131St Annual Academy Program Book

Final Program 131st Annual Academy Meeting Saturday, March 26, 2016

Indianapolis, Indiana

Anthropology • Botany • Cell Biology • Chemistry • Earth Science • Ecology • Engineering Environmental Quality • Mathematics • Microbiology and Molecular Biology • Physics & Astronomy • Plant Systematics and Biodiversity • Science Education • Zoology and Entomology The Indiana Academy of Science has been an important voice of Indiana science since its inception in 1885.

The Indiana Academy of Science continues to enjoy a high professional stature with a membership that includes many of the states’ leading scientists from industry and academia, science educators, and science graduate and undergraduate students. It is a non-profit organization with a threefold mission:

1. promoting scientific research and diffusing scientific information 2. encouraging communication and cooperation among scientists 3. improving education in the sciences

The Academy accomplishes its mission by providing opportunity for scholarly exchange through the Annual Academy of Science Meeting – showcasing the research and scientific work of Indiana’s scientists, science educators, and Indiana graduate and undergraduate college students; as well as that of invited nationally recognized scientists and others whose work is related; publishing the celebrated Proceedings of the Indiana Academy of Science, the biannual journal of peer reviewed papers authored by Indiana’s scientists (and scientists from the Midwest) --in circulation since 1885 in print, and available online since 2012; publishing books and special publications and the quarterly Academy Newsletter; awarding Indiana Academy of Science Senior Research Grants to Academy members and graduate and undergraduate science students; awarding the Indiana Academy of Science Winona Welch Award for Botanical Biodiversity Research Grant; awarding Indiana Academy of Science Junior Research Grants to support the efforts of Indiana high school students; engaging Indiana high school students in science education programming; partnering with the Indiana community organization to reach greater Indiana with public education; and conducting Bio Blitz field studies.

Officers: Council:  President — Michael Homoya  Michael Homoya (President)  President-Elect--- Darrin Rubino  Darrin Rubino (President-elect)  Secretary — Vanessa Quinn  Vanessa Quinn (Secretary)  Treasurer — Michael Finkler  Michael Finkler (Treasurer)  Immediate Past President-Arden L. Bement, Jr.  Arden Bement, Jr. (Immediate Past President)  Stan Burden (Chair, Foundation)  Daniel Bauer (Chair, Research Grants)  Delores Brown (Executive Director)  Horia Petrache (Member at Large, 2018)  Alice Long Heikens (Member at Large, 2016) Section Leadership  Anthropology: Robert Mahaney (Chair); Helen Brandt (Vice Chair)  Botany: D. Blake Janutolo (Chair); Darrin Rubino (Vice Chair)  Cell Biology: Jennifer Kowalski (Chair); Eric (VJ) Rubenstein (Vice Chair)  Chemistry: Jennifer Holt (Chair); Mahamud Subir (Vice Chair)  Earth Science: James Farlow (Chair); Soloman Isiorho (Vice Chair)  Ecology: Jason Hoverman (Chair); Elizabeth Flaherty (Vice Chair)  Engineering: Terry West (Chair); Nils Johansen (Vice Chair)  Environmental Quality: Charles Crawford (Chair); Aubrey Bunch (Vice Chair)  Micro and Molecular Biology: David Treves (Chair); Pamela Pretorius (Vice Chair)  Physics and Astronomy: Eric Hedin (Chair); Antonio Cancio (Vice Chair)  Plant Systematics and Biodiversity: Scott Namestnik (Chair); Alice Heikens (Vice Chair)  Science Education: James Berry (Chair); Erin Gerecke (Vice Chair)  Zoology and Entomology: Brad Poteat (Chair); Kristi Bugajski (Vice Chair)

President’s Welcome

As your Academy president it is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the 131st Annual Academy Meeting of the Indiana Academy of Science! Thank you for participating in what promises to be another fantastic forum of learning. Whether you attend paper presentations or poster sessions you will be certain to find highly informative topics from among the 267 papers and posters on the agenda today, ranging from Anthropology to Zoology. As I hope to do, consider attending a presentation or reading a poster that is out of your particular scientific discipline. It’s a great way to see how diverse and interesting our Academy really is.

Regardless of whether you have or have not in the past, please consider giving a paper or presenting a poster next year - and continue to do so in the future. This is my 34th year as a member of the IAS and except for my absence to attend a family member’s funeral I have attended every annual meeting since joining the organization in 1982. I have also presented a paper in every one of those meetings. I don’t know if this is a record, but if it is, I would like to challenge every one of you to beat it!

The Academy is particularly thrilled this morning to welcome remarks from the 51st Lieutenant Governor of Indiana Eric Holcomb. A life-long Hoosier, Lieutenant Governor Holcomb is a veteran of the United States Navy, was a trusted advisor to both Governor Mitch Daniels and Senator Dan Coats, and was nominated to serve by Governor Mike Pence on March 2, 2016, and confirmed by the General Assembly and sworn into office on March 3, 2016.

We are also particularly thrilled to have Conservation Attorney William “Bill” Weeks as our 131st Annual Academy Meeting Luncheon Speaker this afternoon. Bill and I have been collaborators and friends for many years, beginning with when he took the helm as Director of the Indiana Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. Dr. Weeks serves as professor and director of the Conservation Law Center at the Maurer School of Law at Indiana University. He has been exemplary in combining his legal skills and passion for nature. He will be speaking to us today on the topic of ‘The Evolution of Conservation Thought and Strategy.’

In addition to the tremendous breadth of research presented today, we are very happy to welcome experts who will be presenting the Workshop and the ‘Hot Topic’ discussions. The ‘Hot Topics’ and Workshop are timely, and span the range of science interests. I am sure there are several of them that will capture your attention today.

At today's luncheon, the Indiana Academy of Science will honor members who have demonstrated exemplary records of accomplishment. Such honors have been conferred on members since the late 1930's. The Academy will induct as Fellow of the Academy Dr. Dale Edwards, Dr. James O. Farlow, Dr. Michael S. Finkler and Kay Yatskievych, as well as bestow its Distinguished Scholar Award on Dr. James O. Farlow, and its Distinguished Service award on Dr. K. Michael Foos.

Our sponsors this year are those who have supported the work of the Indiana Academy of Science through sponsorship of the Annual Academy Meeting for several years now. We are truly grateful to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Eli Lilly and Company Foundation, Subaru of America (Columbus Central Zone), and White River State Park. I also wish to thank the J. W. Marriott of Indianapolis for hosting the 131st Annual Academy Meeting and the Indiana State Museum for their continued support of the mission of the Academy.

Cordially, Michael Homoya Michael Homoya President

TODAY:

OPENING: ‘LET’S TALK SCIENCE…’ Michael Homoya (Indiana Academy of Science President) will welcome you this morning at the 8:30 a.m. Opening to the 131st Annual Academy Meeting. Michael Homoya will present the Morning Plenary entitled ‘Indiana 1816-Connecting with our Past, Preserving for our Future.’

SECTION MEETINGS: (Everyone) 9:20 a.m. Please join your primary Section of interest following the Opening this morning. Meet and talk with others in your specialty area and name your next Section Vice Chair. Learn more about what your membership in the Indiana Academy of Science is doing to make a difference for Indiana scientists, young scientists and science enthusiasts in Indiana. SCIENCE PRESENTATIONS: 9:45 a.m. – 12:00 noon and 2:10 p.m. -4:15 p.m. 260 Papers and Posters are being presented today. Explore your interests! Areas of science being discussed today include Anthropology, Botany, Cell Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Ecology, Entomology, Environmental Quality, Micro and Molecular Biology, Physics and Astronomy, Plant Systematics and Biodiversity, Science Education, and Zoology.

HOT TOPICS and WORKSHOPS: will run concurrent with the oral papers.

 Detection of Gravitational Waves by Dr. Maxim Lyutikov Professor of Earth Science at Purdue University. 9:45 a.m.  24 Hours Away: Emerging Infectious Diseases and Our Global World by State Epidemiologist Pam Pontones and State Public Health Veterinarian Jen Brown. 2:15 p.m., and again at 3:30p.m.  Looking Up with Down Syndrome by Dr. Randall Roper at IUPUI. 3:15 p.m.  “In the footsteps of Stradivarius” 21st Century Mode Studies of Modern Bowed String Instruments, by Indiana Physicist and Emeritus Professor of Physics Uwe Hansen. 10:30 a.m.  The New Invasive Plant Threats to Indiana-What to Watch For by the Director of Northern Indiana Stewardship of The Nature Conservancy Ellen Jacquart. 3:00 p.m.

 GIS Identification of Lead Service Pipes in Flint, Michigan by Dr. Martin Kaufman, Professor of Earth Science at the University of Michigan–Flint. 10:45 a.m.  Neuroscience of Decision Making-What factors influence the decision making process in the brain? by Alivio Medical Center Medical Director, Alfredo López –Yunez, M.D. 2:15 p.m.  The Tears of Re: Beekeeping in Ancient Egypt by Entomologist Dr. Gene Kritsky who will also have his new book available at the 4:00 p.m. book-signing. 11:00 a.m.  ‘The Need for Nature by Zoologist, Educator and Executive Director of ANIMALIA, Inc. Joel Vanderbush. 11:15 a.m.  What’s New with Pluto? by astronomist Dr. Guillermo Gonzalez, Ball State University. 3:30 p.m.  Heads Up: Concussions in Contact Sports by the Neurotrama Group at Purdue University, Drs. Larry Leverenz, Eric Nauman, and Thomas Talavage. 3:15 p.m.

 Integrating Human Rights into your Teaching and Learning Workshop is offered by Jessica Wyndham, AAAS Associate Director of Scientific Responsibility, Human Rights and Law Program. (College professors and Science Teachers are encouraged to attend) 2:15 p.m.

 Hands on Physics Workshop by Physicists Horia Petrache and Uwe Hansen 9:20 a.m. (High school students and teachers are encouraged to attend.) 131st ANNUAL ACADEMY LUNCHEON: 12:00 noon

Academy President Michael Homoya will have the privilege of hosting the 131st Annual Academy Luncheon. He will congratulate and introduce your newly elected Academy officers, committee members, and Section leadership. He will officially pass the gavel to incoming president Dr. Darrin Rubino today.

The Academy wishes to thank those Academy members who ran for an office or Committee position this time; and thank all of those who will be ending their terms this year. The 2016 Academy President and newly elected officials and committee members will begin their responsibility June 1, 2016.

 Special Awards: The Academy is very proud to bestow upon James O. Farlow, Ph.D. the Academy’s Distinguished Scholar Award, and to bestow upon K. Michael Foos, Ph.D. the Academy’s Distinguished Service Award.

 The Academy Fellow Award: The Fellow is the Academy’s highest honor. The first Academy member was conferred the Fellow honor in 1938. Today, Dale D. Edwards, Ph.D., James O. Farlow, Ph.D., Michael D. Finkler, Ph.D., K. Michael Foos, Ph.D., and Kay Yatskievych will be added to the ranks of those who hold this prestigious recognition.

131th Annual Academy Meeting Luncheon Speaker: Professor W. William Weeks is the Director of the Conservation Law Center, based in Bloomington, Indiana. The Center provides legal counsel without charge to conservation organizations, works to improve conservation law and policy, and offers law students clinical experience in the practice of law and the profession’s public service tradition. Prior to the founding of the Center, he practiced law in Indianapolis and Washington, D.C. He has also worked with The Nature Conservancy as State Director, Director of the Center for Compatible Economic Development, Chief Operating Officer, and Executive Vice President. He is an Adjunct Professor of Law and Director of the Conservation Law Clinic at the Indiana University Maurer School of Law, from which he graduated magna cum laude in 1979. He is the author of Beyond the Ark (Island Press 1996) as well as numerous publications relating to conservation of biodiversity, and conservation easement law. In 2011 and 2012 he served as Chair of the Indiana Sustainable Natural Resources Task Force. As the 131st Annual Academy Meeting Luncheon Speaker. Professor W. William Weeks will present ‘The Evolution of Conservation Thought and Strategy’ ------POSTER PRESENTATIONS

Posters will be on display for your viewing all day)

Poster presenters will be at their posters to discuss their research beginning at 4:15 p.m. to 5:55 p.m.  From 4:15 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. assigned odd numbered poster presenters to be present at their poster.  From 5:05 p.m. to 5:55 p.m. assigned even numbered poser BOOK SIGNING:

Dr. Gene Kritsky, The Tears of Re: Beekeeping in Ancient Egypt will be on hand to discuss and answer questions about his new book The Tears of RE…Beekeeping in Ancient Egypt from 2:00 p.m. to 3:10 p.m. today. The Tears of RE will be available for sale at the 131st Annual Academy Meeting.

According to ancient Egyptian mythology, when the sun god Re wept, his tears turned into honey bees upon touching the ground. For this reason, the honey bee was sacrosanct in ancient Egyptian culture. From art depicting bees on temple walls to the use of honey as a healing ointment, the honey bee was a pervasive cultural motif in ancient Egypt because of its connection to the god Re. The Egyptians valued honey as a sweetener, as a commodity for exchange, and as a medicine. Beeswax was used as an adhesive, a cosmetic, and as a source of magical power. This presentation will examine the archaeological evidence, describing how the ancient Egyptians kept bees in tubular horizontal hives nearly 4,500 years ago, how beekeepers were organized into an administrative hierarchy, and how the honey bee hieroglyph was used and carved. I will also explore how beekeeping in modern-day Egypt, with its horizontal tube hives and walled apiaries, remains as a link to the ancient world of the pharaohs.

EXHIBITS: On display from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Indiana Academy of Science Books and Special Publications: The Academy’s Science Books and Special Publications exhibit table will display and have for sale many of the books written by Academy members.

 Subaru of America (Columbus Central Zone): Subaru of America (Indiana Central Region) continues to be a strong sponsoring partner of the annual academy meetings of the Indiana Academy of Science. We welcome them to the 131st Annual Academy Meeting.

 Indiana Academy of Science: The Indiana Academy of Science exhibit table will display information about Academy Membership, the Senior Research Grants Program (for senior scientists and graduate and undergraduate students), the Science Experts Database, the Junior Research Grants Program (for high school students) and the Academy’s community initiatives.

EXHIBITS continued: On display from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

 John Shepherd Wright Memorial Library: The Academy’s library exhibit talbe offers information about the Academy’s John Shepard Wright Memorial Library. This collection of more than 12,000 volumes is located in the Indiana State Library and Historical Building in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Academy holdings (about 4,500 linear feet) are maintained in closed stacks but are available through institutional loan to members/non-members.

 , Inc.  Bloomington Urban Woodland Group  Central Indiana Science Research  Indiana Division of Nature Preserves  Indiana University PRESS  Indiana Native Plant and Wildflower Society (INPAWS)  Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) Department of Physics and Earth Sciences  Young Innovators Quest, Indianapolis --Health and Science Innovations, Indianapolis: Health and Science Innovations exhibit table will showcase information about their summer program, Young Innovators Quest (based at IUPUI), for high school students interested in science, engineering and technology, to conduct research and explore ways to enhance their creativity in a motivating, hands-on environment. Stop by the table to learn more!

------Consent to use of Photographic Images

Registration and attendance at, or participation in the Indiana Academy of Science Annual Academy Meeting constitutes an agreement by the registrant to the Academy’s use and distribution (now and in the future) of the registrant or attendee’s image or voice in photographs, videotapes, electronic reproductions and audiotapes of such events and activities.

131st Annual Academy Meeting AGENDA

FRIDAY, March 25, 2016 (JW Marriott Hotel, Indianapolis)

2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Academy Council Meeting Room 313 (Members are always welcome) 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Academy Council Reception (invitational) Osteria Pronto Restaurant JW Marriott 7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. Biodiversity/Nat. Areas Com. Meeting Room 311 ------

131st Annual Academy Meeting AGENDA SATURDAY, March 26, 2016 (JW Marriott Hotel, Indianapolis; 3rd Floor)

7:30 a.m. (3rd Floor Foyer) REGISTRATION Poster set-up; Oral presenters load their presentations; Exhibitor set-up. CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST (Grand Ballroom) New Academy Member Meet & Greet Breakfast (w/Academy President, Past Presidents, and Section Leadership) Room 314

8:30 a.m. (Grand Ballroom) WELCOME Michael Homoya President, Indiana Academy of Science

Eric Holcomb 51st Lieutenant Governor of Indiana

MORNING PLENARY LET’S TALK SCIENCE… Michael Homoya ‘Indiana 1816 – Connecting With Our Past, Preserving For Our Future.’

9:20 a.m. (See Section Rm # page) SECTION MEETINGS (All Academy members join their primary Section)

9:45 a.m. (See Presentation Rm #‘s) SCIENCE PRESENTATIONS Research Papers, ‘Hot Topics’, Workshops

12:00 p.m. (Grand Ballroom) 131st ANNUAL ACADEMY MEETING LUNCHEON Academy President Michael Homoya

Awards: Distinguished Scholar, Distinguished Service, Academy Fellow.

GUEST SPEAKER: W. William Weeks ‘The Evolution of Conservation Thought and Strategy’

2:10 p.m. (See Presentation Rm #‘s) SCIENCE PRESENTATIONS Research Papers, ‘Hot Topics’, Workshops

4:15 p.m. – 5:55 p.m. (Rooms 1-4) POSTER PRESENTATIONS w/ concurrent NETWORKING RECEPTION (4:15 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. assigned odd numbered poster presenters to be present at their poster) (5:05 p.m. to 5:55 p.m. assigned even numbered poster presenters to be present at their poster)

6:00 p.m. ADJOURN Exhibits and Posters will be available for viewing all day, from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR AWARD

Dr. Farlow is internationally known for his work on dinosaurs and has published more than 80 research papers in professional journals, book chapters, and other venues over the course of his career, and was senior author of more than half of them. He has published in the leading general scientific journals (e.g. Science, Nature, PLoS One), discipline-specific journals (Journal of Paleontology, Paleontology, Historical Biology, Paleobiology, Palaios, Lethaia, Geology, American Journal of Science, Ecology, Journal of Herpetology, American Zoologist), international journals (Journal of the Paleontological Society of Korea, Swiss Journal of Geosciences, Gaia, Terra Nova, Zubía), and journals with more of a regional focus (American Midland Naturalist, Proceedings of the Indiana Academy of Science, Texas Journal of Science). He has presented his research at professional meetings around the world (more than 70 published research abstracts), and often as an invited speaker.

Dr. Farlow’s research has three main emphases: paleobiology/paleoecology of fossil vertebrates (particularly dinosaurs), fossil footprints and trackways of dinosaurs, and pre-glacial, late Cenozoic fossil vertebrates of Indiana. His paleobiological work includes theoretical studies of dinosaur locomotion, thermal biology, body size distributions, population abundances, and feeding interactions. In Indiana, he has coordinated study of the fossils from the Pipe Creek Sinkhole locality in Grant County, a site that has produced thousands of fossil bones of amphibians, reptiles, and small and large mammals that lived in this area approximately 5 million years ago. The Pipe Creek Sinkhole site is one of only two such occurrences known from the interior of the eastern half of North America. His research has been cited in more than 2800 publications, according to Google Scholar’s tabulation. He has had many media series appearances, including The Dinosaurs (PBS series), T. rex Exposed (an episode of the PBS series “Nova”), The Dinosaur Diner (an episode of the cable television series “Paleoworld”), Dinosaur Attack (Discover Channel), Monsters 1: Dinosaurs (BBC World Service radio program “Discovery”), and Dinosaur Face-Off: Tyrannosaurus vs. Triceratops (Discover Channel). In addition, he participated in a series of programs illustrating the importance of mathematics for scientific research and everyday life called Challenge of the Unknown.

Jim has been a member of the Indiana Academy of Science since 1991, has presented or supervised numerous student presentations at the annual meetings, has been Section Chair of Earth Science, and was also Speaker of the Year in 1999.

Dr. James O. Farlow is a premier example of a distinguished scholar based on his research record and educational efforts, and the Academy is honored to bestow upon him the Indiana Academy of Science Distinguished Scholar Award.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Dr. K. Michael Foos is Professor Emeritus, Indiana University East, Richmond, Indiana. Mike received his B.S. in Education and his M.S. and Ph.D. in Biological Science, all at The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. He was an Associate Professor of Biology at Lake Erie College, Painesville, Ohio, and then a Professor of Biology at Indiana University East, retiring there in 2007 and subsequently named Professor Emeritus. Mike’s research focus has been the study of the Pilobolus genus of fungi, known as Coprophilous fungi, which release their spores to the surrounding vegetation and is then eaten by herbivores. Mike has been a member of the Academy since 1983 and was elected as a Fellow of the Academy in 2004.

During his thirty-three year tenure, Mike has made significant contributions to the Academy, especially in service. He and his students have given thirty-eight presentations, most in the Botany Section about the Pilobolus fungi, and he has authored/co-authored seven publications in the Proceedings. He served as section vice chair and chairperson in 1986-1987 and 1995-1996. Mike organized and hosted the 2000 Indiana Academy of Science meeting at Indiana University East. He has served on numerous Academy committees, including the Science Talent Search Committee (1990-1992), Speaker Committee (2000-2009), Internet Use Committee (2008-2009), Nomination and Election Committee, Chairman, (2004-2009), Executive Committee (2004-2009), Publications Committee (2010-2015), and the Awards Committee (2013-2015). He was a member of the IAS Council from 2004-2009 and again from 2011-2015. Most recently, Mike served as the Academy Secretary from 2011 until early 2015.

Serving as the IAS Webmaster from 2009-2015, Mike re-designed and implemented the current IAS website. The renewed website clearly helped the Academy move into the twenty-first century and has helped spread the Academy's name and function. For the members, it has made it easier to renew membership and register for our annual meetings, to know/learn important dates, improved access to Academy publications, to find information about and to apply for any of the Academy grants, and to understand the inner workings of the Academy. In short, the website has become the "functional center" of the Academy, and we owe its importance and significance to Mike.

Dr. K. Michael Foos represents the highest dedication to service within the Indiana Academy of Science and we are honored to confer the Distinguished Service Award upon him.

2016 FELLOW RECIPIENTS  Dale David Edwards, Ph.D.  James O. Farlow, Ph.D.  Michael S. Finkler, Ph.D.  Kay Yatskievych

Dr. Dale David Edwards is Professor and Chair of the Biology Department, University of Evansville, Evansville, Indiana. Dr. Edwards received his undergraduate degree in Zoology at Brandon University, Canada, and earned his M.S. and Ph.D. in Biology at Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Dale’s specializations are in Evolutionary Biology and Parasitology where his research has focused primarily on the ecology and evolution of organisms with symbiotic lifestyles, addressing the evolutionary ecology of water mites (Unionicola spp.) that live in association with various species of freshwater mussels. He has earned the Deans’ Outstanding Teacher Award, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Evansville, and The Sadelle & Sydney Berger Annual Award for Scholarship. Dale has published twenty-six manuscripts, two in the Proceedings of the Indiana Academy of Science, and coauthored one book. He has given thirty-seven presentations, nine at the Academy’s annual meetings. Dr. Edwards has received and successfully completed six Senior Research Grants from the Academy. As a member of the Indiana Academy of Science, his contributions are many, including Chair of the Local Arrangements Committee for the 124th Annual Meeting held at the University of Evansville in 2008. He was President-elect in 2012-2013 and served as President 2013-2014. He has continued to serve on the IAS Council as Past-President 2014-2015, and as a Member of the Academy Membership Task Force since 2014.

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Dr. James O. Farlow is Emeritus Professor of Geology, Indiana- Purdue University, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Dr. Farlow earned his B.A. with Honors in Zoology at Indiana University. Continuing his education at Yale University, he earned his Ph.D. in Geology and Geophysics. He has received many academic honors including Phi Beta Kappa, and awards from Indiana University-Purdue University, Fort Wayne, among them: Sigma Xi Club Scientific Researcher of the Year, Sigma Xi Club College Science Teacher of the Year, College of Arts and Sciences Distinguished Lecturer, and Outstanding Researcher Award. Dr. Farlow is internationally known for his work on dinosaurs and has published more than 80 research papers in professional journals, book chapters, and other venues over the course of his career, and was senior author of more than half of them. Dr. Farlow is also this year’s Distinguished Scholar Awardee. More about Dr. Farlow is in the preceding pages.

Dr. Michael S. Finkler is Professor of Biology, Indiana University Kokomo, Kokomo, Indiana, where he has received the Claude Rich Excellence in Teaching Award, as well as the Trustees Teaching Award. He received his undergraduate degree in Biology and Religion from Kalamazoo College and his M.S. and Ph.D. in Zoology with emphasis on Physiology, from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio. While at Indiana University, he has served on numerous committees, most recently as Vice President of the Faculty Senate, and has also been a member of the Faculty Affairs Committee. Mike’s service to the Academy is extensive. Since joining the Academy in 2004, he has made presentations at the Annual Meeting, was awarded an IAS Research Grant in 2007, organized the IAS Annual Meeting at IU Kokomo in 2009, and was Zoology Section Chair in 2011. Most recently, he served as Budget Committee Chair in 2011 – 2012 and was President of the Indiana Academy of Science in 2012-2013. In June 2015, he accepted the duties and responsibilities of Treasurer of the Indiana Academy of Science. Mike brought public visibility to the Academy as President when he appeared on the syndicated television program “Inside Indiana Business”. He is a member of the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, The Herpetologists’ League, Sigma Xi, the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology, and the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles. Mike is also active in Community Service, most recently serving as Biology instructor for “Science Rocks”, a summer science camp program for middle school-aged students from underrepresented groups, hosted by the IU Kokomo School of Science.

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Kay Yatskievych is Research Associate, Missouri Botanical Garden, and also Contract Editor/Compositor of Missouri Botanical Garden Press. Kay has worked extensively on the Flora of North America and the Flora of the Venezuelan Guayana. Kay received her B.A. in Plant Sciences from Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana. While at Missouri Botanical Garden, Kay has been heavily involved in working with the Flora of North America Project as well as the Flora of the Venezuelan Guayana, even having two endemic plant species named for her – Sterculia kayae and Biophytum kayae! In 2000, she published her comprehensive and best-selling Field Guide to Indiana Wildflowers. Kay is frequently called upon to speak at various locations around the state and leads wildflower forays in the spring. She has had numerous photographs of wildflowers published and also as an outstanding artist she has shown her work at many exhibits and has received many awards for her art. At present, Kay is working on the Indiana Vascular Plants Catalogue, the first update since 1940 of Charles Deam’s Flora of Indiana. Kay has been a long-time member of the Indiana Academy of Science and attends the annual meeting regularly. She has presented papers numerous times at the annual meeting. She has been Indiana Academy of Science Council Member-at-Large, a member of the Biodiversity and Natural Areas Committee, served as Bio Blitz co-leader, and has authored, or co-authored many papers for the Proceedings of the Indiana Academy of Science.

131st Annual Academy Meeting HIGHLIGHTED SPEAKERS

Morning Plenary ’Indiana 1816 – Connecting With Our Past, Preserving For Our Future’ Michael Homoya President of the Indiana Academy of Science

During this year of Indiana’s bicentennial it is perhaps appropriate to remember that prior to statehood Indiana was a land of vast forests, expansive wetlands, brushy barrens, dense canebrakes, and prairies as far as the eye could see. Herds of bison traveled ancient paths, passenger pigeons darkened the skies, and wolves, bears and panthers roamed the land. All this we know from first person accounts provided by early explorers, pioneers, and government surveyors. The veracity of these varies by source but for the most part they are useful in painting a picture of “original” Indiana - one that today few can imagine. Knowledge of our ancestral landscape is important as it helps to provide a baseline of environmental health. At the beginning of statehood the increase of westward expansion brought about great changes to the Hoosier landscape. Forests were cleared, wetlands drained, and the prairie sod cut. Populations of most plant and animal species correspondingly declined and some disappeared from the state altogether, including the iconic American Bison. Amid all these changes remnants of pre-settlement Indiana remain, many of which are dedicated as state nature preserves under legislation known as the Nature Preserves Act. Michael Homoya is the President of the Indiana Academy of Science and botanist/plant ecologist with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Nature Preserves. He is the 2015 recipient of the Indiana Academy of Science prestigious Distinguished Scholar Award. ------

131st ANNUAL ACADEMY MEETING LUNCHEON ‘The Evolution of Conservation Thought and Strategy’

Professor W. William Weeks Conservation Law Center, Maurer School of Law, Indiana University Bloomington ‘ Professor Weeks will present a selective history of conservation, with an emphasis on the 20th and 21st Century. He will comment on false starts, developing trends, and the branching of the conservation tree. Finally, he will comment on where conservation is going, as well as where he thinks it should go, and what things we might do to go there.

Professor Weeks work at the Conservation Law Center involves providing legal counsel to conservation organizations, and working to improve the body of conservation law and policy. Areas of special focus include the law of conservation easements, protection of rare species and ecosystems, protection of high quality freshwater systems, and service to land trusts. Recent areas of activity include the application of the Endangered Species Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act to the generation of wind energy. The Conservation Law Center has also done a good deal of work on legal approaches to aquatic invasive species control, and is involved in litigation testing the boundaries of state ownership of the Lake Michigan shore, and the application of the public trust doctrine to that resource.

WORKSHOP: Integrating Human Rights into your Teaching and Learning This Workshop is open to everyone. College Professors and Science Teachers are encouraged to attend.

This participatory Workshop will provide context for the principles you are teaching, and assist students in understanding the real-world applications of the discipline. It will facilitate the engagement of your students in the issues of concern to their community. Engage and retain students. By integrating human rights into your science or engineering course of study through case-based, clinical experiences, you can both convey the key concepts of the discipline while giving added meaning and relevance to the principles being taught. This workshop will provide participants with an overview of the connections among science, engineering and human rights, models and approaches for integrating human rights into science/engineering curricula, and resources for engaging students.

Facilitator: Jessica Wyndham, Ph.D. American Association for the Advancement of Sciences (AAAS), Scientific Responsibility, Human Rights and Law Program

Jessica Wyndham is associate director of the American Association for the Advancement of Science’s (AAAS) Scientific Responsibility, Human Rights and Law Program, where she directs the Article 15 project, aimed at engaging the scientific community in elucidating, promoting and assisting in the realization of the human right to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress. She is also coordinator of the AAAS Science and Human Rights Coalition, a network of scientific membership organizations and individual affiliates that recognize a role for science and scientists for human rights. The Coalition engages graduate and undergraduate students in its activities and has been actively involved in developing resources and materials for integrating human rights into STEM curricula. Before joining AAAS in 2007, Jessica worked extensively with national human rights institutions throughout Asia, the Pacific, Africa and the Americas, she served as Legal Adviser for the Brookings Institution Project on Internal Displacement and the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Ecuador. Jessica is an attorney by training.

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WORKSHOP: Hands-on Physics This Workshop is open to everyone. High School Students and High School Science Teachers are encouraged to attend.

This Workshop will offer Physics hand-on experiments demonstrated by college students from the Department of Physics at IUPUI, designed for a broad audience. Experiments will include those related to acoustics, magnetism, and mechanics. Some of the demonstrations you will see will show that some physical phenomena are not immediately intuitive. 15 different hands-on experiments will be demonstrated. IUPUI students from the Physics Department at IUPUI-Indianapolis will accompany Dr. Uwe Hansen from Indiana State University and Dr. Horia Petrache from IUPUI-Indianapolis in these demonstrations.

Detection of Gravitational Waves

Maxim Lyutikov, Ph.D. Department of Physics and Astronomy Purdue University

The recent large losses of European honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in the US and around the world since 2006 have drawn considerable concern from farmers, growers, the government, the media, and the public. The unique symptoms of many affected colonies (vanished foragers, few nurses, present queens, and a delay of invasion by hive pests) led many to name these losses a new phenomenon, Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD). Some of Indiana's few commercial beekeeping operations reported losses, but total incidences of CCD in Indiana have been less frequent than in other states. A myriad of causes have been associated with CCD, including invasive parasites and pathogens, pesticide use, malnutrition, habitat fragmentation, and industrialized agricultural practices. Recent research suggests that CCD cannot be attributed to a single factor, but is rather a multifactorial problem that will need solutions from researchers, beekeepers, and "citizen scientists." This ‘Hot-Topic’ presentation will explore the relevance of beekeeping to agriculture, the history of CCD, the current situation in Indiana and the US, and current methods of counteracting these colony losses.

------24 Hours Away: Emerging Infectious Diseases and Our Global World

This Hot Topic presentation will describe the complexity of public health practice with the increased global movement of persons and goods. The emergence and impact of new infectious diseases, or familiar ones in new populations or geographic areas, as a result of global movement will be discussed. Examples and case studies will include recent headliners such as ZIKA VIRUS, mumps, influenza, and others.

Pam Pontones, MA State Epidemiologist/Director - Pam Pontones’ career at the Indiana State Department of Health spans over 20 years. For the past 9 years, Pam has supervised a program that includes 4 epidemiology divisions with approximately 50 epidemiologists, investigators, and support staff. She also serves as an epidemiology subject matter expert, presenter, and spokesperson for various communicable diseases.

Jen Brown, DVM, MPH, DACVPM State Public Health Veterinarian - earned her DVM from Purdue University in 2000 and her MPH in infectious disease epidemiology from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill in 2003. She was board certified by the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine in 2009. Dr. Brown served in private practice at a small animal hospital before her public health experience at state, local, and federal agencies began 10 years ago. Her interests include infectious disease epidemiology, zoonotic and vector-borne diseases, animal-related injuries, and the human-animal bond. Looking Up with Down Syndrome: Current Research Indicates Significant Possibilities to Improve Traits Associated with Trisomy 21.

Randall J. Roper, Ph.D. Associate Professor Department of Biology Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

It is often thought that Down syndrome is an incurable disorder. Trisomy 21 is the most common live-born human aneuploidy; and it is amazing that individuals with Trisomy 21 survive to birth and are now living into their 60s with an extra chromosome 21 containing approximately 500 genes. Individuals with Down syndrome present with numerous traits that vary in both incidence and severity including cardiac, cognitive and skeletal deficits. During the past 10 years, scientists studying Down syndrome have begun to investigate therapies to improve many of the traits associated with Down syndrome. Correcting some Trisomy 21 phenotypes is no longer a question, it is now a matter of how and when it will be done. Research shows that there may be ways to improve both skeletal and cognitive Down syndrome phenotypes.

Current breakthroughs indicate this is a very exciting time for scientists, caregivers, and individuals with Down syndrome. Dr. Randall Roper is an Associate Professor of Biology at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis where he studies how genes in three copies (and others throughout the genome) cause phenotypes that affect individuals with Down syndrome. He earned a B.S. in Molecular Biology from Brigham Young University, a Ph.D. in Immunogenetics from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and was a postdoctoral fellow in Developmental Biology and Genetics at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

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“In the footsteps of Stradivarius” 21st Century Mode Studies of Modern Bowed String Instruments.

Uwe J. Hansen, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus of Physics Indiana State University Adjunct Professor of Physics University of Indianapolis, and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology.

While many elements of a violin contribute to the final tone quality of the sound produced by the instrument, the bulk of the burden rests on the plates forming the body. The job of the luthier thus increasingly shifts from reproducing the geometry, the material and the structure of the instrument, to reproducing the vibrational pattern of a proven master violin.

Several mode study techniques will be discussed and illustrated in their application to constructing modern string instruments. It is interesting to note that at least one 1st chair violinist in a European orchestra has replaced his trusted Stradivarius with a modern instrument, built on the basis of techniques utilizing mode copying. The New Invasive Plant Threats to Indiana - What To Watch For

Ellen Jacquart Director of Northern Indiana Stewardship The Nature Conservancy, Indiana Field Office Efroymson Conservation Center 620 East Ohio Street Indianapolis, IN 46202-3811

The best way to deal with invasive plants is to watch for them and control them as they first invade, but that can be easier said than done. Thanks to a great new reporting system (Report IN at EDDMaps.org/Indiana) we are learning a lot about invasive plants that are new to the state, or moving quickly in the state. Details on the species to watch for, how to identify them, the habitats they invade, and how they move around the state will be shared. Importantly, information on how to report them on a computer or smart phone will also be shared so everyone can help in this effort.

Since 1998 Ellen Jacquart has been directing the management of The Nature Conservancy’s preserve lands in Indiana. Most of her work revolves around two important aspects of land management - invasive species control and prescribed fire. Ellen is from Wisconsin, and received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in botany from the University of Wisconsin. As part of her current position, Ellen works on invasive species issues at the state level. She is the Invasives Committee chair for the Indiana Native Plant and Wildflower Society and was a member of the Indiana Invasive Species Task Force that led to the formation of the Indiana Invasive Species Council in the 2009 legislative session. She currently leads the Invasive Plant Advisory Committee which reports to the Indiana Invasive Species Council.

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GIS Identification of Lead Service Pipes in Flint, Michigan

Martin Kaufman, Ph.D. David M. French Professor of Earth Science University of Michigan-Flint.

At today’s talk, Dr. Kaufman will talk about the challenges faced by older communities with respect to lead (Pb) contamination in their water supply, and the infrastructure modifications required to minimize the risks from lead. Specific focus will be on the methods used to create a Geographic Information System layer of pipe infrastructure and the analytical capabilities afforded by this layer for water distribution system lead risk assessment.

Dr. Kaufman earned his PhD in environmental planning from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in 1994. His research focuses on environmental risk assessment, water infrastructure, groundwater contamination, Geographic Information Systems, and science-based planning methods. He is the author of Critical Thinker’s Guide to the Environment (1996); co-author of Urban Watersheds: Geology, Contamination and Sustainability (2011); and over 25 peer- reviewed scientific publications. Throughout his career, he has received numerous research grants covering a diverse set of topics, including brownfield redevelopment, storm water management, and the risks to children from hazardous materials at home. In 2000, he was the recipient of an American Water Works Association Best Paper Award. Neuroscience of Decision Making: What factors influence the decision making process in the brain?

Alfredo López-Yúnez, M.D. Neurologist Alivio Medical Center Chief Executive Officer, Neurohealth

Research findings in the last decade have sparked a controversy on the decision making process in the brain: are we freely making decisions, or are they pre-determined or "wired"? As we approach the next decade focused on brain mapping, neuroscientists take on the challenge of discovering the correlates of morality and judgement, primarily in the pre-frontal cortex. These correlates become even more interesting when we analyze them in the context of ethics, social justice, and the legal system.

Dr. López has been Medical Director of Alivio Medical Center and CEO of its parent company Neurohealth, Ltd. for over 12 years; where he and his staff provide high quality, compassionate, and culturally competent healthcare to patients of Central Indiana, regardless of their social-economic status. Previous to establishing his own practice he served as Co- Director of the IU/Wishard Stroke Unit, where he noticed the extraordinary need in parts of the Marion County population for high quality healthcare access. Throughout his career, Dr. López has conducted research and published over 40 medical articles in the fields of neuroscience, neurology, genetics and wearable sensors. Dr. López philanthropic contributions include founding Health and Science Innovations, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to youth education with the vision of creating a new generation of innovators in Indiana; direct support or involvement in over 12 community service organizations, and sponsorship of local cultural events. In addition to practicing medicine and conducting research, Dr. López in interested in developing new technologies and has a provisional patent for a device that uses biosensors to protect elders from accidental bone fractures.

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The Tears of Re: Beekeeping in Ancient Egypt

Gene Kritsky, PhD Professor and Chair of Biology Editor, American Entomologist Department of Biology Mount St. Joseph University Cincinnati, OH 45233

Purdue Neurotrauma Group - PNG is a collaborative neurotrauma research group that combines expertise in clinical diagnosis and care, biomechanics, and neuroimaging.

Heads Up: Concussion in Contact Sports

This Hot Topic presentation will focus on Concussions and Brain Injuries resulting from contact sports. Dr. Larry Leverenz (Clinical Professor, Department of Health and Kinesiology, Purdue University), Dr. Eric Nauman (Professor, School of Mechanical Engineering, Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University), and Dr. Thomas Talavage (Professor, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering) will present their research and discuss the extent to which concussions in contact sports is a problem in Indiana, how to go about preventing concussions from occuring, and how to recognize and respond to them should they occur. The mission of the Neurotrama Group is to identify the mechanisms that lead to traumatic brain injury (TBI) in athletes, soldiers, and victims of blunt force impacts, and to develop early detection methods, protective systems, and directed therapies to provide the fastest recovery possible.

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What’s New with Pluto?

Guillermo Gonzalez, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Astronomy Department of Physics and Astronomy Ball State University

Discovered in 1930, Pluto was long considered our

solar system's ninth planet. But after the discovery of similar intriguing worlds deeper in the distant Kuiper Belt, icy Pluto was reclassified as a dwarf planet. This "hot topic" presentation summarizes the exciting discoveries concerning Pluto made by NASA's New Horizons probe.

The Need for Nature

Joel Vanderbush Zoologist, Educator Animalia

Biophobia is the fear of living things. Many students have had biophobia driven in to them by parents, the media and even schools. Anything that is not sterile is perceived as unclean, disease ridden and is something to be avoided. This is evident by a $50 billion bottled water industry as well as a $400 million hand sanitizer industry. If people are convinced that tap water is dirty, what must they believe about a stream, soil, rocks, animals, or even plants and trees?

is working to stem the tide of this Nature Deficit Disorder. By bringing live animals to the public, Animalia’s Education Outreach Programs seek to not only teach children about animals and their habitats, but provide a connection to nature in a fun and interactive setting. While a single animal program cannot solve all the challenges noted above, it can provide a springboard for student interest in animals and nature that will fuel further interest in science.

Animalia’s Executive Director, Joel Vanderbush, has been a Zoologist and Educator for over 20 years. He earned a BS in Zoology from Michigan State University and MA in Teaching and Education from the University of Indianapolis. For over 10 years, Joel has been a professional consultant and speaker across North America at zoos, conservation organizations, schools and universities. He is a licensed science teacher in Indiana. In 2007, he founded Animalia, a non-profit public charity focused on connecting children to animals and nature through interactive education programs.

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2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

SECTION MEETINGS

9:20 AM- 9:40 AM, SATURDAY MARCH 26

(All Academy Members)

SECTION ROOM # ANTHROPOLOGY 301 BOTANY 302 CELL BIOLOGY 303 CHEMISTRY 304 MICROBIOLOGY & MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 305 ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 306 EARTH SCIENCE 307 ECOLOGY 308 ENGINEERING 309 PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY 310 PLANT SYSTEMATICS AND BIODIVERSITY 311 SCIENCE EDUCATION 313 ZOOLOGY AND ENTOMOLOGY 312

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

GENERAL INTEREST- HOT TOPICS AND WORKSHOPS

TIME PRESENTER(S) PRESENTATION RM#

Uwe Hansen, Physicist WORKSHOP: Hands-on Physics 9:20 AM- Horia Petrache, Indiana (High School Students and High School Teachers 300 10:15 AM University-Purdue University encouraged to attend) Indianapolis, Dept. of Physics, IUPUI Physics Students Maxim Lyutikov, Department of HOT TOPIC: Detection of gravitational waves from a 9:45 AM- Physics and Astronomy, Purdue binary black hole merger. 310 10:45 AM University 2:15 PM-3:00 PM Pam Pontones and Jen Brown, HOT TOPIC: 24 Hours Away: Emerging Infectious 302 Indiana State Department of Diseases and our Global World 3:30 PM-4:15 PM Health 306 Randall Roper, Department of HOT TOPIC: Looking Up with Down Syndrome: Current 3:15 PM-4:00 PM Biology, Indiana University- Research Indicates Signficant Possibilities to Improve 305 Purdue University Indianapolis Traits Associated with Trisomy 21

Uwe Hansen, Professor HOT TOPIC: “In the footsteps of Stradivarius” 21st 10:30 AM- Emeritus-Physics, Indiana State Century Mode Studies of Modern Bowed String 306 11:15 AM University; Adjunct Professor of Instruments Physics, University of Indianapolis and Rose Hulman Institute of Technology Ellen Jacquart, The Nature HOT TOPIC: The New Invasive Plant Threats to Indiana- 3:00 PM- Conservancy, Indiana Field What to Watch For 311 3:30 PM Office Martin Kaufman, Department of HOT TOPIC: GIS Identification of Lead Service Pipes in 10:45 AM- Earth Science, University of Flint, Michigan 307 11:45 AM Michigan – Flint, Michigan Alfredo Lopez-Yunez, Alivio HOT TOPIC: Neuroscience of Decision Making: What 2:15 PM-3:15 PM Medical Center; Neurohealth, factors influence the decision making process in the 306 Indiana brain? Gene Kritsky, Department of HOT TOPIC: The Tears of RE: Beekeeping in Ancient 11:00 AM- Biology, Mount S. Joseph Egypt 303 11:30 AM University, Cincinnati, Ohio Jessica Wyndham WORKSHOP: Integrating Human Rights into your 2:15 PM-3:15 PM American Association for the Teaching and Learning 301 Advancement of Science (AAAS) (Open to Everyone. College Professors and Science Teachers encouraged to attend.) Larry Leverenz, Eric Nauman, HOT TOPIC: Heads Up: Concussion in Contact Sports 3:15 PM-4:15 PM Thomas Talvage, Purdue 303 Neurotrama Group

3:30 PM- Guillermo Gonzalez, Assistant HOT TOPIC: What’s New with Pluto? 310 4:00 PM Professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Ball State University 11:15 AM Joel Vanderbush HOT TOPIC: The Need for Nature 302 ANIMALIA, INC

COLOR KEY

HOT TOPIC WORKSHOP

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

ORAL PRESENTATIONS BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

10:00 AM Della Collins Cook, and Cheryl A Young Man with Developmental Delays at the Murphy Site, 12Po1: 301 A. Munson, Indiana University Mortuary Practices and Social Roles in Late Prehistoric Indiana.

10:15 AM Kristopher Aguirre, Christopher An analysis of a historic homestead in Floyd County, Indiana. 301 R. Moore, University of Indianapolis, and Rebecca Van Sessen, Indiana University Northwest 10:30 PM Harrison Funke and Christopher Archaeological Analysis on Harrington Cabin Site, Floyd County 301 Moore, University of Indianapolis Indiana.

10:45 PM Sarah E. Fann, Christopher W. Mastodon Extinction in the Context of Dental Macrowear. 301 Schmidt. Indiana Prehistory Laboratory, University of Indianapolis. 9:45 AM Darrin L. Rubino and Rachel E. Analysis of seasonal radial growth patterns of mixed Mespohytic forest 302 Turner, Hanover College trees in southeastern Indiana.

10:00 AM Rachel E. Turner and Darrin L. Using Tree Rings to Date an Historically Erected Building in Fountain 302 Rubino, Hanover College City, Indiana.

10:15 AM Jordan M. Marshall, Indiana Characterization of an uncommon Northern Indiana forest type: 302 University-Purdue University Fort Hackberry-American Elm-Green Ash. Wayne

10:30 AM Jennifer Robison, Manami Saito, Domestic (Glycine max) and Non-domesticated (Glycine soja) 302 Stephen Randall, Indiana Soybean are Capable of Cold Acclimation. University-Purdue University Indianapolis

11:00 AM Allison Hutt, Chantel Shores, Effects of heterospecific pollination on stylar curvature, seed set, and 302 Nantikan Becker, Ridwan Jojo, fruit production in Hibiscus aponeurus and H. flavifolius from Laikipia, Derek Benson, and Andrew Kenya. Schnabel, Indiana University South Bend

3:00 PM Michael Watters, Alexander Fungal Bioremediation of Solid Waste. 302 Mehreteab, Alex Zapata, Elizabeth Phillippi, Blair Mitchell, Jacob Yablonowski, Daniel Zimmerman, Victor Manzanilla, Laura Knuth and Jonathan Schoer, Valparaiso University

3:15 PM Michael Watters, Jacob ROS control mutants and added antioxidants induce hypobranching in 302 Yablonowski, Tayler Grashel and Neurospora crassa. Hamzah Abduljabar, Valparaiso University 3:30 PM Scott T. Bates, Justin S. Golday, Toward a checklist of Indiana fungi. 302 Rachel L. Kunnen, and Nathanael

J. Pilla, Purdue University

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

ORAL PRESENTATIONS BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

9:45 AM David Jantz, Brenner Burkholder, Optical Density Accurately Predicts Dry Mass of Algae Produced 303 Nathanael Dick, Tessa Yoder, in a Buoyant-Lift Photobioreactor. Aaron Kauffmann, David Slagel, Ryan Sensenig, and Stan Grove, Goshen College 10:00 AM Sarah M. Engle, Sheldon G. Acetylation is not required for degradation of translocon- 303 Watts, Justin J. Crowder, Sam Z. associated protein. Coffey, Eric M. Rubenstein, Ball State University 10:15 AM Allyson Munneke, Sarah Investigation of the Role of the G Protein-Coupled Receptor 303 Olofsson, Julie Kolnik, Amy FSHR-1 in Regulating Synaptic Transmission in C. elegans. Godfrey, Jennifer Kowalski, Butler University 10:30 AM Kyle Cherry, Amy Godfrey, Investigation of the localization and expression of the G-protein 303 Jennifer Kowalski, Butler coupled receptor FSHR-1 in C. elegans neurons. University

10:45 AM Katie M. Beverley, Colton L. Significant adjuvant augmentation of the anti-cancer effects of 5- 303 Starcher, Amanda S. Khan, Fluorouracil and Gemcitabine in human ductal pancreatic Brandy Ploetner, and Dean A. adenocarcinoma cells with the antibiotic ciprofloxaxin. Wiseman, Department of Biology, Shaheen College of Arts & Sciences, University of Indianapolis

2:15 PM Patrice Bouyer, Valparaiso Knocking down inositol-1, 4, 5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptors 303 University and the University of binding protein released with IP3 (IRBIT) increases intestinal Chicago barrier permeability and decreases chloride secretion in the human colonic crypt cells T84. 2:30 PM Shaad M. Ahmad, Indiana State Two Forkhead transcription factors regulate cardiac progenitor 303 University, Stephen S. specification by controlling the expression of receptors of the Gisselbrecht, Brigham and fibroblast growth factor and Wnt signaling pathways. Women’s Hospital, Pritha Bhattacharyya, Neal Jeffries, and Alan M. Michelson, National Institutes of Health

2:45 PM Avery M. Sampson, Carter Role of the gene regulatory protein SRF in activation of the muscle 303 Herndon, Larry Fromm, Ball State spindle-specifying gene Egr3. University

3:00 PM Amber Kline, JoAnne Babula, Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) rescues neuromuscular defects 303 Jennifer Kowalski, Butler associated with expression of the mammalian Down Syndrome University critical gene Dyrk1a in C. elegans motor neurons.

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

ORAL PRESENTATIONS BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

9:45 AM Aaron Graber, ByeonChan Lim, Combinatorial Synthesis of Candidate Antibiotics. 304 Hayley Mann, Jacob Roth, Zachary Zimmerman, Caleb Derstine, Deeksha Pagar, Doug Schirch, Goshen College 10:00 AM R. Jeremy Johnson, Mackenzie Large scale structural rearrangement provides dual control over the 304 Smith, Whitney Hart, Perry Rabin catalytic and membrane binding activity of a bacterial serine hydrolase. Butler University 10:15 AM Raheleh Ravanfar, Jenny Novel Synthesis of Lavendamycin Analogues and Related Quinoline- 304 Nguyen and Robert E. 5,8-Diones. Sammelson, Ball State University 10:30 AM Geoffrey C. Hoops, Benjamin Transition metal cation inhibition of the Mycobacterium 304 Lancaster, R. Jeremy Johnson, tuberculosis esterase Rv0045c. Butler University 10:45 AM James Mendez - Indiana Using 3D Printing to Make Custom Models for Introductory Chemistry 304 Univeristy Purdue University Courses (Chemistry Education Presentation). Columbus 11:00 AM Stephanie Raynor, R. Jeremy Measuring kinetics and substrate specificity of the mycobacterial 304 Johnson, Geoffrey C. Hoops, esterase LipN employing latent fluorophore substrates. Butler University 11:15 AM Noah Cutshaw, and Dan Immunochemiluminescence Detection of Chicken Muscle Lactate 304 Hammond, Taylor University Dehydrogenase Using a Digital SLR Camera. 11:30 AM Emil F. Khisamutdinov and Seth In-silico Design and Experimental Validation of Boolean Logic Gates 304 G. Abels, Ball State University Based on Fluorogenic RNA Aptamer. 11:45 AM Jennifer S Holt, Benjamin Averill, Understanding the Behavior of Brooker's Merocyanine in Host-Guest 304 Thomas Dabertin, Erica Gilbert, Complexes. Carly Hanson, Kelsey Larson, Miroslava Repak, Charles Sayger, Valparaiso University 2:15 PM Daniel Headley, Mahamud Subir, Surface Properties of p-Nitrophenol and p-Nitrophenolate at the air- 304 Ball State University water interface as Investigated by Second Harmonic Generation Spectroscopy. 2:30 PM AJCL Hogarth, Ohio Dominican Repurposing Obsolete or Underutilised Equipment in the General 304 University Chemistry Laboratory: Photometric Titrimetry. 2:45 PM Joshua Smith, Colby Adolph, Photocatalytic Synthesis of β-Cabroline Derivatives: Effect of the 304 Tristan Maxson, Jake Werth, Preparation of Platinized Titanium Dioxide Catalysts. Christopher Uyeda, and Tykhon Zubkov,Ball State University and Purdue University 3:00 PM Caleb C. Culy and Philip A. Exploring the reactivity of oxypyridinium salt derivatives with oxygen 304 Albiniak, Ball State University nucleophiles.

3:30 PM Hossein Farsi, University of Preparation, characterization and investigations of nanostructured 304 Birjand, Ball State University, cobalt titanate prepared by a modified sol-gel method. Shokufeh Moghiminia, University of Birjand, Fariba Madizadeh, University of Birjand,and Zhihai Li Ball State University

3:45 PM Tyler A. Williams, Jenny Lee, Investigation of Magnetic Particles as a Remediation Tool for Organic 304 Cory A. Diemler, and Mahamud Dyes in the Presence of Colloidal Aggregation. Subir, Ball State University

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

ORAL PRESENTATIONS BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

9:45 AM Eric Hedin, Dept. of Physics & Wind Power Potential for Central Delaware County, IN. 307 Astronomy, Ball State University

10:00 AM Darrell G. Schulze, Purdue The Integrating Spatial Educational Experiences (Isee) App. 307 University and the Isee Network

10:15 AM William P. Gilhooly III, Christine Biogeochemistry of anoxic lakes in Northern Indiana. 307 Picard, Shan Khan, Fotis Fouskas, Broxton Bird, Horia Petrache Indiana University- Purdue University Indianapolis, Merrell A. Johnson Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne 10:30 AM H. Hurst, and S. A. Isiorho, Best Management Practices and Soil Water Quality: Adams County, 307 Department of Geosciences Indiana. Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne 10:45 AM- Martin Kaufman, Department of GIS Identification of Lead Service Pipes in Flint, Michigan 307 11:45 AM Earth Science, University of HOT TOPIC Michigan-Flint, Michigan 2:15 PM S. A. Isiorho, P.W. O’Malley, D. When Field research does not work: The Hydrogeology weekend field 307 Deifenbaugh, C. Pendrick, D. trip. Cole, H. Hurst, R. Yeater, H. Simpson and M. Kalakay, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne 2:30 PM P. W. O'Malley, & S. A. Isiorho, Changing channel morphology of the Maumee River in eastern Allen 307 Department of Geosciences County, Indiana. Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne 2:45 PM Diane K. Baclawski, Michigan Fort Wayne's Legendary Geologist: Frank Bursley Taylor, His Early 307 State University (retired) Years, 1860-1900.

3.00 PM Garre A. Conner, Pangea The Mitchell Aquifer and karst groundwater drainage in the 307 Geoservices, Evansville, Indiana, Mississippian Blue River Group (Visean) in South-Central Indiana.

3:15 PM James O. Farlow, Nathan J. Trackways of the American Crocodile, Northwestern Costa Rica: 307 Robinson, Frank V. Paladino, Implications for Crocodylian Ichnology. Indiana-Purdue University Fort Wayne, Peter L. Falkingham, Liverpool John Moores University and Anthony J. Martin, Emory University 3:30 PM Michelle Spaulding, Purdue CT-imaging and virtual endocast reconstruction in Carnivoramorpha 307 University North Central (Mammalia).

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

ORAL PRESENTATION BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

9:45 AM Julia Hoeh and Joy O’Keefe, Flight and Acoustic Behavior of Indiana Bats Selecting Among 308 Indiana State University Artificial Roost Types.

9:45 AM Sylas Buller, Kathleen Hebble, Avian seed dispersal of native and non-native fruiting plants in a 309 and Laurie S. Eberhardt, Northwest Indiana nature preserve. Valparaiso University

10:00 AM Joy M. O’Keefe, Center for Bat A unique, long-term effort to study an Indiana bat maternity colony 308 Research, Outreach, and near the Indianapolis Airport. Conservation, Indiana State University

10:00 AM Kevin Jewett and David LeBlanc, Climate Effects on Radial Growth of Ash at Lakeside Laboratory, 309 Ball State University Iowa.

10:15 AM Robert J. Arndt and Steven L. Does Moonlight Affect the Movement and Foraging Behavior of Bats 308 Lima, Indiana State University in Indiana Flyways?

10:15 AM Toni Boger, Indiana University Effect of native and non-native plantings in urban parking islands on 309 South Bend and Deborah Marr, diversity and abundance of birds, arthropods, and flower visitors. Indiana University South Bend

10:30 AM Timothy Divoll and Joy O’Keefe, Foraging Habits and Space Use of Endangered Bats at the 308 Center for Bat Research, Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment. Outreach, and Conservation, Indiana State University 10:30 AM Reynolds, Heather L. and Carli Plant-soil feedback not a driver of competitive dynamics among two 309 Gurholt, Indiana University invasive and one native groundcover species of eastern deciduous Bloomington forest.

11:00 AM Rebekah A. Lumkes, Sarah Influence of Northern River Otter Latrine Sites upon Carnivore 308 Meronk, Natalie Euler, Casey C. Activity and Species Richness. Day, and Patrick A. Zollner, Purdue University 11:00 AM Adam R. Warrix, Indiana The use of soil transfer with a native seed bank to control invasive 309 University - Purdue University plant species. Fort Wayne, Betsy Yankowiak, Little River Wetlands Projects,

and Jordan M. Marshall, Indiana University - Purdue University Fort Wayne

11:15 AM Sabrina Schuler, Renee Evaluating seasonal and geographic diet variation in North American 308 Wickliffe, Sarah Meronk, Casey river otters (Lontra canadensis) in Indiana. Day, Patrick Zollner, Purdue University

11:15 AM Jared L. Scott and Elizabeth E. Investigating Vitamin B6 Content in Natural Plant Communities. 309 Rueschhoff, Indiana University Southeast

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

ORAL PRESENTATIONS BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

11:30 AM Sarah A. Abercrombie, Jacob L. Seasonal Foraging by Forest Mice Enhances Loss of Weed Seeds 308 Berl, Elizabeth A. Flaherty, and from Crop Field Edges. Robert K. Swihart, Purdue University 11:30 AM Michael Garvey, Purdue Immunotheraputic effects of plant chemistry as a mediator of host- 309 University, Curtis Creighton, parasite interactions in Manduca sexta. Purdue University Calumet; Ian Kaplan, Purdue University 11:45 AM Maggie A. Wigren and Catherine The effects of food availability on the reproduction and disease 308 Searle, Purdue University susceptibility of Daphnia dentifera and Daphnia lumholtzi.

11:45 AM Robert Brodman, Payton The Effects of Cover Crop on Amphibians. 309 Kellenburger, and Hanna Van Meter, Biology Department, Saint

Joseph’s College, Indiana 2:15 PM Clayton D. Delancey, Claire E. Radio-tagging and tracking of Cerulean Warblers (Setophaga cerulea) 308 Nemes, and Kamal Islam, Ball in southern Indiana. State University

2:15 PM Andrew Stoehr, Butler University Multiple and sometimes interacting factors influence complex plastic 309 phenotypes in the cabbage white butterfly.

2:30 PM James Bandoli, University of Filial Cannibalism in Spottail Darters Includes the Targeted Removal 308 Southern Indiana of Infected Eggs.

2:30 PM Jeffrey D. Holland, Ashley L. Novel Functional Diversity Traits of Insect Communities. 309 Kissick, Purdue University

2:45 PM E. Anders Kiledal and Anthony The Potential Role of Hypolimnetic Gases, Temperature, and 308 L. Swinehart, Hillsdale College, Hydrostatic Pressure on the Mortality and Taphonomy of Freshwater Hillsdale, MI Fishes.

2:45 PM Ashley L. Kissick and Jeffrey D. Stability mechanisms in beetle functional groups. 309 Holland, Purdue University

3:00 PM Dominique D. Turney, Patrick A. Using Capture-Recapture Models to Estimate Angler Abundance in 308 Zollner, Benjamin M. Gramig, Southern Lake Michigan. Charles R. Roswell, Benjamin D. Dickinson and Mitchell T. Zischke 3:00 PM Thomas A Sobat, Ivy Tech Undergraduate research at Ivy Tech Community College Columbus: 309 Community College Columbus The Forest Ecology Project. (Ecology Education Presentation).

3:15 PM Paige Weldy, Erin Kenison, and Assessing predator detection and avoidance behavior of rusty 308 Rod Williams, Purdue University crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) in the presence of hellbenders (Cryptobranchus allegeniensis) and smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu).

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

ORAL PRESENTATIONS BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

3:15 PM Kemuel Badger, John Taylor, A Decade of Change in Cooper Woods, a Central Indiana Till-Plain 309 Don Ruch, Ahmed Hubini and Flatwoods. Megan Crecelius. Ball State University

3:30 PM Eric Stadig, Purdue University Optimizing Trap Design for Capture of Amphipods in Western Lake 308 (Fort Wayne), Stephen Hensler, Erie. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Robert Gillespie and William DeMott, Purdue University Fort Wayne

3:30 PM Carly Hubbard & Anthony L. Re-examination of an 80-year-old peat core from Bacon’s Swamp 309 Swinehart, Department of reveals new understanding of the natural history of Indiana’s Biology, Hillsdale College, southernmost Sphagnum bog. Hillsdale, Michigan

3:45 PM Nicole Chodkowski and Randall Parasite Effects on Freshwater snail, Elimia livescens Elemental 308 J. Bernot, Ball State University Content and Metabolism.

3:45 PM Blake T. Moskal, and Sean T. Soil Health within Indianapolis Urban Gardens. 309 Berthrong, Butler University

11:30 AM Terry West and Darryl Granger, Radiocarbon Date of Base of Gravel Sluiceway, Wea Creek Plain, 301 Purdue University Near Lafayette, Tippecanoe, Indiana.

9:45 AM Samuel Ozeh, A. G. Agwu Smart Phone-based Quantitative Detection of Trace Heavy Metal in 306 Nnanna, Purdue University Aqueous Media in Real time using HSV Color Space. Calumet and Justus Ndukaife, Purdue University, and Purdue University Calumet

10:00 AM Aubrey R. Bunch, U.S. Loads of Nitrate, Total Phosphorus, and Suspended Solids from 306 Geological Survey Indiana- Indana Watersheds. Kentucky Water Science Center 10:15 PM Tazin Fahmi and Ahmed Sea Urchin: Recent Advances in Aquaculture. 306 Mustafa, Indiana University-

Purdue University Fort Wayne

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program ORAL PRESENTATIONS BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

9:45 AM Nick Miller: Indiana University-Purdue Bdellovibrio bacteriovorous: The Hydrodynamic Hunter. 305 University

10:00 AM Sarah Hummel, Stephanie Konkle, An examination of the effect of red yeast rice extract on 305 Heather A. Bruns, Philip Albiniak macrophage functions. Ball State University

10:15 AM Chioniso Patience Masamha,Butler Discovery and characterization of a novel miRNA recalcitrant 305 University, Todd A. Albrecht and Eric CCND1/MRCK fusion gene in Mantle Cell Lymphoma. J. Wagner, University of Texas

10:30 AM Joshua Anger and Gretchen Examining the alkaline protease activity of the unique 305 Kirchner, Indiana University Southeast species Halobacillus. Sp. BBL2006.

10:45 AM Dan Smith, Goshen College, Jacob Domestic Pigeons: The Dilution Series. 305 Swartley, Goshen College, Stuart Kurtz, Goshen College

11:00 AM Hisako Masuda, Naoki Awano and ydfD Encodes a Novel Lytic Protein in Escherichia coli. 305 Masayori Inouye, Indiana University Kokomo, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School

11:15 AM John M. Dunn, Hanover College, Effects of pax2a mutations on craniofacial development in 305 Stephanie L. Lerach, University of zebrafish. Minnesota, Stacy L. Solin, Iowa State University, Ames, IA Maura McGrail, Iowa State University, Lisa A. Schimmenti, University of Minnesota, Pamela R. Pretorius, Hanover College

11:30 AM Yongsheng Bai, Jeff Kinne , Aaron Fast identification of genome-wide non-canonical spliced regions, 305 Cox, Feng Jiang, Justin R. Hassler, including IRE1α targeted regions with Read-Split-Fly algorithm. Randal J. Kaufman, Indiana State University, Sanford-Burnham-Prebys Medical Discovery Institute

2:15 PM Stuart Kurtz, Goshen College, Nhu- Pigmentation Genetics of Domestic Pigeons: Pink-Eyed Dilute. 305 Thinh Nguyen, University of Texas at Arlington, Dan Smith, Goshen College, John Fondon III, University of Texas at Arlington, Texas

2:30 PM Callum Walker, Heather Bruns, Inhibition of host Rho GTPase CDC42 decreases 305 Susan McDowell intracellular Salmonella Typhimurium populations and alters Ball State University macrophage surface protein expression.

2:45 PM Jacob J. Kinnun Indiana University- Raft Busters: A Molecular Role for DHA in Biological 305 Purdue University Indianapolis; Justin Membranes? A. Williams, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis; William Stillwell, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis; Robert Bittman Queens College of CUNY; Saame Raza Shakh, East Carolina University; and Stephen R. Wassall Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

3:00 PM Montana Campbell, Steven Assessing Mitochondrial Population Genetics of the Eastern Box 305 J.A.Kimble, and Rod N.Williams, Turtle, Terrapene c. Carolina in Indiana. Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University 2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

ORAL PRESENTATIONS BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

9:45 AM- Maxim Lyutikov, Purdue Detection of Gravitational Waves 310 10:15 AM University HOT TOPIC

10:30 AM Patrick Kelley, Tony Lee, Indiana Wigner Functions of Linear, Nonlinear, and Purely Non-Hermitian 310 University- Purdue University Dissipative Cavities. Indianapolis

10:30 AM Uwe Hansen, Indiana State “In the footsteps of Stradivarius” 21st Century Mode Studies of Modern 306 University, University of Bowed String Instruments Indianapolis, Rose-Hulman HOT TOPIC Institute of Technology 10:45 AM Alan A. Gavel II, Robert C. Eclipsing Binary Stars from the All Sky Automated Survey and 310 Berrington, Ball State University Northern Sky Variability Survey.

11:00 AM Mohammed Al Juboori, Hossein A Hydrodynamic Hunter. 310 Jashnsaz, Tyler Nguyen, Stephanie Perkins, Nick Miller, Viktoria Meyerhoff, Bryan McCoy, Gregory Anderson, Bruce Ray, and Steve Pressé, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis. 11:15 AM Patrick M Motl, Indiana University Are R Corona Borealis Stars the Remnants of Double White Dwarf 310 Kokomo Mergers?

11:30 AM Uwe J. Hansen, Indiana State Finite Element Calculations in the Physics Classroom. 310 University, University of Indianapolis and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology 11:45 AM Mason Boles, Ranjith Wijesinghe, Application of Complex Functions to the Electric field in 2-D. 310 Ball State University, Richard Stankewitz, Ball State University

2:15 PM Robert C. Berrington, Thomas The Ball State University Short-Period Variable Star Program. 310 Jordan, Alan Gavel, Michael Holcomb, Jon Van de Water, Erin Tuhey, Ball State University 2:30 PM Stevie Bastin, Tony Lee, Indiana Ion crystals in anharmonic traps. 310 University- Purdue University Indianapolis

2:45 PM Jon Van de Water, Robert Modeling of Select Short Period Eclipsing Binary Stars in the 310 Berrington, Ball State University Southern Hemisphere

3:00 PM Antonio C. Cancio and Jeremy Scaling properties of the kinetic energy density of atoms -- towards an 310 Redd, Ball State University orbital-free description.

3:15 PM Le Luo, Jiaming Li, Ji Liu, Three-body recombination in a strongly interacting Fermi gas. 310 Leonardo deMelo, Xin Chin Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis 3:30 PM- Guillermo Gonzalez, Ball State What’s New with Pluto? 310 4:00 PM University

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

ORAL PRESENTATIONS BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

9:45 AM Donald G. Ruch, Kemuel S. Badger, John E. A Floristic Survey of Holthouse Woods Nature Preserve 311 Taylor, Megan E. Smith and Samantha Bell, in Wayne County, Indiana. Ball State University, and Paul E. Rothrock, Indiana University 10:00 AM Megan Crecelius, Don Ruch, Ahmed Hubini, Floristic Inventory of Hayes Arboretum’s Constructed 311 John Taylor and Kem Badger, Ball State Wetlands and Associated Woodlands, Wayne County, University Indiana.

10:15 AM Ahmed Hubini, Don Ruch, Megan Crecelius, Floristic Inventory of the Cooper Woods -- Skinner 311 John Taylor and Kem Badger, Ball State Woods Complex, Delaware County, Indiana. University

10:30 AM Scott Namestnik, Orbis Environmental Flora of Steele Prairie State Preserve, Cherokee 311 Consulting, and Mary Damm, Orbis County, Iowa. Environmental Consulting,

10:45 AM Michael A. Homoya, Indiana Department of A Lost Grassland – The Historic Occurrence of 311 Natural Resources, Division of Nature Canebrakes in the Lower Ohio Valley of Indiana. Preserves, Indianapolis, IN 11:00 AM Scott A. Namestnik, Orbis Environmental The First Documented Record of Equisetum 311 Consulting sylvaticum L. [Equisetaceae] in Indiana.

11:15 AM Rebecca W. Dolan, Butler University Invasive plants in Indianapolis: History and current 311 status.

11:30 AM Sara Tabner, Justin Ivers, Pierre N'Guetta, Phylogenetic Utility of Low-Copy Nuclear Genes for 311 Kathryn Riley, and Andrew Schnabel, Indiana Resolving Relationships University South Bend Within Gleditsia (Leguminosae) and Genera of the Umtiza Clade.

2:15 PM Eric B. Knox, Department of Biology, Indiana The Cosmopolitan Radiation of Lobelia (Lobeliaceae). 311 University Bloomington

2:30 PM David Aronson, Robert Reber, Taylor Impacts of Grass-specific Herbicide Application and 311 University; Adam Thada, Cardno, Inc.; Paul Burning on the Establishment of Interseeded Forbs in a Rothrock, Indiana University Bloomington Tallgrass Prairie Restoration – The Third Growing Season.

2:45 PM Rothrock, Paul and Eric Knox, Indiana Curating IU’s Deam Herbarium: Hair Raising or Hair 311 University Bloomington Splitting?

3:00 PM- Ellen M. Jacquart, The Nature Conservancy The New Invasive Plant Threats to Indiana - What To 311 3:30 PM of Indiana Watch For. HOT TOPIC

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program ORAL PRESENTATIONS BY SECTION

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION RM#

9:45 AM Sarah Fischer, Kamal Islam, Ball Bird-window collisions on a university campus in Indiana: 312 State University comparing collision rates and migration phenology.

10:00 AM Claire E. Nemes, Clayton Breeding season microhabitat use by Cerulean Warblers 312 Delancey, and Kamal Islam, Ball (Setophaga cerulea) in southern Indiana. State University 10:15 AM Ardith Wang, Obed Hernandez- Assessing microbiome of historic and current river habitats for 312 Gomez, Rod N. Williams, Purdue Eastern Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) University in Southern Indiana.

10:30 AM Marianna Zamlauski- Changes in Malondialdehyde (MDA) Levels with Age in the 312 Tucker, Cameron Behringer and Nucleus, Cytosol and Mitochondria from Rat Kidney Cortex and Natalya Mezenina, Ball State Medulla. University 10:45 AM Kent Edmonds, Indiana University Effects of Environmental Enrichment on 1) Photostimulated and 2) 312 Southeast Spontaneous Ovarian Recrudescence in the Adult Female Marsh Rice Rat (Oryzomys palustris).

11:00 AM- Gene Kritsky, Mount St. Joseph The Tears of Re: Beekeeping in Ancient Egypt. 303 11:30 AM University, Cincinnati, Ohio HOT TOPIC

Book Signing will take place at 4:00 today in the Poster area.

11:15 AM Lindsay N. Beasley -, Evie K. When can embryos learn? A test of the timing of learning in 312 Sehr, Kurtis W. Wilson - and Brian embryonic amphibians. G. Gall, Hanover College 11:15 AM- Joel Vanderbush Connecting with Nature, both Inside and Out 302 12:00 noon ANIMALIA HOT TOPIC

11:30 AM Md Mursalin Khan, Elliott Lymphocyte Proliferation of Nile tilapia Using Elderberry Extract. 312 Blumenthal, and Ahmed Mustafa, Indiana University-Purdue

University Fort Wayne

11:45 AM Md Ibrahim and Ahmed Mustafa, Future of Aquaculture: Re-circulatory System or Aquaponics 312 Indiana University- Purdue Systems? University Fort Wayne 2:15 PM Richard Manalis, Goshen College Contractile measurements from frog (rana pipiens) gastrocnemius 312 and Jessica Davila, Goshen muscle used for the first time to study short-term synaptic plasticity. College

2:30 PM Zachery T. Laughlin and Thomas The effects of forest fragmentation: Establishment of perimeter 312 A. Sobat, Ivy Tech Community communities in temperate deciduous forests. College Columbus 2:45 PM Glene Mynhardt, Emily Lessig, Diversity in decay: Study of xylophagous and saprophagous beetles 312 Darrin Rubino, Hanover College (Insecta: Coleoptera) infesting decaying wood in southeastern Indiana.

3:00 PM Michael B. Roberts and Randy Amplitude Plasticity in Mating Duets of 312 Hunt, Indiana University Southeast Male Erythroneura Leafhoppers During Mate Finding.

3:15 PM Randy E. Hunt, Indiana University The advantage of calling second: Influence of vibrational masking 312 Southeast on male mating success in the leafhopper Macropsis fumipennis.

3:30 PM Lindsay N. Beasley, Hanover Genetic identification of forensically-important dermestid beetles 312 College, Pamela R. Pretorius, (Coleoptera: Dermestidae). Hanover College, and Glené Mynhardt, Hanover College 3:45 PM Kristi Bugajski and Beth Diurnal oviposition timing of blow flies and DNA identification of 312 Scaglione-Sewell early arrivers.

Valparaiso University

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

POSTER PRESENTATIONS- 4:15 PM TO 5:55 PM

(NOTE: ODD NUMBERS PRESENT AT 4:15 PM- 5:00 PM; EVEN NUMBERS PRESENT 5:05 PM -5:55 PM)

1 AN Marisa Teal Ketchum, University of Tertiary Transfer of DNA by Examination Gloves between Evidentiary Indianapolis, Erin Vollmer, University of Items at Crime Scenes. Indianapolis, Jenna Carnes, University of Indianapolis; Krista E. Latham Strand Analytical Laboratories, Indianapolis IN and University of Indianapolis; Cynthia Cale, Strand Analytical Laboratories, Indianapolis IN; Gay Bush, University of Indianapolis 2 AN Helen M. Brandt, Kathleen L. Paschal, A Comparison of Primary Transfer Touch DNA from Different Regions Amanda S. Khan, Brooke E. Meyer; Justin of the Body. Maiers, Krista E. Latham, University of Indianapolis; Cynthia Cale, Strand Analytical Laboratories and University of Indianapolis; Gay Bush, Strand Analytical Laboratories 3 BO Madhavi Sreenath, Michael Tobin and Relationships among flower color, flower size and seed production in Elisabeth Wilson, DePauw bouncing bet, Saponaria officinalis. University, Sandra Davis, University of Indianapolis, Dana Dudle, DePauw University 4 CB Saki Mihori, Donald F. Ready, Purdue Förster Resonance Energy Transfer of Cerulean and Venus University Fluorescent Proteins In Live Drosophila melanogaster Eyes.

5 CB Andrew Wright and Russell Schwarte Acetylcholine Receptors Associate with Lipid Rafts at NMJs as Indiana Wesleyan University Determined by Acceptor Photobleaching in Living Cells. 6 CB Paige Stansell, Jacklyn Miller, and Assessing the Effects of Garcinol and EGCG on Breast Cancer Cell Kimberly Baker, University of Indianapolis Proliferation.

7 CB Ashleigh D South, Sarah Engle Development of Tools to Study the Degradation of Translocon- Eric M Rubenstein, Ball State University Associated Proteins.

8 CB Khaled Noui-Mehidi, Logan Ganzen, Yuk Differential Visual Motor Response in the Q344X Transgenic Zebrafish. Fai Leung, Purdue University 9 CB Sean Bogardus, Jocelyne Hanquier, Directed Interrogation of Microvenvironnmental Influences on Catherine Wheeler, and Colleen Doci, Vascularity and Metastasis in Head and Neck Cancer Cell Lines. Marian University 10 CB Jesse Smallwood, Natasa Petreska, Elucidating protein kinase C substrates involved in internalization of the

POSTER PRESENTATIONS PRESENTATIONS POSTER Alexander Ahlgrim and Patrice G Bouyer, Na+-K+-2Cl− cotransporter in the human colonic crypt cells T84. Valparaiso University 11 CB Noah J. Levi, Graham Redweik, Jared R. Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Alters the Transcriptional Profile Santana, Zachery R. Campbell, Heidi E. of GnRH-Producing GT1-7 Cells. Walsh, Wabash College 12 CB Alan M. Michelson, National Institutes of Genetic, genomic and computational analyses of heart development in Health and Shaad M. Ahmad, Indiana Drosophila. State University

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY GI General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program POSTER PRESENTATIONS- 4:15 PM TO 5:55 PM

(NOTE: ODD NUMBERS PRESENT AT 4:15 PM- 5:00 PM; EVEN NUMBERS PRESENT 5:05 PM -5:55 PM)

13 CB Sierra C. Williams and Jennifer R. Investigation of potential interactions between the G-protein coupled Kowalski, Butler University receptor FSHR-1 and neuropeptides in controlling synaptic transmission in C. elegans.

14 CB Victoria Kreyden, Kristen M. Rush, Investigation of the neuronal functions of the SUMO enzyme UBC-9 in Morgan K Harrison, Jennifer R. Kowalski, C. elegans. Butler University 15 CB Alexander Wetmore, Marian University Low Doses of Actinomycin D Selectively Inhibit Cancer Cells with Indianapolis; Colleen L. Doci, Marian Nucleolar Amplification. University 16 CB David Huston and Eric (VJ) Rubenstein, Protein Quality Control Enzymes Sensitize Cells to Proposed Ball State University Chemotherapeutic Agent.

17 CB Varun Subramanyam, Nicholas Carpita, The effect of lignin composition on the cell wall polysaccharides Maureen McCann, Haibing Yang, Richard composition and cell-cell separation in poplar woody biomass. Meilan, Purdue University 18 CB Bryce Buchanan and Eric Rubenstein, The effects of ER stress on protein quality control degradation Ball State University pathways.

19 CB Patrick Tiffany, Sylvia Bonilla, Meng She, The Effects of Thyroid Hormone on Opsin During Zebrafish Retinal and Martin Tiang, Purdue University Development.

20 CB Lauryn Campagnoli, Daniel K. Lester, and The investigation of SYD-2 as a potential substrate of the Anaphase Jennifer R. Kowalski, Butler University Promoting Complex in promoting GABA release at the C. elegans neuromuscular junction.

21 CH Chelsea M. McCurdy and Stephen A. Investigation of the Substrate Specificity of L-Idonate Steiner, Hanover College Dehydrogenase By Site-directed Mutagenesis. 22 CH Brian Gabet, University of Saint Francis, A Chemical Analysis of Berberine: Solubility and Decomposition Teresa Beam, Manchester University Studies.

23 CH Ruth E. Nalliah, Huntington University A Research Project for Freshman Chemistry Lab: Degradation of Pharmaceutical Pollutants.

24 CH Hanyang Zhou, Jerry Sheu and Sundeep Anion-binding properties of tetrazolones and tetrazolethiones. Rayat, Ball State University 25 CH Jake Yagodinski, Kenzie Glassburn, Comparative Studies of Efficiency of Endogenous Organo-Sulfur Franklin College Antioxidants.

26 CH John W. Luckmann, Indiana University- Composite Films of Chitosan and Polyvinyl alcohol. Purdue University Indianapolis/Indiana PRESENTATIONS POSTER University-Purdue University Columbus, and James D. Mendez Indiana University- Purdue University Columbus 27 CH My N. Bui and Emil F. Khisamutdinov, Ball Construction of Nucleic Acid Nano-Architectures Based on Flexible State University tetra-U Linking Module.

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY

GI General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

POSTER PRESENTATIONS- 4:15 PM TO 5:55 PM

(NOTE: ODD NUMBERS PRESENT AT 4:15 PM- 5:00 PM; EVEN NUMBERS PRESENT 5:05 PM -5:55 PM)

28 CH Brandon Wysong, Lana Serikof, Hisako Differential Effects of Heavy Metals Ions on Recombinant Green- Masuda, Indiana University Kokomo Fluorescent Protein (GFP). 29 CH Jessica Lokotar, Grace College, Grant New Proposed Route to Thiapentalenes. Carlson, Grace College, Nathan Tice, University of Findlay, Chad Snyder, Grace College 30 CH Margaret Schmits, Daniel Headley, and Photolysis of p-Nitrophenolate at the air-water interface as Investigated Mahamud Subir, Ball State University by Second Harmonic Generation Spectroscopy. 31 CH Seyyed Amirhossein Hosseini, Hossein Preparation of Nickel Tungstate (NiWO4) Nanoparticles and Farsi, and Zhihai Li, Ball State University Characterization with Electrochemical Methods in Combination with Mott-schottky Theory. 32 CH Nicole Woodall and Tykhon Zubkov, Ball Semiconductor-Mediated Photodegradation of Model Contaminants: State University Comparing the Performance of WS2 and TiO2 at Different Wavelengths

of Light. 33 CH Charles Sayger, Benjamin Averill, Kelsey Spectroscopic Analysis of the Kinetics of Host-Guest Chemistry. Larson, Miroslava Repak, and Jennifer Holt, Valparaiso University

34 CH Jessica Caldwell and James Mendez, The Impacts of Degree of Acetylation on Mechanical Strength and Indiana University-Purdue University Thermal Properties of Chitin Based Films. Columbus 35 CH Hanyang Zhou and Sundeep Rayat, Ball Tuning the physiochemical properties of tetrazolones with co- State University crystallization. 36 CH Karen Smiar, Indiana University-Purdue Utilizing 3D Printing to Create Models for Chemistry Education. University Columbus, James Mendez, Indiana University- Purdue University Columbus 37 EC Abigail Schnelker, Department of Biology, An examination of possible glacial effects on the genetic variation of Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Creek Chub (Semotilus atromaculatus) populations. Wayne, Michael J. Blum, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Tulane University Mark A. Jordan, Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

38 EC Ashley D. Taylor, Robert B. Gillespie, Comparison of freshwater mussel communities from 1988 to 2015 in the Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Cedar Creek Watershed, Indiana. Wayne, and Peter C. Smiley Jr., USDA- ARS Soil Drainage Research Unit, Columbus, Ohio POSTER PRESENTATIONS PRESENTATIONS POSTER 39 EC Jacob L. Berl, Elizabeth A. Flaherty, and Does Intra-population Niche Partitioning Lead to Variation in the Robert K. Swihart, Purdue University Functional Role of Individuals within Generalist Populations?

40 EC Jasmine Peele, Courtney Nix, Patrick Effects of Woody Biomass Harvests on a Population of Plethodontid Ruhl, Rob Chapman, and Patrick Zollner, Salamanders in Southeast Indiana. Purdue University

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY I AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

POSTER PRESENTATIONS- 4:15 PM TO 5:55 PM

(NOTE: ODD NUMBERS PRESENT AT 4:15 PM- 5:00 PM; EVEN NUMBERS PRESENT 5:05 PM -5:55 PM)

41 EC Briana K. Whitaker, Qing Chai, Natalie Fungal endophyte community characterization in the plant family Christian, and Keith Clay, Indiana Asteraceae – do microbiomes correlate with plant phylogenetic University relatedness? 42 EC Scott Collins, Indiana University-Purdue Impact of global environmental changes on an exotic invasive University Indianapolis species, Alliaria petiolata (garlic mustard). 43 EC Madison Heflin and Hisako Masuda Microbial Diversity: The Seasonal Effects on the Microbial Population in Department of Chemistry, Indiana a Soil Ecosystem. University Kokomo 44 EC Anna Hartsuff, Evin T. Carter, and Mark Population Genetics of the Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) in Jordan, Indiana University-Purdue Southern Indiana. University Fort Wayne 45 EC Giesela Pierce and Vanessa S. Quinn. Roadkill Hotspots in the Dunes National Lakeshore.

Department of Biology and Chemistry, Purdue North Central 46 EC Jasmine R. Barney and Joy M. O’Keefe, Thermoregulatory strategies of Indiana bats and northern long-eared Center for Bat Research, Outreach, and bats in the southern Appalachian Mountains. Conservation, Indiana State University

47 EQ Alicia Conrad, Robert B. Gillespie, Indiana Effects of exposure to agricultural drainage ditch water on survivorship, University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, distribution and abundance of riffle beetles (Coleoptera: Elmidae) in Peter C. Smiley Jr., USDA-ARS Soil headwater streams of the Cedar Creek Watershed, Indiana. Drainage Research Unit, Columbus, OH, and Punya Nachappa, Indiana University- Purdue University Fort Wayne 48 EQ Benjamin G. Kreitner, Melody J. Bernot, Factors influencing the abundance of sucralose in the Ohio River and Ball State University potential for microbial degradation. 49 EQ Lucas H. Clay and John Pichtel, Ball State Influence of amendments on soil and plant properties after exposure to University hydraulic fracturing fluids. 50 EQ Tyler Wood, Robert B. Gillespie, Indiana Influence of instream habitat and water quality on aggressive behavior University-Purdue University Fort Wayne in crayfish of channelized headwater streams. and Peter C. Smiley Jr., USDA-ARS Soil Drainage Research Unit, Columbus, OH 51 EQ Lindsay Hylton and Jessique Ghezzi, Microplastic Pollution in Indiana’s White River: An exploratory study. Ph.D, Ball State University 52 EQ Tina M. Williams, Jennifer C. Latimer, Jase Quantifying Anthropogenic Nutrients Fluxes in a Modern Recreational Hixson and Jeffery Stone, Department of Resevoir: Example from Chain O’ Lakes State Park, Indiana. Earth and Environmental Systems, Indiana PRESENTATIONS OSTER

State University, Terre Haute, IN P

53 EQ Kris Green and Jessi Ghezzi The Effects of Annual Ryegrass and Gated Tile Drainage on Subsurface Ball State University Nutrient Movement. 54 ES William S. Elliott, Jr., University of Geochemical variability of roof shales in the Carbondale Group Southern Indiana, [email protected] (Pennsylvanian) of southwestern Indiana. 55 ES Shelby Johnston and King S Isiorho Getting down to earth along the IPFW Creek. Department of Geosciences, Indiana University-Purdue University Ft Wayne (IPFW) Fort Wayne, IN 46805

PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

POSTER PRESENTATIONS- 4:15 PM TO 5:55 PM

(NOTE: ODD NUMBERS PRESENT AT 4:15 PM- 5:00 PM; EVEN NUMBERS PRESENT 5:05 PM – 5:55 PM)

56 ES Bethany Kile, Jeffery R. Stone, Jennifer C. Herd Lake: The Recent Sediment History of a Varved, Landslide- Latimer, Indiana State University Dammed Lake. Mark Shapley, Bruce Finney, and Sira Barnes, Idaho State University 57 ES Ross Yeater and K Solomon Isiorho Monitoring Groundwater Properties in a Wetland on the IPFW Campus. Department of Geosciences Indiana University-Purdue University Fort

Wayne 58 ES Mason Frauhiger, Michael Stoller, Ordovician Biostratigraphy of Cincinnatian Fossils. Benjamin Dattilo, IPFW 59 ES Michael Stoller Osteology of Miocene fossil fishes from the Nevada Test Site. Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

60 ES J. Ghezzi, Assistant Professor of Soil The Joys of Teaching: Effects of Legumes on Growing Corn. Science, Ball State University 61 ES Dan Deifenbaugh & K. S. Isiorho Dept of Where is the water coming from? A seep study in the Upper Wabash Geosciences, River Basin. Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne 62 MB Nehal Ninad, University of Southern Antiviral activity comparison among variants of Avaren-Fc, an HIV Indiana; Lauren Kasinger, University of microbicide candidate. Louisville School of Medicine; Nobuyuki Matoba, University of Louisville School of Medicine. 63 MB Cody Bennett and Bartholomew A. The characterization of a mouse model generated by the Cre-lox system Pederson, Ball State University for use in diabetes research. 64 MB Htayni P. Sui, Southport High School, Affinity of Cholesterol for Phospholipids. Jacob J. Kinnun, IUPUI School of Science, Bruce D. Ray, IUPUI School of Science, and Stephen R. Wassall, IUPUI School of Science 65 MB Nathanael Black, Philip Albiniak, Heather An examination of the effect of red yeast rice extract on B cell functions. A. Bruns, Ball State University 66 MB Stephanie Konkle, Sarah Hummel, An examination of the effect of red yeast rice extract on macrophage Heather A. Bruns, Philip Albiniak functions. Ball State University 67 MB Kayla Mughmaw (Presenter)Clare L. Assessment of DPH Effects on Sperm-Egg ZP binding and Protein POSTER PRESENTATIONS PRESENTATIONS POSTER ChatotDepartment of BiologyBall State Expression of ß-1, 4- Galactosyltransferase and Proacrosin. University 68 MB Rachel Kunnen, Carlie Erne, Jasmine Characterization of EspA and EspB Roles in Moore, and Lindsay M Gielda, Purdue Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli Plant Colonization. University-North Central 69 MB Catherine Wheeler , Jocelyne Classification of Antibiotic Properties from Local Soil Microbes and a Hanquier , Madison McKinney , Colleen Screening for Anti-Inflammatory Substances. Doci Marian University

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

POSTER PRESENTATIONS- 4:15 PM TO 5:55 PM

(NOTE: ODD NUMBERS PRESENT AT 4:15 PM- 5:00 PM; EVEN NUMBERS PRESENT 5:05 PM -5:55 PM)

70 MB Christopher J. Indovina, Sarah M. Engle, Determining Genes Required for Degradation of Translocon-Clogging Ashleigh D. South, Jacob C Davis, and Eric Proteins. M. Rubenstein, Ball State University 71 MB Menna Hassan, Prahatha Venkatraman Effects of Epigallocatechin gallate on photoreceptor degeneration and Yuk Fai Leung, Purdue University Zebrafish model assessed by Visual behavior.

72 MB Jennifer M. Baker, Indiana Wesleyan Genomic analysis of Rhodoferax antarcticus, a cold-adapted University, Austin W. Newell, Indiana photosynthetic bacterium from an Antarctic microbial mat. Wesleyan University; Tingting Zhao, Arizona State University; Wesley D. Swingley, Northern Illinois University; Carli J. Riester, Indiana Wesleyan University; Blair Skinner, Indiana Wesleyan University; Deborah O. Jung, Southern Illinois University; Marie Asao, The Ohio State University; Min Chen, The University of Sydney; Patrick Louglin, The University of Sydney; Hao Pan, The University of Sydney; Simon Lin, The University of Sydney; Nicole Li, The University of Sydney; Jacob Shaw, Washington University St. Louis; Mindy Prado, Washington University St. Louis; Chris Sherman, Washington University St. Louis; Xianglu Li, Washington University St. Louis, Joseph Tang, Washington University St. Louis, Michael T. Madigan, Southern Illinois University, Robert E. Blakenship, Washington University St. Louis; Jeffrey W. Touchman, Arizona State University, and W. Matthew Sattley, Indiana Wesleyan University

73 MB Kortany Baker, Emma Magers, Ashleigh Initial Compatibility Assessment of Five Alkane Monooxygenases Skiles, Steven Ly, Hisako Masuda, Indiana of Aquabacterium sp strain NJ01 and Electron Transport Proteins University Kokomo from Pseudomonas fluorescens.

74 MB Julie A. Bethany, John Grant and Investigation of PDX1.2 and PDX2 Protein-Protein Interactions Elizabeth Rueschhoff, Indiana University in Arabidopsis thaliana. Southeast PRESENTATIONS POSTER 75 MB Jance Carter, David Treves, Indiana Isolation and characterization of antibacterial secondary metabolites University Southeast produced by salt spring isolates.

76 MB Danielle LaFleur and Gretchen Kirchner, Knockout of a gene in Halobacillus with homology to the Bacillus subtilis Indiana University Southeast sinR gene.

77 MB Megan Hubbard, Clare Chatot, Ball State Male Infertility Due to Dilantin: Examining Potential Decrease in Sperm University Motility and CatSper Calcium Channel Abundance in Mouse Sperm Cells.

PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

POSTER PRESENTATIONS- 4:15 PM TO 5:55 PM

(NOTE: ODD NUMBERS PRESENT AT 4:15 PM- 5:00 PM; EVEN NUMBERS PRESENT 5:05 PM – 5:55 PM)

78 MB Avery M. Sampson., John L. McKillip, Molecular analysis of the bacterial community in boreal peatlands. Allison R. Rober, Kevin H. Wyatt, Ball State University 79 MB James Welch, Purdue University, Restoration of Mature let-7 MircoRNA Through Small Molecule Sunghyun (Sander) Myoung, Purdue Discovery. University, Sergey Savinov, University of Massachusetts, Bradley P. Loren, Purdue University, David Thompson, Purdue University and, Andrea Kasinski, Purdue University 80 MB Todd R. Myers, Staci A. Weaver, Shannon Role of Brain Glycogen in Motor Memory. N. Sharp, and Bartholomew A. Pederson,

Ball State University 81 MB Cara C. Wilhelm, University of Saint Testing the Antimicrobial Properties of Quaternary Ammonium Salt Francis Berberine chloride.

82 MB Erin Vollmer, Abiola Laguda, Justin The Preliminary Observations of Spermiogenesis in the Elegant Earless Rheubert, Kevin Gribbins, University of Lizard, Holbrookia Elegans. Indianapolis, and University of Findlay Ohio 83 MB Kumud Joshi, and Vamsi Nalam, Indiana The process of Rag5 conferred resistance to soybean aphids. University-Purdue University Fort Wayne 84 MB Daniel C. Smith, Ball State University; The Role of Glycogen in Hypoglycemia-induced Memory Loss. Staci A. Weaver, Ball State University; Sarah E. Canada, Ball State University; Bartholomew A. Pederson, Indiana School of Medicine-Muncie 85 MB Katherine M. Strelau, David A. Hess, and The transcription factor MIST1 regulates secretory cell homeostasis and Stephen F. Konieczny, Purdue University stress responses through newly identified target genes.

86 MB Ryan Wyer, Logan Ganzen, Purdue Visual motor response optimization and polydatin drug analysis on rod University, and Yuk Fai Leung, Purdue cells in zebrafish. University 87 PA A. Mosey, B. Gaire, R. Cheng, J. Kim, J. E. Cobalt Nanoparticles Synthesis on Low Surface Energy Substrates by Ryu, Indiana University-Purdue University Solid State Dewetting. Indianapolis. 88 PA Travis K Everhart and Mahfuza Khatun, Electronic Properties of Graphene and Beyond. Ball State University 89 PA Albert DiBenedetto, Mahfuza Khatun, and Electronic Properties of Hexagonal Boron Nitride and Graphene

POSTER PRESENTATIONS PRESENTATIONS POSTER Antonio Cancio, Ball State University Nanoribbons.

90 PA Adithan Kathirgamaraju, Rodolfo Barniol Gamma Ray Burst afterglows seen off-axis. Duran, Dimitrios Giannios, Purdue University 91 PA Tyler Nguyen (IUSM), Bryan McCoy, Hydrodynamic Hunters. Mohammed Al-Jaboori, Hossein Jashnsaz, Nicholas Miller, Stephanie Perkins, Bruce Ray, Gregory Anderson, Steve Presse Indiana University- Purdue University Indianapolis

PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

POSTER PRESENTATIONS- 4:15 PM TO 5:55 PM

(NOTE: ODD NUMBERS PRESENT AT 4:15 PM- 5:00 PM; EVEN NUMBERS PRESENT 5:05 PM – 5:55 PM)

92 PA Mattison Siri and Mark F. Masters Mode-Locking and Gain-Switching of a 15 Watt, 808 nm Laser Diode. Indiana University- Purdue University Fort Wayne 93 PA Ian Christie, Maria Petropoulou Modelling Accretion Disk and Stellar Wind Interactions: the Case of Sgr Petar Mimica, Dimitrios Giannios, Purdue A*. University 94 PA Kakathi Tummala and Mark F. Masters, Using Single Photons for Imaging. Indiana University - Purdue University Fort Wayne 95 PB Ryan Schroeder, Darrell Schulze, Purdue Developing Probability Maps for Locating and Scouting Unprotected University, Derek Luchik, The Nature Areas of Gravel Hill Prairies on Rodman Soils along the Wabash River Conservancy, and Bob Easter, NICHES Valley Near Lafayette, Indiana.

Land Trust

96 PB Meghan J. Wright, F. Collin Hobbs, Biodiversity of the Huntington University Arboretum compared to a local Huntington University natural forest. 97 PB Jean A. Donaldson, Michelle R. Hoover- Genetic diversity of a native white pine (Pinus strobus) stand in Indiana. Ferretti, F. Collin Hobbs, Huntington University 98 PS Paula Eddleman, Ben Sebastian, Karissa Does emotional context affect sympathetic nervous system activity Light, Adam Schwartz, Rodney W. following physiological stressor? Roosevelt, Indiana University Southeast 99 SE Nicole Chodkowski and Allison R. Rober, A parasitic view of animal physiology: Using inquiry-based learning to Ball State University investigate parasite transmission. 100 SE Lily Y. Gu, Kevin H. Wyatt, Allison R. Development and implementation of an active-learning teaching module Rober, Ball State University in environmental microbiology: using data exploration to decipher ecological interactions in aquatic ecosystems. 101 SE Jeremy T. Walls, Kevin H. Wyatt, and Exploring environmental controls on toxic algal blooms to promote Allison R. Rober, Ball State University problem solving and quantitative reasoning skills in STEM courses. 102 SE Daniel Elias and Allison R. Rober, Ball Exploring the consequences of pesticide applications on freshwater State University ecosystems using an active learning teaching module. 103 ZE Jinlong Han, Kedric Milrollanel, Tyler Accumulation and transmission of Soybean Vein Necrosis Virus by Shuman and Punya Nachappa, three thrips species. Indiana University- Purdue University Fort Wayne 104 ZE D. W. Cool & Luke M. Jacobus Biogeographic Affinities of Belize Mayflies (Insecta: Ephemeroptera). Indiana University- Purdue University Columbus 105 ZE T. Herbert, S. Schipper, J. Wells, Autumn Conservation status of Siphloplecton species in northern North America D.E. Fox & Luke M. Jacobus, Indiana (Insecta: Ephemeroptera: Metretopodidae). University- Purdue University Columbus PRESENTATIONS POSTER 106 ZE Tyler Ploss, Brody Deno, and Marc Milne, Eighteen new spider (Order: Araneae) distribution records from Indiana University of Indianapolis forests. 107 ZE Patrick R Selig, Kumud Joshi, Punya Engineering A Host Defense Regulatory Gene, PHYTOALEXIN Nachappa and Vamsi Nalam, Indiana DEFICIENT4 (PAD4) For Enhancing Resistance to Soybean Aphid. University- Purdue University Fort Wayne 108 ZE Nathan O'Leary, Andrew Ammons, Honey Bee Pheromones: Ethyl Oleate and Alcohol Sensitivity. Goshen College

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

POSTER PRESENTATIONS- 4:15 PM TO 5:55 PM

(NOTE: ODD NUMBERS PRESENT AT 4:15 PM- 5:00 PM; EVEN NUMBERS PRESENT 5:05 PM -5:55 PM)

109 ZE Elizabeth Wells and Marc Milne, University Illustrating some of the smallest spiders in the world: the erigonines. of Indianapolis 110 ZE Alejandro Genis & Andrew Ammons, Local Drifting Behavior of the Western Honey Bee (Apis mellifera). Goshen College

111 ZE A. K. Usher, Indiana University- Purdue Mayflies (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) of the Great Plains. V: Minnesota. University Indianapolis, J. M. Webb, Rhithron Associates, Inc., R. Edward

DeWalt, Illinois Natural History Survey, D. W. Cool, C. Burnett Brandenburg, and Luke M. Jacobus, Indiana University- Purdue University Columbus

112 ZE Hannah L Stewart, Brittany F. Peterson, Symbiotic Effects on Termite (Reticulitermes flavipes) Caste and Michael E. Scharf, Purdue University Differentiation.

113 ZE Kaitlin O’Bryan, Adelene Sublett, and Vibrational signals associated with mating behavior in the Randy Hunt, Indiana University Southeast leafhopper Graphocephala versuta.

114 ZE Amanda Khan, Abigail Helman, and The ultrastructure of the Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix (Southern Kevin Gribbins, University of Indianapolis Copperhead snake) spermatozoa.

115 ZE Marisa Teal Ketchum, University of Ultrastructural Analysis of Spermiogenesis in Clark’s Spiny Lizard, Indianapolis Sonal Baidwan, University of Sceloporus clarkii (Phrynosomatidae). Indianapolis, Justin Rheubert, University of Findlay, Kevin Gribbins, University of Indianapolis

116 ZE Sarah E. Meronk, Casey C. Day, Elizabeth Investigating the impact of invasive Asian carp on the North American A. Flaherty, and Patrick A. Zollner, Purdue river otter diet. University 117 ZE Ashley Prickel, Jordan Hartley, Kevin Preliminary microscopic analysis of the skin glands in the Northern Gribbins, University of Indianapolis Slimy Salamander, Plethodon glutinosus.

118 ZE Kathleen Paschal, BS; Helen Brandt, BA; Preliminary Study of the Microscopic Anatomy of the Venom Gland of and Kevin Gribbins University of the Mojave Green Rattlesnake, Crotalus scutulatus. Indianapolis. 119 ZE Brandon E. Phillips and Michael S. Thermal effects on the nonpolar lipid contents of late-term Chelydra Finkler, Indiana University Kokomo serpentina embryos.

POSTER PRESENTATIONS PRESENTATIONS POSTER 120 ZE Taylor Hatch, Jordyn Bever, Kevin Ultrastructure of Spermiogenesis within the Germinal Epithelium of the Gribbins, University of Indianapolis Red-Eared Slider, Trachemys sctripta elegans.

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Uwe Hansen, Physicist WORKSHOP: Hands-on Physics Horia Petrache, Indiana University-Purdue (High School Students and High School 300

University Indianapolis, Dept. of Teachers encouraged to attend)

9:20 9:20 AM

Physics, IUPUI Physics Students Darrin L. Rubino and Rachel E. Turner, Analysis of seasonal radial growth patterns of BO 302 Hanover College mixed Mespohytic forest Trees in southeastern Indiana. David Jantz, Brenner Burkholder, Optical Density Accurately Predicts Dry Mass CB 303 Nathanael Dick, Tessa Yoder, Aaron of Algae Produced in a Buoyant-Lift Kauffmann, David Slagel, Ryan Sensenig, Photobioreactor. and Stan Grove, Goshen College Aaron Graber, ByeonChan Lim, Hayley Combinatorial Synthesis of Candidate CH 304 Mann, Jacob Roth, Zachary Zimmerman, Antibiotics. Caleb Derstine, Deeksha Pagar, Doug Schirch, Goshen College Eric Hedin, Dept. of Physics & Wind Power Potential for Central Delaware ES 307 Astronomy, Ball State University County, IN. Julia Hoeh and Joy O’Keefe, Indiana Flight and Acoustic Behavior of Indiana Bats EC 308 State University Selecting Among Artificial Roost Types. Sylas Buller, Kathleen Hebble, and Avian seed dispersal of native and non-native EC 309

Laurie S. Eberhardt, Valparaiso University fruiting plants in a Northwest Indiana nature PRESENTATIONS preserve. Samuel Ozeh, A. G. Agwu Nnanna, Smart Phone-based Quantitative Detection of EQ

9:45 AM 9:45 Purdue University Calumet and Justus Trace Heavy Metal in Aqueous Media in Real 306 Ndukaife, Purdue University, Purdue time using HSV Color Space. University Calumet Nick Miller: Indiana University- Purdue Bdellovibrio bacteriovorous: The MB 305 University Indianapolis Hydrodynamic Hunter. Maxim Lyutikov, Department of Physics HOT TOPIC: Detection of Gravitational Waves PA 310 and Astronomy, Purdue University Donald G. Ruch, Kemuel S. Badger, A Floristic Survey of Holthouse Woods Nature PB 311 John E. Taylor, Megan E. Smith and Preserve in Wayne County, Indiana. Samantha Bell, Ball State University; and Paul E. Rothrock, Indiana University Sarah Fischer, Kamal Islam, Ball State Bird-window collisions on a university campus ZE 312 University in Indiana: comparing collision rates and

migration phenology. Della Collins Cook, and Cheryl A. A Young Man with Developmental Delays at AN 301

Munson, Indiana University the Murphy Site, 12Po1: Mortuary Practices and Social Roles in Late Prehistoric Indiana.

Rachel E. Turner and Darrin L. Rubino, Using Tree Rings to Date an Historically BO 302 Hanover College Erected Building in Fountain City, Indiana. Sarah M. Engle, Sheldon G. Watts, Justin Acetylation is not required for degradation of CB 303 J. Crowder, Sam Z. Coffey, Eric M. translocon-associated protein. Rubenstein, Ball State University R. Jeremy Johnson, Mackenzie Smith, Large scale structural rearrangement CH 304

10:00 AM 10:00 Whitney Hart, Perry Rabin provides dual control over the catalytic and Butler University membrane binding activity of a bacterial serine hydrolase.

GENERAL SCHEDULE OF ORAL ORAL OF SCHEDULE GENERAL

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY

PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Darrell G. Schulze, Purdue University The Integrating Spatial Educational ES 307 and the Isee Network Experiences (Isee) App. Joy M. O’Keefe, Indiana State University A unique, long-term effort to study an Indiana EC 308 bat maternity colony near the Indianapolis Airport.

Kevin Jewett and David LeBlanc, Ball Climate Effects on Radial Growth of Ash at EC 309 State University Lakeside Laboratory, Iowa.

Aubrey R. Bunch, U.S. Geological Loads of Nitrate, Total Phosphorus, and EQ 306 Survey Indiana-Kentucky Water Science Suspended Solids from Indana Watersheds. Center Sarah Hummel, Stephanie Konkle, An examination of the effect of red yeast rice MB 305 Heather A. Bruns, Philip Albiniak extract on macrophage functions.

10:00 AM 10:00 Ball State University Megan Crecelius, Don Ruch, Ahmed Floristic Inventory of Hayes Arboretum’s PB 311 Hubini, John Taylor and Kem Badger, Ball Constructed Wetlands and Associated State University Woodlands, Wayne County, Indiana. Claire E. Nemes, Clayton Delancey, and Breeding season microhabitat use by Cerulean ZE 312

PRESENTATIONS Kamal Islam, Ball State University Warblers (Setophaga cerulea) in southern

Indiana. Kristopher Aguirre, Christopher R. An analysis of a historic homestead in Floyd AN 301 Moore, University of Indianapolis, and County, Indiana. Rebecca Van Sessen, Indiana University Northwest Jordan M. Marshall, Indiana University- Characterization of an uncommon Northern BO 302 Purdue University Fort Wayne Indiana forest type: Hackberry-American Elm- Green Ash. Allyson Munneke, Sarah Olofsson, Julie Investigation of the Role of the G Protein- CB 303

Kolnik, Amy Godfrey, Jennifer Kowalski, Coupled Receptor FSHR-1 in Regulating Butler University Synaptic Transmission in C. elegans. Raheleh Ravanfar, Jenny Nguyen and Novel Synthesis of Lavendamycin Analogues CH 304 Robert E. Sammelson, Ball State and Related Quinoline-5,8-Diones. University William P. Gilhooly III, Christine Picard, Biogeochemistry of anoxic lakes in Northern ES 307 Shan Khan, Fotis Fouskas, and Broxton Indiana. Bird, and Horia Petrache, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 10:15 AM 10:15 Merrell A. Johnson, Indiana University- Purdue University Fort Wayne Robert J. Arndt and Steven L. Lima, Does Moonlight Affect the Movement and EC 308 Indiana State University Foraging Behavior of Bats in Indiana Flyways?

Toni Boger, Indiana University South Effect of native and non-native plantings in EC 309 Bend and Deborah Marr, Indiana urban parking islands on diversity and University South Bend abundance of birds, arthropods, and flower

visitors.

GENERAL SCHEDULE OF ORAL ORAL OF SCHEDULE GENERAL SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Tazin Fahmi and Ahmed Mustafa, Indiana Sea Urchin: Recent Advances in EQ 306 University- Purdue University Fort Wayne Aquaculture.

Chioniso Patience Masamha, Butler University, Discovery and characterization of a novel MB 305

Todd A. Albrecht and Eric J. Wagner, University of miRNA recalcitrant CCND1/MRCK fusion Texas gene in Mantle Cell Lymphoma.

Ahmed Hubini, Don Ruch, Megan Crecelius, John Floristic Inventory of the Cooper Woods -- PB 311 Taylor and Kem Badger, Ball State University Skinner Woods Complex, Delaware County, Indiana. Ardith Wang, Obed Hernandez-Gomez, Rod N. Assessing microbiome of historic and ZE 312 Williams, Purdue University current river habitats for Eastern 10:15 AM 10:15 Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) in Southern

Indiana. Harrison Funke and Christopher Moore, University Archaeological Analysis on Harrington AN 301 of Indianapolis Cabin Site, Floyd County Indiana. Jennifer Robison, , Manami Saito, ,Stephen Domestic (Glycine max) and Non- BO 302 Randall, Indiana University- Purdue University domesticated (Glycine soja) Soybean are Indianapolis Capable of Cold Acclimation. Kyle Cherry, Amy Godfrey, Jennifer Kowalski, Investigation of the localization and CB 303 Butler University expression of the G-protein coupled receptor FSHR-1 in C. elegans neurons. Geoffrey C. Hoops, Benjamin Lancaster, R. Transition metal cation inhibition of CH 304

Jeremy Johnson, Butler University the Mycobacterium tuberculosis esterase PRESENTATIONS Rv0045c. H. Hurst, and S. A. Isiorho, Indiana University- Best Management Practices and Soil ES 307 Purdue University Fort Wayne Water Quality: Adams County, Indiana. Timothy Divoll and Joy O’Keefe, Indiana State Foraging Habits and Space Use of EC 308 University Endangered Bats at the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment.

AM Heather L. Reynolds and Carli Gurholt Plant-soil feedback not a driver of EC 309 Indiana University Bloomington competitive dynamics among two invasive and one native groundcover species of 30 eastern deciduous forest. Joshua Anger and Gretchen Kirchner, Indiana Examining the alkaline protease activity of MB 305 University Southeast the unique species Halobacillus. Sp. 10: BBL2006. Patrick Kelley, Tony Lee, Indiana University- Wigner Functions of Linear, Nonlinear, PA 310 Purdue University Indianapolis and Purely Non-Hermitian Dissipative Cavities. Uwe Hansen, Professor Emeritus-Physics, Indiana HOT TOPIC: “In the footsteps of PA State University; Adjunct Professor of Physics, Stradivarius” 21st Century Mode Studies of 306 University of Indianapolis and Rose Hulman Institute of Modern Bowed String Instruments Technology Scott Namestnik, Orbis Environmental Consulting, Flora of Steele Prairie State Preserve, PB 311 and Mary Damm, Orbis Environmental Consulting, Cherokee County, Iowa. Marianna Zamlauski-Tucker, Cameron Behringer Changes in Malondialdehyde (MDA) ZE 312 and Natalya Mezenina, Ball State University Levels with Age in the Nucleus, Cytosol and Mitochondria from Rat Kidney Cortex

and Medulla.

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY GI General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy ORAL OF SCHEDULE GENERAL AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Sarah E. Fann, Christopher W. Schmidt. Indiana Mastodon Extinction in the Context of AN 301 Prehistory Laboratory, University of Indianapolis. Dental Macrowear. Katie M. Beverley, Colton L. Starcher, Amanda S. Significant adjuvant augmentation of the CB 303 Khan, Brandy Ploetner, and Dean A. Wiseman, anti-cancer effects of 5-Fluorouracil and Shaheen College of Arts & Sciences, University of Gemcitabine in human ductal pancreatic Indianapolis adenocarcinoma cells with the antibiotic ciprofloxaxin. James Mendez - Indiana Univeristy Purdue Using 3D Printing to Make Custom CH 304 University Columbus Models for Introductory Chemistry

Courses (Chemistry Education Presentation). Martin Kaufman, Department of Earth Science, HOT TOPIC: GIS Identification of Lead ES 307 University of Michigan – Flint, Michigan Service Pipes in Flint, Michigan Dan Smith, Goshen College, Jacob Swartley, Domestic Pigeons: The Dilution Series. MB 305 Goshen College, Stuart Kurtz, Goshen College Alan A. Gavel II, Robert C. Berrington, Ball State Eclipsing Binary Stars from the All Sky PA 310 University Automated Survey and Northern Sky

10:45 AM 10:45 Variability Survey. Michael A. Homoya, Indiana Department of Natural A Lost Grassland – The Historic PB 311 Resources, Division of Nature Preserves, Occurrence of Canebrakes in the Lower Indianapolis, IN Ohio Valley of Indiana. Kent Edmonds, Indiana University Southeast Effects of Environmental Enrichment on ZE 312 1) Photostimulated and 2) Spontaneous Ovarian Recrudescence in the Adult Female Marsh Rice Rat (Oryzomys palustris). Rebecca M. Barzilai, Indiana University Preliminary Implications of Ceramic AN 301 Compositional Data from Analyses of Pottery from the Mississippian Emerald Site.

Allison Hutt, Chantel Shores, Nantikan Becker, Effects of heterospecific pollination on BO 302

Ridwan Jojo, Derek Benson, and Andrew Schnabel, stylar curvature, seed set, and fruit Indiana University South Bend production in Hibiscus aponeurus and H.

flavifolius from Laikipia, Kenya. AM

Stephanie Raynor, R. Jeremey Johnson, Geoffrey Measuring kinetics and substrate CH 304 C. Hoops, Butler University specificity of the mycobacterial esterase LipN employing latent fluorophore substrates. Rebekah A. Lumkes, Sarah Meronk, Natalie Euler, Influence of Northern River Otter Latrine EC 308

11:00 Casey C. Day, and Patrick A. Zollner, Purdue Sites Upon Carnivore Activity and University Species Richness. Adam R. Warrix, Indiana University- Purdue The use of soil transfer with a native EC 309 University Fort Wayne, Betsy Yankowiak, Little River seed bank to control invasive plant Wetlands Projects, and Jordan M. Marshall, Indiana species.

University - Purdue University Fort Wayne

GENERAL SCHEDULE OF ORAL PRESENTATIONS PRESENTATIONS ORAL OF SCHEDULE GENERAL SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY GI General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Hisako Masuda, Naoki Awano and Masayori ydfD Encodes a Novel Lytic Protein MB 305 Inouye, Indiana University Kokomo, Rutgers-Robert in Escherichia coli. Wood Johnson Medical Center Mohammed Al Juboori, Hossein Jashnsaz, Tyler A Hydrodynamic Hunter. PA 310 Nguyen, Stephanie Perkins, Nick Miller, Viktoria

Meyerhoff, Bryan McCoy, Gregory Anderson, Bruce AM

Ray, and Steve Pressé, Indiana University- Purdue University Indianapolis. Scott A. Namestnik, Orbis Environmental The First Documented Record PB 311 Consulting of Equisetum sylvaticum L. [Equisetaceae] in Indiana.

11:00 Gene Kritsky, Mount St. Joseph University The Tears of Re: Beekeeping in Ancient ZE 303 Egypt. HOT TOPIC Book Signing will take place at 4:00

today in the Poster Area Noah Cutshaw, and Dan Hammond, Taylor Immunochemiluminescence Detection of CH 304 University Chicken Muscle Lactate Dehydrogenase Using a Digital SLR Camera. Sabrina Schuler, Renee Wickliffe, Sarah Meronk, Evaluating seasonal and geographic diet EC 308 Casey Day, Patrick Zollner, Purdue University variation in North American river otters (Lontra canadensis) in Indiana. Jared L. Scott and Elizabeth E. Rueschhoff, Investigating Vitamin B6 Content in EC 309 Indiana University Southeast Natural Plant Communities.

John M. Dunn, Hanover College, Stephanie L. Effects of pax2a mutations on MB 305 Lerach, University of Minnesota, Stacy L. Solin, craniofacial development in zebrafish. Iowa State University, Ames, IA Maura McGrail, Iowa State University, Lisa A. Schimmenti, University of Minnesota, Pamela R. Pretorius, Hanover College, Patrick M Motl, Indiana University Kokomo Are R Corona Borealis Stars the PA 310 Remnants of Double White Dwarf 11:15 AM 11:15 Mergers? Rebecca W. Dolan, Butler University Invasive plants in Indianapolis: History PB 311 and current status. Lindsay N. Beasley -, Evie K. Sehr, Kurtis W. When can embryos learn? A test of the ZE 312 Wilson - and Brian G. Gall, Hanover College timing of learning in embryonic amphibians. Joel Vanderbush HOT TOPIC: The Need for Nature ZE 302 ANIMALIA, INC

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY GI General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy

AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity GENERAL SCHEDULE OF ORAL PRESENTATIONS ORAL OF SCHEDULE GENERAL BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Emil F. Khisamutdinov and Seth G. Abels, Ball In-silico Design and Experimental CH 304 State University Validation of Boolean Logic Gates Based on Fluorogenic RNA Aptamer. Sarah A. Abercrombie, Jacob L. Berl, Elizabeth Seasonal Foraging by Forest Mice EC 308 A. Flaherty, and Robert K. Swihart, Purdue Enhances Loss of Weed Seeds from University Crop Field Edges. Michael Garvey, Purdue University; Curtis Immunotheraputic effects of plant EC 309 Creighton, Purdue University Calumet, Ian Kaplan, chemistry as a mediator of host-parasite Purdue University interactions in Manduca sexta. Terry West and Darryl Granger, Purdue University Radiocarbon Date of Base of Gravel EN 301

Sluiceway, Wea Creek Plain, Near Lafayette, Tippecanoe, Indiana. Yongsheng Bai, Jeff Kinne , Aaron Cox, Feng Fast identification of genome-wide non- MB 305 Jiang, Justin R. Hassler, Randal J. Kaufman, canonical spliced regions, Indiana State University, Sanford-Burnham-Prebys including IRE1α targeted regions with Medical Discovery Institute Read-Split-Fly algorithm. Uwe J. Hansen, Indiana State University, Finite Element Calculations in the PA 310 University of Indianapolis and Rose-Hulman Physics Classroom. Institute of Technology

11:30 AM 11:30 Sara Tabner, Justin Ivers, Pierre N'Guetta, Phylogenetic Utility of Low-Copy Nuclear PB 311 Kathryn Riley, and Andrew Schnabel, Indiana Genes for Resolving Relationships University South Bend Within Gleditsia (Leguminosae) and Genera of the Umtiza Clade. Md Mursalin Khan, Elliott Blumenthal, and Lymphocyte Proliferation of Nile tilapia ZE 312 Ahmed Mustafa, Indiana University-Purdue Using Elderberry Extract. University Fort Wayne Jennifer S Holt, Benjamin Averill, Thomas Understanding the Behavior of Brooker's CH 304 Dabertin, Erica Gilbert, Carly Hanson, Kelsey Merocyanine in Host-Guest Complexes. Larson, Miroslava Repak, Charles Sayger, Valparaiso University Maggie A. Wigren and Catherine Searle, Purdue The effects of food availability on the EC 308 University reproduction and disease susceptibility of Daphnia dentifera and Daphnia lumholtzi. Robert Brodman, Payton Kellenburger, and The Effects of Cover Crop on EC 309 Hanna Van Meter, Saint Joseph’s College, Amphibians. Mason Boles, Ranjith Wijesinghe, Ball State Application of Complex Functions to the PA 310

11:45 AM 11:45 University, Richard Stankewitz, Ball State Electric field in 2-D. University Md Ibrahim and Ahmed Mustafa, Indiana Future of Aquaculture: Re-circulatory ZE 312 University- Purdue University Fort Wayne System or Aquaponics Systems?

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY GI General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education

CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology GENERAL SCHEDULE OF ORAL PRESENTATIONS PRESENTATIONS ORAL OF SCHEDULE GENERAL CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Pam Pontones and Jen Brown, HOT TOPIC: 24 Hours Away: Emerging 302 Indiana State Department of Health Infectious Diseases and our Global World Alfredo Lopez-Yunez, Alivio Medical Center; HOT TOPIC: Neuroscience of Decision 306

Neurohealth, Making: What factors influence the decision Indiana making process in the brain? Jessica Wyndham WORKSHOP: Integrating Human Rights 301 American Association for the Advancement of Science into your Teaching and Learning (AAAS) (Open to Everyone. College Professors and Science Teachers encouraged to attend.) Patrice Bouyer, Valparaiso University and the Knocking down inositol-1,4,5- CB 303 University of Chicago trisphosphate (IP3) receptors binding protein released with IP3 (IRBIT) increases intestinal barrier permeability and decreases chloride secretion in the human colonic crypt cells T84.

Daniel Headley, Mahamud Subir, Ball State Surface Properties of p-Nitrophenol CH University and p-Nitrophenolate at the air-water 304 interface as Investigated by Second Harmonic Generation Spectroscopy. S. A. Isiorho, P.W. O’Malley, D. Deifenbaugh, C. When Field research does not work: The ES 307 Pendrick, D. Cole, H. Hurst, R. Yeater, H. Simpson Hydrogeology weekend field trip. and M. Kalakay, Indiana University- Purdue University Fort Wayne

2:15PM Clayton D. Delancey, Claire E. Nemes, and Kamal Radio-tagging and tracking of Cerulean EC 308 Islam, Ball State University Warblers (Setophaga cerulea) in southern Indiana. Andrew Stoehr, Butler University Multiple and sometimes interacting EC 309 factors influence complex plastic phenotypes in the cabbage white butterfly. Stuart Kurtz, Goshen College, Nhu-Thinh Nguyen, Pigmentation Genetics of Domestic MB 305 University of Texas at Arlington, Texas, Dan Smith, Pigeons: Pink-Eyed Dilute. Goshen College, John Fondon III, University of Texas at Arlington, Texas Robert C. Berrington, Thomas Jordan, Alan The Ball State University Short-Period PA 310 Gavel, Michael Holcomb, Jon Van de Water, Erin Variable Star Program. Tuhey, Ball State University Eric B. Knox, Indiana University Bloomington The Cosmopolitan Radiation PB 311 of Lobelia (Lobeliaceae).

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY

GI General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy PRESENTATIONS ORAL OF SCHEDULE GENERAL AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Richard Manalis, Goshen College and Jessica Contractile measurements from frog (rana ZE 312 Davila, Goshen College pipiens) gastrocnemius muscle used for the first time to study short-term synaptic plasticity. Shaad M. Ahmad, Indiana State University, Two Forkhead transcription factors CB 303 Stephen S. Gisselbrecht, Brigham and Women’s regulate cardiac progenitor specification by Hospital, Pritha Bhattacharyya, Neal Jeffries, and controlling the expression of receptors of Alan M. Michelson, National Institutes of Health the fibroblast growth factor and Wnt signaling pathways.

A J C L Hogarth, Ohio Dominican University Repurposing Obsolete or Underutilised CH 304 Equipment in the General Chemistry Laboratory: Photometric Titrimetry.

P. W. O'Malley, & S. A. Isiorho, Indiana University- Changing channel morphology of the ES 307 Purdue University Fort Wayne Maumee River in eastern Allen County,

Indiana. PM

James Bandoli, Dept. of Biology, University of Filial Cannibalism in Spottail Darters EC 308 Southern Indiana Includes the Targeted Removal of Infected

Eggs. 30 Jeffrey D. Holland, Ashley L. Kissick, Purdue Novel Functional Diversity Traits of Insect EC 309

2: University Communities. Callum Walker, Heather Bruns, Susan McDowell, Inhibition of host Rho GTPase CDC42 MB 305 Ball State University decreases intracellular Salmonella Typhimurium populations and alters macrophage surface protein expression. Stevie Bastin, Tony Lee, Indiana University- Ion crystals in anharmonic traps. PA 310 Purdue University Indianapolis David Aronson, Robert Reber, Taylor University; Impacts of Grass-specific Herbicide PB 311 Adam Thada, Cardno, Inc.; Paul Rothrock, Indiana Application and Burning on the University Establishment of Interseeded Forbs in a Tallgrass Prairie Restoration – The Third Growing Season. Zachery T. Laughlin and Thomas A. Sobat, Ivy The effects of forest fragmentation: ZE 312 Tech Community College Columbus Establishment of perimeter communities in temperate deciduous forests.

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY GI General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy

AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity GENERAL SCHEDULE OF ORAL PRESENTATIONS PRESENTATIONS ORAL OF SCHEDULE GENERAL BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Avery M. Sampson, Carter Herndon, Larry Fromm, Role of the gene regulatory protein SRF in CB 303 Ball State University activation of the muscle spindle-specifying gene Egr3. Joshua Smith, Colby Adolph, Tristan Maxson, Photocatalytic Synthesis of β-Cabroline CH 304 Jake Werth, Christopher Uyeda, and Tykhon Derivatives: Effect of the Preparation of Zubkov, Ball State University and Purdue University Platinized Titanium Dioxide Catalysts. Diane K. Baclawski, Michigan State University Fort Wayne's Legendary Geologist: Frank ES 307 (retired) Bursley Taylor, His Early Years, 1860- 1900. E. Anders Kiledal and Anthony L. Swinehart, The Potential Role of Hypolimnetic Gases, EC 308 Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, MI Temperature, and Hydrostatic Pressure on the Mortality and Taphonomy of Freshwater Fishes. Ashley L. Kissick and Jeffrey D. Holland, Purdue Stability mechanisms in beetle functional EC 309

PM University groups. Jacob J. Kinnun, Indiana University-Purdue Raft Busters: A Molecular Role for DHA in MB 305 University Indianapolis, Justin A. Williams, Indiana Biological Membranes? 45 University-Purdue University Indianapolis, William Stillwell, Indiana University-Purdue University

2: Indianapolis, Robert Bittman, Queens College of CUNY, Saame Raza Shaikh, East Carolina University, and Stephen R. Wassall, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis Jon Van de Water, Robert Berrington, Ball State Modeling of Select Short Period Eclipsing PA 310 University Binary Stars in the Southern Hemisphere. Paul Rothrock, and Eric Knox, Indiana University Curating IU’s Deam Herbarium: Hair PB 311 Raising or Hair Splitting? Glene Mynhardt, Emily Lessig, Darrin Rubino, Diversity in decay: Study of xylophagous ZE 312 Hanover College and saprophagous beetles (Insecta: Coleoptera) infesting decaying wood in southeastern Indiana. Michael Watters, Alexander Mehreteab, Alex Fungal Bioremediation of Solid Waste. BO Zapata, Elizabeth Phillippi, Blair Mitchell, Jacob 302 Yablonowski, Daniel Zimmerman, Victor Manzanilla, Laura Knuth and Jonathan Schoer, Valparaiso University

Amber Kline, JoAnne Babula, Jennifer Kowalski, Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) rescues CB 303 Butler University neuromuscular defects associated with expression of the mammalian Down

PM Syndrome critical gene Dyrk1a in C. elegans motor neurons. Caleb C. Culy and Philip A. Albiniak, Exploring the reactivity of oxypyridinium CH 304

Ball State University salt derivatives with oxygen nucleophiles. Garre A. Conner: Pangea Geoservices, Evansville, The Mitchell Aquifer and karst ES 307 3:00 Indiana, groundwater drainage in the Mississippian Blue River Group (Visean) in South- Central Indiana. Dominique D. Turney, Patrick A. Zollner, Benjamin Using Capture-Recapture Models to EC 308 M. Gramig, Charles R. Roswell, Benjamin D. Estimate Angler Abundance in Southern Dickinson and Mitchell T. Zischke Lake Michigan.

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY

PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Thomas A Sobat, Ivy Tech Community College Undergraduate research at Ivy Tech EC 309 Columbus Community College Columbus: The

Forest Ecology Project. (Ecology

Education Presentation). Montana Campbell, Steven J.A.Kimble, and Rod Assessing Mitochondrial Population MB 305 N.Williams, Department of Forestry and Natural Genetics of the Eastern Box Turtle, PM Resources, Purdue University Terrapene c. Carolina in Indiana. Antonio C. Cancio and Jeremy Redd, Ball State Scaling properties of the kinetic energy PA 310 University density of atoms -- towards an orbital-free description. Ellen Jacquart, The Nature Conservancy, Indiana HOT TOPIC: The New Invasive Plant PB 311 3:00 Field Office Threats to Indiana-What to Watch For Michael B. Roberts and Randy Hunt, Indiana Amplitude Plasticity in Mating Duets of ZE 312 University Southeast Male Erythroneura Leafhoppers During Mate Finding. Randall Roper, Department of Biology, Indiana HOT TOPIC: Looking Up with Down 305 University-Purdue University Indianapolis Syndrome: Current Research Indicates Signficant Possibilities to Improve Traits Associated with Trisomy 21 Larry Leverenz, Eric Nauman, Thomas Talvage, HOT TOPIC: Heads Up: Concussion in 303 Purdue Neurotrama Group Contact Sports

Michael Watters, Jacob Yablonowski, Tayler ROS control mutants and added BO 302 Grashel and Hamzah Abduljabar, Valparaiso antioxidants induce hypobranching in University Neurospora crassa. James O. Farlow, Nathan J. Robinson, Frank V. Trackways of the American Crocodile, ES 307 Paladino, Indiana-Purdue University Fort Wayne, Northwestern Costa Rica: Implications for Peter L. Falkingham, Liverpool John Moores Crocodylian Ichnology. University and Anthony J. Martin, Emory University Paige Weldy, Erin Kenison, and Rod Williams, Assessing predator detection and EC 308 Purdue University avoidance behavior of rusty crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) in the presence of hellbenders (Cryptobranchus

3:15PM allegeniensis) and smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu). Kemuel Badger, John Taylor, Don Ruch, Ahmed A Decade of Change in Cooper Woods, a EC 309 Hubini and Megan Crecelius. Ball State University Central Indiana Till-Plain Flatwoods. Le Luo, Jiaming Li, Ji Liu, Leonardo deMelo, Xin Three-body recombination in a strongly PA 310 Chin interacting Fermi gas. Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis Randy E. Hunt, Indiana University Southeast The advantage of calling second: ZE 312 Influence of vibrational masking on male mating success in the

leafhopper Macropsis fumipennis.

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY GENERAL SCHEDULE OF ORAL PRESENTATIONS PRESENTATIONS ORAL OF SCHEDULE GENERAL GI General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics PS Psychology

2016 Indiana Academy of Science Annual Meeting | Final Program

TIME AUTHOR(S) PRESENTATION SEC RM#

Pam Pontones and Jen Brown, HOT TOPIC: 24 Hours Away: Emerging 306 Indiana State Department of Health Infectious Diseases and our Global World Scott T. Bates, Justin S. Golday, Rachel L. Toward a checklist of Indiana fungi. BO 302 Kunnen, and Nathanael J. Pilla, Purdue University

Hossein Farsi, University of Birjand, Ball State Preparation, characterization and CH 304 University, Shokufeh Moghiminia, University of investigations of nanostructured cobalt Birjand, Fariba Madizadeh, University of Birjand,and titanate prepared by a modified sol-gel Zhihai Li Ball State University method. Michelle Spaulding, Purdue University North CT-imaging and virtual endocast ES 307 Central reconstruction in Carnivoramorpha (Mammalia). Eric Stadig, Indiana University-Purdue University Optimizing Trap Design for Capture of EC 308 Fort Wayne, Stephen Hensler, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Amphipods in Western Lake Erie. Service, Robert Gillespie and William DeMott, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne 3:30PM Carly Hubbard & Anthony L. Swinehart, Hillsdale Re-examination of an 80-year-old peat EC 309 College, Hillsdale, Michigan core from Bacon’s Swamp reveals new understanding of the natural history of Indiana’s southernmost Sphagnum bog. Guillermo Gonzalez, Assistant Professor, Department HOT TOPIC: What’s New with Pluto? PA 310 of Physics and Astronomy, Ball State University Lindsay N. Beasley, Hanover College, Pamela R. Genetic identification of forensically- ZE 312 Pretorius, Hanover College, and Glené Mynhardt, important dermestid beetles (Coleoptera: Hanover College Dermestidae). Tyler A. Williams, Jenny Lee, Cory A. Diemler, and Investigation of Magnetic Particles as a CH 304

Mahamud Subir, Ball State University Remediation Tool for Organic Dyes in the Presence of Colloidal Aggregation. Nicole Chodkowski and Randall J. Bernot, Ball Parasite Effects on Freshwater EC 308 State University snail, Elimia livescens Elemental Content and Metabolism. Blake T. Moskal, and Sean T. Berthrong, Butler Soil Health within Indianapolis Urban EC 309 University Gardens. Kristi Bugajski and Beth Scaglione-Sewell Diurnal oviposition timing of blow flies and ZE 312 3:45PM Valparaiso University DNA identification of early arrivers.

SECTION ABBREVIATION KEY GI General Interest EC Ecology PA Physics/Astronomy AN Anthropology EN Engineering PB Plant Systematics & Biodiversity PRESENTATIONS ORAL OF SCHEDULE GENERAL BO Botany EQ Environmental Quality SE Science Education CB Cell Biology ES Earth Science ZE Zoology/Entomology CH Chemistry MB Micro/Molecular Biology MA Mathematics

PS Psychology

Abstracts from the 131st Annual Academy Meeting

March 26, 2016 Page #

Anthropology 2 Botany 4 Cell Biology 7 Chemistry 18 Earth Science 51 Ecology 27 Engineering 47 Entomology 41 Environmental Quality 47 Micro and Molecular Biology 58 Physics and Astronomy 71 Plant Systematics and Diversity 76 Psychology 81 Science Education 81 Zoology 83

Anthropology

Tertiary Transfer of DNA by Examination Gloves between Evidentiary Items at Crime Scenes. (Poster) 1Marisa Teal Ketchum, 1Erin Vollmer, 1Jenna Carnes, 1Krista E. Latham, 1,2Cynthia Cale, 2Gay Bush, University of Indianapolis. 1University of Indianapolis 2Strand Analytical Laboratories, Indianapolis IN

As technology within the criminal justice system advances and more efficient methods of DNA analyses are developed, smaller quantities of DNA can be successfully detected. However, as the quantity of DNA required for analysis in criminal investigations decreases, the risk of sample contamination increases. Protocols for evidence collection in the field vary between crime laboratories and personnel. Potential exists for technicians to inadvertently transfer DNA between items being collected through their gloves. This pilot study investigates the possibility of transferring DNA between evidentiary items and evaluates if the quantity detected could complicate DNA profile interpretation. A sterile cup was handled by ungloved hands (tier 1). A technician wearing sterile gloves handled this item. The technician then handled a second sterile cup (tier 2), followed by a third cup (tier 3) without changing gloves. All cups were swabbed for DNA. This procedure was repeated a total of seven times with the technician changing gloves between each test. DNA extraction was conducted using the QIAGEN QIAamp DNA Mini Kit. The purified DNA was then quantified and amplified to generate a DNA profile. Primary transfer DNA was detected on all tier 1 samples. DNA transferred to tier 2 samples by the technician’s gloves occurred in 42% of the tests. Partial profiles belonging to the handler were detected in those samples that were amplified. The results demonstrate that although tertiary transfer did not occur in every trial, there is the potential for the cross-contamination of evidentiary items via examination gloves. This should warrant caution during the handling of evidence due to the possibility of transferring an individual’s DNA to an item not actually touched by that person. Crime laboratories and personnel should implement procedures to negate this possible route of contamination.

A Comparison of Primary Transfer Touch DNA from Different Regions of the Body. (Poster) Helen M. Brandt, BA; Kathleen L. Paschal, BS; Amanda S. Khan, BA; Brooke E. Meyer; Justin Maiers, BS; Krista E. Latham, University of Indianapolis, Molecular Anthropology Laboratory; Cynthia Cale, BS, Strand Analytical Laboratories and University of Indianapolis; Gay Bush, PhD, Strand Analytical Laboratories

This study investigates variation in the quantity of touch DNA obtained from different areas of the body to demonstrate the importance of testing all possible evidentiary items during forensic casework. The amount of touch DNA obtained from different regions of the body may be dependent on the type of skin, the concentration of sweat glands, or the amount of mechanical stress that region regularly experiences, among other things. This study addresses the hypotheses that different quantities of DNA will be obtained from different regions of the body and that the greatest quantity of touch DNA will come from the hands and feet. Samples were collected from five regions of the body from six individuals: hand, foot, forehead, ankle and wrist. The DNA was purified from the samples and quantified. Amounts of DNA recovered from each region of the body were compared to determine which body region yielded the highest quantities of DNA. The results indicate variation in the amount of touch DNA obtained from different regions of the body within individuals, between individuals, and between body regions. However, there was no discernable pattern. Therefore, the first hypothesis was supported, in that different quantities of DNA were obtained from different regions of the body. The second hypothesis, that the most touch DNA will be obtained from the hands and feet, was rejected. The hands and feet produced less transfer DNA than other regions of the body, with the highest mean amount of DNA being obtained from the forehead. In conclusion, the data presented in this study challenges the notion that the highest quantities of touch DNA are obtained from the hands and feet, and suggests items that come in contact with other body regions should be sampled for touch DNA.

A Young Man with Developmental Delays at the Murphy Site, 12Po1: Mortuary Practices and Social Roles in Late Prehistoric Indiana. Della Collins Cook, Indiana University, and Cheryl A. Munson, Indiana University

An adolescent male from the Late Prehistoric Murphy Site in southern Indiana, 12Po1-1, exhibits massive clinoid bridges associated with small regions of premature suture closure. Dental and skeletal development are discrepant: the third molar roots are nearly fully formed, whereas the sphenoccipital synchondrosis is open, and epiphyseal fusion is consistent with a much younger age. Several syndrome diagnoses are plausible. Bird bone beads associated with this burial may suggest that this young man was still considered a child, suggesting that there may have been physical or cognitive deficits.

An analysis of a historic homestead in Floyd County, Indiana. Kristopher Aguirre, Christopher R. Moore, University of Indianapolis, Rebecca Van Sessen Indiana University Northwest

The project is a joint endeavor between the University of Indianapolis and the Floyd County community. This particular site, 12FL-152, is a 19th century homestead located within Greenville Township, Floyd County, Indiana. Phase I survey was conducted in the summer of 2015, and laboratory analysis began in the field and finished. The site assemblage consist most of historic artifacts with a few pre-historic flakes and debitage. The CTJ farm site (12FL152) is a 19th century farmstead located within Greenville Township, Floyd County, Indiana. The site, located near the historic Buffalo Trace, was surveyed as part of the University of Indianapolis’s summer 2015 archaeological field school. The survey, funded by an Indiana-DNR Historic Preservation Fund grant, is a joint endeavor between the University of Indianapolis and the Floyd County community. Phase I survey and laboratory analysis of the materials from the CTJ farm site indicate the presence of intact, well-preserved deposits associated with the site’s 200 year history. In this paper we will describe the history of the CTJ farm, our survey, and the artifacts recovered.

Archaeological Analysis on Harrington Cabin Site, Floyd County Indiana. Harrison Funke and Christopher Moore, University of Indianapolis

The Harrington Cabin site, or 12FL190, lies in the northeastern corner of Floyd County, Indiana on farmland now owned by Michael and Molly Harrington. Survey data and archival research indicate the cabin stood from the 1930s to the late 1950s. Throughout the 19th century the property was owned by the Renn family, after whom the road adjacent to the site was named. In this presentation I will provide a detailed history of the Harrington Cabin site and fully describe the artifacts recovered during the summer 2015 University of Indianapolis archaeological survey of the property.

Mastodon Extinction in the Context of Dental Macrowear Sarah E. Fann, Christopher W. Schmidt. Indiana Prehistory Laboratory, University of Indianapolis

The extinction of the American mastodon (Mammut americanum) is thought to have been caused by dramatic climate changes or human overhunting. The purpose of this study was to determine if mastodon diets, as indicated by dental macrowear, differed for those predating the last glacial maximum (~30,000-40,000 y.a.) and those who died near the end of the Pleistocene (~12,000-15,000 y.a.). We hypothesized that dietary stress would have led to the consumption of less nutritious foods that generated greater macrowear. We studied a total of 67 animals from Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana. We generated wear scores (that ranged between 1 and 10) using a ranked system based upon loph wear and dentin exposure and measured buccal and lingual lophs separately. Age was controlled for by including only lower M2s and the first two lophs of the M3s. We calculated buccal, lingual, and lingual/buccal macrowear score means and compared them via ANOVA, controlling for site and antiquity. The results indicate there were no significant differences in molar macrowear (i.e., we failed to reject our null hypotheses). These findings may shed light on humankind’s role in the extinction of the mastodon. Preliminary Implications of Ceramic Compositional Data from Analyses of Pottery from the Mississippian Emerald Site Rebecca M. Barzilai, Indiana University

A constructed Mississippian mound center where everyday practices were entangled with the performance of Mississippian religion, the Emerald Site in Lebanon, Illinois has a high density of non-domestic structures dating to the Edelhardt and Lohmann Phases (1000-1100 CE) and ceramic types indicative of diverse peoples from throughout the Midwest. Associated with the rise of the Native American City of Cahokia circa 1050 CE, the ceramic styles found at the Emerald Site indicate peoples from throughout the Midcontinent of North America traveling to the site and participating in ritual and religious activities. This presentation will present preliminary data from recent petrographic and geochemical testing of ceramics from the Emerald Site funded by and Indiana Academy of Science Grant and descriptions of clay and compositional groups of source clays will elucidate the ways in which Late Woodland and Mississippian peoples from Illinois, Indiana, and further afield, were engaging with each other at the Emerald Site.

Botany

Analysis of seasonal radial growth patterns of mixed mespohytic forest trees in southeastern Indiana. Darrin L. Rubino and Rachel E. Turner, Hanover College

Inter-annual analysis of radial (secondary) growth is commonly performed using tree-ring analysis. Though such techniques are very powerful in elucidating long-term changes in growth patterns, they provide little to no information on the growth behavior of trees during a single growing season. The goal of this investigation was to characterize the seasonal radial growth patterns of several tree species common to the western mesophytic forests of southeastern Indiana. To study seasonal growth patterns, we used dendrometer bands, tight-fitting metal bands that permit measurement of radial growth of woody stems on a short-term (daily, weekly, monthly) basis. A total of 175 and 173 bands were monitored during 2014 and 2015, respectively; twenty different taxa of trees were banded. Analysis focused on the 5 most commonly encountered taxa in the forest: sugar maple, tulip poplar, ash (green and white), and basswood. For each taxon, growth followed an expected sigmoidal pattern with the greatest and most rapid growth occurring in June and July. Ash exhibited earlier growth initiation (late April and mid-April in 2014 and 2015, respectively) in comparison to the other species (mid- to late May in both 2014 and 2015). Beech grew at a slower rate than the other species. Variation in growth rate and in initiation and cessation of growth were observed both within and among the different taxa. Differences were also noted between the 2014 and 2015 growing seasons. The dendrometer bands will be monitored indefinitely to further assess intra- and inter-annual growth patterns.

Using Tree Rings to Date an Historically Erected Building in Fountain City, Indiana. Rachel E. Turner and Darrin L. Rubino, Hanover College

Tree rings are an effective way to date the construction of historic buildings. Our goal was to determine the construction date of a nineteenth century building from Fountain City, Indiana. Using standard tree-ring procedures, we obtained 119 samples from 7 timber species. The samples were prepared for analysis by using progressively finer grits of sandpaper until individual rings were visible. The samples were then measured to the nearest 0.01 mm at 45X magnification. Calendar dates were assigned to each ring through crossdating (method of comparing tree-ring growth patterns in timbers of known age to those of unknown age). We successfully dated 3 sycamore, 16 ash, 63 tulip poplar, 14 white elm, 5 white oak, 9 beech, and 9 white pine timbers. We created a chronology (a series of accurately measured and dated tree rings) spanning from 1523 to 1849. We hypothesize that the federal style house was built in 1837 since nearly all of the samples show a death date of 1836 or 1837. We also hypothesize a later modification of the structure occurred in the mid to late 1800s since several timbers (of unknown death date) had rings formed later than 1837. With the sample data collected from this project we were able to enhance our tree-ring network of the region.

Characterization of an uncommon Northern Indiana forest type: Hackberry-American Elm-Green Ash. Jordan M. Marshall, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Urban and suburban development in the Midwest region, combined with continued agricultural land uses, has resulted in fragmented and isolated forest patches. These forests have intrinsic value as plant and wildlife habitat, as well as extrinsic value improving land value and human health. Moser Park is an urban forest property in Allen County, Indiana, managed by New Haven Parks and Recreation. We conducted a plant survey within the forested section of the park, identifying and quantifying abundance of understory, midstory, and overstory plants. We calculated species richness and Shannon’s index for all three strata and tested for relationships with environmental variables (i.e. canopy cover, soil compaction, litter depth, and light availability). The majority of understory species are typically associated with disturbed habitats, with very little resemblance to natural, pre-settlement habitat (i.e. low coefficient of conservation values). Understory cover was dominated by Rubus allegheniensis. Midstory stratum was less diverse than the understory and was dominated by an abundance of Fraxinus pennsylvanica, which was also an important species in the overstory. The forest at Moser Park matched the Hackberry-American Elm-Green Ash forest type. There was a lack of Quercus and many Acer species within the forest that are common in the region. Because of the distinct soil types and disturbance history a relatively uncommon forest type for the region has developed in Moser Park that differs from the majority of forested land surrounding it. Locations, such as Moser Park, with unusual plant community composition are important as forests in the region are relegated to isolated and small habitat patches. This work was conducted as part of a field botany course at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne.

Domestic (Glycine max) and Non-domesticated (Glycine soja) Soybean are Capable of Cold Acclimation. Jennifer Robison, Manami Saito, Stephen Randall, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis

Soybean has long been considered a cold intolerant species, incapable of cold acclimation. In contrast to these reports, cold acclimation periods resulted in a greater freezing tolerance in domestic (Glycine max) soybean cultivar ‘Williams 82’ with 50 % enhancement of freezing tolerance after 5.2 ± 0.6 days at cold temperature. To elucidate the diversity in cold acclimation we examined 8 cultivars of domestic and 6 cultivars of non-domesticated (G. soja) soybean. Some non- domesticated soybean are known to be more salt tolerance than domesticated soybean but there are no reports on cold tolerance. All cultivars studied had enhanced freezing tolerance after a 7 day cold acclimation period. Based on electrolyte leakage data, there was a weak correlation between maturity group and cold acclimated freezing tolerance in both domestic and non-domestic soybean, with northern maturity groups having a greater acclimation potential than southern maturity groups. Dehydrins are known to play important roles in cold acclimation and these have been described in soybean. Initial observation of the acidic dehydrin GmERD14 suggest there is little response of this protein in domestic soybean during cold acclimation. These data suggest that non-domesticated soybean does not possess important cold tolerance traits.

Effects of heterospecific pollination on stylar curvature, seed set, and fruit production in Hibiscus aponeurus and H. flavifolius from Laikipia, Kenya. Allison Hutt, Chantel Shores, Nantikan Becker, Ridwan Jojo, Derek Benson, and Andrew Schnabel, Indiana University South Bend

The closely related and morphologically similar Hibiscus aponeurus and H. flavifolius co-flower and share pollinators in the wooded savannas of Mpala Research Centre (MRC) in Laikipia, Kenya. Both species use backwards stylar curvature as a means of delayed autonomous selfing when pollinator visitation is low or absent. At MRC, H. flavifolius is much more abundant than H. aponeurus and receives significantly more insect visits on a daily basis than does H. aponeurus. Pollination by as few as 25-50 pollen grains can halt stylar curvature and disrupt delayed selfing. We conducted interspecific crosses to test the relative effects of heterospecific (HP) vs conspecific (CP) pollen on stylar curvature, pollen germination, seed development, and fruit production. In H. aponeurus, styles curved more when flowers received HP than when they received CP (full curvature and selfing in 35% vs 13% of the flowers, respectively), but in H. flavifolius, HP and CP stopped stylar curvature equally well and no flowers in either treatment were able to self-pollinate. Rates of pollen germination did not differ between HP and CP treatments for either species. Dissections of immature fruits in H. aponeurus found no difference in percent seed set (75-80%) between pollination treatments. No hybrid fruits reached maturity in either species, but H. aponeurus aborted fruits more quickly than did H. flavifolius. Reproductive isolation between these species appears to operate through fruit abortion, but isolation is not equally strong in both directions. Heterospecific pollen can disrupt delayed selfing and successfully fertilize ovules in both species.

Fungal Bioremediation of Solid Waste Michael Watters, Alexander Mehreteab, Alex Zapata, Elizabeth Phillippi, Blair Mitchell, Jacob Yablonowski, Daniel Zimmerman, Victor Manzanilla, Laura Knuth and Jonathan Schoer, Valparaiso University

Here we report on the use of Neurospora crassa to reduce human solid waste while converting it into fungal biomass which has the potential to be used as a dietary supplement. Originally conceived to address problems inherent to long- term space flight, it holds potential benefit in diverse situations including livestock confinement operations. Solid waste represents an underutilized resource. Filamentous fungi are natural decomposers with the ability to use this resource and reduce its environmental impact. We examined fungal growth and composition to determine the conditions which maximize the rate of conversion of waste into fungal biomass. We compared the effect of the length of incubation, method of aeration, available surface area, and presence of supplemental salts on fungal growth and nutritional composition. Rates of conversion and nutritional content were variable, with an average rate of conversion (grams of dry fungal biomass produced from grams of dry waste in the media) of 50%. The protein content of the fungal biomass collected averaged 50% (grams protein per gram fungal biomass), demonstrating its potential food value. Additionally fungal growth reduced the characteristic odor of the media. Some of the primary chemicals responsible for the characteristic odor of solid waste are indole & a range of short chain fatty acids. We present data that the fungal mass is consuming these chemicals from the media to fuel its own metabolism and thus acting to eliminate the normally associated odor. Finally, we compare several alternative fungal strains for their ability to recycle solid waste.

Relationships among flower color, flower size and seed production in bouncing bet, Saponaria officinalis (Poster) Madhavi Sreenath, Michael Tobin, and Elisabeth Wilson, DePauw University, Sandra Davis, University of Indianapolis, Dana Dudle, DePauw University

Saponaria officinalis, or bouncing bet, is a non-native plant that grows along roadsides and fields in Indiana. Pistillate phase flowers in this species vary widely in petal color, from pale to dark pink. Previous studies in our lab have shown that some insect pollinators preferentially visit white or pale pink flowers compared to dark pink flowers. Here we compare floral color and size with seed production of Saponaria officinalis plants grown in a common garden. For each plant, we measured floral size and color, then counted the number of seeds from open-pollinated and hand-pollinated flowers on each plant. Our data suggest that flower-level seed production was not tightly linked to flower color or size in the 2015 season, in contrast to our results from 2013 showing a reduction of seed production by plants with pale flowers. To investigate why dark pink flower color is maintained in Saponaria populations, we plan to conduct an artificial selection experiment in subsequent seasons. Using the six pinkest and six palest genotypes from this year, we will establish selection lines to expand the variation of floral color over several generations. If the pinkest flowers also vary consistently in other traits, e.g. vegetative anthocyanin content, floral phenology, or number of ovules, we may be able to conclude that flower pinkness is not adaptive, but, instead, it persists because the production of anthocyanin is linked to another, more directly beneficial trait.

ROS control mutants and added antioxidants induce hypobranching in Neurospora crassa. Michael Watters, Jacob Yablonowski, Tayler Grashel and Hamzah Abduljabar, Valparaiso University

Previous work suggested a role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism on branch density, the statistical distribution of physical distances between branch points along a growing hypha in Neurospora. Here we report the results of experiments designed to ask more generally about the relationship between ROS and branch density by examining the branching effects of selected ROS metabolism gene knockout mutants as well as the impact on branching of exogenously added antioxidants. In all ROS metabolism mutants tested, growth was shown to branch less densely (hypobranching) when grown at lower temperatures, a shift not observed in the wild-type. Interestingly, this holds true for knockouts of genes expected to reduce ROS as well as those expected to produce them. In addition, in tests on wild type Neurospora, added ascorbic acid produced unusual branching patterns. Hypha exposed to exogenous antioxidants display dose dependent hypobranching with hypha becoming more hypobranched as doses increase. At higher doses, however, the branch distribution becomes bimodal with one maximum continuing to shift toward hypobranching and the second maximum representing a spike of very closely spaced branch points.

Toward a checklist of Indiana fungi Scott T. Bates, Justin S. Golday, Rachel L. Kunnen, and Nathanael J. Pilla, Purdue University

Among the Earth’s biota fungi are recognized as important agents of decay, critical symbiotic partners to plants, as well as pathogens that increasingly represent threats to animal, plant and ecosystem health. Considerable progress has been made toward documenting the diversity of fungi occurring in the United States, and numerous fungal species have been reported on in the literature or collected as specimens housed within institutions across the nation. Records of Indiana fungi dating back to the 1800s are now accessible due to modern efforts to digitize our scientific heritage. Through online searches we have recovered ca.12,000 individual reports or records of fungi occurring in the state, which represent over 2000 species across five major phyla in the Eumycota. Included among these are important plant pathogens, diverse mycorrhizal taxa, deadly poisonous ‘toadstools’, as well as choice edible mushrooms.

Cell Biology

Förster Resonance Energy Transfer of Cerulean and Venus Fluorescent Proteins In Live Drosophila melanogaster Eyes (Poster) Saki Mihori, Donald F. Ready, Purdue University

Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) is a physical phenomenon that is used in biology to measure the proximity of two protein molecules and their interactions with one another. The two molecules consist of a donor (Cerulean Fluorescent Protein (CFP)) and an acceptor (Venus Fluorescent Protein). Both are variations of Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) and emit light of a different spectrum. When CFP and Venus are within a few nanometers of each other, the excitation of CFP can cause Venus to fluoresce. The purpose of this study was to determine if the values of well- established FRET standards published by Vogel, would apply in a living model system, the eyes of a live Drosophila melanogaster. Using transgenic flies made by Kirk Mecklenburg (IUSB), the Vogel standards CFP and Venus separated by 5, 17, and 32 amino acids in fly eyes were expressed, and FRET was measured using MetaMorph and RiFRET software. This study found that flies with CFP and Venus 5 amino acids apart (Cerulean-5-Venus) had the highest percent efficiency and Cerulean-32-Venus had the lowest percent efficiency. Cerulean-17-Venus had an intermediate percent efficiency. The values obtained in this study for Cerulean-5-Venus, Cerulean-17-Venus and Cerulean-32-Venus were 44.5%, 37.3% and 29.9% respectively. They agree well with published standard values of 43%, 38% and 31% respectively. This concludes that FRET can be used effectively to study protein-protein interactions in living Drosophila eyes.

Acetylation is not required for degradation of translocon-associated protein. Sarah M. Engle, Sheldon G. Watts, Justin J. Crowder, Sam Z. Coffey, Eric M. Rubenstein, Ball State University

The translocon is a transportation channel in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) that facilitates movement of proteins from the cytosol (where they are made) into the ER (where they function). Sometimes, this channel is obstructed by proteins that engage the translocon but do not cross completely through it. Proteins that stall in the channel are predicted to prevent other proteins from moving across the membrane. The protein component of “bad cholesterol” is known to stall in the translocon under certain circumstances. Proteins that stall in the channel are marked for destruction by an enzyme called Hrd1. This enzyme recognizes the stalled proteins by an uncharacterized mechanism, likely with the assistance of unidentified proteins. We found that a model translocon-stalling protein is post-translationally modified by N-terminal acetylation and acetylation of internal lysine residues. Protein acetylation is known to regulate the degradation of other ER-resident proteins. Therefore, we hypothesized that degradation of translocon-stalling proteins is also regulated by acetylation. Using site-directed mutagenesis, we generated a version of the translocon-clogging protein that could not be acetylated on internal lysine residues. We expressed this modified protein in cells with a mutation (or an alteration) in the N-terminal acetylation pathway thus allowing us to inhibit acetylation. Using these mutated cells, we were able to analyze protein degradation kinetics. We found that acetylation of this translocon-clogging protein does not influence the rate or mechanism of degradation. These results demonstrate that degradation of translocon-clogging proteins occurs by a different mechanism than that employed in the degradation of other Hrd1 substrates.

Acetylcholine Receptors Associate with Lipid Rafts at NMJs as Determined by Acceptor Photobleaching in Living Cells (Poster) Andrew Wright Russell Schwarte Indiana Wesleyan University

The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is the synapse that forms between a motor neuron and a skeletal muscle fiber which serves as the communication link between the nervous and muscular systems. Formation of the NMJ occurs during embryonic development when agrin, a heparin sulfate proteoglycan, is released by an axon terminal as it approaches a muscle cell. Association of agrin with the sarcolemma leads to the well-described signaling events responsible for the formation of the postsynaptic apparatus including the recruitment of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (ACHRs). A recent study indicates that this recruitment process involves lipid rafts, small heterogeneous domains in the lipid bilayer strengthened by cholesterol and glycosphingolipids, which are believed to provide a platform to which AChRs associate. However the experiments used to confirm association of ACHRs with lipids rafts relied on methods that have recently come into question. We therefore developed an alternative approach. Using fluorescence resonance emission transfer (FRET) by acceptor photo-bleaching and spectral unmixing to detect lipid raft-AChR interaction, we confirm that AChRs do associate with lipid rafts at viable NMJs formed in Xenopus laevis neuron-muscle co-cultures.

Assessing the Effects of Garcinol and EGCG on Breast Cancer Cell Proliferation (Poster) Paige Stansell, Jacklyn Miller, and Kimberly Baker, University of Indianapolis

Epidemiological studies indicate that there is a positive correlation between the consumption of foods rich in polyphenolic compounds and cancer prevention. Garcinol, found in the fruit Garcinia indica, and EGCG, found in green tea, are polyphenolic compounds that have been shown to exhibit anticancer activity in vitro. In this study, we evaluated the effects of Garcinol and EGCG, individually and in combination, on cell proliferation in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. In agreement with previous studies, we found that both Garcinol and EGCG inhibited MCF-7 cell proliferation in a dose dependent manner. Further studies to determine if co-administration of Garcinol and EGCG will result in synergistic inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation are underway.

Development of Tools to Study the Degradation of Translocon-Associated Proteins (Poster) Ashleigh D South, Sarah Engle, Eric M Rubenstein, Ball State University

The translocon is a channel within the membrane of the Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) that allows for transportation of proteins from the cytosol to the ER and then to their final destination. Clogging of the translocon by a protein for a given amount of time is likely to impair cellular function as other proteins are unable to get to the sites at which they function. Cells use the ubiquitin-proteasome system to unclog proteins stuck within a translocon. ER-resident proteins recognize and poly-ubiquitylate translocon-clogging proteins, which then signals for the proteasome to degrade them. One protein known to clog the translocon in humans is apolipoprotein B (apoB). ApoB is the protein component of low-density lipoproteins (LDL, or bad cholesterol). ApoB will move into and stay within the translocon until the lipid component of LDL binds to it. An artificial yeast protein, Deg1-Sec62, mimics apoB in the model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae (budding yeast) by aberrantly engaging the translocon. Like apoB, Deg1-Sec62 is targeted for degradation by Hrd1. How Hrd1 recognizes Deg1-Sec62 and targets it for degradation is not known. Therefore, tools (a plasmid and yeast strain) have been created using molecular biological techniques to rapidly and efficiently determine the genetic requirements for degradation of Deg1-Sec62 on the basis of yeast cell growth.

Differential Visual Motor Response in the Q344X Transgenic Zebrafish (Poster) Khaled Noui-Mehidi, Logan Ganzen, Yuk Fai Leung; Purdue University

The zebrafish model is ideal for studying the retina because of the high degree of conservation in the organ and because of the speed with which the zebrafish retina develops. This rapid development is also highly integrated: visual sensation modulates zebrafish behavior even at the larval stage. In this research we use the zebrafish model, and the transgenic rhodopsin mutant Q344X in particular, to study a disorder in the retinitis pigmentosa (RP) family. We use the visual motor assay to characterize the behavior of mutant zebrafish in reaction to visual stimulus and distinguish between the visual motor response (VMR) of mutant and wild type larvae. This characterization associates a behavioral phenotype with rod degeneration in affected retinae, and the distinction serves as a benchmark with which to appraise the therapeutic potential of drug treatments. We hypothesize that low light stimulus will elicit different visual motor behavioral response in RP affected mutants and wild type controls, and, further, that drug treatments that reconcile the behavioral phenotypes may ameliorate rod degeneration in RP affected retinae. The Q344X rhodopsin mutation was isolated from a human patient with RP, and integrated into a zebrafish line using the tol2 transposon system. Mutant rhodopsin expression is coupled with GFP expression in the olfactory bulb to facilitate screening of affected mutants from wild type larvae. We generated VMR assay parameters that elicit distinct responses in the two groups. Once we could reliably distinguish between the two groups (RP mutant and wild type), we used high throughput VMR assays to screen drugs for RP treatment. Drug treatments at 5 days post fertilization were evaluated for therapeutic potential. The larvae were treated with the SNRI duloxetine, and Schisandrin A and Schisandrin B, compounds isolated from the five flavor berry, the fruit of Schisandra chinensis. Preliminary results reflect the behavioral modulation of the various treatments rather than phenotype, often confounding the distinction between wild type and RP groups. Moving forward, we plan to generate VMR assay parameters that distinguish between the two groups more robustly. Additionally, various data processing algorithms can be used to more clearly distinguish between the groups' behavioral responses. We are also exploring other methods, behavioral and histological, to characterize the Q344X mutant.

Directed Interrogation of Microvenvironnmental Influences on Vascularity and Metastasis in Head and Neck Cancer Cell Lines (Poster) Sean Bogardus, Jocelyne Hanquier, Catherine Wheeler, and Colleen Doci, Marian University

Within tumor microenvironments, the convoluted interplay of signaling events can make it challenging to identify and analyze genes that regulate vascular accessibility and metastasis from those that promote growth and survival. Here we sought to dissect these overlapping pathways by differential analysis of an in vivo orthotopic model of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Using an orthotopic mouse model, we injected HNSCC cell lines in the tongues and then measured tumor growth, metastasis into cervical lymph nodes, and vascularization of the tumor. To focus our efforts specifically on the microvenvironnmental interplay between vascularity and metastasis, we categorized the tumor into one of three subgroups: metastatic vascular, metastatic avascular, or non-metastatic avascular. Within these phenotypically defined subgroups, we performed differential analysis of each cell line’s transcriptome to obtain a list of statistically significant up and downregulated genes. Selecting for genes at least 2-fold differentially expressed with p<0.01 between metastatic vascular and metastatic avascular cell lines, we created a reference target gene list for further analysis. From this culled gene list, we assessed common pathway utilization and master regulatory transcription factors using the ENRICHR database. Cancer, focal adhesion, and axon guidance were the three predominant pathways connecting these genes. Intriguingly, one transcription factor, HOXA5, dominated the transcript regulation in these groups. HOXA5 has been suggested to have potential roles both in promotion and suppression of tumor growth and metastasis. Thus, targeted investigation of HOXA5 within our cohort of vascularly-defined metastatic cells may help decipher this contradiction. Together, our data suggests that HOXA5 may be a critical regulator of downstream elements that drive vascularity and tumorigenesis and that systematic targeting of HOXA5 and other regulatory genes within our model may identify novel therapeutic alternatives for advanced disease.

Elucidating protein kinase C substrates involved in internalization of the Na+-K+-2Cl− cotransporter in the human colonic crypt cells T84 (Poster) Jesse Smallwood, Natasa Petreska, Alexander Ahlgrim and Patrice G Bouyer, Valparaiso University

Fluid secretion in the lungs and colon lubricates and protects cells lining the cavity of those organs. Dysregulation of fluid secretion is the hallmark of diseases such as: cystic fibrosis (defective secretion) or secretory diarrhea (excessive secretion). In epithelial cells, the driving force for fluid secretion is active transcellular chloride secretion, with the basolateral Na-K-2Cl cotransporter 1 (NKCC1) pumping chloride inside the cell for its secretion by apical chloride channels. Previous studies have highlighted the critical role of NKCC1 in the regulation of chloride secretion in the colon. We have demonstrated that activation of the protein kinase C (PKC) causes a rapid internalization of NKCC1, hence, blunting chloride secretion. Nonetheless, the cellular and molecular details of PKC-mediated NKCC1 internalization remain unclear. Myristoylated, alanine-rich C kinase substrate (MARCKS) and α-adducin are two known PKC substrates participating in PKC-mediated endocytosis in other cells, but their potential role in NKCC1 endocytosis has not been tested. In the present study, we showed by Western blot that α-adducin and MARCKS are expressed in the human colonic crypt cells T84. In addition, using phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), an activator of the conventional and novel PKC caused both α-adducin and MARCKS to be phosphorylated and represent therefore PKC substrates in T84 cells. To test whether α-adducin or MARCKS binds to NKCC1 during PKC activation we performed immunoprecipitation experiments. After PKC activation by PMA, we found that immunoprecipitating NKCC1 pulled down MARCKS and α- adducin. In conclusion, our preliminary data strongly suggest that α-adducin and MARCKS are involved in NKCC1 internalization during PKC activation.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Alters the Transcriptional Profile of GnRH-Producing GT1-7 Cells. (Poster) Noah J. Levi, Graham Redweik, Jared R. Santana, Zachery R. Campbell, Heidi E. Walsh, Wabash College

Obesity is linked to infertility, but the impact of obesity-induced metabolic changes on the reproductive axis is unclear. In mammals, reproductive function is regulated by hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which controls pituitary gonadotropin release and subsequent gonadal function. Dysfunction of GnRH-producing neurons leads to infertility in both sexes. The excess of circulating nutrients generated from overnutrition interferes with the function of hypothalamic neurons that control food intake by disrupting normal protein folding in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). When protein folding load exceeds cellular folding capacity, the cell initiates an ER stress response (the unfolded protein response, or UPR) through a defined set of signaling pathways and transcription factors. In obesity, ER stress can also promote inflammatory responses in hypothalamic neurons, creating a vicious cycle of cellular dysfunction. Using the immortalized mouse hypothalamic cell line GT1-7 as a model, we measured three important transcriptional targets (Fos, Il6, and Gnrh1) to determine how fertility may be impacted by ER stress. The transcription factor c-fos, encoded by theFos gene, is implicated in protein kinase C (PKC)-induced downregulation of Gnrh1 as well as upregulation of the pro- inflammatory cytokine Il6 by inflammatory signals. In GT1-7 cells, ER stress (induced by tunicamycin or thapsigargin) increased Fos expression in a PKC-dependent manner, as pretreatment with the broad-spectrum inhibitor Gö6983 blocked Fos induction. ER stress induced a canonical UPR in GT1-7 cells, as measured by increased Ddit3 and Cepbp mRNA levels, as well as an inflammatory response, as evidenced by increased Il6 mRNA. The upregulation of Il6 by ER stress was also PKC-dependent. Expression of Gnrh1 was significantly repressed by ER stress, but because PKC inhibition did not fully rescue this repression, multiple ER stress-induced pathways could converge on Gnrh1. Our work demonstrates that obesity may impact fertility centrally by changing the transcriptional profile of GnRH neurons. Specifically, the reduction of Gnrh1 mRNA by ER stress we observe in concert with upregulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokine Il6 suggests that inflammatory signals may exacerbate ER stress-induced dysfunction of GnRH neurons.

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) rescues neuromuscular defects associated with expression of the mammalian Down Syndrome critical gene Dyrk1a in C. elegans motor neurons. Amber Kline, Butler University, JoAnne Babula, Butler University, Jennifer Kowalski, Butler University

Down Syndrome (DS), also known as trisomy 21, is the most common genetically defined cause of intellectual disability. DS results in physical abnormalities, impaired cognition, and neuromuscular disabilities; few treatments exist. Among DS critical genes on chromosome 21, Dyrk1A emerged as a mediator of the biology underlying many cognitive and developmental DS phenotypes; evidence suggests it may also contribute to neuromuscular impairment. Dyrk1A encodes a serine-threonine kinase that phosphorylates multiple neuronal proteins, including several involved in synaptic vesicle endocytosis, and is overexpressed 1.5-fold in DS. We are attempting to characterize effects of Dyrk1a overexpression at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) in Caenorhabditis elegans roundworms, whose simple, conserved nervous system makes them amenable to genetic, imaging, and behavioral studies. Worms expressing mDyrk1a have increased muscle excitation compared to wild type animals, consistent with altered neurotransmitter signaling. Imaging experiments will determine effects of neuronal mDyrk1a expression on motor neuron number and NMJ structure, as well as assess requirements for the mDyrk1A kinase domain at this synapse. We are also using this mDyrk1A model to test the ability of the green tea polyphenol and known Dyrk1A inhibitor, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), to ameliorate neuromuscular phenotypes caused by neuronal Dyrk1a overexpression. In mDyrk1A-expressing worms treated five days with EGCG, muscle excitation was restored to near wild type levels, supporting a role for mDyrk1a kinase activity at the NMJ. Along with further characterizing effects of EGCG, our C. elegans model of neuronal mDyrk1a overexpression could be used to screen other compounds for neuromuscular recovery relevant to DS.

Genetic, genomic and computational analyses of heart development in Drosophila (Poster) Alan M. Michelson, National Institutes of Health and Shaad M. Ahmad, Indiana State University

A comparison of the molecular mechanisms governing heart development in mammals and in Drosophila reveals a remarkable conservation of all major regulatory components. Many of these conserved regulators of heart development have also been found to be mutated in various types of human congenital heart disease. Thus, the identification of new genes involved in heart development, and detailed investigations into their function in Drosophila, provide considerable insight into related mechanisms controlling cardiogenesis in mammals, including humans. Our laboratories demonstrate two separate approaches to identify and analyze the roles of such cardiogenic genes. First, we illustrate an integrated strategy we used to discover 70 novel genes expressed in the heart or its precursor by combining informative genetic perturbations of cardiac development, a statistical analysis of the genome-wide gene expression profiles of flow cytometry-purified mesodermal cells, and large-scale validation of predicted gene expression patterns by whole-embryo in situ hybridization. We show that two of the genes identified by this approach encode Forkhead (Fkh) domain transcription factors (TFs) that govern cardiac progenitor cell divisions by a Polo kinase-dependent pathway, a finding which suggested that related functions might explain similar cardiac defects associated with mutations in FoxM1, a mammalian Fkh gene that regulates a mammalian polo ortholog. Second, we demonstrate a combination of machine learning, array-based ChIP data, and experimental analyses used to computationally classify, predict and validate cell-type specific cardiac enhancers and the critical TF binding sites responsible for their activities. This second approach allowed us to identify novel ubiquitous regulators of cardiogenesis such as Myb and Suppressor of Hairless, and dissect their respective roles in mediating cardiac progenitor cell divisions and determining cardiac subtype fates. A cardiogenic role for Myb has since been identified in mammals, emphasizing once again the efficacy of our approaches in discerning conserved regulatory mechanisms in heart development.

Investigation of potential interactions between the G-protein coupled receptor FSHR-1 and neuropeptides in controlling synaptic transmission in C. elegans (Poster) Sierra C. Williams, Jennifer R. Kowalski, Butler University

Neurons are the communicating cells of our nervous system; they act by relaying chemical signals, called neurotransmitters. When bound to receptors on neighboring neurons, neurotransmitters elicit inhibitory or excitatory signals; homeostasis requires a balance between these (E:I balance). Along with neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, short amino acid chains packaged within and released from dense core vesicles (DCVs), regulate synaptic signaling. Neuropeptides bind G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) on target cells to cause diverse effects including regulating transcription and intracellular calcium to influence synaptic signaling. Due to the mammalian nervous system’s complexity, implications of neuropeptide interaction with other neuronal chemicals and their receptors are unknown. We use the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) in Caenorhabditis elegans roundworms as a model synapse to investigate neuropeptides’ influence on E:I balance. The GPCR FSHR-1, which is homologous to mammalian glycopeptide hormone receptors and regulates neuronal signaling at the C. elegans NMJ, is hypothesized to function as a neuropeptide receptor. Our objective is to determine if neuropeptides interact with FSHR-1 to control NMJ signaling. We hypothesize one or more neuropeptides are ligands for FSHR-1 at this synapse. We are using behavioral assays on worms unable to release all neuropeptides or those lacking a specific neuropeptide along with worms lacking the fshr-1 gene to determine if neuropeptides and fshr-1 interact genetically at the NMJ. If neuropeptides are acting in the same pathway as fshr-1, double mutants should show a non-additive NMJ phenotype similar to single fshr-1 mutants. Future experiments will test whether FSHR-1 affects neuropeptide release from DCVs using fluorescent imaging.

Investigation of the localization and expression of the G-protein coupled receptor FSHR-1 in C. elegans neurons Kyle Cherry, Amy Godfrey, Jennifer Kowalski, Butler University

Synaptic transmission occurs when pre-synaptically released neurotransmitters bind to receptors either continuing (excitatory) or stopping (inhibitory) the signal in the postsynaptic cell. Excitatory to inhibitory (E:I) balance is critical for proper neurological function. My project focuses on a potential neuropeptide receptor, FSHR-1, and its role in synaptic transmission at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) in Caenorhabditis elegans. Previous data from our lab and others has shownshowed worms lacking fshr-1 have reduced muscle contraction and that FSHR-1 expression in neurons is sufficient to restore normal NMJ signaling to these animals. We hypothesize that fshr-1 acts pre-synaptically in one or more neuron subclasses to control NMJ signaling. To identify cells in which fshr-1 is expressed, we performed colocalization experiments with animals expressing green fluorescent protein in fshr-1-expressing cells and red fluorescent proteins in specific neuron subclasses. Experiments testing fshr-1 expression in sensory neurons in the C. elegans head and tail showed no overlap of red and green fluorescence, indicating fshr-1 is not expressed in these cells. Similarly, glutamatergic interneurons, cholinergic motor neurons, and GABAergic motor neurons also showed no fshr-1 expression. We are currently creating strains to do co-localization with pharyngeal neurons in the head. We also made a fluorescently tagged FSHR-1 protein to be used to determine FSHR-1 subcellular localization. This tagged FSHR-1 will be assessed for co-localization with a red fluorescent protein-labeled synaptic vesicle protein. Understanding how and where FSHR-1 is acting will allow us to better understand its role in E:I balance and which may further our understanding of E:I imbalances in certain neurological diseases.

Investigation of the neuronal functions of the SUMO enzyme UBC-9 in C. elegans (Poster) Victoria Kreyden, Kristen M. Rush, Morgan K Harrison, Jennifer R. Kowalski, Butler University

Proper neuronal communication is essential for nervous system function. This communication occurs at specialized junctions called synapses where chemical neurotransmitters released from presynaptic neurons bind receptors on postsynaptic cells. Synaptic protein activity, localization, and abundance are tightly regulated; misregulation occurs in neurological diseases, such as epilepsy. One pathway that regulates synaptic proteins is the SUMO (small ubiquitin-like modifier) pathway, which adds small SUMO polypeptide tags to targets; however, the molecular mechanisms by which SUMOylation affects the balance of signaling are unknown. We investigate how SUMO enzymes control synaptic transmission inCaenorhabditis elegans at one synapse - the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). This synapse employs a balance of excitatory (acetylcholine) and inhibitory (GABA) signaling from presynaptic motor neurons to control the contraction of postsynaptic muscle cells. We used behavioral assays, loss-of-function techniques, and overexpression studies to examine how the SUMO conjugating enzyme UBC-9 acts in specific neuronal cell types to control muscle contraction at the NMJ. We found that UBC-9 overexpression or inhibition in all neurons and in just GABA neurons caused increased muscle contraction. Increased pre-synaptic accumulation of GFP-tagged synaptic vesicle proteins in neurons of UBC-9 overexpression worms relative to wildtype worms suggested the increased contraction may result from decreased GABA release. We are testing whether overexpression of catalytically inactive UBC-9 [UBC-9(C93S] prevents the muscle over-excitation induced by UBC-9. Given the similarities between C. elegans and mammalian nervous systems, our results may provide insight related to human neurobiology and may contribute to research on diseases where neuronal signaling balance is impaired.

Investigation of the Role of the G Protein-Coupled Receptor FSHR-1 in Regulating Synaptic Transmission in C. elegans Allyson Munneke, Butler University, Sarah Olofsson, Butler University, Julie Kolnik, Butler University, Amy Godfrey, Butler University, Jennifer Kowalski, Butler University

Regulation of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission is critical for nervous system function; misregulation of this signaling occurs in neurological disorders. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are mediators of neuronal signaling and may regulate synaptic transmission. One such conserved GPCR, FSHR-1, may act as a key regulator of synaptic signaling at the C. elegans neuromuscular junction (NMJ) where a balance of excitatory cholinergic and inhibitory GABA signaling controls muscle activity. In addition to controlling C. elegans innate immunity and germline differentiation, FSHR- 1 was previously shown to regulate cholinergic signaling for muscle excitation and hypothesized to act as neuropeptide receptor. The specific mechanism and site of FSHR-1 activity at the NMJ, however, are unknown. Here, we show FSHR-1 may regulate NMJ signaling by controlling signaling in both cholinergic and GABA motor neurons. In fshr-1 mutants, re- expression of FSHR-1 in all neurons or only in GABA neurons restores near wild type muscle contraction. Additionally, fshr-1 mutants exhibit synaptic vesicle accumulation at cholinergic and GABA presynapses, indicative of decreased acetylcholine release and decreased cholinergic drive, respectively. GABA neuron-specific rescue of fshr- 1 expression exacerbates the synaptic vesicle accumulation of fshr-1 mutants without affecting overall synapse structure. These data suggest that control of NMJ signaling may require a balance of FSHR-1 activity in multiple neuron types and/or that the rescue of muscle contraction by FSHR-1 GABA neuron-specific expression may be due to FSHR-1 function in other pathways indirectly influencing muscle activity. Current work involves further elucidating the role of FSHR-1 signaling in each motor neuron class.

Knocking down inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptors binding protein released with IP3 (IRBIT) increases intestinal barrier permeability and decreases chloride secretion in the human colonic crypt cells T84 Patrice Bouyer, Valparaiso University and the University of Chicago

Inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptors binding protein released with IP3 (IRBIT) regulates bicarbonate-dependent fluid secretion in the pancreas and in the parotid gland. Colonic fluid secretion is chloride-dependent and the putative role of IRBIT in controlling chloride-dependent fluid secretion has not been investigated. To evaluate its role in the regulation of fluid secretion, IRBIT expression was knockdown using an adenovirus expressing a small hairpin (sh) against IRBIT (shIRBIT) in T84 cells. In shIRBIT T84 cells, the transepithelial resistance (66 ± 9 Ω.cm2, n = 20) was dramatically decreased compared to uninfected cells (1075 ± 102, n = 14, P < 0.001, unpaired t-test) and non-targeting gene shlacz (1044 ± 138, n = 14, p < 0.001), with no difference between uninfected and shlacz cells (p = 0.8). these results suggested that the paracellular permeability (pp) might be impaired. fitc-dextran pp was assayed in shirbit or shlacz t84 cells. using a 3 kda fitc-dextran, the pp (mol/ml.min.cm2) was 9.2 10-10 (ctrl), 1.2510-9 (shlacz) and 9.3 10-8 (shirbit), showing a slight increase of the pp in shlacz, but a dramatic increase in shirbit compared to control. increase of intestinal pp is observed during inflammatory bowel disease (ibd), i tested whether the inflammatory cytokines tnfα and il-13 affected irbit expression. in t84 cells, 72 h treatment with il-13 and tnfα decreased irbit expression by 36% (p < 0.001, n = 5), 44% (p < 0.001, n = 3) respectively. finally, using the short-circuit current to estimate chloride secretion in t84 cells, i found a ~36% decrease of the forskolin-stimulated short-circuit current in shirbit compared to control cells. Knocking down IRBIT increased the PP and decreased chloride secretion in T84 cells and TNFα and IL-13 decreased IRBIT expression. All together these results suggest that IRBIT may play a role in the pathobiology of IBD.

Low Doses of Actinomycin D Selectively Inhibit Cancer Cells with Nucleolar Amplification (Poster) Alexander Wetmore, Marian University Indianapolis; Colleen L. Doci, Marian University Indianapolis

Actinomycin D (ActD) is chemotherapeutic agent that blocks cellular proliferation. At high doses, ActD is known to inhibit and completely abolish RNA synthesis, resulting in massive cell death. However, high doses of ActD are also highly toxic and associated with many side effects. In low doses, ActD selectively inhibits ribosomal and transfer RNA production but not messenger RNA synthesis, resulting in translocation of nucleolar proteins to the nucleoplasm, ribosomal dissociation, and subsequent cell mortality. A common feature of highly aggressive cancer cells is that many have amplification of their nucleoli, suggesting they may be more sensitive to low doses of ActD. However, to our knowledge no study has compared the effects of low-dose ActD on cells with high numbers of nucleoli versus normal cells with fewer nucleoli. To compare the effects of low dose treatment on nucleolar-dense malignant cells and normal cells, we assessed subcellular translocation and viability as surrogates of ActD activity and chemotoxicity, respectively. To measure viability, we used microscopy and trypan blue exclusion to assess relative populations of dead and live cells post-treatment. Our results showed almost a two-fold increased sensitivity to the effects of ActD in nucleolar-dense malignant cells when compared to normal cells. In addition, we assessed localization of resident subcellular proteins, because ActD has previously been shown to deplete nucleolar proteins and induce their translocation to the nucleoplasm. Our observations supported these claims and showed translocation of nucleolar specific proteins to the nucleoplasm in response to low dose ActD treatment. Together, these data indicate that at low doses, ActD selectively inhibits cells with high nucleolar ratios. Intriguingly, this subpopulation of cells often correlates with highly aggressive malignancies. This suggests that ActD might function as a viable treatment option when employed as a targeted treatment in conjunction with diagnostic approaches that identify nucleolar amplification.

Optical Density Accurately Predicts Dry Mass of Algae Produced in a Buoyant-Lift Photobioreactor David Jantz, Brenner Burkholder, Nathanael Dick, Tessa Yoder, Aaron Kauffmann, David Slagel, Ryan Sensenig, and Stan Grove, Goshen College

Goshen College and Formco, Inc. have collaborated for several years to test and refine the buoyant lift photobioreactor (BLPBR). The buoyant lift photobioreactor is a novel, patented system for growing algae. The algae can be processed into an assortment of products and is a prime candidate as a source of alternative energy, feed, food, and bioremediation. The buoyant lift design reduces current photobioreactor limitations of high-energy input, low surface areas and high material costs. Previous work has focused on refining the buoyant lift photobioreactor to improve functionality. More recently, the project has focused on developing methods to measure the algal growth curve. Specifically, we designed an experiment to determine if we can use optical density to accurately predict the dry mass of algae biomass. An Indiana Academy of Science grant has supported these efforts. It was hypothesized that determination of a correlation between dry mass and optical density would produce a means to quickly determine a sample’s dried mass, expediting the data collection process. Results at the beginning of the project showed high variability in the relationship between optical density and dry mass. This observed variability was likely caused by excessively small sample volumes that were used to take dry mass. The experimental design was modified to take larger liquid samples for dry mass data. We found a statistically robust relationship between optical density and dry mass for the BLPBR system being examined. These data will enable further optimization of the buoyant lift photobioreactor design and harvesting techniques, with the goal of maximizing algal growth with limited energy inputs.

Protein Quality Control Enzymes Sensitize Cells to Proposed Chemotherapeutic Agentb (Poster) David Huston and Eric (VJ) Rubenstein, Ball State University

Cells employ a variety of quality control mechanisms to recognize and destroy old, damaged or misfolded proteins. Failure of protein quality control mechanisms can contribute to diseases ranging from Alzheimer’s disease to cancer. We investigated the cellular response to a proposed chemotherapeutic agent. The goal of our research is to determine the role of highly conserved protein quality control mechanisms in mitigating the effects of this compound, using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model. We compared the growth of yeast strains lacking functional quality control proteins in media containing the compound. Surprisingly, our results show that strains lacking certain quality control components exhibited enhanced growth in the presence of the compound. This previously uncharacterized function of quality control proteins may enable further pharmacodynamic investigations of therapeutics for human disease.

Role of the gene regulatory protein SRF in activation of the muscle spindle-specifying gene Egr3 Avery M. Sampson, Carter Herndon, Larry Fromm, Ball State University

Muscle spindles are sensory receptors composed of specialized muscle cells, known as intrafusal fibers, along with the endings of sensory neuron axons that innervate these muscle fibers. Formation of muscle spindles requires neuregulin 1 (NRG1), which is released by sensory axons, transcriptionally activating the transcription factor Egr3 in muscle cells that are contacted, which in turn activates various target genes involved in forming intrafusal fibers. We have previously shown, in cultured muscle cells, that transcriptional induction of Egr3 by NRG1 occurs through a composite regulatory element that binds the gene regulatory proteins serum response factor (SRF) and CREB. Here we directly addressed the role of SRF and how SRF might be activated during NRG1 signaling. We show that inactivation of SRF, either alone or in conjunction with CREB inactivation, causes a substantial decrease in induction of Egr3 by NRG1, indicating that SRF strongly contributes to Egr3 transcriptional induction by NRG1. SRF is known to be regulated through signaling by coactivators belonging to two different families, ternary complex factor (TCF) and myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF). We find that MRTFs are activated by NRG1 signaling, but Egr3 activation occurs independently of MRTF activation. We find that NRG1-induced Egr3 transcription requires the MAP kinase Erk1/2, which is known to activate SRF by phosphorylating TCFs. While signal transmission from MAP kinases to SRF typically involves translocation of activated MAP kinases from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, where they phosphorylate TCFs, we found that Erk1/2 remains in the cytoplasm following its activation without translocation to the nucleus. TCFs have a different subcellular localization than Erk1/2, being constitutively localized to the nucleus, and no TCF activation was detected, suggesting that Erk1/2 effectors do not include TCFs. These results suggest that SRF is targeted during NRG1 signaling by a mechanism distinct from previously identified signal-regulated SRF coactivators.

Significant adjuvant augmentation of the anti-cancer effects of 5-Fluorouracil and Gemcitabine in human ductal pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells with the antibiotic ciprofloxaxin. Katie M. Beverley, Colton L. Starcher, Amanda S. Khan, Brandy Ploetner, and Dean A. Wiseman, Shaheen College of Arts & Sciences, University of Indianapolis

We and others have recently observed that there is unusual sensitivity of ductal pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells to the fluoroquinolone antibiotic ciprofloxacin (Cipro) versus other cells of pancreatic origin. Given that pancreatic adenocarcinoma is among the most lethal and untreatable forms of human cancer, identification of novel potential therapies are of extraordinary importance, even more so if the novel therapeutics in question are currently-approved FDA drugs. The current understanding of the mechanism of action of Cipro is induction of S-phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, which led us to hypothesize that it would be well-suited for adjuvant therapy with other forms of drugs which induce S-phase cell cycle arrest. Two front-line drugs for pancreatic adenocarcinoma include 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and gemcitabine (2'-deoxy-2',2'-difluorocytidine, dFdC), both of which induce S-phase arrest and apoptosis. We therefore elected to examine the in vitro efficacy of drug combinations of 5-FU and dFdC with Cipro. Firstly, in order to establish a baseline level of efficacy in our cells, we first subjected MIA PaCa-2 human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells (ATCCCRM/CRL 1420) to 24-hour single-agent therapy with 5-FU (0-100 μM), dFdC (0-100 nM), and Cipro (0- 800 μM) for 24 hr, and assessed effect on PaCa-2 cell proliferation through mitochondrial activity via MTS assay. We found the IC50 doses for each to be ~20 μM for 5-FU, ~20 nM, and ~350 μM for Cipro, respectively, when compared to untreated cells. We then compared these results to simultaneous 24-hour combination chemotherapy of 5-FU or dFdC with either 200 μM or 400 μM Cipro. We found that the co-administration of Cipro significantly enhanced the anti- proliferative effect of 5-FU and dFdC(p<0.05 vs. single-agent therapy). Based on findings, we conclude that Cipro represents an extraordinary opportunity to augment established front line drugs in the chemotherapeutic treatment of human pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and merits significant further investigation.

The effect of lignin composition on the cell wall polysaccharides composition and cell-cell separation in poplar woody biomass (Poster) Varun Subramanyam, Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, Nicholas Carpita Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Purdue University, Maureen McCann, Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, Haibing Yang Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, Richard Meilan, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University

The growth of the world’s emerging economies is slowly making it clear that there are consequences to dependence on fossil fuels. It is imperative to study alternative sources of energy, like the ability of plants to convert solar energy into biomass, the major source of biofuels, through the production of lignin, and polysaccharides. Poplar is one tree model studied for its high biomass and fast growth. Three different lignin variants of poplar were obtained: High syringyl (S)- Lignin, High G-Lignin, and Hydroxyl G-Lignin, via molecular engineering of lignin biosynthetic pathways. The purpose of this study is to analyze how these mutants affect cellulose and hemicellulose polysaccharide compositions, as well as cell-cell separation, which affects particle size. Various assays were used to study polysaccharide composition. One method is the preparation of alditol acetates for sugar analysis of hemicellulose. Cellulose concentration is determined by nitrate acetic acid, and phenol sulfuric assays. A fourth assay to determine the amount of intact cells released from tissues subjected to sequential chemical extractions of cell wall components called acid chlorite-alkaline assay was also developed. Our results showed that cells only separate upon treatment with acidified sodium chlorite followed by dilute alkali. Furthermore, cells from transgenic poplar with high S-lignin content separated more easily than wild-type wood. Partial lignin removal facilitates xylan extraction and cell separation in dilute alkali. Sugar analysis of material extracted by dilute alkali revealed the presence of xylans and a minor amount of rhamnogalacturonan-I in this fraction. Our results suggest that xylans or rhamnogalacturonan-I may interact with lignin to play a key role in cell-cell adhesion in poplar. We also hypothesize that the High S-Lignin variants will have higher sugar production and therefore better biofuel conversion. Our work provides new insights in lignin modification to enhance yields of biofuels from genetically modified biomass.

The effects of ER stress on protein quality control degradation pathways (Poster) Bryce Buchanan and Eric Rubenstein, Ball State University

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) associated degradation (ERAD) protein quality control pathway degrades aberrant proteins at the ER membrane. ERAD can be divided into four subclasses known as ERAD-T (translocon), -L (lumen), -M (membrane), and -C (cytosol), which degrade proteins with aberrations in different positions relative to the ER membrane. ER stress occurs in several human diseases when misfolded proteins accumulate in the ER. Preliminary data suggested the ERAD subclasses are differentially affected by ER stress. Using model substrate proteins for ERAD, we aim to study the effects of ER stress on each of the four pathways by performing cycloheximide chase analyses. Our data indicate that ERAD-T is impaired by ER stress, while ERAD-M and ERAD-C are not. A better understanding of the effects of ER stress on these pathways may contribute to the discovery of therapeutic targets for diseases characterized by increased levels of ER stress including Parkinson’s and diabetes.

The Effects of Thyroid Hormone on Opsin During Zebrafish Retinal Development (Poster) Patrick Tiffany, Sylvia Bonilla, Meng She, and Martin Tiang, Purdue University

Zebrafish are a model organism for the retina because they contain opsin proteins that are similar to human opsin proteins. Zebrafish embryos can also absorb molecules through their skin, so incubating them with different solutions allows one to observe the effects of that solution on protein expression during the development of the zebrafish embryo. The purpose of this experiment is to test if triiodothyronine, or T3, which is a small, hydrophobic hormone that has a variety of effects on opsin expression in mammal and avian systems, also affects the expression of opsin in zebrafish retinas. For this experiment, embryos were subjected to 10 nM or 50 nM concentrations of T3 at either days 1 and 2 post fertilization or at days 3 and 4 post fertilization. They were then treated with paraformaldehyde at 5 days post fertilization and whole-mount in situ hybridization was performed to visualize the expression of the messenger RNA of each of the five different opsins (red, green, blue, ultraviolet, and rhodopsin). Based off of images taken of the embryos subjected to in situ hybridizations, we observed that when treated with T3 at days 4 and 5 post fertilization, green opsin, uv opsin, and rhodopsin showed decreases in expression while blue and red opsin showed increases in expression. T3 also affected the patterns of both blue and green opsin expression in the retina. These findings tell us that T3 must interact in some way with certain opsingenes in the nucleus to increase or decrease expression at 3 and 4 days post fertilization. This shows that thyroid hormone, and possibly other hormones, could play a role in determining the number and distribution of the different kinds of photoreceptors throughout the outer nuclear layer of the retina.

The investigation of SYD-2 as a potential substrate of the Anaphase Promoting Complex in promoting GABA release at the C. elegans neuromuscular junction (Poster) Lauryn Campagnoli, Daniel K. Lester, and Jennifer R. Kowalski

Neurotransmitters are chemical signals released by presynaptic cells that elicit excitatory or inhibitory responses in postsynaptic cells. Excitatory:inhibitory balance (E:I balance) is governed by the abundance of synaptic proteins. Ubiquitin ligases tag target synaptic proteins with ubiquitin polypeptides. This alters protein location, activity, and abundance. Defects in E:I balance and the ubiquitin system occur in neurological disorders. We use the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) inCaenorhabditis elegans as a model for studying the mechanisms behind ubiquitin enzyme control of E:I balance. At the C. elegans NMJ, acetylcholine (Ach) neurotransmitter release causes muscle excitation (contraction) whereas GABA neurotransmitter release inhibits muscle excitation (relaxation). These phenotypes can be assayed using aldicarb, which causes Ach buildup in the synapse, leading to muscle hypercontraction/paralysis. We used aldicarb assays to show that the Anaphase Promoting Complex (APC)—a conserved ubiquitin ligase—acts in C. elegans GABA motor neurons to indirectly promote GABA release. We hypothesize that the APC negatively regulates SYD-2 Liprinα, a conserved scaffolding protein that acts at GABA neuron presynapses to promote neurotransmitter release. SYD-2 has two APC recognition motifs and shows increased levels at the NMJ in APC loss of function (APC LoF) mutants. APC LoF and APC LoF;SYD-2 LoF double mutants are both aldicarb resistant, consistent with SYD-2 acting downstream of the APC at the NMJ. Preliminary data suggest SYD-2 overexpression causes aldicarb hypersensitivity, as does APC LoF, also consistent with our model. Future experiments will involve mutating the APC recognition motifs within SYD-2 and observing synaptic levels of this SYD-2 variant.

Two Forkhead transcription factors regulate cardiac progenitor specification by controlling the expression of receptors of the fibroblast growth factor and Wnt signaling pathways Shaad M. Ahmad, Indiana State University, Stephen S. Gisselbrecht, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Pritha Bhattacharyya, Neal Jeffries, and Alan M. Michelson, National Institutes of Health

Cardiogenesis involves multiple biological processes acting in concert during development, a coordination achieved by the regulation of diverse cardiac genes by a finite set of transcription factors (TFs). Previous work from our laboratory identified the roles of two Forkhead TFs, Checkpoint suppressor homologue (CHES-1-like) and Jumeau (Jumu), in governing cardiac progenitor cell divisions in Drosophila by regulating Polo kinase activity. These TFs were also implicated in the regulation of numerous other cardiac genes. Here we show that these two Forkhead TFs play an additional and mutually redundant role in specifying the cardiac mesoderm (CM): eliminating the functions of both CHES- 1-like and jumu in the same embryo results in defective hearts with missing hemisegments. Our observations indicate that this process is mediated by the Forkhead TFs regulating the fibroblast growth factor receptor Heartless (Htl) and the Wnt receptor Frizzled (Fz), both previously known to function in cardiac progenitor specification: CHES-1-like and jumu exhibit synergistic genetic interactions with htl and fz in CM specification, thereby implying function through the same genetic pathways, and transcriptionally activate the expression of both receptor-encoding genes. Furthermore, ectopic overexpression of either htl or fz in the mesoderm partially rescues the defective CM specification phenotype seen in embryos doubly homozygous for mutations in jumu and CHES-1-like. Together, these data emphasize the functional redundancy that leads to robustness in the cardiac progenitor specification process mediated by Forkhead TFs regulating the expression of signaling pathway receptors, and illustrate the pleiotropic functions of this class of TFs in different aspects of cardiogenesis.

Chemistry

Investigation of the Substrate Specificity of L-Idonate Dehydrogenase By Site-directed Mutagenesis (Poster) Chelsea M. McCurdy and Stephen A. Steiner, Hanover College

Plants contain a set of dehydrogenase enzymes which play important roles in a variety of metabolic pathways. The enzyme L-idonate dehydrogenase (IdDH) has been identified in several commercially important plant species, including grape, apple, and peach. It appears that IdDH is an evolutionary variant of the more ubiquitous sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) enzyme. Functionally, IdDH differs from SDH by showing no activity toward the sugar alcohol sorbitol as a substrate, but rather shows significant activity with the sugar acid L-idonate as a substrate. Genetic analysis has revealed several specific amino acid differences between these enzymes, including position 42 where SDH shows a Tyr and IdDH shows a His. This difference may account for the variation in substrate specificity. To investigate this possibility, site-directed mutagenesis was performed using the Invitrogen GENEART kit to substitute a thymidine nucleotide for a cytidine, changing Tyr-42 to His-42, in the IdDH gene from Vitis vinifera (grape). The appearance of colonies on ampicillin plates indicated successful mutation and transformation. Nine of these colonies were picked and cultured for further analysis. Successful mutation of the IdDH gene will be confirmed by restriction enzyme cleavage. The IdDH enzyme will be expressed, isolated, and assayed for altered substrate specificity.

A Chemical Analysis of Berberine: Solubility and Decomposition Studies (Poster) Brian Gabet, University of Saint Francis, Teresa Beam, Manchester University, College of Pharmacy

Berberine, a quaternary isoquinoline alkaloid, is a natural, plant derived product that has been used in Eastern medicine for centuries because of its anti-diarrheal and anti-gastroenteritis properties. It has also shown some potential for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-diabetic properties. While berberine is known to dissolve well in methanol and a few other lightly acidic organic solvents, there is not much quantitative data involving its solubility and decomposition properties in solvents commonly used in gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). In the present study, we have shown that berberine is soluble in methanol, however, it also decomposes quickly in this solvent. We have also tested the decomposition of berberine in ethanol, acetone, 1-butanol, 2-propanol, and ethyl ether, and have attempted to quantitatively measure them using GC-MS. An understanding of these decomposition and solubility properties is essential before synthesizing new berberine-based compounds for structure-activity studies.

A Research Project for Freshman Chemistry Lab: Degradation of Pharmaceutical Pollutants (Poster) Ruth E. Nalliah, Huntington University

The presence of unmetabolized excreted pharmaceuticals in sewage is becoming an increasing world-wide problem in populated areas including Indiana, resulting in low levels of pharmaceuticals in drinking water. Numerous degradation processes for pharmaceuticals are discussed in the chemical literature; however, much work remains with regard to finding substances that might safely and effectively degrade excreted pharmaceuticals by reaction processes initiated with a drop-in added to the toilet bowl. At Huntington University we have engaged freshman chemistry students in monitoring the degradation of acetaminophen, ibuprofen, caffeine, salicylic acid, and quinine via UV absorption spectroscopy, in the presence of non-chlorinated reagents such as sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate monohydrate, hydrogen peroxide/Fe2+, oxone/Fe2+, sodium hydrosulfite, concentrated sodium hydroxide, and commercial substances containing these reagents. A challenge with these reagents is that a number of them exhibit interfering absorbances in the UV. Our work in method development shows that extraction of the pharmaceuticals into dichloromethane may lead to false positives for drug degradation in the aqueous phase; however, difference spectroscopy may be a viable method for monitoring degradation using simple spectrophotometers. As a broader test, the FD&C food dyes Red #40, Yellow #5, and Blue #1 were surveyed for decoloration with the listed reagents, and all of the reagents except sodium hydroxide were found to begin degrading at least one food dye. Because of the efficacy and environmental advantages of sodium percarbonate, further studies will involve the use of sodium percarbonate with suitable catalysts.

Anion-binding properties of tetrazolones and tetrazolethiones (Poster) Hanyang Zhou, Jerry Sheu and Sundeep Rayat, Department of Chemistry, Ball State University

Tetrazoles have wide applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry. For instance, parent tetrazole exhibits excellent anion recognition properties, and therefore, may show promise in the development of new drugs for the treatment of diseases as well as in the monitoring and removal of ions in biology and environment. We are interested in studying the anion-binding capabilities of derivatives of tetrazole. Specifically, we are synthesizing a series of 1-phenyltetrazol-5-one and 1-phenyltetrazole-5-thiones substituted with electron donating and electron withdrawing groups, and investigating their ability to bind anions by using UV spectroscopy. We use Job’s method of continuous variation to determine the stoichiometry of binding with different anions of varying basicity, which is subsequently followed by the determination of the strength of the binding interaction. These results will be presented and discussed.

Combinatorial Synthesis of Candidate Antibiotics Aaron Graber, ByeonChan Lim, Hayley Mann, Jacob Roth, Zachary Zimmerman, Caleb Derstine, Deeksha Pagar, Doug Schirch

The development of novel antibiotics is an ongoing necessity. The Distributed Drug Design (D3) project (http://d3.iupui.edu/) developed at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), integrates computational design, organic synthesis and biological analysis to disperse the process of drug discovery among multiple universities. Students at Goshen College participating in the project used solid-state combinatorial synthesis to prepare N-acylated derivatives of amino acids that are analogs of a subset of known antibiotic compounds. The synthesized compounds are screened for biological activity.

Comparative Studies of Efficiency of Endogenous Organo-Sulfur Antioxidants (Poster) Kenzie Glassburn and Jake Yagodinski, Franklin College

Comparative studies of the antioxidant potential of various organosulfur compounds such as cysteine, cysteamine, and methionine were performed using bromate as an oxidant. UV-Vis spectrophotometry was utilized to study the reaction kinetics of the organosulfur compound oxidation by bromate through monitoring the formation of bromine as an indicator of complete oxidation of the sulfur center. Reaction kinetics results indicate that cysteine reacts the fastest, followed by cysteamine and then methionine. Kinetics data also revealed that an increase in substrate concentration resulted in not only an increase in the production of bromine, but also an increase in reaction rate. Elucidation of the reaction mechanisms and the role of the S-oxidation intermediates, for all the organosulfur compounds under study are currently on-going. In the case of methionine oxidation, there is strong evidence to suggest that the oxidation of the methionine sulfoxide intermediate is the rate limiting step. On-going studies include product and intermediate identification to confirm the mechanistic pathways through which these compounds react.

Composite Films of Chitosan and Polyvinyl alcohol (Poster) John W. Luckmann, IUPUI/IUPUC (undergraduate student), James D. Mendez, PhD, IUPUC (faculty research mentor)

Chitin is a polysaccharide, similar to cellulose, made up of repeating units of N-Acetylglucosamine and is the second most abundant biopolymer in the world. Cellulose is a strong and sturdy polymer, as can be seen by noting how much weight is held up by trees hundreds of years old. The differences present in chitin (a -OH bond is replaced by –NHCOCH3) increase hydrogen bonding creating a more mechanically robust polymer. One possible use for strong polymers is 3D printing. When some of the repeating units are deacetylated to glucosamine it is called chitosan and becomes more water soluble. This water solubility allows us to incorporate it into other water soluble polymers, starting with Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH). Films containing varying amounts of PVOH and chitosan of varying degrees of acetylation show promise as a composite material and the possibility of creating chitosan based filaments for 3D printing.

Construction of Nucleic Acid Nano-Architectures Based on Flexible tetra-U Linking Module (Poster) My N. Bui and Emil F. Khisamutdinov, Department of Chemistry, Ball State University

The progression in the field of RNA nanotechnology involves the design and synthesis of artificial RNA nanoparticles with wide spectra of applications in pharmacology, medicine, biomaterials, electronics etc. The unique properties of RNA molecules to form non-canonical, local or long- range interactions result in a large library of structural motifs that can be used for RNA nanoparticle construction. Naturally occurring RNA 3D motifs have been used previously in architectonics, which is a computer-aided approach for design artificial RNA nanostructures in a controllable fashion. However, most of the natural RNA modules fold into desired 3D conformations only if certain conditions are satisfied, e.g. pH, presence of mono- and/or divalent ions, and proteins. Here, we report the design and characterization of a variety of RNA nanoarchitectures designed in silico using an artificial tetra U-linking RNA module. This flexible RNA building block can be used to design RNA nanoparticles with a variety of geometrical shapes, utilizing an approach previously reported by Khisamutdinov, et. al. 2015. We found that the RNA nanoarchitectures, including a triangle, square, pentagon and hexagon, possess similar self-assembly properties in vitro, with an individual nanoparticle yield of 65.0 ± 6.0 %. The measured melting points by means of UV-thermal denaturation resulted in similar TM values of 80.0 ± 2.0 °C. We further demonstrated that nanoparticles can be assembled with high efficiency, either from a mixture of DNA and RNA or from DNA strands alone. This study demonstrates the importance of artificial RNA building blocks for the RNA nanotechnology field.

Differential Effects of Heavy Metals Ions on Recombinant Green-Fluorescent Protein (GFP) (Poster) Brandon Wysong, Lana Serikof, Hisako Masuda, Department of Chemistry, Indiana University Kokomo

Previously, heavy metal salts are shown to interact with proteins and destabilizes structures. In this study, the effects of various heavy inorganic metallic salts on denaturation of the purified GFP protein was examined both qualitatively and quantitatively. The GFP was shown to be immediately denatured by AgNO3, Fe(NO3)3, and CuSO4, and the GFP was shown to be denatured by Zn(C2H3O2)2 over time, as indicated by the presence of a heavy precipitate. However, no denaturation was observed upon the addition of the Co(C2H3O2)2. Our results indicate a high degree of specificity involved in the denaturation of GFP and that each heavy inorganic metallic salts interact differently with GFP.

Exploring the reactivity of oxypyridinium salt derivatives with oxygen nucleophiles Caleb C. Culy and Philip A. Albiniak, Ball State University

The reagent 2-benzyloxy-1-methylpyridinium triflate (BnOPT) was designed in the mid-2000’s to serve as a benzyl transfer agent for the protection of alcohols under neutral conditions. Preliminary evidence supported an SN1-like mechanism for the formation of benzyl ethers with BnOPT. In an SN1 reaction, the rate is solely dependent on carbocation formation as the rate limiting step. Therefore, the benzylation of weaker nucleophiles, such as carboxylic acids or activated aromatic rings were accomplished upon mild warming in the presence of BnOPT. To further investigate the utility of this molecule, the limitations of the group being transferred must be evaluated. Benzyl carbocations demonstrate high stability; whereas, allyl carbocations are less stabilized due to less resonance delocalization of the formal charge. This discussion focuses on two key components. First, the development of an allyl transferring oxypyridinium salt was pursued, and its ability to convert carboxylic acids to the corresponding allyl esters was investigated and optimized. This process will provide a new method for facile formation of allyl esters, and will provide further insight into the mechanism of transfer for these reagents. While performing optimization reactions for the formation of allyl esters, several observations were made that suggest that the mechanism may have SN2-like characteristics. The discrepancy between the proposed mechanisms for the formation of benzyl esters and allyl esters using oxypyridinium salts indicates the need for an in-depth rate study of these reactions, which is the second key component of this project. A discussion of the development of the experimental design and the results of an initial rate study for the reaction of BnOPT and alcohols will be included.

Immunochemiluminescence Detection of Chicken Muscle Lactate Dehydrogenase Using a Digital SLR Camera Noah Cutshaw, and Dan Hammond, Taylor University

Our project had two major goals: 1. Develop a Western Blotting procedure specific for chicken muscle Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH).2. Develop a procedure to use a conventional digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera to visualize the faint chemiluminescence that results from the Western Blotting.Chicken muscle LDH is a good model system for use in educational institutions for Biochemistry lab courses because it is easily obtained from chicken breast purchased at the local grocery store. The isolation and characterization of chicken muscle LDH illustrate many important procedures commonly used in biochemistry. Western blotting is a very important tool in modern biochemistry and molecular biology. It is a very sensitive method for detecting the presence of a particular protein in a complex mixture of proteins using antibodies. There are no commercially available antibodies that have been raised specifically for chicken LDH. Fortunately, there is a great deal of homology (similarity in amino acid sequence) between mammal LDH and chicken LDH, so some antibodies produced against a mammal LDH should also work against chicken LDH. Part of our project is to find one or more antibodies that, although produced for another organism, will also bind to chicken muscle LDH. The most sensitive way to visualize the protein-antibody complex is via chemiluminescence. A very sensitive camera is needed to capture these tiny specks of light. Thus, very expensive CCD cameras have been used for this purpose because they are the most sensitive type of camera. However, consumer grade DSLR cameras are getting better and it seems plausible that they could be used to observe chemiluminescence. We achieved promising results with dot blots of isolated chicken muscle LDH.

In-silico Design and Experimental Validation of Boolean Logic Gates Based on Fluorogenic RNA Aptamer Emil F. Khisamutdinov, Seth G. Abels, Ball State University

RNA aptamers that bind a nonfluorescent dye and activate its fluorescence are highly sensitive, nonperturbing, and convenient probes in the field of synthetic biology. These artificial aptamers operate as molecular nanoswitches that alter folding and function in response to ligand binding. We demonstrate a computational approach for designing “smart” RNA nanodevices based on malachite green (MG) binding RNA aptamer whose fluorescence output is controlled by binding DNA oligonucleotide inputs. Four types of RNA switches possessing AND, OR, NAND, NOR Boolean logic functions were created in modular form, allowing binding affinity of the chromophore to be changed without altering the RNA aptamer core sequence. All computationally designed RNA devices were synthesized and experimentally tested in vitro. The ability to design smart nanodevices based on RNA binding aptamers offers new ways to engineer ligand-sensing regulatory circuits, nucleic acid detection systems, gene control elements and a promising complement to silicon technology.

Investigation of Magnetic Particles as a Remediation Tool for Organic Dyes in the Presence of Colloidal Aggregation Tyler A. Williams, Jenny Lee, Cory A. Diemler, and Mahamud Subir, Ball State University

Synthetic compounds are ubiquitous contaminants found in industrial and urban wastewaters. Conventional treatment methods often fail to effectively remove man-made contaminants, thus there is a need to find new tools to remediate these potentially harmful pollutants. Adsorbents utilizing magnetic particles have the potential to provide efficient and effective remediation of polluted water. However, systematic investigations involving the binding of industrial dyes onto the surface of magnetic colloids in aqueous solution are scarce. In our study, we used second harmonic generation (SHG) spectroscopy and a separation technique based on UV-Vis spectroscopy to examine the adsorption of malachite green (MG+), an industrial organic cation and aquatic pollutant, onto the surface of –COOH functionalized polystyrene magnetic particles (m-PSCs). SHG adsorption isotherms of m-PSCs indicate significant aggregation induced by the adsorption of MG+ onto m-PSCs. Dye induced aggregation was corroborated by separating the MG–m-PSC complex with a magnetic separator and analyzing the bulk aqueous solution with UV-Vis spectroscopy. Applying a modified Langmuir model that we developed, we are able to characterize the binding in the presence of aggregation. The binding equilibrium constant and adsorption Gibbs free energy of MG+ onto the surface of m-PSCs are 1.1 (± 0.3) × 10^7 and – 40 (± 1) kJ mol^-1, respectively. Additionally, we will present results that demonstrate the efficiency of m-PSCs at removing MG+ from aqueous solution decreases as dye concentration increases. Although these results indicate that m-PSCs are not efficient at remediating MG+ from aqueous solution at high MG+ concentrations due to aggregation, we find that SHG can serve as a detection tool for colloidal aggregation.

Large scale structural rearrangement provides dual control over the catalytic and membrane binding activity of a bacterial serine hydrolase R. Jeremy Johnson, Mackenzie Smith, Whitney Hart, Perry Rabin, Butler University

The serine hydrolase FTT258 from the highly pathogenic bacterium Francisella tularensis exists in distinct open and closed conformations. Based on comparison to the homologous human acyl protein thioesterase, this large structural rearrangement was proposed to provide connected control over the catalytic and membrane binding activity of FTT258. Using comprehensive mutagenesis and differential kinetic and membrane-binding measurements, we determined the contribution of a key flexible loop to controlling the structural rearrangement and biological activity of FTT258. For the catalytic activity, a centrally located tryptophan residue (Trp66) was deemed essential, with the resulting alanine variant showing complete ablation of enzyme activity. Other amino acids localized near this essential tryptophan residue, including Met63, Arg64, Tyr67, and Asp68, also significantly decreased the hydrolase activity, indicating a critical target area for controlling the enzyme activity and structural rearrangement of FTT258. Combinatorial variants containing the Trp66 substitution with other important residues showed enzymatic activity similar to the Trp66 variant alone, suggesting a controlling role for this residue. Liposome-binding experiments with the tryptophan variants did not however show significant changes in membrane binding activity. Instead, removal of a proximal positively-charged arginine residue (Arg64) significantly decreased the membrane binding activity of FTT258. Together, the conformational change in FTT258 dually controlled the catalytic and membrane binding activity of FTT258, but through distinct subsections of a key flexible loop.

Measuring kinetics and substrate specificity of the mycobacterial esterase LipN employing latent fluorophore substrates Stephanie Raynor, R. Jeremy Johnson, Geoffrey C. Hoops, Butler University

Mycobacterium ulcerans is the causative agent of Buruli ulcer, a tropical skin disease that affects thousands of individuals annually. Recent studies have revealed that lipolytic enzymes are involved in the pathogenicity processes of mycobacteria and could be potential targets for novel antibiotics. LipN is one proposed serine hydrolase in Mycobacterium ulcerans that contains the conserved α/β hydrolase protein fold and utilizes the common catalytic triad of serine, histidine, and aspartate/glutamate. The physiological substrate and the residues essential to substrate recognition of LipN have not yet been determined. In this study, LipN was cloned into a pET28a plasmid and was overexpressed in an E. colihost. Ni- affinity chromatography was used to purify LipN from the E. coli cell lysate. The substrate specificity of LipN was then elucidated using enzymatic assays utilizing a library of 15 latent fluorophore substrates. Steady state enzymatic kinetic data were fit to Michaelis-Menten curves; kcat, KM, and kcat/KM values were evaluated to gain a better understanding of the global relationships between ligands and the binding pocket of LipN. Based on the analysis of these substrates’ Michaelis-Menten characteristics, LipN showed a strong preference for two to four carbon chain substrates and ether substrates. The di(methoxyacetoxymethyl ether) substrate showed the highest enzymatic activity yielding a catalytic efficiency of 880.7 + 63.9 M^-1s^-1.

New Proposed Route to Thiapentalenes (Poster) Jessica Lokotar, Grace College, Grant Carlson, Grace College, Nathan Tice, University of Findlay, Chad Snyder, Grace College

Metal ŋ5-cyclopenta[c]thienyl complexes are of significant interest in both catalysis and materials chemistry (i.e. polymerization). These relatives of the low-band-gap polymer polybenzo[2,3-c]thiophene show great promise due to their unique electronic properties as environmentally stable, conductive polymers and as energy-efficient, light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Recently, cyclopenta[c]thiophenes have received further attention as studies have shown that these molecules have potential as photodynamic anticancer agents particularly effective against leukemia cells. The current method of synthesizing these compounds is lengthy, costly, and has a very low yield. Our group has developed an alternative synthetic route fusing making use of traditional organic chemistry reactions (SN2, PCC oxidation, LAH reduction, Dieckmann condensation, etc), proven to consistently work in the laboratory. This new research route is of great value not only as “green” chemistry but also highlights many of the named reactions organic chemistry students learn in the classroom.

Novel Synthesis of Lavendamycin Analogues and Related Quinoline-5,8-Diones Raheleh Ravanfar, Jenny Nguyen and Robert E. Sammelson*, Department of Chemistry, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana

Lavendamycin is a quinoline-5,8-dione antitumor agent with a pentacyclic structure including the 7-aminoquinoline-5,8- dione and the indolopyridine (β-carboline) moieties. Lavendamycin was isolated and structurally determined by Doyle et al. (1981) and Balitz et al. (1982) from the fermentation broth of Streptomyces lavendulae. Despite the interest in lavendamycin as an antitumor agent, this agent was precluded from preclinical development due to its poor aqueous solubility and its toxicity toward normal human cells. Lavendamycin has been the focus of several synthetic studies to elucidate the structural features that are required for its cytotoxic activity and to develop improved analogues with potent antitumor properties and lower animal toxicity. The purpose of the present study is to synthesize new lavendamycin analogues by changing the functionality, especially at C2 position of the quinoline-5,8-dione, and investigate the new moieties reactivity with the NQO1 enzyme. Therefore, 7-N-acylamidoquinoline-5,8-dione-2-carboxaldehyde oxime was synthesized in 7 steps from commercially available 8-hydroxy-2-methyl quinolone. 7-N-(acetamido, propylamido, butyramido and isobutyramido)-5,8-dione quinolone-2-carboxaldehyde oxime were synthesized through the nitration, reduction-acylation, oxidation and then oxime step. The new analogues were characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and IR. Moreover, the biological activities were investigated in order to compare the toxicity profile and antitumor activity.

Photocatalytic Synthesis of β-Cabroline Derivatives: Effect of the Preparation of Platinized Titanium Dioxide Catalysts Joshua Smith, Colby Adolph, Tristan Maxson, Jake Werth, Christopher Uyeda, and Tykhon Zubkov Ball State University and Purdue University

Investigation of modified titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles was performed to determine their efficiency as photocatalysts in a modified Pictet-Spengler reaction. In the Pictet-Spengler reaction, a β-arylethylamine, such as tryptamine, undergoes a condensation with an aldehyde or ketone in strong acidic conditions. This reaction can be considered as a special case to the Mannich Reaction. Current modifications to the Pictet-Spengler reaction include the absence of ketone/aldehyde and the use of neutral anaerobic conditions. Platinum was photodeposited on TiO2 under various conditions to improve selectivity and yield of norharmane (β-carbolines) derivatives. Materials were characterized by electron microscopy (TEM) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP-OES). Products were identified and quantified by gas chromatography (GC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). The current modified Pictet-Spengler reaction results in two products; one that is an alkylation of the ethyl amine and the other that is the norharmane derivative. High selectivity and moderate yields have been achieved, but vary with prepared catalysts. Exploration and optimization is being continued between Ball State University and Purdue University.

Photolysis of p-Nitrophenolate at the air-water interface as Investigated by Second Harmonic Generation Spectroscopy (Poster) Margaret Schmits, Daniel Headley, Mahamud Subir, Ball State University

Phenol-based aquatic contaminants, such as p-nitrophenolate (p-NP–), are known to adsorb at the air-water interface. They can also undergo photolysis when exposed to ultraviolet light. While the solution-phase photolysis of p-NP– has been previously characterized, the photo-degradation of p-NP– at the air-water interface has not been thoroughly investigated. We demonstrate that the surface photolysis of p-NP– can be probed using second harmonic generation (SHG) spectroscopy. In this poster we report the photochemistry of p-NP– at the solution surface and compare it to its photochemistry in the bulk as determined from UV-vis spectroscopy. Preliminary results from the SHG indicate the rate of photodegradation at the surface is faster for p-NP– than its rate in the bulk solution. We will further discuss the challenges associated with surface photochemistry, in particular with respect to distinct rates of degradation observed as a function of molecular orientation at the planar surface.

Preparation of Nickel Tungstate (NiWO4) Nanoparticles and Characterization with Electrochemical Methods in Combination with Mott-schottky Theory (Poster) Seyyed Amirhossein Hosseini, Hossein Farsi, and Zhihai Li, Ball State University

Nickel tungstate is an interesting semiconductor for application in solar cell owing to its low band gap1, high mechanical stability and abundant oxygen sites (4 oxygen/Ni-W) for dye molecule absorption. Nanoparticle nickel tungstate has been synthesized with different methods including solid state2, direct mechanical rout3 and standard ceramic rout4. In current study nickel tungstate has been synthesized with different particle size distribution using co-precipitation5 method (N1) and in microemulsion medium in presence of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as surfactant (N2). Synthesized samples were examined using XRD, TEM and DRS methods. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy method in combination with mott-schottky theory has been applied for determination of electronic specification of all samples. Furthermore, light transformation efficiency of samples for application in solar cell has been studied using gratzel two- electrode cell.

Preparation, characterization and investigations of nanostructured cobalt titanate prepared by a modified sol-gel method Hossein Farsi1,2 Shokufeh Moghiminia,1 Fariba Madizadeh,1 and Zhihai Li2, 1Department of Chemistry, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran, 2Department of Chemistry, Ball State University

Nanostructured semiconductors have attracted the research focuses because of their wide range of applications containing catalysis, photocatalysis, photovoltaics,energy storing and converting materials and so on. In this study, nanostructured CoTiO3 was prepared by a low temperature modified sol-gel method. X-Ray Diffraction and transmission electron microscopy were used for characterization of crystal structure and morphology of prepared materials. A crystallite size of 57 nm for cobalt titanate and a nanoparticle size smaller than 70 nm were obtained for prepared samples. Using UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and Mott-Schottky analysis, the energy band structures of nanostructured CoTiO3 were determined and its cyclic voltammograms were interpreted in terms of its energy band structure. Finally, its ability in photodegradation of methylene blue as an organic pollutant was investigated.

Repurposing Obsolete or Underutilised Equipment in the General Chemistry Laboratory: Photometric Titrimetry A J C L Hogarth, Department of Chemistry, Ohio Dominican University, Columbus, OH

The Spectronic 20 spectrophotometer has been a staple in undergraduate laboratories since the late 1960s but is now officially obsolete. The device has been replaced by the Spectronic 200 or, in many cases, modular technology, for example, Vernier or Pasco equipment. Potentially this leaves many Spectronic 20s available for repurposing. This paper will describe one such use to which a Spectronic 20 can be dedicated: photometric titrimetry. An exploration of the literature indicates that such titrations can be more sensitive than the equivalent visual titrations, can tackle more than one analyte in the same titration, and can provide satisfactory end-points for titrations which have difficult-to-see visual end- points. With some simple modifications to the conventional Spectronic 20 to allow it to accommodate larger volume cells, and the addition of continuous titrant delivery and output recording systems if desired, the apparatus can be quite useful. Examples of investigations are: copper(II) with EDTA, acid-base using Bromothymol Blue, and self-indicating redox titrations using cerium(IV).

Semiconductor-Mediated Photodegradation of Model Contaminants: Comparing the Performance of WS2 and TiO2 at Different Wavelengths of Light (Poster) Nicole Woodall and Tykhon Zubkov, Ball State University

Semiconductor-mediated photocatalysis is defined as chemical reactions at the surface of a semiconductor when exposed to light. This reaction can be used for photocatalytic oxidation and the degradation of unwanted chemicals. There is an ongoing search for materials that can harness visible light from the solar spectrum. Titanium dioxide, TiO2, a widely used photocatalyst, is only photocatalytically active under violet to ultraviolet light. Tungsten sulfide, a layered transition metal material, is commonly used in the bulk form for hydrodesulfurization and solid lubrication. Being a narrow-band semiconductor, WS2 absorbs visible light, but it is photocatalytically inactive due to small redox potentials of photoexcited electrons and holes. When WS2 is dispersed on the nanometer scale, quantum confinement widens the band gap and activates the transfer of photoexcited electrons and holes onto molecules. This creates a possibility for photocatalysis under visible light irradiation. WS2 nanoslabs and rutile TiO2 were irradiated under various wavelengths of light and their activity was compared in photodegradation of model contaminants, such as methylene blue, in aqueous solutions in hopes of finding a superior photocatalyst.

Spectroscopic Analysis of the Kinetics of Host-Guest Chemistry (Poster) Charles Sayger, Benjamin Averill, Kelsey Larson, Miroslava Repak, and Jennifer Holt, Valparaiso University

Host-guest chemistry refers to the chemistry in which a host and a guest molecule come together to form an inclusion complex. These complexes are utilized in numerous fields, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and cosmetics. This study focuses on the kinetic and thermodynamic behavior of a guest molecule, Brooker’s merocyanine, in β-cyclodextrin and its different derivatives (the hosts) at a fundamental level in an attempt to increase stability of the complexes. UV-Vis spectroscopy was used to study the kinetic stability of Brooker’s merocyanine’s unique, energy dependent isomerization pathway inside the cavity of the host molecule and in solution. It was found that when the guest molecule is in acidic conditions, it will isomerize more quickly from the trans form to the cis form when inside the cavity compared to solution; also, the cyclodextrin derivatives showed minimal differences on the rate of isomerization. Under basic conditions, it is well known that the guest molecule will isomerize from the cis form to the trans form with a required input of energy while in solution; however, we found that no additional UV energy is needed for isomerization in complex. Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to study the thermodynamic stability of this system to determine how well the Brooker’s merocyanine interacts with different cyclodextrin derivatives.

Surface Properties of p-Nitrophenol and p-Nitrophenolate at the air-water interface as Investigated by Second Harmonic Generation Spectroscopy Daniel Headley, Mahamud Subir, Ball State University

The interface between two phases, such as liquid-gas interface, is ubiquitous. For example, approximately 70% of planet earth is air/water interface. Therefore understanding molecular behavior at the air/water interface is of fundamental and practical importance in the realm of environmental and atmospheric sciences. Of particular interest is the adsorption of phenolic compounds, a common aquatic contaminant, at the aqueous surface. Previous studies have shown that not only phenol but its conjugate anion exhibits an affinity for the air/aqueous interface at basic pH. In this study, we show that p- nitrophenolate has a higher affinity for the air/aqueous interface compared to phenolate under the same condition. We have used second harmonic generation (SHG) spectroscopy, a surface selective tool to obtain adsorption isotherms for p- nitrophenol and p-nitrophenolate. The preliminary values for the Gibbs free energy of adsorption are –27 +/– 1 kJ/mol and –15.9 +/– 0.2 kJ/mol, respectively. Furthermore, we have shown the average molecular orientation, with respect to the surface normal, varies with surface population for the anionic species but not the neutral p-nitrophenol. With increasing surface coverage, p-nitrophenolate appears to orient from upright position to a flat configuration at the air/aqueous interface.

The Impacts of Degree of Acetylation on Mechanical Strength and Thermal Properties of Chitin Based Films (Poster) Jessica Caldwell and James Mendez, Indiana University Purdue University Columbus

Chitin is an abundant polysaccharide that can be found in the shells and sloughs of many different organisms. Commercially, chitin is extracted from shrimp shells and used in applications as ranging from thickening agents to wound dressing. Previous studies in our group showed that other sources of chitin (lobster, crawfish, and the sloughs of cicada) can be extracted in a similar manner but produce chitin with varying properties. In this study, chitin from different source materials was studied to determine the difference in mechanical and thermal properties. The chitin to chitosan ratio of the resulting product was also altered through a reaction with sodium hydroxide at differing temperatures or for differing time periods. The differences in the degree of acetylation and source materials resulted in films with differing mechanical strength values but similar thermal properties.

Transition metal cation inhibition of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis esterase Rv0045c Geoffrey C. Hoops, Benjamin Lancaster, R. Jeremy Johnson

Rv0045c is an esterase enzyme from the infectious bacterium M. tuberculosis. We recently discovered that this serine hydrolase could be inhibited by divalent transition metal cations. The enzyme was overexpressed in E. coli and purified by affinity chromatography. Enzymatic activity of Rv0045c was monitored by hydrolysis of a novel fluorogenic substrate. Rv0045c was inhibited specifically by Cu, Zn, and Ni +2 cations. Negative control experiments with potassium and calcium cations did not show any significant inhibition of the enzyme. Removal of the N-terminal His-tag used for affinity purification did not negate the inhibitory effect of the metal cations.

Tuning the physiochemical properties of tetrazolones with co-crystallization (Poster) Hanyang Zhou and Sundeep Rayat

Cocrystallization involves interaction of two or more different compounds to form large supramolecular assemblies. The primary intermolecular interactions that hold cocrystals are hydrogen bonding, halogen bonding or π−π stacking. Cocrystallization is an effective method for improving and modifying the physiochemical solid-state properties of a compound. We are interested in studying and modifying the properties of 1-phenyltetrazolone and its derivatives by cocrystallization. These compounds have wide applications in many fields including medicine, industry and agriculture. However, tetrazoles and their derivatives are photochemically labile that present challenges for the aforementioned applications. Cocrystallization can offer promise in improving photochemical stability of the tetrazolones. With this goal in mind, we are synthesizing a series of 1-phenyltetrazolone and studying their cocrystallization with different aliphatic and aromatic carboxylic acids. We use IR spectroscopy for initial characterization of the cocrystal. The final confirmation is obtained from the X-ray structure analysis.

Understanding the Behavior of Brooker's Merocyanine in Host-Guest Complexes Jennifer S Holt, Benjamin Averill, Thomas Dabertin, Erica Gilbert, Carly Hanson, Kelsey Larson, Miroslava Repak, Charles Sayger, Valparaiso University

Materials in which a guest molecule is physically inserted into a host have a wide variety of practical applications from odor elimination to drug delivery to molecular separation techniques. These materials can range from a single host molecule, such as a cyclodextrin molecule, to large crystalline hosts, such as zeolites. This study focuses on the insertion and behavior of a particular guest molecule, known as Brooker’s merocyanine ([(1-methyl-4(1H)-pyridinylidene) ethylidene]-2,5-cyclohexadien-1-one), also known as stilbazolium betaine) into a variety of host structures in order to compare how this molecule behaves within different constrained environments. Specifically, Brooker’s merocyanine was inserted into the cavity of beta-cyclodextrin molecules and the channels of Zeolite L and the resulting complexes were studied using UV/Vis and/or fluorescence spectroscopy. The degree of dye loading under different conditions and isomerization behavior within the host were studied, and differences were compared between different host structures and also between different chemical modifications to the host structures. Incorporation into a host material also affected the unique photolytic/protolytic isomerization cycle of Brooker’s merocyanine in which one step only proceeds in one direction. The rate of isomerization for one of the steps in the cycle was greatly enhanced due to location within the constrained environment of the cavity. By understanding the fundamental behavior of these host-guest materials, other scientists will be able to optimize materials for practical applications in a variety of fields.

Utilizing 3D Printing to Create Models for Chemistry Education (Poster) Karen Smiar, Indiana University Purdue University Columbus, James Mendez, Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus

3D printing was used to create a series of three models of concepts from introductory chemistry that cannot be completely described with traditional molecular model kits and computer modeling. Utilizing 3D printing allows for the rapid design and manufacture of prototypes and models at a relatively low cost. All three of the models created are completely interactive allowing for a hands-on approach to chemistry education. The Bohr model we created can be completely disassembled and placed back together with electrons that can move freely around orbits. Our Hybridization model is colored coated to differentiate both atoms and bonds that can be taken apart to represent sp, sp2, and sp3 hybrid orbitals. We also created bond polarity models that show the mass difference between two like-sized molecules, which is fixed by changing the infill, and difference when forming a polar bond. Utilizing 3D printing is a viable method to create models of chemistry concepts that don’t currently exist and it is possible for students and faculty with very little CAD experience to design and print useful models.

Ecology

Flight and Acoustic Behavior of Indiana Bats Selecting Among Artificial Roost Types Julia Hoeh and Joy O’Keefe, Indiana State University

Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) roost characteristics are well documented; however, the way a population selects a primary roost among similar potential options is largely unknown. Studying flight and acoustic behaviors at new artificial roosts may shed light on this process. We studied roost choice by measuring frequency and type of behaviors at different artificial roost styles in three locations within the summer range of an Indiana bat maternity colony in Indiana. In March 2015 we erected three roost clusters (>0.8 km apart) in known summer foraging areas; each cluster contained three roost styles (rocket box, birdhouse, and modified bark mimic BrandenBark™). We conducted emergence counts (mean 4–5 nights/week/cluster), and recorded video and full spectrum acoustics simultaneously one night/week/cluster from mid-May to mid-August. Two rocket boxes became primary maternity roosts: Box043 was used heavily (3–210 bats) from 29 May– 22 July, while Box053 housed 1–101 bats from 18 July–15 Aug. Flight behaviors occur at all clusters, but types varied with cluster significance. In early summer acoustic and flight activity was 10-60X higher at the cluster containing Box043 than any other observed roost. In early July, flight activity increased at the cluster containing Box053; the bat population switched to Box053 one week later. Bats favored rocket box style roosts over birdhouse and modified BrandenBark™ roosts. These data show that a single population will shift from one primary roost to another over the course of the summer, behavior changes precede the population shift to a new roost, and behavior frequency and type vary across the season at primary roosts.

A Decade of Change in Cooper Woods, a Central Indiana Till-Plain Flatwoods Kemuel Badger, John Taylor, Don Ruch, Ahmed Hubini and Megan Crecelius. Ball State University

Cooper Woods is a seven hectare flat till-plain forest remnant in Delaware County, Indiana. The site had been subject to some grazing and limited timber harvest prior to the 1950s. Permanent monitoring plots were established and preliminary sampling to determine the appropriate plot size was completed in 2002. The permanent plots were resampled every two years. The overstory is dominated by Fraxinus spp. and Quercus spp. During the time of 2004-2014 Fraxinus spp. comprised approximately 40% of the total overstory stems and 40% of the total basal area. A comparison is made between Cooper Woods and the adjacent Skinner Woods. The impacts of the emerald ash borer were first noted in 2014 and have since depleted the overstory of Fraxinus spp.

A unique, long-term effort to study an Indiana bat maternity colony near the Indianapolis Airport Joy M. O’Keefe, Center for Bat Research, Outreach, and Conservation, Indiana State University

Since the late 1990s, the Center for Bat Research, Outreach, and Conservation has assisted in a long-term effort to monitor the status of a population of the federally endangered Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) near the Indianapolis International Airport in central Indiana. In compliance with the Endangered Species Act, the Indianapolis Airport Authority and US Fish and Wildlife Service implemented a series of proactive conservation and mitigation measures during a period of airport expansion in 1991. Early efforts included habitat protection and regular capture surveys. An Indiana bat colony was discovered in the mid-1990s. With daytime and nighttime radio telemetry efforts, we gained a better understanding of Indiana bat ecology, including population size and demographics, and roosting and foraging ecology. In the early 2000s, the Indianapolis Airport Authority, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and other agencies developed a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) to mitigate for additional development; the Airport Authority set aside almost 400 acres of land, planted thousands of trees, and funded outreach efforts and annual surveys in the area. The Indiana bat maternity colony has hovered around 150 bats since 1997 and at least seven other bat species are residents of the same protected areas. Indiana bats make annual migrations to the Airport site from caves 50-100 miles away in southern Indiana. Upon arrival, bats are faithful to both trees and artificial roosts in protected and unprotected areas. Data from this study has been used to manage for less studied Indiana bat populations in the eastern U.S. and has also informed us about community dynamics and the ecology of other bats that share the same landscape. It is remarkable that the species has been able to persist and be successful in the urbanized landscape surrounding the Indianapolis International Airport.

An examination of possible glacial effects on the genetic variation of Creek Chub (Semotilus atromaculatus) populations (Poster) Abigail Schnelker, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, Michael J. Blum, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Tulane University, Mark A. Jordan, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Creek chub (Semotilus atromaculatus) is a small, olive-brown minnow that occurs in small streams and rivers primarily in midwestern to eastern North America. Although the species is widespread and abundant, particularly in streams that have been modified by contemporary land use, much of its geographic range was recently glaciated. Post-glacial recolonization is expected to lead to the loss of genetic diversity as populations go through serial founder events. The main objective of our research is to examine this hypothesized loss in genetic diversity in formerly glaciated streams. We present analyses focused on the Little Miami River watershed in southwestern Ohio, a system that is bisected by the boundary of the Wisconsinan glacial maximum. Fish were sampled (n -= 2,311) at 12 formerly glaciated and 16 un-glaciated localities before being genotyped using eight microsatellite loci. Preliminary results suggest no difference in mean allelic diversity between glaciated and un-glaciated localities. Moreover, in spite of consistent evidence of differentiation among populations, there does not appear genetic differentiation associated with the glacial boundary. Further analyses will aim to assess the influence of contemporary land use on genetic variation and will include creek chub populations sampled in a watershed distant from the glacial boundary in northeastern Indiana.

Assessing predator detection and avoidance behavior of rusty crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) in the presence of hellbenders (Cryptobranchus allegeniensis) and smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) Paige Weldy, Erin Kenison, and Rod Williams, Purdue University

Predator prey dynamics are common in nature. Predators and prey may use visual, tactile, chemical, or a combination of cues to communicate. For prey living in a system with multiple predators, they must be able to detect, evaluate, and appropriately respond to perceived risk. Rusty crayfish are native to a riverine system where they are found in sympatry with smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) and Eastern Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus allegeniensis). We are interested 1) whether rusty crayfish alter their behavior in response to cues from these predators, 2) how behavioral responses may vary by predator, and 3) if prey responses are a function of crayfish size. We housed predators individually in 3 gallons of water for 42 hours, and fed them either a worm diet, or a crayfish diet. We utilized a 2x5 factorial design, with two sizes of crayfish, and five treatment groups (i.e., control, hellbender, bass, hellbender fed crayfish, and bass fed crayfish cues). For trials, we housed crayfish individually in 1-gallon bowls, and allowed them to acclimate for 12 hours. We collected and added 10 mL of cue to crayfish tanks, and recorded all freezing behavior, appendage movement, locomotion, and refuge use at one-minute intervals. This project will benefit future work investigating trophic interaction studies by providing insight on how crayfish interact with predators, and how they may behave if a predator is removed from a system.

Avian seed dispersal of native and non-native fruiting plants in a Northwest Indiana nature preserve Sylas Buller, Kathleen Hebble, and Laurie S. Eberhardt, Valparaiso University

Non-native fruiting plants can pose a major threat to native plants by competing for space and resources. Effective seed dispersal is a major determinant of successful invasion by non-native plants while at the same time competition for dispersal agents may be detrimental to native plant species. Avian frugivores disperse many fruiting plants and these birds play a critical role in spreading invasive species. An analysis of local bird feces along with fruit surveys were done at Meadowbrook Nature Preserve in Porter County, Indiana. Over the duration of the late summer and fall months of 2015, fecal samples were collected from perch traps placed in open fields adjacent to forest edges. Weekly fecal material collections from these traps were dissected and seeds were identified to species to determine what was dispersed by local birds. Fruit in the landscape was surveyed along the edges of the field to determine what types of fruits were available to birds. During the three weeks in October surrounding our landscape survey date, we observed a total of 608 seeds in our fecal traps, 99% of these were native and only 1% were from non-native species. When seed numbers were converted to fruit equivalents, we found 78% of fruits represented in the traps were Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquifolia) but only 1% of fruits in the landscape at this time were this species. 1% of the fruits represented in the fecal material were Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus), a non-native invasive species, while 48% of the fruits in the landscape at that time were oriental bittersweet. Overall, we found that birds preferentially eat native fruits even when they are not as prevalent in the landscape during mid-autumn. This could have negative consequences for certain non-native fall-fruiting plants and our results could have management implications for these problematic invasive plants.

Climate Effects on Radial Growth of Ash at Lakeside Laboratory, Iowa Kevin Jewett and David LeBlanc, Ball State University

The objective of this study was to determine which climate variables most strongly influence radial growth of ash (Fraxinus L.) species at the Lakeside Laboratory site in Iowa, near the northwest corner of the species range. Tree ring measurements were taken for 28 cores representing 14 trees sampled at the site. Measurements were correlated with monthly and seasonal values for climate variables including temperature, precipitation, and drought index. There was no indication that early wood formation was influenced by these climate variables. Latewood formation was significantly negatively correlated with spring temperatures and was positively correlated with precipitation in the previous winter and the current summer and Palmer drought index for the previous winter through the current summer. These correlations coefficients were compared with results from a previous study of growth-climate correlations for northern red oak (Quercus rubraL.) at a site 24 kilometers east of Lakeside Laboratory. Ash radial growth was more sensitive to spring temperatures while oak was more sensitive to summer temperature. Ash radial growth also showed a consistently higher correlation with precipitation and drought index than oak, though correlations for both species were significant. These results will be interpreted in the context of ash growth at the limit of its distribution.

Comparison of freshwater mussel communities from 1988 to 2015 in the Cedar Creek Watershed, Indiana (Poster) Ashley D. Taylor, Robert B. Gillespie, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, and Peter C. Smiley Jr., USDA- ARS Soil Drainage Research Unit, Columbus, OH

Out of the 300 genera of freshwater mussels (Unionidae) represented in North America, most species have shown declines in abundance and distribution largely due to human-mediated factors. This study compares current community composition, abundance and richness of mussels in Cedar Creek, Indiana with those in 1988 and 2005. In 2015, five sites in Cedar Creek and seven sites in agricultural tributaries were surveyed. Additionally, one headwater stream in Hillsdale County, MI was surveyed as a high-quality reference site. At each site, mussel surveys were performed using a combination of quadrat excavations (sixteen per site) and visual searches within a 200 meter stretch. From each quadrat, a quart of sediment was retained for sieve analysis. Physicochemical measurements, habitat analyses, and water quality data were collected concurrently with surveys. Fish communities were sampled using electrofishing to determine the presence of host species. Out of thirteen sites sampled, only six had live mussels. A total of ten species and 84 individuals were identified and measured. The reference and two Cedar Creek sites comprised almost 90% of the individuals found, with the furthest upstream Cedar Creek site having the greatest abundance (28). Only two agricultural ditch sites, close to the main stem of Cedar Creek had mussels, totaling six individuals. Lampsilis siliquoidea, found at four sites, was the most abundant and widespread species comprising 31% of the individuals found. Combined live mussel abundance at four Cedar Creek main stem sites showed a progressive decline from 168 to 110 to 56 individuals in 1988, 2005, and 2015 respectively. Additionally, since 1988, no live mussels have been recorded in Cedar Creek between Waterloo and Auburn, Indiana. To assess possible causes of declines, we will correlate instream habitat, physicochemical, and water quality variables with mussel abundance and richness.

Does Intra-population Niche Partitioning Lead to Variation in the Functional Role of Individuals within Generalist Populations? (Poster) Jacob L. Berl, Elizabeth A. Flaherty, and Robert K. Swihart, Purdue University

Animal populations often exhibit intra-population variation in resource use in response to heterogeneous resource availability. Resource partitioning among co-occurring individuals can result in variation in the collective ecological niche of a species or population (niche variation hypothesis). For example, seemingly 'generalist' animal populations (broad population-level niche) may in fact be comprised of a nested hierarchy of specialized individuals (narrow niche breadth), generalist individuals (wide niche breadth), or some combination of both. Intra-population niche variation is important because it can drive differences in individual fitness, population demography, and the functional role of individuals within populations. Populations of white-footed mice (Peromyscus lecopus), a 'generalist species, reach high densities in forested woodlots within Midwestern agro-ecosystems, yet individuals within these populations exhibit differing behavioral phenotypes. For example, some individuals remain resident within forested woodlots and edges, whereas others seasonally disperse into and reside within adjoining crop fields during the growing season. We seek to understand how individual variation in resource use (dietary niche) mediates the functional role (trophic position and diet breadth) of white- footed mice within agro-ecosystems. We used live-trapping and capture-mark-recapture techniques to estimate population densities and movements of white-footed mice among adjoining farmland habitats (forested woodlots, habitat edge, and agricultural fields). We will test for hierarchical variation (individual, sub-population [habitat-level] and population [site- level] in dietary niche using stable isotope analysis and Bayesian hierarchical mixing models. Our results will improve understanding of how intra-population niche variability can mediate differences in the functional role of individuals within heterogeneous ecosystems.

Does Moonlight Affect the Movement and Foraging Behavior of Bats in Indiana Flyways? Robert J. Arndt and Steven L. Lima, Indiana State University

Relatively little work exists on the ecology of bats, especially when one considers the effect of predators on bats: the field of predator-prey interactions has largely overlooked bats as a group. Our work thus addresses the influence of predators on the behavior of bats, specifically focusing on moonlight avoidance. Moonlight avoidance is the one topic that has received some attention in bats, but the results to date are mixed and contradictory, with evidence suggesting both its presence and absence in temperate bat species. To help clarify this situation, we examined the activity levels of bats of Indiana in north-south oriented power-line corridors that (under conditions of bright moonlight) create stark and clearly defined shaded and non-shaded microhabitats over the course of a single night. If our local insectivorous bats avoid moonlight while traveling and foraging, then they should show a clear preference for the shaded side of a corridor. However, it is possible that the insect prey of bats also seek shaded nocturnal microhabitats in an effort to avoid moonlight. Thus insect sampling was also conducted with respect to these microhabitats to determine whether there is a correlation between bat and insect movement. If both bats and insects seek shaded microhabitats during moonlit nights, then bats may merely be following their prey into the shade. However, if the bats prefer shaded microhabitats without the corresponding insect movement, then this would suggest that moonlight avoidance is an important determinant of the movements of bats. Results suggest that Midwestern bats do not preferentially choose to forage or travel in dark microhabitats within these power-line corridors, but further work and data on insects are needed to fully verify this result. The completion of this project has provided the clearest picture to date of moonlight avoidance behavior in temperate insectivorous bats.

Effect of native and non-native plantings in urban parking islands on diversity and abundance of birds, arthropods, and flower visitors Toni Boger and Deborah Marr, Indiana University South Bend

Considering the evolutionary history of plants when designing urban landscaping is not a widespread practice in cities. Although large-scale native plantings would be expected to increase biodiversity by increasing food available to herbivores and consequently higher trophic levels, it is not clear whether small-scale plantings would significantly affect biodiversity. In this study, we tested whether small-scale native and non-native ornamental urban plantings affected either arthropod or bird diversity. Bird species and abundance, arthropods, and flower visitors (Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera) were monitored in 6 parking lot islands landscaped with native plants and 6 parking lot islands with non-native ornamental plantings from June-August 2015 on the Indiana University South Bend campus located in South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana. We found higher bird species richness (4 more bird species) and higher bird abundance (6-8 times higher in July and August) in the native planting areas compared to non-native plantings. There was no significant difference in arthropod order richness between the two types of parking lot islands. However, arthropod abundance was significantly higher (2-3 times higher in July and August) in native plantings compared to non-native ornamental plantings. Most importantly, abundance of flower visitors was three times greater in native areas compared to non-native areas. Overall, our results suggest that even small-scale use of native plants in landscaping increases biodiversity by supporting higher abundance of arthropods, flower visitors, and birds.

Effects of Woody Biomass Harvests on a Population of Plethodontid Salamanders in Southeast Indiana (Poster) Jasmine Peele, Courtney Nix, Patrick Ruhl, Rob Chapman, and Patrick Zollner, Purdue University

Biomass harvesting removes unmarketable vegetative material from timber harvests for use as cellulosic bioenergy, leaving only leaf litter. Given the importance of down woody debris to wildlife such as red-backed salamanders (Plethodon cinereus) we hypothesize such biomass harvests will negatively affect salamander populations. To test this we set up coverboard arrays at 10 treatment sites (mean 3.29 ha, range 2.35-4.61 ha) with varying degrees of biomass harvesting at the Southeast Purdue Agricultural Center (SEPAC) in Jennings County, Indiana. We monitored salamander artificial cover object arrays within each treatment from spring 2012 to fall 2015 and marked all salamanders with visible implant elastomers (VIEs). Using Program MARK and Pollock’s robust design we set up models, with capture and recapture probabilities, survival, and emigration and immigration varying with time. We used Akaike’s information criterion (AIC) to determine which model best fit the data and that model’s resulting abundance and survival estimates. We then used these population estimates for each site in a multivariate linear regression to compare salamander abundance and survival with amount of down coarse woody debris, leaf litter depth, and moisture. Our results are consistent with established understanding of the microhabitat needs of red-backed salamanders. It is important to consider that our research only tracked the response of salamander populations during the years immediately following biomass harvest while there was still legacy woody debris on the ground from natural sources in all of our sites. With the passage of time the differences in available woody debris among these locations will undoubtedly diverge more. Given our observations, it is likely that the impacts of biomass harvest on these salamander populations will increase as time passes.

Evaluating seasonal and geographic diet variation in North American river otters (Lontra canadensis) in Indiana Sabrina Schuler, Renee Wickliffe, Sarah Meronk, Casey Day, Patrick Zollner, Purdue University

The food habits of river otters (Lontra canadensis) in Indiana play a major role in the trophic dynamics of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. No research has been conducted in Indiana to evaluate otter diet since their reintroduction in the mid-1990’s. Studies in other locations have indicated that composition of otter diet varies both seasonally and geographically and is dependent on prey availability. The goal of our study was to determine what factors affect otter feeding habits in Indiana (e.g., season, geographical region, presence of Asian carp). We conducted gross fecal analysis from 772 scat samples collected from December 2013 through December 2015 from 3 regions in Indiana to determine frequency of occurrence of prey items. We found that prey items vary seasonally and geographically in otter diet. We found that crayfish dominated otter diet during spring (71.7%) and summer (80.0%), but fish was the primary prey source in fall (86.5%) and winter (89.7%). Centrarchidae (e.g. Lepomis spp., Micropterus spp.) was the most heavily preyed fish family, both within and among regions (51.6%). Otter diet from the southern region contained more crayfish than other regions, a likely result of crayfish availability due to warmer climate. The diversity of otter diet reflects the diversity of prey in the systems they inhabit, and likely fluctuates with prey availability.

Filial Cannibalism in Spottail Darters Includes the Targeted Removal of Infected Eggs James Bandoli, University of Southern Indiana

The ubiquity of freshwater molds makes them important sources of disease in aquatic organisms and their eggs, and has selected for defense mechanisms in fishes and amphibians. Previous studies have shown that, among fishes, the presence of nest-guarding males can reduce egg losses due to infection; however, how much infection males encounter and whether they actively target infected eggs or consume them during cannibalism for other reasons has not been investigated. In 2012 and 2013 I artificially raised broods of spottail darter (Etheostoma squamiceps) eggs to determine whether the potential rate of egg loss to infection was significant enough to select for the targeting of infected eggs. Broods were inspected daily and infected eggs removed; infections occurred across the broods and throughout the 11-13 days of development. Egg loss due to infection was significant and varied between years, with concomitant reductions in fry production. In a separate laboratory study, In a 2015 study found that 10 male spottail darters consumed both healthy and Saprolegnia-infected eggs, but half of the males consumed infected eggs at rates significantly greater than expected by chance. The results show that Saprolegnia infection is significant and temporally variable, and that guarding males can respond by non-randomly and consuming infected eggs.

Foraging Habits and Space Use of Endangered Bats at the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment Timothy Divoll and Joy O’Keefe, Center for Bat Research, Outreach, and Conservation, Indiana State University

Since 2006, bat research has been conducted on the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment in central Indiana, a 100-year project in its infancy. Active timber management and control units provide a unique opportunity to study bat responses. Our objective was to track foraging habits of Indiana (Myotis sodalis; MYSO) and northern long-eared (M. septentrionalis; MYSE) bats in 9 timber-managed units across a 19,000 ha state forest. Managed units received patch cuts/single-tree selection or clearcutting, shelterwood harvest, and fire. In 2014–2015, we tracked 28 ? MYSE, 6 ? MYSO, and 2 ? MYSO for 1–5 nights and collected 66 ± 25 (mean ± SD; n=36 bats) radio telemetry locations/bat. Using 95% kernel density estimates, MYSE foraging ranges averaged 166 ha, whereas MYSO ranges were more than double at 391 ha. We overlaid forest management/habitat type with foraging areas to perform a probabilistic weighted compositional analysis and rank order of resource use. Fourteen bats used uneven-aged forest patches, 3 used even-aged patches, 8 used control units, and all were captured at small forest ponds. MYSO traveled up to 5 km from roost sites to foraging areas, while MYSE foraged along slopes adjacent to ridgetop roosts. Most MYSO and MYSE foraged in recently harvested or regenerating areas and inter-species preferences track ecomorphological differences. Use of cut areas suggests low impact timber harvesting has a neutral or positive effect on bat foraging space. Strategies to promote forest heterogeneity at multiple spatial scales may promote foraging habitat for both imperiled Myotis species.

Fungal endophyte community characterization in the plant family Asteraceae – do microbiomes correlate with plant phylogenetic relatedness? (Poster) Briana K. Whitaker, Qing Chai, Natalie Christian, and Keith Clay, Indiana University

The interactions between plants and their fungal endophytes represent a ubiquitous association in nature. Fungal endophytes span diverse roles and trophic modes, including mutualists, pathogens, and saprotrophs. Despite their pervasiveness however, we still understand very little about what factors shape endophyte community composition and structure in natural host populations. To this end, we undertook a large-scale characterization of the fungal endophyte communities in 18 native host species from the plant family Asteraceae and one non-Asteraceae outgroup species (Lobelia cardinalis). All plant hosts were grown in replicate under common garden conditions in south-central Indiana. Phylogenetic relatedness among the 19 host species was inferred using the plant internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and maximal likelihood methods, while pairwise evolutionary distance amongst host species was computed using principle coordinates analysis. Using a culture-independent approach, 83% of the endophytic species characterized thus far belong to the Ascomycota sub-phylum, with 17% falling within the Basidiomycota. At the class level, Dothideomycetous fungi are the most abundant, closely followed by Sordariomycetes and Tremellomycetes. Furthermore, our preliminary findings indicate differences in endophyte community structure among host species. Many fungi are apparently novel discoveries, with few close matches within reference gene databases. Through this work, we are uncovering the role of biotic control and host evolutionary relationships in shaping fungal endophyte communities in previously unexplored herbaceous natives, using a novel host-phylogenetic framework.

Immunotheraputic effects of plant chemistry as a mediator of host-parasite interactions in Manduca sexta. Michael Garvey, Purdue University; Curtis Creighton, Purdue University Calumet; Ian Kaplan, Purdue University

Bottom up pressure from plants and top down pressure from natural enemies are important drivers of herbivore diet breadth. But how herbivores co-op plant defenses to gain protection from natural enemies is still under explored in the literature. Even less understood is how plant-derived compounds alter herbivore physiology to counter parasite infections, i.e. immunotherapy. To investigate the pharmacodynamics of plant toxins on herbivores, we used Manduca sexta and the parasitoid Cotesia congregata to examine host/parasitoid preference, host performance, and host immune activity on different food plants in the Solanaceae (nightshades). Preference was assayed by tracking natural rates of herbivore and parasitoid abundance over two field seasons in a common garden experiment containing 18 different nightshade plant species. Caterpillar performance was determined by measuring wet-weight at seven days, and immunocompetence was assayed by measuring phenoloxidase activity on a subset of food plants for each genus. Hornworm preference and performance were strongly influenced by plant species and genus. Similarly, plant genus and species influenced parasitoid preference. Notably, the most preferred plant species for hornworms were not the same plants species that they performed the best on and additionally, the incidence of parasitoid infection inversely correlated with the most preferred plant species. Finally, immunity was only lowered on tomato plants, which had high rates of parasitism, but not tobacco, which experienced some of the lowest parasitism rates. As a follow up experiment we measured the same parameters with hornworms on two of the most preferred food plants, tobacco and tomato, using an isogenic tobacco line varying in nicotine and a mutant tomato cultivar that under/overexpressed plant defenses. Nicotine slowed larval development, but increased phenoloxidase activity. Likewise, tomatoes deficient in defenses allowed caterpillars to grow faster, but did not influence immunity. Together, these findings suggest that nicotine, and not other plant defenses, may be immunotherapeutc for tobacco hornworm caterpillars in addition to being fatal to parasitoids, influencing hornworm preference and parasitoid abundance in the environment.

Impact of global environmental changes on an exotic invasive species, Alliaria petiolata (garlic mustard) (Poster) Scott Collins, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Invasive exotic species have caused severe ecological and economic damages to many communities in the United States and elsewhere. It is therefore important to improve our understanding of how global environmental changes will affect the invasiveness and seriousness of exotic species. With atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition on the rise over the past decades, it is essential to understand how change in soil N will affect the invasiveness of exotic species. In my study, I examined the impact of soil N levels and drought stress on Alliaria petiolata (garlic mustard), an exotic invasive species that is widely distributed in Indiana. Study of N deposition on plant growth will allow for a better understanding of the invasiveness of garlic mustard when environmental conditions will likely be different from the present. Various physiological and morphological measurements were made to analyze the growth and physiology in plants grown at varying N and soil moisture levels. I found an increase in photosynthetic rate and growth in all plants at higher N. Plants with adequate water supply showed a continued increase from the lowest level of N to the highest. There was a 37.8% increase in photosynthetic rate between 20 and 40 kg ha-1 N. The plants grown under drought stress, however, reached a plateau at 20 kg ha-1 N and there showed a slight decrease in photosynthetic rate at 40 kg ha-1 N. My results showed that garlic mustard under drought stress did not benefit from an increase in N above a certain level. Results from my study will allow us to apply the optimal management strategies to understand and control exotic invasive species in the context of global environmental changes.

Influence of Northern River Otter Latrine Sites Upon Carnivore Activity and Species Richness Rebekah A. Lumkes, Sarah Meronk, Natalie Euler, Casey C. Day, and Patrick A. Zollner, Purdue University

Interspecific competition occurs when two species exploit the same resource, or must share resources in a particular niche. In Indiana, northern river otters (Lontra canadensis) were reintroduced in 1995 and have successfully inhabited many of the state’s waterways. Because of these recent reintroductions, competition for space and food is likely occurring between otters and other species that occupy a similar niche. To evaluate this competition, we studied otter activity and species richness at 5 sites in northern Indiana. We hypothesized that the presence and activity of otters at latrines would affect the behavior patterns of other riparian species at these same sites. We used remote cameras to compare species richness, visitation rates, and diel activity patterns at otter latrine sites and paired non-latrine control sites. Results show that monthly mean species richness was significantly lower at control sites than at latrines (p=0.014). We did not find a significant difference in visitation rates of species between latrine and control sites (p=0.10). Raccoons were significantly more nocturnal at control sites than at latrine sites (p=0009). It is clear that otter latrine behavior affects patterns of behavior of other riparian species. This interaction has implications for a number of factors for the affected species, including habitat selection, prey availability, and social behavior.

Investigating Vitamin B6 Content in Natural Plant Communities Jared L. Scott and Elizabeth E. Rueschhoff, Indiana University Southeast

Vitamin B6 (B6) has been well documented as a necessary cofactor in many biosynthetic pathways. In addition B6 has been shown to be a powerful antioxidant, protecting Arabidopsis from reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ultra violet light stress. Since ROS are natural byproducts of both photosynthesis and cellular respiration, we hypothesize that plants receiving full sunlight might increase B6 biosynthesis as a means to combat the stress of direct sunlight and UV radiation. To test this hypothesis, a quantitative analysis of vitamin B6 content leaf tissue was carried out on ten angiosperm species, five from a light tolerant community and five from a light intolerant community. A large open field served as the location for five light tolerant zones (6m radius), while a forest understory provided five light intolerant zones (6m radius). Twenty five samples of each species, five species from each zone, were individually ground with 0.44N HCl and autoclaved for 4 hours at 121° C on liquid cycle. The pH of the cooled samples was adjusted to 4.8 using Sodium Acetate and treated with β-glucosidase and acid-phosphatase to convert any phosphorylated of glycosylated B6 into the non- phosphorylated and non-glycosylated forms. The samples were filter sterilized and B6 content was determined through auxotrophic yeast bioassay. The means of the B6 concentrations were compared through one-way ANOVA analysis performed using IBM SPSS. The results indicate light tolerance is not the sole/major factor in vB6 concentrations found in leaf tissues. However the data shows that further investigation of this complex issue is warranted. There were some significant differences in means between light tolerant and light-intolerant herbaceous species, between the light tolerant and light intolerant woody species, between woody and herbaceous species overall, and between two members of the same genus (Acer saccharum andAcer rubra).

Microbial Diversity: The Seasonal Effects on the Microbial Population in a Soil Ecosystem (Poster) Madison Heflin and Hisako Masuda, Indiana University Kokomo

The microbial population plays numerous essential functions in soil ecosystem. In this study, the diversity of culturable bacteria in soil during varying seasons was examined. The bacterial strains were collected from farmland soil in Southern Cass County of Indiana on 16 separate sampling days, spanning from January to the end of June of 2015. The samples were obtained from 0 to 4 cm below the soil surface at atmospheric temperatures ranging between -15.6 °C and 30.6 °C. Following serial dilution, samples were plated onto agar medium containing tryptic soy broth. The microbial strains were classified based on the morphological features of the colonies on solid media. A total 761 colonies were identified and then were classified into 54 morphotypes. Only 39 % of morphotypes were present in the majority of the temperature ranges tested, and the other morphotypes were observed only in the samples collected from the defined season. Interestingly, as the atmospheric temperature increased, the fraction of season-specific strains within the population also increased. Further statistical analysis of our results supports our view that microbial biodiversity and species richness in our samples increases in proportion to the temperature. The potential ecological role of the temperature-specific culturable microbes in soil ecosystem is currently under investigation.

Multiple and sometimes interacting factors influence complex plastic phenotypes in the cabbage white butterfly Andrew Stoehr, Butler University

Many organisms develop alternative phenotypes in different environments, a phenomenon called phenotypic plasticity. In many cases, this plasticity is known or hypothesized to be adaptive because it allows for a better "phenotype-environment match" than would a fixed developmental outcome. However, because multiple factors across environments vary and because organisms themselves are composed of multiple traits, adaptive phenotypic plasticity requires highly integrated responses to environmental variation. For these reasons, a major goal of research on adaptive phenotypic plasticity is to gain a greater understanding of how organisms with multiple plastic traits respond to different environmental factors. I describe experimental research on the plastic wing pattern traits of the small cabbage white butterfly, whose wing patterns vary seasonally in a form of plasticity that allows for more effective thermoregulation. The environmental factor with the greatest effect on wing patterns is the temperature experienced during larval and pupal development, but different wing pattern elements respond to temperature in different ways. In addition, photoperiod (day length) and dietary nutrient content affect wing patterns and these effects sometimes interact with the effect of temperature. These multiple and sometimes interacting factors not only help explain wing pattern variation in this species, but may also affect how this invasive crop pest fares in the face of ongoing anthropogenic ecological change.

Novel Functional Diversity Traits of Insect Communities Jeffrey D. Holland, Ashley L. Kissick, Purdue University

Functional diversity metrics offer a way to quantify the diversity of roles carried out by a community of species. These roles can include ways that different taxa respond to their environment and landscape, and how they interact with other groups and trophic levels. This talk will present methods recently developed to measure interactions between trophic levels by examining the way that beetles are perceived by their predators, and how this can be incorporated into functional diversity. A novel method for incorporating the way that species respond to landscape surroundings across a range of spatial foci is also presented. The use of these and other novel traits in a functional diversity framework is briefly introduced.

Optimizing Trap Design for Capture of Amphipods in Western Lake Erie Eric Stadig, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, Stephen Hensler, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Robert Gillespie and William DeMott, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Comprehensive early detection monitoring programs for aquatic invasive fishes, bivalves & select benthic macroinvertebrates are currently being conducted throughout the Laurentian Great Lakes. To improve the sampling efficiency of survey efforts, we evaluated three amphipod trap designs. These included two novel designs and one previously published design set in four treatment configurations (light, bait, light & bait combined, and no stimulus). By examining two experimental designs, our objectives were to determine if any trap or treatment cue could improve capture efficiencies (via CPUE). Sampling took place with collaboration from U.S. Fish and Wildlife during their 2015 Ichthyoplankton surveys within Maumee Bay of western Lake Erie. Our results indicate that using light sources (100+ lumens) within certain traps may significantly increase CPUE of amphipods (α=0.05; p-values= <0.05 to <0.0001). additionally, results indicate that certain treatments may promote species specific methods for capture of native and non- native species (Gammarus fasciatus and Echinogammarus ischnus, respectively). These results may help researchers optimize efforts to assess amphipods assemblages and monitoring for potential high-risk invasive amphipod species.

Parasite Effects on Freshwater snail, Elimia livescens Elemental Content and Metabolism Nicole Chodkowski and Randall J. Bernot, Ball State University

Parasites are infectious agents present in every ecosystem, but their effects on ecosystem functioning are largely unexplored. Ecological stoichiometry uses the mass balance of multiple elements to predict energy and elemental fluxes across different levels of ecological organization and provides a framework for understanding the role of parasites in ecosystems. A specific prediction of ecological stoichiometry is that organisms with faster growth or reproductive rates will require higher phosphorus content for nucleic acid and protein synthesis. We examined the carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) content of parasitic trematodes and their intermediate host, the freshwater snail Elimia livescens, from the White River in east-central Indiana. We hypothesized that the N:P ratio of trematodes will be lower (more P per unit N) than snails due to rapid asexual reproduction of the trematodes. Snails ranged in size from 13.1 to 23.2 mm and were dissected to separate snail tissue (foot and gonad) from trematode sporocyst, rediae, and cercariae. Snail tissues of parasitized and non-parasitized snails did not differ in C, N, P content or C:P and N:P ratios. However, C:N was 11.8% greater in snails that were not parasitized compared parasitized snails. Trematode tissues contained lower C:P and N:P (more P per unit C and N) than the snail tissues, which was driven by greater P in trematodes. Parasite tissues also contained less C and N per unit biomass relative to snail tissues. Snail gonadal tissues contained more P content than either the snail foot or parasite tissues but more closely resembled the elemental content of parasite tissues. Parasitized snails maintained faster metabolic rates than non-parasitized snails. Together, this elemental imbalance between parasite and host, and the altered metabolic rate of infected snails may lead to parasite effects on nutrient dynamics and energy flow in stream ecosystems.

Plant-soil feedback not a driver of competitive dynamics among two invasive and one native groundcover species of eastern deciduous forest Heather L. Reynolds and Carli Gurholt, Indiana University Bloomington

Through plant-soil feedback (PSF), a plant’s influence on local soil properties affects the fitness of con- or heterospecific individuals subsequently occupying the site. PSF can be a mechanism of plant invasion, when invasive plants experience relatively more positive PSF than native species. To date, most studies of PSF and invasion have focused on individual invasive species. Ecosystems are often invaded by multiple invasive species, however, and more attention to the dynamics of co-occurring invasives is warranted. Euonymus fortunei (Purple Wintercreeper) and Aegopodium podagraria (Bishop’s Weed) are emerging invasive groundcovers of eastern deciduous forests. PSF feedback has been implicated in E. fortuneiinvasion of native woodland communities, but information about A. podagraria’s PSF interactions with either native species or E. fortunei is lacking. In a greenhouse experiment, we examined pairwise PSF interactions between these two invasive species and the native woodland groundcover Parthenocissus quinquefolia (Virginia Creeper). We conditioned live woodland soil via growth with each species, then used conditioned soils to inoculate monocultures of each species, all possible pairwise mixtures, and a three-species community. Euonymus fortunei was sensitive to competition with A. podagraria. The native species Parthenocissus quinquefolia was sensitive to competition with E. fortunei but not A. podagraria. None of the three species exhibited differential growth in soil that had been conditioned by con- vs. heterospecific species, regardless of competitive level. Our data suggest that PSF is not a driver of competition dynamics amongst these three species.

Population Genetics of the Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) in Southern Indiana (Poster) Anna Hartsuff, Evin T. Carter, and Mark Jordan, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Habitat loss and fragmentation are primary factors associated with population declines of reptiles in the Midwest. Populations can become differentiated if gene flow is disrupted and this will ultimately result in decreased genetic diversity. Meanwhile, taxon-specific behaviors such as limited migration can also lead to population differentiation in unfragmented habitat. We investigated the genetic diversity and structure of the Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) in southern Indiana. Pitvipers such as the Copperhead have been shown to have population structuring at small spatial scales. We sampled localities that were both connected by suitable habitat and one site that is isolated on a habitat island (Clifty Falls State Park). DNA was extracted from seventy-eight snakes and genotyped with ten microsatellite loci. Preliminary results suggested that levels of genetic diversity were similar across localities. Sites located in relatively unfragmented forests were differentiated but not to the degree of that found in the isolated site. These results suggest that gene flow may be naturally infrequent in the species but that copperhead populations are susceptible to habitat fragmentation. While the species appears to be stable throughout much of its range, such information will assist with the management of fragmented populations and in the three states where it is afforded protected status.

Radio-tagging and tracking of Cerulean Warblers (Setophaga cerulea) in southern Indiana Clayton D. Delancey, Claire E. Nemes, and Kamal Islam, Ball State University

The Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea), a Neotropical migratory songbird, is listed as state-endangered in Indiana., We have been monitoring Cerulean Warbler breeding populations in Yellowwood and Morgan-Monroe state forests since 2007 as part of a 100-year project called the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment. This long-term study aims at determining the effects of different forest management techniques on plant and animal communities. Many taxa are studied by researchers from multiple universities throughout the nine study units. Based on previous research, many mature forest- dependent Neotropical migrant fledglings move from mature forest habitat into areas of thick vegetation such as clear- cuts. We are interested in determining where fledgling Cerulean Warblers disperse to after fledging from their nests before migrating to their wintering grounds. We have limited knowledge of site fidelity differences between male and female Cerulean Warblers, as well as with the number of nesting attempts per season. Here we present new findings from a pilot radio-telemetry project and from our banding studies. Information gathered from our study can potentially be used to suggest forest management prescriptions that provide Cerulean Warblers with all of their required habitat needs during the breeding season.

Re-examination of an 80-year-old peat core from Bacon’s Swamp reveals new understanding of the natural history of Indiana’s southernmost Sphagnum bog Carly Hubbard & Anthony L. Swinehart, Department of Biology, Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, Michigan

Numerous recent attempts to retrieve a sediment core to recover macrofossils and study the palaeoecology of historic Bacon’s Swamp in the city of Indianapolis failed due to the presence of extensive and deep gravel fill overlaying the original wetland sediments. The authors were then made aware of the survival of cores collected in 1937 by John E. Potzger and his students at Butler University prior to extensive filling and destruction of the bog. Potzger had used these cores to extract pollen and study regional forest succession. Chemicals were used successfully in the present study to hydrate and disaggregate the dried sediment. The material was then filtered and examined for identifiable macrofossils. Macrofossils were remarkably well-preserved despite having been dried for nearly 80 years and reconstituted. Numerous taxa have been identified. The results of the analysis contradict previously published accounts of the nature of the deposit and contribute to the understanding of the ecology of this unique wetland.

Roadkill Hotspots in the Dunes National Lakeshore (Poster) Giesela Pierce and Vanessa S. Quinn, Purdue North Central

The Dunes National Lakeshore has terrestrial biodiversity that is several times higher than expected for its area. In addition, the Dunes National Lakeshore is surrounded by urbanization and considerable vehicular traffic. We have begun a project with the goal of establishing roadkill hot spots within the Dunes. This research lays the groundwork to identify and measure the variables associated with road kill in the Dunes, such as weather, traffic, and habitat. State Highway 12 in Northwest Indiana was walked daily from May 24 – August 10. GIS coordinates were taken at each vertebrate roadkill. The roadkill were also photographed for future identification. Roadkill hot spots were identified for mammals and amphibians. Future directions for this research include the production of ARC-GIS maps that include habitat layers.

Seasonal Foraging by Forest Mice Enhances Loss of Weed Seeds from Crop Field Edges Sarah A. Abercrombie, Jacob L. Berl, Elizabeth A. Flaherty, and Robert K. Swihart, Purdue University

Native seed predators, such as omnivorous mice (Peromyscus spp.) and ground beetles (Carabidae), consume weed seeds and waste grain within agricultural fields and thus provide a beneficial service to farmers. Seasonally resident species that migrate into fields from adjacent non-crop habitats may also contribute to loss of weed seed, particularly along field edges. We investigated whether rates of weed-seed removal within fields increased during summer crop growth when white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus), a ubiquitous forest-dwelling rodent in the eastern US, seasonally migrate into crop fields from adjacent forested woodlots. We used exclosure experiments to quantify the relative number of giant foxtail (Setaria faberi) seeds removed from seed trays by vertebrate and invertebrate seed predators within 4 cornfields in central Indiana. Each site was sampled during 4 different stages of crop growth (emergence, vegetative, reproductive, post-harvest). We used negative binomial regression to quantify the effect of predator group (vertebrate or invertebrate), season, and distance from field edge on rate of seed removal. Vertebrates (mice) contributed nearly twice as much to seed removal (~50%) compared to invertebrates (~25%), irrespective of season. Rates of invertebrate consumption differed among seasons but were not affected by distance from forest-field edge. Rates of seed removal by mice significantly interacted with season and distance from field edge, with higher rates of seed loss near forest-field edges during July and August. Although non-crop habitats are often overlooked as a source of seed predation services, our results indicate that forest-dwelling white-footed mice likely subsidize rates of in-field predation on weed seed. Future investigations of seed-predation services should consider more holistically the role of resident and seasonally opportunistic seed predators in regulation of weed populations in crop fields.

Soil Health within Indianapolis Urban Gardens Blake T. Moskal and Sean T. Berthrong, Butler University

The growing trend of healthier diets and localized food systems has led to the emergence of many urban farms throughout Indianapolis. Communities now have access to arable land where they can grow high quality produce for families and communities. However, many of the farms are built on land with past industrial legacies. These postindustrial soils could contain contaminants, like heavy metals, some of which are potentially harmful to humans at high concentrations. These sites also have poor soil quality, so farmers often have to import soil and use large amounts of fertilizer or compost to ensure viable growing conditions. To isolate imported soil from the possibly contaminated, farms typically lay down around 24 inches of mulch between the original land and the growing medium. To test if this method is effective and providing healthy soil, we took four soil samples from six urban farms in the Indianapolis area: two from the growing medium and the other two from the original land. Samples were tested for a number of soil health indicators, as well as for concentrations of an array of heavy metals. We found wide variation in heavy metal concentrations, though growing medium was significantly lower than the original land. Organic matter was also related to soil respiration suggesting increased soil health with compost addition. This research will educate gardeners and general public on soil health within urban gardens. This will help farmers become more efficient with their methodology, as well as alert them to any potential hazards.

Stability mechanisms in beetle functional groups Ashley L. Kissick and Jeffrey D. Holland, Purdue University

Three mechanisms have been proposed through which biodiversity may stabilize ecosystems: density compensation, response diversity, and cross-scale resilience. Density compensation is said to occur when the decrease in abundance of one species is followed by an increase in the abundance of another species. However, response diversity is indicated when an environmental change causes populations of some species to increase while causing other populations to decrease. Support for the third mechanism, cross-scale resilience, is found when an environmental change influences species’ abundances at various spatial scales. Evidence for these mechanisms has been found in a variety of ecological systems, but to our knowledge no previous studies have investigated the presence of these mechanisms simultaneously in predator and prey. We have previously grouped longhorned beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) and their generalist beetle predators into functional groups based on their ecological roles in hardwood forests and have examined how these groups change along a gradient of forest fragmentation. In this study, we test the hypothesis that biodiversity stabilizes ecosystem processes through density compensation, response diversity, and cross-scale resilience by further examining which of these ecological stabilizing mechanisms are present in these beetle communities.

The Effects of Cover Crop on Amphibians Robert Brodman, Payton Kellenburger, and Hanna Van Meter. Saint Joseph’s College, Indiana.

Cover crop is known to benefit soil and water quality, however little is known of the direct effects of cover crops on resident wildlife communities. In addition to the potential benefits to amphibian habitat near agriculture, wetlands may be exposed to herbicides in the spring if they are used to terminate cover-crops in preparation to the planting of cash crops. Although little is known about the impact of cover-crops on amphibian populations, there is a substantial amount of literature showing that herbicides can be detrimental to amphibians. Our goal was to determine if using cover crop benefits amphibian communities adjacent to agricultural fields. We conducted a two year pilot study in 2014 and 2015 by collecting data on the abundance and diversity of amphibians in five wetland-woodland complexes that are surrounded by cropland. We establishing cover crops on two of these sites, and the other three sites served as controls. To simulate herbicide exposure from cover crop termination we collected Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum) larvae from control and cover crop treatment sites just before cover crops where to be terminated in 2015 and raised them in the last for 12 weeks. Half from each site were exposed to the glyphosate herbicide Roundup. We found no difference in overall abundance or species richness of amphibians between control and cover crop treatment sites, however the diversity index of cover crop sites was significantly greater that control sites. We found an interactive effect of cover crop and herbicide that affected growth and development in larvae collected from control sites and found no difference in larvae from cover crop sites. This suggests a benefit of cover crops to salamander fitness.

The effects of food availability on the reproduction and disease susceptibility of Daphnia dentifera and Daphnia lumholtzi Maggie A. Wigren and Catherine Searle, Purdue University

It is widely known that parasites can severely harm a host population, and identifying the factors that can enhance or inhibit diseases is crucial for management of disease in wild populations. Metschnikowia bicuspidata is a species of yeast that commonly infects freshwater crustaceans in North America (Daphnia sp.) and is extremely lethal to them. The disease can alter many factors in the ecology of Daphnia, such as susceptibility to predation or environmental stressors. Also, the environment can potentially alter Daphnia-Metschnikowia interactions. We investigated how food availability for the host can influence spore production of the pathogen, where young Daphnia (neonates) were exposed to Metschnikowia and were given various amounts of food. Mortality, body size, and spore production were measured. In the low food treatment, we observed high mortailty as well as decreased body size, suggesting a trend towards decreased spore production. This pattern may have been caused by fewer resources for the Metschnikowia to grow and reproduce in the low food treatments. To build upon these results, we are currently investigating how varying food treatments can affect the reproductive rates of a native and invasive species of Daphnia (Daphnia dentifera and Daphnia lumholtzi). We are using 3 clones of each species, where each are exposed to one of three food treatments (high, medium, and low food). The number of offspring produced by each individual Daphnia will be measured and compared among treatments and clones. Together, these studies may have implications for how changes in resource availability could influence reproductive rates and disease susceptibility.

The Potential Role of Hypolimnetic Gases, Temperature, and Hydrostatic Pressure on the Mortality and Taphonomy of Freshwater Fishes. E. Anders Kiledal and Anthony L. Swinehart, Department of Biology, Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, MI

Exquisite preservation of articulated remains of living things likely to become part of the fossil record is favored by quick deposition and burial. To explore the potential role of limnic eruptions and other gas-related phenomena in lakes on the mortality and taphonomy of freshwater fish with swim-bladders, especially in light of Konservat-Lagerstätten such as the Green River Formation, three different gases (CO2, CH4, and H2S) were separately sparged into aquaria containing goldfish. The first objective was to determine time to mortality for each gas and whether there was any difference between the gases on the buoyancy of the fish immediately after death. Although there were differences in buoyancy immediately after death, some fish floated and sunk more than once after death, thus reducing the probability of exquisite preservation. Published literature suggests that temperatures below 15C prevent floating. This was also tested and did not hold true in the present study. Therefore the role of pressure at PSI values similar to lake depths was tested to determine if fishes that sink into deeper parts of a lake remain submerged due to the effects of hydrostatic pressure. Results will be discussed.

The use of soil transfer with a native seed bank to control invasive plant species Adam R. Warrix, Indiana University - Purdue University Fort Wayne, Betsy Yankowiak, Little River Wetlands Projects, and Jordan M. Marshall, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Invasive species have become a standard, consistent problem in managed ecosystems. Such species often invade into disturbed areas, which commonly are a result of restoration or other management activities. In dredging open water bodies at Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve, artificial mounds were constructed with the soil removed. This movement of soil created a disturbance to allow for the recruitment and colonization of invasive species. The purpose of this study is to quantify the effectiveness of transferring a native seed bank in a recently restored mesic prairie, which would be lost to additional management, to the artificial mounds as a method of controlling invasive species. This study was conducted with greenhouse and field experimentation. Soil samples containing the seed bank was moved to a greenhouse to quantify plant emergence following different soil treatments. Intact and mixed soil treatments were applied to greenhouse soil samples. All emerging plant species were identified and counted. All treatment methods contained a high diversity of native species and a low diversity of invasive species with the exception of the seed bank soil mixed with soil from the mounds. The mound mixed soil contained a higher diversity of invasive species than other treatments. Prior to the field experiment, a plant survey of the mounds was conducted in July 2014. In October 2014, 960 m2 of soil was transferred from the donor site to the mounds. A post-move survey conducted in July 2015 indicated the native species diversity increased while the diversity of invasive species decreased. Soil transfer as a management strategy was appropriate in this situation where a large native seed bank in a donor region existed. By moving soil from one location to another, we were able to promote native plant establishment and reduce invasive species emergence.

Thermoregulatory strategies of Indiana bats and northern long-eared bats in the southern Appalachian Mountains (Poster) Jasmine R. Barney and Joy M. O’Keefe, Center for Bat Research, Outreach, and Conservation, Terre Haute, IN.

There are few data on thermoregulatory strategies of wild bats, though this information would help to define appropriate times to implement management actions such as prescribed fire and timber harvest in areas where bats roost in trees. Tree-dwelling bats may use shallow (e.g., 10-25 °C) torpor for short periods each day or deep torpor (<10 °c) for days to weeks in order to conserve energy during periods of low resource availability or inclement weather. we conducted a two- year study measuring the body temperatures of tree-dwelling indiana bats (Myotis sodalis) and northern long-eared bats (M. septentrionalis) in the large, contiguous forests of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This park exhibits rugged terrain, with elevations ranging from 250 -1200 m, so bats are exposed to a variety of temperatures across different areas. Our goal was to compare thermoregulatory strategies for these two bat species and by sex, age, and reproductive groups, and to relate these strategies to roost characteristics (shady and cool vs. sunny and warm). We collected body temperature data for 5 Indiana bats (4 M, 1 F) and 18 northern long-eared bats (5 M, 11 F, 2 juveniles) between May and September 2014-2015. We will compare daily temperature profiles for the two species, as well as comparing across sex, age, and reproductive classes (lactating vs. post-lactating). We expect all groups of bats to use shallow torpor, regardless of type of roost used. Due to energetic demands of pup-rearing, we predict lactating adult females will use deep torpor less than adult males or non-reproductive females. We predict juveniles will select warmer roosts and use deep torpor less than non-reproductive adult bats. With a better understanding of thermoregulatory strategies for these two bats, we may be able to time management actions to avoid harming bats when they are in deep torpor.

Using Capture-Recapture Models to Estimate Angler Abundance in Southern Lake Michigan Dominique D. Turney, Patrick A. Zollner, Benjamin M. Gramig, Charles R. Roswell, Benjamin D. Dickinson and Mitchell T. Zischke

Recreational fishing is socially, economically and environmentally important to southern Lake Michigan. State fisheries agencies in Illinois and Indiana conduct routine angler surveys to estimate fishing effort and catch. However despite the popularity of angling in southern Lake Michigan, current survey methods and fishing licenses fail to estimate the number of anglers that use this resource each year. Capture-recapture methods have been extensively used in population ecology to estimate the abundance of animals and a similar approach can be used for human populations. Previous attempts to use capture-recapture methods in recreational fisheries have been preliminary in nature and likely violate the assumptions of the models used. Therefore, the objective of our study was to collect unique identification information from anglers and use capture-recapture models to estimate the abundance of anglers in Illinois and Indiana. Data were collected through creel surveys of boat and shore anglers from May to October 2015. We implemented an open population Jolly-Seber model using Program MARK to estimate angler abundance as 3,925 and 4,170 anglers in the Indiana and Illinois portion of Lake Michigan, respectively. Future work will incorporate seasonality in angling effort and possible migration among fishing sites to refine the precision of our estimates. Our results establish the utility of open capture-recapture models for angling populations and has implications for fisheries management in southern Lake Michigan and more broadly. Accurate estimates of angler abundance in recreational fisheries may help understand declining angling participation and identify opportunities to enhance these fisheries.

Entomology

The Tears of Re: Beekeeping in Ancient Egypt Gene Kritsky, Mount St. Joseph University

Accumulation and transmission of Soybean Vein Necrosis Virus by three thrips species (Poster) Jinlong Han, Kedric Milrollanel, Tyler Shuman and Punya Nachappa, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Soybean vein necrosis virus (SVNV) is an emerging viral disease affecting soybean, first discovered in Tennessee in 2008. SVNV has been identified as a new species in the genus Tospovirus, which are exclusively transmitted by thrips in propagative manner. Soybean thrips, Neohydathothrips variabilis, is the only confirmed vector of SVNV. However, other thrips species are found in soybean fields, including Frankiella fusca (tobacco thrips) and Frankiella tritici (eastern flower thrips). In this study, first instar N. variabilis, F. fusca, and F. tritici larvae were exposed on SVNV-infected plants for acquisition of virus (AAP). Their transmission efficiencies were determined by leaf disk assay and whole plant assay. The objective of this study was to determine the vector competence in three thrips species including N. variabilis, F. fusca, and F. tritici. Vector competence assays showed that F. fusca, and F. tritici were able to acquire the virus after being exposed to SVNV-infected leaf tissues for 48 hours. Both species were also able to successfully transmit SVNV to healthy plants, but at a lower efficiency (less than 10% of the plants were infected by eastern flower thrips and 25% by tobacco thrips) than N. variabilis (nearly 70% infection). Taken together, results of this study will increase our understanding of virus-vector interaction, which is crucial for control of SVNV, as well as control of soybean thrips.

Amplitude Plasticity in Mating Duets of Male Erythroneura Leafhoppers During Mate Finding Michael B. Roberts and Randy Hunt, Indiana University Southeast

Leafhoppers (Cicadellidae) are a family of insects that feed on a wide range of wild, ornamental, and agricultural plants. While humans rely on visual and auditory cues, leafhoppers use vibrational signals transmitted through a plant to communicate. These signals are critical to species and mate recognition. Many studies have examined population and species level variation in various signal types involved in mating. However, few studies have considered the adaptive significance of time based changes in signaling behavior or signal plasticity. We studied Erythroneura bistrata, a specialist that reproduces on redbud trees. Mating behavior in E. bistrata involves duetting, which is the coordinated exchange of signals between a male and a female. In this presentation we present a descriptive analysis of dynamic changes in male signal amplitude in response to changes in the participation of females in duets. During courtship duets E. bistrata males incrementally shift to a soft song strategy after successfully engaging a female to participate in a duet. This change in intensity is responsive to the female’s ongoing participation such that the male increases amplitude in the absence of a response, as well as lowering amplitude following female responses. We suggest that this conditional strategy may be adaptive for male leafhoppers in avoiding vibration-detecting predators such as spiders. Gradually moving to a soft song after establishing a duet with a female may also reduce male-male competition. A responsive strategy could maximize the range in which a male could locate a receptive female and then minimize the chance that an arriving male could eavesdrop and disrupt the duet.

Biogeographic Affinities of Belize Mayflies (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) (Poster) D. W. Cool & Luke M. Jacobus, Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus

Twenty-three species of mayflies are known from Belize, based on historical records. This is the lowest species richness for any Central American country, except for the comparably sized El Salvador, which has only eight species known to occur there. Based on research from neighboring Nicaragua and southern Mexico, we expect the species richness of Belize to be much greater than currently reported; 56 species are known from Nicaragua, and 140 species are known from all of Central America. Field work during spring and summer 2016 will help us to increase the number of species known from Belize. Many Belize species also exist in the United States, showing lasting effects of the natural historical movement patterns that have been called the Great American Interchange. We compare the similarities between Belize and mayfly species to the north and south.

Conservation status of Siphloplecton species in northern North America (Insecta: Ephemeroptera: Metretopodidae) (Poster)

T. Herbert, S. Schipper, J. Wells, Autumn D.E. Fox & Luke M. Jacobus, Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus

Three species of the mayfly genus Siphloplecton have been reported from northern North America. Siphloplecton basale and S. interlineatum are rather widespread, but S. costalense is only known from New Jersey in the north. Each of these three species plus four others are known from southeastern North America. Siphloplecton basale and S. interlineatum have been considered rare in Indiana, but we have new data from large and medium river habitats during winter and very early spring that suggest they are more common. We have associated larvae for the first time with S. costalense, and we suspect that this discovery will allow for better recognition of the species based on this, the more commonly collected metamorphic stage.

Diurnal oviposition timing of blow flies and DNA identification of early arrivers Kristi Bugajski and Beth Scaglione-Sewell, Valparaiso University

Forensic entomology is the use of insects in the criminal justice system. Blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are usually the first insects to arrive and oviposit (lay eggs) on carrion. Their early arrival makes the timing of blow fly oviposition critical for postmortem interval (PMI) calculations. The PMI is the time that has passed between death and corpse discovery. There is little known about the diurnal timing of oviposition in forensic entomology. This study documented the earliest oviposition time in relation to hours after sunrise. Three pigs were placed in a field one hour after sunrise and observed hourly for the presence of blow flies and oviposition. Three bait cups filled with aged chicken liver were also placed in the field to note differences in oviposition timing and magnitude between pigs and liver. The experiment was replicated three times in September, 2015. No oviposition was observed on any of the chicken liver bait cups. The earliest oviposition on pigs occurred four and a half hours after sunrise but adult flies were observed starting two hours after sunrise. Egg masses were collected from pigs immediately after oviposition to ensure the first blow fly species ovipositing was recorded. Egg masses were frozen in a -20°C freezer prior to DNA isolation. DNA from egg masses was isolated and the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (CO I) gene was amplified by PCR. CO I sequences specific to individual blow fly species were identified using BLAST. The two blow fly species identified were Lucilia coeruleiviridis (Macquart) and Lucilia illustris (Meigen). These results confirm previous findings that Lucilia species are early arrivers on carrion. It is important to note that blow flies did not start ovipositing immediately after sunrise, and forensic entomologists should take this into consideration when making PMI estimations.

Diversity in decay: Study of xylophagous and saprophagous beetles (Insecta: Coleoptera) infesting decaying wood in southeastern Indiana. Glene Mynhardt, Emily Lessig, Darrin Rubino, Hanover College

Numerous insect species are associated with trees, specifically as wood borers (xylophages) or feeding directly on decaying organic material (saprophages). Currently, little is known about the insect diversity in southeastern Indiana, and no formal studies have attempted to describe saprophagous or xylophagous species. During the summer of 2015, several storms resulted in extensive tree fall on the Hanover College campus. This disturbance presented a unique opportunity to study of the diversity of beetles inhabiting felled and decaying trees. Samples of ten different tree hosts were collected from the Hanover campus forest, including native and introduced tree species. Insects were collected from contained samples weekly over the summer, fall, and winter of 2015, curated, and identified to morphospecies. The majority of these insects were beetles. More than 100 specimens of adult beetles, including at least 25 different species within 23 genera, were identified. Beetles were collected from all wood samples, and relative abundance and diversity was compared across plant host species. Comparative species richness between different tree hosts was not significantly different (Chi- square; p>0.05). The relatively rare native species, Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus Koch), had a diverse group of beetles never before documented, including several species of scolytine bark beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) This study presents the first report of G. dioicus as a tree host for bark beetles, and provides a preliminary examination of local beetle diversity of deciduous forests in southeastern Indiana.

Eighteen new spider (Order: Araneae) distribution records from Indiana forests (Poster) Tyler Ploss, Brody Deno, and Marc Milne, University of Indianapolis

Spiders are an integral part of forest ecosystems, yet their diversity is largely unknown in Indiana. In order to investigate Indiana spider diversity, we collected spiders across selected areas in Morgan Monroe State Forest (MMSF) and Yellowwood State Forest (YSF) as part of the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment. This multi-institutional, 100-year long experiment is attempting to determine the effect of selective and clear-cut logging on biodiversity patterns within Indiana forests. We placed 48 90ml pitfall traps at 24 sites (two traps per site). Half of the sites were in MMSF and the other half were in YSF. Pitfall traps were left at each site for 1 week prior to collection. Additionally, 3-4 handfuls of leaf litter were collected at each site for later sifting in Berlese funnels. Pitfall trap and leaf litter collection was done once every other month. In the lab, the pitfall trap contents, along with the Berlese funnel contents, were then sifted through for spiders and identified to species. We found and identified a total of 1,451 spiders, of which 18 were determined to be new distribution records for the state. Spiders were deemed to be state records if they were not found on the latest published and unpublished lists of spiders in the state. These results provide evidence that our knowledge of spider diversity within the state is far from complete and requires further study.

Engineering A Host Defense Regulatory Gene, PHYTOALEXIN DEFICIENT4 (PAD4) For Enhancing Resistance to Soybean Aphid (Poster) Patrick R Selig, Kumud Joshi, Punya Nachappa and Vamsi Nalam, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Soybean (Glycine max) is important for both its use in agriculture and industrial applications. Soybean plants must withstand many biological stresses, including viral and pathogenic infections, and nematodes among other pests. Soybean aphids (Aphis glycines Matsumura) alone can cause decreases in both yield and seed quality. Current management strategies involve extensive scouting and application of expensive insecticides. Although these strategies reduce the threat, they do not completely eliminate soybean aphid as a pest. As a complement to current management practices, biotechnological approaches to enhance plant immunity via the genetic manipulation of components of the plant’s own defense signaling pathways offers an attractive strategy for boosting plant defenses. A defense regulatory gene PHYTOALEXIN DEFICINT4 (PAD4) is an attractive candidate for over-expression in soybean plants due to its important role in plant defenses against a broad-spectrum of pathogens. The objectives of our study were to: (1) determine the role of PAD4 in soybean-soybean aphid interaction and (2) develop transgenic soybean plants that over- express the PAD4 gene. The expression of PAD4 in soybean plants that contain the Rag1 resistance gene was monitored via real-time quantitative polymerase chain-reaction in a time course experiment. The resistant cultivar displays elevated levels of PAD4 as compared to the susceptible control. Furthermore, the PAD4 transcripts are induced to higher levels within 24 h of aphid feeding. Transgenic soybean lines expressing soybean PAD4 from a soybean ubiquitin promoter are currently in the T1 generation and being evaluated for their response to soybean aphid infestation. The outcome of this research will lead to a better understanding of the role PAD4 plays in aphid resistance and allow for the development of transgenic lines with heightened resistance to soybean aphid.

Genetic identification of forensically-important dermestid beetles (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) Lindsay N. Beasley, Pamela R. Pretorius and Glené Mynhardt, Hanover College

It can be difficult to identify forensically-important insects, in particular larval stages through morphology. Instead, the use of a conserved, but relatively quickly evolving mitochondrial gene, cytochrome oxidase I (COI) can be used to easily identify populations within a species. The goal of this project was to isolate and sequence COI to identify genetic variation in hide beetles (Coleoptera: Dermestidae). Three species of Dermestes (D. caninus Germar, D. frischii Kugelann, and D. maculatus DeGeer) were hand-collected from raccoon carcasses placed on the Hanover College campus. In order to isolate and amplify COI, four pairs of sequencing primers were generated, spanning the length of the predicted COI sequence. A modified protocol was used to isolate total DNA and polymerase chain reactions (PCR) were performed. Subsequently, COI has been successfully isolated and amplified in both larval and adult dermestids.

Honey Bee Pheromones: Ethyl Oleate and Alcohol Sensitivity (Poster) Nathan O'Leary, Dr Andrew Ammons, Goshen College

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are a vital piece of human agriculture and economy, in addition to being a valuable model organism for studies of invertebrate alcohol use. In this research, we attempted to study how bees react to ethyl oleate in food when given the option between pure sugar water and sugar water with ethanol. We also isolated several Odorant Binding Protein (OBP) genes in the honey bee to make connections between pheromone reception in the bee and in fruit flies,Drosophila melanogaster. We found that as the bees aged, they were more willing to eat alcoholic sugar water. We also identified homologous OBP genes in the honey bee using the FlyBase genome and database.

Illustrating some of the smallest spiders in the world: the erigonines (Poster) Elizabeth Wells and Marc Milne, University of Indianapolis

The erigonine subfamily (Family: linyphiidae) currently consists of about 2000 tiny (< 2mm) spiders. little is known about their taxonomy and classification due to their small size and the fact that female erigonines have no taxonomic key. therefore, in order to identify erigonine females, their epigyna (female reproductive structures) must be examined using a powerful dissecting microscope and compared against existing illustrations or photographs of known species. these illustrations and photographs serve as efficient visual aids for identification because they are simplified and emphasize key parts. however, many erigonine illustrations and photographs are old (pre-1940’s), poor in quality, and/or may be inaccurate. to improve the ability of researchers to identify erigonines using these methods, females from eight poorly illustrated species were selected for accurate, modern illustration. spider epigyna were then illustrated free hand using pencil, pen, and a sketch pad while observing specimens under a dissecting microscope. drawings were then edited in photoshop to fix small errors and enhance the background. upon completion, these illustrations will be displayed on the linepig (short for “linyphiidae epigyna”) website of the field museum of chicago, where they will accompany recent erigonine epigyna photographs taken by resident arachnologist, nina sandlin, in order to serve as a guide for future researchers wishing to identify their specimens.

Local Drifting Behavior of the Western Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) (Poster) Alejandro Genis & Andrew Ammons, Goshen College

Apis mellifera is at the high end of the spectrum of insect sociality. Every hive implements a caste system that distinguishes between workers, drones, and a queen. This project strictly focuses on the workers because they are the ones that mature into foragers, which are bees that forage for nectar, pollen, propolis, and water. They each show a fascinating ability to fly up to two miles away from their hive every day to forage and still make it back to their hive. However, this is not always the case and a phenomena known as “drifting” can occur whenever more than one hive are in a local area. Drifting is when prevailing wind or repetitive features in a landscape can cause honey bees to enter a different hive from the one that they originally left. This can be harmful to apiculture, in that the drifting allows hives that are upwind of others to have bees be lost to other hives in an apiary. This can sometimes lead to colony death because hives must have a certain number of bees, depending on their size, to be able to maintain themselves during winter. This study explores if honey bees can be manipulated in a way to minimize drift among four different hives on the Goshen College campus in Goshen, Indiana.

Mayflies (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) of the Great Plains. V: Minnesota (Poster) A. K. Usher, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, J. M. Webb, Rhithron Associates, Inc., R. Edward DeWalt, Illinois Natural History Survey, D. W. Cool, C. Burnett Brandenburg & Luke M. Jacobus Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus

In the fifth installment of a series about mayflies of the Great Plains, we report 135 species of mayflies for the USA state of Minnesota, based on new and historical records from all Minnesota counties; 30 of these species have been newly discovered in the state during the past year alone. Within the northern Plains and upper Midwest, this species richness is matched only by neighboring Wisconsin and is not surprising, considering Minnesota is the only place in North America where the three largest eco-regions meet; Minnesota also contains Great Lakes and Mississippi River habitats. Important historical sites on the Mississippi River from the 1940s were revisited during 2014-2015, allowing for notable comparisions of ecological change. Remarkably, a species new to science has been discovered from one of these locales.

Symbiotic Effects on Termite (Reticulitermes flavipes) Caste Differentiation (Poster) Hannah L Stewart, Brittany F. Peterson, and Michael E. Scharf, Purdue University

The eastern subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes, is an important structural pest which has symbiotic relationships with bacteria and protists in their guts. Symbionts help termites perform a variety of functions. Juvenile Hormone (JH) is a signal for worker termites to differentiate into pre-soldiers, and then soldiers. It is unknown if symbionts play a role in caste differentiation. My hypothesis was that symbionts affect termite soldier differentiation. First, I evaluated the effect of four treatments on termite differentiation: untreated control, antibiotic alone, JH alone, and antibiotic + JH. Termite survivorship and pre-solider differentiation were recorded for three weeks. Most antibiotic +JH treated termites did not survive differentiation, whereas other treatments had significantly less mortality. Next I tested if trophallaxis, a social behavior, could improve survivorship by symbiont replenishment. Three groups were given JH and compared for survivorship and differentiation over three weeks: an untreated control, an antibiotic treated control, and a mixed group of half untreated and half antibiotic treated. Survivorship did not improve. In the mixed group, more untreated individuals survived, whereas the antibiotic-treated individuals did not, indicating that in 48-hours trophallaxis cannot rescue antibiotic-induced symbiont removal. Finally, to determine natural symbiont fluctuations during differentiation, termites were treated with JH and protists were counted over time. There were no differences in protist reduction between workers and pre-soldiers. However, more termites differentiated into pre-soldiers from colonies that had a lower starting protist counts. These results suggest there may be an optimal concentration of protists needed for differentiation, i.e. too few protists and termites die, but high protist titers may impede differentiation. This research represents the first steps toward discerning the link between symbionts and termite caste differentiation. Both symbiosis and eusociality are integral aspects of termite biology, and as such understanding them is critical to understanding , controlling, and exploiting these insects.

The advantage of calling second: Influence of vibrational masking on male mating success in the leafhopper Macropsis fumipennis Randy E. Hunt, Indiana University Southeast

Macropsis fumipennis is an ant-attended leafhopper that is a specialist on honey locust trees. Mate recognition in this leafhopper depends on vibrational signals exchanged between the sexes. The male call consists of a “whine” followed by a series of pulses. A receptive female responds to the pulses at the end of a male’s call by emitting a series of clicks. Field and laboratory observations suggested that males synchronize their mate attraction signal (a form of chorusing) and the characteristics of male calls differ depending on social context. The goals of our study were to confirm that males interact non-randomly (i.e. form synchronous choruses), characterize dynamic changes in male calls as they transition between solo calling and chorusing, determine how a male’s signaling strategy within a chorus may affect his ability to respond to a female, and experimentally determine the effect of signal masking (call overlap) on mating success. Analyses of phase relationships confirm that males overlap their calls with recordings of other males. However, the overlap is delayed such that they consistently overlap the end of the other male’s call. A playback experiment shows that masking the end of another male’s call effectively prevents him from responding to a signaling female. Thus, a male who begins to call slightly after another male begins to call has an advantage in communicating with a female.

The effects of forest fragmentation: Establishment of perimeter communities in temperate deciduous forests. Zachery T. Laughlin and Thomas A. Sobat, Ivy Tech Community College Columbus

Forest fragmentation has conventionally been viewed as detrimental to biodiversity. While the literature on forest patch dynamics is extensive, most of this work has focused on plants and vertebrates. Recent research suggests that diversity of certain invertebrates may be amplified by fragmentation. This study looks at the establishment of distinct perimeter communities associated with fragmented forests. Lindgren funnel traps were employed at four locations in Brown, Johnson and Jackson Counties for a period of eight weeks during the summer fall transition. Weekly collections at each site were stored in Whirl-Pak bags and preserved in 70% ETOH for examination in the lab. Specimens were pinned and dried for identification. Initial observations from this study will be discussed.

Vibrational signals associated with mating behavior in the leafhopper Graphocephala versuta (Poster) Kaitlin O’Bryan, Adelene Sublett, and Randy Hunt, Indiana University Southeast

Graphocephala versuta (Cicadellidae) is a common leafhopper that feeds on many plants, including economically important crops and ornamentals. Although direct feeding damage is rare, it has been identified as a potentially important vector of bacterial plant pathogens. However, little is known about its life history, ecology, and behavior. The purpose of this study was to describe the mating behavior of this species. Mating behavior in leafhoppers depends on the exchange of plant-borne vibrational signals. We established a colony of G. versuta using sunflower as a host. Signals emitted by virgin males or females and male/female pairs were recorded using a laser Doppler vibrometer. Isolated males emit calls consisting of a series of frequency modulated signals. Receptive females respond to male calls forming a duet. Males search and emit a courtship signal after locating a female. We also report on male-male interactions that may indicate the use of vibrational signals in mate competition.

Engineering

Radiocarbon Date of Base of Gravel Sluiceway, Wea Creek Plain, Near Lafayette, Tippecanoe, Indiana Terry West and Darryl Granger, Purdue University

The Wea Plain is a >10 m thick glaciofluvial gravel deposit covering an area of about 50 square kilometers along Wea Creek near its confluence with the Wabash River in Tippecanoe County, Indiana. The gravel terminates to the east against the T1 and T3 moraines of Trafalgar-type till (of Fleming et al., 1993). A water-soaked log was discovered at the base of the gravel pit of Purdy Aggregate Co. in south Lafayette at a depth of 15 m. It was located just above a silt layer likely of lacustrine origin and near the base of the gravel. The age of the log, determined by radiocarbon dating at PRIME lab, Purdue University is 22500 +/- 250 C 14 years, BP. The date is consistent with other dates of approximately 22,000 yr. BP from the base of the outwash gravels of the White River system in Marion County that represents the first advance of Late Wisconsinan ice. A nearly simultaneous advance of Trafalgar ice along a northwest line from Indianapolis to Lafayette is consistent with the direction of ice flow from the northeast, as evidenced from aligned glacial landforms and the orientation of moraine crests.

Environmental Quality

Effects of exposure to agricultural drainage ditch water on survivorship, distribution and abundance of riffle beetles (Coleoptera: Elmidae) in headwater streams of the Cedar Creek Watershed, Indiana. (Poster) Alicia Conrad, Robert B. Gillespie, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, Peter C. Smiley Jr., USDA-ARS Soil Drainage Research Unit, Columbus, OH, and Punya Nachappa, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Riffle Beetles (Coleoptera: Elmidae) require very good water quality, mature streams with riffle habitat, and high dissolved oxygen content. As such, they prove to be good indicators of ecological health in agricultural headwater streams. We conducted static renewal aquatic bioassays using water from three agricultural ditch sites, and beetles and water from one reference stream. Water was renewed twice per week during April 24th through June 26th. We also sampled riffle beetles at several drainage ditches of the CEAP study area and the reference site via a Surber sampler in the spring, summer and fall. Substrate and water samples were collected for particle size and contaminant analyses, respectively. Additionally, instream habitat measurements, and physiochemical measurements were recorded. The Mayfield survival rate of beetles in reference water ranged from 70% to 94%, while that of beetles exposed to ditch water ranged from 28% to 60%. Mortality appeared to increase in ditch water exposures at the beginning of June which corresponded with increased precipitation. Survival rate did not differ significantly among beetles exposed to water from the three ditch sites. However, survival was significantly greater in beetles from the reference treatment than from any ditch site. Field surveys found riffle beetles at four of seven sites during 2006 with densities ranging from 3.5 to 484/ m2. However, riffle beetles were found at a density of 12.9/ m2 at only one site in 2015. Results from bioassays suggest that exposure to agricultural ditch water caused significant mortality of riffle beetles. Results from surveys suggest a dramatic decline in riffle beetles at agricultural ditch sites between 2006-2015. To propose possible causes for these declines, we will compare instream habitat, water quality and physiochemical data collected in 2006 and 2015.

Factors influencing the abundance of sucralose in the Ohio River and potential for microbial degradation (Poster) Benjamin G. Kreitner, Melody J. Bernot, Ball State University

The artificial sweetener, sucralose (1,6-dichloro-1,6-dideoxy-β-D-fructofuranosyl-4-chloro-4-deoxy-α-D- galactopyranoside), is increasingly used in the United States as a dietary replacement for table sugar, or sucrose. The compound is stable under a broad range of environmental conditions and readily passes through the human body without being metabolized. Due to the persistent qualities of sucralose, it is expected to accumulate in large river systems that include highly populated areas. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of physicochemical, hydrologic, and demographic variables on sucralose abundance in the Ohio River Basin. In addition, we quantified sediment microbial community response to sucralose enrichment to better understand the potential for degradation in the environment. Sucralose was detected at 21 of the 22 sites (81 – 2220 ng/L) and did not differ between main stem and tributary sites. Across all sites, sucralose concentrations were correlated with conductivity, percent urban land use area, and percent urban population. In the benthic sediment, baseline microbial respiration was associated with percent sand, silt, and clay content, while microbial response to sucralose enrichment was mainly a function of sediment C:N content. Our data show that sucralose is abundant in the Ohio River and concentrations are linked to urban development.

Influence of amendments on soil and plant properties after exposure to hydraulic fracturing fluids (Poster) Lucas H. Clay and John Pichtel, Ball State University

Oil and natural gas operations often include injection of hydraulic fracturing fluids (HFFs) into the target geologic formation to enhance recovery. HFFs may contain hundreds of individual chemicals, some known to be detrimental to public health and the environment. A greenhouse study is investigating the effects of HFFs on soil properties and plant growth. A silty clay loam and a sandy loam soil were saturated with HFF and amended with either composted biosolids, composted food waste, calcium sulfate, or NPK fertilizer. The soils were cultivated to wheat (Triticum aestivum) and red clover (Trifolium repens). Wheat grew well in the presence of HFFs in all treatments; concentrations of chlorophyll a and b were not significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the presence of hffs. clover growth on several treatments in the sandy loam was poor, presumably due to salt effects. neither plant species took up appreciable concentrations of na or k from the soils; likewise, heavy metal (cr, cu, pb) uptake was not significantly different from the control. several oil drilling sites in southwest indiana have been affected by well blowouts including release of hffs; these are being assessed for field studies. the current study should provide useful information regarding the recovery of soils contaminated by hydraulic fracturing fluids.

Influence of instream habitat and water quality on aggressive behavior in crayfish of channelized headwater streams. (Poster) Tyler Wood, Robert B. Gillespie, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne and Peter C. Smiley Jr., USDA-ARS Soil Drainage Research Unit, Columbus, OH

Many agricultural drainage ditches that border farm fields of the Midwestern United States are degraded headwater streams that possess communities of crayfish. We hypothesized that crayfish communities at sites with low instream habitat diversity and poor water quality would show greater evidence of aggression. In this study eight sites on channelized headwater streams feeding Cedar Creek in Northeastern Indiana, nine sites feeding Upper Big Walnut Creek in Central Ohio, and one site on the East Branch of the Saint Joseph River in Southeastern Michigan were monitored over two years for evidence of crayfish aggression. All adult crayfish captured were identified to species, sexed, measured, and damaged appendages were scored as injuries. Data on instream habitat and water quality were also collected. Concentrations of nutrients and pesticides at all study sites were provided by scientists at the National Soil Erosion Research Laboratory. In Indiana, four species of crayfish were found; Orconectes rusticus, Orconectes immunis, Procambarus acutus and Cambarus bartonii. In Ohio; C. bartonii O. rusticus and O. immunis were captured. In Michigan, only Orconectes propinquus and C. bartonii were found. All sites surveyed had live captures of adult crayfish on at least one sample date. The highest abundance of adult crayfish (124 individuals) was recorded at the reference site in Michigan. The mean count of injuries per individual, frequency of injured individuals, and crayfish density varied among sites. A habitat diversity index and a water quality index were developed to assess site quality. A mixed model multiple regression analysis was used to correlate site quality index values with crayfish behavior response variables. We expect to see lower frequency of injuries in crayfish communities of ditches with high habitat diversity index values, high water quality index values, and low densities.

Loads of Nitrate, Total Phosphorus, and Suspended Solids from Indiana Watersheds Aubrey R. Bunch, U.S. Geological Survey Indiana-Kentucky Water Science Center

The transportation of nutrients and suspended solids such as sediment by freshwater systems has led to degradation of aquatic ecosystems around the world. Nutrient and suspended solid loads from Midwestern states to the Mississippi River are a major contributor to the Gulf of Mexico Hypoxic Zone, an area of very low dissolved oxygen concentration in the Gulf of Mexico. To better understand Indiana’s contribution of nutrients and suspended solids to the Mississippi River annual loads of nitrate, total phosphorus, and suspended solids were calculated for nine selected watersheds in Indiana using the load estimation model, S-LOADEST. Discrete water-quality samples collected monthly by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s Fixed Stations Monitoring Program from 2000-2010 and concurrent discharge data from United States Geological Survey streamflow gages were used to create load models. Annual nutrient and suspended solid loads varied across Indiana by watershed and hydrologic condition. Monitoring loads at large river sites in Indiana is important for assessing how the state influences loads in the Mississippi River Basin and in determining the effectiveness of best management practices in the state. Additionally, evaluation of loads from smaller upstream watersheds is important to characterize improvements at the local level and to identify priorities for reduction.

Microplastic Pollution in Indiana’s White River: An exploratory study (Poster) Lindsay Hylton and Jessique Ghezzi, Ball State University

Plastic material is now a ubiquitous source of marine pollution due to accidental release and careless discarding by its many users. Most of this pollution originates from sources on land, including surface waters. Microplastics- tiny plastic spheres and fragments, that are often not visible to the naked eye, are a recent growing environmental concern in both marine and freshwater ecosystems. Their chemical composition and large surface area make them capable of both leaching their toxic plasticizers and adhering to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in water. Microplastics are considered bioavailable for ingestion to various organisms throughout the food web, due to their small size, shape, and mobility in the water column. Therefore, when the pieces are ingested by wildlife they may transport these toxins to the base of the food chain, with the potential to bioaccumulate. While many studies have proven the abundance and danger of microplastics in the world’s oceans, far less research has been done on their presence and impact in freshwater ecosystems. This exploratory quantitative study aims to build on the findings of recent freshwater microplastic studies by reporting on the occurrence and types of microplastic pollution in the West Fork of Indiana’s White River. Samples taken in heavily populated watersheds are expected to have greater microplastic concentrations than those collected from areas of lower population. Thirty surface water samples were taken from three different bridge sites along the river over a four month period (August-November 2015). Samples were collected with a custom designed net and analyzed using NOAA’s recommended laboratory methods for the analysis of microplastics. The findings of this study will aid in filling the large knowledge gap in freshwater microplastic research, in addition to helping natural resource managers better understand the extent to which microplastic particles are polluting U.S. surface waters.

Quantifying Anthropogenic Nutrient Fluxes in a Modern Recreational Resevoir: Example from Chain O’Lakes State Park, Indiana (Poster) Tina M. Williams, Jennifer C. Latimer, Jase Hixson and Jeffery Stone, Indiana State University

Chain O’Lakes State Park (COLSP), in northern Indiana, is a popular destination for recreation. COLSP includes 2,718 acres with 9 interconnected kettle lakes and 4 satellite lakes. Over the last decade some of the lakes have experienced cyanobacteria blooms likely due to increased nutrient fluxes. The increasingly eutrophic conditions have compromised water quality and reduced recreational opportunities. Management at COLSP wants to reduce nutrient fluxes and return the lakes to more pristine conditions. Sediment cores were collected to evaluate temporal and spatial variability in sediment geochemistry from the lake system. In 2013, short (<1m) sediment cores were collected from 9 of the lakes and a longer (1.5m) core was taken from long lake, the largest lake in the system. the purpose of this project is to identify the temporal variability in sedimentary phosphorus (p) components. phosphorus is an important nutrient element that likely limits productivity on geologic time scales. detailed p geochemistry utilizes a sequential extraction technique to isolate the different sedimentary associations of p (i.e. associated with oxides, mineral fluxes, or organic matter) and has been completed on 46 samples from long lake. results from long lake suggests that total phosphorus (p) concentrations have increased slightly from 100 cm toward the surface; however, there are two transient intervals of elevated p concentrations. the first maxima occurs at ~15 cm and is accompanied by a peak in mineral p, suggesting this increase in total p may be related to increased erosion, possibly from agricultural runoff. the second maxima occurs at ~10 cm and is accompanied by an increase in organic p, suggesting this increase is associated with an influx of organic matter possibly related to a nearby septic system leak. ongoing work includes the evaluation of the shorter sediment cores from other lakes at colsp.

Sea Urchin: Recent Advances in Aquaculture Tazin Fahmi and Ahmed Mustafa, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Sea urchin have been considering as delicate food for many years in different regions in the world. Recently, they are increasingly getting importance in marine pharmaceuticals and in the research lab as test animal models. As they are getting importance, many people are trying to harvest the in artificial aquaculture but due to the low yield and poor quality proteins many of them have been depleted. During harvesting in the artificial aquaculture, handling, salinity, crowding and other factors can cause stress to the animals that leads to low yield. Since stress is causing loss to the aquaculture, it is important to determine the stress responses and identify the way of stress modulation without doing any harm to the animals as well as to the environment. To investigate the stress responses in sea urchin, physiological and immunological responses were studied in Arbacia punctulata, a purple sea urchin reared in recirculatory system in the lab. Sea urchins were harvested in aquaculture system in different groups - stressed and unstressed, treated with four different feed [control feed (salmon feed) and hydrogenated coconut oil (HCO)-supplemented salmon feed, sunflower oil (SO) - supplemented salmon feed and linseed oil (LO)-supplemented salmon feed]. In this experiment, we acquired the test animals and acclimated them for two weeks in optimal conditions. The experiment run for five weeks and the animals were sampled terminally at the end of five weeks. Condition factors, gonado-somatic index, packed cell volume, coelomic fluid protein, total and differential cell counts, and coelomocyte phagocytic capacity and respiratory burst activity were observed to measure the stress and immune response. All sea urchin groups survived and did well but sea urchins fed hydrogenated coconut oil (HCO)-supplemented salmon feed showed better responses followed by sea urchins fed linseed oil (LO)-supplemented salmon feed.

Smart Phone-based Quantitative Detection of Trace Heavy Metal in Aqueous Media in Real time using HSV Color Space. Samuel Ozeh, A. G. Agwu Nnanna, Purdue University Calumet and Justus Ndukaife, Purdue University, Purdue University Calumet Water Institute

The ability to frequently monitor water-borne pollutants is important to prevent inadvertent consumption of contaminated water. Conventional analytical instruments such as atomic absorption fluorescent spectrometer and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer are not amenable for such frequent monitoring need as they are expensive to purchase and maintain, require highly trained personnel, and require sample collection, transport to and testing at a lab. Thus there is a need to develop sensitive techniques for on-site detection of target water borne pollutants such as heavy metals and other ions. Smart phone based sensor systems are emerging as an elegant approach for on-site testing of water due to their widespread availability, simplicity and potential for remote contaminant detection. This paper presents a smart phone based colorimetric detection of low concentration heavy metals in water. Components of the Hue, Saturation and Value (HSV) color space was utilized in the development of an algorithm for the colorimetric detection. Experiments were conducted with Cr (VI), the reagent (1, 5 diphenyl carbazide + H2SO4) for various concentrations of Cr (VI) solution (10- 100ppb) in the ratio of 2:1 in a 1cm cuvette. The experiment which is in attempt to develop a point-of-use technique for high accuracy colorimetric analysis utilized the CMOS sensor of the smartphone to obtain the image which was subsequently analysed to obtain the HSV parameters using ImageJ software. Results showed that the color trajectory of the color wheel varied systematically with concentration. HS2 = 3E-06C2 - 0.0037C + 0.2127 was the empirical relationship between HS2 and concentration with a correlation coefficient R² = 0.9523 at constant V. Concentration data based on the colorimetric detection was validated using UV-vis spectrophotometry measurement technique. An excellent agreement between both techniques was obtained with a percentage difference of 3.88% in the concentration of an arbitrary sample.

The Effects of Annual Ryegrass and Gated Tile Drainage on Subsurface Nutrient Movement (Poster) Kris Green and Jessi Ghezzi, Ball State University

Fallow season soil degradation in agricultural settings is currently a concern for Midwest agricultural producers because nutrient leaching and soil erosion contributes to lost fertilizer input revenue and eutrophication of surface waters. The study objectives were to examine the relationship of overwintering ryegrass cover crop in conjunction with gated tile drainage to better understand soil nutrient movement in a stagnant soil water environment. It was hypothesized that the use of gated tile and cover crops would decrease N and P leaching as compared to conventional tile drainage. The study was conducted in northeastern Delaware County, Indiana through the fallow season months of fall 2015 to the spring of 2016. Site design consisted of a conventional tile drainage setup and a gated tile drainage setup on similar soil types to investigate how soil nitrogen and phosphorus are affected by the ryegrass cover crop. Soil and drainage effluent analysis utilized a modification of the indophenol blue method for NH4+, Griess-Illosvay method for NO3-, and Mehlich 3 extractions for P analysis. Statistical analysis utilized ANOVA. Implications from this study will seek to reduce future soil nutrient loss through proper timing and management of cover cop applications and through soil-water control methods.

Earth Science

Fort Wayne's Legendary Geologist: Frank Bursley Taylor, His Early Years, 1860-1900 Diane K. Baclawski, Michigan State University (retired)

Fort Wayne's native son, Frank Bursley Taylor, was a multi-faceted geo-scientist who made major contributions to the fields of glacial geology, the formation of the Great Lakes and Niagara Falls, and the theory of continental drift. He also wrote several papers in astronomy, and provided the scientific background for Fort Wayne's proposed Michigan & Erie Canal. He was employed by both the Canadian Geological Survey and USGS. His field studies encompassed the Great Lakes region, including Ontario, and also New England. Despite his many accomplishments, not much is known about his early life. Frank Bursley Taylor was born in 1860 in Fort Wayne to Robert Sherman and Fanny Taylor. The Taylors were a very accomplished family. Frank attended school in Fort Wayne and was greatly influenced by his high school geology teacher, Charles Dryer, an interesting character in his own right. Taylor enrolled in Harvard in 1882 as a special student; records show that he took classes in astronomy and geology, with Nathaniel Shaler and William M. Davis as instructors. Frank left Harvard in 1886 but was seriously limited because of his poor health. He stayed at sanitariums in New York, and his parents took him to Colorado in 1889 in hope that the western climate would be beneficial. The years between 1886 and 1892 alternated between bouts of illness and recuperation with occasional excursions in summer when his health improved. His interest in astronomy prompted him to work on papers that were privately published. He began work as an amateur glacialist in 1892. From 1892 to 1900 Frank published 31 papers on glacial geology and worked with some of the finest geologists in the country.

Best Management Practices and Soil Water Quality: Adams County, Indiana H. Hurst and S. A. Isiorho , Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Best Management Practices is a term, when used in the context of soil and water management, describes measures taken to control contaminants in a watershed. Best Management Practices have come under fire by some, and yet are prized by others. This report investigates the effectiveness of four different Best Management Practices: no till farming, cover crop usage, controlled drainage systems, and the two-stage ditch. A small Adams County farm that utilizes these methods was chosen as the study site. Water and soil samples were collected from the farm, nearby neighbors that use conventional farming methods, and streams that run alongside both properties during the fall season. Comparisons of water quality parameters and soil hydraulic conductivity were made. Data from the soil test showed that soil using Best Management Practices can have greater hydraulic conductivity (K-value). With a K-value of 4.704 x 10-4 cm/sec compared to 1.734 x 10-4 cm/sec from the field using conventional farming practices. There appears to be no trend or correlation between the locations when the water chemistry (nitrates, nitrites and phosphates) data was examined. The water chemistry mixed results suggests more observation and testing through the planting and growing seasons.

Biogeochemistry of anoxic lakes in Northern Indiana William P. Gilhooly III, Christine Picard, Shan Khan, Fotis Fouskas, Broxton Bird, and Horia Petrache, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Merrell A. Johnson, Indiana-University Purdue University Fort Wayne

Low oxygen is a known environmental stressor in aquatic environments throughout the world. Late summer stratification leads to bottom water anoxia for many northern Indiana lakes, conditions which may promote bacterial photosynthesis. Unlike oxygenic photosynthesis conducted by algae, phototrophic bacteria can oxidize iron or hydrogen sulfide and fix carbon dioxide in the presence of sunlight without producing oxygen using a process known as anoxygenic photosynthesis. We present water column profiles (dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH) paired with metals and sulfur chemistry from three Indiana lakes. The oxygen profiles of Martin Lake reveal a unique peak of oxygen production within the anoxic bottom water, and the redox chemistry is likely dominated by iron cycling rather than sulfur cycling. In contrast, Lake of the Woods contains dissolved sulfate (~ 0.4 mM) and sulfide that retains a sulfur isotope signature that is consistent with microbial sulfate reduction. In previous studies, dissolved sulfide and purple sulfur bacteria have been reported for Smith Hole; however, our repeat visits in 2011, 2013, and 2015 have yet to observe this bloom of bacteria. Genetic data is currently being generated to characterize the microbial community within the water column of these lakes.

Changing channel morphology of the Maumee River in eastern Allen County, Indiana. P. W. O'Malley& S. A. Isiorho, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

“One axiom associated with rivers is that what appears complex is even more so upon further investigation” (David L. Rosgen). This axiom is particularly apt when considering morphological change occurring along the Maumee River near Fort Wayne, both as intended and unintended consequences of flood control efforts and urban development there. Bank erosion, measured using aerial photographs, has been particularly severe along the northern margin of the Maumee downstream from the Coliseum Avenue Bridge, having exceeded 8 meters over the last 55 years. The degree of bank erosion was found to be more severe along this reach than erosion observed along the margins of the nearest adjacent meander. Various possible factors, such as increased impervious surfaces, contributing to the greater erosion occurring downstream from the bridge are considered with the most probable causes being identified as loss of riparian forest buffer stemming from construction of a bicycle pathway and operation of a golf course adjacent to the affected bank.

CT-imaging and virtual endocast reconstruction in Carnivoramorpha (Mammalia) Michelle Spaulding, Purdue University North Central

The evolution of the large mammalian brain is one of the classical hallmarks of this class of vertebrates, and this organ has convergently expanded even further within many mammalian orders. Recent work focusing on the evolution of the carnivoran brain revealed that neocortex expansion began not at the base of Carnivoramorpha (the total group of taxa that are more closely related to Carnivora than to other mammalian crown clades or to extinct creodonts within Ferae), as previously hypothesized, but rather within a more restricted subclade—the Carnivoraformes. Viverravidae (the basalmost group within Carnivoramorpha) possess little neocortex expansion relative to carnivoramorphan outgroups, displaying smooth cerebral hemispheres, and no expansion of the cerebrum (posteriorly over the midbrain, anteriorly toward the olfactory bulbs, laterally to expand the forebrain, or dorsally). Four fossil endocasts from various sub-clades are presented ranging in age from 52 to 47 Ma, show-casing these evolutionary trends. In addition to these findings, the methodology for the reconstruct of digital endocasts is presented. Starting with processing of the slices generated from the source CT scans through formatting the resulting products for 3D-printing (for research and education/outreach uses) on a wide variety of rapid prototyping machines. I highlight how manageable, and quick working with CT data has become with the growing availability of high-resolution CT scans and increasingly affordable computing power.

Geochemical variability of roof shales in the Carbondale Group (Pennsylvanian) of southwestern Indiana (Poster) William S. Elliott, Jr., University of Southern Indiana

Southwest Indiana is underlain by Middle to Upper Pennsylvanian strata on the southern margin of the Illinois Basin consisting of rhythmic deposits of limestone, sandstone, shale, and coal. USI 1-32, an exploratory well for coalbed methane drilled in 2009, is located at 37.951°N and 87.670°W south of the campus of the University of Southern Indiana in Vanderburgh County, Indiana. The total depth of the well is 237.7 m (780 ft), with core intervals from: (1) West Franklin Limestone of the Shelburn Formation; (2) Springfield Coal of the Petersburg Formation; (3) Houchin Creek Coal and overlying Excello Shale of the Petersburg Formation; (4) Survant Coal of the Linton Formation; and (5) Seelyville Coal of the Staunton Formation. In this study, trace element analysis revealed maximum uranium concentration in the black shale above the Springfield Coal to be 48 ppm. In addition, elevated concentrations of Mo (>100 ppm), Cr (210 ppm), and V (796 ppm) were also measured for the black shale above the Springfield Coal. Likewise, uranium concentrations in the Excello Shale ranged from 17 to 80 ppm, with corresponding elevated concentrations of Mo (>100 ppm), Cr (90 to 150 ppm) and V (150 to 1,830 ppm). Additionally, these roof shales are enriched in organic matter (TOC of 0.9 to 27.4 wt. percent), and thus, are consistent with previous studies linking elevated uranium concentrations to enriched organic matter in marine black shales. Specifically, the roof shales overlying the Springfield and Houchin Creek coals are interpreted to have been deposited in a marine setting, as evidenced by elevated trace metal concentration, sulfur content, and the presence of marine fossils. Finally, the organic content and thickness of Pennsylvanian black shales in the Illinois Basin may be viable targets for the production of shale gas.

Getting down to earth along the IPFW Creek. (Poster) Shelby Johnston and King S Isiorho, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

As water moves downstream, it carries sediments that become sorted and rounded. The purpose of this research project, a requirement for an upper level geology course, is to determine the water content of soil, overall composition of sediments (gravel, sand, etc.), and grain size changes (if it does change) along a river profile, using a creek that runs through the Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) campus. In the 2014 Fall semester, grain size distribution analysis was performed on 14 soil samples collected along the length of the creek. Fourteen soil samples were also collected from same sites in the 2015 Spring and Fall semesters resulting in three sets of data. Collected data indicates water content and grain size distribution vary along the creek profile. Water content for the Fall 2014 samples has a range of ~20 -28%. This is closely mimicked with the Fall 2015 samples with a range 20-25%. However the Spring 2015 data begins ~28% and falls to ~24% over the course of the creek profile. This could be due to a higher influx of water during the spring season keeping the sediments waterlogged. Certain soil samples contained significantly lower water content than others, that, when examined more closely, revealed different soil profiles containing less silt-clays and higher sand-gravel. The soil composition data ranges from coarse to fine grained sands, silts, and clays with less gravel present in the recent samples. This could be due to heavy flooding experienced in this area as well as recent construction on campus. Knowing the cause(s) of finning sediments downstream in the creek may help in managing the stream and probably other rivers in northern Indiana. This is an ongoing research and new data will be presented.

Herd Lake: The Recent Sediment History of a Varved, Landslide-Dammed Lake (Poster) Bethany Kile, Jeffery R. Stone, Jennifer C. Latimer, Indiana State University, Mark Shapley, Bruce Finney, and Sira Barnes, Idaho State University

Herd Lake formed during a landslide event that dammed a river valley approximately 2,500 years ago. The lake is located approximately 35 miles south of Challis, Idaho. Herd Lake exhibits very high productivity and sediment burial rates compared to other lakes in the Salmon River basin, resulting in nearly continuous, thick, seasonal laminations (varves) for nearly the entire history of the lake. In 2011, a 53-cm surface core was collected and sub-sampled by individual lamellae, producing a sub-annually resolved sediment record extending back to AD1923. We analyzed changes in fossil diatom assemblages, major/minor element concentrations, and detailed phosphorus (P) geochemistry from this record to explore the recent history of the lake basin. Here we present the 88-year record of downcore transitions in these indicators from the Herd Lake core and explore the landscape/watershed/lake interactions. Diatoms, which are sensitive environmental indicators, are a golden-brown algae common in freshwater lake systems. The alternating laminations in the sediment record are, at least in-part, driven by seasonal changes in diatom productivity in the lake. Fossil diatom assemblages are commonly used in lake sediment archives to evaluate changes in nutrient availability over time, while detailed P geochemistry is used to evaluate variations in nutrient burial over time using a sequential extraction technique. Changes in total elemental concentrations in the lake sediments will also be evaluated by ICP-OES following microwave assisted attack by strong acids to determine heavy metal loads. Together these geochemical proxies will be used to explore landscape/watershed/lake interactions. Combining the geochemical and fossil diatom assemblage results will allow us to reconstruct the temporal variability in biogeochemical cycling of nutrients and metals within this aquatic system.

Monitoring Groundwater Properties in a Wetland on the IPFW Campus (Poster) Ross Yeater and K Solomon Isiorho, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Groundwater testing and monitoring is an important part of environmental management in urban and rural settings. This study examines the water properties in a well field located on the Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) campus to detect contaminants and data trends and overall groundwater quality on the campus. The well field is located by a creek that drains into the St. Joseph River. Nitrate, nitrite pH, temperature, conductivity, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen and head elevation were measured over a 56 day testing period (late September – mid November) in 15 of the 20 installed wells. Soil samples were also collected from a hand-dug burrow pit at the location to determine the hydraulic conductivity of the soil. The hydraulic conductivity was obtained using the Hazen method and aided in determining bed characteristics. The nitrate and nitrite levels ranged from 0.0 – 20.9 and 0.0 – 0.029 mg/L, respectively. A few readings were above EPA regulated contaminant levels for drinking water (10 and 1.0 mg/L for nitrate and nitrite respectively. Trends of nitrate and nitrite often show an inverse relationship, suggesting that nitrate is being reduced to nitrite via iron content and/or organic activity. There is a positive correlation between the head elevation and dissolved oxygen (DO) with the seasonal decrease in temperature. Grid wells that have elevations varying less that one inch are assumed to penetrate the same layer and head differences of these wells were used to identify a NE flow direction. This is in agreement with previous studies under the assumption that the creek is an influent stream and receives runoff and drainage from the IPFW campus. New data will be presented as it is an ongoing research project.

Ordovician Biostratigraphy of Cincinnatian Fossils (Poster) Mason Frauhiger, Michael Stoller, Benjamin Dattilo, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

The Cincinnati region, encompassing southwestern Ohio, southeastern Indiana, and northern Kentucky, contains numerous outcrops of abundantly fossiliferous limestones and shales of Ordovician (450 million years old) age. These sediments record the presence of an epicontinental sea during the Ordovician period. The abundance of well-preserved marine fossils and negligible post-depositional alteration have made the Cincinnati region a favorite subject of paleontological research since the mid-1800's. Because the fossils are so abundant and extensively exposed, these rocks hold real potential for understanding ecological and evolutionary processes that occur over time periods of 20,000 to 100,000 years—far greater spans than can be observed directly, but shorter than is typically documented in the fossil record. The key to unlocking this potential is to correlate (match) thin layers from one location to another across the region to establish a series of precise “time slices” that form a temporal and spatial framework on which to study the process of evolutionary change. One tool for accomplishing this correlation is to create a biostratigraphic record of the various species in the various layers at each outcrop. Although past works have documented some outcrops, there are many more localities that remain. We collected large limestone samples from localities at Southgate, Lawrenceburg, and Madison in Indiana, and at Milton, Kentucky. Each sample was washed and photographed and for each sample we estimated the abundance of each fossil species using an abundance ranking 0 (absent), 1 (rare), 2 (common) and 3 (abundant). Using the Paleontological Statistics Version 3.10 program (Hammer 2015), these abundance data were analyzed by means of cluster analysis and various ordination algorithms. The results appear to be concordant with previous interpretations of ecological preferences for these fossil species. For example, one large faunal cluster may correspond to a deep subtidal environment, and includes specimens of Rafinesquina, Platystrophia, Plectorthis, Flexicalymene, Isotelus, as well as thin, branching bryozoans, all of which have been associated with deeper subtidal environments in previous studies. The clustered taxa correlated with corresponding localities allows for identification of biofacies (rocks containing fossils from a certain environment) within a locality and potentially between localities. This would constrain high-resolution correlations of beds.

Osteology of Miocene fossil fishes from the Nevada Test Site (Poster) Michael Stoller, Indiana University- Purdue University Fort Wayne

Fossilized remains of an unknown species of cyprinidontiformes (top minnows/pupfish) fish were recovered on the grounds of the Nevada Test Site. The specimens were found in Miocene volcaniclastic lake sediments and range in size up to 10 cm. The original bone material of most specimens was missing, leaving high-fidelity natural molds in hard silicified silt. Silicone rubber molding compound was used to reproduce the original appearance of the bones. Images of these rubber casts were made with a high-resolution, flat-bed scanner and with a scanning electron microscope. From these images it is possible to compare the skeletal structure of these fish to modern fish, and to other Miocene fish fossils. Individual anatomical structures were recognized by utilizing a disassembled carp skull. Notable structures are key to the reconstruction of lost species. Although the species has not yet been determined, it appears that only one species is represented, suggesting a stressed environment in these volcanic lakes. The high-resolution casts also show growth lines on the scales and ostracods in the gut, giving a clue to the trophic structure of the ecological community. This study gives us a window into the late Cenozoic era, and the environment of the fish. Like their ancient counterparts, modern topminnows live in extreme habitats. Finding how these fish met their end could give us insight into how we might protect similar, threatened, species today.

The Integrating Spatial Educational Experiences (Isee) App Darrell G. Schulze, Purdue University and the Isee Network

The Integrating Spatial Educational Experiences (Isee) app for the Apple iPad is now available for free in the Apple App Store (search "Isee soils"). The app allows a user to explore maps of selected soil properties for seven states, including Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Ohio, Texas, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. The hillshade base map is based on the best available elevation data from the National Elevation Dataset (NED) and other sources. Transparent overlays depicting soil properties such as dominant soil parent material, natural soil drainage classes, surface soil colors and other properties are based on the most detailed soil survey data available from the USDA NRCS. Additional maps from other sources provide additional information for some areas. Some of the maps can be queried. A tap on the map at a point of interest results in one or more popup boxes that explain the map class at that point. In addition to displaying maps online, maps can also be loaded into the app for use off line. This allows highly detailed maps to be used in the field without the need for a cell phone connection, greatly facilitating use of the app for teaching, learning, and research.

The Joys of Teaching: Effects of Legumes on Growing Corn (Poster) J. Ghezzi, Ball State University

Companion planting in gardening and agriculture is the establishment of two or more plant species in close proximity so that some cultural benefit is derived; in other words, it is two plants that when grown together, somehow help eachother. In an introductory soil science course, students grew soybeans, alfalfa, or clover in a container with corn to see if, and how, members of the legume family can benefit corn. Students took weekly measurements of plant growth and made visual assessments for N-deficiencies for 11 weeks. At that point, students removed legumes and dissected root nodules to look at the N-fixing mechanisms. Students were asked a series of questions to observe proficiency of learning outcomes in relation to identifying N deficiencies and understanding legume benefits to plants and the N cycle. Students showed enhanced proficiencies with learning objectives utilizing a hands-on teaching approach.

The Mitchell Aquifer and karst groundwater drainage in the Mississippian Blue River Group (Visean) in South- Central Indiana Garre A. Conner: Pangea Geoservices, Evansville, Indiana

The hydrostratigraphic name Mitchell Aquifer was recently introduced by Conner (2015) with description of stratigraphic cave tiers, karst springs, and karst spring cutoffs characteristic of the Kirby Watershed in Monroe County, Indiana and including the outcrop area of the Mississippian Blue River Group (Visean) in south-central Indiana. This paper provides additional description and GIS reference for the Mitchell Aquifer including its range, watersheds, hydrology, and habitat for cave dwelling threatened or endangered species which may be useful for environmental planning, groundwater studies, and geological or engineering investigations. The Mitchell Aquifer extends throughout portions of a 15 county area of 6,177 Mi2 (15,999 Km2) in south-central Indiana. The outcrop area of the Blue River Group within these counties has an area of 1,348 Mi2 (3,491 Km2) extending 150 miles (241 Km) from Putnam County, west of Indianapolis, south to Harrison County along the Ohio River. The Mitchell Aquifer in its northern range is covered by Wisconsin and Pre- Wisconsin glacial tills and outwash deposits in the Martinsville Hills physiographic division. Speleogenic cave enlargement in three lithostratigraphic cave tiers has been documented in the Crawford Upland and Mitchell Plateau physiographic divisions, with local variations observed in the White River, Patoka River, and Ohio River basins owing significantly to variations in the limestone lithology and the presence or absence of sandstone and shale caprock overlying the Blue River Group. Most karst springs are contact springs with vadose flow, but upstream caves exhibit localized phreatic flow in relatively shallow phreatic loops often associated with minor variations in bedrock dip or lithology changes. Other karst springs have artesian flow through post enlargement deeper phreatic loops where vertical shafts function as rise-pits. Water passes upward through two or more cave tiers and to the surface. Lower tier caves in the southern range of the Mitchell Aquifer enlarged at grade with a deep valley cutting stage of the White River and Ohio River. After cave enlargement the streams and valleys were aggraded by glacial outwash deposits that buried the lower springs and water passed upward to resurge from middle or upper tier caves where hydrologic connections allow. Many of the springs have historical significance and have been used at times for water sources. Some counties have implemented karst ordinances to protect cave and spring resources. Cave springs in the Mitchell Aquifer are found in many conservation areas: The Nature Conservancy, Hoosier National Forest Lost River Unit, O’Bannon Woods State Park, Wyandotte State Recreation Area, and Sycamore Land Trust.

Trackways of the American Crocodile, Northwestern Costa Rica: Implications for Crocodylian Ichnology James O. Farlow, Nathan J. Robinson, Frank V. Paladino, Indiana-Purdue University Fort Wayne, Peter L. Falkingham, Liverpool John Moores University and Anthony J. Martin, Emory University

Fossil trackways attributed to crocodylians and their close relatives have been documented from numerous Mesozoic and Cenozoic localities, prompting interest in traces of extant crocodylians for comparative purposes. Most observations of tracks of living crocodylians have been made in captivity, and most made on small individuals. We documented several trackways of large (total length 2 m or more) American crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus) in the Ventanas and Tamarindo Estuaries (Guanacaste Province, northwestern Costa Rica). Trackways were observed in the early morning, having been made by crocodiles the previous night. The best-formed footprints were made in wet sand, even recording scale impressions of the foot sole. Manus (forefoot) prints have five digits, pes (hindfoot) prints four. Digits I-III of both manus and pes prints bear claw marks. Interdigital angle I-V of the manus is about 140-150 degrees, and interdigital angle I-IV of the pes about 40-50 degrees. The pes is plantigrade. Pes prints are larger than manus prints. Apart from claw marks, digit I and the heel of the pes are the most deeply impressed parts of footprints. Trackways are wide-gauge. Pes prints are positioned just behind, sometimes overlapping, manus prints of the same side. Manus prints rotate sharply outward with respect to the crocodile’s direction of movement, while pes prints are nearly parallel to that direction. The distance between the inner margins of left and right prints is usually greater for manus than pes prints. Claws of both manus and pes may create curved, concave-inward drag marks during autopodial protraction. The tail mark varies in depth and clarity, in shape from nearly linear to markedly sinuous, and in position relative to the trackway midline. American crocodile footprints and trackways are quite similar to those observed in other extant crocodylian species, indicating substantial conservatism in traces across the group.

When Field research does not work: The Hydrogeology weekend field trip. S. A. Isiorho, P. W. O’Malley, D. Deifenbaugh, C. Pendrick, D. Cole, H. Hurst, R. Yeater, H. Simpson and M. Kalakay, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

A hydrogeology course without field and lab work is not worth any amount of water. The fall 2015 hydrogeology course taught at Indiana University Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) included a six-hour weekend field trip directed to demonstrating some of the materials taught in class. Eagle Marsh, Allen County, Indiana, which is within an hour’s drive of the IPFW campus, was selected as the field site. The aims of the field trip were to examine the water chemistry of some ponds within Eagle Marsh and to identify groundwater flow direction using seepage meters, minipiezometers and a well nest. A further objective was to determine if there is any groundwater discharge into the ponds within the marsh. Water samples from the marsh were tested for nitrate, nitrite, and the pH, temperature, conductivity, total dissolved solid (TDS) and dissolved oxygen (DO) were measured in-situ. A Guelph permeameter was used to determine the hydraulic conductivity of the soils. The water chemistry shows that most of the ponds within the marsh have neutral pH, low conductivity, and low nitrate except for drainage ditch where the nitrate level was 18 ppm, above the 10ppm upper limit for drinking water standard. Seepage measurement and minipiezometers indicate groundwater recharge within the pond, that is, the marsh is losing water. Seepage velocity from seepage meter was 1.177 x 10-3 cm/sec (6.18 m/yr). The constructed well field was not successful even after three attempts. Analyses of soil samples indicate that the soil is the silty clay type. There is a strong positive correlation (r=0.999) between hydraulic conductivity and TDS as should be expected. Also, DO has a strong negative correlation with temperature (r=-0.939). In-spite of the failure of the permeameter and well nest, the weekend fieldwork demonstrated how some of the topics and instrument discussed in lecture were used. The failure of equipment or method is also a learning experience of itself.

Where is the water coming from? A seep study in the Upper Wabash River Basin (Poster) Dan Deifenbaugh & KS Isiorho, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

A groundwater seepage point at the base of a rocky outcrop along the north bank of the upper Wabash River was studied to provide a general description of its hydrogeological properties in relationship to the Silurian and Devonian Carbonates Aquifer System of Wabash County and identify a recharge source. Water samples were collected in November from the seep and analyzed for pH, temperature, dissolved solids, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, phosphates, nitrates, and nitrites. The water discharge rate was determined using weir discharge measurements and by directly measuring the volume collected in a graduated cylinder. Water samples were also collected from the Wabash River, Rager Creek and nearby water well and analyzed for the same chemical parameters, which were compared to data from the seep. The groundwater flow direction was also assessed using minipiezometers to determine if the Wabash River and the Rager Creek sections are influent or effluent streams. Average discharge rates ranged from 6.10 ml/s to 19.5 ml/s. Discharge measurements proved that there was a consistent flow of water from this seep, even during late September through early October of 2015, when precipitation rates were lower than earlier in the year. Chemical analysis of the water samples showed some similarity between the residential well and the seep. However, Rager Creek’s water chemistry was dissimilar to the other two locations. Phosphate measurements for November 3 and November 4, 2015 were 0.03 mg/L for the residential well and 0.09 mg/L for the seep, while phosphates were at 1.01 mg/L for Rager Creek. For November 5 and November 6, 2015, phosphate measurements were 0.08 mg/L for the residential well and 0.19 mg/L for the seep, while phosphates were at 2.75 mg/L for Rager Creek. For November 12 and November 13, 2015, phosphate measurements were 0.19 mg/L for the residential well and 0.03 mg/L for the seep, while phosphates were at 2.75 mg/L for Rager Creek. This research project is ongoing and new data will be presented.

Wind Power Potential for Central Delaware County, IN Eric Hedin, Ball State University

Utilizing measured wind speed data over a two-year period, the wind power potential for central Delaware County, IN, near Ball State University has been estimated. The economic feasibility of wind turbines in this area is calculated based on the site-specific wind speed frequency distribution and the power curve performance estimates of five commercial wind turbines. Results show that four out of the five selected turbines could be expected to achieve payoff of combined lifetime costs well within the turbines’ estimated lifetimes. Cumulative savings on the cost of electrical energy are expected to range from $2 million to $4 million for a 25-year turbine lifetime. Physical factors affecting the power output of the turbines, and uncertainties in the estimation of the wind power and economic feasibility projections will be discussed.

Microbiology & Molecular Biology

Bdellovibrio bacteriovorous: The Hydrodynamic Hunter Nick Miller: Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

The Gram-negative bacterium Bdellovibrio bacteriovorous (BV) is a model bacterial predator that predates other Gram- negative bacteria, and has been suggested as a living antibiotic. During the free-living phase of the BV life-cycle, each bacterium swims in solution until it encounters an acceptable host for propagation. Early models predicted this motion to be Brownian-like behavior. Through recent theoretical and experimental data, we have shown that hydrodynamic forces play a critical role in BV hunting. We have observed that BV appears to be hydrodynamically captured by surfaces and other small geometric features. This same hydrodynamic forcing is witnessed in BV prey, Escherichia coli, with an almost identical outcome. In this short discourse I will explore the implications of these findings on BV survival strategies.

Antiviral activity comparison among variants of Avaren-Fc, an HIV microbicide candidate. (Poster) Nehal Ninad (1, 2); Lauren Kasinger (2); Nobuyuki Matoba (2,3). 1. University of Southern Indiana 2. Owensboro Cancer Research Program, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Owensboro, KY. 3. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY.

Avaren-Fc (AvFc) is an HIV microbicide candidate with low-nanomolar antiviral activity against multiple HIV-1 and HIV-2 isolates. It is a recombinant chimeric protein consisting of the oligomannose-specific lectin Avaren and the fragment crystallizable (Fc) region of the human immunoglobulin (IgG), whereby Avaren and Fc are genetically linked together via a tetrapeptide GGGS sequence. The objective of this study is to answer whether a higher antiviral activity can be achieved by modifying the length of the linker sequence. Here, two new AvFc variants were constructed: 1) AvFc Long Linker (LL) and 2) AvFc No Linker (NL). AvFc LL has four extra glycine residues inserted at the beginning of the linker sequence (GGGGGGGS), while AvFc NL has the linker sequence entirely removed. These new constructs along with AvFc Regular Linker (RL) were separately expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana plants using a tobamovirus transient overexpression vector. The AvFc proteins (RL, LL, and NL) were extracted and purified using a two-step purification process (Protein A chromatography followed by CHT chromatography). The HIV envelope glycoprotein gp120-capture enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (gp120-ELISAs) were performed on the crude plant extracts and the purified proteins to obtain the expression levels and 50% effective concentration (EC50) values respectively. Binding affinity (KD) of each AvFc to its target, gp120, was obtained by Surface Plasmon Resonance, while 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values were obtained using HIV neutralization assays for each purified protein. Our results showed that AvFc RL exhibited the highest expression level in N. benthamiana, and the lowest EC50, IC50, and KD values when compared with the other two proteins. Consequently, the data suggests that the modification of the linker length between Avaren and Fc has a limited effect on improving the antiviral activity of this HIV microbicide candidate.

The characterization of a mouse model generated by the Cre-lox system for use in diabetes research (Poster) Cody Bennett and Bartholomew A. Pederson, Ball State University

Diabetes affects an ever-growing proportion of humanity. In attempting to control high blood sugar levels, insulin is commonly used. However, unintentional induction of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can occur as a result of insulin therapy. Sustained low blood sugar levels can lead to cognitive deficiency and death of neurons. Glycogen has been implicated as serving a protective role during hypoglycemia, and is primarily stored in the astrocytes, where it can be metabolized as needed. In attempting to understand diabetic mechanisms and find ways to mitigate the deleterious effects of hypoglycemia, the use of genetically-modified mice has become an essential tool. We used the Cre-lox system in an attempt to disrupt the expression of glycogen synthase specifically in the brain. This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of glucose to the macromolecule glycogen. Here we report characterization of this mouse model in terms of metabolite levels and tolerance to glucose and insulin. We found that these mice have greatly reduced brain glycogen stores, making them a useful model to study the functions and importance of brain glycogen and to aid in the understanding of diabetes and the development of alternative diabetic therapies.

Affinity of Cholesterol for Phospholipids (Poster) Htayni P. Sui (1), Jacob J. Kinnun (2), Bruce D. Ray (2), and Stephen R. Wassall (2) 1. Southport High School, 2. Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, School of Science

Cholesterol's differential affinity for different phospholipids drives the formation of domains that serve as the platform for resident proteins. We are trying to develop a method to measure affinity of cholesterol for phospholipids. Our method uses cyclodextrin, which is made up of sugar molecules arranged in a ring that can bind cholesterol within a central cavity. When added to large unilamellar vesicles prepared from a phospholipid and cholesterol, it pulls out cholesterol molecules according to how strongly they are bound to the phospholipid. Using a deuterated analog of cholesterol, [3α- 2H1]cholesterol, we plan to measure the relative amount of cholesterol in LUV and cyclodextrin by solid-state 2H NMR spectroscopy. As a proof of concept, LUV prepared from 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) containing [3α-2H1]cholesterol was incubated with cyclodextrin. Separate NMR signals from cholesterol in the two environments were observed and relative intensity of the signals gave an estimate of binding affinity.

An examination of the effect of red yeast rice extract on B cell functions (Poster) Nathanael Black, Philip Albiniak, Heather A. Bruns, Ball State University

Red yeast rice (RYR) is a medicinal supplement used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is produced through the fermentation of rice by Monascus purpureus. RYR has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, likely due to the presence of specific secondary metabolites called monacolins. Monacolin K is one of the monacolins found in RYR and is also known as lovastatin. Statins are a class of drugs that lower cholesterol through their inhibition of the cholesterol synthesis pathway. Lovastatin is present in RYR at a much lower concentration than the therapeutic concentration given to hyperlipidemic patients, and thus the cholesterol-lowering effects of RYR are thought to be a result of the presence of several monacolin family members. Statin drugs, including lovastatin, have also been shown to have immunomodulatory properties. B lymphocytes are important components of an immune response. They have important roles in activating other immune cells and producing antibodies, which are proteins essential for defense against a variety of pathogens. Given the immunomodulatory ability of statin drugs and the presence of lovastatin as well as other monacolin family members in RYR, the goal of this study is to examine the effect of RYR extract on B cell activation and functions.

An examination of the effect of red yeast rice extract on macrophage functions (Poster) Stephanie Konkle, Sarah Hummel, Heather A. Bruns, Philip Albiniak, Ball State University

Red yeast rice (RYR) is a medicinal food that is produced by fermenting Monascus purpureus on steamed rice. It has been used extensively in traditional Chinese food to promote “good circulation”. Recent studies have demonstrated the ability of RYR to lower cholesterol levels, which is attributed to the presence of specific secondary metabolites, monacolins. Monacolin K (also known as lovastatin) is one of the monacolins found in RYR. Its presence in RYR is at a much lower concentration than the therapeutic concentration of lovastatin given to hyperlipidemic patients, and thus the cholesterol-lowering effects of RYR are thought to be a result of the presence of several monacolin family members. In addition to their lipid-lowering capabilities, statin drugs also have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is the result of the quick response of the immune system to pathogen invasion. While the inflammatory response is important for limiting infection, it can also be very damaging to host tissue. Thus, our lab is interested in investigating natural compounds that can control the inflammatory response. Since RYR can lower cholesterol levels with only a low concentration of lovastatin present, we are investigating the ability of RYR to alter immune function. We have solubilized RYR powder and determined the concentration of lovastatin in the extract. Macrophages are cells that are the primary directors of an inflammatory response. Using a macrophage cell line, we are investigating the effect of RYR extract on macrophage functions and simultaneously identifying the presence of other monacolin family members present in the extract.

An examination of the effect of red yeast rice extract on macrophage functions Sarah Hummel, Stephanie Konkle, Heather A. Bruns, Philip Albiniak, Ball State University

Assessing Mitochondrial Population Genetics of the Eastern Box Turtle, Terrapene c. carolina in Indiana Montana Campbell, Steven J. A. Kimble, and Rod. N Williams, Purdue University

The eastern box turtle, Terrapene c. carolina is currently a species of special concern in Indiana and across many states within its range. Box turtles have cryptic lifestyles, and their dispersal ability is largely unknown, which makes their population structure difficult to predict. In order to develop a more accurate conservation plan for this species, it is imperative that a population genetic structure be established. To approach this challenge, we examined mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase loci from 29 samples collected across two counties in south central Indiana. Haplotypes were then compared to those already evaluated with biparentally inherited markers. Of the 29 samples tested for mitochondrial region, 22 of those individuals were unique. All individuals were then compared with their collection location. Despite the geographic clustering of the 29 individuals, a neighbor-joining tree suggests a genetically unstructured population, as all individuals shared the same branch. This indicates that the overall genetic health of the population is diverse, which is important for the conservation of this species as it indicates the turtles disperse enough within the range to maintain a healthy gene flow. Through this analysis, we can better understand box turtle genetic structure, which is valuable information for the biology of this species.

Assessment of DPH Effects on Sperm-Egg ZP binding and Protein Expression of ß-1, 4- Galactosyltransferase and Proacrosin (Poster) Kayla Mughmaw, Clare L. Chatot, Ball State University

Dilantin (DPH) is an anti-epileptic drug (AED) that has been linked to fertility problems in both men and women. It is one of the most widely prescribed AEDs in the USA accounting for approximately 52% of AED prescriptions. Males taking DPH have decreased fertility rate with effects on sperm morphology and motility compared to men who are not taking the medication. This project will help determine whether or not the administration of DPH affects sperm binding to the egg’s ZP (a protective membrane around the egg) in the mouse and if DPH affects two important proteins that play a critical role in the process of mouse sperm-egg ZP binding, ß-1, 4-Galactosyltransferase and proacrosin. Results comparing the ability of the vehicle control and DPH treated sperm to bind to the egg ZP has found a 60% reduction in the number of bound sperm per egg directly around the maximum circumference after treatment with DPH (1.05±0.06) compared to the NaOH vehicle control (2.65±0.24). Additional studies are examining DPH effects on ß-1, 4-Galactosyltransferase and proacrosin that mediate sperm ZP binding.

Characterization of EspA and EspB Roles in Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli Plant Colonization (Poster) Rachel Kunnen, Carlie Erne, Jasmine Moore, and Lindsay M Gielda, Purdue University-North Central

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) infections represent a significant public health threat, causing a severe food borne diarrheal disease that may progress to hemorrhage colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome characterized by acute renal failure. E. coli O157:H7 is one of the more common serotypes in U.S. outbreaks, and is transmitted through consumption of contaminated foods, including raw vegetables. Significant numbers of EHEC are known to be retained after washing on several types of plants, demonstrating the bacteria’s ability to tightly adhere to plant tissues. The membrane protein EspA, and the secreted protein EspB have been shown to be necessary for E. coli O157:H7’s ability to localize and efficiently bind to guard cells of the plant stomata. However, the specific roles of EspA and EspB in bacterial adherence, and the nature of the adherence to the surface is unknown. Our current hypothesis is that E. coli O157:H7 translocation of EspA and EspB are necessary for bacterial adherence to plant guard cells. We study the activity of these proteins, as well as the transcriptional regulation of this system. LacZ-promoter fusions were constructed to examine the various environmental conditions that lead to expression of the sepL-espADBoperon. Functional EspA and EspB His- tagged fusions were constructed for protein purification and immunoprecipitation assays. This will lead to the identification of plant protein binding partners. Elucidating the specific adherence mechanism of EHEC to the plant surface will lead to the development of novel techniques to disrupt this interaction, thereby decreasing transmission to humans.

Classification of Antibiotic Properties from Local Soil Microbes and a Screening for Anti-Inflammatory Substances (Poster) Catherine Wheeler, Jocelyne Hanquier, Madison McKinney, and Colleen Doci, Marian University

There are limited treatment options available for canine Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and the development of novel therapies has been hindered by the scarcity of research funding. This is compounded by the fact that leukemia has the capacity to become drug resistant, rendering the few available treatments ineffective. The use of dual-action compounds that possess antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties may therefore prove to be a better treatment for CLL. Macrolides are a notable example of this class of compounds produced by soil-resident Actinobacteria. Thus, we hypothesized that uncharacterized soil bacteria may be a potential source of novel macrolide-like compounds possessing both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. To test this hypothesis, we have isolated and characterized bacteria from local soil, including assessment of antimicrobial activity against common infectious bacterial strains and anti- inflammatory properties in vitro. The findings of this study could support soil bacteria as a source of novel therapeutic drugs and could potentially contribute to the development of new treatment options for CLL.

Determining Genes Required for Degradation of Translocon-Clogging Proteins (Poster) Christopher J. Indovina, Sarah M. Engle, Ashleigh D. South, Jacob C. Davis, and Eric M. Rubenstein, Ball State University

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) provides an environment that is conducive to protein folding and stability prior to shuttling to further destinations within or outside of the cell. The ER translocon is a molecular channel responsible for translocation (or movement) of proteins across the ER membrane. Proteins may become stuck within the translocon channel during translocation, resulting in a clogged channel that is incapable of transporting other proteins across the membrane. Obstructing proteins are targeted for degradation via the conserved ER-resident enzyme Hrd1. It is unlikely that Hrd1 recognizes and targets translocon-stalled proteins alone, as it requires the function of several other proteins to perform its other known functions. Better understanding of this system may prove useful in fighting high cholesterol in humans as, under certain circumstances, the major protein component of low-density lipoproteins (bad cholesterol) stalls within the translocon and prevents normal function of the channel. This work aims to build upon previous work in screening the yeast gene knockout collection for partner proteins requisite to the identification and degradation of translocon-blocking proteins. The functioning of this pathway can be linked to yeast growth by using a model translocon-clogging protein fused to a metabolic enzyme. Yeast strains that are able to degrade the clogging protein will not grow well under selective conditions; however, if a strain lacks the ability to degrade the clogging protein, the cells will be able to grow (because the metabolic enzyme will be stabilized). Through use of a recently developed high-throughput liquid growth-based screen, the growth rate of each strain of the yeast gene knockout collection will be analyzed to identify candidates involved in clearing clogged translocons

Discovery and characterization of a novel miRNA recalcitrant CCND1/MRCK fusion gene in Mantle Cell Lymphoma Chioniso. Patience Masamha. Butler University. Todd A. Albrecht and Eric J. Wagner. University of Texas Medical Branch

Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) is a B-cell malignancy characterized by aberrant cyclin D1 expression. Normal B-cells do not express cyclin D1. In MCL a t(11:14)(q13;q32) chromosomal translocation event places the CCND1 oncogene under the control of the IgH enhancer resulting in cyclin D1 transactivation. Interestingly, the normal half-life of full length cyclin D1 mRNA is only 30 minutes since its ~3.1kb untranslated region is a target for miRNA regulation. Some MCL patients have tumors that express cyclin D1 transcripts with truncated 3ÚTRs that are highly proliferative resulting in a two-year reduction in survival. In this case the protein coding region remains unaltered. However, truncation of the 3ÚTR eliminates multiple miRNA binding sites, increasing the stability of the transcript hence facilitating translation. A small subset of MCL patients have a mutation that generates a premature optimal polyadenylation signal (PAS). However, in the majority of the MCL patients, the mechanism that results in truncation of the CCND1 3ÚTR is still unknown. We report that we have identified a novel CCND1/MRCK gene fusion in MCL cell lines and 8/13 patient samples. A second translocation event results in a chimera where the CCND1 open reading frame remains unaltered. However, the 3ÚTR consists of sequences from both CCND1 and MRCK and uses a canonical PAS derived from MRCK. Consequently, the resulting fusion transcript is refractory to miRNA regulation. RNAi designed to specifically target either the CCND1 or the MRCK sequence results in similar levels of cyclin D1 protein knockdown. These findings mirror reports of a recurrent FGFR3/TACC3 gene fusion that causes the truncation of the FGFR3 3ÚTR in glioblastoma that eliminates of miRNA binding sites. Considering that CCNDI overexpression is a current therapeutic target for MCL, the novel chimera will enable more precise design of targeted RNA therapeutics that selectively target the aberrant transcripts. 62

Domestic Pigeons: The Dilution Series Dan Smith, Jacob Swartley, and Stuart Kurtz, Goshen College

Domestic pigeons, Columba livia, have impressive genetic diversity along with well-documented breeding histories, and thus they are an exemplary species for the study of the genetic origins of pigmentation and for the establishment of a model avian species. Multiple unique pigmentation phenotypes have been investigated, and some causative mutations in specific genes have been identified. The candidate geneSlc45a2, which may code for a solute carrier involved in pigmentation, has been identified as a potential causative gene for the pale and extreme dilute phenotypes in pigeons. Intense, pale, dilute, and extreme dilute are considered together as the dilution series in domestic pigeons and are characterized by decreasing pigment expression. The smallest decrease in pigmentation occurs in the pale phenotype, and extreme dilute appears almost white, with very little pigment expression. These phenotypes were demonstrated to be alleles through classical genetics, and Shapiro et al. reported a causative mutation for dilute in Slc45a2. Genetic sequencing of the protein coding regions of Slc45a2has been conducted for pale, extreme dilute, and wild type individuals. Two possible causative mutations were identified: a P95L mutation was found in the extreme dilute specimens, and a V384A mutation was found in the pale specimens. RNA has been isolated, reverse transcribed to cDNA, and sequenced; all exons were discovered to be present in each phenotype.

Effects of Epigallocatechin gallate on photoreceptor degeneration Zebrafish model assessed by Visual behavior (Poster) Menna Hassan, Prahatha Venkatraman and Yuk Fai Leung, Purdue University

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is an antioxidant drug compound that has been studied in relation to cell death. However, hardly any work has been done to elucidate the effects of EGCG in photoreceptor (PR) degeneration model. In our lab, we are investigating the effects of EGCG using a Zebrafish model which harbors a mutation in the gene encoding a subunit of cone phosphodiesterase-6 (pde6c) enzyme. This mutation results in degeneration of both cones and rods leading to blindness in the fish model. Therefore, by using this model we can analyze the effects of EGCG on PR degeneration. We treated the mutants and controls with EGCG and assessed vision using a visual behavior assay. This assay, called the Visual Motor Response (VMR), is a startle response exhibited by the fish in response to light stimulus. Thus, only larvae possessing vision show the startle whereas larvae with a loss of vision do not show this response. The larvae were treated with EGCG starting 5 days post fertilization (dpf) and the VMR was performed from 6-8 dpf. The locomotor responses were compared between untreated pde6cand EGCG treated pde6c larvae. Since photoreceptors degeneration in pde6c mutants begins at 4 dpf, we chose to treat the larvae at 5 dpf to investigate if EGCG could rescue this cell death. However, in this condition, we did not observe discernible differences in vision caused by EGCG treatment. Following this we will investigate if EGCG pre-treatment can prevent cell death in these mutants. The VMR assays have a run time of 6.5 hours in our current set up. This includes three hours and thirty minutes of dark adaptation of the larvae followed by 30 minutes of light on and 30 minutes of light off stimuli. The light on and off are repeated three times which are called the technical replicates. We average the responses across the technical replicates for a given stimulus to analyze VMR. Owing to the length of the assay, we wanted to test how reducing the dark adaptation (DA) duration from three hours and thirty minutes (longer DA) to thirty minutes (shorter DA) affects the VMR responses. To test this, we recorded VMR of wildtype larvae in shorter DA and compared them with responses of wildtype subject to longer DA. We found that in the shorter DA condition, the VMR was slightly higher than that observed in the VMR with longer DA. We are planning to investigate this further by reducing the periods of DA and stimuli to test how those affect VMR. This approach will give us a clearer understanding of the components of the assay and help us to set up a faster assay in our lab.

Effects of pax2a mutations on craniofacial development in zebrafish John M. Dunn, Hanover College, Stephanie L. Lerach, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, Stacy L. Solin, Genetics, Development, and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, Maura McGrail, Genetics, Development, and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, Lisa A. Schimmenti, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, Pamela R. Pretorius, Hanover College

Proper development of the eye is critical for visual function of the vertebrate eye; however, the role of the eye as an organizer for early craniofacial patterning is not as well understood. A transcription factor, pax2a is critical for proper eye formation and is proposed to have a role in craniofacial development. To investigate the effects of pax2a on craniofacial development, TALEN mutants were generated, targeting the paired domain. In the F1 generation, five novel pax2a mutant alleles were recovered; these included both frameshifts and in-frame deletions. Two lines, pax2a^+1/+1 and pax2a^Δ9/Δ9 were initially characterized. Homozygous mutant animals were initially identified at 1dpf due to no isthmus formation, a feature observed in a previously generated ENU pax2a mutant, pax2^atu29/tu29. At 3dpf, pax2a^+1/+1 embryos had small eyes, cardiac edema, and kidney edema. Less than 10% of the pax2a^+1/+1 embryos survived to 7dpf, consistent with previously published pax2^atu29/tu29 allele data. In contrast, 3dpf pax2a^ Δ9/ Δ9 embryos were phenotypically indistinguishable from wild-type embryos, with over 70% survival to 7dpf. Studies investigating the impact of disrupted pax2a expression on craniofacial development are ongoing, however assessment of gross morphology indicates that both jaw formation and forebrain development are impacted. By understanding the complex relationship between pax2a and genes involved in craniofacial development, an understanding of how genetic and non-genetic factors influence early developmental processes.

Examining the alkaline protease activity of the unique species Halobacillus. Sp. BBL2006 Joshua Anger and Gretchen Kirchner, Indiana University Southeast

Alkaline proteases are used in a wide variety of commercial applications including laundry detergents, leather tanning, food processing, and pharmaceutical therapies. Our research investigates the possible salt tolerance of the alkaline protease activity of the unique bacteria, Halobacillus sp. BBL2006, previously isolated from a sulfur rich salt spring in Big Bone Lick State Park in Boone County, KY. Using whole genome sequencing, a gene homologous to an alkaline protease protein found in Bacillus subtilis has been identified and isolated. The protease gene will be subcloned into an N-terminal polyhistidine (6xHis) tag vector for subsequent purification of the protein with nickel chelating resin. The activity of the purified protease protein will then be measured under a variety of salt concentrations.

Fast identification of genome-wide non-canonical spliced regions, including IRE1α targeted regions with Read- Split-Fly algorithm Yongsheng Bai, Jeff Kinne , Aaron Cox, Feng Jiang, Justin R. Hassler, Randal J. Kaufman Indiana State University, Sanford-Burnham-Prebys Medical Discovery Institute

In recent years next-generation sequencing technologies have revolutionized the field. The “Read-Split-Walk” (RSW) and “Read-Split-Run” (RSR) methods were developed to identify genome-wide non-canonical spliced regions, including IRE1α targeted regions using RNA-Seq data. As the significant amounts of genome/transcriptome data have been sequenced, we have advanced a new memory-efficient version of algorithm “Read-Split-Fly” (RSF), which can load the whole genome into the memory and process multiple samples to detect non-canonical spliced regions including IRE1α targeted regions in a fast speed. The RSF combines the strengths of considering each unmapped read separately with the memory- efficiency of the new algorithm and higher sensitivity of rescuing false negative reads to achieve a combination of memory-efficiency, better sensitivity and specificity for identifying novel splice junction sites at a genome-wide level when compared to previous RSW and RSR algorithms. The RSF algorithm also outputs the spliced sequences for further downstream biological function analysis.

Genomic analysis of Rhodoferax antarcticus, a cold-adapted photosynthetic bacterium from an Antarctic microbial mat (Poster) Jennifer M. Baker(1), Austing W. Newell(1), Tingting Zhao(2), Wesley D. Swingley(3), Carli J. Riester(1), Blair Skinner (1), Deborah O. Jung(4), Marie Asao(5), Min Chen(6), Patrick Loughlin(6), Hao Pan(6), Simon Lin(6), Nicole Li(6), Jacob Shaw(7), Mindy Prado(7), Chris Sherman(7), Xianglu Li(7), Joseph Tang(7), Michael T. Madigan(4), Robert E. Blankenship(7), Jeffrey W. Touchman(2)†, and W. Matthew Sattley(1), 1. Division of Natural Sciences, Indiana Wesleyan University, 2. School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, (†present address: Monsanto Company, Woodland, CA,), 3. Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 4. Department of Microbiology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, 5. Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 6. School of Biological Sciences (A08), The University of Sydney, NSW 2006 Sydney, Australia 7. Departments of Biology and Chemistry, Washington University St. Louis, Saint Louis, MO

Isolated from an Antarctic microbial mat, Rhodoferax antarcticus strain AB is a motile, metabolically versatile purple nonsulfur bacterium that grows primarily as a phototroph (anoxic/light) but is also capable of chemoorganotrophic (oxic/dark) metabolisms. With optimal growth occurring from 15−18 °C, strains of R. antarcticus are unusual in that they are the only cultured anoxygenic phototrophs to show clear cold adaptation. Also of note, the intracytoplasmic photosynthetic membranes so prominent in purple bacteria have not been observed in R. antarcticus. With these distinctions in mind, we present a preliminary analysis of the genome of R. antarcticus str. AB. The single, circular chromosome of 3.8 Mbp has a GC content of 59.1% and harbors 4036 open reading frames (ORFs). In addition, the bacterium contains a sizable plasmid (198.6 Kbp) with a GC content of 48.4% and 226 ORFs that comprise about 5.5% of the total genetic content. Genes for a type II photosynthetic reaction center and for light harvesting complexes I and II were identified and, as in other purple bacteria, are localized within a superoperonal photosynthesis gene cluster. Consistent with previous physiological studies that have shown a strong capacity for nitrogen fixation in cells of R. antarcticus, a nitrogen fixation gene cluster containing a molybdenum-type nitrogenase was confirmed in the R. antarcticus genome. Genes encoding two forms of the Calvin cycle enzyme ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase (RubisCO) were identified, a feature hypothesized to provide autotrophic flexibility in varying conditions. Lastly, genes allowing for assembly of flagella and type IV pili are present in the R. antarcticus genome, suggesting the potential importance of multiple mechanisms of motility in a bacterium that may, at different times, experience either a planktonic or microbial mat-based lifestyle.

Inhibition of host Rho GTPase CDC42 decreases intracellular Salmonella Typhimurium populations and alters macrophage surface protein expression. Callum Walker, Heather Bruns, Susan McDowell, Ball State University

Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) is a Gram-negative, intracellular bacterial pathogen that infects a wide variety of hosts including humans. It is estimated that yearly in the U.S. there are about 19,000 hospitalizations and 380 deaths caused by infection with this pathogen. S. Typhimurium replicates intracellularly and can invade both non-phagocytic and phagocytic cells including epithelial cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells of the intestine. Using a specialized secretion system, S. Typhimurium can secrete bacterial proteins into the host cell that interact with host Rho GTPases, molecular switches involved in many cellular signaling pathways. This results in the pathogen being taken into the host cell where it further modifies the host cytoskeleton to create a unique replication niche called the Salmonella-containing vacuole. One of the Rho GTPases involved in the signaling pathway of actin cytoskeleton rearrangement is CDC42. Using a novel, reversible inhibitor of CDC42, we show a decreased intracellular population of S. Typhimurium when host cell CDC42 is inhibited pre-infection. No alterations in intracellular S. Typhimurium populations were observed when host CDC42 was inhibited post-infection. Since macrophages are one of the targets for S. Typhimurium replication, we also examined macrophage surface protein expression and found a significant increase in the expression of MHC Class-II molecules when host CDC42 was inhibited pre-infection. These findings suggest that inhibitors of CDC42 may be used in conjunction with other therapeutic drugs to help limit the spread of S. Typhimurium.

Initial Compatibility Assessment of Five Alkane Monooxygenases of Aquabacterium sp strain NJ01 and Electron Transport Proteins from Pseudomonas fluorescens (Poster) Kortany Baker, Emma Magers, Ashleigh Skiles, Steven Ly, Hisako Masuda, Indiana University Kokomo

The gram negative soil bacterium Aquabacterium strain NJ01 is able to metabolize linear alkanes (C8-C16) and it carries five different copies of a non-heme diiron alkane monooxygenases (AlkB)[1]. AlkB is responsible for the initial step of alkane metabolism in aerobic bacteria. The alkane-inducible expression of alkB genes in Aquabacterium was previously confirmed using RT-PCR. Other bacterial strains are also capable of metabolizing alkanes as a source of energy and carbon. Wildtype Pseudomonas fluorescens is able to grow on media with alkane as the sole source of carbon. A mutant of this strain (KOB2Δ1) contains all the enzymes necessary for alkane metabolism, except for AlkB [2]. Each of the five different genes that encode for AlkB from the Aquabacterium strain was individually cloned in the mutant strain of Pseudomonas fluorescens KOB2Δ1. All five genes were successfully cloned into the mutant for heterologous expression, but none of the clones were able to grow on an alkane as a sole energy source. Our result is puzzling due to the high AlkB sequence homology between two organisms. We are in the process of deciphering why Aquabacterium strain NJ01 contains five different copies of one gene, and whether unique traits are associated with each gene. We will also investigate the biochemical basis for the lack of AlkB activity in KOB2Δ1 strain.

Investigation of PDX1.2 and PDX2 Protein-Protein Interactions in Arabidopsis thaliana (Poster) Julie A. Bethany, John Grant and Elizabeth Rueschhoff, Indiana University Southeast

An ongoing investigation in our laboratory centers on investigating protein interactions of the Pyridoxal 5’-Phosphate Synthase protein complex. This protein complex is responsible for catalyzing the formation of Pyridoxal 5’-Phosphate, which is the active vitamer of vitamin B6, a required coenzyme for a wide range of enzymatic reactions. These reactions include amino acid biosynthesis, hemoglobin biosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism and neurotransmitter biosynthesis. The complex is made from 24 different protein subunits in a barrel-type structure. The inner ring is formed by 12 PDX1 proteins, of which there are three homologs: PDX1.1, PDX1.2 and PDX1.3. PDX1.1 and PDX1.3 are 95% similar and have been well characterized. However, PDX1.2 is only 60% similar to the other two homologs and expressed at very low levels. This homolog is known to be transcriptionally expressed under biotic and abiotic stresses, but remains otherwise uncharacterized. The outer ring of the synthase complex is composed 12 PDX2 proteins. Mutations of the PDX2 protein are embryo lethal, making study of this protein difficult in planta. Preliminary evidence suggests that the proteins of the PLP synthase complex interact with proteins outside of the synthase. We are focusing our efforts on characterizing putative protein interactions of the understudied PDX1.2 and PDX2 proteins in order to increase our knowledge base regarding the function of these proteins within the cell. We have completed Yeast 2-Hybrid screening of these proteins and are proceeding with confirmation of protein interactions in planta.

Isolation and characterization of antibacterial secondary metabolites produced by salt spring isolates (Poster) Jance Carter and David Treves, Indiana University Southeast

Quorum sensing is a widely documented mechanism for multicellular coordination among bacteria. Population density is the trigger responsible inducing this response and key activities that may offer a competitive advantage such as pigment production, biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance are regulated by quorum sensing.. Inhibition of quorum sensing in gram negative bacteria has been observed by members of the Halobacillus genus with secondary metabolites implicated in this inhibitory capability. This ability may mitigate any competitive advantage certain gram negative species have due to quorum sensing and enable Halobacillus to be the dominant bacterial genus in salt springs. Although specific compounds have been identified in this process, it is possible that additional metabolites capable of inhibition have yet to be discovered. Furthermore, compounds capable of quorum sensing inhibition may not be homologous throughout the genus. Preliminary results from several isolates collected from a salt spring at Big Bone Lick State Park have demonstrated inhibitory properties. Using overlay and disc diffusion techniques, on both marine and starch agar, inhibition of E. coli, Serratia marcescens, and Staphylococcus epidermidis has been observed. Gene sequencing and analysis through Genbank have most closely linked the isolates to Halobacillus trueperi. Future work will involve a comprehensive screen for inhibitory secondary metabolites produced by salt spring isolates and undertake identification of the inhibitory compounds produced.

Knockout of a gene in Halobacillus with homology to the Bacillus subtilis sinR gene (Poster) Danielle LaFleur and Gretchen Kirchner, Indiana University Southeast

A gene coding for a polypeptide with a high degree of amino acid homology to the sinR gene product of Bacillus subtilis has been identified in a recently sequenced Halobacillus isolate. The sinR gene has previously been described as a major regulator of biofilm formation in B. subtilis. This study involves the isolation of the sinR gene homolog from Halobacillus BBL2006 and its subsequent inactivation by insertion of a chloramphenicol acetyl transferase (CAT) antibiotic resistance gene. This construct will be used to transform the Halobacillus BBL2006 strain in an effort to determine if the sinR homolog plays a role in the regulation of biofilm formation in Halobacillus species.

Male Infertility Due to Dilantin: Examining Potential Decrease in Sperm Motility and CatSper Calcium Channel Abundance in Mouse Sperm Cells (Poster) Megan Hubbard, Clare Chatot, Ball State University

Dilantin, whose chemical name is diphenylhydantoin (DPH), is an anti-epileptic drug (AED) that has been shown to cause fertility issues in both women and men. Men experience infertility while taking AEDs due to sperm morphological and sperm motility changes. CatSper is a calcium channel complex required for successful fertilization that is localized in sperm. It has not been determined whether or not the presence of DPH directly affects the CatSper channel complex leading to infertility. The goal of these experiments is to determine if CatSper activity is altered by DPH treatment in vitro and to determine if treatment of male mice with DPH will alter the protein and RNA levels of CatSper in sperm. The direct addition of DPH to isolated sperm resulted in comparable levels of progressive motility (DPH 24%, NaOH 29%), non- progressive motility (DPH 17%, NaOH 21%) and immotility (DPH 59%, NaOH 50%) after one hour of treatment compared to the control. Ongoing experiments are examining the levels of CatSper protein and RNA expression levels in sperm to determine if DPH has an effect on CatSper expression thus altering motility.

Molecular analysis of the bacterial community in boreal peatlands (Poster) Avery M. Sampson., John L. McKillip, Allison R. Rober, Kevin H. Wyatt, Ball State University

16s is a powerful genetic tool commonly used to evaluate the biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems. In this study, we used 16s analysis to evaluate the composition of heterotrophic bacteria in three northern peatlands, including a rich, moderate- rich and poor fen. Ordination analysis of the 16s results demonstrated that bacterial communities were distinct among the three peatlands. The poor fen showed high levels of Proteobacteria (63.70%), specifically, the presence of the familyPseudomonadaceae (16.44%). Unlike the poor and rich fens, the moderate-rich fen showed high levels of Firmicutes (23.60%), particularly Lachnospiraceae (5.46%) and Ruminococcaceae (6.21%) and an unknown Clostridiales family (9.27%). Given that Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae are degraders of peat, changes in environmental conditions (e.g, nutrient enrichment) that shift the community composition in poor fens to resemble moderate-rich fens could stimulate greater decomposition and release of CO2 to the atmosphere.

Pigmentation Genetics of Domestic Pigeons: Pink-Eyed Dilute Stuart Kurtz, Goshen College, Nhu-Thinh Nguyen, University of Texas at Arlington, Dan Smith, Goshen College, John Fondon III, University of Texas at Arlington

Columba livia, the Rock Pigeon, is known to portray a wide variety of phenotypes. Breeders have obtained a vast knowledge of trait inheritance from selective breeding. The genetic diversity and breeding history make pigeons an exemplary species for an investigation into the genetic origins of pigmentation and for the establishment of a model avian species. The oculocutaneous albinism type II gene (OCA2) has been reported to cause the pink-eyed dilution (pd) phenotype in mice. The pd phenotype is associated with a lack of pigment in skin or feathers as well as in the eyes causing them to appear pink. OCA2 was chosen as a candidate gene for the pd phenotype in pigeons. The gene was amplified using PCR techniques and sequenced using Sanger sequencing. An R278X mutation was identified on the seventh exon of OCA2. The premature stop codon predicts the pd birds to have only about the first third of the protein to be coded. This mutation has 100% association with pd birds sequenced.

Raft Busters: A Molecular Role for DHA in Biological Membranes? Jacob J. Kinnun (1), Justin A. Williams (1), William Stillwell (2), Robert Bittman (3), Saame Raza Shaikh (4), and Stephen R. Wassall (1) 1. Department of Physics, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis2. Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis 3. Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Queens College of CUNY, Flushing, NY 11367 4. Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC

Dietary consumption of fish oils rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6), has a wide variety of health benefits. However, a complete molecular mechanism is yet to be elucidated. One model that has emerged from biochemical and imaging studies of cells postulates that n-3 PUFAs are taken up into phospholipids in the plasma membrane and, due to their high disorder and aversion for cholesterol, reorganize lipid rafts. To investigate this model, we studied lipid bilayers composed of SM (sphingomyelin), PDPC (1-palmitoyl-2- docosahexaenoylphosphatidylcholine), and cholesterol (1:1:1 mol). The molecular organization of each lipid was investigated with solid-state 2H NMR using deuterated analogs of the lipids. Spectral components assigned to ordered raft-like domains and disordered non-raft domains were resolved, from which the composition of the domains and the order within them could be determined. Most of the SM (84%) and cholesterol (88%) was found in the raft-like domain, together with a substantial amount of PDPC (70%). Despite the infiltration of PDPC there appears to be minimal effect on the order of SM or cholesterol. We speculate that PDPC molecules sequester into small groups minimizing the contact of DHA chains with cholesterol, thereby interrupting the continuity of the raft-like environment.

Restoration of Mature let-7 MircoRNA Through Small Molecule Discovery (Poster) James Welch1, Sunghyun (Sander) Myoung1, Sergey Savinov2, Bradley P. Loren3, David Thompson3 and, Andrea Kasinski1, Department of Biological Sciences1 and Chemistry3 Purdue University, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Massachusetts2

MicroRNA’s (miRNA) are a class of small non-coding RNA molecules that pair non-perfectly with messenger RNA to repress protein translation. Most miRNAs are transcribed and then processed twice, firstly by the RNAse enzyme Drosha and then by Dicer. Although all miRNAs share this mode of biogenesis, an additional layer of processing has been identified for one miRNA family, the let-7 family. Let-7 processing by Drosha and Dicer is blocked when unprocessed let- 7 is bound by the RNA binding protein LIN28. Because fully processed let-7 family members act to repress the oncogenic genes RAS, MYC and LIN28, which are involved in differentiation, proliferation, and development, reduced mature let- 7levels contribute to uncontrolled growth in cancer. We hypothesis that small molecules can be discovered that interfere with LIN28-let-7 binding which would then allow mature tumor-suppressive let-7 to be produced. A library of FDA approved compounds will be tested for their ability to disrupt the let-7-LIN28 interactions in a high-throughput screen using a fluorescent polarization assay. Positive hits will be examined in cell culture and eventually chemically refined in an attempt to increase affinity. The crystallography structure of LIN28 bound to let-7 has been solved and shows a large binding pocket that recognizes a GGAG motif found in all let-7 family members. Modeling in silico has resulted in several small molecules that mimic the GGAG structure. These rationally designed small molecules will also be tested using the fluorescent polarization assay.

Role of Brain Glycogen in Motor Memory (Poster) Todd R. Myers, Staci A. Weaver, Shannon N. Sharp, and Bartholomew A. Pederson, Ball State University

Approximately 30 million people are affected by diabetes in the United States alone. Insulin used to treat diabetics can lead to a variety of deleterious effects due to induced hypoglycemia. Insulin induced hypoglycemia is of particular interest to us in the fact that it has been shown to impair memory. Glycogen in the brain has been proposed to be important for memory formation. In response to lowered blood glucose, brain glycogen may undergo glycogenolysis and glycolysis eventually producing the transportable molecule lactate. It is thought that this lactate is transported from astrocytes to neurons where it can be utilized as an alternative energy source to minimize memory loss. In order test this hypothesis, mice with and without brain glycogen will be subjected to a motor memory instrument, rotarod, while in various glycemic states. Wildtype mice, as well as mice that lack glycogen in the brain, will be administered either insulin to alter blood glucose levels, or vehicle. After the rotarod, brain tissue will be harvested and subjected to a western blot in order to track the expression of memory proteins. Preliminary studies suggest that mice lacking brain glycogen have impaired memory when subjected to low blood glucose levels. If this is confirmed, it is expected that mice lacking brain glycogen will also have lower expression of memory proteins.

Testing the Antimicrobial Properties of Quaternary Ammonium Salt Berberine chloride (Poster) Cara C. Wilhelm, School of Liberal Arts and Sciences,Universityof Saint Francis

The use of berberine in China can be dated back to 3,000 years ago, and has long been known as a homeopathic herbal remedy for bacterial and fungal infections. The Kirby-Bauer method was developed by W. Kirby and A.W. Bauer in 1966, and is described as the measure of a potential antibiotic compound’s ability to inhibit bacterial growth. The ability of berberine chloride to act as an antimicrobial agent against E. coli was tested using the Kirby-Bauer method. Further testing was done on both gram positive and gram negative species of bacteria using this same procedure. These other strains that were tested included C. fecundii, K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa, M. roseus and E. faecalis, all of which are resistant to berberine chloride when compared to respective controls. M. luteus, S. epidermidis, and E. coli had susceptibility to berberine chloride ranging from intermediate to complete susceptibility when compared to controls. K. pneumoniae was resistant to berberine chloride. M. luteus did not display an active resistance to berberine chloride. Berberine chloride is not effective against E. coli at concentrations less than 0.010 mg per 100 μL. Berberine chloride demonstrates efficacy against both gram positive and gram negative strains, but not in a broad-spectrum setting. The minimum inhibitory concentrations for M. luteus, S. epidermidis, E. coli, and S. aureus were found using a standard dilution series.

The Preliminary Observations of Spermiogenesis in the Elegant Earless Lizard, Holbrookia Elegans (Poster) Erin Vollmer, Abiola Laguda, Justin Rheubert, Kevin Gribbins, University of Indianapolis, Biology Department, University of Findlay, Findlay OH

Understanding the variation in sperm maturation is important for the purposes of phylogenetic studies as well as ecological and toxicological research. This study serves to add to the knowledge of spermiogenesis, which remains understudied within Squamata. The purpose of this study was to examine the cellular events during spermiogenesis and provide the first histological description of the spermatids within the testis of Holbrookia elegans. Three male specimens were collected from southeastern AZ during the month of June in 2015. Testicular tissue was processed for transmission electron microscopy, sectioned, and analyzed to determine the major morphological features of spermiogenesis. Spermiogenesis can be divided into three phases as sperm mature; acrosome development, nuclear elongation, and flagellar development. Most of the ontogenic features of spermiogenesis in H. elegans appear to be highly conserved and similar to what has been observed in other saurians studied to date. Two key characteristics that may be unique to H. elegans are a flatter basal perforatorial plate and chromatin extensions into the clear nuclear shoulders of the flagellar fossa caudally. This lizard does share several characters (filamentous chromatin condensation, nuclear lacunae, well- developed manchette, shallow nuclear acrosomal indentation) with several sceloporine lizards, which are found in the same family, Iguinidae. Though these data provide valuable insight to the already growing information on spermiogenesis in phrynosomatid lizards, caution must be maintained on its robustness until more genera are studied in this lineage of saurians.

The process of Rag5 conferred resistance to soybean aphids (Poster) Kumud Joshi and Vamsi Nalam, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Soybean aphid (Aphis glycines) is an economically important pest of soybean (Glycine max).the US, crop loss due to aphid infestation is estimated annually at $3.6-$4.9 billion. Current management strategies include scouting, genetic and chemical control which are time consuming and expensive. Host Plant Resistance (HPR) provides an attractive alternative to control aphid populations by suppressing their growth and reproduction in plants. Recent developments in host plant resistance studies have identified at least five Rag (Resistance against Aphis glycines, 1-5). However, the mechanisms of resistance associated with the Rag genes are yet to be identified. The plant introduction (PI) 567301B contains the Rag5 gene that provides antixenotic resistance indicating the presence of a host factor that alters insect behavior resulting in poor aphid performance. PI563701B plants display resistance to aphids in whole plant assays and not in detached leaf assays. This data suggests that the resistance is induced in plant sections other than leaves and works as a systemic response that requires the whole plant. Therefore, the objective is to determine the systemic source of Rag5 mediated resistance. Electrical penetration graph analysis to determine aphid feeding behavior and artificial feeding assays using petiole exudates collected from Rag5 plants will be used in conjunction with grafting experiments to gain insight into the source of Rag5 resistance. These assays will provide a better understanding of HPR and aid in the improvement of aphid management.

The Role of Glycogen in Hypoglycemia-induced Memory Loss (Poster) Daniel C. Smith, Staci A. Weaver, and Sarah E. Canada, Ball State University; Bartholomew A. Pederson, Indiana School of Medicine-Muncie

Hypoglycemia is a frequent deleterious side effect experienced by diabetics receiving intensive insulin therapy; a condition which can induce a variety of neurological ailments including memory loss. Glycogen metabolism has been reported to play a role in the memory formation pathway. However, whether glycogen may serve a role in the prevention of hypoglycemia-induced memory loss is unclear. We investigated this question using glycogen synthase knock-out mice, which lack brain glycogen, utilizing an associative memory assessment (Inhibitory Avoidance). The genetically altered mice, in addition to wild-type controls, were fasted and administered insulin to induce hypoglycemic conditions analogous to those experienced by recipients of aberrant intensive insulin treatment. The mice were then subjected to an inhibitory avoidance (IA) cognitive assessment; on day 1 of the IA the mice received training (mild stimulus upon entry into chamber); this was followed by memory assessment 24 hours following training. Additionally, this was performed with saline-injected controls for mice of each genotype. The insulin-treated wild-type mice showed a reduction in memory compared to the saline-treated wild-type mice. Interestingly, no significant reduction in memory was observed between the saline-treated and insulin-treated mice lacking brain glycogen. Additionally, no difference in memory was detected when comparing saline-treated wild-type mice with the saline-treated mice lacking brain glycogen. These data illustrate that in our mouse model, brain glycogen does not improve memory in either the normoglycemic state or during hypoglycemia. These intriguing findings demonstrate the need for further investigation of the role of glycogen during various glycemic conditions.

The transcription factor MIST1 regulates secretory cell homeostasis and stress responses through newly identified target genes (Poster) Katherine M. Strelau, David A. Hess, and Stephen F. Konieczny, Department of Biological Sciences and the Purdue Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University

Pancreatic acinar cells produce more protein than any other cell in the body and have the potential to cause pancreatic diseases if they undergo cell stress. If there is a buildup in the amount of misfolded proteins in the cell and it cannot accommodate the increased strain, a cell state termed ER stress ensues. This initiates the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR), which is a series of cell changes governed by the activation of transcription factors that enable the cell to adapt to the elevated workload and survive the added stress. One of these transcription factors has been shown to directly activate MIST1, a protein linked to maintaining secretory cell health. Our goal was to establish the role that MIST1 plays in combating ER stress and regulating secretory cell homeostasis. Genome-wide screening was performed in order to identify possible MIST1 gene targets. Various cell culture techniques were then used to investigate MIST1’s affect on these putative targets. Specifically, it was found that induction of MIST1 resulted in the altered expression of genes directly related to secretion and ER stress recovery. These changes were also observed when ER stress was induced, indicating that MIST1 was likely responsible for regulating the overall homeostasis of the cell. Interestingly, it was also determined that MIST1 was capable of regulating the UPR as a whole, directly controlling the expression of other transcription factors responsible for diminishing the negative effects of ER stress. In conclusion, MIST1 not only targets large numbers of secretory genes and stress-related proteins, but it also directly controls UPR target genes and the UPR itself. Our research on the role of MIST1 in the UPR pathway has great importance in the medical field in terms of developing drugs to combat stress-related pancreatic diseases.

Visual motor response optimization and polydatin drug analysis on rod cells in zebrafish (Poster) Ryan Wyer, Logan Ganzen, Purdue University, and Yuk Fai Leung, Purdue University

Zebrafish possess an eye structure comparable to that of the human eye, enabling them to be a viable model for study on human eye disease and its subsequent testing on medicine for restoring eye function. The Leung lab of Purdue University has been working on development of a drug to restore sight lost by human eye disease, focusing on the rod cells of the eye, using zebrafish as their model for the past 8 years. A strain of transgenic zebrafish (identified as Q344X) functions as the disease model, as it has been associated with the development of autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (ADRP), a human eye disease resulting in loss of vision due to mutations at position 344 in rhodopsin—the photosensitive pigment in rod cells—which in turn hinders their ability to reliable send and receive signals. Since rod cells specifically deal with low- light vision, visual motor response (VMR) is one of the methods used by the lab to monitor the effectiveness of the different drugs on the fish. This experiment serves two purposes; both to find an optimal light intensity to run VMR at, as well as to test the viability of the drug polydatin, which may have ties to inhibiting the decay of rod cells, as it has been shown to prevent or reduce injury to other tissues. Experiments were run with different numbers of neutral density filters— screens used to limit the amount of light entering the chamber—as well as varying intensities of light to find the minimal amount of low-light stimulation required to facilitate a response in the fish. It was found that testing the fish at ~0.06 lux was the minimal intensity required to stimulate a response. Additionally, polydatin appears to cause a slight increase in stimulation and activity. ydfD Encodes a Novel Lytic Protein in Escherichia coli Hisako Masuda, Naoki Awano and Masayori Inouye, Indiana University Kokomo, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School

Bacteria carry a number of genes that cause cell growth arrest or cell lysis upon expression. Notably, defective prophages retain many lysis proteins. Here, we identified a novel lytic gene, ydfD, on the Qin prophage segment of the E. coligenome. YdfD lyses 99.9 % of cells within 2 hours of its induction. The co-expression of the upstream gene, dicB, encoding a cell division inhibitor, as well as sulA, encoding another cell division inhibitor, abolished YdfD-induced cell lysis. These results imply that YdfD-induced lysis is a cell division-dependent event. We further found that by deleting the hydrophobic 22-residue N-terminal domain, the resulting 42-residue C-terminal domain was still toxic to cause cell lysis. We propose that YdfD, associated with the cytoplasmic membrane, inhibits an essential cellular process(s).

Physics & Astronomy

Eclipsing Binary Stars from the All Sky Automated Survey and Northern Sky Variability Survey Alan A. Gavel II, Robert C. Berrington, Ball State University

I present the modeling of a select sample of binary stars. An eclipsing binary star is defined as a pair of stars that are gravitationally bound and the orbital plane is favorably oriented such that one star eclipses the other as it moves in between its companion and the Earth. The modeling is completed using the Physics of Eclipsing Binaries (PHOEBE) software. The purpose is to establish orbital periods and other orbital parameters of the sample. For the past decade, the All Sky Automated Survey (ASAS) and Northern Sky Variability Survey (NSVS) have compiled an extensive temporal record of photometric data. The objective is to detect and investigate any kind of photometric variability. Each survey uses a robotic system of telephoto lenses equipped with CCD cameras to systematically monitor very large areas of the sky. With hundreds of measurements per object light curves for millions of objects have been created. From this data, several thousands of variable stars have been discovered, classified and cataloged. Because there are so many, relatively few have been extensively studied. I target short period (orbital period < 12 hours) eclipsing binary stars. The large-area nature of these surveys means the temporal coverage of the stellar systems is course (days) and sporadic. A baseline of a year or more is used to generate the light curves, but the lack of temporal resolution to resolve an individual orbit prevents an extensive photometric study. I present a high cadence, rigorous photometric study by targeting individual systems with the goal of establishing their orbital parameters, and provide a preliminary understanding to be used as a comparison for future studies.

The Ball State University Short-Period Variable Star Program Robert C. Berrington, Thomas Jordan, Alan Gavel, Michael Holcomb, Jon Van de Water, Erin Tuhey, Ball State University

Large area sky surveys like the Northern Variability Sky Survey (NSVS), and the All Sky Automated Survey (ASAS) have discovered numerous variable stars whose magnitudes are 8 < v < 15. while these surveys will extend our knowledge of luminosity variability to much fainter systems (v > 8) their large-area coverage prevents the systematic temporal coverage or accurate photometric coverage needed to accurately study these systems. We report on a program to obtain accurate photometric measurements of select short-period variable stars detected with both the NSVS and ASAS for further study. All photometric measurements will be either obtained by the Cooper Science Rooftop Observatory, the SARA-KP 1-meter or SARA-CT 0.6m telescopes, and the soon to be available SARA-RM 1-meter telescope. The naturally modular nature of the study makes this program ideal for students to get involved at all stages of the program. I will summarize the work that has been done to date with both students and faculty at BSU.

A Hydrodynamic Hunter Mohammed Al Juboori, Hossein Jashnsaz, Tyler Nguyen, Stephanie Perkins, Nick Miller, Viktoria Meyerhoff, Bryan McCoy, Gregory Anderson, Bruce Ray, and Steve Pressé, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis.

Bacteria are susceptible to external hydrodynamic flows as well as their own self-generated flows. Here we explore how the self-generated flows of a bacterial predator, Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus, alter its behavior neighboring flat surfaces. We describe mathematical models explaining the circular behavior of bacteria near surfaces and what this implies about their behavior near other objects.

Application of Complex Functions to the Electric field in 2-D Mason Boles, Ranjith Wijesinghe, and Richard Stankewitz, Ball State University

Complex analysis is a very rich field of mathematics. The use of complex numbers in quantum mechanics is common, but I believe that the physical value of complex numbers in other areas is generally untapped. The goal of this research is to establish a method of finding the electric field in a neighborhood of a single wire or collection of wires using a complex function. Combining pillars of complex analysis with knowledge from electrostatics, this method turns out to be elegant and relatively easy.

Are R Corona Borealis Stars the Remnants of Double White Dwarf Mergers? Patrick M Motl, Indiana University Kokomo

R Corona Borealis stars are rare, irregular variable stars that are carbon rich and essentially devoid of hydrogen. We present recent numerical simulations of the merger of double white dwarf binaries that we have run to explore the state of stellar material in the merger process. In particular, nucleosynthesis is ignited in discrete regions during the merger and the ensuing nuclear burning produces new elements in the merger remnant. The isotopic ratio of elements like oxygen, when compared to ratios observed in R Corona Borealis stars provide relatively strong constraints on the double white dwarf merger hypothesis that we describe in some detail.

Cobalt Nanoparticles Synthesis on Low Surface Energy Substrates by Solid State Dewetting (Poster) A. Mosey, B. Gaire, R. Cheng, J. Kim, J.E. Ryu, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.

We study the solid state dewetting of cobalt thin films on low surface energy substrates to produce tunable, spatially ordered arrays of Co nanospheres. Cost effective methods of metal nanoparticle synthesis which do not damage the underlying substrate have become desirable for the development of micro and nanosized biosensors, electronic devices, and for platforms to build thermally conductive energy storage devices. Solid state dewetting is a method of nanoparticle synthesis that utilizes surface energy differentials in a thin film--substrate system to drive a morphological transformation from bulk to nanopatterned array. Co thin film is applied to carbon nanotube and highly ordered pyrolytic graphite substrates by magnetron sputtering deposition. Xenon flash annealing is used to thermally excite the metastable thin film which readily dewetts into nanosized islands of cobalt. Further annealing creates a landscape of monomodal, nanosized spheres. This proceeds according to hydrodynic principles which can be used to predict particle size as a function of as deposited thin film depth. Characterization is done by AFM, SEM, and XRD.

Electronic Properties of Graphene and Beyond (Poster) Travis K Everhart and Mahfuza Khatun, Ball State University

We will discuss the electronic properties of graphene nanoribbons (GNRs), both zigzag and armchair. The electronic properties of these 2-D structures are dependent on the edge structure of the material. Zigzag GNR’s are metallic, while armchair GNR’s are semi conductive or metallic depending on the width of the ribbon. Along with GNR’s, newly emerged 2-D materials will be discussed. To analyze these structures we will be using a tight- binding model.

Electronic Properties of Hexagonal Boron Nitride and Graphene Nanoribbons (Poster) Albert DiBenedetto, Mahfuza Khatun, and Antonio Cancio, Ball State University

I will present electronic properties of Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanoribbons (h-BNRs) and Graphene Nanoribbons (GNRs). These new 2D materials (h-BN) contain insulating properties and the physical structure is made up of polar and covalently bonded boron and nitrogen. The edge structure provides insight on the electronic structure, similar to that of graphene and other similar hexagonally based materials. Using the Tight-Binding Model, I will show the energy band structure and density of states for h-BNRs and GNRs. I will also compare the conductance curves for both materials using Green’s Function Formalism. All of these results yield each structure’s electronic and conductive behaviors. If possible, I will show the Density Functional Theory (DFT) results and compare the accuracy of the Tight-Binding Model.

Finite Element Calculations in the Physics Classroom Uwe J. Hansen, Indiana State University, University of Indianapolis and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

The number of degrees of freedom required for a full scale calculation of structural vibrations in a three dimensional systemusually is only available in Engineering programs. However, ANSYS-ed has enough flexibility to permit illustrating the effect of boundary conditions on normal mode vibrations. Finite element calculations on rectangular plates and Hand- bells will be demonstrated.

Gamma Ray Burst afterglows seen off-axis (Poster) Adithan Kathirgamaraju, Rodolfo Barniol Duran, Dimitrios Giannios, Purdue University

Gamma ray bursts (GRBs) are intense flashes of high energy gamma rays that accompany catastrophic explosions in the Universe. These gamma-rays are produced by ultra-relativistic jets formed in the GRB explosion. GRB jets propagate through space and “sweep up” interstellar medium developing a shock, causing the interstellar medium to radiate via the synchrotron mechanism at lower frequencies. The emission during this phase is called the GRB “afterglow.” For a few days, the afterglow emission is strongly beamed along the direction of motion of the jet, and thus only observers positioned along the jet-axis will be able to detect it. However at later times, the afterglow emission becomes more spherical but weaker as the jet decelerates, and thus, off axis observers (observers positioned away from the jet axis) might have a chance to detect it. In this project, we simulate off-axis afterglows in the optical and radio band. We compare this emission with the emission from other possible components present in the GRB explosion, such as the emission from an accompanying supernova (for the case of long-duration GRBs). We quantify the number of off-axis afterglows that will be detected in upcoming surveys.

Hydrodynamic Hunters (Poster) Tyler Nguyen (IUSM), Bryan McCoy, Mohammed Al-Jaboori, Hossein Jashnsaz, Nicholas Miller, Stephanie Perkins, Bruce Ray, Gregory Anderson, Steve Presse Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

The gram-negative Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus (BV) is a model bacterial predator that has been suggested as a living antibiotic. It has been argued that during its first, ‘free-living’, phase, BV encounters its host at random, and early models indicated a Brownian-like behavior. Our recent theoretical and experimental data have shown that hydrodynamics may play a critical role in BV's behavior. We’ve observed that BV appears hydrodynamically captured by surfaces and other small geometric features like small spherical beads. In this poster, we will explore the consequences of this behavior on BV’s hunting strategy.

Ion crystals in anharmonic traps Stevie Bastin, Tony Lee, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Trapped ion research is important for the development of a quantum computer. A quantum computer needs to have many ions in order to do useful computations. Current experiments with trap ions use a harmonic electric potential. In order to use the ions for computation, lasers are focused on each individual ion to manipulate the quantum state. However, a problem arises when the number of ions becomes large enough that the ions near the center become very closely spaced. If the ions are too close together the lasers can no longer target the individual ions. We show that using an anharmonic (quartic) electric potential causes the ions to be more evenly spaced than the harmonic case.

Mode-Locking and Gain-Switching of a 15 Watt, 808 nm Laser Diode (Poster) Mattison Siri and Mark F. Masters, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

Ultrashort pulse generation from a commercially available, 15 W, 808 nm, broad-stripe laser diode (LD) is investigated. Three methods for accomplishing this are tested: passive mode-locking using a Semiconductor Saturable Absorber Mirror (SESAM), active mode-locking using gain-switching (with and without a SESAM), and gain-switching alone. The gain- switching techniques use the amplified output of a frequency comb to generated current pulses under 500 ps. In all cases, the laser diode is biased near its threshold current. The pulses are preliminarily measured with a photodiode and oscilloscope. The measurements are refined with an autocorrelation using the crystal assembly from a 532 nm diode- pumped laser. Here we outline our methods and present our results.

Modeling of Select Short Period Eclipsing Binary Stars in the Southern Hemisphere Jon Van de Water, Robert Berrington, Ball State University

I will present the modeling of select short period eclipsing binary star systems in the southern hemisphere. Each of these eclipsing binary candidate were chosen from the All Sky Automated Survey (ASAS) which is an all-sky survey that performs photometric monitoring of stars brighter than 14th magnitude in the Johnson V band. This survey has catalogued over ten thousand eclipsing binary candidates. Due to the vast number of these candidates, few have been extensively studied. Because of the large-area coverage of the ASAS, time resolution of individual systems is poor (~24 hours). I have selected eclipsing binary candidates with orbital periods ranging from 6 to 8 hours and magnitudes between 12th and 15th in the Johnson V band. By focusing on these individual systems, I will be able to provide better time resolution (~minutes) that will compliment the survey. The candidates will be observed using the Southeastern Association for Research in Astronomy (SARA) 0.6m telescope at the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO) in Chile. I have obtained the photometric data using Johnson B and V filters as well as the Cousins R filter. The data was calibrated and reduced using Image Reduction and Analysis Facility (IRAF) software to create a light curve for an extensive photometric study. Physics of Eclipsing Binary (PHOEBE) software suite is used to create a model of each eclipsing binary system that is consistent with the observed light curve. From these models, I will be able to extract orbital parameters as well as provide a basis for further studies on these systems.

Modelling Accretion Disk and Stellar Wind Interactions: the Case of Sgr A* (Poster) Ian Christie, Maria Petropoulou, Petar Mimica, Dimitrios Giannios, Purdue University

Sgr A* is an ideal target to study low-luminosity accreting systems. It has been recently proposed that properties of the accretion flow around Sgr A* can be probed through its interactions with the stellar wind of nearby massive stars belonging to the S-cluster. When a star intercepts the accretion disk, the ram and thermal pressures of the disk terminate the stellar wind leading to the formation of a bow shock structure. Here, a semi-analytical model is constructed which describes the geometry of the termination shock formed in the wind. With the employment of numerical hydrodynamic simulations, this model is both verified and extended to a region prone to Kelvin-Helmholtz instabilities. Because the characteristic wind and stellar velocities are in ∼10^8 cm s−1 range, the shocked wind may produce detectable X-rays via thermal bremsstrahlung emission. The application of this model to the pericenter passage of S2, the brightest member of the S-cluster, shows that the shocked wind produces roughly a month long X-ray flare with a peak luminosity of L≈3.5×10^33 erg s−1 for a stellar mass-loss rate and disk number density of M_w=10^−7 M_? yr^−1 and nd=10^5 n_5 cm^−3, respectively. This peak luminosity is comparable to the quiescent X-ray emission detected from Sgr A* and is within the detection capabilities of current X-ray observatories. Its detection could constrain the density and thickness of the disk at a distance of ∼ 3000 gravitational radii from the supermassive black hole.

Scaling properties of the kinetic energy density of atoms -- towards an orbital-free description. Antonio C. Cancio and Jeremy Redd, Ball State University

The scaling properties of atoms, combining periodicity with gradual increase in density, make a fruitful probe of relationships in density functional theory, and have driven advances in understanding the exchange and correlation energy. Although focus is normally upon the properties of integrated energies, insights can be generated from studying energy density functions as well. We visualize the behavior of the positive-definite kinetic energy density (KED) in closed- shell atoms, in comparison to invariant quantities based upon the gradient and Laplacian of the density. The latter are potential variables for constructing orbital-free functionals for the KE and can be used for analyzing the electronic structure of atoms and molecules. We notice a striking fit of the KED within the core of any atom to a gradient expansion model using both the gradient and the Laplacian, but one different from that derived from first principles for a slowly- varying electron gas. Correlated with this feature, we notice unexpected structure to the KED near the nucleus that cannot be explained simply by the von Weizsacker model, as is often presumed. These unexpected features provide potential insights for developing better orbital-free meta-GGA models for the kinetic energy.

Three-body recombination in a strongly interacting Fermi gas Le Luo, Jiaming Li, Ji Liu, Leonardo deMelo, Xin Chin, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Ultracold atoms provide a clean and tunable experimental system to study novel many-body quantum phenomena. Recently, we have realized a strongly interacting Fermi gas with a large effective range using a narrow Feshbach resonance in 6-Li. Above the resonance threshold, three-body recombination rate is dramatically enhanced by the formation of metastable dimers, which subsequently decay via atom-dimer relaxation that can be described by a rate constant Kad. By preparing atoms at various temperatures and sweep the magnetic field close to the resonance, we map out the dependence of three-body recombination rate on both the magnetic field and the temperature. From these relations, we extract a first experimental measurement of the temperature dependence of atom-dimer relaxation rate. We find that this atom-dimer relaxation rate decreases with temperature in the ultracold regime as predicted, but with absolute values that differ from those of the universal quantum Langevin model.

Using Single Photons for Imaging (Poster) Kakathi Tummala and Mark F. Masters, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

The cost of performing single photon investigations has dropped dramatically in the last five years. Single photon detectors of acceptable quality are more affordable allowing many novel quantum mechanical investigations. Simplest ones include demonstrations that photons are a particle (Grainger’s experiment), demonstrations of Bell’s inequality, and single photon interference. These investigations all serve the purpose of testing single photon apparatus. A portion of this presentation will be dedicated to development and testing of our coincidence counting unit which is flexible and extremely low cost. The remainder will examine our preliminary single photon imaging results.

What's New with Pluto? Guillermo Gonzalez, Ball State University

This presentation summarizes the exciting discoveries concerning Pluto made by NASA's New Horizons probe.

Wigner Functions of Linear, Nonlinear, and Purely Non-Hermitian Dissipative Cavities Patrick Kelley and Tony Lee, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

The dissipative cavity with incident light (e.g. a laser on a crystal) leaks photons. Using the quantum mechanical version of a forced driven oscillator, the time evolution of this non-classical leaky system is both described by a Monte Carlo simulation and the master equation, which can be thought of as the average of multiple Monte Carlo runs. We apply this to both a linear and nonlinear quantum oscillator model. Describing a system quantum mechanically, the process of measurement which both the master equation and Monte Carlo embody has direct result on the quantum system itself. Using instead the purely non-Hermitian evolution of the Monte Carlo simulation can be used to demonstrate how the system evolves never leaking photons (no photons ever detected). We then use Wigner functions to help map the “quantumness” to a more intuitive classical momentum-position axis. Presented will be Wigner functions plots of a linear and nonlinear system to compare and better understand these quantum optical systems.

Plant Systematics & Biodiversity

A Floristic Survey of Holthouse Woods Nature Preserve in Wayne County, Indiana Donald G. Ruch, Kemuel S. Badger, John E. Taylor, Megan E. Smith and Samantha Bell, Ball State University; and Paul E. Rothrock; Deam Herbarium, Smith Research Center, Indiana University

Holthouse Woods Nature Preserve (HWNP), owned by the Whitewater Valley Land Trust, Inc., is a woodland complex located near Abington, Indiana in south-central Wayne County. The site is primarily a floodplain forest along the Whitewater River corridor. An inventory of the vascular flora, conducted during the 2013-14 growing seasons, indicated that the 8.9 ha site harbors significant regional plant diversity with 331 taxa representing 229 genera and 77 families. Of the 331 taxa, 228 (~69%) are native and 103 (~31%) are non-native, and five represented Wayne County Records. None of the plants documented at the site have state or federal status, but one species is on the Indiana Watch List, i.e.,Prenanthes crepidinea. A detailed physiognomic analysis revealed that the native species consisted of 38 woody species, 156 herbaceous vines or forbs, 33 graminoids, and one fern ally. Of the 103 non-native species, nine were woody, 73 were herbaceous vines or forbs, and 21 were grasses. Floristic Quality Index (FQI) for native species was 43.8 and a mean Coefficient of Conservatism (mean C) was 2.9. For all species FQI = 36.4 and the mean C = 2.0. These numbers indicate that HWNP is a nature preserve quality site that appears to be compromised by non-natives. The four most invasive non-natives were Lonicera maackii, Ranunculus ficaria var. bulbifera, Artemisia vulgaris, and Humulus japonicus. A census of all trees with a dbh ≥ 20 cm revealed that the floodplain woodland is dominated by woody species characteristic of this type of habitat, e.g., Acer negundo, Populus deltoides, Acer saccharinum, Platanus occidentalis, Juglans nigra, Aesculus glabra, Celtis occidentalis, and Ulmus americana. A sample of trees with a dbh ≥ 5 cm but < 20 cm suggest that A. negundo, J. nigra, and A. glabra will continue to dominate the site, but that A. saccharinum, P. deltoides, and P. occidentaliswill decrease in importance.

Developing Probability Maps for Locating and Scouting Unprotected Areas of Gravel Hill Prairies on Rodman Soils along the Wabash River Valley Near Lafayette, Indiana (Poster) Ryan Schroeder, Darrell Schulze, Purdue University, Derek Luchik, The Nature Conservancy, and Bob Easter, NICHES Land Trust

The Gravel Hill Prairies (GHP’s) of the Wabash River Valley are an endangered habitat in the state of Indiana and provide optimal growing conditions for a number of state endangered plants. Currently only three remnants are known to exist near Lafayette, IN, found by a previous study conducted in 1980 by Post, Bacone, and Aldrich (Proceedings of the Indiana Academy of Science, 1984, vol. 94: 457-464). These unique ecosystems have been found to occur almost exclusively on soils classified as Rodman Gravelly Loams and Strawn-Rodman complexes which occur predominantly along the outwash terraces of the Wabash River and its tributaries. Seven state endangered (S1) plant species, more typical of western shortgrass prairies, are documented on these soils. This research effort aimed to develop GIS maps to scout for and discover areas of unknown GHP remnants. The end goal of the project is to assist conservation groups in the development of a strategy to acquire and preserve previously undiscovered remnants. This project relied on spatial analyses with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and numerous databases, including the USDA’s gridded Soil Survey Geographic (gSSURGO), to develop maps and scouting plans. To date, GIS tools such as ArcGIS and extensive geospatial datasets such as gSSURGO have not been used to attempt and locate additional GHP remnants. Preliminary spatial analyses have located more than 200 areas of interest as potential remnants, encompassing more than 150 acres. Field work is currently being planned to ground-truth these analyses.

Floristic Inventory of Hayes Arboretum’s Constructed Wetlands and Associated Woodlands, Wayne County, Indiana Megan Crecelius, Don Ruch, Ahmed Hubini, John Taylor and Kem Badger, Ball State University

Hayes Arboretum, a 466 acre nature preserve, is located in Richmond, Indiana between U.S. Route 40 to the south and I- 70 to the north. It lies in the southern section of the Tipton Till Region of the Central Till Plain Natural Region. Published studies of the flora in the Arboretum include Lindsey et al. in 1969 and Ruch et al. in 2007. Additionally, an IDNR report in 2005 noted the high number of exotic invasive shrubs, 1196 per ha, in the old-growth forest along the RR track. In 2006, 33 acres of land boarding U.S. 40 were sold and developed into a small strip mall in 2007-08. To drain the land on which the mall would be constructed, two detention ponds and a long drainage ditch were constructed on Arboretum property. One of the objectives of this study was to determine the floristic quality of the constructed wetlands and adjacent property. An inventory of the vascular flora, conducted in the late 2014 and 2015 growing season, indicated that the site harbors significant plant diversity with 312 taxa representing 202 genera in 77 families. The ten families containing ~58% of the documented species were Asteraceae (50 spp.), Poaceae (42), Cyperaceae (26), Rosaceae (17), Fabaceae (11), Brassicaceae (8), Plantaginaceae (8), Fagaceae (7), Lamiaceae (6), and Polygonaceae (6). Of the documented flora, 218 (70%) were native, 94 (30%) non-native. A detailed physiognomic analysis revealed that of the 218 native species, 62 were woody, 106 were herbaceous vines or forbs, 48 were graminoids, and two ferns and fern allies. Of the 94 non-native species, 18 were woody, 58 were herbaceous vines or forbs, and 18 were grasses. The Floristic Quality Index (FQI) for native species is 45.9 and the mean Coefficient of Conservatism (mean C) is 3.1. The FQI for all species is 38.3 and the mean C is 2.2. These metrics suggest that the exotics are having a negative impact on the native flora. This interpretation is supported by visual examination. Lastly, an analysis of the structure and composition of the mid-successional woodland in the study site was conducted using the PCQ method. Based on RIV (relative importance values; average of the relative density plus relative dominance or basal area), the most important species were Acer saccharum (31.6%), Tilia americana (21.5%), Liquidambar styraciflua (10.3%), Carya glabra (5.8%), Ulmus rubra (5.2%), Cercis canadensis (4.9%), andPrunus serotina (4.7%).

Floristic Inventory of the Cooper Woods -- Skinner Woods Complex, Delaware County, Indiana. Ahmed Hubini, Don Ruch, Megan Crecelius, John Taylor and Kem Badger, Ball State University

Cooper—Skinner Woods, owned by Ball State University, is a woodland complex located in northwest Muncie, Delaware County, Indiana. The study site is primarily woodlands. An inventory of the vascular flora, conducted in the 2015 growing season, indicated that the 42 hectare site harbors significant regional plant diversity with 355 taxa representing 226 genera in 85 families. The ten families containing ~52% of the documented species were Poaceae (44 spp.), Asteraceae (38), Cyperaceae (29), Rosaceae (20), Fabaceae (12), Fagaceae (9), Brassicaceae (9), Lamiaceae (9), Polygonaceae (7), and Ranunculaceae (7). Of the documented flora, 275 (77.5%) were native, 80 (22.5%) non-native. A detailed physiognomic analysis revealed that of the 275 native species, 63 were woody, 156 were herbaceous vines or forbs, 53 were graminoids, and three ferns and fern allies. Of the 80 non-native species, 14 were woody, 45 were herbaceous vines or forbs, and 21 were grasses. The Floristic Quality Index (FQI) for native species is 54.6 and the mean Coefficient of Conservatism (mean C) is 3.3. The native FQI indicates that the site is of nature preserve quality. The FQI for all species is 48.0 and the mean C is 2.5. The latter numbers indicate that the exotics are having a negative impact on the native flora.

A Lost Grassland – The Historic Occurrence of Canebrakes in the Lower Ohio Valley of Indiana. Michael A. Homoya, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Nature Preserves

A canebrake natural community is dominated by an extensive growth of giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea), a woody grass that according to some early reports reached 30 feet in height and 1-2 inches in diameter. Extensive areas of cane – some thousands of acres in size – formerly occupied mesic floodplain forests and a few upland sites along the lower Ohio River. The historic occurrence of canebrakes in Indiana can be mapped rather precisely using section line information provided in the Public Land Survey. With mass settlement by Euro-Americans occurring in the early 19th century these areas were subsequently converted to agriculture. While giant cane is not an endangered species in Indiana there are no known places where it exists in a canebrake of any significant size.

Biodiversity of the Huntington University Arboretum compared to a local natural forest (Poster) Meghan J. Wright, F. Collin Hobbs, Huntington University

The Huntington University Arboretum was planted in the 1930s by Dr. Fred Loew and in its early years it achieved both regional and international recognition for its outstanding collection of over 250 temperate tree species. However, since the 1970s the arboretum has largely been neglected, and while some portions were preserved as part of the campus mall and grounds, other portions were removed for building projects or reverted back to forest. In this study, we attempted to relocate the remnants of Loew’s arboretum and quantify the present-day biodiversity of the tree community in the campus mall and grounds. We then compared our results to a local naturally occurring forest. The trees in the HU Arboretum were identified to species, their DBH measured, and their spatial coordinates recorded using GPS. This information was entered into ArcGIS 10.3.1 and a map of all trees in the research population was produced. Measures of forest demography including dominance, diameter distribution, the Shannon diversity index, and evenness were calculated for the entire study population as well as several smaller portions. The remnant of Loew’s arboretum currently contains 53 tree species, has a Shannon diversity index of 3.41, and an evenness of 0.86. Our results were compared to data from a local natural forest at Kokiwanee Nature Preserve in work previously published by Dr. David Hicks of Manchester University. Our results show considerable differences in patterns of species richness and dominance between the arboretum and the natural forest.

Curating IU’s Deam Herbarium: Hair Raising or Hair Splitting? Paul Rothrock, and Eric Knox, Indiana University Bloomington

The Deam Herbarium contains 150,000 vascular plant specimens. In preparation for digitization and databasing, the entire collection is under review. Phase 1 of modernizing the IU Herbarium involves three primary tasks: 1) re-ordering families and family delimitations following APG3; 2) updating names, many from Deam’s 1940 “Flora”; and 3) verifying identifications especially of newer specimens and those taxa that experienced recent changes in taxonomy. Some changes of family order and delimitation are far reaching (i.e., hair raising), while species verification often involves fine morphological differences including minor differences in pubescence (i.e., hair splitting). Examples will be provided. Comments will also be made on the progress with Phase 2 digitization and database development.

Flora of Steele Prairie State Preserve, Cherokee County, Iowa Scott Namestnik and Mary Damm, Orbis Environmental Consulting,

Eighty-three percent of Iowa was once tallgrass prairie. With less than 0.1% native tallgrass prairie remaining in Iowa and several other Midwestern states, documenting the flora of remaining tallgrass prairie and preserving prairie remnants are of critical conservation importance. Steele Prairie State Preserve is one of four large (160-240 acres) black-soil prairie remnants in Iowa. We conducted a comprehensive floristic inventory and mapped major vegetation communities of Steele Prairie during multi-day visits in July and September 2014 and May 2015. Prior to the field inventory, we prepared a preliminary plant community map, identifying mesic prairie in the uplands and wet prairie in the drainageways. We surveyed each community by zig-zag pedestrian transects and recorded all vascular plant species observed in the mesic and wet prairie communities. Plant species lists recorded in the field were entered into the Universal Floristic Quality Assessment (FQA) program using Iowa coefficient of conservatism (C) values. Floristic Quality Assessment results, including species richness, mean C value, and Floristic Quality Index (FQI), were calculated for the prairie and each community. We documented a total of 263 species at Steele Prairie. In mesic prairie, 194 species were observed with 161 native and 33 non-native. Conservatism-based metrics for mesic prairie were total mean C=3.9, native mean C=4.7, total FQI=54.3, and native FQI=59.6. Species richness was lower in the wet prairie; 153 species were observed with 127 native and 26 non-native. Conservatism values were also lower with total mean C=3.4, native mean C=4.1, total FQI=42.1, and native FQI=46.2. The conservatism metrics indicate that Steele Prairie has a high-quality native flora, but is compromised by non-native species. Invasive species Bromus inermis (smooth brome) and Phalaris arundinacea (reed canary grass) are very abundant in certain areas of the prairie.

Genetic diversity of a native white pine (Pinus strobus) stand in Indiana (Poster) Jean A. Donaldson, Michelle R. Hoover-Ferretti, F. Collin Hobbs, Huntington University.

Eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) is a conifer with only a few native, disjunct populations in Indiana whose genetic diversity and conservation value has not been extensively studied. In this pilot study, we used previously published microsatellites (SSRs) to assess the diversity of a single native white pine stand. Microsatellites are short, repetitive sequences of DNA that are found throughout the non-coding regions of an organism’s genome and can be used to compare the genetic diversity between populations of a species. We extracted the genomic DNA of 20 adult trees sampled from a natural population in the Sugar Creek region of West-central Indiana and amplified microsatellite loci using three-primer PCR. We tested 19 primer pairs, of which 11 provided consistent results and therefore appear to be good candidates for future research. We then genotyped all 20 sample trees at each of the 11 loci and quantified the length of resulting products with DNA fragment analysis on an ABI 3730. Allelic richness varied from 1 (monomorphic) to 6 alleles per locus, with an average of 3.1 alleles/locus. With the exception of two monomorphic loci, most loci had levels of allelic richness comparable to other published studies which examined populations in the main distribution of the species, indicating Indiana’s disjunct populations may be genetically rich despite their isolation.

Impacts of Grass-specific Herbicide Application and Burning on the Establishment of Interseeded Forbs in a Tallgrass Prairie Restoration – The Third Growing Season David Aronson, Robert Reber, Taylor University; Adam Thada, Cardno, Inc.; Paul Rothrock, Indiana University

Many tallgrass prairie restorations become dominated by warm-season grasses that decrease forb diversity. The Avis Prairie in Grant County, IN is a 10-hectare, grass-dominated prairie restoration. This restoration was established in 1993 and has been managed using annual spring burns. In April 2013, five native forb species (Pedicularis canadensis, Eryngium yuccifolium, Rudbeckia hirta, Baptisia alba, and Parthenium integrifolium) were seeded into a restoration dominated byAndropogon gerardii (Big bluestem). Initially, treatments were employed in a factorial design: biomass removal by haying or burning, and application of a grass-specific herbicide. Biomass removal by haying was discontinued after the first growing season. A grass-specific herbicide (Clethodim®) was applied once (in May) or twice (May and June) during the growing season. The application of the herbicide has continued each growing season. Visual obstruction measurements (VOM), seedling counts, and coverage estimates were conducted in June and August. VOM and coverage estimates indicated that the biomass of A. gerardii was greatly reduced in the herbicided plots. In the first year of treatment, the density of seedlings that were sown and regionally native species were higher in the herbicide treated plots, and densities varied by species. In the second growing season the densities of regional natives were again higher with the application of the herbicide, especially when treated twice. Also in 2014, seeded species R. hirta, P. integrifolium, and B. alba responded positively to the herbicide application. In 2015 the regional natives continued to show an increase in the 1x and 2x treatment plots. Prairie natives exhibited a larger increase in the latter part of the growing season. The seeded species R. hirta, P. integrifolium, and B. alba maintained densities and coverages similar to 2014. Eryngium yuccifolium was found at higher densities than in previous growing seasons and responded positively to increasing levels of the herbicide. Pedicularis canadensis has not been encountered during any of the growing seasons. In the Avis Prairie restoration, the use of a grass-specific herbicide has positively increased the density of select interseeded forbs and other desirable forbs (prairie and regional natives).

Invasive plants in Indianapolis: History and current status Rebecca W. Dolan, Butler University

An estimated 28% of wild plants in cities are non-native. Many of these plants are invasive. At least 65 plants categorized as highly invasive by the Indiana Invasive Species Council have been reported for Indianapolis/Marion County, Indiana. How did they get here and how long have they been around? Using historical records, including early floras, published accounts and the Friesner Herbarium digital collection, I will trace the history of invasives in the city. Indianapolis’ tale is likely representative of many cities in the Midwest and hopefully we can learn from history to help prevent future invasions. I will also touch on ecological and cultural impacts of invasive species in urban areas and highlight some successful control projects underway in Indianapolis.

Phylogenetic Utility of Low-Copy Nuclear Genes for Resolving Relationships Within Gleditsia (Leguminosae) and Genera of the Umtiza Clade Sara Tabner, Justin Ivers, Pierre N'Guetta, Kathryn Riley, and Andrew Schnabel, Indiana University South Bend

Gleditsia (Leguminosae) is a small genus (12-13 species) of thorny trees with a distribution largely in Eastern North America and Eastern Asia, but with outlying species in South America and the southern Caucasus. It is a member of the Umtizaclade, which includes Gymnocladus and five other genera with disparate distributions around the world. Previous phylogenetic work based on chloroplast and nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences has divided the genus into three or four subclades. To resolve some of the outstanding questions about relationships between closely related species within subclades, as well as to investigate the relationship of Gleditsia to other genera in the Umtiza clade, we have been testing low-copy nuclear genes hypothesized to have phylogenetic utility in the legumes. We initially tested six genes (AGT1, AIGP, AT103, EIF3E, tRALs, and SHMT), but discarded AGT1, EIF3E, and SHMT due to amplification of multiple fragment sizes that could indicate gene duplication or non-specific priming. Initial comparisons of sequence diversity for the remaining three genes indicated that AIGP and tRALs would be the most useful genes for our study. Phylogenetic analyses using AIGP failed to resolve relationships within Gleditsia, but the level of variability suggests that the gene may be useful for analyses of relationships among Umtiza clade genera. Sequences of tRALs appear to provide some resolution among Umtiza clade genera, and they may also be variable enough for comparison of species within Gleditsia.

The Cosmopolitan Radiation of Lobelia (Lobeliaceae) Eric B. Knox, Indiana University-Bloomington

The Lobeliaceae comprise 34 genera, of which Lobelia is the ‘core genus’ in the family and the others are segregate genera based on subsequent evolutionary modification of the reproductive features originally used to describe Lobelia. South Africa and Australia have many diverse lineages of Lobeliaceae, but the phylogenetic relationships of these lineages clearly show that Lobelia originated in the Western Cape Region of South Africa, and the diversity in Australia is due to repeated colonization. Roughly 20 million years ago, Lobelia colonized Europe, western North America, Mexico and the Caribbean, eastern North America, South America, Australasia, Madagascar, and eastern Asia within a 3 million year period. Sequence from complete plastid genomes finally provides a sufficiently large data set to accurately reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships of this rapid cosmopolitan radiation. China was the source area for evolution of the giant lobelias, which took a biogeographic victory lap, with one lineage colonizing Hawaii and South Pacific islands, while the other lineage diversified on the mountains of East Africa but subsequently reached West Africa and independently reached Angola and Brazil.

The First Documented Record of Equisetum sylvaticum L. [Equisetaceae] in Indiana Scott A. Namestnik, Orbis Environmental Consulting

Equisetum sylvaticum (woodland horsetail) is a fern-ally native to moist forests throughout Canada and the northern contiguous United States. Previously unknown from Indiana, the author recently documented this species from a swampy flatwoods community in LaPorte County, at least 60 miles from the closest known population in southwest Michigan. Additional populations of this species should be sought in the boreal flatwoods community present in northwest Indiana.

The New Invasive Plant Threats to Indiana - What To Watch For Ellen M. Jacquart, The Nature Conservancy of Indiana

Psychology

Does emotional context affect sympathetic nervous system activity following physiological stressor? (Poster) Paula Eddleman, Ben Sebastian, Karissa Light, Adam Schwartz, Rodney W. Roosevelt, Indiana University Southeast

Sympathetic nervous system activity (SNS) mediates the flight and flight response and alters a host of cognitive activities including learning and emotional valence. The SNS response occurs peripherally and is mediated by the hormone adrenalin. Adrenalin does not cross the blood brain barrier and exerts its central effects via the vagus nerve. The VN projects indirectly to the locus coeruleus (LC) and then widely throughout the neural axis exerting its effects. Additional projections from the LC synapse onto parotid salivary glands causing the release of salivary alpha amylase (sAA). Direct measurement of adrenalin is problematic in behavioral studies, requiring invasive venipuncture and is confounded by the additional stress attending the procedure. Salivary AA is released in a linear fashion to serum adrenalin providing a proxy measurement of SNS. Thus sAA is a viable measure of SNS activity. In the cold pressor procedure, the subject is asked to immerse his hand in a vat of ice water wrist deep for up to five minutes Because of its effects on the SNS, the cold pressor technique is a useful prime for behavioral studies in which increased SNS function is desirable. In the present study, the effects of emotional context during CP was investigated with one group receiving supportive comments during the procedure and negative group discouraging comments. Saliva samples were collected immediately prior to, immediately after, and at 20 minutes. Salivary AA was assayed as a measure of SNS activity. Preliminary data from eight male participants indicate that across groups, sAA increased 115% compared to baseline levels within a few minutes of the task and remained 85% above baseline 20 minutes later. No difference was observed between the positive and negative context groups.

Science Education

A parasitic view of animal physiology: Using inquiry-based learning to investigate parasite transmission (Poster) Nicole Chodkowski and Allison R. Rober, Ball State University

Student engagement in biological material often depends on the degree to which the subject can be made personally relevant. Students are most motivated to learn biological concepts that are associated with disease and functional abnormality. Applying a parasitic view to animal physiology is a unique way to actively engage students in material that can be difficult to visualize. I developed an inquiry-based module to engage undergraduate students in STEM courses in exploration of the relationship between animal physiology and parasite transmission as part of the Scientific Teaching Program at Ball State University. Students worked individually to explore parasite diversity. After a mini-lecture to expand on modes of transmission among animal hosts, students worked in collaborative groups to determine transmission strategies and parasite life cycles using case studies. Findings were reported to the class which exposed students to six different parasite transmission strategies and their relationship to the host animals’ physiology. Students demonstrated understanding by applying information learned during case studies to a new problem on a summative assessment. This module may be used in a range of life science classrooms to actively engage students in the process of science.

Development and implementation of an active-learning teaching module in environmental microbiology: using data exploration to decipher ecological interactions in aquatic ecosystems (Poster) Lily Y. Gu, Kevin H. Wyatt, Allison R. Rober, Ball State University

I have designed and implemented an active learning module as part of a new scientific teaching program at BSU. During this module, upper-level microbiology students engaged in data exploration to evaluate relationships among microorganisms in aquatic communities and how environmental stressors regulate these interactions. Students participated in think-pair-share exercises to explore fundamentals of environmental microbiology and to evaluate data from relevant scientific literature. Students worked in cooperative groups to make predictions and constructed graphs to demonstrate their understanding of the relationship between autotrophic and heterotrophic microorganisms under varied environmental conditions. 86% of students indicated a preference for active learning over passive learning, and 87% were able to apply knowledge gained from this module to a new situation during a post-assessment. This module may be used in a range of life science classrooms to actively engage students in the process of science.

Exploring environmental controls on toxic algal blooms to promote problem solving and quantitative reasoning skills in STEM courses (Poster) Jeremy T. Walls, Kevin H. Wyatt, and Allison R. Rober, Ball State University

Scientific teaching encourages students to think critically in order to synthesize and apply information to a problem. These skills are becoming increasingly important in today’s society where we are faced with many complex global environmental problems, such as water contamination. Therefore, I designed objectives, assessments, and a case study, as part of the Ball State University Scientific Teaching Program, to engage students in inquiry-based learning. Students used data exploration and graphing to evaluate environmental controls on toxic algal blooms and their influence on water quality. Students worked in cooperative groups and used their results to make predictions and evaluate management strategies that would improve water quality. Pre-and post-concept maps provided evidence that this activity improved the students’ abilities to describe the relationship between environmental conditions and toxic algal blooms.

Exploring the consequences of pesticide applications on freshwater ecosystems using an active learning teaching module (Poster) Daniel Elias, Allison R. Rober, Ball State University.

As part of the Scientific Teaching Fellowship Program at Ball State University, I developed an active learning module for undergraduate STEM courses to explore the consequences of pesticide applications on freshwater ecosystems. Students worked in collaborative groups using pesticide compound characteristics to classify pesticides. After a mini-lecture exploring the pesticides prevalence in aquatic ecosystems, students used data exploration and graphing to evaluate how current and future pesticide use could alter ecosystem function. To evaluate students ability to apply presented information to a new situation, cooperative groups explored the consequences of pesticides to non-target organisms using a case study. This module uses an economically and environmentally relevant subject to actively engage students in the process of science, which could be used in a range of STEM courses.

Undergraduate research at Ivy Tech Community College Columbus: The Forest Ecology Project. Thomas A Sobat, Ivy Tech Community College Columbus

The opportunity for an undergraduate science student to do research in their first two years can increase their chances of attending graduate school by as much as 80%. With a growing population of students who have the desire to study science comes the need for application experiences. The underlying principles of the project are legitimate, the intensions genuine, and the objectives are true to method. The research is based on the observation that extensive contiguous forest exist in south western Indiana, and a distinct line exists that orphans many forest fragments. All of our studies are based from this simple premise, and all are designed to follow the scientific method. Any student can join the team, but they must formulate their own hypotheses and test them under my supervision. They must collect, analyze, and upon completion, present their data to the Indiana Academy of Science (IAS). It is the undergraduate version of the graduate research experience. One student has completed, and presently there are three students working on individual projects. Details regarding funding, logistics and the progress of our students will be discussed.

Using 3D Printing to Make Custom Models for Introductory Chemistry Courses James Mendez - Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus

Physical models have a long history in science classrooms, especially chemistry, but over the past few decades they have seen their importance diminish somewhat due to the rise computer generated models. In this project, three different sets of physical models were created for an introductory chemistry course using 3D printing. The concepts chosen for this study were selected due to their perceived difficult for students and the lack of commercial models (Bohr model of the atom, bond polarity, and hybridization). While most chemistry textbooks have bright, colorful, and detailed figures for these concepts, they are still two-dimensional representations of three-dimensional objects. The models created to represent these concepts are not only three dimensional but also interactive, allowing for a more hands-on approach to student learning. Over the course of the semester, students used these models in various activities in addition to traditional molecular model kits. Surveys following each activity reveal that students felt they learned more with the custom-made models than the traditional molecular model kits or the figures from the textbook.

Zoology

The ultrastructure of the Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix (Southern Copperhead snake) spermatozoa (Poster) Amanda Khan, Abigail Helman, and Kevin Gribbins, University of Indianapolis

The ultrastructure of snake spermatozoa is considered a valuable morphological source for phylogenetic reconstruction of relationships within Ophidia. In the Crotalinae subfamily, the ultrastructure of sperm of only three species (Bothrops alternatus, diporus, and Crotalus durissus) have been analyzed to date. In our study, the spermatozoal ultrastructure of Agkistrodon contortrix, another Crotalid, is described for the first time and compared to other pitvipers. Samples of the vas deferens were obtained from male A. contortrix and processed using standard histological and TEM techniques. The ultrastructure of sperm from Copperheads is similar to the general spermatozoa model described for Ophidia. When compared to the other species within Crotalinae, A. contortrix share 7 spermatozoal morphological traits with Crotalus, which are the presence of the perforatorium basal plate and its stopper-like shape, nuclear lacunae, multilaminar membranes, no dense bodies, peripheral fibers 3 and 8, and extracellular microtubules. When compared to B. alternatus and B. diporus, A. contortrix has only 1 shared character that is not already shared with all four crotalid species combined, which is oval shape of mitochondria in LS. A. contortrix thus shares more traits with C. durissus, suggesting that the Copperheads are more closely related to C. durissus than the Bothrops species. The presence of these possible synapomorphic traits suggests that intrafamilial morphological differences in sperm exists within Crotalinae, which may be useful in phylogenetic analysis. However, more data needs to be collected within this subfamily and in other ophidian taxa in order to produce robust phylogenetic data.

Changes in Malondialdehyde (MDA) Levels with Age in the Nucleus, Cytosol and Mitochondria from Rat Kidney Cortex and Medulla Marianna Zamlauski-Tucker, Cameron Behringer and Natalya Mezenina, Ball State University, Department of Biology

Previous studies have reported increases in MDA levels with age in mitochondria and cytosol from rat whole kidney. MDA is a product of lipid peroxidation of cell and organelle membranes. Lipid peroxidation occurs when free radicals, produced as a result of oxidative metabolism, cause damage to lipid molecules in membranes. Oxidative damage or stress caused by free radicals is thought to contribute cell injury and dysfunction seen with age. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of age on changes in MDA levels in mitochondria and cytosol from different regions (i.e., cortex and medulla) of the rat kidney, We also investigated changes in MDA levels with age in the nucleus from rat kidney cortex and medulla. Kidneys from Young (3 months of age; n=6) and Old (22 months of age; n=6) female Lewis rats were harvested and separated into cortical and medullary sections. The nuclear, mitochondrial and cytosolic fractions were isolated by differential centrifugation. MDA was measured in the fractions and expressed per g of kidney wet weight. Differences were evaluated using a Student's t test. There was a significant increase in MDA levels in the nucleus, mitochondria and cytosol from rat kidney cortex with age. However, MDA levels in the nucleus, mitochondria and cytosol from rat kidney medulla did not change with age.

Effects of Environmental Enrichment on 1) Photostimulated and 2) Spontaneous Ovarian Recrudescence in the Adult Female Marsh Rice Rat (Oryzomys palustris) Kent Edmonds, Indiana University Southeast

Animals must continuously adjust physiologically to their current environment. The present studies addressed whether an enriched environment containing the addition of various items into the cage to enhance the animal’s presumed well-being could affect either photostimulated or spontaneous ovarian recrudescence in rice rats. Recrudescence herein refers to a regrowth of the ovaries after ovarian regression is induced by a short photoperiod (11L:13D). In addition, I examined somatic growth and the masses of the uterus, Harderian glands (HG), spleen, and brain. In these studies, animals were subjected to 9 weeks of 11L:13D to induce ovarian regression and then transferred back to 14L:10D for up to 12 weeks or left on 11L:13D for up to an additional 16 weeks. The treatment groups also included standard or enriched housing. Transfer back to 14L:10D stimulated ovarian recrudescence, increased somatic growth, and regrowth of the uterus and HG, but enrichment failed to enhance the mass of any tissue relative to standard housing conditions. In animals left on 11L:13D body mass increased throughout the study, but there was no ovarian recrudescence or additional growth of any organ by 16 weeks of treatment. Enrichment again failed to modify the growth of any endpoint examined relative to standard housed animals. Taken together, these data suggest that ovarian recrudescence is affected by photoperiod over time, but that cage enrichment fails to alter either photostimulated or spontaneous ovarian recrudescence and the growth of other tissues at any time point during the process of recrudescence. Despite the lack of enrichment effects in these studies, incorporation of enrichment into experimental design may still want to be considered in some studies.

Ultrastructural Analysis of Spermiogenesis in Clark’s Spiny Lizard, Sceloporus clarkii (Phrynosomatidae). (Poster) 1Marisa Teal Ketchum, 1Sonal Baidwan, 2Justin Rheubert, 1Kevin Gribbins, University of Indianapolis. 1Biology Department, University of Indianapolis, 2Biology Department, University of Findlay, Findlay OH

The Sceloporus genus contains 90 known species, providing a unique opportunity to study variation in spermiogenesis at the genus level. Spermiogenesis is the final phase of spermatogenesis, where spermatids differentiate to become motile spermatozoa. This ontogenic process involves acrosome development, nuclear condensation/elongation, and flagellar development. Within these changes, minute morphological differences can be observed and used to understand phylogenetic relationships by comparing spermatid morphological character matrices among species. This study endeavors to describe the spermatid ultrastructure of Sceloporus clarkii and then compare it with that of S. variabilis, S. bicanthalis, and S. undulatus. Testicular samples were extracted from male S. clarkii caught in southeastern Arizona. Tissues were then processed using typical TEM techniques and electron micrographs were analyzed during spermiogenesis. S. clarkii spermatids exhibit a non-spiraling chromatin condensation like S. variabilis. However, their granular pattern of DNA condensation, presence of nuclear lacunae, extensive longitudinal manchette, and no Mito/ER complexes is similar to S. bicanthalis andundulatus. S. clarkii spermatids also show an intermediate depth to their acrosome nuclear penetration. Previous phylogenetic studies suggest that S. variabilis is a distant sibling group to S. bicanthalis and undulatus groups. The mosaic suite of characters observed in S. clarkii suggests it may occupy an intermediate phylogenetic position between S. variabilis and S. bicanthalis and undulatus, but still share less character similarities with the variabilis group. However, so few sceloporines have been studied presently that caution should be taken until more species within this genus are analyzed for spermiogenic characteristics.

Assessing microbiome of historic and current river habitats for Eastern Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) in Southern Indiana Ardith Wang, Obed Hernandez-Gomez, Rod N. Williams, Purdue University

Eastern Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) are a fully aquatic salamander currently threatened and declining across their range. In Indiana, hellbenders were historically present in nine rivers along the southern portion of the state. Recent intensive searches for hellbenders across Indiana have found them to persist only in the Blue River. These results have been confirmed through the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) work last fall. Current conservation efforts aim to reintroduce captive reared hellbenders from the Blue River to the rivers they once occupied. Efforts are being made to characterize the environment of these rivers, as reintroduction success can be increased by maximizing the similarity between source and reintroduced sites. The goal of our study is to use bacterial 16S rRNA sequencing to identify the environmental microbiota components across the historic hellbender range in Indiana. Our objective is to analyze the microbiota components of rivers historically containing hellbenders and to compare our findings to microbiota components found in the Blue River. We collected samples from the Blue River and five candidate reintroduction streams and microbial characterization is currently underway. Data from this study will help determine suitable release sites for juvenile hellbenders in Indiana as well as establish the importance of assessing environmental microbiota throughout the species range.

Bird-window collisions on a university campus in Indiana: comparing collision rates and migration phenology Sarah Fischer, Kamal Islam, Ball State University

Windows can be problematic for birds because of their reflectivity. Birds have difficulty in detecting glass and often collide with windows. Though it is difficult to estimate numbers, these collisions may account for up to one billion avian mortalities in the U.S. each year. Many buildings on university campuses can be fatally harmful to a diverse array of species. We are conducting ongoing research over a two-year period on the Ball State University campus to compare migration phenology, determine which species and families are most affected, and determine which windows are the most problematic. From August 2014 through November 2015, 126 carcasses representing 38 species from 16 families were collected during daily surveys. The highest mortality rates occurred in the Turdidae (thrushes; n=33), Parulidae (wood-warblers; n=32), and Emberizidae (sparrows; n=21) families. Once our study is completed, we will use the results to recommend methods that can reduce collision rates at the most problematic “hotspots” on campus. Additionally, these data, as well as results from similar studies, can provide insight for architects to help promote bird-safe buildings and communities.

Breeding season microhabitat use by Cerulean Warblers (Setophaga cerulea) in southern Indiana Claire E. Nemes, Clayton Delancey, and Kamal Islam, Ball State University

Since 1966, populations of the Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea) have declined at a rate of approximately 3% per year, among the fastest decreases of any North American songbird. This small migratory passerine overwinters in South America but breeds in mature deciduous forests in the Eastern United States and Canada, including several locations in Indiana, where it is listed as State Endangered. We have been studying the breeding biology of this species as part of the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (HEE), a long-term ecological research partnership designed to assess the impacts of different forest management strategies on the biota of two state forests in the Central Hardwoods Ecoregion of southern Indiana. Between 2011 and 2015 we searched for Cerulean Warbler nests within the nine HEE experimental units. At each nest site we measured a number of microhabitat variables, including slope, aspect, mature tree DBH, shrub density, canopy and ground cover, topographic position, and distance to timber harvest. We compared these with microhabitat variables at paired non-nest locations to determine which factors are more frequently associated with nest sites. We also compared microhabitat at the center of male territories with random non-use points in the same experimental unit. Such findings help enhance our understanding of this species’ microhabitat associations in this region during the breeding season, particularly within actively managed state forests.

Contractile measurements from frog (rana pipiens) gastrocnemius muscle used for the first time to study short- term synaptic plasticity Richard Manalis and Jessica Davalia, Goshen College

SHORT-TERM SYNAPTIC PLASTICITY (STSP) pertains to the initial stages of learning and memory (Kandel, 2001). We show for the first time that STSP can be studied by measuring contractile (i.e., muscle twitches), instead of electrophysiological, responses. Experiments were performed on the frog sciatic nerve/gastrocnemius muscle preparation. STSP was only observed in preparations that had undergone synaptic fatigue which transformed the populations of nerve/muscle synapses into two groups: those that contracted and those that did not, i.e., those that were within the SUBLIMINAL FRINGE, in response to a single stimulus. Facilitation was measured as PAIRED-PULSE FACILITATION (PPF). The first of the pair was the CONDITIONING (C) stimulus; the second, applied after a variable delay, was the TEST (T) stimulus. The C stimulus triggered facilitatory mechanism(s) so that the subsequent T stimulus could have brought some of those muscle fibers present within the subliminal fringe to THRESHOLD, thereby allowing the T twitch > the C twitch. PPF was taken as the twitch ratio, T/C. Synaptic fatigue was induced through the continuous stimulation of the nerve at 0.3-0.6 Hz for 20-30 min. This transferred about 90% of the muscle fibers into the subliminal fringe. Continuous STIMULATION CYCLES were present before and after synaptic fatigue. Each of these cycles began with 120 s of rest (i.e., no nerve stimulation) and ended with 5-8 s of nerve stimulation, which consisted of a train of 5 identical stimuli (either single- or dual-pulses). Due to the rest period in each cycle, the application of 5 identical paired- pulses produced non-identical results: the C twitches decreased (DEPRESSION) while their corresponding T twitches increased (FACILITATION) during the stimulus train. An increasing facilitation occurring in the midst of an increasing depression is a first-time observation and supports separate mechanisms. Both pertain to a change in the quantal release of transmitter (Zucker, 1989).

Future of Aquaculture: Re-circulatory System or Aquaponics Systems? Md Ibrahim and Ahmed Mustafa, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

As the natural resources are not enough to meet the protein demand of ever growing human population, people are culturing aquatic animals and plants in artificial ways. Aquaculture, culture of aquatic organisms in marine and freshwater, is being considered as a major source of aquatic products. In traditional re-circulatory aquaculture system, fish are grown at a high density in a confined environment, which faces a big challenge of the accumulation of ammonia as it circulates the water within the system. Aquaponics, on the other hand, is a combination of normal re-circulatory system with hydroponics (growing of plants without soil), that uses nitrogen from fish waste as nutrients for the plants and clears the ammonia toxicity. In our experiments, we compared fish growth and heath in both systems besides having an extra harvest of plants. We want to see if this is the future of the aquaculture.

Investigating the impact of invasive Asian carp on the North American river otter diet (Poster) Sarah E. Meronk, Casey C. Day, Elizabeth A. Flaherty, and Patrick A. Zollner, Purdue University

Invasive Asian carp (i.e., bighead and silver carp, Hypophthalmic molitric and hypophalmichthy nobilis), threaten native fish populations in the Midwestern United States freshwater ecosystems. These species are primarily planktivorous, experience rapid growth rates, and may have unique predator avoidance traits that result in a competitive advantage over native fish species. The success of Asian carp may also affect higher-level predators by altering prey availability, potentially causing a change in predator behavior and/or diet. Since the coinciding river otter (Lontra canadensis) reintroduction and Asian carp invasion in Indiana’s waterways in 1995, no studies have been conducted on the impact of Asian carp on higher- level predators. Our objective is to determine the role of Asian carp in the diet of a top predator in Indiana’s waterways, the North American river otter. To determine the impact of Asian carp in otter diet, we are conducting diet analyses through two methods: gross fecal analysis and stable isotope analysis. We are comparing otter diet in carp-invaded watersheds to the otter diet in carp-free watersheds. Our carp-invaded watersheds are located along the Tippecanoe River at Prophetstown State Park and YMCA Camp Tecumseh. Our non-carp invaded watersheds are in Pigeon River and Elkhart River at Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area and Chain O’Lakes State Park. We hypothesize Asian carp to be a rare diet item of otters in locations where Asian carp have invaded. We predict river otter diet will not differ between carp invaded and non-carp invaded watersheds. If we are wrong and otters consume Asian carp, otters may serve to limit Asian carp populations and encourage positive human attitudes about otters, which were listed for trapping in Indiana in the fall of 2015

Lymphocyte Proliferation of Nile tilapia Using Elderberry Extract Md Mursalin Khan, Elliott Blumenthal, and Ahmed Mustafa, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne

In aquaculture, fish can be chronically stressed by various biological, chemical and physical factors. Chronic stress leads to a decrease in the overall health and growth of fish, making them more prone to diseases. To enhance the immune response of fish, more specifically tilapia, a potential immune booster elderberry extract was used in-vitro to proliferate lymphocytes along with mutagens Concavaline-A (Con-A) and Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and to increase the production of lymphokine, interleukin-2 (IL-2). IL-2 was measured using Anti-IL-2-antibody with Enzyme Linked Immune Sorbent Assay (ELISA). From the preliminary data, it is apparent that elderberry extract can enhance the proliferation of both B and T lymphocytes as well as IL-2 from T-Helper lymphocytes, in-vitro.

Preliminary microscopic analysis of the skin glands in the Northern Slimy Salamander, Plethodon glutinosus (Poster) Ashley Prickel, Jordan Hartley, Kevin Gribbins, University of Indianapolis

There have been multiple studies concerning the mechanism, purpose, and chemical makeup of the secretions of amphibian skin and the histology of the glands that produce them. However, some frogs (Gastrophryne carolinesis) and salamanders (Plethodon shermani) produce dorsal secretions that are thick and sticky compared to other amphibians. Here we describe for the first time the skin microscopic anatomy of Plethodon glutinosus, which does manufacture a very sticky, viscous secretion. In this preliminary study, skin samples from the dorsal and ventral side of these salamander were fixed, processed, embedded, and section in order to examine histologically and ultrastructurally the poison, mucous, and mixed glands through transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis. We hypothesized that the characteristics of the skin in P. glutinosus are similar to those seen in G. carolinesis and P. shermani. Preliminary results suggest that P. glutinosus does have similar mixed glands to P. shermani that are apocrine in secretion mode. The mixing of both granular and mucous components within cellular pieces in the glands are most likely responsible for the thick and sticky consistency of the gland secretions. Future studies will further investigate the specific chemical nature of these integumental secretions.

Preliminary Study of the Microscopic Anatomy of the Venom Gland of the Mojave Green Rattlesnake, Crotalus scutulatus (Poster) Kathleen Paschal, Helen Brandt and Kevin Gribbins, University of Indianapolis.

For this preliminary study the authors focused on identifying the microscopic anatomy and ultrastructure of the main venom gland cell types of the Mojave Green Rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus). Few studies examine the histological ultrastructure of venom glands in crotalid snakes, and no studies have observed the venom glands of the Mojave Green Rattlesnake. This snake is found in the southwestern states of North America and is considered highly venomous. Gland tissues from C. scutulatus were obtained at night in southeastern Arizona from fresh road kill specimens. Through PAS+, standard staining techniques for plastic sections, light, and transmission electron microscopic analysis, Paschal et al. were able to observe similar features to those seen in other crotalids as well as note new features unique to this species. Examples of some notable features include numerous mitochondria-rich cells, areas of high and low venom production activity, and swollen canaliculi under tight junctional complexes. These characteristics are consistent with regulatory functions of the venom gland. The authors hope to continue studying these glands within C. scutulatus in the future by using paraffin to embed the entire venom gland apparatus and to include the accessory gland in our microscopic analysis. Wax embedding will allow for further histochemical analysis to be conducted and provide better comparison of the Mojave Green Rattlesnake’s glands to what has been done previously in crotalids.

Thermal effects on the nonpolar lipid contents of late-term Chelydra serpentina embryos (Poster) Brandon E. Phillips and Michael S. Finkler, Indiana University Kokomo

Turtle embryos may experience considerable fluctuation in temperature during development, but laboratory studies frequently incubate eggs under single constant temperatures for the entirety of development. Previous studies found that when incubated under single constant temperatures, increased temperature leads to smaller hatchlings with greater stored energy reserves in the form of larger residual yolks and greater carcass fat reserves. Herein, we report our findings for analyses of body and yolk nonpolar lipid contents for snapping turtle embryos and hatchlings from eggs that were incubated at a constant 29°C for a period of 40 days, then divided the eggs among three different constant temperatures (27, 29, and 31°C) for the completion of incubation. There was no difference among the different groups in the nonpolar lipid contents of either the embryos or the yolks at either Day 40 or Day 50. However, hatchling carcass lipid contents were lower in the 29°C group (the constant temperature group) than in either the 27°C or the 31°C groups, and yolk lipid contents were higher in the 27°C group than in either the 27°C or the 31°C groups. Our findings suggest that variation in temperature at different intervals during embryonic development may induce changes in nutrient mobilization and storage that would not be predicted if a unidirectional association between growth and temperature is assumed.

Ultrastructure of Spermiogenesis within the Germinal Epithelium of the Red-Eared Slider, Trachemys sctripta elegans (Poster) Taylor Hatch, Jordyn Bever, Kevin Gribbins, University of Indianapolis

Trachemys scripta elegans, more commonly known as the red-eared slider, is found in the order Testudines and the family Emydidae. This turtle is most commonly found in the southern great lakes region where muddy-bottomed water and plentiful vegetation offer the proper habitat for them to thrive. Histological data describing spermatogenesis has been accumulating in reptiles recently, but turtles have been largely ignored. Turtles are unique in that they have long been placed in the most basal position of the living reptile in taxonomy, but new amino acid sequence analysis has shown the turtles may be more closely related to birds and crocodiles. The following study looks at spermiogenesis within T. s. elegans, using transmission electron microscopy. The goal of our research is to identify the ultrastructure of spermiogenesis in the Slider turtle and be able to compare this to that observed in other reptiles. Spermiogenesis offers nontraditional character matrices that have been used to compare molecular data used in phylogenetic analysis. The addition of the complete description of the ultrastructure of spermatids in T. s. elegans will provide histological information that is missing from the current analysis of sperm development in reptiles.

When can embryos learn? A test of the timing of learning in embryonic amphibians Lindsay N. Beasley, Evie K. Sehr, Kurtis W. Wilson, and Brian G. Gall, Hanover College

Learning is crucial to the survival of organisms across their life span, including during embryonic development. We set out to determine when learning becomes possible in amphibian development by exposing spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum) embryos to chemical stimuli from a predator (Ambystoma opacum), nonpredator (Lithobates clamitans), or control at developmental stages 16-21 or 36-38 (Harrison 1969). Once exposures were completed and embryos hatched, we recorded the number of movements and time spent moving of individuals in both groups and all treatments. There was no significant difference in number of movements or time spent moving among any of the treatments. The groups that were exposed to predator stimuli and a blank control at stages 36-38 were also tested to determine if there was a difference in refuge preference or difference in survivorship when exposed to a predator (marbled salamander). There was no difference in survival or refuge preference between individuals, however all individuals preferred vegetated over open areas regardless of treatment type. We discuss hypotheses for the absence of embryonic learning in this species and suggest it may be the result of the intensity of the predator-prey interaction between the predator, large marbled salamander larvae, and the prey, spotted salamander larvae.

Following are the names of individuals who served on the various Indiana Academy of Science committees this year; generously sharing their expertise and time. It is with such dedication, the Academy is able to realize its mission, and is grateful.

Elected Standing Committees: Academy Foundation Committee: Research Grants Committee: Stan Burden (Chair) Daniel Bauer (Chair) Tom Dolan Richard Fitch; Robert Sammelson Michael Finkler (ex officio) Darrell Schulze Wendell F. McBurney James Mendez; Clare Chatot Horia Petrache Vanessa Quinn (ex officio) ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Appointed Standing Committees: Awards Committee Proceedings Editorial Board Marcia Moore - Chair Donald G. Ruch (Co-Editor) Marcia Gillette Paul Rothrock (Co-Editor) James Plew Robert Mahaney – Anthropology Nelson Shaffer D. Blake Janutolo – Botany Donald Ruch Jennifer Kowalski – Cell Biology Jennifer Holt – Chemistry Biodiversity and Natural Areas Committee James Farlow – Earth Science Donald G. Ruch (Chair) Jason Hoverman – Ecology Jeffrey Holland Terry West – Engineering Kemuel Badger Charles Crawford – Environmental Quality Ellen Jacquart David Treves – Micro/Molecular Biology Eric Knox Eric Hedin – Physics and Astronomy Marcia Moore Scott A.Namestnik – Plant Systematics/Biodiversity Paul Rothrock Brad Poteat – Zoology & Entomology Kay Yatskievych Marc Aaron Milne Publications Committee Jeremy Sheets Bill N.McKnight (Chair) Alice Long Heikens Marcia Moore (Webmaster) Scott Namestnik Paul Rothrock/ Donald Ruch (Proceedings Co-Edit) D. Blake Janutolo (Newsletter Editor) Budget Committee Jocelyn Lewis (Librarian) Darrin Rubino (Chair and President-Elect) All Council Members Science and Society Committee All Committee Chairs Delores Brown (Chair) James Bandoli; Horia Petrache; Vanessa Quinn Finance Committee Michael Finkler (exofficio) Youth Activities Committee Paul Rothrock Jennifer Metzler (Chair) Robert Waltz Tina Gilliland- Director, Junior Academy Lynn Thomas- Director, Science Talent Search Nominations and Elections Committee Alice Long Heikens-Director, Jr. Research Grants Lawrence Mordan- Student Research Advisor Delores Brown –Chair Dale D. Edwards  Steve Kristoff; Mary Ritke; Sarah Mordan- Uwe Hansen McCombs; Libbie S. W. Pelter; Edward Chikwana; Marcia Gillette; Arthur JCL Hogarth