that can accommodate CwA of various ages and abilities. Our game, cMotion, seeks to rectify these problems by drawing on the current state of research regarding games for CwA, facial recognition cognitive processes in and therapy for CwA, and adaptability in computer applications for CwA. This research was my primary responsibility in the development of this game. cMotion is set in a town with a handful of houses, there is a playground, and various other commonly found areas and objects. My secondary responsibility in the development of cMotion was the 3D modeling needed to make these objects and areas. By December, we expect to run a pilot study to measure the effectiveness of this game to teach facial recognition practices and computer programming syntax for varying ages and abilities. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.23 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 65 - Student Author(s): Jasamine Jackson Eve Powell, Hanan Alnizami, Su HyungCho Classification: Senior College or University: Wintrop University Major: COMPUTER SCIENCE Mentor(s): Tiffany Barnes Title of Presentation: Dance Choreography Tool The Dance Tool is created as a supplementary educational aid for high school students to learn the basics of computer programming by scripting dance moves for a 3D avatar. The motivation for creating this application comes from the problem of declining enrollments in computer science courses in most universities. Numerous studies have shown that many people stereotyped computer science as a boring, nerdy, lack luster profession. Studies have also shown that many people believe that one must be a genius in computer science and mathematics in order to gain a basic understanding of the concepts of this field of study. One of the goals of the dance tool is to break both of these stereotypes. Even though there are other methods of teaching computer programming, the dance tool will increase motivation in learning programming by providing an environment that encourages creativity and diversity while focusing on the logic behind computer programming. By increasing the interest of computer programming on a high school level, the dance tool will also help solve the problem with the decline of people entering the field of computer science in undergraduate and graduate school. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.33 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Steven Martin Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: COMPUTER SCIENCE Mentor(s): Rahman Tashakkori Barry Kurtz Title of Presentation: Lifting Medical Images on Multi‐Core Systems Using a computer to analyze large medical images, such as mammograms that doctors use in their diagnoses, can take a significant amount of time. New generation wavelets and lifting schemes can be applied to these images in order to provide some details that may not be seen by the naked eye. The lifting schemes do this by decorrelating the image data into trends and differences. This generates a new image with the trend in one quadrant and details with respect to y‐ axis, x‐axis, and xy axes in the other quadrants. This can be done recursively on the trends of the original image which results in even finer details. This research demonstrates how by distributing the computations among different processors the time taken to process images can be reduced drastically. Using the programming language C and the Message Passing Interface (MPI) library, gray scale images are processed with various filters and wavelets on a variable number of cores on a multi‐core machine. A master processor sets up and distributes data to workers and pass results back to the master process. On an eight‐core machine, the processing time was reduced by up to 5 times. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #3 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 9:30 AM

- 66 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium CONSUMER, APPAREL, & RETAIL STUDIES

Student Author(s): Evelyn Siergiej Classification: Senior College or University: Mars Hill College Major: CONSUMER, APPAREL, & RETAIL STUDIES Mentor(s): Kathryn Eason Title of Presentation: Erotic Elicitation: A Qualitative Exploration of Intimate Apparel Advertising Throughout the decades women of all ages have been targeted by intimate apparel advertising through the use of erotic and racy images (Reichert, 2003). Past studies have looked primarily at responses to specific advertisement techniques targeted at consumer lifestyles (Buhl & Mick, 1992; Arnould and Thompson, 2005). The study of consumer marketing in relation to human responses presents distinct gaps in understanding a specific target market’s emotional return to selected imagery (Zaltman, 1970). Images presented in print‐based advertising are emotion‐laden metaphors for the products and brands offered for sale (Coutler & Zalman, 1995). This research explores female college students’ emotional reactions to the visual stimuli presented in erotic images of intimate apparel advertising. This research deals with consumer affect utilizing the Zaltman Metaphor Elicitation Technique (ZMET) (Coulter & Zaltman, 1995), combined with journaling and focus group techniques, I will record individual and group responses to specific advertisements. Specifically, I will investigate behavioral association and the personal nature of self‐image yielding a qualitative view of emotional interactions presented through the female subject. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #52 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 2:30 PM

CRIMINOLOGY

Student Author(s): Lara Ostapiej Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina‐Wilmington Major: CRIMINOLOGY Mentor(s): Bryan Myers Sally MacKain Title of Presentation: Job Satisfaction among North Carolina Correctional Psychologists: Examination of General and Occupation‐Specific Predictors A total of 72 correctional psychologists responded to a mailed job satisfaction questionnaire (74% response rate). The questionnaire assessed a number of specific job dimensions, some of these dimensions were relevant to most occupations for psychologists (e.g., salary, recognition, job security), and some dimensions were predicted to be particularly relevant to correctional psychologists (e.g., safety, relationships with inmates/coworkers, clear definition of roles). With the exception of salary, general job dimensions tended to predict overall job satisfaction relatively well, with correlations ranging from r = .54 to r = .72. By comparison, job dimensions specific to correctional psychology were not superior, and dimensions that were predicted to be particularly strong (e.g., safety and relationship with inmates and

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 67 - coworkers) were among the poorest predictors of overall job satisfaction. These counterintuitive findings may be explained by self selection processes, whereby individuals who enter into careers in correctional psychology do so knowing full well that issues surrounding safety and relationship with client population will be critical to their satisfaction with the job. These results speak to the importance of general job dimensions and job‐fit theories to explain satisfaction with careers in correctional psychology. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.58 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

DANCE

Student Author(s): Nikki Caruso Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: DANCE Mentor(s): Emily Daughtridge Title of Presentation: Communication in the Choreographic Process I began my first choreographic group project by establishing a frame within which to work. I knew this piece would be balletic in nature because of my dance education and personal movement preference, but decided to create a movement vocabulary that blended ballet and modern techniques. Dance, for me, is a means of communication that utilizes the body to express internal ideas, emotions, and sensations, rather than an arena in which to showcase technical "tricks" or self‐indulgent expression. Mainly, though, I wanted to work with other dancers to create a piece we could share with others who would, hopefully, come away from the performance with an emotional, intellectual, kinesthetic, or even ineffable response. I approached my new role as choreographer with the intention to work with the dancers as a guide in the creative process rather than as a dictator; this was successfully achieved and helped foster a relaxed working environment. Finding the balances between getting feedback from the dancers about how the movement was working for them, choreographic feedback from my peers, and staying true to myself and my work was an important part of my process. "Atala" is the result of these creative efforts. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP1.6 Room: Summit Trail Solarium 118 Time: 2:00 PM

- 68 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium EDUCATION

Student Author(s): Shawn Burns Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: EDUCATION Mentor(s): Nancy Yoder Title of Presentation: Middle School Students Need a Break In Guilford County "instructional time is instructional time." Pressure to do well on the state mandated tests has caused Guilford County middle schools to remove recess or break‐time from its schedule. There is no break in order to increase overall teaching time to meet new requirements. The county believes that intense, break‐free hours of instruction will enhance learning and that break‐time can use up time during the school day when students could be working. Break‐ time is also perceived to provide students an opportunity to engage in unnecessarily aggressive and aimless behavior. However, research has shown that students learn faster and score higher on tests when break time is included throughout the day. Students need novelty; and small frequent breaks provide this novelty. Break‐time also improves behavioral problems in the classroom, because without consistent breaks, students become restless, fidgety, and unfocused. Sixth grade students come from elementary school where they had recess. The teacher I interviewed said that the boys need to run around and the girls need an opportunity to socialize. Inspiration for this project came from doing a semester long ethnography at a Guilford County middle school. Type of Presentation: Exhibit #E2.1 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

ENGINEERING

Student Author(s): Cesar Duque Classification: Sophomore College or University: Robeson Community College Major: ENGINEERING Mentor(s): Louis McIntyre Jennifer Brown Title of Presentation: Kjeldahl Method of Protein Analysis The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines a dietary supplement as a product that is taken by mouth that contains a dietary ingredient. There are currently no FDA regulations that specify a minimum standard of practice for manufacturing dietary supplements. Various dietary supplements were tested using the Kjeldahl method to compare the protein content on the product label to actual laboratory results. The Kjeldahl method calculates the protein content by determining the amount of nitrogen elements found in proteins. Though this method has been broadly studied, modified, and improved upon, the Kjeldahl method for the determination of organic nitrogen is the current worldwide standard for the purpose of calculating the protein content in both animal and human food, fertilizer, wastewater, and fossil fuels. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.21 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 69 - Student Author(s): Justin Ritchie Brad Guerke, Ulrich Matthis, Curtis Jones Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Charlotte Major: ENGINEERING Mentor(s): Yogendra Kakad Title of Presentation: Polaris Tracking Telescope Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI) in Rosman, NC has been imaging 5 degrees of the sky surrounding Polaris since 2004 using a wide‐angle lens and CCD camera. The images are used for differential photometry and to measure the variation in brightness of the Polaris itself. To enhance the quality of the measurements of Polaris a special robotic telescope mount was built to accommodate a narrow field‐of‐view telescope that focuses on Polaris alone. The movement of Polaris is a circle about 1 degree in radius every 24 hours which is 1 arcsecond every 8 seconds of clock time. The design team had to consider that the polar axis is on a 19‐year cycle due to the changing lunar gravitational attractions upon the earth's equatorial bulge. There are several components to this effect. The lunar component amplitude is +/‐9 arcseconds towards the ecliptic pole with a period of 18.6 years. The solar component is +/‐ 1.2 arcseconds over 0.5 years; there is a 'fortnightly nutation' of +/‐ 0.1 arcseconds per 5 days; there is also a seasonal variation caused by the movement of airm asses of +/‐ 0.18 arcseconds per year. Utilizing two CCD cameras, the SBIG STV and the SBIG ST7 we can capture the image of Polaris by following the path of the star in the sky with linear actuators set to the coordinates of its circular path. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.63 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

ENGLISH

Student Author(s): Brandon Johnson Classification: Junior College or University: Mars Hill College Major: ENGLISH Mentor(s): Carol Boggess Title of Presentation: Jim Wayne Miller: The Hero Brier This presentation will showcase my research on the Appalachian writer Jim Wayne Miller. My study of Miller is as an exploration of his biography and a critical analysis of his work, followed by a study of his contributions to the literary history and reputation of Appalachian literature. Miller was born in Western North Carolina, not far from Asheville and spent his academic career as a German professor in Kentucky. As a writer he has a large and impressive collection of works including poetry, fiction, essays, and translations. An examination of these works can define and describe Miller’s contribution to American literature. One focus of that contribution is his image of "the Brier." Miller uses the term to refer to Appalachian people who moved north to find work but also to refer to “the quintessential Appalachian.” His literary works reflect the harsh atmosphere of the region through realistic description and a forceful voice. But Miller’s major contribution goes beyond his own literary works to include his leadership in raising awareness of and respect for Appalachian literature as a separate and distinguished branch of American literature. Miller’s contribution has made him a hero Brier. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #29 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 10:30 AM

- 70 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Heather Wright Classification: Senior College or University: Mars Hill College Major: ENGLISH Mentor(s): Carol Boggess Title of Presentation: How Jane Got Her Groove Back: Why are we so obbsessed with Jane Austen and what are we getting wrong? Jane Austen has gained immense popularity in the twenty‐first century. In a time when common curtsey is a novelty and the days of courting have been replaced by online dating sites, it is easy to see how our society can blissfully long for a world more like Austen’s Regency England. However, our ideals and notions of that time and place are often glorified and misdirected. As a result many adamant Austen fans do the unthinkable: they end up losing the essence of Jane. Her sarcasm and wit are lost on an audience that has chosen to romanticize a world in which she saw humor and absurdity. This study explores the historical aspects of Regency England as well as the social commentary that comes through Austen’s satirical style within her six major novels, which reveal aspects of human nature and delve into universal themes of society and the individual. Finally, in an effort to better understand her canon as a whole, the study examines what contemporary readers are getting right when they experience Austen as well as what they are getting wrong. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #30 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 10:45 AM

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

Student Author(s): Branyun Bullard Lane Guyton, Michelle Godwin, Clint Haywood, Lisa Walters, Lindsay Willis Classification: Sophomore College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Mentor(s): Tim Ritter Siva Mandjiny Title of Presentation: Fun with Zero‐g: A NASA Inspired Space Sciences Education Awareness Program NASA’s Reduced Gravity Student Flight Opportunities Program provides a once‐in‐a‐lifetime experience for selected undergraduate students from various universities around the country. This opportunity enables teams to perform research and conduct a microgravity experiment throughout the course of one year. In return, the knowledge that is gained will be used to educate the young people through an educational outreach program in the areas of science and engineering. The research team, known as The Weightless Lumbees, will design, fabricate, fly and evaluate two separate experiments to be performed onboard NASA’s microgravity research aircraft. The first experiment will involve the effects of microgravity on the human immune system, by looking at the molecular reaction rate of an antibody as it reacts with an antigen. The second experiment, used mainly for outreach, demonstrates the effects of microgravity on the heterogeneous mixture of oil and water. This outreach portion is designed to enhance the youth’s interest in science as well as inform parents of opportunities provided by the space program. The team has presented to a wide range of audiences ranging from elementary students to professional researchers. An overview of this research, along with the educational outreach program, will be presented.

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 71 - NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.11 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Dana Chapman Classification: Junior College or University: Pfeiffer University Major: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Mentor(s): Luke Dollar Title of Presentation: Satellite analysis of habitat type and availability reflects carnivore distribution and conservation threat in Madagascar Using LANDSAT imagery from the last decade and expert reporting from the ground‐level, this project quantifies overall amounts of different habitat types in Madagascar. These habitat types include rain forest, dry forest, spiny forest, and savanna. Known habitat ranges for the seven species of endemic carnivores will be overlaid with these classified images. Madagascar’s seven endemic carnivores are members of the family Viverridae and include the fosa (Cryptoprocta ferox, Endangered) and the falanouc (Eupleres goudotii, Endangered). These combined analyses provide an assessment of relative threats based on habitat availability and encroachment on a species‐by‐species basis. These results will be compared to recent World Conservation Union (IUCN) designations of threat, providing a basis for confirmation or review of current status of vulnerability or endangerment. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.14 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Anjelea Fisher Classification: Freshman College or University: Pfeiffer University Major: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Mentor(s): Luke Dollar Title of Presentation: Noninvasive Wildlife Biology: Large Mammal Census of Haltiwanger Retreat and Environs in Uwharrie National Forest This project involves both a satellite imagery analysis and camera trapping census of Pfeiffer University’s managed properties and surrounding protected areas in the Central North Carolina Parks System. These primarily include Uwharrie National Forest and Morrow Mountain State Park . Initially, we present satellite image analyses of areas in and around the Central North Carolina Parks Region. Field techniques primarily involving the use of digital camera traps to identify species and activity patterns at study sites provide the core of census data collected. Visited weekly, the cameras' memory cards are exchanged and removed to the laboratory, minimizing disturbance at the study site. Identification of all species encountered is them made and quantified. This project is the first step in a larger study that will eventually involve physical trapping and radio‐tracking of species to determine their densities, population sizes, home ranges, and habitat requirements. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.23 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 72 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Stephen Garner Eric Morris Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Mentor(s): Elizabeth Nichols Terri Litzenberger Title of Presentation: Evaluation of Nutrients in Streams Adjacent to Pastureland Recently Converted to Timber Production The College of Natural Resources (CNR) at NC State University recently acquired a 120 acre property in Johnston County, NC. The property surrounds a five acre inactive concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) for swine that includes two waste lagoons built in 1976. Hog waste was pumped out of lagoons and land applied to CNR pastureland. Applications of animal waste can increase nitrate (N), total nitrogen, total phosphorus (TP), and negatively impact dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and conductivity (SpCond) in receiving waterways. The objective of this project was to sample and analyze surface waters on the CNR property for the parameters above, prior to, during and immediately after tree planting of the pastureland. The data has been collected prior to the tree planting, integrated with GIS information and organized for future use and continued study by students and faculty of the CNR. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.25 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Steven Pires Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Mentor(s): Elizabeth Nichols Title of Presentation: Stable Nitrogen Isotope Analyses (15N) of Tree Stem Cores in Response to Contaminated Groundwater My research evaluated the effect of an abandoned hog lagoon on trees. Lagoons can potentially leach nitrogen into ground water that may eventually contribute nutrients to surface waters. I evaluated the chronological growth and stable nitrogen isotope signatures (δ15N‰) of trees in areas potentially impacted by lagoon ground water and in areas clearly not influenced by lagoon ground water. I collected tree cores and leaves from trees in April, June, and August 2008. Age‐dating of the tree cores provided a chronological history of tree growth. δ15N analyses can be used to determine nitrogen from specific sources such as hog waste; hog waste generally has large δ15N signatures (+10 to +30 δ15N) . I analyzed specific years of tree growth for δ15N signatures and examined if δ15N signatures changed in tree rings before and after lagoon construction (1978) and abandonment (2002). Trees in the direct path of the lagoon aquifer possessed higher δ15N signatures for both leaves and tree rings (C4 Pine, 7.051 δ15N) than trees in areas not impacted by lagoon ground water (Control Pine, ‐1.143 δ15N). Over time, δ15N signatures increased for all trees but trees in areas impacted by lagoon ground water had significantly greater 15N signatures. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.42 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 73 - Student Author(s): Rachel Roberts Classification: Senior College or University: Catawba College Major: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Mentor(s): Joseph Poston Title of Presentation: Will Recycle Bins Painted to Look Like Cows Alter Recycling Behavior? As landfill space shrinks and energy costs continue to rise, the importance of recycling is made clearer each day. Currently, however, less than 25% of all manufactured plastic bottles are recycled. As important as recycling is, the difficulty of getting people to recycle is demonstrated by the fact that almost 75% of all new plastic bottles end up in landfills. The town of Lewisham, England, in three months, observed a 61% increase in recycling at an urban drop‐off station using recycle bins painted like cows. Seeing success at the drop‐off stations Lewisham is now distributing cow bins to elementary schools. I wish to see the effects of the cow bins on high school students. I am conducting an experiment to compare the amount of recycling collected in normal bins with the amount of recycling collected in cow bins to see if cow bins encourage recycling. For three months, I will measure the amount of recycling in 55 classrooms to gather baseline data. After replacing recycling containers with the cow bins I will again measure the amount of recycling in each classroom for three months and document any change in the amount of material recycled. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #2 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 9:15 AM

Student Author(s): Matthew Vanhoy Owen Barcala Classification: Senior College or University: Pfeiffer University Major: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Mentor(s): Luke Dollar Title of Presentation: Invasive domestic carnivores contribute to a localized extinction of Madagascar’s largest endemic carnivore, the fosa (Cryptoprocta ferox) The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between feral domestic dog (Canis lupis familiaris) population numbers and those of the fosa (Cryptoprocta ferox) in Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar. Data span a nine year period from 1999 to 2008, based on a walking censuses during trap line made as part of a larger study focusing on area carnivores. Starting in 2003, fosa encounter rates decreased as dog encounter rates rose. We hypothesize that a localized temporary extinction of Cryptoprocta occurred by 2007, paralleling a substantial decrease in overexploited prey populations. In 2008, a fosa population rebound following reduction in dog populations occurred. These data provide important empirical evidence of the threat posed to endemic wildlife by invasions of domestic carnivores. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #1 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 9:00 AM

- 74 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium EXERCISE & SPORT SCIENCE

Student Author(s): Matthew Boulos Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina‐Wilmington Major: EXERCISE & SPORT SCIENCE Mentor(s): Robert Boyce Title of Presentation: A Longitudinal Comparison of BMI and percent body fat change in the Charlotte‐ Mecklenburg Police Department over 12.5 years Little research has been conducted in police comparing how body mass index (BMI) and percent body fat (skin folds) differ in classifying individuals. PURPOSE: To compare body mass index with percent body fat classifications of obesity in police officers over 12.5 years. METHODS: Police recruit and in‐service physical fitness tests were used to track changes in mass, BMI, percent body fat, fat and lean body mass. Comparisons were made between genders at recruit and in‐ service testing and the changes in these variables over time. RESULTS: Sample included 286 police; 24 females, 262 males. Significant differences were found between genders in all body composition variables, except fat mass at both testing periods. Body mass and lean mass increased more over time in males than females. Males and females increase in all body composition variables over time. A greater percentage of males were classified as obese at in‐service by BMI and more females classified as obese by percent body fat. There was disagreement in those classified as obese between the two systems at in‐service. CONCLUSION: BMI and percent fat showed disagreement in obese classifications. Increase in lean mass over time may influence this disagreement in BMI, especially in males. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.7 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Jacqueline Irwin Lindsey Schrieber, Peter Hosick, Jenna Wrieden, & Rebecca Kappus Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: EXERCISE & SPORT SCIENCE Mentor(s): John Quindry Title of Presentation: Antioxidant Enyzme Function In Exercised Cardiac Tissue Evidence shows exercise has a contributory role in cardioprotection against ischemia reperfusion (IR) damage. Although the exact mechanisms are not fully known, an existing rationale suggests that the protection is due to the involvement of endogenous antioxidant enzymes found in cardiac tissue, in particular, those of the exercised heart such as catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). PURPOSE: To identify the specific antioxidant enzyme(s) responsible for exercise induced cardioprotection against IR damage. METHOD: Thirty four‐month old Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to either cardioprotective (3 days, 60 min, 70% VO2max) or sedentary conditions. Twenty‐four hours following these conditions, rats were anesthetized and exposed to invivo ischemia (20min) reperfusion (30min). Arterial Evans Blue dye injections indicated ischemic and perfused myocardia. Hearts were excised and stored for assay of specified enymatic activity. RESULTS: The cardiac area at risk was identical for all treatments, and no difference existed in antioxidant enzyme activities between ischemic and perfused tissue. When compared to sham hearts, sedentary hearts exhibited a significant rise in protein carbonyls, while exercised hearts exhibited elevated MnSOD (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Exercise produced a significant rise in MnSOD activities, which was associated with attenuation of oxidative stress and arrhythmia prevention during IR. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.31 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 75 - Student Author(s): Joshua Wheeler Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: EXERCISE & SPORT SCIENCE Mentor(s): Fuxia Jin Title of Presentation: Validated Application of New RP‐HPLC for Determination of Select Polyphenols ((+)‐ Catechin, Quercetin, and Trans‐Resveratrol) in Blood Serum, Plasma and Urine The concentrations of three polyphenols ((+)‐catechin, quercetin, and trans‐resveratrol) in blood serum, plasma and urine have been shown to be quantifiable utilizing gas chromatography with mass selective detection (G.J. Soleas). Using high‐performance liquid chromatography, a method was developed for the determination of a select 24 flavonoids and phenolic acids and five subclasses of polyphenols (Adrian Bolarinwa). Using these models as guidelines, a new validated chemical assay was developed to measure specifically the levels of three polyphenols ((+)‐catechin, quercetin, and trans‐ resveratrol). Samples were prepared using an ethyl acetate extraction of 100µl urine or plasma samples previously conditioned with a 25µl enzyme solution, 10µl Fisetin, and 2µl DTT. The samples were then separated using reverse pressure high‐performance liquid chromatography. This method could present itself as a more effective and potentially more accurate way of analyzing blood serum, plasma and urine levels of these three select polyphenols than previously published similar assays measuring the same polyphenols. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.61 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

GEOGRAPHY

Student Author(s): Carla Gray Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina‐Wilmington Major: GEOGRAPHY Mentor(s): Michael Benedetti Title of Presentation: Buried Soils as Stratigraphic Marker Horizons on the Cape Fear River Floodplain, Bladen County, North Carolina Over the past 40 years, studies have shown that presettlement soils can be used to determine historical deposition rates in river systems across North America. Previous studies in the Coastal Plain of the Southeastern USA have not been cited, and it is unclear whether they are not present or have not been identified due to several factors. First, poor drainage causes soil‐forming conditions, such as bioturbation and redoximorphic features, to mask the appearance of buried soils in floodplains. Second, deposition rates are low relative to rates of pedogenesis and bioturbation. Third, the long colonial history of the southeast means the postsettlement stratigraphic record in floodplains is more complex than other regions, due to lower deposition rates over time. The purpose of this study is to show that a presettlement soil is present and can be used as a stratigraphic marker horizon to determine deposition rates on the Cape Fear River Floodplain, Bladen County, North Carolina. Buried soils were identified by field description, supported by organic carbon determination. Radiocarbon dates suggest an age of approximately A.D. 1620, with a vertical accretion rate of approximately 2.7mm/yr since its burial. Initial Cesium‐137 results suggest a floodplain deposition rate of approximately 9mm/yr since 1954. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.21 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 76 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Linwood Hall Classification: Senior College or University: East Carolina University Major: GEOGRAPHY Mentor(s): Hong‐Bing Su Title of Presentation: An Analysis of Observed Urban Heat Island in Greenville North Carolina and Its Implication on Energy Consumption and the Environment The impacts of Urban Heat Island (UHI) on our climate and environment are multifaceted, from energy consumption and air quality to water use and public health. Such impacts are rapidly increasing in growing cities such as the City of Greenville, NC, where the population has increased 69% in the past 18 years. In this presentation, observations from two automated weather stations in and surrounding Greenville (population ~ 76,000) are analyzed to quantify the climatology of UHI and establish quantitative relations between the strength of UHI and synoptic weather conditions (wind speed and solar radiation/cloudiness), including their seasonality. The climate data are combined with energy consumption data to establish quantitative relations between UHI and energy consumption. A goal is to develop models for the prediction of energy demand for the city based on weather forecast information. We also plan to examine the relations between UHI and water use and air quality of the city. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #24 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 11:00 AM

GEOLOGY

Student Author(s): Kate McGinnis Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: GEOLOGY Mentor(s): Cynthia Liutkus Title of Presentation: A provenance study of coarse‐grained sediments from the Gray Fossil Site sinkhole, northeastern TN The Gray Fossil Site (northeastern TN) is a sinkhole formed within Cambro‐Ordovician Knox Group carbonates. The sinkhole sediments preserve Mio‐Pliocene fauna and flora as well as interlayers of coarse‐ (fluvial) and fine‐grained (lacustrine) sediments. Nine sand layers from the base of a 38 m core were analyzed and found to be quartz‐dominated. The quartz grains are frosted, well rounded, and well sorted. The surfaces of chert grains exhibit rhombic voids indicative of dolomolds found in the nearby upper Conococheague (Cambrian) and lower Chepultepec Formations (Ordovician). Well‐rounded, frosted grains are also found in these Formations and indicate a local source <2 km to the southeast. This contrasts previous studies that report a distant (>50 km), volcanic source for sand units at the site. The rounding and sorting of the sands in this study occurred during Cambro‐Ordovician deposition and therefore cannot be used as a proxy for Tertiary transport distance to the site. The disparity between published provenance and the results of this study provide further evidence that the site contains various coalesced sinkholes that formed and filled at different times under different paleodrainage and environmental settings. Therefore, simple comparison of the sediments from these various depocenters is neither easy nor accurate. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.38 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 77 - GERMAN

Student Author(s): AdriAnne Cole Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Greensboro Major: GERMAN Mentor(s): Susanne Rinner Title of Presentation: Bild‐ing a Group Identity: Visually Constructing Gender and National Pride in the Context of German Soccer The idea of German patriotism typically conjures up images of World War II and the evils of fascism, so there is an understandable taboo surrounding displays of national pride in modern‐day Germany. In the past two years, however, the harmless context of European soccer competition has fostered an acceptance of German national pride. The colors of the flag and other national symbols are now worn proudly by fans in support of the German national team. A look at soccer also warrants a discussion of gender. Concepts of masculinity and masculine physical displays are addressed as well as an overlap between gender and nationalism. There is a certain hegemonic masculinity in professional sports, as is evident in post‐goal and post‐game celebrations. This research investigates the conflict between nationalism and national pride in the context of soccer as well as the visual construction of group identity associated with national symbols, the visual construction of masculine group identity, and masculine and feminine national identities through the analysis of a series of photographs from this year’s European Soccer Championship. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #34 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 1:00 PM

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Student Author(s): Alexandra Wiedemann Classification: Junior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: GRAPHIC DESIGN Mentor(s): Anne Schiller Title of Presentation: Mapping “Authenticity” in a Historic Marketplace: The Case of Florence’s Central Market The Central Market is one of Florence, Italy’s major cultural and economic icons. Vendors have sold goods there for more than a century, but how business is conducted there, and by whom, has changed. A growing percentage of market customers are tourists or members of immigrant populations rather than long‐term local residents. Some new vendors, too, are foreign immigrants. As a result of these changes, more items on sale there are intended to appeal to non‐locals. These goods include vacuum‐packed foods, spices, oils, and other items packaged in “travel sizes,” and more. This research project used mapping and observation to determine how immigration, globalization, and tourism are affecting the decisions of Florentine merchants concerning what to sell and how to maximize use of space in the San Lorenzo Market. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.76 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 78 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium HISTORY

Student Author(s): Erica Adelman Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: HISTORY Mentor(s): Jeremiah Kitunda Title of Presentation: Strength in the Midst of Loss and Despair: HIV/AIDS and the Growing Numbers of Orphans in South Africa There is an unprecedented problem of orphans in South Africa. The growth in numbers of orphans began in the mid 1990s and has since continued to escalate because of the increase in HIV/AIDS‐related deaths. This paper relies heavily on over 40 interviews of orphaned children and South African adults of various backgrounds to trace the history of HIV/AIDS and growing numbers of orphans within the country. These interviews were completed by the author in the summer of 2008. African communities are structured to absorb children who have lost one or both parents. This community structure was undermined by both the apartheid and the current government, by poverty and by lack of HIV/AIDS education. Consequently, African communities have not been able to absorb the growing numbers of orphaned children. This problem can best be addressed by strengthening these communities through education and government accountability. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #27 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 10:00 AM

Student Author(s): Ashley Brooks Classification: Senior College or University: Chowan University Major: HISTORY Mentor(s): Gregory Taylor Title of Presentation: Read Scare?: Press Coverage of the 1929 Gastonia Strike, 1929‐1999 In 1929, the workers at the Loray Mill in Gastonia, NC, went on strike to protest the harsh conditions under which the employees labored. The National Textile Workers Union, a Communist‐run union, organized and led the strike which ended in violence. Ultimately, two people were killed, Police Chief Aderholt and union worker Ella Mae Wiggins. Seven people were convicted of Aderholt’s murder and sentenced to prison, the killers of Ella Mae Wiggins escaped justice. Initially, the press covered the strike and murders from two distinct, opposing viewpoints. The pro‐Communist/union view portrayed by the Daily Worker established Communism as the means by which the people would gain more rights. The mill‐owner/government viewpoint maintained that the Communists were using the millworkers to initiate a socialist revolution. Over the decades, the portrayal of the strike has evolved to minimize or reduce the mention of Communist involvement and instead, emphasized the work of the labor union. This paper will demonstrate the press the coverage of the Gastonia Strike from its beginnings in 1929, to its seventieth anniversary in 1999. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #28 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 10:15 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 79 - HORTICULTURAL SCIENCE

Student Author(s): Charles Edens Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: HORTICULTURAL SCIENCE Mentor(s): Michelle Schroeder‐Moreno Title of Presentation: A Potential Alternative: a study of a community garden in the Central Piedmont of North Carolina. The conventional way we produce food in North Carolina desecrates environmental and community health and cannot be maintained in the future. Despite the increasing research being done in areas pertaining to a more sustainable agricultural system in North Carolina, little research attention has been given to the ways community gardens operate and positively effect social and environmental health. Though community gardens hold significant potential in this arena, there are several factors involved in starting and maintaining one that are necessary to consider; such as how to acquire land, how to finance and manage the garden, how to grow and distribute food, and how to engage people. This twelve week study examines how Anathoth Community Garden addresses these issues in a rural town located in the Central Piedmont of North Carolina, and also how the garden affects the environmental health and social ambiance of the community. The results of this study provide a general resource for other communities, specifically in Central North Carolina, to use in establishing a community garden of their own, and also highlight areas where more in‐depth research can be done in the future. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.22 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

INFORMATION SYSTEMS & OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT

Student Author(s): Jenny Celin Classification: Sophomore College or University: University Of North Carolina At Greensboro Major: INFORMATION SYSTEMS & OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT Mentor(s): Mary Crowe Jan Rychtar Title of Presentation: Fascinating Life of a Dung Beetle Onthophagus Taurus is a dung beetle found often in North Carolina. There are three adult morphs, or body forms, the minor male, the major male and the female. It has been shown that when the female has mated she will either build a brood ball herself, or find another brood ball, currently occupied by an egg, and kill the egg and put her own inside. This is called kleptoparasitism. We conducted experiments to look at how density could affect the number of brood balls they produce, and how quickly these behaviors occur. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.11 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 80 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

Student Author(s): Gerald Gordner Classification: H.S. Senior College or University: Jack Britt High School Major: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS Mentor(s): Rahman Tashakkori Jere Miles Title of Presentation: Gaining A Thousand Words: Connecting Visualization, Comprehension, and Memory The term “audio‐visual learner” is a common one, especially in the field of education. This phrase has been the label of thousands of American youth in the education system. However, few people have truly studied the benefits of audio‐ visual based lesson plans. Fewer still have attempted to quantify exactly how much students require visual reinforcement, even within the most heavily tested group of individuals: young adults. To fill this knowledge gap, this study seeks to link visualization with comprehension and retention of information, with intent to illuminate part of the learning process and therefore alter instructional practices. In order to accomplish this, a set of information was given to two separate groups of volunteers by two different means: visual and non‐visual. Then, these groups answered ten questions on the information, sectionalized by focus (major and minor detail and critical thinking). The final results hint at fascinating trends in focus and memory which will greatly aid in our understanding of the correlation between visualization and learning. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #56 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 3:30 PM

INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

Student Author(s): Barbara Hugl Classification: Junior College or University: Mars Hill College Major: INTERNATIONAL STUDIES Mentor(s): Katharine R. Meacham, Ph.D. Title of Presentation: Globalization – Destruction or Salvation for Developing Countries? Globalization is that omnipresent phenomenon that not many of us can define, but we all know it is there and that it has an impact on our economy, politics and culture. In theory, globalization is supposed to be for the good of all. But there is serious controversy if it really is beneficial to the entire global civil society. Liberal approaches argue that both poverty and inequality have fallen in the last tow decades, and that globalization has had a beneficial impact on all. Deeper integration into the global economy is the solution for less developed countries. The anti‐neo‐liberal argument suggests in contrast that world poverty and inequality have been rising. The least developed countries (alias LDCs) do not have a significant voice in the global rule making, and are often excluded from the economic benefits of globalization. In addition, economic growth is not guaranteed to lead to human development. Big international organizations, like the World Bank and the IMF, are in charge of helping those countries to manage their debt and move towards market‐led economies. But there is significant worry that the current course of globalization may not benefit the LDCs. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #31 Room: Attic Window 137C Time: 11:00 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 81 - MATERIALS ENGINEERING

Student Author(s): Wisun Kim Gregory Mogilevsky Classification: H.S. Senior College or University: North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Major: MATERIALS ENGINEERING Mentor(s): Jonathan Bennett Yue Wu Title of Presentation: Creating Photo‐Electrochemical Cells for Hydrogen Production Using TiO2 Anatase Nanotubes deposited on FTO Glass Hydrogen is an alternative energy source that may serve as a supplement to petroleum in the future. Due to its abundance, clean exhaust outputs, and various applications, hydrogen will bring major change to the society by reducing gasoline prices and increasing energy supply. We examine a novel way of hydrogen production by considering solar energy as the input energy to produce hydrogen. Solar energy, which is unlimited, will be the perfect energy source to operate a PEC (photo‐electrochemical cell) for hydrogen production. The purpose of this research is to create a hydrogen generating PEC that will be able to utilize solar energy. Research in hydrogen generating PEC is still in its primitive stage and therefore our hydrogen generating PEC will be unique. We will use titanium anatase nanotubes on FTO (Fluorine doped Tin Oxide) glass as our photo anode, KOH/H2O aqueous electrolyte solution, Ag/AgCl solid electrode, and platinum as our cathode. If conditions permit, we will use titanium anatase nanotubes sensitized with anthrarobin to utilize the visible light portion of the solar spectrum. We were able to create a PEC for hydrogen production using TiO2 anatase nanotubes deposited on FTO glass. Our results showed that our unique PEC was able to utilize solar energy to produce hydrogen. The evident jump in the current confirms that the PEC was able to utilize the UV wavelength photons to initiate the reduction/oxidation in the electrolyte to produce hydrogen. Our goal in creating a hydrogen producing PEC using TiO¬2 anatase nanotbues on FTO glass was achieved. Our PEC can be further enhanced if the laboratory setting is improved. Using purge gas and a UV lamp that emits higher energy photons will significantly increase the frequency/quantity of the hydrogen production. Further research is in progress in order to utilize the visible spectrum of solar rays by using TiO2 nanotubes dye‐sensitized with anthrarobin. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.41 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 82 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium MATHEMATICAL DECISION SCIENCES

Student Author(s): Donna Kamarei Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: MATHEMATICAL DECISION SCIENCES Mentor(s): Terry Anderson Title of Presentation: Functional Equation Methods with Applications to Linearization for Difference Equations Mathematical computations frequently are based on equations that allow us to compute the value of a function recursively from a given set of values. Such an equation is called a “difference equation” or “recurrence equation.” These equations occur in numerous settings and forms, both in mathematics itself and in its application to statistics, computing, electrical circuit analysis, physics, meteorology, dynamical systems, economics, biology, and numerous other fields. The computational efficiency of obtaining the values of solutions of difference equations recursively is very important for applied problems in the sciences, engineering, and economics. Having at our disposal machines that can do a large number of calculations in a split second, we can easily compute a large number of values of the solution of difference equations. For this reason, it is sometimes helpful to reduce continuous problems to approximate discrete problems. This way of obtaining solutions, however, although very useful for some purposes, is insufficient for others. Our research project revolves around transforming nonlinear equations into equivalent linear equations by two different methods: Maeda’s method, and the traditional change of variable method which can be quite heuristic. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.38 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

MATHEMATICS

Student Author(s): Nicolas Kiely Wesley Springs Classification: H.S. Senior College or University: Nash Community College Major: MATHEMATICS Mentor(s): Thomas Aydlett Michael Shaner Title of Presentation: Developing a Computer Genetic Script for Solving Problems in Arbitrary Applications Genetic algorithms are often useful in solving problems by adapting to a given situation. In this project, we designed a software package that can evaluate a 4 bit genetic script and receive outputs from the script. The software package can mutate the scripts based on constraints imposed by an environment. The purpose for this package is to evolve traits for a set of desired behaviors, which is indicated by a programmer. The programmer indicates the desired behavior by defining success of an evaluated script. Thus, the advantage is that the user does not have to know the specific desired behaviors to obtain a preferable outcome. Additionally, we intend to use this script in runtime with a robot. We are developing a robotic rover as a vessel to test scripts. In this case, we define success as mapping a room in the shortest amount of time. However, the scripting language by itself is indifferent to it's use, therefore, it may be effective in other application. The scripting language is adaptable to any application as long as gradients of success is well defined and there is a means of interpreting output of the script. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.40 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 83 - Student Author(s): Komi Messan Classification: Sophomore College or University: North Carolina A & T State University Major: MATHEMATICS Mentor(s): Dominic Clemence Liping Liu Title of Presentation: Exploring the logistic differential equation Numerous mathematical models can be used to simulate population dynamics, but the logistic equation was proven to be the simplest mathematical model that describes the self‐limiting growth of a biological population. This equation is a prototype for a nonlinear model and the linear per capita growth is a decreasing function of the population. This paper provides an explanation of the logistic equation. By using the method of separation of variables and integration by partial fractions, we explicitly solved this equation; this allowed us to perceive the solution in close form. We discussed its solution as well as its stability property. We used two examples to illustrate how this equation can be used to simulate a phenomenon. We were able to graph this solution using Excel an MATLAB which implement numerical methods. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.47 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Jason Pearson Jason Wilkes Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: MATHEMATICS Mentor(s): Jeff Hirst Title of Presentation: Systems of Marriage Problems We present and prove extensions of the classic theorems of Philip and Marshall Hall concerning marriage problems. Our more general theorems turn out of have applications to both the familiar, everyday Sudoku problems and infinite Sudoku problems. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.60 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 84 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Wesley Springs Nicolas Kiely Classification: Sophomore College or University: Nash Community College Major: MATHEMATICS Mentor(s): Tom Aydlett Brent Dozier Kochi Angar Title of Presentation: An Analysis of Multi‐Dimensional Hyperspheres An ‐dimensional hypersphere is defined as the set of all points in ‐dimensional space equidistant from a fixed point, the center. The volume of an ‐dimensional hypersphere of radius , which we denote by , can be determined by using an integration technique with the ( )‐dimension. Start with a “one‐dimensional” sphere (a line segment), where . If one takes a “two‐dimensional sphere” (a circle), and divides it into an infinite number of these segments, then is obtained by integrating . Following this pattern, can be determined by dividing the three‐dimensional sphere into infinitely many circles. This leads us to the theorem that can be determined by dividing the ‐dimensional hypersphere into infinitely many ( )‐dimensional hyperspheres and integrating their volume function . Using this theorem, we can establish an integration formula for . Then, using Wallis' formula (for integrating ), we can establish two different formulas (without an integral) for , one for even values of and one for odd values of . We have also determined the limit of as approaches infinity, and the dimension in which the maximum volume of the unit radius hypersphere, , occurs. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #53 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 2:45 PM

Student Author(s): Patrick Tenorio Classification: H.S. Senior College or University: North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Major: MATHEMATICS Mentor(s): Philip Rash Title of Presentation: Simple Quadratic Fields One of Gauss' conjectures states that there are infinitely many real quadratic fields with class number one. Proving this statement is equivalent to showing that there exist infinitely many m>0 such that the fundamental theorem of arithmetic holds in real Q(√m) In this study, we have characterized integers with multiple prime factorizations in non‐ simple quadratic fields and their given associated properties. In addition, a refined definition of simple quadratic fields is also presented, which introduces an alternative interpretation of Gauss' conjecture in both complex and real quadratic fields. In particular for real quadratic fields, this interpretation gives rise to the theorem that if there exists no irreducible rational primes p,q representable by the Diophantine equation pq=x^2‐my^2, where x, y are rational integers, for infinitely many positive square‐free m congruent to 2 or 3 modulo 4, then Gauss' conjecture holds. The result of an effective characterization of these simple quadratic fields has applications in the area of cryptographic algorithms, namely through the construction of public‐key cryptosystems independent of the integer factorization problem and discrete logarithm problem. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.56 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 85 - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Student Author(s): Benjamin Brockhoff Heather Justice, Julian Yuen, Matthew Netsch Classification: Sophomore College or University: Duke University Major: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Mentor(s): Thomas Flatley Title of Presentation: Onboard Processing Applications for Robots and Rovers My team developed software in C++ for the automated navigation of a Pioneer 3 robot in an unknown terrain. The platform was to be used as proof‐of‐concept for the "onboard processing applications for robots and rovers." Using proximity data from a SICK laser scanner, 2 dimensional polar coordinates were taken and then mapped onto a virtual world map. The local points were transformed onto world map using gyro, inclimeter, and position readings. (X,Y,Z) position of the rover was tracked using internal wheel odometry in coordination with the gyro and inclimeters. A plan optimized for a combination of time efficiency and risk management was calculated using a dynamic A* algorithm, and the path would update as new terrain was explored. As the path plan was created and updated, a driver class would consider the current position of the robot, the next several waypoints, and devise a course of action in order to output movement to the wheels. Continually referencing the its position and its intended position, the robot would correct it’s trajectory in the event of bad steering. The software relied upon ActivMedia's ARIA libraries. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.7 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Taylor Courier Classification: H.S. Senior College or University: North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Major: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Mentor(s): Jonathan Bennett Title of Presentation: Mobile Autonomous Robotic Sensing System (MARSS) This project’s goal is to design, build, program and test a mobile, autonomous robot to locate radiation sources in the environment, and transmit live sensor data to a remote operator. This robot eliminates the need for humans to be in a potentially dangerous location by utilizing a Geiger counter to search for radiation. If the radiation ever exceeds the ambient radiation level by 3 standard deviations, the robot marks the position and notifies the operator. The robot drives in tele‐operated mode and transmits live sensor data to a remote operator. It can locate 10‐microcurie radiation sources 30 cm away. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.16 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 86 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium MUSIC

Student Author(s): Nathan Brown Appalachian Saxophone Quartet Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: MUSIC Mentor(s): Scott Meister Title of Presentation: Deception When Deception was originally conceived, the piece was intended to be performed as a dialogue between four characters symbolized by the Appalachian Saxophone Quartet. Because the piece was designed for live performance, the worry was that the audience would be stretched to follow four dialogues. As the Deception progressed, it began to digress from the narrative story and focus more on rhythmic counterpoint and set theory. Once headed in this direction, the piece began to take on a life of its own. The piece was written with three basic ideas in mind; to create a deceptive play with rhythms, to produce ordered chaos, and to utilize theatrical elements during the piece to keep the audience engaged with the performers on stage. The result is an experience that will unite players and audience in an exercise that will have them following the unexpected twists and turns of the performance. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP1.1 Room: Summit Trail Solarium 118 Time: 9:30 AM

Student Author(s): Joseph DuBose Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: MUSIC Mentor(s): Scott Meister Title of Presentation: Thematic Transformations in Fugue Thematic transformations, an idea explored in Rudolph Reti’s "The Thematic Process in Music", are often used in large scale works such sonatas and symphonies but are rarely, possibly never, used in fugue. In Fuga Tematica, importance is not laid on the literal fugue subject but instead upon its underlying motivic structure. Throughout the course of the fugue, new transformations of the subject, each one maintaining the same underlying motivic structure, are introduced and then combined contrapuntally with the original form. Also similar to the treatment of themes in large scale works and part of Reti’s “thematic process” is the use of a basic motivic structure that requires resolution which is attained only in the final section of the fugue. Through these processes, the musical potential of the fugue subject is explored in much the same way as that of a theme in the development section of a sonata form. However, there is no mixture of sonata and fugal form as has been done by other composers. The fugue subject is no longer the literal series of notes but a structural motivic idea which in turn expands the development of the subject beyond contrapuntal techniques to the organic growth a single idea. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP1.3 Room: Summit Trail Solarium 118 Time: 10:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 87 - Student Author(s): Aaron Fann Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: MUSIC Mentor(s): Scott Meister Title of Presentation: 20th Century Compositional Techiniques The 20th Century has provided an endless palette for the modern‐day sound organizer. From these tools are at a composer's fingertips. A variety of serialistic techniques such as set‐theory, extended technique, and dodecaphonism are juxtaposed within a short, single work for six saxophones. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP1.4 Room: Summit Trail Solarium 118 Time: 11:00 AM

Student Author(s): David Hunt Classification: Sophomore College or University: Appalachian State University Major: MUSIC Mentor(s): Scott Meister Title of Presentation: Kontakion' for saxophone sextet ‘Kontakion’ for saxophone sextet is more or less a modernized, instrumental flowering of the liturgical chant associate with the Byzantine‐‐Eastern Orthodox Christian faith. This chant is characterized by the use of basic polyphony and despite its classification as chant is fairly distant stylistically and structurally from Western Christian chant. The musical system it utilizes is based on Greco‐Byzantine tonality which involves such innovations as quarter‐tones and church modes distinctly separate from the Western style. The music utilizes several idioms associated with the historical counterpart‐‐primarily the use of perfect intervals, typical ornamentation, rhythms that parallel the speaking quality of some chant, and the use of raised leading tones which are not used as often in Western chant. Whilst the work is based upon chant it is still polyphonic, using very basic counterpoint and layering of material. The instrumentation‐‐soprano, two altos, tenor and two baritone saxophones‐‐is also based upon my desire to make it sound as vocal as possible. Overall, my goal was to create a modern work which relied heavily upon much older work and maintains at least the same general musical affect and texture. (Note: There will be a live performance at the Composition Studio recital on November 24th.) Type of Presentation: Performance #CP1.5 Room: Summit Trail Solarium 118 Time: 1:30 PM

- 88 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Eva Mowry Chelsea Whittaker, Kimberly Zeigler, Hannah Utley Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: MUSIC Mentor(s): Eric Koontz Title of Presentation: Resurrection After Death, a string quartet by Drew O'Keefe This piece, written by a student composition major at Appalachian State, has been a cumulative effort between the composer, string quartet members, and coach. The performance is an illustration of the necessary creativity on each side of the equation: composer and performer, and the difference in responsibility for a unified end result. The quartet rehearsed the piece on a regular basis, assisted by their coach, Eric Koontz. The composer was invited to contribute feedback in order to tailor the performance to his intentions. The end result, however, is a combination of perspectives and techniques from all involved. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP1.2 Room: Summit Trail Solarium 118 Time: 10:00 AM

Student Author(s): Andrew O'Keefe Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: MUSIC Mentor(s): Scott Meister Title of Presentation: Saxophone Melodic Transformation The saxophone has reputation of being an instrument for playing jazz compositions. It is not thought of as an instrument used primarily for 20th century modern compositions. Though the composition "Saxophone Has Its Turn" does not sound like a modern 20th century piece, the techniques used in composition are common for the era. First, the instrumentation used is a saxophone septet, which consists of a soprano saxophone, two alto saxophones, a tenor saxophone, and a baritone saxophone. Second, the melody, stated in the beginning, is the only theme used throughout the entire piece. The melody is then taken and reconstructed in many different ways to be used by all the instruments in the rest of the composition. The difficulty in this, is that the piece has to flow together and while not sounding too repetitive. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP2.1 Room: Watauga River 102 Time: 9:00 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 89 - Student Author(s): William Watson Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: MUSIC Mentor(s): Scott Meister Title of Presentation: The Inebriated Nobleman Among the sea of inquiries concerning bimodal music, the first fish to escape its restless domicile was how to apply the earlier theory I had learned. To test the waters, I combined C Dorian and C Mixolydian, the saxophone sextet (a group seldom summoned for melodic musings), and some semblance of functional harmony. With the third scale degree being their only difference, the tonic chords in the two modes produce a clash of minor and major, respectively. The three and six chords also tend to make unpleasant pairings, so I let the third scale degree act as the rope in the constant tug‐ of‐war between voices. In the beginning bars of the piece, the third is yanked back and forth as E flat in the lower voices and E natural in the upper voices. When the motive emerges in the middle of the piece, via a stretto escalator from alto to sopranos, the melody alternates between modes as it is imitated. I was careful to keep the quarrelsome notes at a safe distance during encounters with arpeggiated chords and counterpoint until the final bars; the disruptive threes are imprisoned within pianissimo, leaving the listener with an irritated sigh. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP2.3 Room: Watauga River 102 Time: 11:00 AM

MUSIC EDUCATION

Student Author(s): Amanda Smith Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: MUSIC EDUCATION Mentor(s): Victor Mansure Title of Presentation: Musicians, Music, and Society in Europe in the Eighteenth and into the Nineteeth Century The society, economy, and the mass musical culture in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries manifested the aesthetics in which musicians and music were valued, as well as defined it their roles during the time. Seen by the public and musicians alike, such societal structures rendered themselves undoubtedly influential in the sociology of music and its musicians. One may begin to see and understand the lives of the musicians and how their defined hierarchies played themselves to societies expectations of music during the time. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries of mainly Germanic speaking areas of Europe, aristocratic lifestyles offered the highest quality in social prominence to a musician. However, through economic changes and mass musical culture, greater amounts of printed music, and the penetration of the piano into the middle class home, one now began to see a rise among the bourgeoisie. Shifts among the classes were increasingly evident; a new foundation of musicians and respect followed by the end of the eighteenth leading into the nineteenth centuries. It was the society and culture of this time that acted as a lens, giving insight into the lives of the people, the economy, and the way people perceived music. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #68 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 3:30 PM

- 90 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium NUCLEAR ENGINEERING

Student Author(s): Adam Steiner Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: NUCLEAR ENGINEERING Mentor(s): Steven Shannon Title of Presentation: “Characterization of plasma‐assisted growth of amorphous and micro‐crystalline silicon for the efficient fabrication of high‐efficiency, multi‐layer solar panels” This project aims to characterize the effects of varying controllable parameters including drive frequency, pressure, and process gas chemistry on amorphous and microcrystalline silicon deposition characteristics in a plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) reactor. The deposition of these two types of silicon is an essential component of the fabrication of high‐efficiency silicon‐based solar cells. A plasma reactor was constructed for the deposition of silicon on multiple substrate types. A cutting‐edge in‐line RF probe was connected to the 13.56 MHz standard radiofrequency power source to allow for time‐resolved measurements of voltage, current, and phase, which are used to calculate critical plasma parameters. Silicon films were deposited from silane gas at a variety of pressures. Deposition was carried out with varying concentrations of hydrogen mixed with the source gas; argon was also introduced into the process gas chemistry. Deposited films were characterized using a variety of metrology techniques. Future work on this project will include using generators of differing drive frequencies and additional studies with respect to argon concentration to determine optimal film characteristics as a function of plasma parameters and process drive characteristics. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.53 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

NURSING

Student Author(s): Elizabeth Nemitz Ashlee Zackeru Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Greensboro Major: NURSING Mentor(s): Mona Shattell Jie Hu, Sharon Starr Title of Presentation: A case study analysis of cultural issues in a pre‐licensure baccalaureate nursing program Nurses must be cultural competent to provide adequate quality health care in an increasingly multicultural society. Within Guilford and surrounding counties, where nursing students gain clinical experience and most likely will work after graduation, a plethora of cultures and ethnicities exist. This study will use a case study approach to explore how cultural issues are reflected in a pre‐licensure undergraduate upper division nursing program. Upper division (junior and senior year) nursing students will be surveyed using two cultural competency measurement tools (Blueprint for Integration of

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 91 - Cultural Competency in the Curriculum and the Transcultural Self‐Efficacy Tool). A select number of these students will be invited to participate in one of three focus groups for in‐depth discussions regarding their comfort and ability to provide quality health care to culturally, ethnically, racially, and socioeconomically diverse populations. Individual interviews with faculty, administrators, and staff will also be conducted. Several documents will be reviewed: the School of Nursing Student and Faculty Handbooks, the School of Nursing’s mission statement, the undergraduate curriculum, and the School of Nursing’s Race and Gender committee minutes. Findings from this study may yield important information about how cultural issues are reflected in a pre‐licensure undergraduate upper division nursing program. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #67 Room: Attic Window 137C Time: 3:15 PM

PAPER SCIENCE & ENGINEERING

Student Author(s): Andrew Martin Classification: Junior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: PAPER SCIENCE & ENGINEERING Mentor(s): Lucian Lucia Title of Presentation: Extraction and Identification of Essential Oils and Sugars from North Carolina Pocosin Biomass Pocosin biomass is currently an underutilized, renewable natural resource found in coastal North Carolina. Prescribed burning is used to reduce wildfire risk, but the volatile nature of pocosin vegetation and organic soils along with increasing coastal development in North Carolina makes the routine use of fire in these ecosystems risky. One solution is to sustainably harvest pocosin biomass to be burned for energy while simultaneously reducing wildfire risk. Currently, the cost of harvesting pocosin biomass outweighs its energy value. By extracting additional value from pocosin biomass, an economically feasible method of utilization may be developed. The purpose of this research is to investigate the possibility of increasing the value of pocosin biomass before burning for fuel by extracting and identifying essential oils and sugars present in it. Essential oils are most commonly used as flavoring and fragrance agents. Extracted sugars have the potential for conversion into ethanol as a bio‐fuel. Essential oils were extracted with a 50/50 mixture of benzene and ethanol in a Soxhlet apparatus and were analyzed using Gas Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry (GC‐MS). Sugars were removed using a hot‐water extraction followed by acid hydrolysis at elevated temperatures and pressures and were analyzed using a high performance anion exchange chromatograph. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.37 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 92 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium PHYSICS

Student Author(s): Nathanael Cox Laura Merrill Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Jennifer Burris Title of Presentation: Theory, Design, and Application of a Raman Spectroscopy System Raman spectroscopy measures changes in vibrational energies of molecules. It is based on the Raman Effect, a phenomenon in which light is inelastically scattered from a molecule and experiences a change in frequency due to the transfer of energy to or from that molecule. The energy difference between the incident and scattered light is characteristic of the vibrational or rotational energy of the molecule. The authors designed and built a Raman spectroscopy system capable of studying inorganic materials that has successfully detected a Raman signal. A schematic of this Raman system will be presented, as well as an explanation of the system component configuration. Recent developments in Raman Spectroscopy have led to new applications ranging from materials characterization to medical diagnosis. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.13 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Leigha Dickens Roger Letterman, Britt Tyler, David Lingerfeld Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Asheville Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Sally A. Wasileski Title of Presentation: Toward Fuel Cell Hydrogen from a Biorenewable Source: Analysis of Trends in the Conversion of Ethanol to Hydrogen Gas over Rhodium, Palladium and Nickel Catalysts Proton exchange membrane fuel cells have long been heralded as a clean and high‐efficiency electricity source, yet the technology remains just short of feasible because most are fueled by hydrogen gas. Hydrogen gas is not readily available from a natural source; as a gas, it is also volatile at room temperature and has a low energy density. Ethanol can be converted to hydrogen gas and is a strong candidate for a hydrogen source: because it can be stored in energy‐ dense liquid form, and because it can be synthesized from biomass. The use of a renewable resource to fuel already clean‐running fuel cells further promotes a dedication to environmental sustainability in emerging technologies. The mechanism to generate hydrogen from ethanol, called dehydrogenation, has been investigated using a computational approach. The various steps have been modeled using Rhodium, Palladium, and Nickel catalysts. The research presented here is a systematic investigation of how the ethanol fragment interacts with the catalyst surface to draw trends in the structure and energetics. Over Rhodium and Palladium, it is clear that the carbon atoms drive the binding of the molecule with the surface, while over Nickel the oxygen appears to play more of a role.

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 93 - NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.18 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Matthew Hylland Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Tonya Coffey Title of Presentation: Analysis on Nickel Plating and Stripping Using SEM and XPS We used high resolution scanning electron microscopy to image nickel plated samples with both high and low phosphorous content. We also obtained x‐ray maps of nickel plated samples that had been partially stripped. In the maps of the partially stripped high phosphorous content samples, we see pits and valleys that have no remaining phosphorous, although the nickel plating is still present. We believe that this indicates the nickel stripper preferentially attacks the phosphorous in the plate. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.25 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Brad Johnson Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Sid Clements Title of Presentation: Dust Mitigation Lunar dust has been a major issue with landing on the moon. This dust gets on clothing, viewports, radiators, hinges, and various other places. My research involved the mitigation of lunar dust particles. The major problem with lunar particles is that they get charged by the sun's ultraviolet rays. These charged particles attach to almost everything. If you try to brush these particles off, then the particles charge even more causing a bigger problem. We use electrostatics to move these particles. We use very high voltage and very little current so it takes power in the mW range. I worked at Kennedy Space Center over this past summer to improve the dust mitigation methods. I was able to move dust that is less than 10 microns in diameter under vacuum conditions. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.27 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 94 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Raheel Mahmood Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Gerald Cecil Title of Presentation: Linear effects of varying magnetic circuit design parameters of the alternating polarity homopolar stepper motor for application to Lord Corporation’s Electro‐Magnetic In‐ Flight Propeller Balancing System for U.S. Air Force C‐130 aircraft with 54H60 prope The effects of varying several design parameters of the magnetic circuit used in the alternating polarity homopolar stepping motor, a component of Lord Corporation’s electromagnetic active balancing system, were investigated. An active balancing system uses sensors, controllers, and counterweights to mechanically counteract rotational unbalance in rotating machinery. The rotor in each of the two motors in a balancer is a disk with alternating polarity pairs of permanent magnets along its circumference, which moves to position counterweights around the rotating shaft to which the entire balancer assembly is permanently attached. The rotor is encased between two stationary disks, each with steel poles along its circumference to complement each magnet pair on the rotor. The rotor is stepped by inducing a magnetic field across the poles by running current through an electromagnet coil assembly located outside the pole plates. In the absence of current, the permanent magnets on the rotor hold the rotor in a fixed position. Varying the distance between the coil and pole plates, and between the pole plates and rotor, as well as the shape of the magnets on the rotor and current through the coil, has measurable effects on the amount of torque required to displace the rotor. A compact linear assembly was designed and built to model the effects of varying the magnet shape, pole gap, coil gap, pitch, and current on the stepping and holding torque of the motor. Data collected from the linear model are graphically analyzed and compared to gain qualitative insight into optimizing design parameters to ensure maximum performance of the active balancing system. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.35 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Erik Minges Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina‐Wilmington Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Liping Gan Title of Presentation: Analysis Results for the PrimEx PbWO4 Crystal Prototype Detector Beam Test The PRIMEX experiment at Thomas Jefferson National Lab is to measure the lifetime of the π0 particle with high precision. This experiment is a very important test of Quantum Chromodynamics (the theory to describe the strong interaction). The decay photons from the π0’s were detected by a high resolution electromagnetic calorimeter (HYCAL) which consists of approximately 2000 channels of PbWO4 crystal detectors. One of the big experimental challenges was to understand the properties of this calorimeter. I was lucky enough to participate in an internship with my professor Dr. Liping Gan this past summer. My project was to study the calorimeter through analyzing the data of a 6x6 PbWO4 Crystal Prototype Detector beam test. This presentation will be a showcase of the project I worked on and my research experience as an undergraduate student at Jlab. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #15 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 10:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 95 - Student Author(s): Robert Oakes Classification: Senior College or University: Lenoir‐Rhyne College Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Peter Tkacik Russell Keanini; Nilabh Srivastava Title of Presentation: Imaging the Internal Dynamics of Supersonic Rocket Nozzles Supersonic rocket nozzles face many efficiency and performance issues. One of the more prevalent issues that supersonic rocket nozzles face are instabilities that are derived from flow separation due to asymmetrical pressure distributions. This issue arises from the use of a rocket nozzle in an environment that is not optimal for its nozzle expansion ratio; for example, at an altitude where the ambient pressure doesn’t correspond to the nozzles designed exit pressure. These instabilities drive the desire to research the internal dynamics of supersonic rocket nozzles, with the aspiration that these hindrances may be understood and minimized. The endeavor to construct a rocket nozzle that is capable of being experimentally imaged calls for research in two areas. One is rocket nozzle design: the design of a nozzle (primarily the area ratio and nozzle contour) determines the nozzle behavior corresponding to the chamber pressure. Depending on the design and external pressure, a nozzles performance can be optimal, over‐expanded, or under‐expanded. We seek to study over‐expanded nozzles and the separation disk with occurs internally. The second area that needs to be explored is a way in which to image the inside of the nozzle. Schlieren Imaging provides the ability to image density gradients and has been used in the past as an instrumental tool in imaging and studying shock. The technique of Schlieren requires a collimated beam of light to be passed through a test section; non‐uniform density can be observed in this view. The goal of this research is to mesh the areas of nozzle design and Schlieren imaging together to provide a visual in the form of high speed video and high resolution imaging that will contribute to the research of instability in supersonic rocket nozzles. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.40 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Adrian Perez James Kelly Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Chris Thaxton Title of Presentation: Evaluating the Thermal Sink Capacities of Pervious Pavement Urbanized, high gradient mountain streams are susceptible to flash conditions for flow and contaminants during rain events. Previous studies conducted at Appalachian State University have shown that thermal pollution may be a primary impact to sensitive trout streams, especially during frequent Summer afternoon storms. Rain water, heated by pervious surfaces such as parking lots and roof tops, runs off into the streams ‐ measurements of Boone Creek in Boone, NC, have shown thermal spikes as much as 6 degrees C within 15 minutes. One possible mitigation method of urban thermal contamination may be to employ pervious pavement at isolated points where runnoff collects in parking lots ‐ the runoff filters through the pavement and is then channeled to the storm water delivery infrastructure. This is a low cost alternative to paving an entire parking lot with pervious materials. Here, we assess the thermal sink capacity of such a scenario for a test site on the Appalachian State University campus. Initial results show modest reduction in effluent water temperature and validate the assumption that thermal sinks, when placed in storm water channel flow paths, buffer the stream from thermal spikes during rain events. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.41 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 96 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Jon Poe Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Steve Shapiro Rex Adelberger Title of Presentation: Feasibility of Electronic Long Baseline Radio Interferometry in Small College Setting We develop an electronic long baseline radio interferometer using two small radio telescopes, GPS antennae and long range wireless network in a small college campus setting. Radio telescopes are unaffected by the light pollution typically found in campus settings, because they collect data from sources other than optical light. By arranging two small radio telescopes as an interferometer, one obtains data comparable to that from a larger telescope with diameter equal to the distance between the two small telescopes. The purpose of this project is to determine the feasibility of this setup. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #19 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Renee Royal Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Asheville Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Brian Dennison Tim Giblin Title of Presentation: Intenstiy Time Evolution of Gamma Ray Burts Gamma Ray Bursts (GRBs) are intense flashes of gamma radiation observed at random times and in random locations across the sky. GRBs are currently understood by the collapsar model in which a massive star collapses to form a black hole + torus system. Relativistic bipolar jets are produced which erupt from the star as GRBs propagate into the interstellar medium (ISM) of the host galaxy. Variable pulse structure is observed due to shockwaves internal to the jet which is then decelerated by the ISM. I used the Swift GBR Table from NASA’s Swift Homepage to obtain dates of located GRBs. Then I used NASA’s online High Energy Astrophysics Science Archive Research Center to download prompt gamma ray emission data collected from the Burst Alert Telescope (BAT) instrument onboard NASA’s Swift observatory. IDL code was then used to create time evolution light curves to display the intensity of the GRBs through the afterglow phase. The research was specifically aimed to understand long‐lived “afterglow” radiation which follows GRBs at X‐ray, optical, and often longer wavelengths. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.47 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 97 - Student Author(s): Zach Russell S. Natarajan Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Phillip Russell J. T. Glass, C. B. Parker, K. H. Gilchrist, J. R. Piascik, and B. R. Stoner Title of Presentation: Development of a Micro‐Scale Mass Spectrometer ( µMS) utilizing Carbon Nanotubes (CNT's) and Microelectomechanical Systems (MEMS) fabrication technology. Mass Spectrometers are widely considered the best all‐around chemical sensor due to their sensitivity and their ability to detect a wide range of chemical and biochemical species. The size, cost, and power requirements of traditional mass spectrometers have limited their use to laboratory settings. Innovations in device miniaturization are instrumental for bridging the gap between laboratory applications and field use for these instruments. The goal of our work is to utilize Carbon Nanotubes (CNT's) and Microelectomechanical Systems (MEMS) fabrication technology, in conjunction with extensive charged particle simulation techniques, to miniaturize the physical dimensions of a manufacturable mass spectrometer for use as an easily portable, on‐site, real‐time chemical analysis tool. Potential applications for these “Micro Mass Spectrometers” (µMS) include chemical weapon field analysis tools for the military, ultra‐small research grade devices for lunar or Martian experimentation, or even household application for the detection of harmful airborne agents. The results of this work should reduce the total device size, cost, and power consumption of mass spectrometry by more than two orders of magnitude. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #16 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 10:45 AM

Student Author(s): Charlotte Schlesinger Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Chris Thaxton Brian K Hornbuckle Title of Presentation: Soil Surface Roughness Soil roughness, essentially a measure of the variation in height of the soil surface, is a significant parameter in several areas of research. The ability to collect accurate measurements of soil roughness is particularly important to passive microwave remote sensing. Passive microwave remote sensing measures the amount of microwave radiation emitted from the soil surface. The amount of radiation emitted depends on both the water content of the soil and the roughness of the soil surface. Accurately measuring the amount of moisture in the soil is an important step in quantifying the water cycle. If the roughness is not taken into account the remote sensing measurement will not accurately quantify the moisture of the soil. Accurate data about soil‐surface height and roughness can be gathered quickly using an instantaneous profile laser scanner. This project focuses on using the laser scanner to obtain soil roughness data. A small‐scale lab experiment was designed to examine the relationship between the total amount of precipitation accumulated and soil roughness. It was then compared with an existing model. A computer program was written in MATLAB to find the roughness of the soil, quantified as the standard deviation of soil surface height. It was found that soil roughness decreases as total precipitation increases. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.50 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 98 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Jeremy Sigman Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Asheville Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): John Stevens Title of Presentation: Mossbauer Study of Rare Earth Element Substitutions in Garnets Rare earth iron garnets are of interest to researchers both for their potential practical applications, such as their use in ultra‐high‐density storage devices, and for their capacity to improve our understanding of magnetism and crystallography. By substituting different rare earth elements into the garnet's crystal lattice, the garnet's magnetic and structural properties can be altered. With Mossbauer spectroscopy, small‐scale changes in the magnetic interactions between atoms resulting from the substitution of rare earth elements and of paramagnetic and diamagnetic ions in the crystal lattice can be observed. In this study, Mossbauer spectra for several garnet samples of type R1(1‐x)R2xFe(5‐ y)MeyO12 were analyzed. Each sample was either a standard yttrium iron garnet, a garnet with a different rare earth element substituted for yttrium in its dodecahedral sublattice, or a garnet with another cation partially substituted into one of its iron sublattices in addition to a rare earth cation substitution. Both room temperature and liquid nitrogen temperature Mossbauer measurements of each garnet sample were made, allowing for analysis of the effects of temperature change on the magnetic properties of each substitution scheme. With the collected data, the changes in magnetic and structural properties in each garnet sample at different temperatures were compared, and attempts were made to explain how different substitutions affect the magnetization of the material. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.68 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Sarah Suda Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Guoqing Tang Title of Presentation: Absorbent boundary conditions for wave propagation simulations using finite difference methods Wave simulations provide scientists across many disciplines with a way of visualizing waves and testing new theories. Expensive field tests can be avoided or guided by setting up simulations in a lab first. For example, geophysicists use seismic wave simulations to study the properties of underground materials for applications such as searching for oil. However useful, the numerical methods used to generate simulations cause the waves to be reflected at the simulation boundaries. The waves travel back into the simulation area and disrupt the data with interference. This is an ongoing problem and many studies have already reduced the reflections. In this study we use the finite difference method to approximate the acoustic and elastic wave equations. Boundary conditions developed by A. C. Reynolds (1978) were implemented with an added damping term to reduce boundary reflections for a wave centered in a rectangular domain. The combined damping and Reynolds boundary conditions were an improvement over the original Reynolds conditions. The corner reflections were greatly reduced, but an asymmetric anomaly was found in the edge reflections. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.55 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 99 - Student Author(s): Kristopher Vorren Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Asheville Major: PHYSICS Mentor(s): Joe Daugherty Brian Dennison Title of Presentation: Analysis and Visualization of Data from the Dedicated Interferometer for Rapid Variability At the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute in Rosman, NC, two 26‐meter radio telescopes are currently in the process of being linked together in order to work as an interferometer. This interferometer will be used for the dedicated study of extreme scattering events, which take place in the interstellar medium. My project focused on the correlator, an important component of the interferometer which synchronizes the signals from the two telescopes and averages out the background noise. Data from the interferometer was simulated using signal and noise generators. Software was developed to help visualize and analyze the simulated data. The images that were generated by the software suggest that correlator functions as it is intended to. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.73 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY

Student Author(s): Steven Brown Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): Gerald Cecil Title of Presentation: STUDY OF RAPID COMPUTATION OF GEOMAGNETIC CUTOFF RIGIDITIES AND IMPACT ON AIRCRAFT RADIATION EXPOSURE TO GALACTIC COSMIC RAYS AND SOLAR ENERGETIC PARTICLE EVENTS The earth’s magnetic field deflects radiation arising from galactic cosmic background radiation and solar energetic events away from the planet. The minimum momentum per charge needed to penetrate the magnetic field is known as the geomagnetic cutoff rigidity which impacts the amount of cosmic ray radiation within the atmosphere. Cosmic ray radiation has lead to a growing concern for commercial aircrew and passengers; therefore, there is a need to develop a real‐time model of radiation levels at commercial airline altitudes in order to provide critical data during solar energetic particle events with regards to airline crew management. The existing model must become more computationally efficient and is able to deliver real‐time estimates of radiation levels. The model may be improved by integrating a database of pre‐calculated components of the Earth’s magnetic field with which the model may interpolate. Using these databases, interpolations were performed at various points and their values compared to an explicit simulation to determine an appropriate grid to be used in the model. Once, integrated into the model, the time to compute a global grid of cutoff off rigidities is expected to be noticeably reduced. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.9 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 100 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Naomi Eckerd Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): Chris Thaxton Title of Presentation: A Survey of Bridge Structural and Functional Conditions in Watauga County, NC Over time, all bridges become either structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. Factors to consider in determining why and rate at which bridges deteriorate include but are not limited to original bridge design and intended use, construction methods, materials used, local soil properties and terrain, climate, and usage and maintenance histories. Most bridges in Watauga County span waterways as opposed to roads. The constant flow of the water, especially episodic high‐flow events, will cause premature weathering of the bridge footing and erosion of the surrounding banks. We present an initial analysis of the state of the bridges in Watauga County compared with the rest of the bridges in North Carolina and nationally. Further studies will include on‐site inspection and data acquisition of stresses found on select local bridges at various stages of degradation. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.14 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Nathan Faulks Tony Slagle, Andrew Cooper Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): James Sherman Title of Presentation: Atmospheric Aerosol Measurements using Cavity Ring‐down Spectroscopy Atmospheric aerosols are particles produced from dust, sea salts, and fossil fuel burning. These aerosols obstruct solar radiation as it travels through Earth’s atmosphere. My research makes use of the cavity ring‐down spectroscopy technique to determine the solar light extinction due to these atmospheric aerosols. Their effect varies from region to region, so multiple studies across the globe are necessary to determine their impact on climate. During the summer, I participated in the design and construction of an air‐sampling unit, and an opto‐mechanical train leading from a laser into a highly‐reflecting optical cavity. The instrument sends laser pulses into the reflecting cavity. As the intensity of each reflected pulse decays exponentially, we measure the amount of light attenuated by the aerosols. By the end of the summer, we finished all of the preliminary design and much of the construction. We are now in the process of completing the construction and testing, leading to its deployment at the Appalachian Institute for Atmospheric Research (AppalAir), located on ASU campus. It will then be combined with other instruments to study the impact of aerosols on our region’s climate. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.16 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 101 - Student Author(s): Christopher Flora Kelly Izlar Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): Jon Saken Title of Presentation: Looking for a Correllation Between Exoplanet Orbital Phase and Chromospheric Activity in HD149026 HD149026 is a young star slightly larger than our sun with an orbiting exoplanet about the size of Saturn. This exoplanet orbits very close to the host star, however, and completes an entire orbit in less than three days. Such a close orbit could cause a magnetic interaction (starspots or increased chromospheric activity) between the exoplanet and host star. These can be detected by measuring emission in the calcium H & K lines spectral lines. This summer we used the 32" telescope at the Dark Sky Observatory and the Gray‐Miller spectrograph to obtain spectra with 1.8 Angstrom resolution, which allowed us to analyze the core of the calcium H & K lines and look for periodic changes matching the exoplanet's orbit. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.18 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Joshua Kelley Adam Smith Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): Richard Gray Title of Presentation: An Eclipsing Binary Star in a Circumbinary Gas Shell I have been studying the star HD5501. HD5501 is an eclipsing binary star and shows spectroscopic signatures of a circumbinary gas shell. HD5501 has peculiar characteristics to its light curve that of great interest; at the bottom of both the primary and secondary eclipses and during ingress and egress the system flickers in brightness. Also, the hydrogen alpha line is in strong emission and appears to vary with the orbital period. My mentor and I have obtained extensive photometric and spectroscopic data for this system at the Dark Sky Observatory. I have been analyzing the light curve and the spectra and will present preliminary results on this interesting system. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.29 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 102 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Nick Pope Emily Mount, Sam Ronald Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): Toni Calamai Adrian Daw Title of Presentation: Design and Testing of a New Pulsed Electron‐Beam Delivery System The research I performed at Appalachian State's Ion Trapping Facility over the summer included computationally designing a new electron beam delivery system for our hydrogen trap, and simulating our nitrogen trap to essentially aid in troubleshooting the trap. Both simulation projects were done using Simion 8.0, an ion trajectory simulation package that uses a grid interpolation method to solve Laplace's equation for the electric potential. The new electron beam delivery system for the hydrogen trap would expand the spectral range of the photon detection apparatus and allow use to study more corrosive elements such as oxygen. The simulation for the nitrogen system is used to compare with experimental data to better understand the experimental trap parameters to improve the accuracy of the decay rates for singly ionized nitrogen, and to correct an underlining problem with obtaining our decay rate values for singly ionized nitrogen. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.43 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Ashley Roberts Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): Phillip Russell Donovan Leonard Title of Presentation: Characterization of Oxford Instruments’ Silicon Drift Detector Prototype on a Scanning Electron Microscope Oxford Instruments has provided our research group with a state‐of‐the‐art silicon drift detector prototype used for X‐ ray microanalysis. This project collected data over a range of elements and used the x‐ray detector on a scanning electron microscope as an analytical tool. Typical microanalysis parameters such as resolution, count rate, and spectral quality were evaluated for the Oxford prototype and compared to existing models. Background information on x‐ray microanalysis and its current uses in the scientific field will also be discussed, focusing particularly on the aerospace industry. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #18 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 11:15 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 103 - Student Author(s): Mark Schubel Summers Brennan, Josh Haislip, Adam Trotter, Brian Pohl Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): Dan Reichart Title of Presentation: GRB 080319B: Modeling the "Naked Eye" Burst Modeling Gamma‐Ray Bursts (GRBs) requires both rapid response and attention to detail. GRBs often only last several seconds, and in that time, one needs to be able to image the field, and then begin to quickly reduce and analyze the data to determine if the burst can be found, and then to begin to determine its brightness. This is especially true when a truly unique burst occurs, such as GRB 080319b. This burst, often referred to as the "Naked‐Eye" burst since it was so bright (~5th magnitude in R at peak) it could have been seen by the naked eye. We will discuss the process of getting this burst ready for modeling, including the prompt‐response by the PROMPT telescopes (which responded 32 seconds after the burst and had detections in UVRI), reduction in IRAF, field‐calibration and finally modeling the burst using Galapagos, a genetic‐algorithm powered modeling suite that can efficiently maneuver the multi‐dimensional parameter space to determine some of the environmental conditions of the burst, and shed some light on conditions of the early universe. NC Space Grant Scholar Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.66 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Sheel Shah Andrew Davis Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): Steven Meshnick Title of Presentation: Using the Birefingence of Hemozoin to Motivate a High‐Throughput Diagnostic Device Malaria infects 300 to 500 million people every year, resulting in over 1 million deaths annually. The vast majority of these cases occur in children, and malaria is currently the fourth leading killer of children in developing countries. A key challenge is not the lack of available treatment, but rather the ability to diagnose this disease inexpensively in areas where monetary resources and expertise are scarce, and other causes of febrile illness are common. To alleviate this disconnect, we are working on a novel new device that takes advantage of an optical property, known as birefringence, of the byproduct of the malaria parasite. We have found that this crystalline byproduct, called hemozoin, can rotate plane polarized light and therefore can be easily identified using polarized microscopy. Using this discovery, we are currently in the process of engineering a device that will diagnose malaria based on the presence of this crystal in a blood smear. The device will scan a sample of blood using a translational stage built using stepper motors and capture images of each new field. The images will be sent to a computer with an image analysis algorithm written using Java and ImageJ for analysis and diagnosis. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.67 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 104 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Dwight Springthorpe Sheel Shah Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): Robert Dennis Title of Presentation: Characterizing the Excitability and Contractility of Three Dimensional Muscle Constructs Grown In Vitro A quantitative understanding of the bulk excitability of skeletal muscle tissues is important for the design of muscle tissue bioreactor systems, implantable muscle stimulators, and other systems where electrical pulses are employed to elicit contractions in muscle tissue both in vitro and in vivo. We aim to investigate the bulk excitability of a three dimensional muscle construct grown in vitro using rat cell lines, which is termed a myooid. Excitability is characterized by a rheobase value, which is the electric field required to produce half‐maximal contraction force, and a chronaxie value, which is the pulse width required at the rheobase to produce half‐maximal contraction. A muscle stimulator circuit has been designed to deliver 40 V pulses to the myooid, which our previous work suggests is the optimal voltage in terms of the magnitude of the force produced. In addition, we are currently designing a force transducer using piezoelectric films that can resolve forces in the micronewton range. Our previous work also has shown that initially the myooid exhibits the excitability characteristic of neonatal rats. Using these new tools, we will be able to track the excitability of the myooid through various stages of development, from neonatal to adult phenotype in real‐time. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.69 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Elise Weaver Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY Mentor(s): Don Smith Dan Reichart Title of Presentation: Modeling Gamma Ray Burst 080710 Gamma Ray Bursts (GRBs) are the most energetic explosions since the Big Bang, and are thought to be the birth cries of black holes. They are often accompanied by an optical counterpart. From the optical counterpart we can model what is physically happening to the progenitor star. We localized GRB 080710 with three of UNC‐CH’s six PROMPT telescopes at CTIO in BVRI bands beginning 64 seconds after the initial trigger from the SWIFT satellite. We detected the optical afterglow starting 444 seconds after the trigger. We have measured how the afterglow brightened and then faded with time. We have 101 B band afterglow detections, 52 V band, 53 R band, and 104 I band detections. The light curve was calibrated to USNO B 1.0 and NOMAD catalogs, and a field calibration based on Graham fields is currently in progress. We predict that the data will fit a smoothly broken power law model. The data show that the fading after the break is more gradual than previously observed in other GRBs. We will present the brightness history of this unprecedented explosion and discuss the implications for the physical model of Gamma Ray Bursts. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #17 Room: Calloway Peak 137A Time: 11:00 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 105 - POLITICAL SCIENCE

Student Author(s): Victoria Mallett Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: POLITICAL SCIENCE Mentor(s): Kyle Dell Title of Presentation: Developing Perceptions Export Processing Zones (EPZ) are factories that are exempt from taxes on inputs and outputs, and export all of their products. Trade Agreements and Preference Programs have given companies the necessary incentives to expand EPZ into countries like Madagascar, one of the ten poorest countries in the world. The advantages for the companies of operating in EPZ zones is clear but little research has been done on the impact of these factories on the people of the EPZ countries, especially the factory workers. The purpose of this research project was to create a case study of a subsample of Madagascar factory workers and managers to capture the working life experience of an average worker using interview and observational methods. Findings from one week of factory observation, two interviews with government officials, interviews with five members of management, and interviews with 16 factory workers were analyzed for thematic content to gain insight into perceptions of factory workers’ lives. Specific attention was paid to rhetoric in each interview. Significant differences emerged in the perceptions of: 1) adequacy of wages and working hours; 2) macro‐economic benefits; and 3) working conditions. Findings and implications for the future of the EPZ in Madagascar are discussed. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #55 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 3:15 PM

Student Author(s): Danielle Peacock Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: POLITICAL SCIENCE Mentor(s): Richard Kearney Title of Presentation: Microcredit in Urban Food Security The correlation between poverty and hunger and the increasing urban population creates a world in which creative solutions are necessary to establish food security. While world food supply exceeds amounts necessary to fulfill the world’s nutritional requirements, hunger prevails in many geographic areas due to the lack of access to food. This paper examines microcredit as a method to increase the availability of food in impoverished urban areas with the research question, can microcredit be applied to urban agriculture to enhance urban food security? The paper explores microcredit and urban agriculture and applies them to Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, as a representative location. After examining several microcredit models, three are applied to Kinshasa as possible, yet imperfect, solutions. The Kinshasa Bank Model combines the previous three models in a new three‐step process for an appropriate solution for Kinshasa. The Model provides resources for urban agriculture in a sustainable and non‐dependent manner while conforming to the Food and Agriculture Organization’s Food for the Cities program. The paper concludes with additional benefits of microcredit in urban agriculture, research limitations, and areas for further research. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #54 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 3:00 PM

- 106 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium POULTRY SCIENCE

Student Author(s): Dana Hogg Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: POULTRY SCIENCE Mentor(s): Jason Shih Title of Presentation: Improved Nutritional Value of Commercial Feather Meals by Dietary Supplement Versazyme Versazyme™ (VZ), is a keratinase based feed additive discovered at NCSU and produced in large scale by BRI. VZ has been demonstrated as an effective feed additive that improves body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of broiler chickens fed the standard corn‐soy diet. VZ has also been shown to be effective on alternative sources of dietary crude protein such as cottonseed meal and feather meal. This experiment was designed to test the effectiveness of VZ on four different commercially available feather meals (FM). Diets were formulated to 19.3% crude protein in which 5% of soy bean meal (SBM) protein was replaced with FM. Each FM was mixed into 2 treatment diets with and without VZ at a 0.1% level for a total of eight treatments, (FM A,B,C,D +/‐ VZ) . A total of 384 day‐old male birds were used. Each treatment had 6 replicates and 8 birds per replicate. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Brooding temperatures and light cycle were controlled as the standard. At day‐21, birds and feed were weighed and BWGs and FCRs were statistically analyzed. The results were as follows. BWG was significantly improved (P<0.02) for birds fed VZ included diets (from 612.7 to 630.9) when compared with the non‐VZ included diets. FCR was improved for VZ included diets (from 1.55 to 1.53) when compared to non‐VZ included diets, but was not statistically significant. This comparison of four different industry standard FMs, determined that the quality of the FM source did not significantly affect the performance of VZ supplementation in the diets. VZ did have the effect of upgrading the nutritional value of any FM source and could potentially be utilized to reduce SBM inclusion rates in corn–soy diets or to at least augment alternative crude protein sources. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.29 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

PSYCHOLOGY

Student Author(s): Alicia Andrzejewski Classification: Junior College or University: Mars Hill College Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Katharine Meacham Title of Presentation: The Epistemologies of Women With Eating Disorders Eating disorders are an invisible epidemic in our society. Women everywhere are suffering silently. I want to spread awareness as well as present the problem from a different perspective. How do these women “know?” How does suffering from disordered eating affect their truths? The purpose of my presentation is to explore the epistemologies of women with eating disorders. I have compared the text Women’s Ways of Knowing The Development of Self, Voice, and

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 107 - Mind with research written throughout the years on eating disorders. The combination of the facts on eating disorders and the ways women know sheds some light on what causes and perpetuates disordered eating. The categories of knowing I will focus on are: 1) Received Knowledge: Listening to the Voice of Others 2) Subjective Knowledge: The Inner Voice 3) Subjective Knowledge: The Quest for Self 4) Construed Knowledge: Integrating the Voices The ability to prevent and treat eating disorders is real. Co‐operative work and understanding will begin the gradual healing process for all women in our society. Culture may shift or it may not but the individual mind has the power to overcome its overriding message. Women young and old need to know this. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #65 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 2:45 PM

Student Author(s): Matthew Barker Peter Domanico, Jeremy Bryant, Akiko Tamamura, Jessica Kinsaul, Cameron Massey Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Lisa Curtin Title of Presentation: Analysis of College Student Drinking Discussions The college environment is perceived as tolerant of heavy drinking (Ham & Hope, 2003), and students generally believe their peers drink more heavily than they actually do (Perkins, Meilman, Leichliter, Cashin, & Presley, 1999). Conversations about alcohol between college students may add to the perception of heavy drinking as normative. Undergraduate students (N = 95; average age = 18.6 years; 86% Caucasian), served as voluntary participants. Participants were asked to read three scenarios portraying a conversation between two people discussing a recent drinking experience highlighting drinking and consequences in a 1) negative, 2) positive, or 3) neutral manner. Participants were asked to choose from seven responses to each vignette: 1) how they would respond? 2) how the “typical college student” would respond?. Possible responses were based upon findings of a previous qualitative study and included expressions of concern (e.g., are you and your friends OK?), normalizing drinking the experience portrayed (e.g., that sounds like a lot of fun), or “you should have done something crazier”. Our college student participants reported they were more likely than the typical student to express concern about drinking, particularly in the discussion featuring negative consequences (76% of participants expressed concern vs. 36% for the “typical college student”). The “typical college student” was perceived as most likely to normalize drinking in a fictitious discussion depicting consequences in a positive/playful manner (90.5% perceived “typical college student” to normalize drinking experience vs. 56%). Finally, 25% of participants reported that the “typical college student” (vs. 2% for personal responses) would respond with “you should have done something crazier” to a discussion of moderate drinking with no consequences. These findings are nearly identical to those from a previous investigation that used an open‐ended response vs. forced‐ choice response methodology. Further investigation of the potential role of college student discussions about alcohol relative to maintaining perceptions of college as a heavy drinking environment are warranted. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.1 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 108 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Lauren Benoist Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Barbara Zaitzow Title of Presentation: DARE to Keep Punishment Just: Examining Alternatives to Corrections for Drug Addicted Offenders Over the past three decades, the United States criminal justice policies related to the "war on drugs" have had a significant impact on all aspects of our justice system. In parts of the country the congestion of drug charges in court dockets can be attributed, in part, to drug charges and has nearly caused a halt in criminal case processing. Prison populations are also reflecting the huge increase in sentencing disparities for drug crimes. The result has been alarming. In 2006, over 7 million people were on probation, in jail or prison, or on parole (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2006). State and local costs of incarceration as well as other penalties are increasing and, as communities develop and experiment with programs deemed less expensive than incarceration, it is incumbent on policy makers to assure that these programs actually deliver the services they claim. A need exists, therefore, to determine how to make programs accountable in providing services and reducing criminal recidivism. The purpose of this paper is to explore these issues with an eye toward alternative correctional options for drug‐addicted offenders. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #66 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 3:00 PM

Student Author(s): Jeremy Bryant Kelsey Hanger, Josh Lomonaco, Joshua Edwards Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Katherine Ledford Title of Presentation: Appalachian Speech and Its' Presentation in Today's Media The media is creating stereotypes that are being associated with Appalachian speech. We will be investigating the presentation of Appalachian speech and the media's portrayal of the area's language. To do this we will discuss Appalachian Speech and its' origins with many different people. Interviews will be held with local residents, students, and Walt Wolfram (a linguistics professor at NC State). Through the presentation of common media forms, we hope to illustrate the stereotypes that the media spreads. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP2.6 Room: Watauga River 102 Time: 2:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 109 - Student Author(s): Katherine Englund Crystal Edwards, Devin Gentry Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Asheville Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Melissa Smith Title of Presentation: Deception and Dissonance: The Social‐Cognitive Functions of Humor and Imaginary Playmates in Early Childhood This pilot study explores the relationship between humor, theory of mind (ToM), pretense, and presence of imaginary playmates (IP) in 4‐and 5‐year old American‐English speaking children. Early experiences with IP, as well as expression and exposure to humor, aid in the development of language, relationship concepts, and social cognition. However, the relationship among these areas, i.e., between a sophisticated use of pretense and humor has never been examined. The purpose of this study is to examine (a) whether children with IP have a more advanced understanding of ToM, pretense, and humor than children without IP (b) and if this understanding influences language usage, specifically talk about humor. Twelve children (mean age = 5.06 years) completed a battery of cognitive tasks at their homes, assessing their understanding of theory of mind, pretense, and humor. Primary caregivers provided information about their child’s play, including presence of IP. Methodological innovations include the use of stories to engage children in storytelling while incorporating cognitive tasks within the stories and play to promote laughter and talk about humor. Analysis focuses on whether humor provides a mechanism through which an understanding of false belief and deception develop. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #64 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 2:30 PM

Student Author(s): Holly Gunn Candice Lewis, Lang Ansink (assisted with administering surveys to students) Classification: Senior College or University: Chowan University Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Romey Peavler Title of Presentation: A comparative study of past trauma and traumatic effects among Chowan University students with other university students and the severity of current problems that may have resulted from the traumatic events. The Problem: The purpose of this study was to investigate: (1) the extent of traumatic events experienced by Chowan University students; (2) the severity of the effects of trauma; and (3) the reporting of traumatic events by students to university personnel. Method: A survey was administered to 350 Chowan University students concerning past trauma and current problems. Results: The first hypothesis, which predicted a similar number of traumatic events experienced by Chowan students as by students on other college campuses was supported. Likewise, the second hypothesis which predicted that the severity of current problems would reflect the level of traumatic events experienced was supported. The third hypothesis which predicted that reported traumatic events reported on the surveys were reported to campus officials and resources, was not supported. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #63 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 2:15 PM

- 110 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Justin Handy Classification: Senior College or University: High Point University Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Kimberly Wear Title of Presentation: Effect of Unpleasant and Pleasant Emotional Pictures on Recall of Peripheral Information The duplicitous nature of emotion?s memory‐enhancing effects is most pronounced in the salience of memory traces for central and peripheral information of arousing events (Christianson & Loftus, 1991). One explanation posits narrowed attentional resources toward emotionally‐arousing details limit our capacity to attend to peripheral details (Easterbrook, 1959). Consequently, memories for elements central to emotion‐inducing stimuli are enhanced at the expense of spatially separate information. In response, studies have focused on the effects of negative emotion on associative memory (Touryan, Marian, & Shimamura, 2007). The current study assessed associative binding of peripheral information not only in unpleasant affective scenes, but also pleasant (IAPS, Lang, Bradley, Cuthbert, 2001). Participants viewed scenes that included contextually unrelated clip art placed either centrally or peripherally. Memories for both the scenes and objects were assessed through object and picture free recall, in addition to a cued association task. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #58 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 1:00 PM

Student Author(s): Megan Harris Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Jenn Bonds‐Raacke Title of Presentation: Exploring Advertising in the Pharmaceutical Industry: Benefits and Risks One of the fastest growing areas of advertising is the pharmaceutical industry. For example, $6 billion is spent annually by the pharmaceutical industry to promote its products and in the year 2000, $1.7 billion dollars were spent on drug advertising on television alone. Drug advertisements on television occur in 14% of adult prime‐time shows for prescription drugs and 50% of adult prime‐time shows and 43% of popular teen shows for over‐the‐counter drugs. The purpose of this research is to review literature on how prescription drugs are advertised on television and in magazines. This presentation will discuss the advantages of drug advertisements (such as increased consumer involvement in their own treatment options and encouraging consumers to ask physicians about specific drugs available) and disadvantages (such as potential confusion about the risks of specific drugs and potential tension between patients and physicians). Next, the presentation will explore differences in consumer responses to drug advertisements. Specifically, age, sex, and socioeconomic differences will be discussed. Finally, the relationship between the FDA and the history of drug advertisements will be investigated. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.27 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 111 - Student Author(s): Matthew Howard Kari Baker, Kim Jaffe Classification: Sophomore College or University: University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Rebecca Burdine Title of Presentation: Determination of the Nature and Timing of L‐R Patterning Processes during Zebrafish Organogenesis Congenital laterality, or left‐right (L‐R) patterning defects, occur once in every 8,500 live human births, mostly resulting in poor viability and decreased longevity, especially when these defects relate to the heart. However, little is known about the mechanisms by which they occur and influence development. Within L‐R patterning of the Zebrafish heart, evidence suggests that two components of its Nodal signaling pathway, Southpaw (spaw), the Nodal responsible for L‐R patterning and lefty2, the downstream antagonist of spaw, play crucial roles in the genesis of cardiac asymmetries. These asymmetries are characterized by two main events called jogging and looping. Jogging refers to the elongation and lateralization of atrial and ventricular myocardial cells into a heart tube. Looping then orients the ventricle to the right of the atrium, forming a chambered heart. Understanding that both genes are expressed during early asymmetric morphogenesis, we analyzed cardiac phenotypes associated with absent Nodal, induced by Nodal‐inhibiting drug SB‐ 505124, establishing a set of time points during which expression of spaw and/or lefty2 is required for proper laterality. We find that while Nodal is required between 14 and 20‐somite stages to correctly establish cardiac asymmetries, signal inhibition after jogging has occurred does not affect the looping direction. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #59 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 1:15 PM

Student Author(s): Sabrina Leshore Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): John Raacke Title of Presentation: Juror Decisions: Does Empathy, Socialization and Court Case Play a Role In this presentation, I will propose a project in which I will attempt to show how the empathy levels and socialization levels of jurors impact their verdict on court cases. In addition, this project will also assess whether the aforementioned variables change in regards to the type of criminal trials that are presented to potential jurors; arson, murder, kidnapping, and burglary. To begin, the project will start with a review of relevant research over empathy and socialization. Specifically, the review will focus on research which measures the relationship between empathy and socialization. Following this review, the project will discuss the research on these two topics in juror research. Once the relevant literature has been discussed, I will propose a project to examine the previously cited variables. Specifically, a 2 (juror gender) x 4 (trial type) mixed subject design will be used to evaluate the impact of empathy levels and socialization levels on final juror verdict. Predicted results for the study will be presented with possible impacts on juror selection given the expected outcomes of the proposed study. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.43 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 112 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Emily Marcinowski Kevin Swartout Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Greensboro Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Jacquelyn White Title of Presentation: The Behavioral Activation System and Sexual Aggression in a Sample of Male Undergraduates The literature has found that certain personality characteristics may contribute to the formation or aggravation of sexual aggression (Segarra, Ross, Pastor, ontanes, Poy & Molto, 2007; Theriault & Holmberg, 2001). The Behavioral Activation System (BAS) has been related to impulsivity, which has also shown to be related to sexual aggression (Segarra et al, 2007; Theriault & Holmberg, 2001). The goal of this study was to see the relationship between BAS and sexual aggression. Forty‐three undergraduate males filled out a demographic form, the BIS/BAS Scales, and the Male Sexual Experiences Survey. The BIS/BAS Scales measure BIS and three subscales of BAS: the Fun Seeking, the Reward Responsiveness, and the Drive scales (Carver & White, 1994). Preliminary analysis using a one‐way ANOVA revealed that the total BAS score was significantly related to threatening use of force and giving drugs/alcohol to the victim. Fun Seeking was found to be significantly related to giving drugs/alcohol to the victim (F=4.472; p=.041); Reward Responsiveness was significantly related to threatening use of force (F=6.601; p=.014) and close to significance in giving drugs/alcohol to the victim (F=3.9; p=.055) and using force (F=3.195, p=.081). Further statistical analyses may reveal more relationships between BAS and sexual aggression Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.36 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): Kelly Niccum Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): John Raacke Title of Presentation: NASA’s Constellation Program: Preparing for the Psychological Challenges This project will explore the environmental extremes that come with living and traveling in outer space. Specifically, I will be discussing the psychological challenges that will come with the development of a moon station and a manned trip to Mars as part of the NASA Constellation Projects. I will be including not only how this extreme environment impacts a person’s abilities but also ways to minimize the effects of any unforeseen psychological challenges. First, I will start with a description of the moon and Mars; including information regarding size, distance, rotation, temperature, etc. Second, I will discuss the cognitive and physiological factors that will be affected by people living and traveling in and to these two environments. In particular, I will discuss the effects of isolation, training, decision‐making, and stress on people’s ability to navigate these environments. Finally, I will end the project with suggestions on how to overcome these environments and keep the aforementioned impacts to a minimum. Specifically, I plan to discuss issues in regards to adequate training, decision‐making drills, and training in isolation. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.53 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 113 - Student Author(s): Kelly Niccum Jorge Piocuda Classification: Junior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Jenn Bonds‐Raacke Title of Presentation: Sorority Boys and Summer Catch: Exploring college student portrayals in the media Previous research has noted that college students are negatively portrayed in the media. For example, college students are often portrayed as spending limited time in class activities. However, in actuality, most college students spend 15 to 18 hours per week in class plus additional time spent studying in the evening and on weekends. Another negative portrayal often depicted is that college students engage in excessive partying and drinking behaviors. Again, this is not necessarily an accurate depiction of all college students. In this poster, we conducted a content analysis of the popular movies Sorority Boys and Summer Catch to find the positive and negative portrayals of college students depicted in each. The stereotypical portrayals we found were parallel with the previous research in terms of little time in an academic setting and excessive time partying. In addition, we also found stereotypical portrayals related to frequency of sex and maturity level. The non‐stereotypical portrayals found in this project include being independent, intelligence, and different standards. Results are discussed in light of how these portrayals may influence public opinion of college students. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.54 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Kyra Osinski Meagan Carpenter Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Jenn Bonds‐Raacke Title of Presentation: Dora the Explorer: Exploring the Positive and Negative Effects of Children’s Programming For this poster, we will discuss the effects of children’s programming. Today’s children have plenty of television geared specifically for them, found on stations such as Nickelodeon and the Disney Channel. Younger children may view Nick Jr. or Playhouse Disney in the morning, while programs for older children are shown in the afternoon and evening. Most programs for young children are educational, especially those shown on Noggin, which claims to be “like preschool on TV” and accompanies each show with an explanation of its benefits. The prevalence of this could be a result of 1990s lawmaking that required educational programming to be aired at least three hours a week. Its effects on young viewers include a decrease in the creative process because imaginative storylines replace the viewer’s own imagination. For young teenagers, most of their programming involves fantastical plots involving secret rock stars and web show stars. Controversy has resulted from the antics of the actors, including teenage pregnancy. This poster will review research documenting the positive and negative effects of children’s television programming. The poster also contains a content analysis of popular children’s television shows and concludes with suggestions for parental involvement. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.56 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 114 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Kyra Osinski Jorge Piocuda, Kelly Niccum, and Meagan Carpenter Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Pembroke Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Jenn Bonds‐Raacke Title of Presentation: Gender Stereotypes in Disney Movies: Are you a Prince or a Princess? In this poster, we will discuss and analyze the occurrence of gender stereotypical and non‐gender stereotypical portrayals in Walt Disney films. The following movies were viewed: “Aladdin,” The Emperor’s New Groove,” “Peter Pan,” and “The Little Mermaid.” While viewing the films, each group member was asked to recognize these stereotypes. Gender stereotypes included gender roles, male and female body image, the contrast between the strong male and the weak female, and the concept of same‐sex friendships. Non‐gender stereotypes included male‐female friendships, the misconception of the male attitude, and dominant women. After distinguishing the stereotypes, we found that many of them occurred in each of the four films, even though they had separate plots. In a study conducted by Towbin et. al. (2003), findings suggested that gender as well as cultural and racial stereotypes have been persistent in Disney movies over time This suggests that gender stereotypes are prevalent in the media, specifically Disney films. By combining previous research and our observations, we plan to emphasize the occurrence of gender portrayals in Disney movies and discuss the possible consequences on children of such portrayals. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.57 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Myra Reid Samantha Finkelstein, Lane Harrison Classification: Senior College or University: University Of North Carolina At Charlotte Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Tiffany Barnes Title of Presentation: Computer Game or Lecture: Does Format Matter? Modern students are increasingly using technology in every part of their lives, but classes are still using lectures and written materials for learning. We are building a game that connects learning to speak to a computer with learning to recognize and create facial expressions for emotions, a skill that is challenging for people who are socially awkward or have special needs. We hypothesize that students can better learn computing principles using an interactive game rather than via book format. To that end, we will compare learning for students using our interactive educational game with a paper‐based lesson in two groups. Group A will receive the written and then the game lesson while group B first receives the game and then the written lesson. The groups’ performances will be measured using a pre‐test and two post‐tests, one after each lesson. We believe that group B will perform better than group A on both post‐tests, demonstrating that learning via interactive computer game can be more effective than through written lessons. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.62 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 115 - Student Author(s): Lyudmila Trost Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Lucinda Payne Amy T. Galloway, Claire V. Farrow Title of Presentation: The associations between balanced and varied foods, involvement, and healthy weight for children in the US This study aimed to find associations between children’s healthy weight and nutrition. Child height and weight were measured to calculate Body Mass Index percentiles (BMI%). The Comprehensive Feeding Practices Questionnaire (CFPQ) was given to mothers of 13 children from 4 to 6 years of age (M = 5 years, SD = .52), 9 girls and 4 boys. The subscale for involvement examines child participation in family meal planning, shopping, and preparation. The subscale for balance and variety measures how often parents promote well‐balanced, healthy and varied foods. Sample children had a healthy weight status (M = 43.69, SD = 22.64). Unexpectedly, this relationship demonstrated a positive correlation with higher levels of involvement associated with higher BMI%, r (13) = .28, ns. As predicted, a diet high in balance and variety was correlated with lower BMI%, r (13) = ‐.15, ns. Increased involvement was positively correlated with increased balance and variety, r (13) = .20, ns. Children who were involved in meal planning and preparation had higher BMI% than less engaged children. As anticipated, increased balance and variety correlated with decreased weight. This study also demonstrated an increase in involvement related to an increase in balance and variety of foods. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #62 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 2:00 PM

Student Author(s): Matt Williams Molly Milroy, Seth Hewitt, Christi Ponder Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Keatherine Ledford Title of Presentation: Steep Slope Development: A Focus on Boone, NC. The project began as an assignment in our class with Dr. Ledford, Appalachian Studies 2401. Over the past month, our group has researched steep slope development's general history in the area. I would like to point out that the amount of information in our project wouldn't be possible without Appalachian State University's extensive Appalachian collection, provided by the Belk Library, at our disposal. The subject featured in the presentation is Boone's more recent history of steep slope development. Our goal in focusing on Boone specifically is to contribute to the knowledge on the subject, and shine a spotlight on the current issue at a local level. The overall goal for our project is to report on the subject of steep slope development in Boone with as little biased as possible. We attempt to accomplish this by interviewing several popular viewpoints surrounding the subject; for example, an interview with a local who was active in the debates surrounding steep slope development regulations in Boone. The presentation will also include specific maps and pertinent information provided by the U.S. geological survey database. The video will last approximately six minutes, and will contain voice‐over narration preformed by members of the group. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP2.2 Room: Watauga River 102 Time: 10:30 AM

- 116 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Tracey Wright Princess Grimes, Lauren White Classification: Senior College or University: Peace College Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Betty Witcher Dawn Dillon, Korrel Kannoy Title of Presentation: Emotional Intelligence and Success in College: The freshman experience Examining Emotional Intelligence (EI), academic success, and adjustment of students transitioning from high school to college is the purpose of this study. Parker, Duffy, Wood, Bond & Hogan (2005) found variables that relate academic success and retention with adjustment issues. It is hypothesized that students’ EI will increase over the first‐year and those with higher EI will have higher GPA’s and report better adjustment. During the summer, 189 female, full‐time students completed the Baron (2006) Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ‐i;125). During the fall semester, students attended 2 Adventures classes each week. Emotionally intelligent curriculum was implemented in this college orientation program designed to enhance first‐year students’ adjustment to college. At the end of the course, students completed the College Adjustment Test (Pennebaker, Colder & Sharp, 1990) that assesses homesickness, general negative affect, and optimism. Other measures (e.g., HSGPA, SAT, deficiencies) will be obtained and comparisons will be made to the previous year’s class to assess the effectiveness of EI training. Regression analyses will be performed to determine whether EI predicts academic success. It is hoped that addressing EI will provide a new way to approach academic performance and retention. Further research could explore EI change by retesting students upon graduation. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #60 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 1:30 PM

Student Author(s): G. Byron Zelenak Classification: Senior College or University: Guilford College Major: PSYCHOLOGY Mentor(s): Kathrynn Adams Title of Presentation: Examining the Impact of Gender and Gender Role Conflict on Preferences for Help‐ Seeking Building on past studies, which examined multiple factors that influence an individual’s decision to seek or forego treatment for a mental health crisis, this study replicated that of Magovcevic & Addis (2005) with a more diverse participant pool. In addition to measuring the openness of males and females to help‐seeking, perceptions of the effectiveness of traditional therapy and personal coaching were examined. Results showed that Gender Role Conflict scores were higher for men than women with the Success, Power and Competition, and Restrictive Affectionate Behavior Between Same Sex subscales accounting for the greatest differences. There was, however, no gender difference in openness to help‐seeking. Alcoholism was perceived as a more significant problem than depression. Also, coaching was rated as more appropriate for treatment of alcoholism, but rated as less effective than therapy, overall. Self‐stigma was shown to have a prominent role in the decision‐making process of help‐seeking, but results suggest that multiple factors influence the perceived need of treatment. Findings imply that mental health education and emphasizing the choices available when seeking help are important. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #61 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 1:45 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 117 - PUBLIC POLICY

Student Author(s): Anne Beaubrun Classification: Senior College or University: Duke University Major: PUBLIC POLICY Mentor(s): Martin Mwangi Title of Presentation: Fabrication and Application of Functionalized Polymers for Site‐Isolation of Palladium Catalysts Reactions carried out in a predefined sequence (cascade reactions) have been difficult to achieve in one vessel without the requisite reagents and catalysts poisoning one another. The successful use of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) thimbles and membranes to site‐isolate catalysts from the reagents by the Bowden Group forms the basis of the discussed work. Palladium catalyst was site‐isolated using nitrile‐containing PDMS. The nitrile coordinates to the palladium offering a temporary trap for the catalyst. This is important because the site‐isolation of palladium without the formation of the unreactive palladium black presents a remarkable opportunity to recycle expensive catalyst and significantly reduce the amount of solvent waste produced in the process. Palladium black formation while site‐isolating the palladium catalyst was tested under varying reaction conditions. The effect of the catalyst to ligand ratio was also investigated. The oxidation of an alcohol was optimized using occluded catalyst and the results applied to pot‐in‐pot reactions. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.3 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

RECREATION & PARKS MANAGEMENT

Student Author(s): Daniel Ellis Classification: Sophomore College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: RECREATION & PARKS MANAGEMENT Mentor(s): Jason Bocarro Title of Presentation: A Study Analyzing Motivations and Satisfactions of Student Volunteers in Recreational Events The purpose of this study was to analyze students’ perceptions of their volunteer experiences. The study specifically focused on volunteer experiences within park and recreation settings (including recreation special event programs). The outcomes of this research attempted to determine the primary motivations of student volunteers as well as how satisfied these volunteers were with various aspects of their volunteer experience. Understanding more about volunteer motivations will help in both volunteer retention and recruitment. The research utilized a modified version of Trogdon’s (2005) volunteer functions inventory (VFI) to provide a basis for the motivation survey statements. A modified version of Ellis et al.’s (2001) job satisfaction scale was also used to provide a basis for the satisfaction survey statements. The study was limited to North Carolina State University students enrolled in the Spring of 2008 in the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management Department. Surveys were distributed to 631 students via an online survey. Analysis of the results was then performed using SPSS 16.0. One hundred and thirty five students responded. The results from this

- 118 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium research study indicated that student volunteers in recreational events are motivated by three main factors: values (5.5130), career (5.1944), and learning (5.1870). The lowest scoring motivational factors included protection (3.5704), the program needs me (3.722), and benefits to people I know (3.8691). The research study found that student volunteers as a whole were fairly satisfied with their volunteer experience, with the most satisfaction relating to coworkers (5.6096), supervision, (5.5090) and operating procedures (5.4805). The lowest scoring satisfaction dimensions were contingent rewards (5.1081), communication (5.2297), and nature of work (5.3153). The results should be interpreted with a degree of caution, however. First, the response rate was lower than anticipated. Second, this survey was delimited to NC State students enrolled in a traditional park and recreation curriculum. However, these results from this preliminary study suggest that an effort should be placed toward improving the level of interaction among student volunteers and coordinators in order to ensure that the assigned task is both enjoyable and beneficial for the student based off of his or her employment aspirations. Based on the outcome of this study, coordinators should also provide students with more recognition and gratitude for their work. This study may provide student volunteer coordinators with a more complete understanding of how to provide student volunteers with an experience that will satisfy their career, values, and learning goals. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.15 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Student Author(s): William Swing Josh Youngman, Evan Snipes Classification: Senior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: RECREATION & PARKS MANAGEMENT Mentor(s): Eric Frauman Erik Rabinowitz Title of Presentation: An Investigation of Environmental and Social Ethics Among Boulderers Bouldering has become very popular in recent years partly because it is a cheaper, more convenient form of rock climbing and requires little gear (no ropes or hardwear) and thus little financial investment. The purpose of this research was to discover what environmental and social ethics are being practiced by “boulderers” to aid public land managers responsible for balancing the needs of recreation groups with conservation. An electronic survey was created and posted on two climber websites March 2008. One hundred and fifty three usable surveys that included behavior‐based items (e.g., Do you pack out your trash) and demographic questions were collected. Analysis revealed that boulderers are pretty responsible both environmentally and socially at climbing sites with the exception of dog owners letting their dogs off leash and the prevalent use of chalk. Boulderer’s stay up‐to‐date on closures. Of the small percentage of boulderer’s who break off rock to reveal new handholds, they also are more likely to brush off vegetation from rocks and rest their climbing pads on dense vegetation, while those with more experience are more likely to scrub off chalk and pack out others trash. Public land managers, particularly those responsible for frontcountry areas that cater to many user types, should take some comfort in knowing that boulderer’s are fairly responsible. Continued efforts by climbing advocacy groups and local climbing organizations should be made to help educate the new legion of boulderers competing for limited climbing resources. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #57 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 3:45 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 119 - RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Student Author(s): Jessica Blanford Classification: Senior College or University: Mars Hill College Major: RELIGIOUS STUDIES Mentor(s): Marc Mullinax Kathy Meacham Title of Presentation: Would Jesus Kill Hitler?—Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Theology of Grace and Obedience and How He lived it Out! Most people believe in order to receive a reward, one must work first. After all, our mothers told us dessert, went to those who finished dinner. In the religious realm, “good” deeds first, then God will grant you mercy. However, what if mercy and grace comes first, and then our assignment? A reward, then actions? Dessert, then dinner? What if grace comes first, then obedience? This can get very political. Many people in history have risked their lives obedient to a cause because of what they feel is a claim by God upon their lives. During World War II, Dietrich Bonhoeffer took the call to serve his country to the ultimate level, becoming involved in a conspiracy to assassinate Adolf Hitler. With others, Bonhoeffer, a Lutheran minister, enabled this assassination attempt and as a result was caught, imprisoned, and executed. Bonhoeffer’s ideology was obedience as a response to God’s grace. What makes Bonhoeffer different from or better than the suicide bombers of 9/11? Using Bonhoeffer’s Cost of Discipleship, other theologians, and Biblical texts, I will engage the thorny question of how to live in obedience, while changing the world and risking one’s life in the process. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #32 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 11:15 AM

Student Author(s): Jason Villegas Classification: Junior College or University: Chowan University Major: RELIGIOUS STUDIES Mentor(s): Larry Frazier Title of Presentation: Religious legitimations of the Third Reich, coming from the German, Protestant Reich Church Many people have heard of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the so called 'Confessing Church' that sprung up against the Nazi regime in World War II Germany. An institution that is much less known is the Protestant Reich Church. Springing up nearly a decade before the United States entered into the World War II, this was the Nazi supported state church in Germany. As a young religious institution, it drew ties between itself and early protestant Martin Luther. As the Church grew stronger, it published a two key documents that outlined the most important beliefs. Antisemitism and supremacy were two key Reich Church beliefs. Hitler and the German military were seen as saviors in this Church's ideals. As time went on, almost all Reich Church ideals mirrored the Nazi agenda. Leaders of the Church worked closely with the Hitler and his officials, and they eventually became government controlled. As the Church went from being self‐sustained to government controlled, it eventually became weaker as an institution. By the end of the World War II, the church would eventually fail. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #33 Room: Attic Window 137 C Time: 11:30 AM

- 120 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium SCIENCE EDUCATION

Student Author(s): Kayla Cummings Classification: Sophomore College or University: Robeson Community College Major: SCIENCE EDUCATION Mentor(s): Louis McIntyre Jennifer Brown Title of Presentation: Bridging the Biotechnology Gap in Public Schools Bridging the Biotechnology Gap in Public Schools Robeson Community College (RCC) is the proud recipient of a three– year federal grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). With the funds from the NSF, RCC was able to form the Robeson Regional Biotech Education Consortium (RRBEC). One of the goals of the RRBEC is to improve the technical and pedagogical biotechnology skills of educators of secondary and post‐secondary students in southeastern North Carolina. The Public Schools of Robeson County (PSRC) is a county‐wide public school system with some 21,993 students enrolled in 43 schools. The PSRC is one of the largest school systems in North Carolina. The student population consists greatly of underrepresented and minority groups. Teachers with the Public Schools of Robeson County participated in a series of professional development workshops in the area of Biotechnology. The workshops were designed parallel to the North Carolina Standard Course of Study in an effort to provide activities that could be easily integrated in the classroom. Teachers learned hands‐on activities in order to actively engage students in the learning process. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.17 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

STATISTICS

Student Author(s): Stephanie Bruns Jason Leone, Jamie Pearce Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: STATISTICS Mentor(s): Bill Hunt Title of Presentation: Will Global Warming result in More Wildfires? The effects of global climate change are becoming increasingly more pertinent throughout the world. As wildfires continue to ravage our northwestern states, one must question whether there is a predictable underlying relationship. Our research project focuses on examining wildfire and climate data for the United States with the hope of answering the question of whether wildfires can be predicted from meteorological data. The research will use exploratory statistical analysis to monitor trends in past wildfires, as well as environmental and climate factors in order to determine favorable conditions for wildfires and develop a wildfire forecasting model. The data will be collected from various databases: the International Panel on Climate Control (IPCC), the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), the National Climatic Center, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Emission Inventory. Through our research, we hope to develop a more accurate prediction model than the U.S. EPA’s current 5 year average. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.8 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 121 - Student Author(s): William Rice Jennifer James and Camille Clark Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: STATISTICS Mentor(s): William Hunt Title of Presentation: Crustal Matter: Exploring the Differences Between Ambient Air Samples and Emissions Inventory Fine particulate matter (PM fine) is a complex mixture of tiny particles of solids and liquids suspended in the air. PM2.5 consists of particles that measure 2.5 micrometers in diameter or less, and is composed of sulfates, metals, crustal matter, and other elements. The main source of PM2.5 comes from the combustion or burning of fuels via power plants, industries, and motor vehicles. Scientific studies have identified the following health problems to be associated with high exposure to PM2.5: aggravated asthma, chronic bronchitis, and even premature death. National emissions inventory has been using 31.4% to describe the ratio of crustal matter to total PM2.5, while ambient air samples suggest a lower ratio. This study is being conducted to better understand the discrepancy between emissions inventory estimates and actual measurements from ambient air samples, as well as improve the accuracy of the current ratio being used. Ambient air samples are taken from Speciation Trends Network (STN) sites and Interagency Monitoring for Protected Visual Environments (IMPROVE) sites. Previously it has been discovered that higher ratios exist in the West compared to the East, and in the South verses the North. Work currently being conducted shows that taking the log of the crustal matter and PM2.5 measurements, normalizes the data and allows assumptions associated with regression to be met. We are furthering this analysis by incorporating meteorology and harvest data with the transformed data. This work will result in recommendations on how to “adjust” the emissions inventory so that it more closely agrees with ambient air samples, which may improve the air quality management process. It is critical to explore this discrepancy so that U.S Environmental Protection Agency, along with state and local environmental agencies, will take necessary action to use the most accurate ratio. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.44 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

TEXTILE CHEMISTRY

Student Author(s): Andrew Peacock Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: TEXTILE CHEMISTRY Mentor(s): Ahmed el‐Shafei Title of Presentation: Molecular Modeling, Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Symmetrical Bidentate Photosensitizers for Solar Cells Molecular Modeling, Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Symmetrical Bidentate Photosensitizers for Solar Cells Peacock, A. and El‐Shafei, A. Polymer and Color Chemistry Program, North Carolina State University Campus Box 8301, Raleigh, NC 27695 Abstract A novel symmetrical bidentate photosensitizer (dye 1) was synthesized, and characterized using UV‐Vis absorption spectroscopy and MS, and its excited state life time was measured using Time‐

- 122 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Correlated Single Photon (TCSP) counting technique. The absorption spectrum of dye 1 shows a unique combination of absorption bands through the visible and near‐infra red (NIR) regions. Dye 1 was adsorbed onto nanocrystalline TiO2 electrodes, and its performance in solar‐to‐electric conversion was measured and compared to the bench mark Z‐910 dye. The absorption spectra of the novel dye (dye 1) and its intermediates, and Z‐910 dye predicted using ZINDO/S parameters were in good agreement with their experimental absorption spectra. The protocol of predicting the absorption spectra of dye 1 and Z‐910 dye was developed and validated in our laboratory and will be used in the design of other novel and efficient photosensitizers for solar cells. Type of Presentation: Exhibit #E1.3 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION

Student Author(s): Shannon Canady Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Investigating customer satisfaction and employee turnover rate in the restaurant industry: The case of O’Charley’s. Investigating customer satisfaction and employee turnover rate in the restaurant industry: The case of O’Charley’s. Shannon Canady Restaurant turnover is becoming an accepted problem in the restaurant industry. Employee turnover figure in the hospitality industry is 50% according to the US Bureau of Labor, enough to make employers think about the tangible and intangible costs of employee turnover. Turnover rate affects the customer service‐dependent areas of the business. When somebody quits that means more work for the remaining employees, trying not to take away from customer service. A study shows hospitality companies with low turnover rates report higher customer satisfaction and higher profits. O’Charley’s believes in “building a winning team by strengthening the management at all levels of the company”. This is where it starts in order to improve employee satisfaction and in turn customer service. Also achieving high guest satisfaction is another high priority strategic focus of O’Charley’s. For example “A Passion to Serve” is one of the strategies. It stresses on building customer loyalty as the most important factor for success. Also O’Charley’s uses this to measures bonus plans. This results in lower turnover rate and higher guest satisfaction. References: Retrieved from www.Media‐corporate.com Retrieved from www.1888articles.com Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #20 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 10:00 AM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 123 - Student Author(s): Brittany Crocker Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Exploring the importance of diversity in the lodging industry This research explores the concept of diversity in the lodging industry and its importance. The hospitality and tourism industry is one of the largest international industries, and possibly becoming the most diverse. With most lodging establishments becoming internationally known and international travel growing, diversity is a key element to success. From the costumers to the employees diversity works throughout. Companies are now operating training programs to create awareness, and forging relationships with diverse universities and interest groups. Marketing diversity is becoming a value driver to gain costumers loyalty. The travel and tourism is creating an experience that fits the vacationer. For example, Hotels are creating rooms for handicapped and people of short stature. Hotel industries are becoming more aware of the big percentage of diversity that isn’t being included in the marketing world, so hotels found a way to recruit the gap that was missing. The answer was to recruit people who mirror today’s consumer and then train them. The industry can only prosper by growing its diversity throughout. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #46 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 1:00 PM

Student Author(s): Laura DiNunzio Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Effects of Global Warming on the Restaurant Industry The restaurant industry is a volatile industry which is constantly affected by the global and local environment and market. The only way to fully understand what is going on is to do a full environment scan; scanning ecological, economic, political, socio‐cultural, and technological effects. Così was chosen as a way to create a link between the environment and the restaurant industry. Così was a perfect choice because it is a company that is growing and still trying to find its niche in the restaurant industry. The main topic focused on in the paper was global warming and how it will affect the restaurant industry in the future. The paper also linked major factors affecting the restaurant industry to global warming such as: urbanization, renewable energy, wheat prices, and air and water quality. Global warming is caused by changes in ocean circulation, increased CO2 levels, solar variations, orbital variations, land use changes, and human activity. Global warming has already caused an increased risk of rising seas, flooding, severe storms, extreme heat, and drought. The goal of this paper is to analyze global warming and its future effects and relate it to the restaurant industry and to assist restaurateurs in understanding global warming. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #21 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 10:15 AM

- 124 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Ashley Galleher Brian Pike, John Capone, Adam Pendlebury Classification: Junior College or University: Appalachian State University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Katherine Ledford Title of Presentation: All‐terrain Vehicle Usage in the Southern Mountains Our group is putting together a short documentary film for our Introduction to Appalachian Studies course. Our topic focuses on All‐terrain vehicle usage in the North Carolina mountains and the issues surrounding it. These issues include environmental impact, usage of public lands for riding, public perception of ATV riders, and resources available for ATV riders. The documentary will feature an unbiased presentation of the controversies surrounding ATV usage. Type of Presentation: Performance #CP2.4 Room: Watauga River 102 Time: 1:00 PM

Student Author(s): Jessica Hilton Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Diversity. Is it important is the hotel industry? The Case of Hilton Corporation. The hotel industry is continuing to grow everyday and in order for hotels to remain successful they have to keep up with their competition and keep up with what is going on around them. Hotels are doing their best to keep satisfying their customers and remaining loyal by doing what they promise. Hilton has built a reputation of quality, value, integrity and strength. Diversity is very important in the hospitality industry, because of the traveling we do today, all over the world. Close than half of the Hilton employees are minorities and women. They provide diversity training programs at all levels of hotel operations from introduction of diversity at orientation to line level team members, to general management specific training. Hilton tries to focus on identifying top performers in the field and nurturing internal line level talent within the organization. Hilton appreciates the unique perspective and talent that each and every individual brings to the organization. Their diversity reflects and values the contributions of all employees. The goal of this research is to explain how hotels are doing their best to succeed in today’s environment. Hotels are doing their best to keep up with current trends, keeping diversity within their company, and by helping the environment as much as possible. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #47 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 1:15 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 125 - Student Author(s): Anthony Ingle C. Jordyn Reed Classification: Junior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Environmental Sustainability in the US lodging industry through High Hampton Inn and Country Club Environmental sustainability is a major trend in the U.S. lodging industry. Resources are being depleted and a more environmental conscience travelers are leading the change to more eco‐friendly establishments. The High Hampton Inn & Country Club is a private establishment nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. High Hampton consists of 1400 acres, offering 120 guest rooms which are located in the main Inn or in one of the various cottages scattered over the property. High Hampton was established in 1922 and has been catering to the public ever since. High Hampton has a tradition of not offering modern amenities. They do not offer television, telephone, or air conditioning in any of their rooms. By today’s standards these exclusions are extremely rustic and outdated, but still guests return year after year. By interviewing the general manager, owner, and returning guests we can judge the sustainability of the environment High Hampton is situated. The guests and owner have agreed that the major reason why guest return to High Hampton is the beautiful natural resources that High Hampton is located in. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #22 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 10:30 AM

Student Author(s): Colby Kinder Holly Jones Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Benihana and the World Around It The restaurant industry has suffered dramatic impact due to the recession in the economic environment and the political turmoil in today’s society. This project focuses on Benihana as an individual competitor in the restaurant industry. In the past 40 years, the teppanyaki styled Benihana’s is one of the largest Asian chain restaurants in the United States. Their continual concerns of food safety stem from the new trends in the economy today. The use of chemical pesticides and genetically altered plant and animal by‐products has raised havoc to the environment. Although all of these problems seem to be a continual driving force; the desire for prestige in the social lifestyle causes society to neglect the responsibility to the environment. Another driving force for the changes in the world of Benihana includes cultural, local, and psychological aspects. In order to combat these impacts on the industry, the management team of Benihana has proven capable of the brand fundamentals and continues to stay true to the Benihana experience. This project explores the dynamics of Benihana and how it interacts with the environment around it. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.31 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

- 126 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Brian Robinson Jessica Huffman Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Magic of Branding; A Disney Tale Disney is one of the leaders in globally recognized companies due to the brand image it possess. The mouse ears can be seen on plates in Hong Kong or a hat in Mexico, we will be discovering the power of branding on consumers and the hospitality industry as it relates to their buying power. The concept of branding is significant to the hospitality industry; most consumers select a certain hospitality brand that they feel has better experience over the others, competitive advantage, and will tend to patronize the company. Due to the fact that the hospitality industry is one of the oldest industries in the world companies need to focus on increasing market share not market size. They need to utilize technology and industry forces to increase the market share of the company which in turn will increase the brand loyalty of consumers. This will increase the profits. The Disney Company uses different strategies to increase loyalty of their consumers by exposing different markets to images that are associated with the company. Disney reaches markets by the use of advertising techniques such as exposing a variety of demographics to varied Disney operations that may appeal to a range of demographics. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #48 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 1:30 PM

Student Author(s): Preston Rolfes Evan Lindsey Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Forces Driving Change in the Hospitality Industry Regarding Marriott “Forces Driving Change in the Hospitality Industry regarding Marriott” Abstract: There are several major factors in the hospitality industry that are forcing the industry to make changes. One of the major factors that is driving change is the green movement. People who are using hotels and traveling a becoming more environmentally aware. The entire industry is being forced to make changes in all aspects of their companies. The Green Movement and people’s awareness of global warming have forced many companies to make changes and keep their energy usage low. Other factors driving change in the hospitality industry are economic factors such as people having less disposable income to spend on recreation. The rise in oil prices in the recent years and also hurt the Hospitality Industry by reducing the amount of travel that consumers are willing to do because of the cost of gasoline. Also, with the way the economy is at this time, the unemployment rates are rising in the United States. All of these factors force Marriott Inc. to make major changes. Marriott has to keep up with these changes in society and the industry to continue to be successful in their business for years to come. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.45 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 127 - Student Author(s): Jessica Walker Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Biltmore Estate's Competitve Strategy using Vanderbilt's Vision Biltmore Estate, the world’s largest home in America. Some would wonder why it is such a big deal. The Estate was formally owned and constructed by George Vanderbilt for the purpose of a bachelor pad. The Estate gradually grew and improved and was opened to tourist to visit in 1930 to offer a wide variety of activities to its guest. Today the Estate is still owned by Bill Cecil Jr. The question is, how has the Estate sustained its popularity for over six decades and what will it do to continue to sustain itself as a privately owned, profitable working Estate? Biltmore has a strong brand, culture, as well as missions and organizational goals. The company is very serious about the knowledge and training of their staff. The employees are taught the eight core values which are essential to the company including community service, integrity, teamwork and more. Biltmore service strategy relies on the philosophies created by Mr. Vanderbilt himself and the company uses those goals to govern the company today. Biltmore’s relies on their staff to provide their guest with the best experience possible. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.74 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Student Author(s): Mary White Meredith McNeill Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Investing Critical Forces Driving Changes in the US Lodging Industry Our economy’s current state is causing the lodging industry to struggle due to gas prices, GDP, and global warming. Today, the nationwide average for regular gasoline is about $3.08 a gallon. The national record of regular gas prices were at an all time high back in July of 2008, averaging $4.11 a gallon (Gas Price Trends). “AAA predicts fewer Americans will travel this Memorial Day weekend compared to last year; the first decrease in travel since shortly after the September 11 attacks” (Austein). Affecting the price of both road and air travel. If prices continue rise the negative effects will be felt more than ever. Global warming is another critical force driving change in the US lodging industry. According to Christopher Boyd with The Orlando Sentinel, “Going green is the number one trend in the hotel industry...hotels and resorts across the globe are latching on to this trend” (News for the Hospitality Executive). In the hospitality industry the implications of green for the consumer include: eco‐travel, eco‐hotels, green buildings, eco‐ friendly interior design, and hybrid vehicles. For example, Juergen Christmann, chief engineer at the Intercontinental Hotel in Hilton Head, applied some basic conservation concepts and ended up saving the hotel $350,000 of its $1 million annual energy costs without affecting guest comfort (Hotels Going Green, 3). With more research and more findings of the global warming issue, we can spread awareness to people worldwide. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.75 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 128 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Alana Wilson Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Childhood Obesities affects on the Fast Food Industry Childhood Obesities affects on the Fast Food Industry In today’s society between 16‐17% of 2‐19 year olds are obese. The phenomena of fast food chains and their cheaper food, faster have people’s eyes spinning. If America does not wake up and see that foods need to be healthier or our children are going to be chronically obese. Restaurants, like Chipotle Mexican Grill are forging the storm on these fast food chains with their healthier happier concepts. Hormone free foods are where all the health begins, from the start. Chipotle Mexican Grill is taking over restaurants like Wendy’s, Taco Bell and Burger King in certain areas of the United States. By using local farmers and growers Chipotle is still able to keep costs low enough to compete with the fast food prices while offering a fast casual atmosphere. Chipotle Mexican Grill is the answer to the fast food problems causing childhood obesity. The goal of this paper is to introduce Chipotle Mexican Grill as an up and coming fast food phenomena of healthier proportion and taste. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #49 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 1:45 PM

Student Author(s): Kristen Wolf Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Cruise Industry: Molding to Become Even Better The cruise industry around the world is growing at a fast pace. Each year there are new ships added onto existing fleets and creating an environment of spectacular service and excitement for every guest. Each cruise has a different goal or mission for what they reach for in providing for the guest. Some cruise lines reach out to more family oriented vacations revolved around fun and activities for all ages, while others will aim towards providing luxury services for couples or newlyweds. With the cruise industry growing in great numbers, the corporations are able to widen their views and missions on what they want to achieve through the travel of this population. They are always strategizing new and different ideas and even taking others ideas and molding them into their own. By achieving and brainstorming these new strategies we are able to identify how the cruise industry is growing in corroboration with the economy. The goal of my research is going to elaborate on these factors that affect the industry positively and negatively. Type of Presentation: Poster #P2.64 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 129 - Student Author(s): Jamie Xiao Classification: Senior College or University: Western Carolina University Major: TOURISM & COMMERCIAL RECREATION Mentor(s): Kyuho Lee Title of Presentation: Competitive Strategy of Yum! Brand China In recent years, the U.S. economy has been undergoing a recession, and this has affected consumer spending in all areas, including restaurant dining. Many restaurants and chains have survived the ongoing economic situation by expanding internationally Yum Restaurant Corporation is in the development of International Market. For example, it is very important for us to learn how they have expanded into and are doing in the Chinese market in order for other chains and businesses that start in the U.S. to become more globalized. Thus, we could also say that if more restaurants go global, it will in turn help the U.S. economy and world economy. My goal is to find out Yum!’s integration with the Chinese culture; environment; politics; and people. After readers learn about Yum! Brand’s strategies, they will gain a new level of understanding of how restaurants go global and become more knowledgeable about it. They also might be able to pick up some strategies if they decide to take any of their own restaurants global in the future. Type of Presentation: Oral Presentation #50 Room: MacRae Peak 137B Time: 2:00 PM

ZOOLOGY

Student Author(s): Beth Hall Katherine McHugh, Michelle Borsz, Martha Divver, Mauricio Carrasquilla, Brittany Martabano, and Kerry Foltz Classification: Senior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: ZOOLOGY Mentor(s): Katherine McHugh Title of Presentation: Examining the behavior and sociology of the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) across its distributional range The Sarasota Bay bottlenose dolphin population is of the most extensively studied and well‐documented populations within this species. Dr. Randall Wells initiated what is now known as the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program in Sarasota, Florida over thirty years ago and continues to monitor the population. I worked on the project of PhD candidate, Katherine McHugh, addressing the behavioral development and social dynamics of juvenile bottlenose dolphins in Sarasota Bay. The juvenile stage is important for the formation of stable associations and for the practice of social and survival skills. The project’s fieldwork involved boat‐based surveys and included photo‐identification, data recording, and spatial analysis for all dolphin sightings. Two‐hour follows were conducted on focal juveniles and both instantaneous sampling at three‐minute intervals and continuous sampling were used for recording behavior. After gaining extensive training and knowledge of behavior among the Sarasota bottlenose dolphins, I wish to further examine the behavioral differences across similarities across populations. The bottlenose dolphin has a wide distributional range, with a population in the Moray Firth, Scotland representing its northern extreme. I have developed a formal proposal for graduate research that will target this high latitude population in Moray Firth to assess the behavioral development of calves. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.26 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

- 130 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Student Author(s): Sarah Jones Sarah Kocher Classification: Junior College or University: North Carolina State University At Raleigh Major: ZOOLOGY Mentor(s): Christina Grozinger Title of Presentation: Natural variation in pheromone response correlates with reproductive traits and gene expression in honey bees In honey bees (Apis mellifera), the reproductive queen produces a pheromonal signal that regulates many aspects of worker behavior and physiology and is critical for maintaining colony organization. The queen produces a pheromonal signal (QMP) that performs several functions, including inhibiting worker reproduction, attracting workers from a short distance, and altering brain gene expression in workers. There is significant variation in worker retinue response to QMP both among colonies and within a colony, but the molecular and physiological basis for this variation has not been characterized. I examined two traits associated with developmental plasticity and reproductive potential ‐ ovariole number and expression levels of an egg‐yolk precursor protein, vitellogenin. I found that individuals with a low attraction to QMP had more ovarioles and vitellogenin, suggesting that bees with higher reproductive potential are more likely to become laying workers. These workers may be attempting to escape queen control. Next, I looked at a previously identified queen pheromone receptor, AmOR11, to examine whether differences in pheromone perception were simply due to differences in the ability to detect the pheromone. There were no sequence or expression differences in AmOR11, suggesting that the differences in QMP attraction are probably controlled by central brain processing. Type of Presentation: Poster #P1.37 Room: Roan Mountain 120 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

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Originating as a companion to the State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities Symposium, Explorations offers the opportunity for undergraduates at any 2- or 4-year college or university across the state to be published in a peer-reviewed journal and showcase their exciting work.

We are seeking research papers or Feature Stories (literature/research reviews, articles written on a particular topic) or media submissions of performing/fine arts endeavors.

The Journal of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities for the State of North Carolina will be published primarily online, providing opportunities for a variety of text and media submissions in the following disciplines:

• Humanities • Biological, Earth and Physical Sciences • Social Sciences • Math • Technology and Engineering • Performance Arts • Visual Arts and Design • Business and Legal • Creative Writing and Discourse

Deadline for Submissions: May 1, 2009

For instructions to authors and the submission process, please visit our website at www.explorationsjournal.com

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 133 -

Acknowledgements

Thank You to the Generous Sponsors of SNCURCS 2008:

Thank You to the Generous Sponsors of SNCURCS 2008:

- 134 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium SymposiumSymposium Statistics Statistics

Institution # of presentations Appalachian State University 59 Catawba College 2 Chowan University 3 Duke University 3 East Carolina University 6 Fayetteville State University 2 Symposium Statistics Guilford College 13 1 High Point UniversityInstitution # of presentations Jack Britt High SchoolAppalachian State University 59 1 Lenoir‐Rhyne CollegeCatawba College 2 2 Chowan University 3 Mars Hill CollegeDuke University 3 7 Nash Community CollegeEast Carolina University 6 3 Fayetteville State University 2 7 North Carolina A & T State UniversityGuilford College 13 North Carolina School of Science and MathematicsHigh Point University 1 7 North Carolina State University At RaleighJack Britt High School 1 28 Lenoir‐Rhyne College 2 Peace CollegeMars Hill College 7 1 Pfeiffer UniversityNash Community College 3 5 North Carolina A & T State University 7 3 Queens University Of CharlotteNorth Carolina School of Science and Mathematics 7 Robeson Community CollegeNorth Carolina State University At Raleigh 28 3 Salem CollegePeace College 1 3 Pfeiffer University 5 Southeast Raleigh High SchoolQueens University Of Charlotte 3 1 University Of North Carolina At AshevilleRobeson Community College 3 8 Salem College 3 10 University Of North Carolina At Chapel HillSoutheast Raleigh High School 1 University Of North Carolina At CharlotteUniversity Of North Carolina At Asheville 8 5 University Of North Carolina At GreensboroUniversity Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill 10 8 University Of North Carolina At Charlotte 5 University Of North Carolina At PembrokeUniversity Of North Carolina At Greensboro 8 18 University Of North Carolina‐WilmingtonUniversity Of North Carolina At Pembroke 18 5 University Of North Carolina‐Wilmington 5 14 Western Carolina UniversityWestern Carolina University 14 Winthrop UniversityWinthrop University 1 1 T o t a l Total 229 229 229 total presentations, students from 26 colleges and 3 high schools 229 total presentations, students from 26 colleges and 3 high schools

The OfUice of Student Research at Appalachian State University would like to thank the 2VVW SNCURCS Program Planning Committee: Mr. Eric Koontz (School of Music), Dr. Rahman Tashakkori (Computer The OfUice of Student Research at Appalachian State University would like to thank the 2VVW SNCURCS Science), Dr. Mark Zrull (Psychology), and Dr. Tony Calamai (Interim Dean College of Art and Sciences). Program Planning Committee: Mr. Eric Koontz (School of Music), Dr. Rahman Tashakkori (Computer Science), Dr. Mark Zrull (Psychology), and Dr. Tony Calamai (Interim Dean College of Art and Sciences).4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 135 - Notes

- 136 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Notes

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 137 - Notes

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4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 139 - Index of Student Presenters

first NAME LAST NAME...... Pages first NAME LAST NAME...... Pages Jennifer Abelin...... 7, 48 Caroline Cochrane...... 9, 27 Francina Abengowe...... 7, 22 Shantakiya Cohen...... 8, 50 Ahamad Abuadas...... 7, 48 AdriAnne Cole...... 9, 78 Clare Adams...... 7, 23 Michael Colgan...... 7, 28 Erica Adelman...... 7, 79 Seth Congdon...... 7, 28 Hannah Ainsworth...... 59 Taylor Courier...... 7, 86 Margaret Allen...... 9, 63 Nathanael Cox...... 9, 93 Alicia Andrzejewski...... 9, 107 Brittany Crocker...... 9, 124 Bellanov Apilli...... 9, 63 Kayla Cummings...... 7, 121 Matthew Barker...... 9, 108 Andrew Davis...... 104 Joshua Bartel...... 7, 23 Leigha Dickens...... 7, 93 Jason Bartlett...... 9, 45 Laura DiNunzio...... 7, 124 Anne Beaubrun...... 9, 118 Shavonne Dixon...... 7, 29 Phillip Behrns...... 7, 61 Peter Domanico...... 108 Lauren Benoist...... 9, 109 Katelyn Doran...... 7, 64 Binny Bhandary...... 9, 24 Joseph DuBose...... 12, 87 Jessica Blanford...... 7, 120 Cesar Duque...... 8, 69 Stefanie Boenig...... 9, 49 Naomi Eckerd...... 9, 101 Jenna Bone...... 9, 18 Charles Edens...... 8, 80 Matthew Boulos...... 7, 75 Daniel Ellis...... 9, 118 Katherine Bridges...... 7, 24 Katherine Englund...... 9, 110 Benjamin Brockhoff...... 9, 86 Michael Eni...... 7, 64 Ashley Brooks...... 7, 79 Cassie Erwin...... 9, 46 Nathan Brown...... 12, 87 Aaron Fann...... 12, 88 Steven Brown...... 7, 100 Nathan Faulks...... 9, 101 Stephanie Bruns...... 9, 121 Samantha Finkelstein...... 9, 65, 115 Stephen Bryant...... 9, 25 Anjelea Fisher...... 8, 72 Jeremy Bryant...... 12, 108, 109 Meghan Fitzgerald...... 9, 29 Nickolas Buchanan...... 7, 25 Christopher Flora...... 9, 102 Branyun Bullard...... 7, 43, 71 Jesse Fox...... 8, 30 Domonique Bulls...... 7, 26 Ashley Galleher...... 12, 125 Shawn Burns...... 10, 69 Stephen Garner...... 8, 73 Eric Butter...... 7, 61 Donna Gilchrist...... 9, 51 Jennifer Byrd...... 9, 26 Gerald Gordner...... 9, 81 Shannon Canady...... 7, 123 Carla Gray...... 9, 76 Maegan Canha...... 28, 49 Benjamin Gray...... 9, 51 John Capone...... 125 Holly Gunn...... 9, 110 Zena Cardman...... 9, 27 Beth Hall...... 8, 130 Meagan Carpenter...... 114, 115 Linwood Hall...... 7, 77 Bethany Carter...... 7, 49 Catherine Hammond...... 9, 44 Nikki Caruso...... 12, 68 Justin Handy...... 9, 111 Jenny Celin...... 9, 29, 80 Megan Harris...... 8, 111 Dana Chapman...... 7, 72 Lane Harrison...... 9, 65, 115 Ashley Clark...... 9, 50 Tamir Hasan...... 8, 13

- 140 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium Index of Student Presenters

first NAME LAST NAME...... Pages first NAME LAST NAME...... Pages Hannah R. Hawkins...... 10, 17 Katie Lewis...... 19 Tamra Henderson...... 43 Evan Lindsey...... 127 Jessica Hilton...... 9, 125 Sarah Locklear...... 8, 54 Dana Hogg...... 8, 107 Brittany Locklear...... 8, 19 Edward Hooper...... 9, 52 Aaron Locklear...... 10, 62 Brandon Hounshell...... 23 Whitney Lohmeyer...... 7, 13 Matthew Howard...... 9, 112 Iner Lowery...... 7, 54 Robert Howington...... 8, 30 Raheel Mahmood...... 10, 95 Stephanie Hughes...... 9, 52 Victoria Mallett...... 9, 106 Barbara Hugl...... 7, 81 Emily Marcinowski...... 10, 113 David Hunt...... 12, 88 Steven Martin...... 7, 66 Matthew Hylland...... 9, 94 Andrew Martin...... 10, 92 Anthony Ingle...... 7, 126 Rhonda McClure...... 7, 35, 56 Jacqueline Irwin...... 8, 75 Kate McGinnis...... 10, 77 Kelly Izlar...... 102 Alexander McKenzie...... 10, 36 Kristyn Jackson...... 9, 53 Meredith McNeill...... 128 Jasamine Jackson...... 8, 66 Nick Merrill...... 8, 55 Daniel Jackson...... 8, 31 Laura Merrill...... 93 Thiesen Jacob...... 8, 53 Komi Messan...... 8, 84 Edwina Joe...... 8, 31 Beth Migliaccio...... 8, 19 Brandon Johnson...... 7, 70 Miranda Miles...... 30 Brian Johnson...... 8, 14 Erik Minges...... 7, 95 Brad Johnson...... 9, 94 Kimberly Moore...... 8, 55 Holly Jones...... 126 Marvin Morales-Jacinto..... 8, 36 Sarah Jones...... 8, 131 Eric Morris...... 73 Bashir Kamara...... 30 Kimberly Moseley...... 8, 56 Donna Kamarei...... 8, 83 Eva Mowry...... 12, 89 Anju Karki...... 9, 32 Tiara Murphy...... 59 Sarah Keasey...... 25 Anwar Nassor...... 8, 20 Joshua Kelley...... 9, 102 Elizabeth Nemitz...... 9, 91 Kathleen Kennedy...... 8, 15 Kelly Niccum...... 8, 113-115 Trace Kessler...... 8, 18 Vansana Nolintha...... 12, 16 Asif Khan...... 9, 32 Robert Oakes...... 10, 96 Nicolas Kiely...... 8, 83, 85 Michael O’Brien...... 19 Wisun Kim...... 8, 82 Andrew O’Keefe...... 12, 89 Joo en Kim...... 7, 33 Jillian Osborne...... 8, 37 Colby Kinder...... 10, 126 Kyra Osinski...... 8, 114,115 Elizabeth Kohler...... 10, 16 Lara Ostapiej...... 8, 67 Lieselotte Kreuk...... 10, 33 Tiffany Pan...... 7, 15 Kevin Lambirth...... 8, 34 Sung Park...... 8, 21 Shannon Landvater...... 10, 34 Andrew Peacock...... 2, 122 Tiffany Lee...... 7, 35 Danielle Peacock...... 9, 106 Jason Leone...... 121 Michael Pearce...... 7, 14 Sabrina Leshore...... 8, 112 Jamie Pearce...... 121

4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium - 141 - Index of Student Presenters

first NAME LAST NAME...... Pages first NAME LAST NAME...... Pages

Jason Pearson...... 8, 84 Matthew Stillwagon...... 8, 21 Adam Pendlebury...... 125 Ryan Sturdivant...... 10, 57 Adrian Perez...... 10, 96 Sarah Suda...... 10, 99 Katrina Pergerson...... 7, 37 William Swing...... 9, 119 Brian Pike...... 125 Sina Tashakkori...... 7, 22 Jorge Piocuda...... 114, 115 Zahrah Taylor...... 9, 47 Steven Pires...... 10, 73 Patrick Tenorio...... 10, 85 Jon Poe...... 7, 97 Morgan Thompson...... 10, 42 Nick Pope...... 10, 103 Leslie Thompson...... 10, 41 Tyler Rauch...... 45 Andy P. Tran...... 9, 58 Lindsey Rearigh...... 8, 34, 38 Lyudmila Trost...... 9, 116 C. Jordyn Reed...... 126 Hannah Utley...... 89 Myra Reid...... 8, 65, 115 Matthew Vanhoy...... 7, 74 William Rice...... 10, 122 Ryan Vary...... 8, 58 Justin Ritchie...... 8, 70 Jason Villegas...... 7, 120 Ashley Roberts...... 7, 103 Kristopher Vorren...... 8, 100 Rachel Roberts...... 7, 74 Jessica Walker...... 8, 128 Brian Robinson...... 9, 40, 127 Jack Walleshauser...... 18 Afton Rogers...... 8, 46 Nicholas Walter...... 10, 43 Preston Rolfes...... 10, 127 Lisa Walters...... 71 Derek Routhier...... 10, 56 Nick Walters...... 57 Lucinda Rowe...... 10, 17 William Watson...... 12, 90 Renee Royal...... 10, 97 Elise Weaver...... 7, 105 Zach Russell...... 7, 98 Caitlin Webb...... 10, 62 Alexandria Rutkovsky...... 10, 43, 57 Joshua Wheeler...... 10, 76 Yosuke Sakamachi...... 31 Mary White...... 8, 40, 128 Cheston Saunders...... 10, 38 Chelsea Whittaker...... 89 Charlotte Schlesinger...... 10, 98 Alexandra Wiedemann...... 8, 78 Deanna Schmidt...... 8, 39 Jason Wilkes...... 84 Brian Schroeder...... 46 Matt Williams...... 12, 116 Mark Schubel...... 8, 104 Rhea Williams...... 10, 59 Tiffany Scott...... 62 Lindsay Willis...... 7, 43, 71 Sheel Shah...... 8, 104, 105 Isaac Wilson...... 10, 59 Rosemary Shay...... 7, 39 Hilary Wilson...... 9, 44 Marlana Sheridan...... 10, 40 Alana Wilson...... 9, 129 Armah Shiancoe...... 10, 45 Robert Brandan Wilson...... 20 Evelyn Siergiej...... 9, 67 Kristen Wolf...... 10, 129 Jeremy Sigman...... 8, 99 Tracey Wright...... 9, 117 Parteek Singla...... 9, 40 Heather Wright...... 7, 71 Amanda Smith...... 9, 90 Jamie Xiao...... 9, 130 Wesley Springs...... 9, 83, 85 Kimberly Zeigler...... 89 Dwight Springthorpe...... 8, 105 G. Byron Zelenak...... 9, 117 Adam Steiner...... 10, 91 Darren Zhu...... 9, 60 Norah Stevens-Kittner...... 8, 41

- 142 - 4th Annual State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium