Student Research Programs - Office of Undergraduate and ...

Student Research Programs 

2011 Summer Poster Session 

ABSTRACTS 

Photograph by Hayley Mallen 

Photograph by Codi Leitner 

Photograph by Amber Gallop 

Photograph by Hayley Mallen 

Sponsored by the University 

of Nevada, Reno and the 

Office of Undergraduate and 

Interdisciplinary Research 

August 11, 2011 

Joe Crowley Student Union 

University of Nevada, Reno 

http://environment.unr.edu/undergraduateresearch/

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

POSTER SESSION SCHEDULE ........................................................................................................................ 2 

PARTICIPATING PROGRAMS ........................................................................................................................ 3 

EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM FOR THE STIMULATION OF COMPETITIVE RESEARCH (NSF EPSCOR) ................................. 3 

FROM LAKE TAHOE TO PYRAMID LAKE: NATURAL RESOURCE ISSUES IN THE SIERRA NEVADA AND GREAT BASIN 

REGIONS - RESEARCH EXPERIENCE FOR UNDERGRADUATES (NSF REU) ................................................................ 3 

THE NASA NEVADA GEOBIOLOGY SUMMER SHORT COURSE (NASA SPACE GRANT) ................................................. 3 

NETWORK FOR EARTHQUAKE ENGINEERING SIMULATION - RESEARCH EXPERIENCE FOR UNDERGRADUATES 

(NEES REU) .............................................................................................................................................. 3 

NEVADA INBRE - PART OF THE IDEA NETWORK OF BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH EXCELLENCE PROGRAM (NIH INBRE) .......... 4 

PROGRAM SPONSOR.................................................................................................................................. 4 

OFFICE OF UNDERGRADUATE AND INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH ...................................................................... 4 

UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA, RENO .................................................................................................................... 4 

ABSTRACTS | POSTER PRESENTATIONS .................................................................................................... 5-24 

WHY UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH ...........................................................................................................25

POSTER SESSION SCHEDULE 

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11 

Joe Crowley Student Union Ballroom C 

2:30 – 3:00 p.m. Sign in and hang posters 

3:00 – 3:05 p.m. Welcome 

3:05– 4:30 p.m. Poster Session 

4:30 – 5:00 p.m. Remove Posters 

Mike Collopy 

Assistant Vice President for Research 

Director, Office of Undergraduate and Interdisciplinary Research 


Students will be present to discuss poster and answer questions. 

Refreshments and appetizers will be served 

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PARTICIPATING PROGRAMS 

EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM FOR THE STIMULATION OF COMPETITIVE RESEARCH (NSF EPSCoR) 

The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) received a Research Infrastructure Improvement (RII) Award from 

the National Science Foundation’s Experimental Program for the Stimulation of Competitive Research (NSF 

EPSCoR) for Climate Change research in Nevada. This award creates a statewide interdisciplinary program focused 

on understanding the effects of regional climate change on ecosystems, improving communication between 

researchers and policy makers, and better educating the public on climate change in Nevada. Summer EPSCoR 

grant proposals are solicited annually in the spring semester. Successful proposals are funded up to $4,500 for the 

student and $1,000 for the faculty mentor. For more information or to view upcoming EPSCoR solicitations, visit: 

http://www.nevada.edu/epscor/ 

FROM LAKE TAHOE TO PYRAMID LAKE: NATURAL RESOURCE ISSUES IN THE SIERRA NEVADA AND 

GREAT BASIN REGIONS - RESEARCH EXPERIENCE FOR UNDERGRADUATES (NSF REU) 

The Academy for the Environment, which is dedicated to providing interdisciplinary research and education 

opportunities for students and the Great Basin Institute, an environmental research, education and conservation 

organization, supported eight undergraduates during their NSF-sponsored Summer REU program. Research teams 

worked in the eastern Sierra region of Nevada, within the Lake Tahoe-Truckee River-Pyramid Lake watershed, on 

studies ranging from fire effects on watershed restoration to anthropogenic influences on water quality at Lake 

Tahoe. Participants were exposed to diverse scientific inquiries and technologies to gain insight into how science 

informs land and water use policy, management and conservation initiatives. Students selected for the program 

were provided a stipend of $4,250, along with housing on campus during the ten-week program. 

THE NASA NEVADA GEOBIOLOGY SUMMER SHORT COURSE (NASA SPACE GRANT) 

A two-week, research-based course was developed and implemented during the summer of 2010 to train 

undergraduate and graduate students, as well as highly qualified K-12 science teachers on microbial consortia in 

Nevada-specific environments. Participants became engaged in research on life in hotsprings, rocks 

(cryptoendoliths), snow, caves and highly stratified lakes. Much of the research was tied to ongoing research 

projects by NASA scientists and principal investigators seeking to better understand the limits of life on earth and 

the unique geochemical signatures that microbes impart on their environments. A unique aspect of the course 

has been the engagement of science teachers that are helping to develop strategies for translating high-level 

research and findings into lesson plans for K-12 education. 

NETWORK FOR EARTHQUAKE ENGINEERING SIMULATION - RESEARCH EXPERIENCE FOR 

UNDERGRADUATES (NEES REU) 

The NEES REU program is a dynamic 10-week summer research program for upper division undergraduate 

students interested in Civil Engineering, Computer Science/Engineering, and other fields related to seismic risk 

mitigation testing. REU participants are paired with a faculty advisor, join a NEES research team, and participate in 

enrichment activities including attending the NEES Annual Meeting and the Young Researchers' Symposium. 

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Mentors, including university faculty, researchers, and graduate students, provide support and guidance to 

interns. Students are taught how to conduct independent research and how to participate effectively as a 

member of a research team. Interns receive a $5,000 stipend. 

NEVADA INBRE - PART OF THE IDEA NETWORK OF BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH EXCELLENCE PROGRAM 

(NIH INBRE) 

The Nevada IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (Nevada INBRE) is a statewide network of physical 

and human resources available to scientists in Nevada. Its mission is to provide infrastructure that enables 

investigators to successfully acquire research funding. INBRE research core facilities provide research support 

services, training, and equipment for Nevada's biomedical investigators. The program also sponsors research, 

scholarship and training opportunities for faculty members and students throughout the state with programs such 

as the undergraduate research opportunities program and the biomedical students’ pipeline program. 

PROGRAM SPONSOR 

OFFICE OF UNDERGRADUATE AND INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH 

The Office of Undergraduate and Interdisciplinary Research works to foster an atmosphere of discovery and 

scholarship for all undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty. Interdisciplinary graduate programs and 

undergraduate research provide unique opportunities for students and faculty to address complex research issues 

of critical importance. 

UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA, RENO 

Established in 1864, the University of Nevada, Reno is Nevada's land-grant institution. Within the University, ten 

colleges offer undergraduate and graduate majors. Graduate-level training and research, including a number of 

doctoral-level programs, further the University's mission to create scholarly activity. The university is an integral 

part of the thriving Reno-Sparks area. Its 255-acre campus of rolling hills features a blend of ivy-covered buildings, 

sweeping lawns and functional, progressive architecture. The academic atmosphere is filled with rich 

surroundings for the cultural and intellectual development of students. 

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ABSTRACTS | POSTER PRESENTATIONS 

NONLINEAR DEVICE REPRESENTING ABUTMENT BACKFILL IN CURVED BRIDGE SEISMIC TESTING 

Brett Allen 

Program: NASA Space Grant 

Mentors: Kelly Lyttle, Joe Wieser 

Department: Civil and Environmental Engineering 

Michigan Technical University 

To better understand the effects of seismic activity on a horizontally curved bridge, 

a 2/5 scale model will be used in a series of tests on shake tables to simulate 

earthquake activity. Six configurations of the bridge will be modeled including: 

conventional case with columns, bearings and abutments are used, effects of live 

load, seismic isolation, energy dissipating devices, engagement of the abutment 

backfill, and rocking column footings. The project scope of this research is the 

engagement of abutment backfill or the soil-structure interaction on a seat type 

abutment. To further model the abutment backfill, a yielding spring will be used for ease of testing. To conduct 

the parametric study, a yielding spring was modeled in the computer analysis program SAP2000. Different 

parameters were explored for the model including: height and width of leg, thickness of the pipe, and diameter of 

pipe. The parameters with the largest impact on the force-displacement diagram were the thickness of the pipe 

and diameter. Modeling the soil behind the backwall is essential during testing to achieve accurate results. The 

soil-structure interaction has a significant role on the effects of a bridge during seismic activity, either damping or 

enhancing the effects depending on the soil type. Horizontally curved bridges currently have no additional design 

regulations compared with straight bridges. Results from the seismic testing will help introduce new design 

regulations for future curved bridge applications. 

GALECTIN-1 AND GALECTIN-3 AS POTENTIAL BIOMARKERS FOR MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY 

Erika Allred 

Program: NIH INBRE 

Mentors: Dean Burkin 

Department: Biology 


Merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy Type 1A (MDC1A) and 

Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy (DMD) are devastating neuromuscular diseases 

that result from genetic mutations. MDC1A develops due to a mutation in the in 

LAMA2 gene resulting in a loss of laminin-211/221. Laminins 211 and 221 are 

important components of mature skeletal muscle extracelluar matrix. Severely 

affected patients suffer from hypotonia, loss of ambulatory skills, and decreased 

life expectancies. DMD affects 1 in 3500 live male births and develops due to a 

mutation in the gene that encodes the large intracellular protein dystrophin. Dystrophin works with the 

dystrophin glycoprotein complex (DGC) to anchor myofibrils to the extracellular matrix. There is no cure for either 

disease and both are lethal. In addition to the lack of therapies available for muscular dystrophy patients, there is 

also a lack of biomarkers to monitor disease progression or to test the efficacy of disease treatments. Currently, 

muscle biopsies and serum creatine kinase (a byproduct of muscle breakdown) levels are used to monitor disease 

progression. Muscle biopsies are impractical and painful, however, and serum creatine kinase levels are often 

unreliable. We found that one protein, galectin-3, is elevated in both the MDC1A mouse model (dyW -/-) and the 

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DMD mouse model (mdx) as compared to wild-type animals. Galectin-3 has been associated with the extracellular 

matrix of cells and has been effectively used as a biomarker to monitor the progression of several other disease 

types, including numerous cancers. Therefore, our work demonstrates one possible biomarker for MDC1A and 

DMD, which may be monitored through minimally invasive methods (blood collection) or noninvase methods 

(urine collection). 

A DETERMINATION OF THE EFFECT OF DOCOSAHEXAENOIC ACID ON CELL DIFFERENTIATION AND 

INVASION IN CANCER CELLS 

Palvinder Bains 


Mentor: Keith Kikawa 

Department: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 


When grown on an extracellular matrix substrate like Matrigel, cell lines most 

often demonstrate differentiation patterns and form spheroids. However, the 

most aggressive cancer cell lines (i.e. A549) often exhibit a branching phenotype 

more typical of fibroblasts. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 

polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) known to inhibit the growth of a number of 

cancer cell lines, including the human lung adenocarcinoma cell line, A549, while 

the omega-6 PUFA, linoleic acid (LA), upregulates growth in the same cell lines. 

However, it was previously unknown whether the inhibitory effects of PUFAs extend to alterations in cell 

differentiation and invasion. In the current study, the growth of the A549 and BT-474 human ductal carcinoma 

cell line on Matrigel was examined in response to DHA and LA supplementation. Interestingly, while DHA 

inhibited even spheroid formation and growth of both cell lines, LA greatly enhanced cell branching in A549 cells. 

Moreover, when cell invasion was measured, LA very significantly increased the percentage of cells invading, 

while DHA demonstrated slight decreases. Future studies will examine the effects of DHA and LA on cell 

differentiation in non-transformed cell lines and perform a survey of extracellular matrix proteins like vinculin and 

e-cadherin. The current data suggests PUFAs can alter cell invasiveness and growth on Matrigel providing 

important insight to establish new approaches for the treatment of cancer. 

LAUNCHING NANO-SIZED SPHERICAL GLASS BEADS INTO AN OPTICAL TRAP 

Melanie Beck 

Program: NSF EPSCoR 

Mentor: Andrew Geraci 

Department: Physics 


There are currently multiple efforts to establish whether or not nonNewtonian 

gravitational forces exist when measured on a scale of microns. In order to increase 

force detection on such small scales it has been proposed to trap and levitate a 

nanometer-sized glass bead in an optical cavity in an ultrahigh vacuum. An object 

near a dense mass will experience a deflection. Precise measurements of this 

deflection could yield the existence of exotic new gravitational forces. Due to 

levitation, the bead’s motion would not be hindered by friction from surface 

contact nor from collisions with air molecules due to the ultrahigh vacuum. Extraordinarily sensitive 

measurements could be achieved. As a first step toward this goal, I propose to construct a device capable of 

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delivering beads into an optical cavity for levitation. Beads of this size are subject to the van der Waals force and 

will adhere strongly to any surface. One method for successfully launching microscopic glass beads is to place 

them on a surface to which a vibration is applied. If the vibration is sufficient, the beads will bounce off of the 

surface and into the air. In order to control the frequency of the vibration, a piezoelectric material can be 

attached under the surface on which the beads rest. These materials contract and expand proportional to an 

applied voltage allowing vibrational motion of the material in a controlled way. Applying a voltage such that the 

piezoelectric material vibrates on resonance will amplify the force felt by the beads. With a force larger than the 

van der Waals force, the beads will detach. Once free of the surface they can be optically trapped and levitated 

by a focused laser. 

AN ANALYSIS OF THE NEARSHORE WATER TEMPERATURES OF LAKE TAHOE 

Sarah Calhoun 

Program: NSF REU 

Mentor: Sudeep Chandra 

Department: Natural Resources and Environmental Science 


Lake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake that has been studied extensively over the 

last 50 years, primarily for the factors that are changing offshore clarity. 

Decreasing offshore clarity is attributed to rising temperatures and the current 

nonnative species that inhabit the lake, causing unfavorable changes in the 

ecosystem. Both of these factors can be associated with the development that 

continues to occur around the coastal areas of the lake and the interaction of 

people with nearshore habitats. The nearshore environment is the area that most 

visitors to the lake spend their time. It is also the area of the lake where many invasive species are establishing, 

such as warmwater fishes. Recent studies suggest that the establishment of these fishes may be partly due to 

increases in nearshore temperature due to climate change. The probability of these nonnative species increasing 

in numbers and spreading to the offshore areas increases if the temperatures continue to rise. In this study we 

examine the mean summer temperatures in the nearshore areas around the lake through the use of periodic 

temperature loggers. Taking a closer look at four particular sites existing in marinas and open water, this study 

points out the differences in temperatures around the lake and the effects of cultural eutrophication in Lake 

Tahoe. A literature search on invasive species and their temperature-preference relationships was also conducted 

to gain an understanding as to why such species occur around Lake Tahoe. This study will further the 

understanding of ecological effects caused by current and potential invasive species and the overall effects of 

warmer nearshore temperatures on a large freshwater ecosystem. 

CHARACTERIZATION OF LANA’S ROLE IN THE RECRUITMENT OF TOPOISOMERASE II BETA 

Nathan Carter 


Mentor: Subhash Verma 



Kaposi’s Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus (KSHV) also called Human Herpesvirus 

8, is a member of the gammaherpesvirus family, and is associated with human 

cancers including Kaposi’s Sarcoma, Primary Effusion Lymphoma, and 

Multicentric Castleman’s Disease. KSHV, like other herpesviruses, establishes life 

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long infection without causing any disease symptoms in healthy individuals. However, it causes various 

lymphoproliferative diseases in immune compromised individuals including the AIDS patients. In the infected 

cells, KSHV remains latent and expresses only a subset of genes. Latency Associated Nuclear Antigen (LANA) is 

among the proteins expressed during latency and is important for tethering the KSHV episomal DNA to the host 

chromosomes. LANA interacts with various cellular and viral proteins and is classified as an oncogene. LANA is 

known to bind to terminal repeats in the KSHV genome, facilitate viral DNA replication and is important for 

episomal maintenance, but lacks any enzymatic activity, suggesting the recruitment of host replication machinery. 

A previous LANA binding affinity column identified Topoisomerase II Beta (TopoIIb) as an LANA interacting 

protein. TopoIIb is required for cellular DNA replication therefore we hypothesized that LANA recruits TopoIIb at 

the site of replication to initiate DNA replication. Here, we characterized the binding of TopoIIb with LANA using 

immunoprecipitation assay. We also determined the binding of topoIIb with LANA in a co-localization assay in 

KSHV infected tumor cells. In our immunoprecipitation assay, TopoIIb bound to LANA full length and the binding 

region was mapped to the N-terminal domain of LANA. Using a confocal microscopy, we were able to find distinct 

nuclear compartments with LANA and TopoIIb co-localizing together in KSHV infected, BCBL-1 tumor cells. These 

results confirmed our hypothesis that LANA recruits TopoIIb for the replication of viral DNA. 

DETERMINING THE ROLE OF LANA IN CHROMATIN REMODELING 

Shanthan Challa 





Kaposi’s Sarcoma associated Herpesvirus (KSHV) also called Human Herpesvirus 8 

(HHV8) is linked to primary effusion lymphomas (PELs) and multicentric castleman’s 

disease (MCDs). KSHV causes tumors predominantly in HIV+ immunocompromised 

patients and is among the leading cause of AIDS related deaths. Although the 

introduction of HAART for the treatment of HIV/AIDS has reduced the risk of KSHV 

induced tumors but the virus remains present in the infected individuals and causes 

these KS tumors to reoccur. Therefore, KSHV specific drugs are needed to eliminate 

virus from infected individuals. KSHV, like other herpesvirus persists indefinitely in the infected host and exhibit 

two distinct phases, latency and lytic. During latency, only a subsets of genes are expressed and the Latency 

Associated Nuclear Antigen (LANA) is among the most expressed proteins in all KSHV tumors. Our yeast-2-hybrid 

data with LANA as bait identified a component of the chromatin remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex, 

CHD4 (Chromodomain Helicase DNA binding protein 4) suggesting its role in viral chromatin modulation. Since 

chromatin remodeling plays an important role in viral reactivation and tumorigenesis a better understanding of 

the regulation of chromatin structure is warranted in controlling viral infections and viral-associated 

tumorigenesis. We hypothesize that LANA might be recruiting CHD4 at the viral chromatin to modulate the 

expression of viral genes for establishment of latency. Immuno Florescence Assay on BCBL and Hela cells showed 

that LANA and CHD4 co-localize in-vivo. Co-immunoprecipitation analysis was performed with over expressed 

LANA and CHD4 in HEK293 cells and we found out that LANA does interact with CHD4 for expression of viral 

genes. To map the specific binding region of CHD4 with LANA , co-immunoprecipitation analysis was done with 

cells expressing CHD4 Wild type, N-terminus and C-terminus along with LANA. The result indicated that LANA colocalizes 

with CHD4 and binds to its N-terminus. 

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A COOPERATIVE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CYANOBACTERIA AND E. COLI FOR THE PRODUCTION OF 

BIOFUELS 

Marguerite Christian 


Mentor: Christie Howard 



E. coli can be engineered to produce resources such as biodiesel and bioethanol, 

however, the growth media costs account for 30-40% of the total cost, making it 

less efficient than other methods. The goal of this research is to produce biofuels at 

a drastically lowered cost. One way science can reduce the cost is to genetically 

engineer photosynthetic bacteria like cyanobacteria to produce biofuels from CO2. 

However, in a number of cases cyanobacteria has been shown to be less productive 

in making biofuels than E. coli, presumably due to lack of transport proteins or 

internal toxicity issues. As an alternative approach, the University of Nevada, Reno undergraduate iGEM 

(International Genetically Machine) team is using cyanobacteria to address the problem of high media cost by 

transforming the cyanobacteria Synechocystis PCC 6803 to produce high levels of glucose to be released into the 

media and feed our genetically engineered E. coli. By co-culturing these two organisms, direct carbon transfer 

from CO2 to ethanol and C12 fatty acids can be achieved. To achieve this goal, the cyanobacteria needs to 

produce glucose in high concentrations as the carbon source. To raise glucose concentrations, glycogen 

production via the agp gene will be knocked out, leading to a higher sucrose production. The bacteria will then be 

engineered to overexpress the gene encoding invertase, which converts sucrose to glucose and fructose. To 

increase output of these products, overexpression of glf, the gene encoding a transporter of the glucose and 

fructose, will also be engineered into cyanobacteria. My research will focus on designing the construct to knock 

out the agp gene. The ultimate goal of the iGEM team is to use genetically engineered cyanobacteria to sustain E. 

coli for the purpose of producing biofuel products at a significantly lowered cost. 

CATERPILLAR-PARASITOID INTERACTION DIVERSITY ALONG AN ALTITUDINAL GRADIENT WITHIN THE 

SIERRA NEVADA AND EASTERN SLOPE OF THE ANDES MOUNTAINS 

Kirsha Frederickson 

Program: GURA 

Mentor: Lee Dyer 

Major: Biology 


It is a major goal of ecological studies to quantify diversity of trophic interactions 

and to understand how these interactions are related to major global issues of 

climate change, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem services. As a follow-up to a 

similar study conducted by the PI (K. Fredrickson) and other students, we will 

continue to test the hypothesis that altitudinal gradients in interaction diversity are 

consistent across large latitudinal gradients. Standardized methods of plot sampling 

will be used to estimate the caterpillar-parasitoid abundances and diversity in the 

Sierra Nevada, along altitudinal gradients. A total of 100 plots were deployed in summer 2010, and another 100 

plots will be deployed this summer. The plant genus, Alnus, is the focal plant in the study; all caterpillars reared 

will be collected off of this plant. 

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NUTRIENT CONCENTRATIONS IN O-HORIZON LEACHATE 

Rachel Funk 


Mentor: Wally Miller 

Major: Environmental Sciences 

Eureka College 

O Horizon leachate from Sierran forests can be an important contributor of 

inorganic nutrients in soil, overland and/or litter interflow, and water quality. The 

nutrient content and leachability from litter (Oi) and duff (Oe) materials is 

therefore important, as is the duration of extraction (leaching) event. The effect of 

material and extraction time on leachate nutrient concentration and amount was 

investigated for three O horizon materials (Oi, Oe, and Oi+Oe) from seven sites 

across the Sierras. The extractions were performed over 4 extraction intervals (10 

min, 30 min, 60 min and 120 min) with 3 replications for a 3x4x3 study design. The results will show how 

nutrients are discharged from the o-horizon, including which layers serve as sources of nutrients and how 

concentrations are affected by extraction time. 

HYDROTHERMAL CARBONIZATION OF WOODY BIOMASS 

Brian Gallaspy 


Mentors: Kent Hoekman, Wei Yan 

Department: Chemical Engineering 


Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is a process by which lignocellulosic (woody) 

biomass is converted into a solid fuel having a higher energy density than the 

starting feedstock. Broadly, lignocellulosic biomass is composed of three 

components: cellulose, hemi-cellulose and lignin. The HTC reaction is carried out by 

placing the feedstock in hot, pressurized water. Under these conditions, the hemicellulose 

readily breaks down into simple sugars that are dissolved into the water. 

The recovered solid product has a higher C/O ratio, and thereby a higher energy 

density. Under optimal HTC conditions, the biochar product has similar properties to a low-rank coal. One 

implication of this is that the HTC process could be used to produce a renewable solid fuel that could replace or 

supplement coal in existing power plants with little to no modification of the equipment used. This project aims to 

investigate how the reaction conditions affect the product. The reaction is carried out in a specially designed twochamber 

reactor which allows the water to be heated to the desired reaction conditions in the lower chamber, 

while the biomass waits in the upper chamber. The purpose of the two-chamber reactor is to allow for fine 

control of temperature conditions. Once the desired temperature is reached, a valve is opened and the biomass 

falls into the water and the reaction begins. The conditions being varied are: temperature (200 °C, 230 °C and 260 

°C), reaction hold time (1, 3 and 5 minutes), and particle size (14-28 mesh, 10-14 mesh and 8-10 mesh). The 

product is then pelletized, and characterized using calorimetry along with a number of other physical tests 

including strength, attrition and hydrophobicity. 

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NDOT UNBONDED PRESTRESSED COLUMNS FOR EARTHQUAKE RESISTANCE 

Gregory Grajczyk 

Program: NEES REU 

Mentor: David Sanders 

Department: Civil Engineering 

University of Toledo 

Earthquakes around the world bring devastation to communities, especially if 

places have not implemented lessons learned from earthquakes. Conventionally 

reinforced columns are the standard technology used but have shown severe 

damage under dynamic loadings. A new methodology, unbonded prestressed 

columns, has been shown to dissipate energy and provide a better re-centering 

capability decreasing their residual displacements and their level of damage. Since 

it is new methodology, many parameters still need to be investigated. The purpose 

of this parametric study was to investigate the effects of tendon location in prestressed columns with respect to 

the centroid of the column’s cross section, varying amounts of longitudinal reinforcement, axial dead load, force 

of post-tensioning, amount of post-tensioning, and the column’s aspect ratio using the computer analysis 

program SAP2000. Using this data in combination with experimental data that will be collected in September 

2011, analytical models will be calibrated for design purposes. The data concluded that a tendon location of 22.5% 

of the column’s diameter should be used for optimum performance. Increased dead loads lead to increased 

energy dissipation but greater residual displacements. Higher post-tensioning should be used to decrease residual 

displacements and an aspect ratio of 4.5 should be used, balancing both column strength and ductility. 

MHC, MATE PREFERENCE AND PARASITES 

Mitchell Gritts 


Mentor: Marjorie Matocq 



The major histocompatibility complex (MHC), or the human leukocyte antigen 

(HLA) complex in humans, is a gene dense region of the genome that is important 

for immune function and self/non-self recognition (1, 2, 3, 4). The genes of the 

MHC are the most polymorphic loci known in vertebrates and produce molecules 

that initiate an immune response (2, 3). An explanation for the high levels of 

polymorphism has become an important question in evolutionary biology. Recent 

studies have shown that high variability in MHC molecules correlates with higher 

disease and parasite resistance (5), but that extreme variability in MHC molecules may lead to autoimmune 

disorders (3). Selection due to parasites and sexual selection are mechanisms by which MHC diversity may be 

maintained (2, 3,6). Individuals with high MHC diversity are expected to be able to resist more pathogens 

because they produce a wider range MHC molecules with which to evade parasites (3,5,7). However, extreme 

high levels of diversity at the MHC may lead to autoimmune disorder due to a failure to recognize MHC molecules 

as self derived peptides (8). Natural selection is expected to balance these two forces so that individuals with an 

optimal MHC diversity to better resist pathogens (9). To investigate the role of mate choice and parasite diversity 

as mechanisms for the maintenance of MHC polymorphisms in vertebrates I will use a colony of a wild caught, 

captive breeding rodent, Neotoma fuscipes (dusky-footed woodrat). Specifically I will test the hypotheses that 

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individuals with optimal MHC diversity will have lower parasite loads and that females will select males of an 

optimal MHC diversity compared to her MHC diversity. 

MODELING THE IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HYDROLOGY AT GALENA CREEK, NEVADA 

Joanne Heslop 


Mentor: Douglas Boyle 



Mountain snowfall is a major water supply source in the California and Nevada 

region. Climate change is resulting in higher winter temperatures in the Western 

United States, causing a greater proportion of winter precipitation to fall as rain, 

earlier snowmelt dates, and earlier onset of spring. In order to fully understand 

how these changes will alter regional water supply, it is first necessary to 

understand how climate change will affect stream discharge in snowmelt 

dominated watersheds. This study utilized the Thornthwaite Water Balance model 

and historical and future climate scenarios to simulate how climate change influences streamflow in Galena 

Creek, a small snowmelt dominated stream near Reno, Nevada. Both historical and future trends are identified at 

Galena Creek for the time period between 1890 and 2099. 

IDENTIFYING AND UTILIZING SPECIFIC MOLECULAR MARKERS FOR NEURAL TRACTS IN THE 

DEVELOPING BRAIN USING IN OVO ELECTROPORATION 

Hannah Jordan 

Mentor: Grant Mastick 



In the developing brain there are distinct populations of neurons which form the 

first longitudinal projections in the nervous system. These initial tracts serve as a 

template for the remainder of the developing cells, thus the accuracy and precision 

of these projections is of great importance. The mechanism by which these 

neurons are able to navigate so accurately, as well as where they are projecting, is 

still being researched. To help investigate these questions we looked at identifying 

molecular markers unique to each group of cells forming these tracts. There are 

non-coding regions of DNA involved in transcriptional activation called enhancers, 

which are at times activated only in specific populations of cells. Identifying these regions would allow us to track 

where these cells project as well as perform genetic manipulations to better understand how axons are guided 

longitudinally. To find these enhancer sequences bioinformatics as well as searching through existing databanks of 

previously found enhancers was employed. Once possible enhancer sequences are identified we will insert the 

sequences into a plasmid reporter system and electroporate chick embryos with said plasmids to see where 

expression arises. The project is still in an early phase, but we hope to see the enhancers driving expression of our 

reporter gene in specific populations of longitudinal neurons. Once the specificity of our chosen enhancers is 

confirmed via in ovo analysis of our chick electroporation transfects we can use these enhancer sequences to 

further the understanding of axon guidance, such as increasing the expression of an extracellular receptor 

involved in axon guidance in just one specific type of neurons, and also better map the the final fate of these 

pioneer axons. 

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MEASUREMENT ACCURACY AND POTENTIAL COMMERCIAL APPLICATION OF HANDHELD SUN 

PHOTOMETERS 

David Karr 

Program: NASA EPSCoR 

Mentors: Pat Arnott, Hans Moosmuller 



Aerosols in our atmosphere produced by fossil fuel consumption and forest fires 

have negative impact on human health, visibility, and climate change. Using sun 

photometers to measure aerosol concentration has been largely successful; 

however, such instruments are often expensive and require a technical background 

for data interpretation. Increased awareness by providing affordable and 

accessible instrumentation is a step towards understanding and reducing these 

pollutants. The first goal of this research is to determine the accuracy of an inhouse 

(UNR developed) handheld, six-wavelength sun photometer. The data will be compared with that from 

commercial-grade spectrometers: the Ocean Optics SD2000 and the AErosol RObotic NETwork’s (AERONET) Cimel 

CE-318. The handheld instrument will be a mobile and affordable hands-on tool for educational purposes; user 

friendly online programs will provide quick, non-technical data analysis. Sun photometers are also widely used for 

calibrating satellite remote sensing measurements of trace gases and aerosol. The handheld photometers use 

LEDs to detect sunlight at wavelengths corresponding to gaseous absorption lines for relevant atmospheric gases 

and aerosols. During a given time frame, the handhelds and the spectrometer-based sun photometers obtain 

measurements at constant intervals. The data is processed using Beer-Lambert’s Law and the Langley Method. 

The slope of the best-fit line gives the total optical depth, the measurement of how much light gets scattered or 

absorbed in the atmosphere. Subtracting Rayleigh scattering of air from the total optical depth gives the aerosol 

optical depth. Comparison of aerosol optical depth measurements from the sun photometers and NASA’s 

Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) instruments on the Aqua and Terra satellites will be 

discussed. Potential educational and industrial markets for the LED-based handheld sun photometers will be 

investigated and presented. 

THE IMPACT AND FUTURE IMPLICATIONS OF URBAN RUNOFF FROM THE TAHOE KEYS: A VISUAL 

ANALYSIS 

Codi Leitner 


Mentor: Peter Goin 

Department: Earth and Environmental Sciences 

Wesleyan University 

Lake Tahoe and its surrounding watershed have been subject to landscapemodifying 

human activity since the mid-1800’s; specifically, pervasive timber 

harvest from the 1850s to 1920s and commercial and residential development 

beginning in the 1950’s that has persisted to the present day. Following WWII, 

urbanization of the Lake Tahoe Basin was accompanied by draining, dredging, and 

filling of many wetland areas in order to accommodate the demand for lakefront 

housing and community development. This practice reached its ultimate peak in 

the late 50’s and early 1960s with the construction of the Tahoe Keys, a 740-acre subdivision in the Tahoe region’s 

principal wetland zone at the mouth of the Upper Truckee River. The initial construction of the Tahoe Keys 

13

prompted a rush in wetland development, and between the years of 1969 and 1979, about 25% of the Basin’s 

marshland was developed for human use. As marshes serve as natural filtration systems, their destruction often 

results in increases in sediment accumulation rates, the deterioration of water quality, and the introduction of 

exotic species, often accelerated by the direct correlation between urbanization and issues such as automobile 

traffic, urban runoff, and increased water use. This photographic study seeks to shed light on the decreased water 

clarity of Lake Tahoe since the construction and inhabitance of the Tahoe Keys, by providing specific visual 

references to the deterioration in water quality in the Tahoe Keys region as evidenced by sediment accumulation 

and the resulting diminution in clarity. By assessing the current levels of sediment buildup in a visual comparison 

to past images, one can make predictions as to the future state of Lake Tahoe with the added issues of climate 

change and the potential for reduced mixing of the stratified layers of the lake if urban expansion and the 

resulting pollution continues at a similar rate. 

A VISUAL STUDY OF THE ROLE ENVIRONMENTALISM PLAYS IN TRPA REGULATIONS 

Hayley Mallen 


Mentor: Peter Goin 

Department: Environmental Studies 

University of Kansas 

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) was sanctioned by the U.S. Congress in 

order to serve as a bi-state regulatory entity along the California and Nevada 

border in the Lake Tahoe Basin. The primary function of the TRPA is to preserve the 

natural environment in the basin while allowing a certain extent of development 

within the residential and non-residential framework. However, maintaining 

equilibrium between these two goals is challenging at best. Oftentimes the 

community perception of such regulations upheld by the TRPA is influenced by 

media information, which can produce biased viewpoints. Therefore the question is: What role does 

environmentalism play in development regulations mandated by the TRPPA The purpose of this study is to 

determine whether or not a relative level of equilibrium is being upheld between development permits, which 

target improvement of the natural environment and those geared at human-based infrastructure projects. Do the 

projects in fact facilitate environmental protection in order to preserve the integrity of the Tahoe landscape The 

research is specifically focused on the most recent Community Enhancement Projects being considered by the 

TRPA. Quantitative analysis of the type of project, as well as visual surveying of site locations is used to explore 

regulations. I predict that permit analysis and visual surveying will serve as an appropriate data source for 

interpreting the current management system operating in the Tahoe Basin. Benefits of this study include an 

increase in awareness of the relationship between the types of projects being implemented in the Tahoe Basin 

and could serve as a foundation for improvement of future development regulations. 

14

ENZYMATIC DEWATERING OF DIGESTED SLUDGE 

Diane Mar 


Mentor: Charles Coronella 



Traditional dewatering processes for sewer sludge are expensive and inadequate 

for the development of efficient energy production from dried sludge biosolids. 

While some of the moisture can be removed by mechanical processes, a majority 

of it is bound intracellularly and by intermolecular forces. Even after dewatering, 

the moisture content of digested sludge is high at around 85%. Enzymes may be 

able to assist in dewatering through lysing of cells and releasing some of this bound 

water, and the ability of proteases, cellulases, and lipases to enhance mechanical 

dewatering was examined. The enzymes were added to sludge solutions of 5 wt% solids both individually and in 

combination with each other and were tested at pHs of 5 and 8. The effect of salt concentration in conjunction 

with enzymes was also studied. Samples were then centrifuged and moisture content measurements through 

weight loss from oven drying were taken to determine the efficiency of these enzymes. However, enzymes that 

were tested had little to no effect on the dewatering of sludge with a less than 1% difference on average between 

the controls and the enzyme treated samples. While enzymes could be an economically beneficial and effective 

treatment of sludge, further research on the substrates and the enzymes that act upon them would be necessary. 

THE DETERMINATION OF HOW DOCOSAHEXAENOIC ACID AND LINOLEIC ACID ALTER EICOSANOID 

PRODUCTION IN A MODEL OF HUMAN LUNG CANCER 

Clarissa Martins 


Mentors: Keith Kikawa, Ronald Pardini 



It is clear that the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) docosahexaenoic 

acid (DHA) exhibits in vitro growth inhibitory effects on the A549 human lung 

adenocarcinoma cell line. Conversely, the omega-6 PUFA linoleic acid (LA) 

upregulates cell growth rates in the same model of lung cancer cell lines. PUFAs 

sere as precursors for eicosanoids and this has long been thought to play a role in 

their effects on various cancers. The omega-3 PUFAs tend to be precursors for 

anti-inflammatory eicosanoids, while omega-6 PUFAs tend to be converted into 

pro-inflammatory eicosanoids like prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). In the present study, the effect of DHA and LA 

supplementation on eicosanoid levels in the human A549 lung adenocarcinoma and BT-474 breast ductal 

carcinoma cell lines has been examined. LA treatments upregulated PGE2 levels significantly in both cell lines, 

and these effects correlated with alterations in cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) activity levels. Future studies will 

examine whether there are modifications in the levels of transforming growth factor α (TGF-α) dependent on 

PGE2, to determine if PGE2 is upregulating pro-proliferative signals. In addition to the findings with PGE2, it was 

determined that DHA supplementation upregulated thromboxane B2 (TXB2) levels. TXB2 is a stable metabolite of 

thromboxane A2 (TXA2), which inhibits cyclooxygenase activity, which is typically associated with aggressive 

cancers. Taken together, these data indicate LA is upregulating cancer cell growth in part by increasing COX 

15

activity and PGE2 levels, while DHA may be having inhibitory effects on cancer cell growth by decreasing activated 

COX. 

EXPRESSION OF POLY-ADENYLATED NUCLEAR RNA ELEMENT IN KAPOSI’S SARCOMA ASSOCIATED 

HERPES VIRUS USING LENTIVIRUS 

Nana Matsumoto 


Mentors: Cyprian Rossetto, Gregory Pari 



Kaposi’s Sarcoma Herpes Virus (KSHV) is a large gammaherpesvirus, which is 

known to be a causative agent for Kaposi’s sarcoma (AIDS associated cancer), 

primary effusion lymphoma (PEL), and multicentric Castlemen’s disease (MCL). 

Therefore, deciphering the virus’ mechanism of replication and its interactions with 

the host cell is of great interest. One notable lytic transcript produced by KSHV of 

our interest is PAN (poly-adenlyated nuclear transcript). PAN (1077bp in length) is 

an exclusively nuclear, unspliced, non-coding RNA that becomes the most 

abundant transcript within the host cell’s nucleus during lytic infection (~70-80% of total transcript). To date, no 

known function of PAN is observed. The two objectives of this study were to: first, successfully clone PAN into a 

vector compatible with lentiviral expression system, and second, obtain viral titers expressing PAN-RNA to 

transduce target cells in the future. This system allows observing the cellular effects from PAN without any 

interruptions via other viral components of KSHV, and ensures transfection of a wide spectrum of cells – thus 

creating a better model that mimics natural infection. To meet the objectives, the PAN locus was PCR amplified 

and cloned into an expression vector containing the lentivirus genome and antibiotic resistance necessary for 

selection. The vector, along with other components of the lentivirus genome were cotransfected into human 

embryonic kidney (HEK) 293FT cells where lentiviral titers were confirmed. After conducting antibiotic selection 

with HEK 293L cells followed by RT-PCR, we confirmed that PAN-RNA was indeed being produced in the target 

cells. This suggests that we will now be able to transduce various cell lines with PAN. Future studies will focus on 

the precise role of PAN and its potential roles in inhibiting the host’s innate immunity. 

DETERMINATION OF A SORPTION MECHANISM FOR 17B-TRENBOLONE 

Samantha McBride 


Mentors: Edward Kolodziej 



Trenbolone acetate is frequently injected into cattle as a growth promoter in the 

beef industry. Once injected, it metabolizes to its most active form, the 17β isomer. 

After trenbolone (TB) makes its way through the body, it is excreted as a 

combination of 17β, 17α, and trendione. These metabolites often enter natural 

waters via rainfall run-off, and have the potential to enter our water supply. Both 

case studies and extensive research have shown that TB acts as an endocrine 

disruptor in fish, causing trans-genderization. As a result, the potential impact on 

human health if these steroids were to enter our water supply is of concern. My project therefore focused on 

developing a deeper understanding of how 17β-TB moves throughout the environment. Previous research has 

16

shown that all metabolites of TBA sorb to organic matter found in soils, and that higher carbon concentrations are 

linked to higher sorption rates. However, we do not yet understand the mechanism in which they sorb. In order to 

predict the mechanism, I determined the sorption isotherm and the sorption of 17β-TB onto natural organic 

matter with various characteristics. Correctly identifying this mechanism may be key to understanding how best 

to remove these contaminants both from the environment and from drinking water supply. 

EFFECTS OF ARSENIC AND ARSENIC METABOLITES ON L-TYPE CALCIUM CHANNEL AND LARGE 

CONDUCTANCE POTASSIUM CHANNEL ACTIVITY IN VASCULAR SMOOTH MUSCLE 

Kevin McPherson 


Mentors: Jeff Angermann 

Department: School of Community Health Sciences 


Arsenic is a ubiquitous, naturally occurring metalloid that can leach into aquifers 

via sediment or associated bedrock. Contaminated drinking water is the main 

source of human arsenic exposure worldwide, and consumption of groundwater 

containing elevated levels of arsenic poses significant chronic health risks. 

Epidemiologic studies have connected the chronic ingestion of arsenic 

contaminated drinking water to the prevalence of hyperkeratosis, various forms of 

cancer, hypertension, diabetes, and atherosclerosis, among others. Inorganic 

arsenic (As3+) and the human metabolite monomethylarsonous acid (MMAs3+) are believed to be the two most 

toxic forms of arsenic. Both As3+ and MMAs3+ are believed to affect the activity of the voltage-gated or 'L-type' 

calcium channel (LTCC), which, as the most thoroughly characterized vascular smooth muscle calcium channel 

facilitating extracellular Ca2+ entry and the development and maintenance of vascular tone, plays an important 

role in the development of systemic hypertension. Intracellular Ca2+ can modulate the activity of other classes of 

ion channels, including the large conductance Ca2+-activated potassium channel (BKCa), which is a known 

modulator of arterial tone, and has been recently implicated in the development of hypertension. In disease 

states such as hypertension, Ca2+ influx has been shown to alter vascular reactivity. In order to better understand 

the role of arsenic in these disease states, it is important to evaluate As3+-induced alterations in vascular smooth 

muscle transmembrane calcium flux, as well as the subsequent activation of Ca2+-dependent ion channels such as 

BKCa. LTCCs have a negative feedback response with BKCa channels; BKCa channels promote hyperpolarization of 

the cell membrane, causing closure of voltage-activated Ca2+ channels. MMAs3+ may inhibit LTCC, thereby 

depressing contractile agonist-induced intracellular calcium levels; however, the effect of arsenic on BKCa channel 

activity has not been studied. In light of the recent finding that inorganic arsenic can decrease LTCC conductance 

in rat aorta, and because BKCa activity is important to the generation of resting membrane potential, 

determination of the effects of acute and chronic arsenic exposure on BKCa expression and activity may foster a 

greater understanding of the mechanisms by which arsenic is associated with essential hypertension. 

17

HABITAT PREFERENCES OF NORTHERN FLYING SQUIRRELS IN THE EAST TAHOE BASIN: 

IMPLICATIONS FOR FOREST HEALTH 

Corey Milinovich 


Mentors: Lynn Zimmerman 

Department: Environmental Science 

University of San Francisco 

Previous deforestation during the mining era followed by fire suppression in the 

Tahoe Basin has resulted in unhealthy forest stands, affecting both susceptibility to 

fire and habitat quality for resident wildlife. Northern Flying Squirrels (Glaucomys 

sabrinus) are considered a keystone species in forested areas of northern and 

western North America because they aid in the dispersal of truffles and other fungi 

important for nutrient and water uptake by host trees. Because little is known 

about habitat requirements of Flying Squirrels in the east Tahoe basin, I surveyed 

known nesting trees as well as randomly selected neighborhood trees to identify characteristics of habitat utilized 

by Flying squirrels in Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. In this region of the east Tahoe basin, Northern Flying 

Squirrels preferred taller Red Firs (Abies magnifica) with more canopy cover and witches brooms (proliferation of 

twigs) than randomly selected neighborhood trees. Habitat characteristics also differed between nest tree plots 

and randomly selected plots. Protecting these habitat characteristics and including them in fuel reduction 

prescriptions will support Flying Squirrel populations and enhance forest health in the East Tahoe Basin. 

FOULING IN FORWARD OSMOSIS 

Jenny Mital 


Mentor: Amy Childress 



Membrane technology, specifically forward osmosis, poses a promising solution for 

keeping pace with increasing water demand in its water treatment and reclamation 

capabilities. Forward osmosis (FO), the newer, engineered application of osmosis, 

involves the diffusion of water across the membrane from an area of low solute 

concentration to an area of high solute concentration. Reverse osmosis (RO), the 

more established membrane technology, utilizes hydraulic pressure to transport 

treated water across the membrane. The membrane rejects almost all solute and 

contaminants. Membrane fouling is one of the most detrimental factors to membrane process efficiency. There 

is evidence that forward osmosis experiences less fouling or that it experiences more reversible fouling than 

reverse osmosis. Higher fouling reversibility in FO may be linked to the observed cleaning effects of salt water due 

to reverse salt diffusion across the membrane into the feed solution. Furthermore, it is conjectured that higher 

fouling reversibility in FO is linked to the lack of hydraulic pressure. Experiments were performed to examine the 

mechanisms by which forward osmosis (FO) seems to undergo more reversible fouling compared to reverse 

osmosis (RO) and offer insight into the role of reverse salt diffusion and hydraulic pressure in membrane cleaning. 

In these experiments, the type of salt in the FO draw solutions and the hydraulic pressure in on the RO feed 

solutions were varied in order to analyze corresponding decreases or increases in flux during fouling and cleaning 

experiments. 

18

ELECTROCHEMICAL CHANGES IN CDS NANOWIRES DUE TO PARTIAL CATION EXCHANGE 

Aaron Peterson 


Mentor: Ravi Subramanian 



Semiconductor nanowires have been of interest lately because of their unusual 

properties and possible applications in solar power, sensors and electronic devices. 

CdSe nanowires have potential for solar applications. To form p-n junctions some of 

the cations will be replaced with transition metals and wires will be drop cast or 

grown on a glass substrate. The wires will be grown in solution because of some of 

the advantages of solution growth such as less internal strain. Two different cations 

will be part of the cation exchange these are Ag+, Pb2+. Each of the replacement 

cations will make different structural changes which will affect the photovoltaic and electric transport properties. 

These nanowire will be useful to the solar industry in that they are easy to produce and can be scaled up. They will 

help the environment by reducing the amount of coal burned and so reducing the yearly CO2 emissions. 

SEED DISPERSAL OF THE FOUR MOST ABUNDANT COMPILER ANT SPECIES IN THE TAHOE BASIN 

MANAGEMENT UNIT 

Sarah Restori 


Mentor: Matthew Forister 



Insects are a large proportion of diversity, but long-term data sets rarely exist for 

modeling the effects of forest management practices on insects and the organisms 

they coevolved with. Ants are ecosystem engineers and facilitate seed dispersal, 

water infiltration, and are major links in food webs. There is a long-term data set 

designed to elucidate management effects on ants, plants, small mammals, and 

birds in the Tahoe Basin in the Sierra Nevada. I am interested in the interaction of 

ants and plants, and their role in seed dispersal in disturbed land caused by human 

land use and the necessary forest management practices. 

TOWARD A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON RED FIR (ABIES 

MAGNIFICA) 

Elizabeth Robbe 


Mentor: Douglas Boyle 

Department: Environmental Science 

Marietta College 

Faculty in the Geography Department at UNR are working with the Great Basin 

Institute to develop a new climate change field station in the Galena Creek 

Watershed aimed at developing a better understanding of the impacts of future 

19

global climate change, which may affect variables including temperature and precipitation on water resources, 

vegetation, and many other ecological systems through a series of projects that include field 

monitoring/observation, remote sensing, and systems modeling. The focus of this pilot project has been on the 

establishment and survival patterns of red fir seedlings within this watershed. Future climate change may impact 

the distribution of the mature red fir stands due to seedlings sensitivity to environmental conditions including soil 

moisture, extreme soil temperatures and intense solar radiation (Chappell and Agree, 1996). These mature stands 

are important due to their influence of the snowpack and runoff within the watershed (Gordon, 1970). In order to 

acquire a better understanding of the relationship of high elevation red fir and these environmental conditions, 

the favored conditions must first be determined. My role was to assist in the sampling of red fir plots throughout 

the watershed looking for seedling success in varying microclimates. Several iButtons have been placed 

throughout the watershed to record air temperature and soil temperature. Volumetric water content (VWC) has 

also been recorded using a TDR moisture probe. Ten mobile meteorological (MET) stations will soon be placed 

throughout Galena Creek to record solar radiation, air temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind speed and 

direction. Data collected from the red fir plots and MET stations can be used to characterize the larger scale 

climate and help with snowpack predictions and hydrologic modeling. 

KSHV ENCODED LANA RECRUITS ANTI-APOPTOTIC PROTEIN, BCL-2 TO PROMOTE CELL GROWTH 

Ruth Salas 





Kaposi’s sarcoma associated herpesvirus (KSHV) also called Human Herpesvirus 8 

(HHV8) is is the caustive agent of Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) primary effusion 

lymphomas (PELs) and multicentric castleman’s disease (MCDs). KSHV causes 

significant mortality in infected individuals by inducing body cavity based 

lymphomas in immuno-compromised individuals. Introduction of HAART, in HIV- 

AIDS patients, have significantly reduced the risk of KSHV induced tumors but these 

tumors are still a major problem in immune deficient people. KSHV like other 

herpesviruses establishes life long latent infection with the expression of limited genes. Latency Associated 

Nuclear Antigen (LANA) is predominantly detected protein in almost all the infected cells. LANA is important for 

inducing tumorigenesis and has been shown to degrade the tumor suppressor genes, p53 and pRB to promote cell 

growth. KSHV encodes cellular homolog of Bcl-2 termed as KS-Bcl-2. Viral Bcl-2 (KS-Bcl-2) has limited homology to 

the cellular counterparts but has been shown to protect various cell types from apoptosis mediated by the 

expression of apoptosis inducing genes, BAX, Bim. However, the roles of LANA in recruiting KS-Bcl-2 for KSHV 

infected cells were not understood. Scanning of LANA secondary structure for potential motifs found a Bcl-2 

binding domain in the amino terminal domain, between amino acids 275-303, of LANA. We generated a LANA 

mutant deleted for the Bcl-2 binding domain by PCR mutagenesis. The sequencing data confirmed deletion of 

275-303aa, the Bcl-2 binding domain in LANA. We determined the binding of KS-Bcl-2 in a coimmunoprecipitation 

assay by transfecting the KS-Bcl-2 with LANA in human cells. The Bcl-2 deletion mutant of 

LANA failed to bind to KS-Bcl2 confirming the recruitment of Bcl-2 by the LANA amino acids 275-303. The 

recruitment of Bcl-2 by LANA may help in preventing apoptosis thus promotes cell growth. 

20

CONTRALATERAL MIGRATION OF OCULOMOTOR NEURONS IS REGULATED BY SLIT/ROBO SIGNALS 

Christine Schlemmer 


Mentor: Grant Mastick 



The oculomotor nuclei, located in the ventral embryonic midbrain, are comprised 

of neurons that innervate the ipsilateral extraocular muscles, and the contralateral 

dorsal rectus muscle. Correct innervation of the extraocular muscles is required to 

align the eyes for binocular vision. All oculomotor axons initially extend from the 

neural tube on the ventral aspect of the cephalic flexure to ipsilateral muscle 

targets. However, a subset of the neurons that innervate the dorsal rectus muscle 

later undertake a unique translocation of their cell bodies across the midline, 

integrating into the contralateral nucleus. We aim to test the role of midline guidance cues in controlling the 

contralateral migration. Slit1 and 2 are diffusible axon guidance cues expressed at the ventral midline. Robo 1 and 

Robo 2 are known receptors for Slit, and axons expressing these receptors are repelled away from the 

midline. Previous research shows that Slit/Robo signaling plays a role in neural cell positioning and migration 

during embryonic development. In Slit mutant mice, the oculomotor nuclei have abnormalities in the axon-like 

projections through the midline, and were found to migrate across the midline prematurely at embryonic day 11. 

Normal migration occurs during embryonic days 13-15. We are testing the hypothesis that oculomotor neurons 

express Robo 1 and Robo2, and that these repellent receptors act to maintain the ipsilateral position of 

oculomotor neurons prior to E13. To characterize Robo expression during migration, cryostat sections were taken 

coronal to the cephalic flexure through the oculomotor nuclei. The oculomotor nucleus was identified using 

immunoflouresence for Islet-1, a transcription factor specific for motor neurons. We found Robo 2 co-labels with 

Islet-1 prior to migration. Our results suggest that Slit 2 repulsion initially suppresses axonal growth into the 

midline, restricting cell bodies to the ipsilateral nucleus. Suppression of Slit/Robo signaling allows for migration to 

the contralateral nucleus. 

PURIFICATION OF PDS5 C-TERMINAL PEPTIDE AND EXPRESSION OF RFP-PDS5 IN DROSPHILA 

MELANOGASTER 

Alexander Shaft 


Mentor: Chi-Yun Pai 



Pds5 is a nuclear protein that participates in sister chromatid condensation and 

cohesion by interacting with the cohesin complex and possibly functioning as a 

scaffold for other proteins. We have previously obtained genetic evidence that 

Pds5 regulates transcription by interacting with chromatin insulators. In order to 

better understand the role of Pds5 in transcription, we expressed His-tagged Pds5 

in bacteria for antibody production, and fluorescent Pds5 in Drosophila 

melanogaster to study the dynamic movement of the protein. To express 6xHis- 

Pds5 in bacteria, a full-length or a truncated cDNA was introduced into E. coli. Purification of Pds5 was 

successfully accomplished using detergents and SDS-PAGE. This purified Pds5 C-terminal peptide will be used for 

the production of antibodies. For generating Pds5 transgenic flies, the full length Pds5 gene was cloned into P- 

21

element vectors and fused with a GFP or a RFP tag. Multiple lines of transgenic flies have been obtained. In 6 of 

these lines, Pds5-RFP was observed in the nucleus of interphase cells, associated with chromosomes. These 

generated materials will contribute to our understanding of Pds5 in transcriptional regulation, and more broadly, 

in epigenetic regulation. The results will assist in the future development of more effective treatments for many 

genetic disorders. 

DEGREES OF DISRUPTION: IMPACT OF TEMPERATURE INCREASE ON A TROPICAL ECTOTHERM 

Eleanor Su 

Mentors: Jeanne Zeh, David Zeh 



While the plight of polar bears and penguins in a rapidly warming world is much 

publicized and widely appreciated, recent theory suggests that the organisms likely 

to be most at risk from rising temperatures are invertebrates and reptiles 

inhabiting the tropics. In such ectothermic species, metabolic rate increases 

exponentially with ambient temperature, and a small temperature increase in a 

hot environment therefore has a much larger physiological impact than does a 

large temperature increase in a cold environment. To investigate the life history 

consequences of elevated temperature for a Neotropical, live-bearing ectotherm, 

we conducted a split-brood experiment on the pseudoscorpion, Cordylochernes scorpioides, in which 24 offspring 

from each of 33 females were randomly assigned to control and high-temperature treatments from birth through 

the adult stage. The control-treatment temperature was determined from average daily temperature minima and 

maxima records for Barro Colorado Island, Panamá. Climate warming effects were simulated in the hightemperature 

treatment by increasing the temperature 3.5 0C above the control. This relatively modest 

temperature increase, which is predicted for the Tropics by the end of the century, exerted profound effects on 

developmental rate, morphology and reproductive traits. A highly significant reduction in developmental time for 

both males and females was achieved at the cost of significantly reduced size for all measured traits in both sexes. 

Size reduction was particularly evident in male fighting appendages (pincers), resulting in a dramatic decrease in 

level of sexual dimorphism in the high-temperature treatment. The most striking effects, however, involved 

reproductive traits. Reared under high temperature conditions, males produced only 37% as many sperm as 

control males, while female fecundity and reproductive success were reduced to essentially zero. Since most 

animal species are, in fact, tropical arthropods, our findings suggest that continued climate warming may have 

devastating consequences for global biodiversity. 

THEORY, DESIGN, AND POTENTIAL COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS OF 

MICROCONTROLLER-BASED PHOTOACOUSTIC TRACE GAS AND AEROSOL SENSORS 

Benjamin Sumlin 

Program: NASA EPSCoR 

Mentors: Pat Arnott, Hans Moosmuller, Guoxun Tian 



The photoacoustic effect can be used to determine light absorption by gases or 

aerosol samples to determine their concentration. Multiple-wavelength, 

laboratory-based resonant photoacoustic instruments have been used for analysis 

of aerosol samples with great success. However, the size, weight, and cost of 

22

such a device are often significant obstacles for industrial implementation as on-board feedback sensors for 

engine control and as personal monitors for pollutants in the workplace. Our compact solution utilizes a singlewavelength 

OEM laser modulated by a microcontroller, either an Arduino UNO or the Coridium SuperPRO. The 

same microcontroller is responsible for performing the lock-in algorithm needed to recover and amplify 

photoacoustic signals in the presence of ambient noise as well as performing a fast Fourier transform to analyze 

the spectra from the detectors. The resonant cavity is replaced by a small chamber equipped with a single 

microphone for detecting acoustic signals and a phototransistor for obtaining the laser power for calibration 

purposes. In our work, we present our approach to a single-wavelength, microcontroller-based non-resonant 

photoacoustic device suitable for aerosol analysis outside the laboratory, as well as for integration into consumer 

technology such as diesel engines. Industrial applications are considered as well, such as real-time air quality 

analysis for locations such as Nevada underground gold mineshafts; public transportation vehicle emissions 

monitor; flaming stage smoke detectors; and as battery operated detectors of the vertical distribution of trace 

gases and black carbon using tethered balloons and meteorological aircraft. 

CATALYTIC DEPOLYMERIZATION OF CELLULOSE OVER SUPPORTED GOLD CATALYSTS FOR BIOFUEL 

PRODUCTION 

Morgan Vonnahme 


Mentor: Hongfei Lin 

Department: Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering 


A method has been proposed to mimic the process of the oxidative cleavage of cell 

wall polysaccharides in a growing plant cell in nature. The aforementioned method 

will focus on the catalytic depolymerization of cellulose in liquid water with air as 

the oxidant over supported nano-Au catalysts; aiming to develop a sustainable, 

environmentally benign alternative process for biofuel production. 

RESPONSES OF SOIL MICROORGANISMS TO HERBICIDE AND COMPOST EXTRACT TREATMENTS 

Celina Weeg 


Mentor: Glenn Miller 

Department: Forestry and Wildland Resources 

Humboldt State University 

A functioning microbial food web in soil facilitates nutrient availability to 

vegetation through the mineralization of cellular material and break down of plant 

life when it dies. The soil food web consists of many organisms cycling nutrients by 

consuming other organisms, growing, and respiring. Herbicide use to control 

invasive weeds has been suggested to have adverse effects on the composition of 

these microorganisms, which may result in inhibited nutrient cycling, lower 

biodiversity in the soil, and lower soil respiration. Using compost teas and extracts 

in conjunction with herbicides could be a means of mitigating these effects by adding more microorganisms to 

fulfill the important functions necessary for nutrient cycling and soil health. For this experiment, soil samples were 

treated with eight different combinations of compost extract, humic acids, and two different herbicides. 

Respiration rates were measured as an index of abundance and activity of soil organisms. Diversity among the 

23

organisms was observed using direct microscopy to see what functional groups were present during a four week 

period. We hypothesize that soils treated with compost extract and herbicide will have respiration rates and 

diversity that are higher than the soils treated with just herbicide. The experiments have not been finalized at the 

time this abstract was written, but results to date show an increased level of respiration in the samples in which 

compost extract or herbicide or both were added. Little difference has been observed in microbial diversity 

among the different treatments. 

HOW DOES CONSERVATION INFORMATION CHANGE RESIDENTIAL WATER USE 

Erika White 


Mentors: Kim Rollins, Shawn Stoddard 

Department: Resource Economics 

Western State College of Colorado 

The Truckee Meadow Water Authority (TMWA) is a not-for-profit, communityowned 

utility that services Reno and Sparks, Nevada. Various state laws, local 

ordinances, and operating agreements mandate that TMWA operate a water 

conservation program to help protect the natural resources within this region. 

While the conservation program, the Water Watchers, has been in existence since 

TMWA was formed in 2001, there has yet to be a quantitative evaluation of the 

effect of this program on water demand, let alone an evaluation of the benefits 

versus the costs. Literature reveals that in fact, very few quantitative evaluations have been conducted that 

determine the effects that water conservation programs have on individual water use behavior. Our study sought 

to answer: how does the Water Watchers program influence the quantity of water demanded by individual 

households in the region In answering this question, we will help to establish the value of this program to 

TMWA and its residential customers. The analysis intends to provide information for TMWA to use in deciding 

whether changes should be made to the program. Regression methods are used to determine whether 

households tend to change their behavior after having contact with the Water Watchers program, and to 

determine what factors affect the amount of water conserved as a function of household size, irrigated landscape, 

income, weather, type/purpose of Water Watcher’s contact and other factors. We created a behavioral model, 

with data collected by Water Watchers, as well as TMWA’s extensive records of water usage, billing records, and 

weather data. We include data from the county assessor’s office on the size of houses, lots, and home value to 

proxy household size, income and the amount of irrigated landscape. The panel data include the years from 2003 

through 2011, and are limited to residential single-family units. Our results are pending. 

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WHY UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH 

Develop Skills to Conduct Research: 

The job market is continuously evolving and the rate of evolution is fast because of the rapid 

development of new technologies. The job market is also highly competitive as employers try to 

be efficient and do more with less. An adaptable work force gives employers an edge and hence 

the ability to adapt is a requirement and no longer a luxury. Furthermore, effective 

communication skills are now essential in nearly all fields of practice. Undergraduate research 

teaches students the process of developing creative ideas, formulating and executing research 

and presenting the outcome. The skills learned through undergraduate research enable the 

college graduate to develop and adapt to new ideas and pursue them in a systematic way. The 

ability to communicate, both in written and verbal form, enhances the overall effectiveness of 

the individual and makes her/him a success. 

Develop and Produce New Knowledge: 

One of the major roles of universities is to create and investigate new ideas. Undergraduate 

students can be an important part of teams that that often involve graduate students and 

research associates, all operating under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Because of their fresh 

and unbiased look at new ideas, undergraduate students often strengthen the research team 

and can positively affect the direction of research. 

To Motivate Talented Students and Recruit Them to Graduate School: 

Many highly capable students do not pursue graduate degrees, frequently because of a lack of 

understanding about the possibilities that graduate education offer both during school and 

following graduation. The perception that graduate education is hard, costly and not rewarding 

is commonly overcome by becoming involved in research as an undergraduate student. The 

satisfaction that comes from solving a problem or attempting a creative endeavor that has not 

previously been attempted can create a new perspective and potentially encourage students 

attending graduate school. 

Improve a Sense of Community and Group Dynamic: 

The exposure of many students to the university setting is often limited to attending classes and 

occasionally meeting with an advisor. Undergraduate research provides a mechanism for 

students to interact more closely and frequently with faculty mentors and other researchers on 

campus. The improved sense of belonging and accomplishment enriches the educational 

experience of the student and provides opportunities to explore potential career paths. 

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Student Research Programs - Office of Undergraduate and ...

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