2011 UIS Science Research Symposium Program

Home , Dictyocephalus

The Eleventh Annual

Science Research Symposium

University of Illinois Springfield

Brookens Auditorium & Brookens 1st Floor Concourse

April 15, 2011

8:30 - 9:00 INFORMATION TABLE & REFRESHMENTS Brookens Auditorium Concourse

MORNING ORAL PRESENTATIONS from 9:00 a.m. - 11:10 a.m. Brookens Auditorium

9:00 - 9:10 Opening Remarks – Dr. Harshavardhan Bapat Director of the Natural Science Division, UIS

Moderator : Dr. Lucia Vazquez

Schedule of Morning Oral Presentations

9:10 - 9:30 (O1) VIABILITY ASSESSMENT OF ORCHID MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI IN PROLONGED COOL (4-6 C) STORAGE TO BENEFIT CONSERVATION Jenifer Fortney

9:30 - 9:50 (O2) STATUS AND TRENDS OF WHITE BASS Morone chrysops AT LA GRANGE REACH, ILLINOIS RIVER USING LONG TERM RESOURCE MONITORING PROGRAM (LTRMP) DATA Nathan T. Grider

9:50 - 10:10 (O3) PROTOCORMS OF AN EPIPHYTIC ORCHID (EPIDENDRUM AMPHISTOMUM) RECOVERED IN SITU, AND IDENTIFICATION OF ASSOCIATED MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI USING MOLECULAR MARKERS April Y. Ross

10:10 - 10:30 Refreshment Break

2 Moderator: Dr. Rebecca Landsberg

10:30 - 10:50 (O4) NFKB ACTIVATION INHIBITS PLACENTAL GROWTH FACTOR EXPRESSION AND INCREASES SOLUBLE FMS-LIKE TYROSINE KINASE RECEPTOR-1 EXPRESSION IN HUMAN TROPHOBLAST Timothy J. Murphy

10:50 - 11:10 (O5) MECHANISMS OF NEUROPROTECTION IN THE SCN2.2 NEURONS Sumedha W. Karmarkar . 11:10 - 12:00 Lunch - On Your Own *For our guests, we suggest dining at the UIS Cafeteria, First Floor, Public Affairs Center

12:00 - 1:30 Poster Session Exhibits - for listing, see pages 7 - 8 Lower Corridor Outside Brookens Auditorium

AFTERNOON ORAL PRESENTATIONS from 1:30 p.m. - 2:10 p.m. Brookens Auditorium

Moderator: Dr. John Martin

1:30 - 1:50 (O6) EXOSOMAL MICRORNAS: MEDIATORS FOR CELL-CELL COMMUNICATIONS Ramesh Singh

1:50 - 2:10 (O7) RESVERATROL INHIBITS CELL GROWTH AND INVASION BY UPREGULATION OF PDCD4 IN BREAST CANCER CELLS Jianguo Huang

2:10 - 2:30 Refreshment Break

2:30 - 3:30 KEYNOTE ADDRESS

Dr. Elena Kramer

“Genome Level Views of the Evolution of Floral Novelty”

Brookens Auditorium

3:30 - 4:00 Award Presentations

Best Student Poster and Oral Presentation

Closing Remarks: Dr. Layne Morsch

4:00 - 5:30 Reception & Social Brookens Auditorium Concourse

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

DR. ELENA KRAMER

Professor in the Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology

Harvard University

Dr. Elena Kramer

Elena Kramer received her B.S. in biology from Brandeis Uni- versity in 1993 where she graduated Phi Beta Kappa. She received her Ph.D. in Molecular Cellular and Developmental Bi- ology from Yale University in 1999 and is currently a Professor of Biology at Harvard University in the Department of Organis- mic and Evolutionary Biology. Dr. Kramer uses a combination of molecular, morphological and phylogenetic techniques to study the evolution of flowers, one of the most fascinating and controversial issues in plant evolution. Since 1998 she has published more than 35 peer-reviewed articles in prominent jour- nals including Genetics, Plant Cell, and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science of the United States of America.

6 Poster Session Exhibits

(P1) DEVELOPMENT OF DNA BARCODES FOR OAKS SPECIES Heather Dyer (P2) ANTI-PROLIFERATIVE EFFECTS OF JUNIPER EXTRACT Amy B. Johnson (P3) SEED ADDITIONS FAIL TO INCREASE PLANT BIODIVERSITY IN AN ESTABLISHING TALL-GRASS PRAIRIE Justin D. Ramey (P4) ASSESSING OPTIMAL SAMPLING METHODS FOR ILLINOIS FRESHWATER MUSSELS Zachary Rasche (P5) PALEOBIOGEOGRAPHY AND TAXONOMY OF THE METOPOSAURIDAE (AMPHIBIA, TEMNOSPONDYLI) Dennis R. Ruez, Jr. (P6) NANOSHELL ENCAPSULATION OF BLISTER BEETLE TOXIN AS A POTENTIAL CANCER THERAPIC AGENT Lindsey Baxter (P7) THE EFFECTS OF TERATENOGENIC ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF PRECEREBELLAR SYSTEM Leslie Worrell*, Kelly Sheehan*, Kelli Oyler, Dr. Rebecca L. Landsberg (P8) STRUCTURES OF ORDERED TUNGSTEN- AND MOLYBDENUM-CONTAINING DOUBLE PEROVSKITE OXIDES Bradley E. Day (P9) PRESSURE-INDUCED STRUCTURAL AND OPTICAL CHANGES IN YIn1−xMnxO3 Zachary Hays & Denise Freeman (P10) COUNTING GOLD: USING ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY TO CHARACTERIZE GOLD NANOPARTICLES Steven Hurth (P11) INHIBITION EFFECTS OF ZINC-IMIDAZOLE ON CARBOXYPEPTIDASE B Ifad Noor (P12) ACID EROSION OF TOOTH ENAMEL Paige Wallace

7 Poster Session Exhibits Cont.

(P13) PREDICTION AND DETECTION OF SMALL MOLECULE INTERACTIONS WITH GOLD NANOPARTICLES Tina Weder (P14) G(ALPHA)12 IS REQUIRED FOR THROMBOXANE A2 TO REGULATE TUMOR CELL MOTILITY Babar Malik (P15) TLR4 AS A NOVEL DETERMINANT OF PACLITAXEL SENSITIVITY IN METASTATIC BREAST CANCER Sandeep Rajput (P16) PSEUDOKINASE TRB3 EXERTS AN ANTIPROLIFERATIVE EFFECT AND PROMOTES A G2/M PHASE ARREST IN PROSTATE CANCER CELL LINE, PC-3 Djamilatou Saidou Hangadoumbo (P17) LOSS OF G-PROTEIN COUPLED CALCIUM SENSING RECEPTOR AUGMENTS MALIGNANCY AND BESTOWS CANCER STEM CELL-LIKE PROPERTIES IN HUMAN COLON CARCINOMA CELLS Navneet Singh (P18) RETENTION OF INSULIN SENSITIVITY, GLUCOSE TOLERANCE, AND PYRUVATE CONVERSION PERFORMANCE IN FEMALE MIDDLE-AGED GROWTH HORMONE RECEPTOR KNOCKOUT (GHR-KO) MICE ON AN INTERMITTENT FASTING DIET Mike Zerkle (P19) REGULATION OF MIR-145 EXPRESSION BY FOXO3A, C/EBP-Β AND P53 IN CANCER CELLS NanJiang Zhou (P20) THE ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN DIMENSIONS OF IMPULSIVITY AND COMPULSIVE BUYING Millie Doran (P21) DIMINISHED AUDITORY CAPACITY AND ITS EFFECTS ON ATTENTION AND CONCENTRATION Kaley A. Graves (P22) PERSONALITY CHARACTERISTICS RELATED TO EARLY OR LATE PARTICIPATION IN RESEARCH Sara D. Lubeno (P23) COMPONENTS OF IMPULSIVITY AS PREDICTORS OF FRUGALITY Matthew R. Murphy & Kayla J. Bimm

8 ABSTRACTS

(O1) VIABILITY ASSESSMENT OF ORCHID MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI IN PROLONGED COOL (4-6 C) STORAGE TO BENEFIT CONSERVA- TION

Jenifer Fortney*, Amber N. Furness*, and Lawrence W. Zettler. Orchid Re- covery Program, Illinois College, Jacksonville, Illinois 62650

All members of the Orchidaceae have an absolute requirement for mycorrhizal fungi as a carbon source (mycotrophy) to complete their life cycles in situ. In the wake of ongoing habitat destruction worldwide coupled with climate change, re- serves alone will not be enough to safeguard plants in peril this century. This is especially true for orchids which depend heavily on co-associating organisms for survival (e.g., mycorrhizal fungi). To augment orchid conservation, a blend of different approaches will be needed including the recovery and long-term storage of mycorrhizal fungi for the purposes of artificial propagation (e.g., symbiotic seed germination). Cryopreservation is often used to preserve important strains of orchid mycorrhizal fungi in a viable state indefinitely and is preferable to continu- ous subculturing and/or cool storage (i.e., refrigeration). For some researchers, however, cryopreservation may not be an immediate or practical option. In this study, we assessed the survival of 132 strains of orchid mycorrhizal fungi that were stored 4-6 years in refrigeration. The majority of the fungi were assignable to two ubiquitous anamorphic genera of orchids worldwide: Ceratorhiza and Epulorhiza Moore. Using agar slants within screw-cap tubes, cultures were main- tained on a variety of different media (e.g., oat meal agar, malt agar), with and without subsequent addition of mineral oil. More than half (36/55 or 65.5%) of the Epulorhiza strains were successfully restarted on potato dextrose agar (PDA) after prolonged storage, whereas less than half (24/56 or 42.9%) of the Ceratorhi- za strains had survived. In general, immersing cultures in mineral oil resulted in lower viability especially for Ceratorhiza strains.

NOTE: For each abstract, the name of the presenter is underlined and the student presenter is identified with an asterisk.

(O2) STATUS AND TRENDS OF WHITE BASS Morone chrysops AT LA GRANGE REACH, ILLINOIS RIVER USING LONG TERM RESOURCE MONITORING PROGRAM (LTRMP) DATA

Nathan T. Grider1* and Kevin S. Irons2. Biology Program, University of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, Illinois 62703.1 Illinois River Biologi- cal Station, Illinois Natural History Survey, 704 N. Schrader Ave., Ha- vana, Illinois 626442

Fish populations in the Illinois River have been monitored by the Long Term Resource Monitoring Program (LTRMP) since 1989. There is a general lack of knowledge regarding population metrics of White bass Moro- ne chrysops in the Illinois River in which they are a valuable spotfish. The purpose of our study was to test for status and trends of white bass using the wealth of standardized LTRMP data collected from the La Grange Reach, Illinois River. Relative weights (wr) of White Bass over the time period were variable with a mean of 95.1, which is slightly less than the regional average (100). Proportional stock density (PSD) ranged from 15 to 77 (mean 45). Relative stock density (RSD) for the length ranges of preferred, memorable, and trophy produced means of 17, 5, and 0, respec- tively. Our RSD analysis suggests that large fish are present in the Illinois River; however, trophy fish are absent. White Bass catch per unit effort for day electrofishing (y = -3.1548x + 61.768, P = 0.0054, n = 17, d.f. = 1, 14, F = 10.41, r² = 0.410) and fyke netting (y = -2.5497x + 50.76, P = 0.0045, n = 17, d.f. = 1, 14, F = 10.94, r² = 0.421) showed a significant decline in catch rates. Our results highlight temporal trends yet suggest that additional research may be needed to determine abiotic and/or biotic factors influencing the white bass population in the La Grange Reach of the Illinois River.

(O3) PROTOCORMS OF AN EPIPHYTIC ORCHID (EPIDENDRUM AMPHISTOMUM) RECOVERED IN SITU, AND IDENTIFICATION OF ASSOCIATED MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI USING MOLECULAR MARKERS

April Y. Ross1*, Lillian L. Moller-Jacobs1*, Laura L. Corey1, Law- rence W. Zettler1, and Larry W. Richardson2. Orchid Recovery Pro- gram, Illinois College, Jacksonville, Illinois 626501, Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, 3860 Tollgate Boulevard, Suite 300, Naples, Florida 341142

Epiphytic orchids have received considerable study, yet little has been published on their germination requirements in situ involving mycorrhizal fungi. Such research has been hampered by the small, dust-like size of seeds and leafless seedlings (protocorms) which are difficult to pin- point on natural substrates, especially those on arboreal substrates (tree limbs). We report a novel seed sowing and retrieval method, modified from one applied to terrestrial orchids, used in the acquisition of epiphytic orchid protocorms from the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge. Seeds from two epiphytic orchid species (Epidendrum amphistomum A Richard, E. nocturnum Jacquin) were placed in separate nylon mesh packets secured within 35 mm plastic slide mounts, and affixed to tree bark using gutter mesh and a staple gun. To confirm that the embryos were viable, some seeds were also sown on asymbiotic media in the laboratory which subsequently germinated after 52 days incubation. Of 60 packets distributed among 18 tree limb sites, one packet - harbor- ing seeds of E. amphistomum affixed to pop ash (Fraxinus caroliniana Mill.) on a moss substrate - harbored protocorms after 267 days. Using molecular markers, a fungus assignable to the anamorphic genus Cera- torhiza Moore, appears to be the mycorrhizal associate of these protocorms suggesting that this fungus may have triggered the germination process in situ.

(O4) NFKB ACTIVATION INHIBITS PLACENTAL GROWTH FAC- TOR EXPRESSION AND INCREASES SOLUBLE FMS-LIKE TYRO- SINE KINASE RECEPTOR-1 EXPRESSION IN HUMAN TROPHO- BLAST

Timothy J. Murphy*, Kathleen A. Groesch, M.S., Trenae L. Mann, M.S., and Donald S. Torry, Ph.D. Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunol- ogy, and Cell Biology and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois 62794

Blood vessel formation and modification of uterine vascular function are required at the maternal-fetal interface for appropriate growth of a developing fetus. During normal pregnancy trophoblast production of the angiogenic growth factor, Placental Growth Factor (PlGF) increases dramatical- ly. However, during obstetrical complications such as preeclampsia (PE), PlGF expression is inhibited. Simultaneously, an increase in trophoblast expression of a soluble PlGF receptor (sFlt-1) interferes with cell-signaling by membrane bound receptor, Flt-1. Molecular explanations for these events are not well established. Pro-inflammatory cytokines are increased in preeclampsia. Both hypoxia and NFkB activation decrease PlGF expression. Consequently, our aim is to determine if NFkBp65 interferes with PlGF transcription by inhibiting its primary transcription factor, Glial Cell Missing1 (GCM1). In addition, we want to determine the relationship between trophoblast NFkB and Jumonji domain-containing protein 6 (Jmjd6), a recently dis- covered regulator of Flt-1 splicing in human placenta. GCM1 is known to be regulated by sumoylation. We intend to use immunoblot and reporter con- struct assays to determine if NFkB induces sumoylation of GCM1. NFkB also increases sFlt1 production. Thus, we will use laser confocal microscopy to determine spatial relationships between Jmjd6 proteins and activated NFkBp65 proteins in PE tissue sections. Nuclear colocalization of Jmjd6 and activated NFkBp65 needs further studies to confirm potential interactions. Understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating expression of pro- and anti-angiogenic factors in trophoblast may facilitate new therapeutic approaches to treating these common obstetrical complications.

(O5) MECHANISMS OF NEUROPROTECTION IN THE SCN2.2 NEURONS

Sumedha W. Karmarkar1*, Stacey L. Krager1, Kathleen M. Bottum2 and Shelley A. Tischkau1. Department of Pharmacology,1 Department of Internal Medicine,2 Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, 62794

As the major excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate (Glu) is physiologically important in brain function. Excessive Glu release, however, is a critical underlying pathology in neurodegenerative disease, especially stroke. Strate- gies to protect neurons from cell death under these conditions are scarce, which is attributed in part to incomplete understanding of natural neuropro- tective mechanisms, such as those of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Immortalized SCN2.2 (from SCN) and GT1-7 (from the neighboring hypo- thalamus) neurons were treated with Glu (10 mM) +/- caspase inhibitors, ERK inhibitor or Ifenprodil. Cell death was assessed by the live/dead assay, MTS assay and TUNEL. Caspase activity was also measured. Activation of MAPK family members was assessed by immunoblot. Glutamate insult did not affect caspase activity in SCN2.2, but was increased in GT1-7 neurons. ERK inhibition increased caspase 3 activity and resulted in cell death after Glu treatment in the otherwise resistant SCN2.2 neurons. This was prevented by Ifenprodil. Glu treatment in the SCN2.2 cells decreased p-p38 levels and increased pERK levels. In contrast, Glu exposure caused an increase in p- p38 and a decrease in pERK in GT1-7 cells. These data show that SCN2.2 neurons are resistant to Glu excitotoxicity through inhibition of caspase activation and facilitation of ERK activation. The current data merit further in- vestigation into these endogenous pathways of neuroprotection.

(O6) EXOSOMAL MICRORNAS: MEDIATORS FOR CELL- CELL COMMUNICATIONS

Ramesh Singh* and Yin-Yuan Mo. Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois 62794

Background: Exosomes are 30-100 nm membrane vesicles of endocytic origin, mediating diverse biological functions including tumor-cell invasion, cell-cell communication and antigen presentation through transfer of proteins, mRNAs and microRNAs to neighboring or distant cells. Mi- croRNAs are small regulatory non-coding RNA molecules that regulate protein-coding genes. Recent evidence suggests that microRNAs can be released through a ceramide-dependent secretory machinery regulated by neutral sphingomyelinase 2 enzyme expressed by smpd3 gene that triggers exosome secretion. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the exosome-mediated microRNA transfer among various types of cells and to determine the effect of smpd3 gene on exosome-mediated microRNA secretion. Methods: Exosomes were extracted from culture media of cells by ultra- centrifugation method and stained with PKH26 dye and observed for cellular uptake by confocal microscopy. To further determine the effect of nSMase2, stable cell lines were established with smpd3 gene. Level of microRNA secreted was determined by real time PCR. Results: We first showed that miR-10b was highly expressed in metastatic breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells compared to non-metastatic MCF-7 cells. Importantly, nSMase2 promoted the exosome-mediated miR-10b secretion. In contrast, ceramide inhibitor suppressed this secretion. Fur- thermore, we found that the exosomes secreted from cancer cells can be taken up by other cells suggesting the significance of exosome-mediated microRNA transfer in tumor microenvironment. Conclusion: These results collectively suggest that a set of specific mi- croRNAs may play an important role in modulating tumor microenvironment through exosomes. Thus, a better understanding of this process may aid in the development of novel therapeutic agents.

(O7) RESVERATROL INHIBITS CELL GROWTH AND INVASION BY UPREGULATION OF PDCD4 IN BREAST CANCER CELLS

Jianguo Huang*, Qian Liu, Mohit Sachdeva, Shoumin Zhu and Yin-Yuan Mo. Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology Program, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois 62794

Programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) is a key protein involved in protein synthesis, and thus, it controls cell growth and proliferation. Evidence indicates that PDCD4 is downregulated in breast cancers and is associated with disease progression and metastasis. Resveratrol (RSV), a natural polyphenolic compound present in grapes and red wine, is a well known anti-oxidant capable of modulating various signaling pathways, leading to suppression of cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. However, it remains unclear regarding the effect of RSV on PDCD4. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the effect of RSV on PDCD4 in human breast cancer MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells through MTT assays, invasion assays, luciferase assays and western blot. We show that ectopic expression of PDCD4 suppresses anchorage independent growth of breast cancer cells. Furthermore, PDCD4 suppress cell invasion in MDA-MB-231 cells. Of considerable interest, RSV induces expression of PDCD4 in both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, which is likely through suppression of pAkt, because we show by western blot and immunohistochemistry that RSV suppresses pAkt. Since PDCD4 is a downstream effector of Akt and mTOR, experiments are under way to dissect molecular pathways of PDCD4 upregulation by RSV. In addition, as a direct target for miR-21, we are currently investigating the effect of RSV on miR-21 expression. Together, identification of PDCD4 upregulation in response to RSV provides new insight into the clinical implication of RSV in treatment of breast cancer.

15 BIOLOGY

(P1) DEVELOPMENT OF DNA BARCODES FOR OAKS SPECIES

Heather Dyer*, Duong Long*, and Dr. Lucia Vazquez. Biology De- partment, University of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, Illinois 62703

Traditional identification of plant species requires the careful examination of nonreproductive and reproductive structures. In most species, this is a time-consuming process that could be very challenging when only a small amount of tissue is available. An alternative method of species identification is the use of DNA barcodes, which is based on the presence of small and unique gene segments. DNA sequences generated for this purpose are deposited in a “universal” database accessible via Internet. Species identification takes place when a sequence from an unknown species is compared against those in the database and a name is assigned when the query sequence closely corresponds to one in the database. Oak (Quercus) species are a plant group difficult to identify due to the extensive variation in leaf shape and the morphological similarity of unrelated species. Development of DNA barcodes for oaks as a mean of species identification could speed up the inventory of forested areas threatened by human development or agriculture, thereby increasing its chances of conservation. In this project, the chloroplast gene matK and the nuclear gene ATP were tested for their utility in the development of barcodes for a select group of oak species. Preliminary data has been obtained which shows that matK is useful at the intrasectional level whereas the molecular signatures of ATP appear to be species specific and therefore useful for barcoding oak species.

(P2) ANTI-PROLIFERATIVE EFFECTS OF JUNIPER EXTRACT

Amy B. Johnson*, Dr. Rebecca L. Landsberg, and Dr. Lucia Vazquez. Biology Program, University of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, Illinois 62703

Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled cellular proliferation as the result of cell-cycle deregulation. As the incidence of cancer increases annually, so does the effort to synthesize drugs that combat the disease. Researchers, inspired by the use of plants in medicine since antiquity, are now in pursuit of plant-derived anticancer drugs. A limited number of studies conducted with Juniperus have been documented. In this study, we investigated the potential anticancer effects of a crude juniper extract in vitro on a human cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cell line. The liquid extract was prepared by mac- erating plant tissue in methanol, followed by filtration. HeLa cells were exposed to a series of extract dilutions. Fluorescent microscopy involving 4,6- diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) provided cell counts that documented changes in cell viability. A 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) staining assay was utilized to monitor changes in number of cells undergoing DNA- synthesis as this might reflect changes in cell-cycle control after extract ap- plication. The effects of the extract were also compared to those of no- codozole, a known M-phase block, and hydroxyurea, a known S-phase block. Exposure to the extract resulted in a noticeable decrease in cell population, which became more pronounced with increasing extract concentration. Further study will be required to determine which chemical compound (s) in the extract were responsible. The apparent anti-proliferative and cytotoxic effects of the extract indicate a potential role of Juniperus in the development of plant-derived anticancer drugs.

(P3) SEED ADDITIONS FAIL TO INCREASE PLANT BIODIVER- SITY IN AN ESTABLISHING TALL-GRASS PRAIRIE

Justin D. Ramey* and Dr. Amy B. McEuen. University of Illinois Spring- field, Department of Biology, Springfield, Illinois 62703

Tallgrass prairie is one of the most highly disturbed and critically endan- gered ecosystems in the world. In response to this, tallgrass prairie recon- struction efforts are taking on the challenge of finding ways to quickly develop resilient prairie ecosystems. Our study examined whether a second seed-sowing event at two newly-established prairie restoration sites could significantly influence native plant species richness and floristic quality. Four seed addition transects containing randomized sample plots were established at the Emiquon Preserve in Lewistown, Illinois. During the 2008 growing season, all plant species within plot locations were identified and percent covers were visually estimated. In August of 2008, 18 native prairie species were selected based on individual coefficients of conservatism (C) and hand-sown in randomly selected transect plots. Plots were again cen- sused during the 2009 growing season and changes were statistically analyzed using a modified floristic quality index (FQI). Initial results suggest that seed additions did not cause a large change in plant biodiversity and no new species were found to be establishing specifically in seed addition plots. However, differences were found in the effects of the seed addition between sites. Specifically, the site burned the spring following seed addition showed a small but significant increase in richness in seed addition plots (paired t = 2.17, p =0.048, n = 30) whereas the unburned site did not (paired t= 0.62, p=0.544, n = 32). This suggests the timing of additional seed additions in relation to burning may be important when considering additional seeding of prairie restorations.

(P4) ASSESSING OPTIMAL SAMPLING METHODS FOR ILLI- NOIS FRESHWATER MUSSELS

Zachary Rasche* and Dr. Amy McEuen. Biology Department, Uni- versity of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, Illinois 62703

Accurate values for mussel abundance and richness are needed in order to properly assess and conserve the communities of this imperiled taxon. The current method typically used by the Illinois Natural History Survey to survey freshwater mussels is the four man-hour method. This study will compare the four man-hour sampling method to the quadrat sampling method. The results will be analyzed for differences in richness, abundance, and size selectivity. The percent of endobenthic mussels in the community may influence which method is preferred, as the four man -hour approach may not address the endobenthic community as well as the quadrat method. For this reason, the endobenthic community will also be examined to see if it changes with time of year. The results of the study will help determine which sampling method is most appropriate, and whether or not the appropriateness is dependent on the time of year.

(P5) PALEOBIOGEOGRAPHY AND TAXONOMY OF THE METOPOSAURIDAE (AMPHIBIA, TEMNOSPONDYLI)

Dennis R. Ruez, Jr. Department of Environmental Studies, University of Illinois Springfield, One University Plaza, Springfield, Illinois 62703

Metoposaurs are widespread, occurring on four continents, and are partic- ularly abundant in west Texas and east New Mexico. These large am- phibians were variously assigned to species within Anaschisma, Apachesaurus, Arganasaurus, Borborophagus, Buettneria, Calamops, Dictyocephalus, Dutuitosaurus, Eupelor, Kalamoiketor, Koskinonodon, Metopias, and Metoposaurus; species level identification is more tenu- ous. Because there is considerable debate as to the nomenclature and systematics of the group, I performed a phylogenetic analysis of metoposaur species type specimens. The results conflict with recently proposed relationships and proposed synonymies of metoposaur taxa. A conserva- tive taxonomic approach is suggested here because of the overall morphological similarity, the incongruence of paleogeography and phylogenetic hypotheses, and the paucity of synapomorphic characters. I recom- mend using Metoposaurus for all species of metoposaurs until additional characters are found and variation within taxa is clarified.

(P6) NANOSHELL ENCAPSULATION OF BLISTER BEETLE TOXIN AS A POTENTIAL CANCER THERAPIC AGENT

Caitlin Klimavicz, Lindsey Baxter*, George D. Bennett, and Paris W. Barnes. Chemistry Department, Millikin University, Decatur, Illinois 62522

Cancer therapy has developed significantly but has not come far enough because some tumors still do not respond to conventional treatments. Can- tharidin, a toxin secreted by the blister beetle (family Meloidae), has been shown to cause apoptosis in cells. However, applications are limited because healthy cells are also damaged by the toxin. Encapsulation with nanoshells has the potential to make cantharidin a targeted weapon in the fight against cancer. Attempts were made to synthesize gold nanoshells starting with silver nanoparticles templates coated with cantharidin using a template engaged replacement reaction. Nano-capsule products were characterized using X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. This research addresses the potential to encapsulate a powerful but indiscriminate toxin in a nanoshell delivery system.

(P7) THE EFFECTS OF TERATENOGENIC ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF PRECEREBELLAR SYSTEM

Leslie Worrell*, Kelly Sheehan*, Kelli Oyler, Dr. Rebecca L. Landsberg. Biology Department, University of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, Illinois, 62703

The medulla of the brainstem is host to the precerebellar system (PCS), a series of five discreet clusters of neurons (nuclei) which connect the spinal cord and cortex with the cells of the cerebellum. These series of connections are responsible for controlling balance and coordination. These connections can be disrupted and ma- nipulated by the teratogenic agents, which are substances that can disrupt normal development. We have chosen to study the effects of ethanol and retinoic acid on the development of the PCS. Alcohol is known to decrease the size of the PCS but it is unknown if this decrease is due to a primary effect on the neurons of precerebellar nuclei as they develop or indirectly due to decreases in cerebellar neurons. A mouse model of fetal alcohol syndrome was established and it has been found that neonates exposed to alcohol during gestation have defects in precerebellar nuclei at times prior to establishing connections with the cerebellum. Exposure to retinoic acid (RA) during defined gestational time points increases the size of one precerebellar nucleus, the ION. One possible explanation for this observation is that RA increases the size of the ION progenitor pool. Following exposure to RA, embryos were analyzed for changes in gene expression in progenitor cells. It was found that expression of two genes Ngn1 and Hoxb4 were altered in embryos exposed to RA.

20 CHEMISTRY

(P8) STRUCTURES OF ORDERED TUNGSTEN- AND MOLYBDENUM-CONTAINING DOUBLE PEROVSKITE OXIDES

Bradley E. Day*, Nicholas D. Bley, Heather Althouse, Ryan D. McCullough, Hank W. Eng, Spencer H. Porter, Patrick M. Wood- ward, and Paris W. Barnes. Chemistry Department, Millikin University, Decatur, Illinois 62522; Department of Chemistry, Earth Science, and As- tronomy, San Antonio College, 1300 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas 78212; Department of Natural Sciences, St. Philip’s College, 1801 Martin Luther King Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78203; Department of Chemistry, The Ohio State University, 100 W. 18th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210

2+ 6+ 2+ 2+ The crystal structures of six A2M M O6 (A = Ca, Sr, Ba; M = Mg, Ca, Zn; M6+=W, Mo) ordered perovskites were determined from X-ray and neutron powder diffraction data collected under ambient conditions. Ba2CaMoO6, Ba2CaWO6, and Ba2MgWO6 all adopt cubic symmetry 3 (space group Fm m, tilt system a0a0a0). The tolerance factors (t) of Ba2CaMoO6 and Ba2CaWO6 are slightly below one, suggesting double perovskites containing barium cations on the A-site prefer to adopt the aristotypical structure even though Ba2+ is slightly too small for the cavi- ties. Sr2ZnMoO6 crystallizes with tetragonal symmetry (I4/m) indicative of 0 0 – out-of-phase rotations of the MO6 octahedra along the c-axis (a a c ). nd ly related to ingbleizona work aty to work institutioning to me.because some of Sr2ZnWO6 crystallizes with monoclinic symmetry (P21/n) with in -phase octahedral tilting distortions along the a- and c-axes, and out-of- phase tilting along the b-axis (a–a–c+). The observation of monoclinic symmetry in Sr2ZnWO6 is surprising considering that its tolerance factor (t = 0.977) is approximately the same as the tolerance factor for Sr2ZnMoO6 (t = 0.979). Ca2CaWO6 (t = 0.867) clearly has P21/n symmetry with large tilting distortions along all three crystallographic axes and irregular CaO6 octahedra. Analysis of 34 additional tungsten- or molybdenum-containing double perovskites and their crystal structures show that octahedral tilting distortions are controlled by two factors – the nature of the A-cation and the tolerance factor.

(P9) PRESSURE-INDUCED STRUCTURAL AND OPTICAL CHANGES IN YIn1−xMnxO3

Zachary Hays*, Denise Freeman*, Karena Chapman, Peter Chupas, Gregory Halder, Clarence Josefson, and Paris W. Barnes. Chemistry Department, Millikin University, Decatur, Illinois 62522; Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, Illi- nois 60439

In 2009, new blue-colored inorganic compounds with compositions YIn1−xMnxO3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) were reported. The colors exhibited by this family of compounds arise due to the correlation between the arrangement of atoms and the way electrons in those atoms are distributed within the compound. The arrangement of atoms within the compound’s structure and associated electronic structure can be changed by applying external pressure. In this presentation, we will report on the changes in the crystal structure and color of several members of the YIn1−xMnxO3 family as a function of increasing external pressure.

(P10) COUNTING GOLD: USING ATOMIC FORCE MICROS- COPY TO CHARACTERIZE GOLD NANOPARTICLES

Steven Hurth* and Keenan Dungey. Chemistry Program, University of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, Illinois 62703

We are interested in the field of nanotechnology and more specifically, the research of gold nanoparticles. Research in the area of nanoparticles has become increasingly important in modern technology as they possess promising applications for such areas as medicine, chemistry, and computers. One significant benefit of gold nanoparticles is its possible use as a treatment for certain forms of cancer. The objectives of our research were to synthesize and characterize gold nanoparticles. Furthermore, we were interested in developing a methodology for a wide range of nanoparticles to be easily imaged by students and other researchers. In our research, gold nanoparticles were synthesized and then adhered to a glass plate for measuring by atomic force microscopy. Size distribution curves were prepared for different deposition times. Results of the research showed a consistent size pattern among gold nanoparticles regardless of synthesizing technique. Also, using freeware from nanotech.es, we were able to allow other users access to our nanoparticle images and data.

(P11) INHIBITION EFFECTS OF ZINC-IMIDAZOLE ON CAR- BOXYPEPTIDASE B

Ifad Noor and Dr. Layne Morsch. Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, Illinois 62703

Carboxypeptidase B is of interest because of its specificity and preference towards the basic amino acids, Arginine and Lysine. The B enzyme is a part of a family of carboxypeptidases, known to exclusively hydrolyze the pep- tide bonds of amino acid residues at the carboxy-terminal (C-terminal) end. The enzyme is natively in a monomeric state, consisting of an atom of zinc per molecule of protein. The active site residues of this enzyme consist of Glutamic Acid and Tyrosine. A range of known heavy metals and metal che- lating agents have been recognized to inhibit the catalytic action of this enzyme. The prospect of obtaining similar inhibitory effects through an organic agent is of great interest and presents itself with more possibilities in terms of controlling the activity of this enzyme. The catalytic activity of the prote- olytic enzyme, Carboxypeptidase B on the substrate, Hippuryl-L-Arginine was assessed via kinetics measurements. A UV-Vis spectroscopy method was applied in order to acquire initial catalytic rates with varying substrate concentrations. The enzyme concentrations were kept constant throughout the series of reactions. Reaction conditions varied for different studies, but it was confirmed that the optimal enzymatic activity could be obtained within a narrow pH range of 7.8 to 8.0. The acquired spectra were used to calculate the initial reaction velocities. The initial velocities were plotted against the respective substrate concentrations in order to produce a Michaelis-Menton plot. The constructed plot was used to obtain the Vmax and Km values for the particular enzyme, which are critical in monitoring the effects of inhibitors on the catalytic ability of the enzyme.

23 (P12) ACID EROSION OF TOOTH ENAMEL

Paige Wallace* and Anne Rammelsberg. Department of Chemistry, Millikin University, Decatur, Illinois 62522

Oral health is an essential part of overall health that is often overlooked. Weakening of the teeth through the consumption of acidic foods and bev- erages is an increasing problem that leads to tooth decay. To understand weakening of tooth enamel more clearly, protein and calcium loss were studied in vitro using atomic absorption spectroscopy and ultraviolet visi- ble spectroscopy after Canis lupus familiaris teeth were exposed to phosphoric acid. Calcium and protein losses were observed over a seven-day period in 85% phosphoric acid solution. While the calcium loss has been studied extensively, protein loss has not been thoroughly evaluated even though there is some reason to believe that the loss of protein is more dev- astating to teeth than calcium loss.

(P13) PREDICTION AND DETECTION OF SMALL MOLECULE INTERACTIONS WITH GOLD NANOPARTICLES

Tina Weder* and Anne Rammelsberg. Department of Chemistry, Mil- likin University, Decatur, Illinois 62522

To prevent toxic or harmful occurrences from various uses of nanoparticles (NPs), it is important to understand their interactions with biomole- cules. This research has provided a consistent laboratory procedure in which to study gold nanoparticle (AuNP) interaction with amino and organic acids in the presence of ssDNA and dsDNA. The system is sensi- tive to pH, salt concentration, DNA concentration, temperature, and order of addition. Aspartic Acid, Glutamine, Asparagine, Succinic Acid, Suc- cinic Anhydride, Malonic Acid, Maleic Acid, and Adipic Acid at concentrations from 1 to 40 micromoles per 400 microliters all interact with the AuNPs, preventing them from aggregating in the presence of dsDNA. In addition to lab experiments, SPARTAN software was used to simulate bonds between gold atoms and amino acids, organic acids, ssDNA, and dsDNA. The molecular mechanics calculation data for final energy values support the results fromexperiments with AuNPs and amino acids. Addi- tionally, computer models provide insight into how the moleculesbind with gold atoms. The most exothermic and most favorable interactions are between the alpha carbon and the gold atom.

24 HEALTH/MEDICAL

(P14) G(ALPHA)12 IS REQUIRED FOR THROMBOXANE A2 TO REGULATE TUMOR CELL MOTILITY

Babar Malik*, Xuejing Zhang and Daotai Nie. Department of Medi- cal Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois Uni- versity School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois 62702

Thromboxane (TX) A2 is a prostaglandin produced by metabolism of arachidonic acid through cyclooxygenase and thromboxane synthase. TXA2 is biologically active, mainly through activating its cognate, seven transmembrane, G protein coupled receptor. We previously reported that thromboxane A2 receptor (TP) was expressed in prostate cancer, and further activation of this receptor elicited cell contraction and modulated tumor cell motility through regulating small GTPase RhoA (Nie et al., Cancer Res 68: 115-121, 2008). This study aims to identify G alpha protein(s) involved in thromboxane A2 signaling in tumor cell motility.The expression of G alpha proteins in the PC3MM cells was studied by real- time PCR. Cell contraction assay was performed by staining cells with TRITC phalliodin. Tumor cell motility and invasion were evaluated using wound healing assay and transwell Boyden Chamber assay. To determine the roles of G alpha protein in thromboxane A2 signaling, we expressed different alleles of G alpha proteins (wild type, constitutive active) in PC3MM cells and then the subsequent effects on cell contractions was determined. We also depleted G alpha protein expression by short hairpin RNA and examined subsequent changes in cell contraction and migration after activation of TP. G(alpha)12 has been reported to play critical role in cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. These findings were validated by performing BrdU Incorporation assay, Cell proliferation assay and cell cycle analysis.PC3 MM cell line had the endogenous level of all the G alpha protein (G alpha 12, G alpha i1, G alpha 11, G alpha 13), but not G alpha q. Overexpression of G alpha 12/13 increased cell contraction after activation of thromboxane A2 receptor with U46619. Expression of constitutively active G alpha 12 by itself was suf- ficient to cause cell contraction, regardless whether TP is activated or not. Depletion of G alpha 12 via shRNAs reduced cell contraction after TP activation. Tumor cells with G alpha 12 depleted had shown decreased tumor cell motility, invasiveness and cell proliferation. The findings indicate that G alpha 12 is required for TP to induce cell contraction and to regulate tumor cell motility. The studies suggest G alpha 12 may be a promising target of intervention to reduce tumor cell motility and metastasis in prostate cancer.

(P15) TLR4 AS A NOVEL DETERMINANT OF PACLITAXEL SENSITIVITY IN METASTATIC BREAST CANCER

Sandeep Rajput*, Debasish Boral, Lisa Volk and Sophia Ran. Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois 62794

Paclitaxel is a potent cytotoxic drug frequently used against metastatic breast cancers. However, resistance develops also frequently with eva- sion mechanisms remaining largely unclear. Paclitaxel elicits both cytotoxic and pro-survival responses in tumor cells. The tumor-promoting effect of paclitaxel is currently unrecognized determinant for decreasing the apoptotic effect of paclitaxel therapy. The likely mechanism for paclitaxel-dependent tumor-activating effects is the ability of paclitaxel to activate Toll-like Receptor-4 (TLR4) pathway. Therefore we investi- gate the TLR4 role in paclitaxel resistance in breast cancer cells. TLR4 mRNA levels were determined in 18 breast carcinoma lines by RT- qPCR. Cytotoxic assays were used to correlate the level of TLR4 expression and responsiveness to paclitaxel. TLR4 was expressed in 60% of human breast cancer cell lines. TLR4 receptor in MDA-MB-231 line was functional as demonstrated by up-regulation of inflammatory cytokines. MDA-MB-231 line was ~4 fold more resistant to paclitaxel than HCC1806 lacking TLR4. Paclitaxel treatment also up-regulated the expression levels of cytokines receptors suggesting establishment of novel autocrine pro-survival and proliferative positive loops. These data show that paclitaxel up-regulates both inflammatory cytokines and their receptors in human breast carcinoma cells, likely through activation of the TLR4 pathway. Inflammatory pathway signaling increases survival and proliferation in TLR4-positive cells, suggesting that activation of this pathway in malignant cells maintain chronic inflammation and promote tumor growth and metastasis through both paracrine and autocrine loops. This study suggests that tumor resistance to paclitaxel might be determined by TLR4 expression, and that blocking TLR4 might significantly improve tumor response to paclitaxel therapy.

(P16) PSEUDOKINASE TRB3 EXERTS AN ANTIPROLIFERA- TIVE EFFECT AND PROMOTES A G2/M PHASE ARREST IN PROSTATE CANCER CELL LINE, PC-3

Djamilatou Saidou Hangadoumbo and Daotai Nie. Department of Med- ical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois 62794

Tribble-3 (Trb3), the human homolog of Drosophila melanogaster Trib- bles, is a novel serine/threonine protein kinase. Unlike conventional protein kinases, Trb3 kinase domain was reported to lack any catalytic activity, thus its classification as a pseudokinase. This protein can regulate different physiological processes including its involvement in cellular development, diabetes, autophagy, and stress-mediated apoptosis.Trb3 was also previously characterized as a negative regulator of the prosurvival proteins, Akt and NF- B. Furthermore, Trb3 is upregulated in different types of cancer, where its role still remains poorly characterized. The goal of this study is to decipher the biological function of Trb3 in cancer, including the molecular mechanism of action.

To determine the role of Trb3, endogenous Trb3 was depleted using small hairpin RNAs. Conversely, Trb3 was ectopically overexpressed in prostate cancer cells using CMV-driven Trb3 expression vector. Then subsequent effects of Trb3 ectopic expression or depletion on cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and colony formation were determined. Cell cycle analysis was performed using flow cytometry of propidium iodide stained cells.

We found that when overexpressed in prostate PC-3 cells, Trb3 inhibited tumor cell proliferation, reduced colony formation, and induced cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase. Overexpression of Trb3 also rendered PC-3 cells more susceptible to antitumor compounds. On the other hand, depletion of Trb3 stimulated cell proliferation and cell cycle progression.

27 (P17) LOSS OF G-PROTEIN COUPLED CALCIUM SENSING RECEPTOR AUGMENTS MALIGNANCY AND BESTOWS CANCER STEM CELL-LIKE PROPERTIES IN HUMAN CO- LON CARCINOMA CELLS Navneet Singh*, Guangming Liu, and Subhas Chakrabarty. De- partment of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois 62794

The G-protein coupled calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) is a robust promoter of differentiation in colonic epithelial cells. Loss of CaSR expression augments the malignant phenotype in vitro and is associated with undifferentiated and invasive colon carcinomas in vivo. Inter- estingly human colon carcinoma cell lines contain small subpopula- tions that do not express CaSR (termed CaSR null cells). Here, we report the isolation and characterization of CaSR null cells from the CBS and HCT116 human colon carcinoma cell lines. CaSR null cells were isolated by magnetic cell sorting and cultured in stempro medium. Biologic characterization of CaSR null cells showed that these cells were non- adherent and grew as three- dimensional spherical clusters with an increase in propensity for anchorage independent growth. CaSR null cells were highly invasive and resistant to treatment with cytotoxic drugs. CaSR null cells expressed a high level of thymidylate synthase and survivin which have been reported to be an underlying basis of drug resistance in colon cancer. Western analysis showed that CaSR null cells expressed a high level of the colon cancer stem cell markers. Molecular profiling by qRT-PCR revealed a significant increase in the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal tran- sition associated mRNA in CaSR null cells. Interestingly, CaSR null cells re-expressed CaSR, over time, when placed in culture medium used to propagate the parental cells. Re- expression of CaSR in CaSR null cells attenuated the expression of markers associated with the malignant phenotype. We conclude that CaSR null cells represent a highly malignant subpopulation of colon cancer cells and that these cells may possess cancer stem cell-like properties.

(P18) RETENTION OF INSULIN SENSITIVITY, GLUCOSE TOL- ERANCE, AND PYRUVATE CONVERSION PERFORMANCE IN FEMALE MIDDLE-AGED GROWTH HORMONE RECEPTOR KNOCKOUT (GHR-KO) MICE ON AN INTERMITTENT FAST- ING DIET

Mike Zerkle1*, Oge Arum2, Nona (Ravneet) Boparai2, Rachel E. Reeves3, and Andrzej Bartke.4 General Science Program, Lincoln Land Community College, Springfield, Illinois 62704,1 Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatrics Research, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois 62794,2 Biology Science Pro- gram, University of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, Illinois 62704,3 De- partments of Internal Medicine and Physiology, Division of Geriatrics Research, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois 627944

Longevity is certainly of considerable human health interest, but the retention of endocrine function is critically important to healthy life spanning into middle age and beyond. The research performed addressed the effect of an every-other-day intermittent fasting (I.F.) diet on “normal” littermate control mice (GHR-N) switched, at middle age, to I.F. for three months (GHR-N on I.F.) on performance on various endocrine system-related tests, in comparison to GHR-N mice that remain on an ad libitum diet (GHR-N on A.L.); as well as to assess the effects of the slow-aging growth hormone receptor gene-disruption “knockout” mutation (GHR-KO) on each diet (employing GHR-KO mice on A.L. and GHR-KO mice on I.F.). Three tests were devised (glucose tolerance test, insulin tolerance test, and pyruvate conversion test) to assess the endocrine function (clearing glucose from blood, insulin sensitivity, and conversion of pyruvate to glucose, resp.) of the four mouse groups during middle age. The hypothesis is that the mice on the intermittent fasting diet will perform equally or better in all areas of endocrine function previously mentioned. The data was formatted to compare both the effect of diet (intermittent fasting or ad libitum feeding), genotype (GHR-KO vs. GHR-N), and the interaction of the two (GHR-N on A.L. vs. GHR-KO on I.F.). A general conclusion of the results is that the intermittently fasted animals performed better on all tests, except the pyruvate conversion test; and that GHR-KO mice retain the phenotypic differences relative to their littermate controls that they had as young-adults. Male middle-aged Ames dwarf (Prop1df/df) mice are being tested currently and are expected to yield the same results. These results will be discussed in the context of relevance to the metabolic syndrome epidemic and practicable human interventional trials.

(P19) REGULATION OF MIR-145 EXPRESSION BY FOXO3A, C/ EBP-Β AND P53 IN CANCER CELLS

Nanjiang Zhou*, Mohit Sachdeva, and Yin-Yuan Mo. Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois 62794

Our laboratory has previously shown that miR-145 is a tumor suppressor that is downregulated in a variety of tumors. However, little is known about the downregulation of miR-145. p53 has been shown to induce miR -145 by interaction with the miR-145 promoter or through regulation of miR-145 processing; our recent results suggest that other factors are also involved in regulation of miR-145. For example, breast cancer cells express a low level of miR-145 regardless of the p53 status. Therefore, the goal of this study is to further characterize miR-145 regulation involving Foxo3a, C/EBP-β and p53 in cancer cells. We generated the miR-145 promoter luciferase reporter in pGL3-basic to determine the effect of Foxo3a, C/EBP-β or p53 on miR-145 promoter activity. We also made stable clones and used western blot and fluorenscence to detect expression of exogenous genes. Endogenous miR-145 levels were determined by TaqMan real time PCR after reverse transcription. We show that miR- 145 functions a downstream effector of Akt, and impacts tumor growth and invasion. Furthermore, we show Foxo3a induces miR-145 expression in the mutant p53 background; however, in the wild type p53 background, Foxo3a suppresses the ability of p53 to induce miR-145. On the other hand, C/EBP-β serves as a negative regulator of miR-145 in both wild type p53 and mutant p53 backgrounds, which is likely in part through regulation of Akt activity. A better understanding of this regulatory network will aid in the identification of novel cancer biomarkers and therapeutic targets, and improve cancer diagnosis and treatment.

30 PSYCHOLOGY

(P20) THE ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN DIMENSIONS OF IMPULSIVITY AND COMPULSIVE BUYING

Millie Doran, Mark Liszewski, Kayla Bimm, Matt Murphy and Paul Rose. Department of Psychology, Southern Illinois University of Ed- wardsville, Edwardsville, Illinois 62026

We were interested in determining how specific aspects of impulsivity play a role in compulsive buying. Compulsive buying has been linked to impulsivity, but it is not clear which dimensions of impulsivity are most important in the experience of compulsive buying. For our study we hypothesized that high impulsivity would predict strong compulsive buying. We surveyed 181 undergraduate college students using questions from the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale 11 (BIS-11) as well as the Ridgway Compulsive Buying Scale (RCBS) and controlled for sex and employment status. The three BIS-11 subscales: attentional impulsiveness, motor impulsiveness, nonplanning impulsiveness were moderately reliable with α’s in the .6 to .7 range. The RBCS was very reliable as expected with an alpha α = .81. The results from the BIS-11 showed the strongest predictor of compulsive buying was the Motor Impulsiveness subscale at p < .001. Therefore, out of the 3 subscales that comprise the BIS-11, we found that the motor impulsive subscale to be the best predictor of compulsive buying. This was surprising as we had expected the nonplanning impulsiveness subscale to be the strongest predictor. The BIS-11, and especially measures of Motor Impulsiveness, have potential to predict who is likely to be a compulsive buyer. However the BIS itself might need a revision of its questions because the subscales’ internal consisten- cy was not strong. Future research may better show the impulsive tendencies of compulsive buyers.

31 (P21) DIMINISHED AUDITORY CAPACITY AND ITS EFFECTS ON ATTENTION AND CONCENTRATION

Kaley A. Graves* and Sheryl Reminger. Psychology Department, University of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, Illinois 62703

We are interested in determining whether experiencing a form of diminished auditory capacity has an impact on attention and memory recall. This study aimed to measure how different levels of hearing can affect the capacity of the remaining four senses in a person, and show the resulting findings. Students between the ages of 18-60 at the University of Illinois at Springfield watched two videos at differing volume levels while wearing a set of headphones. Upon completion of each video, participants were asked to complete a short questionnaire based on the contents of the video that was just viewed. Our hypothesis was that reduced volume would en- hance performance on questions that assessed recall for visual information in the videos. Results showed that auditory levels did have a significant effect on overall performance, meaning that higher volume levels led to better memory recall (t = 2.59, p = .027). We did not find a statistically significant interaction in the relationship between volume levels and sen- sory conditions. However, further testing is in progress to obtain a suffi- cient sample size to test the primary hypothesis.

32 (P22) PERSONALITY CHARACTERISTICS RELATED TO EAR- LY OR LATE PARTICIPATION IN RESEARCH

Sara D. Lubeno* and Carrie Switzer. Psychology Department, University of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, Illinois 62703

This study examined the personality characteristics of students with re- gards to when they participated in a research study in the Psychology De- partment. We were specifically interested in which personality characteristics were related to early participation or late participation in the research study. In previous research, studies have linked the personality trait conscientiousness to being early in a workplace-type settings (Foust, Elicker, & Levy, 2006) and in a simulated meeting (Back, Schmukle, & Egloff, 2006). Additionally, the personality trait of time urgency has been linked to being early in a workplace setting (Dishon-Berkovits & Koslowsky, 2002). It is hoped that this research will identify potential relationships between multiple personality characteristics with regard to participation timing in a non-work setting. We hypothesized that conscientiousness and agreeableness would be negatively correlated with week of participation in the study. Using archival data, personality measures were compared in relation to the week of participation in a previous research study. Agreea- bleness was negatively correlated with week of participation r (117) = - .28, p < .002 and conscientiousness was negatively correlated with week of participation r (117) = -.19, p < .04 for the fall semester cohort. How- ever, correlation coefficients were not significant for the spring semester cohort. People who scored high on agreeableness and conscientiousness were more likely to participate early in the study, and people who scored low in agreeableness and conscientiousness were more likely to participate late in the study. Our findings coincided with previous research findings regarding conscientiousness in workplace (Back, Schmukle, & Egloff, 2006; Foust, Elicker, & Levy, 2006).

(P23) COMPONENTS OF IMPULSIVITY AS PREDICTORS OF FRUGALITY

Matthew R. Murphy*, Kayla J. Bimm*, Milly Doran, Mark Liszewski, and Paul Rose. Department of Psychology, Southern Illi- nois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville, Illinois 62026

In this study, we were interested in studying a variety of impulsivity factors in relation to frugality (the tendency to save money instead of spending it). By discovering factors that contribute to frugality, a better understanding of how consumers can be helped to spend wisely can be determined. Using multiple regression we correlated five different variables with frugality: sex, employment status, attentional impulsiveness, motor impulsiveness, and non-planning impulsiveness. The survey was administered online to male and female college students. The results of the study yielded a clear negative relationship between frugality and non-planning impulsivity. Other variables of interest, including sex, employment status, attentional impulsiveness, and motor impulsiveness were not significantly related to frugality. This study not only helps show which factors predict frugality but also aids in showing how little other variables, such as sex and employment-status, matter.

Acknowledgements

Symposium Organizers

Symposium Chair: Dr. Layne Morsch Symposium Vice-Chair: Dr. Sheryl Reminger Symposium Program: Laura Laurenzana Budget & Expenses: Dr. Wayne Gade Keynote Speaker Arrangements: Dr. James Bonacum Judge & Moderator Selection Committee: Dr. Hua Chen Conference Services: Carolyn Neitzke

Sponsors and Facilitators Biology Department Chemistry Department Clinical Laboratory Science Department Psychology Department Natural Science Division The Chemistry Club Student Organization Funding Association Board UIS Research Board UIS Speaker’s Award Committee

Judges Oral Presentations Poster Presentations Dr. Keenan Dungey (CHE) Dr. Hua Chen (BIO) Dr. Michael Lemke (BIO) Dr. Keenan Dungey (CHE) Dr. John Martin (ASP) Dr. Michael Lemke (BIO) Dr. Amy McEuen (BIO) Dr. John Martin (ASP) Dr. Amy McEuen (BIO) Dr. Carrie Switzer (PSY)

We wish to express a special thanks to student advisors, mentors and collaborators. Your guidance is essential for the training of tomorrow’s scientists.