April 28, 2007
Student Abstracts
Abstracts are in order of last name of presenter.
Oral Presentations: Engineering Building, UW Campus
1:00
– 5:30 PM
Poster Presentations: Family Room, Wyoming Student Union
4:30 – 6:30 PM
Abstracts are in order of last name of presenter.
Poster Presentations: Family Room, Wyoming Student Union
4:30 – 6:30 PM
Students presenting at Wyoming Research Day
represent
the very best and brightest of UW
and the Community Colleges. Without the
support and encouragement of dedicated UW and
Community College faculty these
exceptional students would not have the opportunity
to do independent research
in such a wide array of exciting areas…thank you
Enzymatic
Activity
of Uteroglobin in Non-aqueous Solvents
Loren Ackels with Dr. Jan Kubelka
Department of Chemistry
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR Cheyenne, WY
Abstract: Enzymes are potent
catalysis of
biochemical reactions and are naturally suited to catalyze reactions in
aqueous
solutions. However, it has been
demonstrated that enzymes can retain much of their catalytic activity
in
organic solvents. This opens new possibilities for using enzymes as
catalysts
for refinement of petroleum, since water is incompatible with the
petroleum
refinement process. One protein in particular is uteroglobin,
which is
seventy amino acids long. Uteroglobin is hypothesized to be able to
bind to
dibenzothiophene and act as a catalyst to create the oxidized form of
dibenzothiophene called dibenzothiophene sulfone. Since
dibenzothiophene is one
of the major sulfur-containing contaminant of petroleum, this can be
extremely
useful in the petroleum industry as a biocatalyst and create a cleaner
path
than by using traditional technologies to desulfur petroleum products
such as
crude oil, diesel, and gasoline.
Subjects:
Uteroglobin; Nonaqueous
solvents; Petroleum—Desulphurization
Megan Ahrens with Dr. Sonya Meyer
Family and Consumer Sciences
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
UW Honors Program Lincoln, NE
Abstract: Research to be addressed is the issue of clothing and how it relates to the social construction of gender. Data from past clothing styles will be compared to present-day clothing to discover similarities and differences in gender roles.
What it means to be male or female tends to be differentiated in an oversimplified manner because only two gender categories exist. Therefore, a sharp distinction emerges between feminine styles of clothing and masculine styles of clothing. These differences shape males and females into their societal roles; women are pressured into passive femininity while men are given active masculine power.
In the past, women’s passiveness was obvious through their clothing styles while in present-day, it is less pronounced but still prevalent. This paper will attempt to prove that the social construction of gender has existed in clothing of the past and still exists in present-day fashion.
Subjects: Clothing and dress—Social aspects; Clothing and dress—Psychological aspects; Sex role—Social aspects
John Allhusen with Dr. Franco Basile
Chemistry
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR Casper, WY
Abstract:
Research to be addressed is the efficiency of detecting trichloroethene
using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
Trichloroethene (TCE) is a carcinogenic water pollutant that is toxic in small amounts. The Environmental Engineering department at the University of Wyoming is trying to find a means of binding this compound to other non-hazardous chemicals. They conducted some tests and sent their products to Franco Basile’s Lab to be analyzed. We created a calibration curve of standard concentrations to quantify the concentrations of the unknowns. An Internal standard of TCE C13 was used to create more accurate results. This presentation will describe the processes that were required to analyze the samples.
Subjects: Trichloroethylene—Analysis;
Water—Pollution—Measurement
Using a Mutagenesis Screen to Complement an RNAi-based Screen for
fshr-1
Synthetic
Mutants in C.
elegans
Carly-Ann M. Anderson with Dr. David Fay
Molecular Biology
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR Cheyenne, WY
Abstract: Hormones play an essential role in human biology by controlling growth, development, and reproduction. The receptors for the two human gonadotropins, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), as well as thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) have a single ortholog called FSHR-1 in the nematode C. elegans. Alone, fshr-1 is a non-essential gene, but it is involved in many cellular processes in C. elegans and acts cooperatively with other genes.
To study these genes, a genome-wide RNAi screen was performed in an fshr-1 background and genetic interactions were identified. 114 genes were found to interact synthetically with fshr-1 that resulted in a variety of phenotypes. To complement this screen, two chemical mutagenesis screens were performed. This forward genetics approach yielded nine promising mutants, six of which are currently being characterized and mapped.
Subjects: Glycoprotein hormones—Receptors ; Genetics, Experimental ; Caenorhabditis elegans—Genetics
EPSCoR
Science Teacher
Education Program (STEP):
Invaluable Research Experience
Emily Averill with Liz Flaherty (Zoology and Physiology) and Drs. Anne Sylvester, Joseph Stepans, and James McClurg (EPSCoR/STEP)
Secondary Education
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR/STEP
Laramie, WY
Abstract:
In the Summer of 2006, I
participated in the brand new Science Teacher Education Program
(STEP). This
program gives pre-service science teachers the opportunity to
experience
authentic research. I got to spend a summer finding out what
scientists
actually do.
I was paired with PhD
Candidate Elizabeth Flaherty in the Zoology & Physiology
Department. Her
research involves examining the diet and dispersal capabilities of the
Northern
Flying Squirrel. She looks to find out whether or not the
squirrels have the
physical capability and food source to transverse a clear cut patch of
forest
to get to a new patch of old growth, therefore maintaining genetic
variance. I
assisted her in one way by weighing food samples for stable isotope
analysis. I
also helped in carrying out a procedure to test the ability of flying
squirrels
to run for long periods of time (in nature their main method of
locomotion is
gliding).
It was a truly enriching experience. Teaching children has always been my number one priority, but I often thought of what it would be like to work in the field as a scientist. The STEP program gave me this invaluable real-world experience that I can take with me into my classroom someday.
Subjects: Science teachers—Training of—Wyoming ; Science—Study and teaching
Sara Bender with Dr. Tami Benham-Deal
Kinesiology and Health
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
UW Honors Program Bottineau, ND
Abstract: This paper
looks into
the common types of eating disorders and disordered eating. It
looks at the
criteria for being diagnosis, as well as a brief description of general
treatment.
Then the paper looks
at the major macronutrients of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and
water. A
discussion of each includes a brief description of the physical
structure, what
the body uses each for, and how the body uses the nutrients. In
the water
section, dehydration is mentioned and discussed later.
The paper now delves
into wrestling. Both in-season and off-season activities are
listed. After
the general activities of wrestling are describe the issue of weight
and weight
cutting is discussed. Wrestlers are assigned to a weight class
and must meet
that weight for every competition. Many wrestlers try to wrestle
at a lower
weight than is healthy, so they cut weight. Weight cutting is one
of the main
health care concerns for wrestlers. The NCAA has rules to help
limit these
actions. Wrestlers put their bodies at risk when they partake in weight
cutting, at its worst it leads to death.
This paper is designed to be an educational piece about the harms of weight cutting by wrestlers.
Subjects: Wrestling—Health
aspects ; Eating disorders in men.
Process
Design of a Grass-Roots Ethanol Production
Facility
Group AM2 – Melissa Binder, Melissa Gangl, Ashley Madrid with Dr. H. Gordon Harris
Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
Chemical & Petroleum Engineering Laramie, WY
Abstract: Ethanol is a very important energy source for the United States today. As petroleum prices increase with the dependence of foreign oil, an alternative energy source is needed. The use of fossil fuels is also causing air pollution to increase at alarming levels. Ethanol is an alternative energy source that will begin lessening the impact of fossil fuels on the environment and economy of the United States. This project includes raw material and location breakdown, process model, energy balance, economic analysis, and safety and permitting of a grass-roots ethanol production facility in southeastern Wyoming utilizing corn as the source material. In addition, an investigation of specifications required to upgrade the facility to utilize biomass as the source material will be conducted.
Subjects: Biomass energy—Economic aspects—Wyoming ; Alcohol fuel industry—Economic aspects—Wyoming ; Chemical plants—Design and construction
Computer Science
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
Computer Science Senior Design Laramie, WY
Abstract: The project is described as using Bayesian networks to produce probabilities for outcomes of soccer matches. Conditional independence assumptions, inference methods, and network architecture will be explained. Parser methods for user input will be discussed. The algorithms to compute probabilities do not scale when no previous information is provided. A recommendation for more time to experiment with conditional probability table functions.
Subjects: Bayesian statistical decision theory—Data processing ; Decision making—Statistical methods
Kinesiology and Health Promotion
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR Laramie, WY
Abstract: The leading cause of death for men and women in the United States is cardiovascular disease (CVD) which is largely predominated by physical inactivity and obesity, two factors that have been shown to cause endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial dysfunction contributes largely to CVD in that it prevents effective circulatory response mechanisms to cardiovascular stressors. Therefore, endothelium-mediated forearm blood flow is increasingly recognized as an important diagnostic measure of cardiovascular health.
We attempted to determine whether participation in an Active Living Everyday (ALE) web-based physical activity program for 16 weeks increased endothelium-mediated forearm blood flow in rural overweight/obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) adults between the ages 21-65. Contrary to what we predicted, we found that reactive forearm blood flow increased similarly among the two experimental groups during the 16-week experimental program, leading us to evaluate the intensity of physical activity promoted by the ALE website intervention.
The goal of the ALE intervention program was to increase the volume of physical activity (frequency and duration) rather than the intensity. The results of our present study lead us to suggest that the intensity of exercise achieved by those subjects participating in the ALE intervention program was not enough to elicit significant changes in endothelium-mediated forearm blood flow.
Subjects: Obesity—Treatment—Evaluation ; Reducing exercises—Evaluation ; Cardiovascular diseases—Prevention
Paige Brog, Matt Cheshire, Kelly Lear, and Nori Nozumi with Bud Chew, Ph.D.
Biology Department
Western WY Community College
Oral Presentation
Supported by INBRE Community College Hometowns: Afton, WY
and EPSCoR Thayne, WY
Rock Springs , WY
Tokyo, Japan
Abstract: The baroreflex is altered by iron deficiency (ID), and both sympathetic and parasympathetic efferents are affected. Previously, we used the “ramp” technique, with a continuous infusion altering blood pressure (BP), and afferent signals from arterial and non-arterial baroreceptors. This study distinguished between two types of afferent baroreceptor signals, and determined which are affected by ID. To do this, we employed the “steady-state” baroreflex protocol, in which BP is altered, held steady for 90 s, and HR measured during the final 30 s. CD rats (Harlan) were put on an ID or control (C) diet for 4 weeks; ID was confirmed by microhematocrit (p<0.05). One femoral artery and both femoral veins were catheterized; rats recovered for 1 d. Methoxamine hydrochloride and nitroprusside were infused intravenously in bolus volumes to alter BP across a broad range; BP was held steady for 90 s by small subsequent infusions. Further experiments are continuing at time of abstract writing. However, a preliminary data analysis (n=9) has been completed, and indicates that, in sharp contrast to our “ramp” technique experiments, the steady-state baroreflex is not altered by ID. If confirmed by further experimental repetitions, we conclude that ID alters primarily non-arterial afferent components of the baroreflex.
Subjects: Baroreflexes ; Blood pressure—Physiology ; Iron—Physiological effect
The Effect of Knee
Extensor Strength Asymmetry on
Landing Kinematics: Implications for ACL Injury
Lindsey Caba with Dr. Zachary Domire
Biomechanics
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR Hastings, NE
Abstract: It has been proven that the hamstrings act to protect the ACL by exerting a posterior force on the tibia. However, the ability of the hamstrings to protect the ACL is greatly reduced when landing with little knee flexion. It was hypothesized that quadriceps strength would be an important determinant in knee angle at landing and that subjects who have a strength deficit in one leg would land with a more extended knee and therefore, be at higher risk for ACL injury. Fifty males and fifty females, who had stated being free from any lower extremity orthopedic injury, were recruited to participate in the study. Subjects performed bilateral knee strength tests using a Biodex isokinetic dynamometer. Subjects also performed drop landings at a calculated maximum vertical height, forty and sixty centimeters onto two force plates. Unfortunately, due to a marker placement error, data from only 10 subjects was able to be analyzed. From the subject pool all of the male subjects’ stronger lower extremity presented with a greater knee angle upon landing, especially when under a great amount of stress. This data was not proven in the female subjects.
Subjects: Anterior cruciate ligament—Wounds and injuries—Susceptibility ; Knee—Muscles ; Muscle strength ; Impact—Physiological effect
Phylogenetic Relationships of Eimeria (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) Parasites
from Wild Rodents Based
on Plastid ORF 470 Sequences
Jason Casebolt, Danielle Hofmann, Cheryl Mandich, Clint Oliver with
Dr. Dagmara Motriuk-Smith and Dr. R. Scott Seville
Department of Zoology and Physiology and University of Wyoming/Casper College Center
University of Wyoming
Poster Presentation
INBRE-UW/CC and EPSCoR Casper, WY
Abstract: Historically, taxonomy and systematics of Eimeria parasites has largely been based on a limited number of morphologic characteristics of the sporulated exogenous stage or oocyst. DNA based analyses are becoming a useful tool in investigations of eimerian relationships and for identifying synapomorphies for constructing phylogenetic hypotheses. Six Eimeria species from wild rodent hosts were selected for this study. Partial plastid Open Reading Frame (ORF) 470 sequences were PCR-amplified, sequenced and analyzed. A preliminary analysis of the produced sequence data divides the Eimeria into two lineages based on oocyst morphology, not host specificity. One clade consists of four oocyst residuum (OR) lacking species: E. vilasi, and E. morainensis from the Wyoming ground squirrel (Spermophilus elegans); E. lancasterensis from the Eastern fox squirrel (Sciurus niger); and E. type1 from the tundra vole (Microtus oeconomus). The second lineage consists of two species: E. lateralis (OR present only during sporulation) from the Wyoming ground squirrel and E. callospermophili (OR present post sporulation) from the yellow-bellied marmot (Marmota flaviventris). The addition of other rodent eimerian ORF 470 sequences from GenBank to the analysis produced a similar phylogeny representing the two OR absent/ OR present clades. Interestingly, an altered genetic code for tryptophan was identified when the partial ORF 470 DNA sequences were translated.
Subjects: Eimeria—Genetics ; Eimeria—Phylogeny—Research
Plastid Function
and Codon Usage in Apicomplexan
Parasites
Department of Zoology and Physiology and University of Wyoming/Casper College Center
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR and INBRE-UW/CC Casper, WY
Abstract: The eukaryotic phylum Apicomplexa is comprised of parasites which include a wide range of organisms such as Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, Eimeria and Isospora. These organisms possess a secondarily acquired multi-membraned plastid which has its own 35 kb genome (plDNA) and is believed to be of red algal origin. While the complete function of this plastid is not fully understood, it is essential for parasite transmission and does play a role in multiple biochemical pathways. One of the 60 genes encoded in the plDNA is open reading frame 470 (ORF470). This gene has been linked to an orthologue in red algae (ycf24) and more recently to one in bacteria (sufB). An altered genetic code has been identified in some Apicomplexans, where the codon UGA appears to encode a tryptophan residue instead of a stop codon. Multiple ORF470 DNA sequences from Eimeria parasites were translated into amino acid sequences and analyzed for this altered codon usage. E. morainensis, E. lancasterensis, E. vilasi, and E. type1 all had at least one in frame UGA that presumably codes for tryptophan.
Subjects: Apicomplexa—Phylogeny ;
Plastids ; Cell organelles—Formation
Potamopyrgus antipodarum, on native macroinvertebrates
and
their food
sources
Caroline Charles with Dr. Amy Krist
Zoology and Physiology
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR Durango, CO
Abstract: The earth hosts more biodiversity now than it has in the past. Although there is a large amount of biodiversity, it is declining at an extremely rapid rate. One large affect on the decline of biodiversity is the invasion of non-native species that are moving in and competing with many of the native organisms for food and/or habitat. In many cases, invasive species are out-competing native species and causing extirpation of the native species.
We are studying the New Zealand mud snail, Potamopyrgus antipodarum, an invasive species in the Western U.S. These invasive snails may have considerable impacts on native species. This snail has been shown to compete with some of the native species for periphyton, their shared food source.
To understand the extent of diet overlap between the New Zealand mud snail and several native invertebrates, I have been comparing periphyton samples that were grazed by different invertebrates. To do this I made a type of slide that allows me to identify and quantify diatoms, and another slide type for algae identification and quantification. After collecting the data for periphyton assemblages, I will be able to compare the amount of diatoms and other algae that were consumed by the different species, and therefore the potential impacts the invasive species may have on natives.
Subjects: Freshwater invertebrates—West (U.S.) ; New Zealand mudsnail ; Competition (Biology)—Research
Chris Christensen with Aleksey Kletsov (Physics) and Drs. Anne Sylvester, Joseph Stepans and James McClurg (EPSCoR/STEP)
Secondary Education and Physics
University of Wyoming
Oral
Presentation
EPSCoR/STEP Laramie, WY
Abstract: Research to be addressed is the issue of nanotechnology. At issue is electron transfer through a single molecule nanoscale device. The research is based in theoretical physics. Mathematical models are made to predict actual results of experiments that might be done in the future. At the present time transistors have reached the limit of how small they can be made, so research is now being done to make transistors on a nanoscale.
If research in nanotechnology continues things once thought to be science fiction may soon become reality. If a breakthrough can be made in the size of field effect transistors that are in computers, computers can be some 100,000 times faster than they are now; opening up limitless opportunities in technology. Some of the advances may include measurements with one atom precision, sensors to detect dangerous substances, membranes for separation with high precision, and nano-robots that can go inside people’s bodies and clean and fix them.
Nanotechnology is a new field that has only been heavily studied for the last thirty years. The field combines aspects of quantum mechanics, solid-state physics, chemistry, engineering, linear algebra and calculus.
Subjects: Nanoelectronics ; Science teachers—Training of—Wyoming
Jenelle Clark with Professor Mark Ritchie
Department of Art
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
UW Honors Program Cheyenne, WY
Abstract: The American Environmental Movement of the 1960s and 70s was a time of increased public interest in the well being of the natural environment. As public environmental awareness grew, a group of similarly concerned artists began creating large-scale sculptures in the American West that utilized the natural environment in ways previous unseen in art.
The Land and Environmental Art Movement grew out of these early explorations into land-based sculpture and even coined the phrase earthwork, which is used to indicate a type of sculpture that incorporates site and landscape as fully integrated elements in the art. In the 1970’s, three leading artists—Robert Smithson, Nancy Holt, and Water de Maria—each created large-scale earthworks significant to the Land and Environmental Art Movement. These pieces; Spiral Jetty, Sun Tunnels, and The Lightning Field, respectively; are unique in that they help the viewer to experience the western landscape in a more complete and personal way. The location of these works in remote desert regions also invites the viewer to appreciate a landscape traditionally seen as harsh and inhospitable. The viewer is challenged to open up to the experience of that landscape and in turn develop a better connection to the natural environment.
Subjects: Earthworks (Art)—West (U.S.)
Comparison
using subjective and objective measures of
activity
Karen Elizabeth Cody with Dr. Brandon Alderman
Division of Kinesiology and Health
University of Wyoming
Oral
Presentation
EPSCoR Laramie, WY
Abstract: Early positive physical activity experiences and behaviors developed during childhood are believed to influence future physical activity participation. One area that has received increasing research attention is the role of the family in shaping and influencing children’s decisions to become, and remain, physically active. Parents may influence their children’s physical activity through modeling of the behavior or through their influence on children’s perceptions and values regarding physical activity participation. Mixed results have been reported regarding the nature of the relationship between parents’ and children’s activity; however, relatively few studies in this area have employed objective measures to assess physical activity. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between parent’s and children’s physical activity levels through questionnaire and objective measures of activity. Parents and children who have previously participated in analogous research were asked to record their daily activities while wearing a Polar heart rate monitor and a pedometer to measure step counts for four consecutive days. Data were also collected relative to the value and importance parents have towards their children’s physical activity. Data are currently being analyzed and these findings will potentially have implications for future research and theoretical design.
Subjects: Exercise for children ; Exercise—Psychological aspects ; Parent and child
Energy
Intake is Influenced by an Internet-based
Physical Activity Behavior Change Program
Alison Coffey with Dr. Derek Smith
Kinesiology
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR Colorado Springs, CO
Abstract: To determine whether macronutrient, micronutrient, and kilocalorie intake are influenced by a 16-week internet-based physical activity behavior change program. METHODS: 18 young and middle-aged (44.7+2.5 years) sedentary (<90 minutes of PA/week) and overweight/obese (BMI = 31.3+0.9 kg/m2) adults were randomized to either the delayed intent-to-treat control condition (N=8) or the 16-week IPAP (N=10). At baseline and after 16-weeks, PA (steps/day), body composition (BMI, waist circumference, % body fat), aerobic fitness, and self-report 3-day food diaries were measured. RESULTS: At baseline, control and IPAP groups were similar in BMI (30.1+0.9 vs. 32.7+1.6 kg/m2), % BF (43.3+1.7 vs. 42.0+3.7 %), aerobic fitness (29.1+1.5 vs. 33.6+1.4 mL/kg/min), and PA ( 7780+779 vs. 8003+697 steps/day). PA increased in the IPAP group (8003+697 vs 9720+523 steps/day; P<0.05) but not in the control group (7780+779 vs. 8000+523 steps/day). In the IPAP group, total grams of protein decreased (87+5 to 65+5 g; P<0.05) and percentage of total kilocalories from protein increased (16+1 to 21+1%; P<0.05). For fat and carbohydrate in the IPAP group, total grams consumed decreased (P<0.05) but their percentage of total kilocalories remained constant. CONCLUSIONS: A 16-week internet-based physical activity behavior change program that did not attempt to modify dietary/eating habits positively changed macronutrient consumption.
Subjects: Weight loss—Computer network
resources ;
Exercise—Health aspects
Prototype
Elementary School for the State of Wyoming
Shawn Cooney, Lorehana Gandiaga, Laura Garcia, Michael Gibbs, George Laughlin, Ryan Shields, and Ashley Spear with Dr. Anthony Denzer.
Civil and Architectural Engineering
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentations
Civil and Architectural Engineering Ogallala, NE; Green River, WY;
Arvada, CO; Rangely, CO; Powell, WY;
Torrington, WY; Cheyenne, WY.
Abstract: The State of Wyoming is currently undergoing a revolution in the way schools are designed and built. In the past, individual school districts were in charge of financing and building their own schools. There was a lot of local control and a lot of variety in school designs. A recent Supreme Court ruling decided that the State — not local districts — should finance and manage new school construction. Therefore, the State is suddenly in the business of school design, and they are concerned with managing escalating construction costs. They are also trying to treat different districts equitably while fulfilling their needs. As a result, they have adopted a policy to develop a few prototype designs that will be used across the state.
The students were charged to accept this challenge and produce a comprehensive building design for the proposed prototype elementary school following the School Facility Commission’s guidelines.
Subjects:
Elementary school buildings—Wyoming—Designs and plans
Synthetic
Spider Silk: an Emerging Biomaterial
Alyssa R. Cooper with Dr. Randy Lewis
Electrical Engineering and Molecular Biology
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR Riverton, WY
Abstract: Of the seven silks produced by the orb-weaver Nephila clavipes, two silks are well known for their extreme toughness: major ampullate silk for its high tensile strength and flagelliform silk for its incredible elasticity. Previously conducted research is thought to have identified the amino acids responsible for these properties in natural spider silk. This study focuses on the genetic engineering of Escherichia coli bacteria to produce proteins that are variations of the strength and elasticity amino acid motifs found in natural spider silks. These proteins have been purified and confirmed for amino acid composition. Then, the secondary structure was investigated using circular dichroism and finally the proteins were spun into fibers and tested for mechanical properties.
Subjects: Spider
webs—Composition ; Orb weavers ; Proteins—Biotechnology
Improved
Oil Recovery: A Case Study for a Powder River Basin Field
Group Brown – Sara Costopoulos, Kaspars Krutkramelis, Dwight Neptune, Tiffany Sorensen, Ryan Winner with Dr. H. Gordon Harris
Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
University of Wyoming
Oral
Presentation
Chemical & Petroleum Engineering Laramie, WY
Abstract: This project evaluates use of Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) and Natural Gas Combined Cycle (NGCC) plants for generation of electricity and as a source of CO2 for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). The House Creek field in the Powder River Basin is being examined as a candidate for EOR and CO2 sequestration.
Subjects: Enhanced oil recovery—Powder River Basin (Wyo. And Mont.) ; Combined cycle power plants
Chemical and Petroleum Engineering Riverton, WY
Abstract: This discusses the difficulties of modeling the Rectisol process for sulfur removal from coal synthesis gas in Aspen Plus. In addition, a feasibility analysis for the Research Triangle Institute’s (RTI) direct sulfur removal process, which uses a zinc titanate sorbent, is provided. The synthesis gas (syngas) is treated using the Selexol process and then the sorbent is used. For both approaches, a basis of at least 99% removal of the sulfur was set.
Subjects: Coal
liquefaction ; Petroleum, Synthetic—Desulphurization
Process
Design of an Anhydrous Ammonia Production Facility
Blue Group – Jared Crawford, Britni Ellifritz, Benjamin Root with Dr. H. Gordon Harris
Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
Chemical & Petroleum Engineering Laramie, WY
Abstract: This project involves the grass-roots design of a 1500 ton/day anhydrous ammonia production facility for Dyno Nobel in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The presentation will explore the process design of the production facility; production facility energy requirements; environmental aspects of construction and operation of the facility; economics detailing costs for the facility; and a comparison of the price of production vs. the price of purchase per ton of anhydrous ammonia.
Subjects:
Ammonia ; Chemical plants—Wyoming—Cheyenne—Design and construction
Sarah Czerwinski with Dr. Robert Kitchin
Chemistry
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
UW Honors Program Cheyenne, WY
Abstract: The HIV-1 virus has infected and killed millions worldwide, and while there is no known cure for the virus, some individuals seem resistant to contracting it. Other individuals, long-term non-progressors and long-term survivors, are able to prolong the progression to AIDS. The genetic resistance that these individuals have to the HIV-1 virus is thought to be caused by genetic polymorphisms and the immune responses of exposed individuals.
Genetic polymorphisms that cause a resistance to the HIV-1 virus are thought to have been the result of selective pressure caused by an infectious disease such as smallpox, bubonic plague, or haemorrhagic plague. Prostitutes in Nairobi, Kenya, hemophiliacs receiving blood transfusions with HIV-1 infected blood, and HIV-1 negative partners of HIV-1 positive individuals are all examples of groups of people who continue to test negative for HIV-1 antibodies despite repeated exposure to the virus.
By understanding the workings of the virus and the reasons that certain individuals are able to resist or prolong the HIV-1 infection, researchers will be able to develop successful medication to inhibit the virus as well as eventually produce an effective vaccine to prevent this deadly virus.
Subjects: HIV (Viruses) ; Natural immunity
Design
of a Modern
Grass-Roots Brewery
The Brew Crew – Bryce Dorr, Colter Rieke, Tommy Servantez Mike Thompson
with Dr. H. Gordon Harris
Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
Chemical & Petroleum Engineering Laramie, WY
Abstract: This presentation includes the implementation of modern technologies into the brewing process, the multi-product plant design and economic analysis, and specific marketing techniques for the brewing industry.
Subjects: Breweries—Design and construction ; Brewing—Economic aspects
Dan Eakin
Geology/ Geophysics
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR Laramie, WY
Abstract: Marine seismic reflection profiling uses reflections from a sound source and receivers towed behind a ship to image beneath the solid ocean floor. The method has been used for decades and is commonly used to help identify oil and gas reservoirs. Recently, it has been found that this technique can also produce images of the temperature and salinity structure within the ocean. Understanding the properties and mechanisms that create this structure may give important insight into larger scale oceanographic processes.
Over the past semester I have learnt seismic processing and applied that knowledge to a seismic line from a marine seismic reflection survey off the coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. There were several problems with these data that prevented me from correctly processing the data. This presentation will attempt to address these problems in more detail and also provide explanation and description of the actions taken to correct them. I will show the result of the reprocessing and identify three ocean fronts in the final image that vary in appearance, depth and angle depending on their position and the water masses either side of the front.
Subjects: Water masses—Antarctica—Measurement ; Seismic reflection method
ME 4070 Laramie, WY
Abstract: The kiln burner carriage at the Mountain Cement Company (MCC) in Laramie WY is a machine that is suspended from an overhead track, and is used to support and aim a coal burner pipe. The coal burner pipe weighs approximately six-thousand pounds and is cantilevered approximately sixteen feet. During scheduled plant downtime the carriage is required to translate along the overhead track in order to retract the burner pipe for maintenance. In September 2006 MCC consulted with Mr. Scott Morton and the University of Wyoming because the burner carriage on the K2 kiln line was causing scheduled plant downtime to become extended. Subsequent to this consultation James Eggleston and Cody McRady formed Gem City Engineering (GCE) and were selected to perform a re-design of the burner carriage as part of the two- semester senior design sequence. After a preliminary meeting with the MCC engineering staff GCE was able to analyze the problematic carriage system, and formulate a new carriage design. The new design included changes that allowed the carriage to move pass a large air duct, aiming system improvements, and a split axle and bearing system that would allow for easier operation. This presentation details the design, fabrication, and testing of the new burner carriage.
Subjects: Cement
kilns—Design and construction
Olivia Engkvist with Dr. Anne Alexander
Communications and Journalism/Modern and Classical Languages
University of Wyoming
Oral presentation
UW Honors Program Rawlins, WY
Abstract: This presentation and the supporting research paper will cover the process of establishing The Agape Fund, which is a charity affiliated with the Wyoming Community Foundation that invests money (obtained through personal donations and fundraising efforts) and gives the interest earned in the form of annual grants to Wyoming charities that help the poor.
The presentation will cover why I decided to start The Agape Fund, a brief description of the beginnings of philanthropy in America with Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller, and the process used in setting up The Agape Fund along with a description of alternative methods that could have been used to create it. It will also include reflections on whether The Agape Fund is the same now as what it was originally envisioned to be.
Subjects: Charities—Planning—Wyoming—Case studies
Chelsea Deborah Eyre with Dr. Debra Parkinson
Elementary & Early Childhood Education
University of Wyoming
Oral
Presentation
UW Honors Program Auburn, WY
Abstract: As I began preparing for student teaching, I decided to become involved in an inquiry project in order to assess and improve my teaching practices. The focus of my inquiry project centered on the question: How will second graders experience my teaching of a comprehensive humanities unit on maps, specifically focusing on legend, scale, and the compass rose?
After collaborating with my mentor teacher, I created a unit focused on the Wyoming State Standards and the objective: students will recognize key parts of a map, including a legend, a scale, and a compass. I created this unit in a college setting, before I was in the elementary classroom. What I found was my lessons were well intended, but not practical for use in the classroom. The information gained from my inquiry project helped me reflect and determine more effective ways to teach map concepts, as well as other subjects.
Throughout this paper, you will find reflections of: my teaching, how the students learned, and research on educational strategies. For each lesson taught, I will discuss the lesson plans I anticipated to teach, how the lesson was changed and actually taught, and my reflections of the lesson supported with theoretical evidence
Subjects: Map reading—Study and teaching (Elementary)—Wyoming—Evaluation
A Program for Computing Theoretical Light Curves of
Eclipsing
Binary Stars
Keisuke Fukutani with Dr. Henry Kobulnicky
Physics and Astronomy
University of Wyoming
Oral
Presentation
EPSCoR Nagoya, Japan
Abstract: In this research, very accurate mathematical expressions are derived and computational methods are used to compute the light curves of D-type (Detached) eclipsing binary systems with stellar limb-darkening taken into account. This computation is performed under the assumptions that both stars are spherical and perfect blackbodies so that brightening effects which arise from the reflection of the stellar radiation is neglected.
The product of this research is a computer code written in the IDL language which allows astronomers to compare simulated light curves at any wavelength to data for the purpose of determining the parameters of eclipsing systems (i.e., their orbital periods, stellar temperatures, stellar radii, stellar limb darkening, and eccentricities).
Subjects: Eclipsing binaries—Light curves—Computer programs
Kari Fuller and Julie Sandberg with Dr. Steven Barrett
Electrical and Computer Engineering
University of Wyoming
Oral and Poster
Presentations
Abstract: The Run AnyWear is an interactive fitness system to be used by runners. The device will provide the user with their heart rate, speed, distance traveled, and time elapsed on a wrist device through the use of a USB microcontroller that processes information obtained by a photo-electric pulse plethysmograph and an accelerometer. After the processing is completed by the microcontroller, all of the data is displayed on a 4 digit 7-segment LED display to allow the user to monitor their performance during exercise. This device is intended to promote an improvement in physical fitness. Unlike current machine-specific fitness systems, the Run AnyWear is not dependent upon workout equipment, shoes, or other expensive items. The user will be able to use the device in any environment (indoors or outdoors). This project has also been designed to allow for an expansion that would store the exercise data and transfer it to a software program. The software program would create statistics and graphs to help users keep track of their fitness progress. Limited power, weight, and size were the biggest concerns in this design. Keeping these issues in mind, the device was designed using the smallest and most power efficient components available that adequately perform the required tasks.
Subjects: Running—Equipment and supplies ; Exercise—Physiological aspects
Improvement
of the
STAR Telescope
Bryan Gorges with Dr. Steve Barrett
Electrical and Computer Engineering
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
UW Honors, Wyoming Space Grant Cheyenne, WY
Abstract: The improvement of the STAR telescope on top of Physical Sciences building will affect many undergraduate classes and research projects. The improvement is the dome following the telescope so that the telescope is always pointing into open sky. Previously the dome was controlled by large physical switches that were between 6-8 feet in the air. I provided a simple user interface that can be hand-held to adjust manually or set down to adjust automatically. This allows the user to stay at the telescope rather than having to move to the wall and back to adjust the dome.
Subjects: Large astronomical telescopes—Wyoming—Design and construction
Mikal Grant with Dr. Hakima Bessaih
Mathematics
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
EPSCoR Elk Mountain , WY
Abstract: The world around us is filled with random movements and fluctuations that can be modeled discretely. Explaining how and why a particular event happened is habitual and even routine for scientists. The question, though, of future behavior is a bigger challenge, and mathematicians have been answering the call to study predictive models for nearly two centuries.
A tool that many modelers use is a theory from physics that small particles suspended in fluid are in constant motion. Introduced Robert Brown in 1827, the model is given the name Brownian motion.
Briefly, a Brownian Motion is a sophisticated random number generator that is used in a wide variety of mathematical models in physics, chemistry, engineering, finance, and medical imagery.
The Biot-Savart model
uses a 3-dimensional Brownian motion to create a vector field that models vortices in three space. Some physical applications for this model include magnetic fields in electrical currents and tornado vortices.
This talk will focus on what the nature of Brownian Motion, using MATLAB to numerically simulate a Brownian Motion, and using a discretized Brownian motion in the Biot-Savart model to numerically simulate vector fields.
Subjects: Vortex-motion—Mathematical
models ; Brownian motion processes
Testing
the
diploid or haploid state of a prion protein pseudogene in white-tailed
deer (Odocoileus
virginianus) by
polymerase chain reaction
Heather Grimm with Dr. Jean Jewell
Veterinary Science
University of Wyoming
Oral Presentation
UW Honors Program/ EPSCoR Dumont, CO
Abstract: We extracted genomic DNA from 68 white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) from Wyoming and British Columbia and performed polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for the presence or absence of a prion protein pseudogene that we find in all mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) but in only 20-25 percent of the white-tail species. The normal prion protein becomes transformed into a disease-causing agent that is associated with the transmissible spongiform encephalopathy, Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). Within mammalian genomes there have been nearly 20,000 pseudogenes identified, and although these gene copies have been charact