Graduate Student Research Presentations
SIUE Graduate School
Research Symposium – April 1, 2019
Morris University Center - Goshen Lounge
Student Presentations - 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm
Anderson, Zach "Improving the Effectiveness of Telerobot Communication Through the Use of a Motion Controlled Robotic Arm"
- The ability of an individual to communicate through a telepresence robot often suffers from a disconnect due to the lack of the nonverbal gestures and interactions that otherwise define interpersonal communication. We present our work, in conjunction with the mechanical engineering department at Saint Louis University, on the process of developing a robotic arm capable of being controlled by a human operator using a motion tracking system; allowing the movements of the robotic arm to be mapped directly onto the movement of a remote user’s arm. We demonstrate this system, along with presenting some preliminary results comparing the effectiveness of interaction with and without the arm system.
Bhandari B C, Suyesha "Novel Sigma Receptor Ligand Mitigates Microglia Inflammatory Response"
- Sigma receptor 1 (Sig1R) and 2 (Sig2R) are expressed in central nervous system, in neurons and microglia. Modulation of these receptors has been identified for the treatment of inflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This research evaluated the impact of BBZI, a novel pan-selective Sig1R-Sig2R ligand in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease and microglia activation. BBZI has high affinity Sig1R-Sig2R (Sig1R: Ki=0.8nM; Sig2R: Ki=2.5nM), with 100-fold selectivity over a panel of 30 other receptors. Twelve-month old Senescence Accelerated Mouse Prone-8 (SAMP8) and 3xTg AD mice were treated with BBZI (i.c.v.) across a dosing range (0, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1.0μg), and assessed for memory response via T-maze. BBZI was also evaluated in BV2 microglia cells concurrent with inflammatory activation via lipopolysaccharide (LPS). After plating for 24hrs, cells were treated for 24hrs with BBZI (0, 10, 100, 1000nM) against LPS (0, 10, 100ng/mL). Alamar Blue (cellular proliferation) and nitrite (surrogate of nitric oxide) output in media. BBZI significantly enhanced memory in SAMP8 mice at both 0.001μg and 0.01μg doses (p<0.01), and in 3xTg mice at 0.01μg dose (p<0.05), compared to vehicle controls. The mean percent reduction of alamar blue decreased with increasing concentrations of BBZI (p<0.05). The mean percent reduction of alamar blue was significantly lower for 1000nM BBZI compared to 0nM BBZI (p<0.05). No significant difference in nitrite level was observed with increasing concentrations of BBZI (p=0.65). These results identify pan-selective Sig1R-Sig2R ligand capacity to enhance memory in two age mouse models of AD, with further capacity to impact of microglial proliferation. Such a panselective ligand shows viability for treatment of cognitive and neurodegenerative conditions.
Brown, Grace "Assess The Stress: The Effect of Child Behavior Related to Parental Stress"
- Assess The Stress: The Effect of Child Behavior Related to Parental Stress Children who have experienced trauma often have behavior problems, and their caregivers experience stress. Before initiating treatment, it is important to assess family functioning. A non-profit agency located in Madison County serves the needs of children who have experienced maltreatment. This agency offers a variety of services, including weekly therapy sessions for both children and caregivers at no cost to the family. The non-profit agency uses standard measures to assess new clients, including the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), as well as the Parental Stress Index Short-Form (PSI-SF). The CBCL is an assessment that measures problem behaviors in children including both internalizing and externalizing factors. Various studies have been conducted supporting significant reliability and validity when using the CBCL assessment. The PSI-SF is 36-item questionnaire that is used to measure caregiver stress. This study will look at correlations between caregiver stress and child behavior at assessment. Initial CBCL and PSI-SF scores will help determine the triage of counseling services for incoming families. It is theorized that caregivers become overwhelmed as a result of children who often act out; it is also possible that parents who are stressed have lower quality parenting skills, which ultimately lead to increased child behavior issues. Key words: stress, caregiver, neglect, abuse
Cheatham, Victoria "Intersectional Activists Utilize Artmaking to Foster Connection and Sustainment: A Participatory Action Research Project"
- A recent comprehensive report concludes that human actions have triggered global climate change through unabated emissions of greenhouse gases. Climate change policies must be implemented to reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Prior research has found that climate change perceptions vary due to specific factors, such as, party identity, geographic location, age, and education level. This study will use an adapted published survey, which has been applied nationally to assess city aldermens’ perceptions and policy preferences. These survey data in conjunction with city aldermen interviews will examine how local politicians think about climate change policy and factors that inform their decision making. The results will contribute to theories regarding effective climate change communication and education.
Crain, Alder "If Mama Ain't Happy, Ain't Nobody Happy - A Study on the Cross-Correlation Between the Change in CBCL and PSI Scores"
- A Madison County youth and care agency provides a double program to children who have experienced the trauma of violence, neglect and abuse. The double program includes child therapy and caregiver support in the form of counseling and parenting education. Child therapy is generally considered effective when the child’s behavior problems decrease. Caregiver support is generally considered effective when parental stress is reduced. As done in many other research studies, the success of child therapy can be measured by the change in Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) scores between intake and the most recent assessment. The success of caregiver support can be measured by the change in the Parental Stress Index (PSI) scores between intake and the most recent assessment. Various research has been done on the cross-correlation between CBCL and PSI scores. This research suggests a strong interaction between the child’s internalizing and externalizing behavior problems and parental stress. Higher behavioral problems in children lead to higher parental stress. Inversely, higher parental stress leads to more behavior problems in children. Less research has been done on the cross-correlation between the change in CBCL and PSI scores. This study aims to make a modest contribution to the research on this cross-correlation. It will investigate whether a greater success in the agency’s child therapy (indicated by an improved CBCL score) cross-correlates with a greater success in the agency’s caregiver support (indicated by an improved PSI score).
Cuellar Buritica, Julian "Detection of Syrinx in Thermographic Images of Canines with Chiari Malfomation Using MATLAB CVIP Toolbox GUI"
- A software tool was developed for application to thermographic images of canines to identify syrinx or no-syrinx classes in dogs exhibiting Chiari malformation. The MATLAB CVIP Toolbox was used to create a Graphical User Interface(GUI) for feature extraction and pattern classification. The thermographic images were obtained from the Long Island Veterinary Specialists(LIVS). Histogram and texture features were extracted from the images and used for pattern classification. Efficacy of the new development tool is shown by this initial investigation and the potential of such custom software tools in automating the research and development of medical diagnostic procedures makes it a valuable approach.
Dahal, Anuja "Role of Dicer1 Gene and Dicer2 Gene in RNA Mediated Gene Silencing in S. Commune"
- Functions of Two Predicted dicer-like Genes in RNA Interference mechanism of the Model Mushroom Fungus Schizophyllum commune. ‘RNA interference (RNAi) is a conserved mechanism in eukaryotes that uses 20-30 nucleotide RNA molecules to suppress the expression of a target gene. RNAi triggers silencing through homology-dependent mRNA degradation, and has been described in a number of eukaryotes. Natural RNAi serves diverse functions including antivirus defense, transposon silencing, centromeric organization, and chromatin remodeling, and has been manipulated to alter gene expression for basic research and therapeutic applications. RNAi mechanisms include RNases called Dicers. Two genes in the mushroom-forming fungus Schizophyllum commune (Gene IDs 9586776 and 9596013, Schco v3.0; genome.jgi.doe.gov) are predicted to encode Dicer-like proteins Dcl-1, Dcl-2. De Jong et al. (2006) demonstrated hairpin-induced RNA silencing in S. commune by successfully silencing the SC15 gene. Additional information is required to know if both dicer-like genes have contributions to RNAi. Knockout mutations for dcl-1 and dcl-2 were previously generated and we learned a double knockout affects RNAi negatively (D. Karcher, MS thesis, SIUe, 2018). This study is to assess the contributions of Dcl-1 and Dcl-2 to S. commune RNAi. We have produced strains in which a dsRNA hairpin of SC15 is produced in a dcl-1 knockout mutant background to determine if RNAi can be induced. SC15 mRNA expression will be monitored through northern hybridization and the effects of the dcl-1 knockout by phenotypic analyses. We expect the dcl-1 knockout strains and a companion study with dcl-2 will reveal the roles of these predicted dicers in the RNAi mechanism and in developmental processes of S. commune.
Davis, Paige "Acute Effects of Resistance Training on Sex Hormone Concentrations During Different Phases of the Menstrual Cycle"
- Although there are numerous studies showing effects of aerobic training on sex hormone concentrations, research analyzing the fluctuation of sex hormones in response to resistance training (RT) is lacking. The objective of this project is to analyze estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) responses to an acute resistance training session throughout different phases of the menstrual cycle. This proposed research has strong implications for exercise prescription and for women in general, but more importantly will allow exercise physiologists, coaches, personal trainers, or nutritionists optimize exercise programming around women’s menstrual cycle. Menstrual cycles occur in two phases: follicular phase (FP) and luteal phase (LP), which is separated by the ovulatory phase (see Figure 1). FP and LP can be subdivided as early (E - first half) and late (L - second half) stages (EFP and ELP, and LFP and LLP respectively). Low-volume acute RT was able to induce greater increases in E2 during the mid-LP (days 19-22 of the menstrual cycle). (Kraemer, 1995). In addition, high-intensity RT reported significant increases of E2 and P4 only during mid-LP (days 21-24). (Nakamura, 2011) Results from these studies suggest that more comprehensive research is needed to fully understand the effects of exercise in E2 and P4. In all, intensity seems to play a key role in exercise-induced changes in E2 and P4. (Kraemer, 1995; Nakamura, 2011) Therefore, the aim of this project is to study the responses of E2 and P4 to acute RT in different phases of the menstrual cycle.
Davis, Rachel "Quantitation and Localization of Endocrine Disruptor Compounds Accumulation in Fathead Minnows by Complementary Mass Spectrometry Analyses"
- Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) are chemicals that can block or mimic natural hormones in the endocrine system. EDCs can enter the environment via disposal through treatment of livestock, garbage, and human excretion. Once in the environment, aquatic vertebrates are exposed to these compounds and undergo side effects. The study focuses on beta blockers’, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors’ (SSRIs), and a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor’s (SNRI) accumulation concentrations and location of the accumulation within fathead minnows. Exposing fish at environmentally relevant concentrations allows for an accurate representation of how these EDCs affect aquatic vertebrates. The data analysis techniques LCMS and MALDI MSI were employed to determine the exact concentration and the specific tissues the EDCs accumulated. Entire minnows were analyzed by LCMS to determine global concentration. Results showed that the EDC atenolol did not accumulate at exposure concentrations of 10, 1, 0.1 ppb. Exposures to propranolol at 1, 0.1, and 0.01 ppb resulted in accumulation concentrations of 4.150 ± 9.552, 0.02956 ± 0.02056, and 0.05571 ± 0.02315 ppm, respectively. Exposures to citalopram at 100, 10, and 1 ppb resulted in accumulation concentrations of 96.76 ± 69.88, 2.002 ± 0.9148, and 0.3002 ± 0.2659 ppm, respectively. Exposures to paroxetine at 0.1, 0.01, and 0.001 ppb resulted in accumulation concentrations of 0.3526 ± 0.1793, 0.05319 ± 0.06939, and 0.2214 ± 0.1573 ppm. MALDI MSI analyzed minnows to determine localization of EDCs, and then dissection of those areas were analyzed by LCMS to determine local accumulation concentration. Results showed local accumulation of paroxetine, citalopram, atenolol, and propranolol.
- This project is to build a teaching robot that allows multiple teachers from different places teaching students in a classroom remotely at the same time. Teachers picture will appear on the TPRobot's screen, and their voice will come out of the built-in speakers. Teachers can use the projector in the classroom remotely through TPRobot to show their slides. More main features about TPRobot: 1. TPRobot use Mecanum wheels to walk, this kind of wheel allows TPRobot to pan sideways at any angle along a straight line or a curve. So, TPRobot can always face to students while it is moving during lecture. 2. TPRobot uses sensors of drop prevention, collision and spinning laser range finder map the whole classroom and protect itself. 3. Far-field microphone array helps TPRobot locate students voice and turn to the speaking student automatically. It also improves the quality of voice collection. 4. The on-board camera gets students picture, and with the built-in computer image processing, TPRobot can memorize and recognize every student to help teachers do works like attendance check and locating students. 5. With the module of power management, teachers can monitor robots’ power status, and TPRobot goes to charging bay automatically according to command or when it is appropriate to do so.
England, Tessa "Meristem-specific expression of GERANYLGERANYL DIPHOSPHATE SYNTHASE 11 (GGPPS11) to rescue the ggpps11 mutant"
- The biosynthesis of isoprenoids is an important pathway involved in the production of various products such as carotenoids and chlorophyll. Although much is known about chlorophyll, there are still some questions remaining on how plants prioritize the partitioning of chlorophyll and carotenoid precursor molecules. Within the plastidial MEP pathway, geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase 11 is a major producer of the branchpoint compound GGPP. A point mutation in GGPPS11 in Arabidopsis thaliana (ggpps11) causes a variegated leaf phenotype. The leaf morphology of the mutant is also altered in a temperature dependent manner. We hypothesize that this temperature dependent variegation is caused by a temperature gradient within the shoot apical meristem that leads to differential activity of GGPPS11 in meristem layers. To test this, we will attempt to rescue the ggpps11 mutant by expressing wild-type GGPPS11 within individual meristem areas using the promoters for WUS and AtML1. Variegation patterns will be observed and analyzed to determine if rescue in a specific layer of the meristem will restore the wild-type phenotype and provide more insight into the regulation of variegation in ggpps11.
Fraundorf, Scott "Clustering Methods for Discovering Patterns in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) Data"
- Applying clustering algorithms to Alzheimer's patient data from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuro-imaging Initiative
Freres, Hailey "Does Osteopontin Regulate Twist Expression in Salivary Gland Cancer?"
- Human salivary gland (SG) cancer is a rare but often life-threatening disease due to its asymptomatic nature, which frequently leads to a late stage diagnosis. Attempting to identify SG cancers earlier to support a more favorable prognosis, scientists have suggested targeted therapies. As a molecular target in cancer therapeutics, TWIST proteins play a key role in the progression of cancer to a metastatic stage and may serve as an independent prognostic marker for patient survival. Osteopontin (OPN) is a critical signaling molecule regulating downstream TWIST. Another protein regulating the mechanisms of cell proliferation, survival, and invasion, is Fos-related Antigen 1 (Fra-1). Fra-1 regulates cell morphology by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is important during embryonic development, but also implicated in pathological conditions. Although we previously established the independent roles of OPN and Fra-1 in cancer progression, possible interconnections between OPN, Fra-1, and TWIST have not been studied. Our research examined potential upstream regulation of Fra-1 by OPN through the mitogen activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-related kinase (MAPK/ERK) pathway. Immunofluorescence and immunoblotting were used to localize and quantify components of the signaling pathway in normal and cancer SG cell lines. Further modulation of the pathways using ERK1/2 activators and inhibitors, and OPN silencing via siRNA silencing techniques were used to evaluate the role of OPN in regulating Fra-1. Our initial data show OPN regulates Fra-1 and Fra-1 induces TWIST to initiate EMT indicating future therapies targeting OPN could be effective in controlling downstream Fra-1 and TWIST and, thereby, limit cancer cell development.
Fulton, Alexandrya "Interactions of Lysozyme and Ammyloid Formation"
- Lysozyme is an antibacterial enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of 1,4-beta-linkages between N-acetylmuramic acid (NAM) and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (NAG). Human variants of lysozyme are involved in fibrillogenic amyloid formation through beta-sheet aggregation which underlies a range of fatal diseases. However, the mechanism, the kinetics, and partial misfolded or oligomer intermediates, is not clear. Here we systematically studied the lysozyme aggregation at different pH and 70oC using fluorescence, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and atomic force microscopy (AFP). We plan to determine the correlation with the data obtained from different techniques. Furthermore, several agents are identified to have specific and non-specific interactions with lysozyme, including NAG oligomer and polyacrylic sodium salt (PAAN).
Givan, Amy "Effects of Short-Term High-Intensity Resistance Training on Regional Abdominal Adiposity in Females with Obesity"
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Background: Total abdominal fat can be classified into visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). VAT is deposited around vital organs and has been linked to the development of cardiometabolic diseases, while SAT – located beneath the skin – has protective metabolic effects. Exercise has been successful at reducing total abdominal fat with aerobic exercise being the most effective. However, evidence studying significant effects of resistance training (RT) in VAT along the anatomical trunk is lacking. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of RT on total and regional abdominal adiposity in females with obesity. Methods: Eleven females (23.45+3.96 years) with obesity class one and two were randomized into control or RT group. Assessments included magnetic resonance imaging and a maximal strength test (1RM). Exercise was performed 3 times a per week for 3 weeks and included 3 circuits of 7 exercises involving major muscle groups at an intensity of 70% 1RM. Results: Non-parametric test showed statistically significant percentage of change (%∆) in VAT at thoracic 11 (-5.6+ 18.15, z= -2.37, p = .02) and thoracic 10 (-7.5+12.37, z = -2.37, p = .004). No significant results were found for %∆SAT at any of the vertebral regions. Significant improvements in strength were observed (p<0.005). Conclusion: RT was successful at targeting regional VAT of the thoracic cavity, while no changes were detected on total abdominal fat, VAT, or SAT. Therefore, body weight or waist-to-hip-ratio are not sensitive enough for predicting changes in VAT post-RT.
Gorre, Naveena "MRI Brain Tumour Detection"
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Many people suffer from brain tumour, it is a serious and dangerous disease. The National Brain Tumour Foundation (NBTF) for research in United States estimates that 29,000 people in the U.S are diagnosed with primary brain tumours each year, and nearly 13,000 people die. Medical imaging provides proper diagnosis of brain tumour. Unlike CT scans, which use X-rays, MRI scans use powerful magnetic fields and pulses to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, and other body structures. Differences between normal and abnormal tissue is often clearer on an MRI image than a CT. To detect the tumour from brain is most important and difficult part, image segmentation is used for this. Brain tumour segmentation consists of separating the different tumour tissues (solid or active tumour, necrosis) from normal brain tissues. We proposed an algorithm for detecting the brain tumour using digital image processing. Obtaining the images captured using MRI sensor and analyzing this image sequence using digital image processing for brain tumour detection and recognition. So, the main objective of this project is to identify the tumour at early stage avoiding further death rates.
- The Intersections Project seeks to uncover what emerges in artwork and conversation among six intersectional activists in St. Louis, Missouri. The research methodology nests grounded theory as a mode of deep listening within an overarching participatory action research model. The Intersections Project was composed of two artmaking and dialogue meetups, an informal group gathering, individual interviews, and a documentary that shared the project with the wider community. Artmaking became a mode through which intersectional activists formed supportive connections and shared collective knowledge about the workings/un-workings of society and how movements can work intersectionality to instill transformational rather than reformative change. Using critical and constructivist lenses, this research furthers intersectional discourse among movement communities and fills a gap in the literature at the crossroads of activism and psychological health, as well as intersectional art therapy.
Hartlieb, Lisa "Getting Care and Getting There: Caregiver type Affects Counseling Success"
- Getting Care and Getting There: Caregiver Type Affects Counseling Success Lisa Hartlieb, Tessa Cantrill, Chelsea Nichols, Larrisha Tidwell Children’s behavior is related to parenting. The type of caregiver of a child in treatment could have an effect on a variety of factors. A non-profit organization located in Madison County, Illinois, serves a variety of children whose caregivers are biological parents, grandparents who are caregivers, and foster parents. Our research explores relationships between types of caregivers and child behavior. In addition, we examine whether the type of caregiver is correlated with the number of counseling sessions a child attends in the course of twelve consecutive months. This non-profit organization serves children who have experiences trauma due to violence, neglect, abuse, and bullying. Children who are maltreated benefit from receiving counseling services. The relationship between counseling attendance and child behavior can be measured with the Child Behavior Checklist. Because children are not able to attend without the assistance of an adult guardian, we believe that attendance rates may be affected by household composition. We propose that family support as evidences by attendance of counseling sessions is a key variable in improved Child Behavior Checklist scores, and that household composition affects attendance. Keywords: caregivers, counseling, attendance, behavior, Child Behavior Checklist
Hay, Evan "The Conformational Changes of the 3rd and 4th EF-Hands of Calmodulin Are Important for the Recognition of Fas-Associated Death Domain"
- Calmodulin (CaM) has a critical role in calcium (Ca2+) signal transduction with the cell. The Fas death receptor (FasR) apoptotic pathway has been shown to be regulated by Ca2+ fluctuations within the cell. Recently, these fluctuations have been showed to be regulated by CaM. However, the interaction is not well characterized. For this study, two synthetic Fas Death Domain peptides (FADD-pep1 and FADD-pep2), were used to explore their binding to CaM. Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC) was used to determine the interactions of CaM and the FADD peptides. Four chimeras were created by replacing an EF-hand in CaM with the same EF-hand seen in Troponin C (TnC), which binds to Ca2+ but has opposite effects as seen in CaM. The structural changes by Ca2+ was assessed by heat capacity change (∆Cp). Our results showed that CaM’s binding function was significantly changed when the 3rd and 4th EFs are exchanged, this correlates to the C-terminal domain. Our ITC data also indicated a relatively weak binding of CaM to the shorter FADD-pep1 with (Ka=5.5 x 104M-1) and a moderate binding to the longer FADD-pep2 (Ka=3.9 x 105M-1). Our data also indicated that the main driving force for FADD-pep1 binding to CaM, 1TnC, and 2TnC is an enthalpic-entropic interaction. While the binding to 3rd and 4th chimeras is an enthalpic interaction.
Imran, Mohiuddin "Identifying Risk Factors of Motor Vehicle Crashes Among Older Population in Illinois"
- Adults aged 65 or older form a vulnerable population that are susceptible to road traffic injuries. Motor vehicle crashes are among the leading causes of unintentional injury deaths for older population. From 2006 to 2015, the fatality rate among older pedestrians, pedalcyclists, and drivers increased by 10%, 12%, and 3% respectively. In 2015 older adults made up 15% (47 million) of the U.S. population, while 17.6% (6,615) traffic fatalities involved people aged 65 or more. As the older population keeps increasing with an expected number of 72 million (20%), agencies are facing more challenges in improving older people safety. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has identified older drivers as an emphasis area in the Illinois Strategic Highway Safety Plan. This research will recommend strategies to reduce the frequency and severity of motor vehicle crashes among older adults while promoting mobility and independence of them.
Jones, Bradley "Effects of the Picoloyl Subsituent in Chemical Sialylations"
- Sialic acids are around fifty monosaccharides derivatives of Neuraminic acid. The most common member of this family is N-Acetyl Neuraminic acid, expressed in humans mainly linked to galactose and galactosamine at the terminal position of carbohydrate chains in cell surface. Additional glycosidic linkages as dimers and polymers have been also detected. In this strategic position on the cell surface, N-Acetyl Neuraminic acid is involved in a large variety of biological functions, including cell-cell recognition, infection of pathogen, and oncogenesis. The synthesis of these natural compounds is needed for the design of drugs and vaccines as well for a better understanding of their biological functions. Herein we describe an overview of the accomplishments done in the field for the stereocontrolled synthesis of sialic acid containing oligosaccharides.
Kamm, Dakota "The Effect of Diet and Sex Differences on Cortical Tight Junction Protein Expression in Senescence-Accelerated Mouse-Prone 8 (SAMP8) Mice"
- Alzheimer’s disease, the leading cause of dementia, is strongly correlated with aging; however, the influence of diet on Alzheimer’s disease progression remains to be completely understood. Due to improved longevity and growth of the elderly (65+ years) population, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease is expected to increase to 13.8 million by 2050. PURPOSE: To determine the effect of diet and sex on markers of BBB integrity in an age-accelerated mouse model. METHODS: Male (n=24) and female (n=26), 12-week old, SAMP8 mice were randomly assigned, matched for sex, to either a standard diet (SD) or a Western diet (WD) that was high in fat (45%kcal) and fructose (24%kcal) until 12 months of age. At 12-months of age, cortical brain tissue was evaluated for the expression of mRNA for targets associated with blood-brain-barrier (BBB) integrity (Claudin-5, Claudin-12, JAM-A, Msfd2a, Occludin, ZO-1, and BDNF) using quantitative RT-PCR. A 2-way (diet x sex) ANOVA was used to identify significant differences (p<0.05) between groups. Overall, female mice presented with higher expression of mRNA markers for BBB integrity, which may lend to sex-related protection against Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, mice fed the WD had lower mRNA expression of markers of BBB integrity suggesting that a Western diet may accelerate the pathogenesis of the disease state.
Koontz, Josie "The Importance of Didactic Education"
- Didactic education is a group-based intervention used in various inpatient, outpatient, and institutional settings to teach skills including reading, writing, organization, time, and financial management. The use of didactic education groups has been employed with persons who are incarcerated, persons with substance use disorders and other mental health challenges. For this research project a didactic education group curriculum was developed that covered topics including: financial management, time management, how to clean, how to make a grocery list, sleep hygiene, and etiquette. The curriculum was delivered at a local social service agency that serves persons with substance use and mental health disorders. Participation in the group was voluntary and separate from participation in the evaluation component. Three sessions that focused on financial literacy and management skills were evaluated using a pre-test/post-test model. This poster will present the didactic education curriculum developed by the researcher, discuss challenges associated with participant engagement and data collection, and present preliminary findings from the pre-test/post-test evaluation.
Lee, SoYeon "Exploaration of Antibiotics in Soil: Method Development and Prood-of-Concept Analysis"
- The concerns about antibiotic resistance have been growing around the world for several decades. Many researchers have explored antibiotics level in waterways, but there have been only a studies on antibiotics in soils. Research on the fate of antibiotics in soil is a significant area since soil is a major source of antibiotics in the environment. Development of a robust and reproducible method for quantifying antibiotics needs to be achieved to trace the fate of antibiotics. In this study, ultrasonic assisted extraction (UAE) and microwave assisted extraction (MAE) have been compared for efficacy for the extraction of fluoroquinolone and macrolide classes of antibiotics. Solid phase extraction (SPE) was utilized to clean up extracts, followed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS). LC-MS-MS was performed for fluoroquinolones and macrolides based on calibration curves with R-squared values above 0.998.
Lewis, Dana "Honoring a Jazz Incredible: Creating the Jean Kittrell Digital Exhibit"
- Known during her long career as the “Red Hot Mama of Dixieland Jazz” and “America’s First Lady of Jazz,” pianist and vocalist Jean Kittrell was a truly incredible woman. To celebrate her life and legacy, a digital exhibit featuring objects from the Jean Kittrell Collection in the National Ragtime and Jazz Archive at SIUE’s Lovejoy Library is scheduled for May 2019. The exhibit has been in development since 2016 with initial digitization efforts by Anthropology Department undergraduate Emily Warf and exhibit development and implementation in the Omeka platform by Cultural Heritage and Resource Management graduate student Dana Lewis. The project is supported through a Competitive Graduate Award and mentoring from faculty members Therese Dickman (Fine Arts Librarian) and Dr. Cory Willmott (Anthropology). This poster highlights the stages of exhibit development including research, content selection, digitization, storyboarding, and wireframe creation while also noting challenges and opportunities unique to the digital environment. Past project components, especially metadata creation and workflow documentation, are discussed as they fit into the larger project. The future trajectory of the project through exhibit completion and publishing is also outlined. Overall, this exhibit will contribute to the wider body of knowledge of Dixieland jazz history and contemporary revival as well as women in jazz. More specifically, however, the goal of this exhibit is to honor Jean’s legacy as an incredible member of the Edwardsville and SIUE community.
Lloyd, Laura "Characterization of CaBD-EFD and DH Domain Interactions within NOX5"
- NADPH Oxidase (NOX) species produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which aids in cellular signaling. A lack of ROS and even an excess of ROS are thought to play a role in the formation of heart disease, granulomas, and even cancer. NOX species are being studied due to their role in the formation of these reactive oxygen species. NOX5 specifically has three domains including the EF domain, transmembrane domain, and dehydrogenase (DH) domain. This semester I spent my time focusing on different subdomains of the DH domain including pmal C2X DH 665-719 which contains the calmodulin and caveolin binding site, and pmal C2X DH 605-719 which also contains the regulatory EF Hand binding domain. The expression and purification methods were adjusted to produce a higher purity and higher yield of these subdomains of protein in order for Stern-Volmer Quenching experiments in the future. These subdomains are studied to see if the binding of calmodulin causes a conformational change within the DH domain.
Menon, Rahul "Portrayal of Asian Indians in American Films from 2008 to 2018"
- A content analysis to examine 41 characters from 41 compiled films. Sampling was done on films from 2008 to 2018, that had major studio backing i.e. they had a wide release/distribution all over U.S or was screened at a major international film festival. The criteria of sampling was that the film should have at least one ethnically Indian actor playing a character or Non-Indian actor playing an Asian Indian character. A database of such films was created, and the films were examined at one level – ‘Character’, to analyze how an Asian Indian character is portrayed on screen in terms of casting, language, defining trait, occupation and class.
Mincy, Callie "Cancer Cohort Matrix Induces Adhesion Molecule Expression Differences in Salivary Gland Cells"
- Once a primary tumor has developed in cancer patients, cells are able to individually migrate away from this primary site and travel to other areas of the body. Previous studies conducted in our laboratory have shown that salivary gland cancer cells break away from the primary tumor as individuals but travel throughout the body as groups or cohorts. Migration studies revealed these cohorts to be more aggressive than even the cancerous cells. This increase in aggressive behavior may be linked to an increase in cancer progression and consequently a poor prognosis. Cohorts also displayed a unique expression of cell adhesion molecules where an increase in expression was seen within the center along with a decreased expression in marginal cells. We then investigated whether the extracellular matrix (ECM) played a role in cohort formation and behavior. The extracellular matrix is a network of proteins secrete by the cells to function in cell to cell communication an interaction. Our preliminary studies on the effects of a cancerous matrix on normal salivary gland cell behavior resulted in an early loss of adhesion molecules seen within the cells, suggesting they were in a transitory stage which could ultimately lead to complete loss of cell adhesion. Because these results revealed that the cancerous ECM did have influence on adhesion molecule loss, we hypothesize the testing of cohort ECM effects on normal salivary gland cells will produce a significant increase in cell adhesion proteins. To test cohort ECM effects, cancer cohort cells will be culture to 80-90% confluency and then stripped from their ECM. Normal cells will then be seeded on this cohort cancer ECM and cultured to 80-90% confluency. Immunofluorescence techniques will then be used to fluorescently stain for cell adhesion molecules. Scanning electron microscopy will also be performed to compare morphological differences between a normal salivary gland ECM, a cancerous ECM, the cohort ECM, and the normal cells grown on the cohort ECM for comparison.
Obuekwe, Chiagozie "Assessing the Impact of the Global Environmental Facility in World Bank Environmental Reform"
- The World Bank (WB) is the largest international financial organization in the world but has been criticized for implementing developmental projects that have detrimental effects on the environment. Since 1991, the WB has been an implementing agency for the Global Environment Facility (GEF), where it implements a substantial number of projects with the aim of providing global environmental benefits. The WB has also made significant efforts in-house to become more environmentally conscious by integrating environmental activities into its development projects. Preliminary research suggests that WB implemented GEF projects have better environmental outcomes than WB projects. This research seeks to determine the extent of impact that the GEF has made on the WB in terms of placing greater emphasis on environmental protection. I hypothesize that the disparity between the environmental outcomes of both project types has its roots in evaluation standards, project supervision effectiveness and competition from other multilateral agencies. The execution of this research will be done through a comparative case study method that will select completed WB implemented GEF projects and WB projects without GEF involvement for which post-project evaluations are available. I anticipate that my findings will help to increase understanding of agency-level determinants of the environmental outcomes of WB implemented GEF projects and WB projects.
Pruitte, Kayla "Framing Eating Disorder Recovery on Instagram"
- Eating disorder recovery is not a linear process, and due to the stigma and stereotypes surrounding eating disorders in the media, many who struggle with the illness are hesitant to seek help for fear of not being “sick enough.” Social media sites, such as Instagram, have become popular ways in which people share their own experiences with mental illness. However, they can be detrimental in that they can add to the stigma surrounding eating disorders, instead of negating it. Due to this, there is a need to examine how eating disorder recovery is currently presented on Instagram, and what these posts reinforce. Using framing theory, social cognitive theory and a content analysis of 100 Instagram posts were analyzed from five hashtags to examine how the recovery process is highlighted online for the four main types of eating disorders (including binge-eating and OSFED,) instead of solely focusing on anorexia or bulimia. Findings indicated that recovery was presented in a positive manner, and that most images surrounding eating disorder recovery across all four types focused on food. Previous theorists have noted that there remains a gap in research concerning Instagram as a social media site, so this study not only adds to the Instagram discourse, but examines eating disorder recovery, as opposed to the pro-anorexia content studied in the past.
Seiba, Jose "Prevalence of the Male Athlete Triad in Division I SIUE Athletes"
- Female athletes that participate in competitive sports were first identified to develop a condition known as “Female Athlete Triad”. The female athlete triad is defined as having at least one of the following traits: low bone mineral density (BMD), low energy availability (EA), or amenorrhea. Recent data indicates that male athletes are also at risk of developing a similar condition characterized by low BMD, low EA, and reduced reproductive hormones. The goal of the overarching study is to identify the prevalence of the male athlete triad (MAT) in Division I SIUE athletes. EA will be assessed using a resting metabolic rate (RMR) test, activity monitor, and 3-day food record; and BMD will be quantified using a Dual Energy X Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. Reproductive hormones, including luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and free and total testosterone will be measured through the collection of blood samples. Data will be collected early and mid-season for each sport and used to determine the prevalence of the MAT within each sport and among male SIUE athletes.
Selvaraj, Bharath "Acute Effects of Resistance Training on Substrate Metabolism During Different Phases of the Menstrual Cycle"
- Background: Current exercise recommendations have been based on research performed mainly in men. Female sex hormone levels have been found to determine substrate utilization (i.e. fats or carbohydrates) at rest and during exercise. However, exercise effects were determined using different methodologies and analyzed in different days of the menstrual cycle, and research examining resistance training (RT) is lacking. Purpose: The objective of this study is to investigate substrate metabolism behavior in response to the RT during different phases of the menstrual cycle: early-follicular-phase (EFP), late-follicular-phase (LFP), early-luteal-phase (ELP) and late-luteal-phase (LLP). Hypothesis: Given the lack of research in RT and menstrual cycle expected results are uncertain. If we hypothesize based on general physiological effects of sex hormones (without exercise), we expect to see reduced carbohydrate utilization and increased utilization of fats in LFP. Given that our intervention is focused on improving muscular endurance a higher reliance on aerobic pathways is also expected. The effects of the intervention are expected to be added to those from estrogens, with increasing fat oxidation at LFP and ELP. Comparisons of fat oxidation patterns of each sub-phase may reveal differences in the magnitude of the effect of different estrogen and progesterone concentrations. Methods: 20 females will be randomized to start on one phase (days 4, 11, 18, and 25 of the menstrual cycle) and will undergo a circuit training aiming 550 calories. Blood will be drawn at baseline each day to analyze hormone levels. Substrate utilization will be assessed using a portable metabolic unit.
Shrestha, Prakriya "Ionization Efficiency for Environmentally Relevant Compounds Using Atmospheric Pressure Photoionization (APPI) in Comparison with Electrospray Ionization (ESI)"
- Despite the advent of modern ionization techniques, many papers continue to report the results of the detection of “ionizable” analytes while only using a single ionization method. This project aims to evaluate the efficacy of two different ionization sources, electrospray ionization and atmospheric pressure photoionization, each coupled with the same high performance liquid chromatography coupled mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) in order to evaluate the capacity for quantification of pharmaceutical compounds. Sample analysis will be performed with an Agilent Technologies 6460 Triple Quad UHP LC/MS-MS. This study aims at optimizing the mass spectrometry parameters for each ESI and APPI using different classes of pharmaceutical and then comparing the final methods figures of merit. Matrix effects interfere with the detection of low level pharmaceuticals in wastewater so artificial wastewater will be used to determine matrix effect. Wastewater was chosen because the extensive use of pharmaceutics for the treatment of diseases worldwide has led to increase in disposal of unused drugs and non-metabolized compounds into environment at low concentrations. Some of the most commonly detected pharmaceuticals include antibiotics and endocrine disruptor compounds (EDCs). EDCs have deleterious effects on non-target organisms including changes in their anatomy, physiology, and reproductive tendencies even at trace level. As low concentrations of antibiotics are released into the environment, they can lead to antibiotic resistance. Consequently, the detection of low concentrations of pharmaceuticals from environmental samples have drawn attention from analytical method development. The methods developed here will help to detect the low concentration of pharmaceuticals present in water by minimizing the matrix interference. This work will enable effective choices of ionization technique for mass spectrometry applications for quantifying antibiotics and EDCs at increasingly lower limits of detection.
Shrestha, Prasanna "Impacts of Land Use and Land Cover Changes on Hydrological Regimes of the Richland Creek Watershed, Souther Illinois Using a GIS-Based Hydrologic Model"
- With increase in population, urbanization has been replacing forest and agricultural lands in many parts of the United States. Urbanization can increase impervious surfaces and thus can impact the hydrological regimes in watersheds. The purpose of this project is to study how land use and land cover (LULC) changes impact the hydrological regime in the Richland Creek Watershed (RCW) located in Metro St. Louis area. The RCW has undergone land use changes from forest land to row-crop agriculture, which is now further being replaced by suburban land uses. The research uses a GIS-based distributed hydrological modelling, namely Hydrologic Engineering Center-GeoHydrologic Modelling System (HEC-GeoHMS). Physical parameters for the RCW are developed in HEC-GeoHMS and then they are used in HEC-HMS model for simulation of runoff hydrographs along with meteorological inputs (precipitation and temperature) and Soil Conservation Service (SCS) curve number (CN) grids. It is anticipated, at subbasin level in the RCW, the most developed with high impervious surface will generate high runoff compared to areas with no significant change in LULC. This research will contribute to the GIS-based hydrological modeling community and will enhance the understanding of the interactions between LULC changes and hydrological regimes.
Silwal, Ashok "Novel Somatostatin Receptor Subtype-4 Agonist Mitigates Microglia Inflammatory Activation"
- The selective and high affinity SSTR4 agonist SM-I-26 (Ki: 12nM, EC50: 17nM) was evaluated in BV2 microglia cells concurrent with inflammatory activation via lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment. After plating for 24hrs, cells were treated for 24hrs with SM-I-26 (0, 10, 1000nM) against LPS (0, 10, 100ng/mL). Nitrite (surrogate of nitric oxide, Griess assay) output in media and mRNA expression (RT-qPCR) from cells of key inflammatory species (Tnf-α, Il-6, Il-1β) were measured. Two-way ANOVAs with Tukey post-hoc tests were used to determine significance (α= 0.05). Nitrite results showed decreased trend in nitrite level within 10 ng/ml LPS with 10 and 1000 nM SM-I-26 while same concentration significantly decrease nitrite level within 100 ng/ml LPS (p<0.0001). At 0 and 10 ng/mL LPS, 1000 nM SM-I-26 significantly increased the mean ddct of Tnf-α compared to their vehicle controls (p<0.0001). Within 100 ng/ml LPS, SM-I-26 dose-dependently increased the mean ddct for Tnf-α (10 nM: p= 0.0067, 1000nM: p<0.0001, Tukey) compared to vehicle. These results indicate that 1000 nM SM-I-26 significantly decreased Tnf-α mRNA expression under basal and inflammatory conditions. For Il-1β, the mean ddcts were similar across all concentrations of SM-I-26 with no LPS. At 100 ng/ml LPS, 10 nM and 1000 nM SM-I-26 significantly increased the mean ddcts for Il-β (p<0.0001, and p=0.0040, respectively), indicating these concentrations of SM-I-26 decreased Il-1β mRNA expression with inflammation. For Il-6, LPS (p<0.0001) and SM-I-26 (p<0.0001), but not their interaction (p=0.1106) significantly impacted the mean ddct. SM-I-26 at 10 and 1000 nM significantly increased the mean ddct of Il-6 compared to no SM-I-26 (p<0.0001 and p=0.0009, respectively), indicating that SM-I-26 decreased Il-6 mRNA expression.These results support the use of SSTR4 agonists for the mitigation of microglial activation, which could help in the treatment of AD progression.
Stanton, Kaitlyn "Zinc Activating Mouth Rinse Reduces Inflammatory Cytokine Expression in a Gingival Epithelium Injury Model"
- Periodontitis, a polymicrobial infection and oral disease, causes oral malodor due to the periodontopathogenic bacteria producing volatile sulfur compounds including hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan. Methyl mercaptan induces secretion of interleukin 1β (IL-1β), an inflammatory cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. Periodontal pathogens such as Porphroymonas gingivalis trigger secretion of interleukin 8 (IL-8), a chemokine for phagocytic neutrophils. Toll-like receptors (TLR) are involved in the recognition of bacteria such as P. gingivalis. Periodontal patients must be compliant with home care instructions after scaling and root planning treatment. Chlorhexidine mouth rinse is the leading home treatment plan for periodontal patients, however patient compliance is often reduced due to side effects such as teeth staining, unpleasant taste, and changes in taste perception. In this study we used a mouth rinse containing zinc, an important mineral for wound healing, and a possible alternative for chlorhexidine. A recent clinical study showed that patient compliance increased when using this activated zinc mouth rinse compared to chlorhexidine. We have subjected primary gingival keratinocytes (PGK) to different zinc-activating mouth rinse dilutions, and then injured them through a scratch assay. Cell media was collected and levels of IL-1β and IL-8 were determined by ELISA. The PGK cells were fixed and immunofluorescence was performed to visualize TLR-2 and TLR-4. The activated zinc mouth rinse did not slow wound healing compared to media alone. Both IL-8 and IL-1β levels were lower from wounded cells treated with the activated zinc mouth rinse compared to media alone. We hope that these studies will contribute to a better understanding of oral healing after injury, while providing in vitro research for clinicians to make an evidence-based decision on which at home mouth rinse to provide to their patients.
Stevenson, David "Sibling Rivalry: Analyzing Differences in Parenting Styles Between Number of Children"
- The present study is based on Adlerian theory and analyzes the relationship between four categories of number of children in a household (one, two, three, and four or more) and parenting styles reported by college students, which was measured by the Ferguson Parental Values Inventory (PVi) (Ferguson, Hagaman, Grice, & Peng, 2006). The parenting styles measured were Autocratic, Democratic, Laissez Faire, and Competitive. Statistically significant differences were identified with self-report responses from daughters in two-child families. Specifically, two-child families reported significantly higher levels of Autocratic, Democratic, and Competitive parenting from their fathers. Furthermore, daughters of two-child families reported significantly higher levels of Competitiveness than three-child families and families with four or more children. Theories surrounding these noteworthy differences in parenting in two-child families are discussed.
Souce, Mike & Wells, Mae "A Socail Work Participatory Evaluation: Enhancement of Nonprofit Assessment Tools"
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This poster highlights a participatory evaluation partnership between graduate social work students and a local environmental sustainability nonprofit. Over the course of the semester, students applied class concepts and assisted the agency in evaluating and redesigning their pre-post- impact assessment tools. Benefits and challenges of this partnership will be highlighted.
Vahle, Courtney "Prime Decomposition: Creating a Learning Progression and Understanding the Impacts of Flagway"
- A learning progression uses research to lay out a likely path to mastery of a specific subject. These learning progressions can be used in a variety of ways, to help teachers and students alike. Learning progressions can aid teachers in planning for instruction and inform teachers of areas that a student may be struggling. This allows teachers to create entry points for students, meeting them where they are with an appropriate intervention. In my research, I created a provisional learning progression for the concept of prime decomposition. I used my position as a Math Literacy Worker for the Young People’s Project to gain insight into the complex way that students consider prime and composite numbers, division, and decomposition. Through a game called Flagway, I was able to watch students’ understanding in these areas grow and, ultimately, track their progress toward proficiency through the learning progression.
Waller, Christopher "Getting Ahead of Postconcussion Syndrome: An Examination of Premorbid Factors"
- The World Health Organization has stated that by 2020 traumatic brain injury (TBI) will have surpassed many diseases as a major cause of death or disability (Hyder et al., 2007). While many patients with TBI make a quick recovery, a small minority tend to have persistent symptoms lasting a year or longer (Vanderploeg, Belanger, & Curtiss, 2009; McCauley et al., 2013). This presentation is commonly referred to as Postconcussion Syndrome (PCS; World Health Organization, 2014), and is not as well understood. Previous investigations suggest that brain damage may interrupt normal sleep-wake function; post-morbid sleep problems have been reported in between 46% (Castriotta et al., 2007) and 84% (Mathias & Alvaro, 2012) of patients following a TBI; a factor that may predict PCS symptomatology (Sullivan et al., 2016). Additionally, psychiatric disorders may serve as risk factors for PCS (Evered et al., 2003; McCauley et al., 2013). Similarly, specific personality trait profiles may be predictive of greater severity of postconcussion symptom profiles (Yuen et al., 2016), supporting the theoretical framework of mental illness as a dimensional construct. The present investigation examines these factors through a survey of TBI survivors in the community. It is hypothesized that: (a) post-morbid sleep-wake dysfunction will positively correlate with decreased TBI recovery, (b) Pre-injury mental illness will moderate the relationship between sleep-wake dysfunction and TBI recovery, and (c) personality traits will moderate the relationship between sleep-wake dysfunction and TBI recovery.
West, Nathan "Associations Between Obesity, Chronic Disease, Physical Activity, and Sedentary Behavior among Christian Seminarians"
- There is a high prevalence of obesity and chronic disease among Christian clergy, which may be partially attributable to insufficient physical activity (PA). The purpose of this study was to examine associations between obesity, chronic disease, and physical activity (PA) among Christian seminarians who intend to go into full-time ministry (i. e. , clergy-in-training). A convenience sample of seminarians (N = 105) from Christian seminaries in the United States completed self-report questionnaires regarding their demographics and personal health. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form was used to collect data on PA behavior. Basic frequencies and descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables. Binary logistic regression models were used to examine associations between health outcomes and PA behavior. Participants were on average 37. 9 years old (SD = 11. 9), and most were male (63%) and white non-Hispanic (86%). Many participants were obese (37%) and over half perceived their health as very good/excellent (54%). Commonly reported chronic diseases were high blood pressure (33. 5%), high cholesterol (29%), type-2 diabetes (10. 4%), depression (14. 9%), and anxiety (12. 7%). Fifty-eight percent of participants reported meeting the current PA guidelines for adults (≥ 500 MET min/week). After adjusting for age and gender, meeting the PA recommendations was not associated with the likelihood of being obese (OR = 1. 34; 95% CI [0. 56, 3. 18]). Meeting the PA recommendations was associated with an increased likelihood of perceiving health as very good/excellent (OR = 2. 68; 95% [1. 16, 6. 19]) and a decreased likelihood of reporting a diagnosis of depression (OR = 0. 29; 95% CI [0. 09, 0. 94]) or anxiety (OR = 0. 21; 95% CI [0. 07, 0. 65]). Much like their clergy counterparts, Christian seminarians in this study had a high prevalence of obesity and chronic disease, especially depression and anxiety. Physical activity was an important influence on the perceived health and mental health of participants in this study. Further research is needed to elucidate temporal associations between health and PA behavior among seminarians. Researchers should identify other factors associated with the health of seminarians, especially in regards to their mental health, which could inform the development of individual- and institution-level interventions to improve their health.
Wilson, Will "The Effect of Orientation on Convective Heat Transfer and Close-contact Melting in a Honeycomb-encapsulated Phase-change Material for Latent Thermal Energy Storage"
- Heat transfer is critical to human comfort and industrial processes. While cost and pollution saving energy alternatives are under development, many renewable sources are intermittent. For instance, solar thermal collectors provide energy only during daylight hours. This necessitates the development of storage technologies to extend the use of collected thermal energy. One method leverages the phenomenon that substances absorb heat as they melt and release heat as they solidify. Storing heat in this way is called latent thermal energy storage (LTES) and substances used for this application are termed phase change materials (PCMs). This study intends to overcome PCMs low thermal conductivity, whereby heat flows through them too slowly for most practical use, by encapsulating a PCM in an aluminum honeycomb to increase bulk thermal transfer rates. Moreover, energy transfer is generally accelerated during convective heat transfer, wherein energy transfer is facilitated by a moving fluid. While vertically-oriented honeycomb cells may experience greater convective transfer, this minimizes close-contact melting, which occurs when a larger area of solid PCM is in contact with the heat source. Inversely, a horizontally oriented cell may experience greater close-contact melting, but lower convective heat transfer. This study aims to find the optimal cell orientation to maximize these seemingly contradictory effects. An experimental apparatus will be used at horizontal, vertical and forty-five degree orientations to study melting and solidification behavior. This data will be used to validate an ANSYS computational model, which will allow the study of arbitrary orientations to further minimize melting and solidification times.
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