Poster Papers

P1

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BULLYING AND THE BIG FIVE AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS Erin Shultz, Psychology Dept., Lycoming College
The current study extends previous research on bullying among children and adults.  Bullying was examined among college students to see whether it is correlated with personality, as measured by the Big Five Inventory.  Participants were 20 male and 20 female college students.  Participants were asked to complete the Big Five Inventory to determine personality (Benet-Martinez & John, 1998).  They also completed Olweus’s Bully/Victim Questionnaire (Olweus, 2003).  Statistical tests indicated that bullying in college students significantly correlated with extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness and bullying victimization.  Bullying positively correlated with extraversion and bullying victimization.  Bullying negatively correlated with agreeableness and conscientiousness. 

P2

THE EFFECTS OF COLLGE MAJORS ON PERCEPTION OF ATTRACTIVENESS: DO OUR COLLGE MAJORS MAKE US LOOK BETTER? Kellie Krause,Psychology Dept., Lycoming College.
Previous research has shown that high status jobs such as doctors or lawyers can increase the attractiveness ratings for males but not for females. The current study focused on high versus low prestige college majors and their effects on ratings of attractiveness.

P3
KINETICS INVESTIGATIONS OF SEA-NINE® 211 IN MARINE ANTIFOULING APPLICATIONS Yatko, Elizabeth, and Maria Schroeder, Chemistry Department, United States Naval Academy
The goal of this study was to determine the degradation kinetics of 4,5-dichloro-2-n-octyl-3-isothiazolone, the active ingredient of the marine antifoulant Sea-nine® 211, in order to determine its potential for application in elastomeric sonar domes used on U.S. Navy vessels.  Sea-nine has recently been used as an antifouling agent in paints, but has never been subject to the severe temperature and processing conditions needed to vulcanized rubber.  Preliminary investigations indicate that the activity of Sea-nine will be preserved throughout the vulcanization process and therefore be a viable option for Navy sonar domes, which is especially important in light of the recent ban on the tributyltin antifouling agents currently employed.  A full analysis and results of this study will be presented.

P4

MEANINGFULNESS AS A PREDICTOR OF ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE Jennifer Coons, Psychology Dept., Lycoming College
Meaningfulness is the process of fulfilling life goals and developing a purpose in life.  The first study examined the relationship between meaningfulness and alcohol abuse in 15 male and 22 female college students.  Participants received the Life Regard Index (Battista and Almond, 1973) and the Brief Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (Pokorny, Miller and Kaplan, 1972).  Findings suggested that there was no significant correlation between meaningfulness and alcohol dependency among students (r = -.16, p = .47).  The second study will continue to examine the same relationship, substituting the MAST-Geriatric version (Blow et. al, 1992) for the Brief MAST.  Greater significance between meaningfulness and alcohol dependency is hypothesized due to the appropriateness of the questions contained in the MAST-G. 

P5

THE ROLE OF VASOPRESSIN IN ANXIETY IN RATS Lombardi, Angela M, and Kori M. Ortt, Biology Dept., John Carroll University
Experiments were performed using an Elevated-Plus Maze paradigm to determine the relationship between vasopressin and anxiety. Vasopressin-containing (LE) and vasopressin-deficient (DI) rats were placed on the maze for 5 minutes and the time spent in the open and closed arms was recorded. The procedure was repeated one week later. Statistical tests indicated that there was an interaction between strain and trial. During the first minute in the initial trial, DI rats spent more time in the open arm than LE rats; whereas, LE rats spent more time in the open arm than DI rats during the first minute of the second trial. The results of this study indicate that vasopressin has a role in anxiety.

P6

VASOPRESSIN AND ANXIETY RESPONSES DURING SPATIAL LEARNING AND MEMORY Celmer, Meagan and Erin MacDougall, Psychology Dept., John Carroll University
The role of vasopressin (VP) in anxiety, time to goal, and disorientation were studied utilizing a Morris Water Maze. VP-containing, Long-Evans (LE) and VP-deficient, Brattleboro (DI) rats were trained to locate a hidden escape platform in the dark phase of the light/dark cycle. DI rats showed signs of anxiety, including squealing, squirming and a timid swim pattern which increased in intensity as trials continued. LE rats did not manifest this behavior. No differences in spatial learning or memory were observed in the two groups. Disorientation decreased as the maze was learned by all rats. The results of the present study support the hypothesis that VP modulates anxiety responses in rats.

P7

EVALUATION OF A TANGENTIAL FLOW FILTRATION SYSTEM FOR VIRUS RECOVERY Glen Ferguson,Donna Akin,and Raymond Kepner Jr., Biology Department, Marist College
The efficiency of a tangential flow filtration (TFF) system for virus recovery was tested on three separate occasions by spiking Hudson River water with known quantities of phiX174 coliphage.  Spiked samples and negative controls were concentrated to approximately 10 mL using a TFF system (Millipore Corporation).  Results were quantified by plaque assays.  Mean recovery efficiencies of 70, 44, and 18 % (experiments 1-3 respectively) were obtained at greatest sample concentrations (approx.×98).  Higher recoveries (86, 73, and 23 %) were obtained with system washes, but resulted in lower concentration factors (approx.×28).  Results show that although the tested system seems to be an effective method for viral concentration, there is a steady decline in the performance of the TFF filter cartridge over time.

P8

THE EFFECT OF LOCUS OF CONTROL ON RISK TAKING BEHAVIOR
Amy McGarvey, Psychology, Lycoming College
The current study examined the effect of locus of control on risk taking behavior.  Participants included thirty-three students from a liberal arts college in Pennsylvania.  All participants were given the Physical Risk Assessment Inventory (Llewellyn, 2003) and Rotter's Locus of Control Scale (Rotter, 1966).  It was hypothesized that people with external loci of control would rate behaviors as less risky than people with internal loci of control.  Results found that there were no significant correlations between the two variables.  Gender differences found slightly significant negative correlations for men (r = -0.22, p = 0.53) and women (r = 0.16, p = 0.48) and risk taking behavior.  Thus locus of control and risk taking behavior may be mediated by gender.

P9

AN INTERRELATIONSHIP BETWEEN VASOPRESSIN AND SUGAR ADDICTION Heinselman, Halsey and Caroline Salib, Psychology Dept., John Carroll University
The purpose of the experiment was to ascertain whether or not vasopressin plays a role in the development of sugar addiction. For four weeks, vasopressin-containing (LE) and vasopressin-deficient (DI) rats were provided with daily access to food for 12hrs and ad libitum access to water. During weeks two and four, animals had 12-hr access to 25% glucose in addition to food. Results indicated that during the fourth week of research there was a significantly greater consumption of glucose than in week two by both strains. However, DI rats consumed a significantly greater quantity of glucose during both weeks than LE rats. It is concluded that vasopressin plays a modulatory role in sugar addiction.

P10

TONGUE PIERCINGS AFFECTS ON SUCROSE SENSITIVITY
Lindsay C Fahey, Psychology Department, Lycoming College
Little scientific research has been done on tongue piercings and their effects on taste sensitivity.  However, much research has been done on the midline of the tongue, the area most commonly pierced due to a reduced number of blood vessels and nerves, and therefore the area in which piercing would cause less pain and swelling.  As the popularity of tongue piercing increases, the question of whether it causes changes in taste sensitivity becomes important for increasing numbers of people.  A past study by the present author demonstrated a significant increase in sensitivity to salty stimuli. The current study tested whether similar changes in sucrose sensitivity would occur. A signal detection task was used to answer this question.

P11

STEREOSCOPIC DEPTH PERCEPTION AS A FUNCTION OF NEGATIVE AFTERIMAGE DECAY Morgan, David A.; Psychology Dept.; Lycoming College
Stereoscopic depth perception as a function of negative afterimage decay was examined.  A tachistoscope was used to generate two simultaneous afterimages in one eye, while the other eye remained shuttered.  Observers then used both eyes to view two objects similar to those which produced the afterimages.  Those objects, however, were presented at a slightly greater distance from each other--also with a different hue and background--than the stimuli used to create the afterimages. Observers attempted to report the appearance of anaglyphic effects when viewing this combination of stimuli.  Changes in depth perception as a function of afterimage decay were plotted.                
 
P12

No title given. Erin Long, Lycoming College. Many health stores advertise the benefits of certain smells that can increase memory.  Research has been done on the effects of olfactory stimulation and memory retention.  The current study followed up a similar study in order to see if different amounts of olfactory stimulation could lead to more retention.  The task involved college students memorizing words with or without varying intensities of the olfactory stimulus present and then differentiating these words from a new set of words.

P13

A SEQUENCE ANALYSIS OF THE CHALCONE SYNTHASE GENE IN AFRICAN VIOLETS  Finocchio, Jacklyn,  Claire Arcidiacono and Michael Kotarski, Department of Biology, Niagara University
Genomic DNA was prepared from leaf tissue of Saintpaulia ionantha (African violet).  PCR was used to amplify a small region of the chalcone synthase gene and the sequence was compared to the published sequence of exon 2 of the gene from other plant species.  This sequence analysis is interpreted in light of the evolutionary relationship between Saintpaulia species and other plants.

P14

CLONING AND EXPRESSION OF THE HSV-1 GENE US9 Hosmer, Nicole D, and Geoffrey Church, Biology Dept., Wagner College
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) can infect the mouth and the genitals and can recur over a person’s lifetime.  Treatment of herpes is dependent upon further research into virus assembly. We have focused on the role the US9 protein might play in this assembly process. In order to study this protein we have isolated the us9 gene from viral genomic DNA via PCR, the gene was then cloned into the expression vector pGEX-KG. Following transformation into E.coli, expression of the US9 protein was induced in an effort to begin looking for binding partners. This poster explains the details of the cloning procedure and the justification for choosing US9 as a structural protein of interest.

P15

SYNTHESIS OF DIPHOSPONATES AND SULFONOPHOSPHONATES TO USE AS COMPONENTS FOR A PILLARED PROTON EXCHANGE MEMBRANE stephen j. raulli . chemistry department,u.s. naval academy, Lomax, Joseph F., D. F. Thomas
This synthesis project seeks to create an organic/inorganic hybrid material in order to produce a proton exchange membrane (PEM) that is stable at high temperatures (200° C).  In order to exploit temperature stability this study seeks to create a structure similar to an a-zirconium phosphate layered compound, which is stable at high temperatures, yet is a poor proton conductor.   Therefore, the strategy is to utilize the separate functions of diphosphonate and phosphonate sulfonate groups to create a structure with both high temperature stability and good proton conductivity.  The major synthetic challege is making the diphosphonates used as pillaring groups to stabilize the layered structure, and the phosphonate/sulfonate compound to provide proton lability.       

P16

SYNTHESIS OF A ELEVATED TEMPERATURE STABLE HYBRID PROTON CONDUCTOR thomas, drew f. chemistry department,u.s. naval academy, Lomax, Joseph F., Stephen J. Raulli.
This synthesis project seeks to create an organic/inorganic hybrid material in order to create a proton exchange membrane (PEM) that is stable at high temperatures (200° C).  In order to exploit temperature stability this study seeks to create a structure similar to an a-zirconium phosphate layered compound; highly temperature stable yet is a poor proton conductor.  Therefore, we introduce interlayer distance with organic pillars attached to zirconium via phosphonate-terminating molecules, alternated with open sulfonate end molecules creating a microporous proton conductor.  By reacting these groups with zirconium we produce an organically pillared inorganic layered structure.  We have synthesized pillaring group with different lengths so that the final material regulates interlayer distance and creates high temperature stability and superior proton conduction.

P17

EFFECT OF WATER INTAKE ON THE INCIDENCE OF ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS - A CASE STUDY. Vachon, Chris. Biology Department, Sacred Heart University
During travel to high-altitude, individuals are at risk for several types of altitude illness.  The most prevalent altitude illness is Acute Mountain Sickness, commonly known as AMS.  Little is known about the effect of water intake upon the incidence of AMS.  The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of varying levels of water intake upon the incidence of AMS.  A version of the Lake Louise AMS Questionnaire was used to determine the level of AMS and pulse-oximetry was used to determine the blood oxygen saturation (%SaO2) and pulse of five subjects at seven different altitudes ranging from 7800 feet to 20,320 feet above sea level during an expedition to the summit of Mt. McKinley in June 2003.

P18

SOCIALIZATON PATTERNS AND TEACHING PRACTICES IN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC PRESCHOOLS AS PERCEIVED BY UNITED STATES PRESCHOOL PERSONNEL Keri Walczynski; Judith Pena-Shaff, & Hugh Stephenson; Psychology Dept.; Ithaca College
This study aims to examine socialization patterns of preschoolers in the Dominican Republic (DR).  Daily activities were video-recorded in three DR preschools.  DR teachers observed these videos to crosscheck their accuracy of typical school practices.  An edited video summary of one preschool was viewed by US preschool personnel.  Perceptions and insight regarding the DR preschool practices were recorded.  Preliminary results indicate that preschool practices between the two countries are similar.  However, differences exist regarding teachers' roles, structure of activities, emphasis of children's behaviors, and lack of activities that enhance creativity and independence.  Also, we discovered that observing preschool practices from another country increased cultural awareness and understanding of the role of culture in socialization.

P19

SYNTHESIS OF ANTIVIRAL NUCLEOTIDE ANALOGUES USING DIPHOSPHONATES Fleischmann, David T. and Dillner, Debra. Chemistry Department, United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD
This study involves preparing diphosphonate nucleotide analogues as possible antiviral agents.  Potentially, incorporation of these specific molecules into new viral genetic material will lead to unstable or nonfunctional viral RNA or DNA.  To develop compounds whose conformational isomers will be similar to those of natural nucleotides, computer modeling has been performed.  A symmetrical arrangement of two phosphonate functional groups will potentially place one phosphonate in an active site of DNA/RNA polymerase, while another phosphonate rests outside the active site.  The target compounds are being prepared from simple dihalides such as 1,3-dibromo-2-propanol.  After completing their synthesis, the compounds will be tested for antiviral activity. 

P20

HISTOCHEMISTRY OF RAT AORTA SUGGESTS ACTIVATION OF PDE4D IN BALLOON ANGIOPLASTY Jeanmarie Silverman, Marisa Santikul and Charlene Hoegler (Faculty Advisor) Biology Dept., Pace University Pleasantville
Balloon angioplasty (BAL) is a clinical procedure used to open and unclog arteries. Our research used male rats as models to determine whether BAL in thoracic aorta  influenced an enzyme associated with arterial remodeling. One such enzyme, PDE4D is thought to be up-regulated when healing and vascular remodeling occur. Samples of aortic rings were harvested at 24 hours, 7 days and 14 days. After rings were fixed and sectioned using standard histology, tissue slices were probed with the antibody to the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 4D (PDE4D). Results indicate that PDE4D levels increased in what appeared to be the tunica intima and media, suggesting that these smooth muscle cells were responding to blood vessel injury and healing.
 

P21

DIFFUSION OF ALKALI METAL AND HALIDE IONS UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES USING MD SIMULATIONS Christin E. Palombo and Barbara J. Garrison, Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University
Mass spectrometry techniques hinge upon the diffusion of ions in high temperature and pressure environments.  Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations can serve as an intuitive copy of such systems to enable better intellectual understanding of phenomena in chemical systems and to stimulate technological improvements in analytical techniques.  Alkali metal and halide ions are studied in solution as temperature and pressure increases.  Two types of calculations are performed: one in which the volume is varied while pressure is kept constant and another in which pressure is varied while volume remains constant.  In both sets, the temperature and number of particles do not change during the course of the calculation.

P22

IDENTIFICATION OF FLAGELLAR PROTEINS IN CHLAMYDOMONAS REINHARDTII.  Roshan Karki, S. Chettri, and K. Dragon. Department of Biology, Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic, CT 06226, USA
Eukaryotic flagella are complex structures made up of more than 300 proteins arranged in a complex repeating pattern. These whip like structures project out of cell surface and are found in almost all plants and animals, including Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Flagella can be isolated from the cell body with acid base treatment (pH shock) and readily obtained by differential centrifugation. Flagellar proteins of pre and post mating cells can be identified by labeling the cells with radioactive sulfur (S35) and studied under autoradiogram. Results show that while there is little protein turnover in gametes, deflagellation triggers protein synthesis. The dikaryons (zygotes) of the wild type cells show new flagellar proteins distinct from their parents.

P23

WHO PAYS MORE ATTENTION TO COLOR?: DIFFERENCES OF SEX USING THE STROOP COLOR TASK Brian Swaldi, Psychology Dept., Lycoming College
Sex and unusual color words (words outside ROY G. BV) were [are] examined as factors affecting interference on the Stroop color-word task.  It was [is] hypothesized that women would [will] experience more emotional arousal at the sight of the unusual color word names.  Sixty psychology undergraduates [participants], 30 males and 30 females, [who were all at a small liberal arts college in Northeastern, Pennsylvania] took part in the current study.  [Interesting results were found.]  Implications of the findings could affect how test questions are worded.

P24

CLOTHING FABRICS AS POLLEN TRAPS Miller, Melissa A, Stephanie M. McGraw, and Michael S. Zavada, Department of Biology, Providence College
The purpose of this investigation was to determine if clothing fabrics act as pollen traps, and if different fabrics vary with regard to the abundance, and type of pollen trapped. Five fabrics were used to trap pollen, cotton, wool, polyester, silk and linen. These five fabrics represent the five leading selling fabrics in the United States. The pollen collecting apparatus was constructed of a 30 cm in diameter (a total area of 706.5 sq cm) circular needlepoint hoop, that vertically rotated freely, and was mounted on a 2 m x 3 cm dowel that was driven into the soil to breast height (1-1.25 m above ground level). Five pollen collectors, each with one of the five fabrics were placed at a collection site in rural, suburban, and urban Rhode Island for a 24 h period at weekly or biweekly intervals throughout 2002-2003. Pollen was washed from each of the fabrics using a specific volume of distilled filtered water, and 2-4 ml of Tween 80. Pollen was then acetolyzed. Total pollen removed from each of the fabric types was estimated using a haemocytometer. The pollen types were identified, and 200 grain counts were done to determine the relative abundance of the various pollen types recovered from the fabrics. All of the fabric types (cotton, wool, polyester, silk, and linen) trap pollen at the same rate, and the same pollen types in each of the three habitats (rural, suburban, and urban), and are qualitatively and quantitatively comparable to the local pollen calendar. There are statistical differences among the relative abundance of pollen types from the three habitats. The importance of this study is discussed with regard to allergies, and its application to forensic palynology.

P26

BACTERIOPHAGE THERAPY FOR THE SKIN DISEASE ACNE Geronimo, Jesselyn, Lesley Peretto, Isaac Fernandes, Allison Dull, Amanda Augeri, Jennifer Swinsick, Bekim Bajrami, Dennis Rau, Melissa Hebert, Lisa Murray, Alexander Armento, and Michael Davis. Department of Biological Sciences, Central Connecticut State University.
The application of common antibiotic chemicals has been significantly compromised by the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacterial populations. We are investigating the use of bacteriophage for the treatment of the bacterial disease acne. We have isolated a large collection of subtypes of Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria involved in human acne, along with a number of phage isolates which grow on (and kill) these bacteria. Using our two collections, we are determining the specific host range of our phage within our P acnes bacterial collection. We have begun the genetic manipulation of these phage, seeking to increase the virulence of their interaction with their host bacteria.

P27

GENOMIC DNA FROM AFRICAN VIOLET LEAF TISSUE Arcidiacono, Claire and Michael A. Kotarski, Department of Biology, Niagara University
Experiments were done to develop a procedure for the isolation of genomic DNA from leaf tissue of African violets, Saintpaulia ionantha.  DNA was isolated using two similar yet different techniques.  They differed in their use of DNAzol or guanidium thiocyanate, centrifugation speed and the handling of an extraction from a chloroform interface.  The amount and quality of the DNA was assessed by agarose gel electrophoresis.  The results indicate that while both procedures produced DNA, the guanidium thiocyanate was more effective.  Centrifugation speed to recover the DNA did not significantly affect the yield and more DNA is obtained by extraction near the chloroform interface.

P28

CU(II) AND NI(II) COMPLEXES OF NOVEL AMINOTHIOPHENE LIGANDS Cardillo, Nicholas,JudithAnn R. Hartman. Department of Chemistry, United States Naval Academy
Previous work with linear aminopyridyl ligands has shown that linked chelating rings confer many of the same properties on metal ions as macrocyclic ligands. We are extending this work to aminothiophene ligands in order to study the binding properties of thiophene groups.  The syntheses of a series of ligands containing varying numbers of amino groups and patterns of 5- and 6-membered chelating rings will be discussed.  The syntheses of their Cu(II) and Ni(II)complexes as well as the characterization of the complexes [Cu(DIPNEN-thio)](ClO4)2 and [Ni(DIPNEN-thio)](ClO4)2 by elemental analysis,UV/VIS and IR spectroscopy, magnetic susceptibility and electrochemistry will also be summarized.  The ligand DIPNEN-thio is 1,15-bis(2-thiophene)-2,6,10,14-tetraazapentadecane.

P29

DETERMINATION OF POOL SIZE IN FLAGELLA REGULATION Shweta Chhetri,Kym Dragon,and Roshan Karki,Biology Dept.,Eastern Connecticut State University
Flagella are long, whip-like structures that project from cells, providing movement. Biflagellated algae of the genus Chlamydomonas provide an outstanding model system for study of assembly, composition, function and regeneration of the flagellar apparatus. In this study, Chlamydomonas cells are deflagellated, and the rate of reflagellation when exposed to cyclohexamide is compared to a control group. Results were that cells under normal conditions grew out to full length, while cells in the presence of cyclohexamide regrew to half their normal length. We will also be determining the rate of reflagellation in the long and short flagella mutants with and without using cyclohexamide.

P30

VEGETATION CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ARIZONA DESERT: COMPARISONOF 29 PLOTS. Matthew Domser, Manhattan College.

Deserts are characterized by sparse vegetation that is usually limited by soil moisture so plant density is usually low and plant spacing characteristics are important to the structure of the ecosystem. The purpose of this study was to determine the diversity of vegetation within 29 plots of the Arizona Upland Province of the Sonoran Desert, Arizona. The mean plant population density was 0.076 plants m-2. For each plot and for each species, data analysis indicates an aggregated dispersion pattern and Simpson indices for the plots ranged from 0.62 to 0.86. Even though the study area had 14 paired, contiguous plots, Shannon indices indicated statistically significant difference between all plot pairs. Such data show that even contiguous plots have a wide diversity differences. Nearest neighbor analysis showed that creosote bushes avoided ironwood trees and a cactus species, Cylindropuntia acanthacarpa.  Saguaro cacti had a negative association with ironwood trees, paloverde trees and Cylindropuntia acanthacarpus compared to overall plot area.

P31

STUDY OF POPULATION DENSITY AND SETTLEMENT OF ZEBRA MUSSELS AT TWO LOCATIONS ON HUDSON RIVER, NY. Persaud, Nirvani D. and Thomas R. Lynch, Environmental Science and Policy Department, Marist College.
Anecdotal evidence of a considerable difference in the settlement rate of zebra mussels at two different locations on the Hudson River prompted this investigation. Field sampling in early July and early October confirmed the existence of major density differences. Several hypotheses were developed which include a possible intolerance to high levels of salinity, mortality in zebra mussel populations due to low levels of dissolved oxygen, lack of food supply for the downstream mussel population, low calcium levels for their shell formation, and differences in veliger density and size. Weekly monitoring of the two sites was conducted throughout the period of mid June to early October. The numerous hypotheses were rejected and the cause of the density differences in still unknown.

P32

HIBERNATION PATTERNS OF LOCAL BATS Ingarra, Jenny, Biology Dept., Sacred Heart University
Our research focused on determining whether bats hibernating in Connecticut follow similar arousal patterns as observed for bats at other localities.  We sampled at Roxbury Mine, a hibernaculum located in Roxbury, Connecticut, during fall 2002 (October 5) through spring 2003 (May 6).  Four bat species occur at Roxbury mine, including Myotis lucifugus, Myotis septentrionalis, Eptesicus fuscus and Pipistrellus subflavus.  A harp trap was set at the mine entrance once per week to monitor activity. A total of 82 bats, representing 3 species, was captured.  In fall, bats were captured until 15 November.  Activity dropped to zero past this date and continued at zero until the first spring activity occurred on 21 March.  These preliminary data will be presented, but seem to suggest that hibernating bats at the Roxbury Mine do not arouse from hibernation as often as individuals in other studies. 

P33

SYNTHESIS AND EVALUATION OF A MITOCHONDRIALLY TARGETED ANTIOXIDANT
Erin Grosstephan, Henry Schierembergg, Michael Haaf, and James Connor
Chemistry Department, Ithaca College
As the energy production centers of the cell, mitochondria harness a potentially dangerous flow of electrons to produce ATP.  Highly reactive free radicals, also known as reactive oxygen species, can be formed, causing serious damage to the mitochondria and potentially to the rest of the cell.  Thus, a major objective of this research involves the synthesis of TPPB, a structurally modified version of the naturally occurring antioxidant Vitamin E.  Due to its cationic, lipophilic side-chain, TPPB accumulates in mitochondria of living cells and thus, represents a promising antioxidant that has the potential to offer protection against oxidative damage where it is most needed.  The synthesis and preliminary evaluation of its effectiveness as a neuroprotective agent will be discussed.

P34

OPTHALMECTOMY AND ITS LONG-TERM EFFECT ON METAMORPHOSIS IN RANA PIPIENS Noyes, Arielle G, Biology Department, Elms College
Melatonin is a hormone produced in the retina, among other places. Melatonin has been shown to antagonize T4 which promotes metamorphosis. Previous short-term experiments where opthalmectomy was performed showed decreases in plasma melatonin. This long-term experiment was designed to determine if other sources would compensate for melatonin not secreted by the retina, and if metamorphosis rate would be affected in eyeless tadpoles since a reduction in plasma melatonin means a reduction in antagonism of  T4.  No significant difference was found in the rate of metamorphosis between control and experimental groups. There was no significant difference in tadpole size, or plasma melatonin levels. This suggests that other sources compensate for melatonin secreted by the retina over a long period of time.

P35

WHEN FEELING WRONG HELPS MAKE THINGS RIGHT: REGULATORY NONFIT AND CORRECTION OF JUDGMENTS O'Rourke, Thomas, Sandra Schwartz, and Leigh Ann Vaughn, Psychology Department, Ithaca College
People experience regulatory fit when they engage in a strategy of goal pursuit that fits their current regulatory focus (Higgins, 2000).  This experiment tested the hypothesis that feelings of wrongness from regulatory nonfit can motivate correction of judgments.  Participants (n = 97) received a regulatory focus prime, then were told to use either a fitting or nonfitting strategy on a subsequent task. Compared with individuals experiencing regulatory fit, those experiencing nonfit corrected later Midwestern weather judgments more for tropical weather primes.  It appears that participants attributed their experience of regulatory nonfit to the presence of bias, which motivated correction of judgments. 

P36

EFFECTS OF AGE, GENDER, AND BRAIN ACTIVITY ON THE HUMAN DIVING BRADYCARDIA RESPONSE Sutherland, Jeanette and Carl S. Hoegler (faculty advisor). Dept. of Biology, Marymount College of Fordham University, Tarrytown, NY
The diving bradycardia response which occurs when the face is immersed in water involves a slowing of heart rate and decreased blood flow to the limbs. Our previously reported studies suggest that brain activity can modify the bradycardia response. These preliminary results indicate that mathematical calculation and listening to music attenuate diving bradycardia for the duration of the first fifteen seconds of immersion. In the present study, we examined other variables including gender and age. All subjects listened to two different genre of music and were given a mathematical problem to solve during facial immersion. Subjects were given questionnaires prior and after the immersion.

P37

CHIRAL AUXILIARIES FOR THE RESOLUTION OF RACEMIC MIXTURES Heath Salvati, Elizabeth Reed, and Neil Glagovich, Department of Chemistry, Central Connecticut State University
The separation of enantiomers remains one of the biggest challenges facing the synthetic organic chemist. This study will focus on the use of chiral amines and chiral diols that can react with racemic mixtures of compounds containing the aldehyde and ketone functionalities to form diastereomeric imines and acetals. The diastereomeric mixtures can be separated either by column chromatography or differential recrystallization. Treatment of the resolved imines and acetals with aqueous acid will cleave the auxiliary to yield the enantiomerically pure aldehyde or ketone. The auxiliaries can be recycled for further use.

P38

ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MEDIA LITERACY ON HEALTH ATTITUDES AND NUTRITIONAL KNOWLEDGE IN GRADES K-1 Nicole Gagnon and Angela Tennis, Psychology Dept., Ithaca College
This study tested the effectiveness of a media literacy unit about media and nutrition designed for elementary students.  Qualitative and quantitative data were gathered to assess the kindergarten and first grade students' knowledge of the food pyramid, the contents of a complete breakfast and "tricks" used to sell products in commercials. Using a pre-test and post-test design we were able to assess students' increased media and nutritional knowledge. These scores were then compared to a group of similar students who had not participated in the curriculum. Data were also collected from teacher and parent reactions and researcher observations. The data collected shows that this curriculum is extremely effective in improving students' knowledge and succeeds in meeting the needs of teachers.

P39

FROM ATHEISM TO ZEN: AN EXPLORATION OF RELIGIOSITY, SPIRITUALITY AND IDENTITY AS RELATED TO LEVELS OF ANXIETY Megan Heeder, Cara Tintle, Caitlin Burnett, and Kyle Daley, Psychology Department, Ithaca College
Religion is a significant component of identity. However, religion is frequently construed exclusively as Christianity. Moreover, research on the relationships among religiosity, spirituality and well-being has shown mixed results, perhaps because religiosity and spirituality are frequently confounded. The purpose of the study was to clarify how religiosity, spirituality, and anxiety were related to identity by measuring religiosity and spirituality as separate constructs. We expected differences between the two in how they relate to identity and anxiety. One-hundred-fifty students completed measures of religiosity, spirituality, anxiety, and identity style. Although religiosity and spirituality were positively correlated, each showed distinct relationships with identity style and anxiety. Overall, students who reported less anxiety and more spirituality were those who had made identity commitments.

P40

“YOU'RE A GREAT KID" EFFECTS ON COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE: PEER VS. AUTHORITY DIFFERENCES FOR KINDERGARTEN BOYS AND GIRLS Van De Wal, Erica L., Raeanne Lacatena, Erin Lindenbaum, Nancy Rader, and Research Team 04, Psychology Dept., Ithaca College
To investigate how personal praise affects cognition, 92 kindergarten participants solved a series of puzzles after receiving or not receiving praise from an authority or peer.  The dependent variable was an efficiency score, defined as the total number of puzzle pieces placed correctly, divided by the total time spent working on the puzzles.  It was hypothesized that girls, but not boys, would respond less favorably to peer praise as compared to authority praise.  An analysis of variance found an interaction between gender, speaker status, and the presence of praise.  When praised by an authority, girls performed better than when praised by a peer, (p<.05), while for boys these two conditions did not differ.   

P41

IDENTIFICATION OF ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE IN STAPHYLOCOCCUS ISOLATED FROM THE NASAL PASSAGES OF WHITETAIL DEER IN WESTERN NEW YORK STATE Estoff, Elizabeth L, Greg Canfield, and Dr. Mark Gallo, Biology Department, Niagara University
Antibiotic resistance is a severe problem in the world today.  It has been determined that certain strains of bacteria are able to resist the action of common antibiotics.  Over-prescription of antibiotics has caused a selection for resistant bacteria.  Patients infected with antibiotic resistant bacteria are left with fewer treatment options.  This has led to an investigation of the causes of the spread of resistance as well as the origins and distribution of the resistant bacteria.  During this study, approximately 50 whitetail deer from Western New York were tested for antibiotic resistant bacteria in nasal passages.  Antibiotic resistance was assessed by ability to grow on gradient plates containing antibiotics.  Polymerase chain reaction was also performed to detect known antibiotic resistance genes.

P42

THE EFFECTS OF NUTRIENT FLUSHING ON LEAF DEVELOPMENT Iram Khan and Jack Tessier, Biology Dept., Central Connecticut State University
Nutrient flushing may act as a signal for plants to promote leaf development.  We decided to test this theory using Peperomia japonica plants.  We arranged the nine plants in a Latin square.  We then divided the plants into groups.  The control group received nothing but flushes of water for 30 days.  Group 1 was given two times the strength of Miracle-Gro on the 8th and 9th day and tap water the rest of the days.  Group 2 was given two times the strength of Miracle-Gro on the 8th, 9th, 24th and 25th day and tap water the rest of the days.  Preliminary results are showing that the nutrient flushings are killing more leaves than promoting leaf development.

P43

ALDEHYDE CARBON-13 CHEMICAL SHIFTS Patterson,Stephanie US Naval Academy
Carbon-13 Nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR) spectroscopy has become a vital resource in the study of chemical structure. In the characterization of newly synthesized or discovered molecules, the prediction of the 13C NMR chemical shifts for these compounds would aid in the determination of the chemical structure. We are currently developing a searchable database of chemical shifts for a wide variety of aldehydes. This database will be used in the development of substituent increments for the prediction of 13C NMR chemical shifts of carbonyls. Preliminary studies have focused upon the prediction of carbonyl chemical shifts using substituent increments derived for other functional groups such as benzenes.

P44

DEMONSTRATION OF ELECTROPHILIC AROMATIC SUBSTITUTUION REACTIONS IN AN ORGANIC LAB EXPERIMENT: SYNTHESIS OF TRIARYL METHINE DYES Daggett, Kelly A. and Dr. James McCullagh
In this work we demonstrate the use of electrophilic aromatic substitution (EAS) reactions (Friedel- Crafts Acylation and Halogenation) in the undergraduate organic labs to make products with useful and interesting properties. From inexpensive precursors it is possible to produce several different methine dyes. These dyes have many uses, such as pH indicators, food dyes, inks and clothing dyes. The synthesis of Erythrosin B (FD&C #3) demonstrates both Friedel-Crafts type reactions and halogenation of aromatic rings in the same experiment. These reactions have several advantages over many examples of EAS reactions found in laboratory texts. First they make compounds of practical utility, which shows students that chemical reactions can make molecules that can have an impact on people's everyday lives. Also they use dilute protic acids and thereby avoid the use of Lewis acids, like ZnCl2 and AlCl3, which can be problematic in an undergraduate lab due to water absorption diffic!
ulties. The lab experiments have also been scaled down to work in typical microscale glassware and in the amount of time typically allotted to an undergraduate lab.

P45

CHARACTERIZATION OF THE INHIBITION OF LACCASE BY REDOX MEDIATORS Resto, Melissa, and Elisa M. Woolridge, Department of Chemistry and Physics, Marist College
Laccase, a copper-containing oxidase produced by various plants and fungi, is capable of oxidizing a broad range of phenolic compounds.  Significantly, the substrate range can be extended to non-phenolics when laccase is provided with low molecular weight redox mediators.  The resulting enzyme-mediator system has been considered for use in a variety of industrial processes, most notably for wood pulp delignification.  In some instances, though, the laccase-generated oxidants irreversibly inhibit the enzyme.  Characterization of the mechanism of inactivation is therefore essential prior to optimization of the laccase-mediator process for commercial application.  This report describes the inactivation of enzyme, purified in-house, by selected mediators.

P46

SYNTHESIS OF P-TOLYL PORPHYRINS USING DIPYRROMETHANE INTERMEDIATES, Alicia Mullaley, Kelly Dagget, Pamela K. Kerrigan, James McCullagh, Manhattan College, College of Mount Saint Vincent, Riverdale, NY 10471
Research has been done into the effect that porphyrins can have on cancer cells during photodynamic therapy.  It may be possible to coordinate a carotenoid pigment, using these porphyrins as an anchor, to protect healthy, non-cancerous cells from destruction by the laser used in such treatments.  The first stage of this process is to create synthetic porphyrins in the laboratory, purify and isolate each one, and then go about the necessary procedure to covalently link them with carotenoid pigment.  Using the modified Adler method, we obtained a tarry byproduct that made the isolation of the porphyrins difficult without utilizing numerous columns.  A literature search discovered the Lindsey method of porphyrins synthesis by the use of dipyrromethanes.  The results of the synthesis and purification of the starting material 5(4-Methylphenyl)dipyrromethane will be presented.

P47

BODY IMAGE, SELF-ESTEEM AND STRESS RESILIENCE IN MALE AND FEMALE COLLEGE STUDENTS Vanessa Carrasco, Maci Dorland, Laloma Kagan, and Jen Sevier, Psychology Dept., Ithaca College
This study investigated gender differences in body satisfaction, self-esteem and stress resilience in undergraduate college students.  Fifty-one males and 137 females completed three measures of body image developed by the Ithaca College CRETV lab, along with measures of self-esteem and resilience to stress.  Females showed significantly greater body dissatisfaction than males on all three subscales of the Body Image Attitude Scale (BIAS) and indicated much more negative feelings about their stomach, hips, thighs, buttocks, and upper arms than males on the Body Coloring Task (BCT). Self-esteem and resilience to stress were highly correlated for both males and females; however, self-esteem was more highly correlated with BIAS scores for females, but more highly correlated with BCT scores for males.

P48

STIMULATION OF POTASSIUM CHANNELS IN LIVER DUCT CELLS BY FORSKOLIN AND IONOMYCIN Rebekah Hubbard and Dr. William Cliff, Biology Dept., Niagara University, NY
Liver duct cells secrete fluid during bile formation. This secretion involves K+ transport by K+ channels.  They are regulated by neurotransmitters and hormones such as secretin and gastrin.  K+ channels in WITT liver duct cells were studied by single channel, cell-attached patch clamping.  In order to identify how these channels are regulated we investigated how forskolin, an agent that increases intracellular cAMP and ionomycin, an agent that increases intracellular Ca2+, enhance channel activity.  Forskolin stimulated channel activity in 13 of 24 cells while ionomycin stimulated 7 of 7 cells.  Channel activity enhanced by forskolin or ionomycin showed different current/voltage characteristics.  These results suggest that cAMP and Ca2+ stimulate different classes of K+ channels in liver duct cells.

P49

EFFECTS OF PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY ON SUPERCOILED DNA STRAND BREAKS CAUSED BY OXIDATIVE DNA DAMAGE Worboys,Heather L, and Robert S. Greene, Biology Dept., Niagara University.
In the presence of free radical oxygen, supercoiled DNA is cut and forms open circle DNA.  The effectiveness of photodynamic therapy on oxidative DNA damage to supercoiled DNA was tested by subjecting puc 18 to Hematoporphyrin (HPPH) and meso-tetra-4-N-N-N-trimethyanilinium Porphyrin chloride (TAPP) in the presence of CuSO4 and H2O2.  The test compared each of the photoactive drug's effects in ultraviolet light to no light.  Gel electrophoresis showed that HPPH inhibited the strand breaks in the presence of ultraviolet light and favored the dark reactions.  TAPP however, showed no signs of inhibition or activation of strand breaks in the ultraviolet light reactions or dark reactions.  These results suggest that these photodynamic drugs have an alternate mechanism other than what is normally observed. 

P50

THE DISTRIBUTION OF ALPHA-BUNGAROTOXIN-LABELED NEURONAL NICOTINIC RECEPTORS IN EMBRYONIC CHICK FOREBRAIN NEURONS IN CULTURE Metcalfe, Charles and Mark Jareb, Dept. of Biology, Sacred Heart University
Neuronal nicotinic acetycholine receptors (nAChR) are involved in numerous behaviors and functions as varied as attention, addiction, and memory.  The subcellular localization of the nAChR greatly affects nAChR function.  Postsynaptic nAChR mediate fast synaptic transmission while presynaptic nAChR modulate transmission by affecting release of other neurotransmitters.  Alpha-bungarotoxin (alpha-BgTx) specifically binds to the alpha7 subunit of nAChR, and so can be used to visualize those nAChR that contain alpha7. We observed that cell-surface alpha-BgTx labeling is restricted to the cell body and dendrites in a subset of embryonic chick forebrain neurons in culture, suggesting that alpha7-containing nAChR in these neurons function in fast synaptic transmission but do not function in presynaptic modulation of neurotransmitter release.

P51

EFFECT OF CANOPY POSITION ON LEAF SENESCENCE AMONG DECIDUOUS TREE SPECIES DURING AUTUMN Napper, Steven A., Biology Department, Central Connecticut State University
The objective of this study was to determine whether the canopy position influences the scenescence of leaves within a species. Some environmental factors possibly influencing leaf senescence that vary along the vertical gradient include temperature, carbon dioxide concentrations, light intensity and genetics. This study focused only on whether leaves fall based on their vertical position, not the cause. One plot was surveyed having dimensions of 10 meters by 10 meters. There were five different tree species observed within this plot. Each tree was classified into four vertical positions; canopy, sub-canopy, shrub, and herbaceous. From observation and data collected, leaf senescence depends only slightly on vertical position. Senescence occurred at generally the same rate along the vertical gradient.

P52

A RADIOTELEMETRIC STUDY OF EASTRN BOX TURTLE (TERRAPEENE CAROLINA CAROLINA) HOMERANGE, HABITIAT USE, AND HIBERNACULA SELECTION IN CONNECTICUT Wright, Marissa L., D.P. Quinn, and J.T. Tessier, Department of Biological Sciences, Central Connecticut State University.
We proposed to study habitat use by eastern box turtles (Terrapene c. carolina) in Connecticut.  Thirty turtles will be fitted with radio transmitters and tracked from April 2004 until emergence from hibernacula the following spring.  Radio tracks will be obtained daily on each turtle recorded using GPS. Homeranges will be constructed on monthly and seasonal bases. Vegetation will be surveyed around each turtle at each observation. Line transects will be run through each home range to establish vegetative habitat types. Home range habitat types will then be compared with vegetation use by each turtle to determine percent time spent in each habitat type.  Hibernacula will be determined in late fall when an over wintering site is selected by each turtle. 

P53

EFFECTIVENESS OF PESTICIDE APPLICATION IN INSECT CONTROL ON ORANGE TREES Lodovico, Chrystal A. and Jack T. Tessier, Department of Biological Sciences, Central Connecticut State University.
The orange tree research project was conducted to test the effectiveness of pesticide spraying of orange trees in Central Florida. The objectives of the experiment were to measure the effectiveness of pesticide spraying by observing insect abundance and composition. I identified 30 orange trees before pesticide spraying occurred and observed insects around the trees and also clipped a branch to sample the resident insects. I repeated the process after the spraying occurred. Very few insects survived after the spraying. I support the use of chemical pesticides to promote healthy orange trees. Central Florida's economy is heavily based on the production of oranges, so bad seasons and unhealthy groves are both problems that must be avoided. 

P54

DESIGN AND SYNTHESIS OF SIMPLE FATTY ACID ESTERS TO INDUCE APOPTOSIS Walter E. Martucci, William E. Sanford, and Jay D. Pike, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Providence College
Over-expression of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, anti-apoptotic proteins, inhibits an important cell-death pathway, a major problem in cancer progression and treatment.  Antimycin A has been shown to bind to Bcl-xL, inducing apoptosis.  Our recent molecular modeling studies show that simple fatty acid esters, based on structural characteristics of antimycin A, have higher binding affinities than antimycin A with Bcl-xL.  We will discuss the synthesis of the esters which closely resemble the binding orientation of antimycin A with a calculated 10-fold lower docking energy.  To test the actual binding properties of our proposed esters with Bcl-xL, the reported fluorescence activity of the antimycin A - Bcl-2 complex will be utilized to construct a series of competitive binding assays.

P55

COMPARING GENDER DIFFERENCES IN CHILDREN'S HOLIDAY GIFTS RECEIVED LaRosa, Daniel, Lindsay Morse, Adam Lock, Brooke Laux, and Donna Fisher-Thompson, Psychology Department, Niagara University, NY 14109
The purpose of this research is to identify gifts children received for the holidays in 2003 compared to gifts received in 1991.  Surveys were mailed to parents of first and fourth grade children asking them to list all gifts the children received.  Each toy listed on completed surveys was identified as traditionally given to boys (masculine), girls (feminine), or both (gender neutral).  Gifts were also scored as belonging to a toy category such as dolls, vehicles, stuffed animal, computer games, and so on.  The results indicated that there was an increase in the overall proportion of gender-typed toys from 1991 to 2003.  In 2003, fewer boys received sporting equipment and more girls received computer and video games than previously.

P56

CHARACTERIZATION OF THE ANTIZYME GENE FAMILY IN XENOPUS LAEVIS, Eberhard, Lindsay, Campo, Meghan, Toth, Charles, Department of Biology, Providence College
Antizyme (AZ) is a polyamine-induced cellular protein that serves as the main regulatory pathway for negative influence on polyamine levels.  Polyamines are small, charged organic molecules that are required for cellular proliferation.  AZ activity is expressed in a wide distribution of eukaryotes as a gene family.  This study has isolated a full-length clone of AZ2 from Xenopus laevis using a partial cDNA sequence from the NCBI database and PCR cloning.  Expression of AZ mRNA and protein was examined during Xenopus embryogenesis.  Experiments are in progress to use Morpholinos© directed against AZ.  This will allow the ablation of AZ expression to determine the role of AZ in organogenesis in Xenopus laevis.

P57

THE CATABOLISM OF BENZ[A]ANTHRACENE BY BACTERIA ISOLATED FROM PAH CONTAMINATED SOIL CONTAMINATED SOIL. MacEwan, Melanie, Alyson A. Fiorillo*, Elisa M. Wooldridge*, Andrew M. Ryder, Department of Biology, *Department of Chemistry and Physics, Marist College.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are hazardous compounds present in fossil fuels. To study PAH-degrading bacteria native to the Hudson River Valley, we cultured PAH contaminated soil in Stainer's medium supplemented with phenanthrene and benz[a]anthracene.  Bacteria were isolated on Stanier's agar overlayed with phenanthrene and benz[a]anthracene.  Using morphological characterization, staining, and the Biolog MicrologTM system, we assigned two isolates, V6 and B1, to the genus Bacillus; B1 was presumptively identified as Bacillus licheniformis.  V6 and Bl were independently cultured in liquid minimal medium supplemented with 50 mg/ml benz[a]anthracene to determine the rate of degradation.  Bl failed to grow, but V6 doubled in density within 2 weeks. Initial and final concentrations of benz[a]anthracene were measured by HPLC; results are forthcoming.

P58

THE DEVELOPMENT OF A METHOD BASED ON COLD-VAPOR ATOMIC ABSORPTION SPECTROMETRY INCORPORATING A NOVEL SAMPLE INTRODUCTION SYSTEM FOR THE DETERMINATION OF CADMIUM Eric Ritschdorff and Neil Fitzgerald, Department of Chemistry and Physics, Marist College.
In this study, a cold-vapor atomic absorption spectrometry (CV-AAS) system has been set up using a novel sample introduction system (MSIST) in order to determine trace levels of cadmium in environmental samples.  A detection limit of 0.026 &#956;g/L (3s) was obtained with a RSD of 2.5% (n = 4) for a 0.5 &#956;g/L Cd standard.  Several masking agents have been investigated in order to reduce interferences in the system.  A method has been developed that utilizes thiourea, combined with nickel and cobalt, to accurately determine Cd concentrations in two standard reference materials, NIST 1640 (natural water) and NIST 2976 (mussel tissue). 

P59

No Title: Randy Drevland, Marist College
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are persistent organic pollutants with genotoxic and carcinogenic properties. In this study a PAH contaminated park in Verplanck, NY, was the site of interest. A series of bioremediation strategies were examined in a pilot study to determine the optimal approach for remediation. An HPLC method was developed to identify and quantify PAHs.  A 7-hour Soxhlet extraction proved to be the most efficient.  Uncontaminated soil was spiked with six PAHs.  A consortium of indigenous bacteria and two white rot fungi, Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Pycnoporus cinnabarinus, were inoculated into separate soil samples.  Over a six month period, significant degradation of phenanthrene was observed by each method of bioremediation.  Higher molecular weight PAHs were not significantly degraded.

P60

THE MCMURRAY REACTION REVISED:  AN ALTERATION IN CARBONYL COUPLING Michael Callahan, Andrew Kennedy, Chemistry Department, Providence College
The McMurray Reaction is a known reaction in which two carbonyl groups are reductively coupled in order to form an alkene.  A problem with the McMurray reaction is that the chemicals necessary for the reaction cost a lot of money.  Also, the McMurray Reaction takes a lot of time.  At Providence College, we have devised an alteration in the procedure which lessens the time needed and overall cost of the reaction.  We have found this revised reaction to work with the coupling of benzophenone and 2-adamantanone, and are currently determining how this differing procedure works with different sets of reactants. 

P61

THE USE OF PORPHYRINS AS LIGHT ABSORBING SENSITIZERS FOR PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY WITH C6 RAT GLIOMA CELLS Tanya Smith, Biochemistry/Chemistry Dept.,Manhattan College/College of Mount Saint Vincent
Photodynamic therapy is the use of light coupled with the administration of light sensitive porphyrins to treat malignant cells. The response of C6  glial cells to these porphyrins was investigated. The cells incorporated the porphyrins in vitro.  The cells were incubated for a period of 20-24 hours after treatment with the porphyrins. They were irradiated for an hour and incubated for another 20-24 hours. The effect of the porphyrin was determined by cell viability using a haemocytometer. UV spectroscopy was conducted on the porphyrin samples prior to and following filtering to ensure that porphyrin concentration was maintained. Initial results revealed that of the tri-anisyl porphyrin showed the best results. The metallated porphyrins and the unmetallated porphyrins gave fairly similar results. 

P62

HYDROGEN-BONDED NETWORKS IN METAL AMMONIUM PHOSPHATES AND THEIR ANALOGUES MacDonald, Graham T. and W.H. Pearson
The hydrogen-bonded network in metal ammonium phosphates is known to be essential to the stability of the crystal structures.  The multiple equilibria that exist in such systems make the syntheses of these salts quite a challenge. We have attempted to grow a series of metal ammonium phosphates by systematically altering the stoichiometric composition of the starting solutions as well as the pH. Products have been characterized by IR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography.  Crystal structures to be discussed include struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate) and newberyite (magnesium monohydrogenphosphate trihydrate). Hydrogen-bonded networks in these structures will be compared to those in the analogous sulfate compound, zinc ammonium phosphate hexahydrate.

P63

MECHANICAL AND CHEMICAL CONTROL OF MULTI-FLORA ROSE Brian Matulis and Jack Tessier, Biology dept.; Central Connecticut State University
The purpose of this field study is to examine possible control methods of the invasive Multi-Floral rose.  In the fall of 2003, two control methods were tested in Stanley Quarter Park, located in New Britain, CT.  Mechanical control was applied by cuttings and chemical control consisted of glyphosate application on fresh cut stumps. We expect to find much lower growth rates in the chemically treated plots than in the mechanically treated plots.  Ideally the chemical treatment will thwart growth completely.  This experiment is still on going, with an expected completion date of late May 2004, to allow for a complete growing season.

P64

MOLECULAR GENETIC INVESTIGATION OF SEXUAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE BASIDIOMYCETE FUNGUS SCHIZOPHYLLUM COMMUNE Giblin, Christine and Stramaglia, Lynn, biology department, sacred heart university
Schizophyllum commune is a homobasidiomycete, extensively investigated as a model system for control of sexual development in the higher fungi.  Specific A-pathway/B-pathway mating-type factor interactions begin a cascade of developmental events leading to sexual reproduction.  Our working hypothesis is that appropriate mating-type factor interactions directly initiate differential expression of genes essential to developmental events.  The results of an ongoing project to isolate genes differentially expressed during sexual development are presented, including: the breeding of S. commune strain SHUT81, development of a procedure to isolate mRNA from cultures activated for sexual development, and current progress in constructing cDNA libraries to serve as a source of differentially expressed genes. 

P65

WETSCIENCE: AN INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING OPPORTUNITY FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS. Crocker, Kathryn, Betsy Elmer, and Mark Gallo, Biology Department, Niagara University
A number of hands-on activities were created that involve exploration of the physical and chemical properties associated with water and how they impact the biological world.  The content was tied to the New York State learning standards.  Faculty and undergraduate students from Niagara University introduced these activities to middle school students through classroom visitations.  Technology integration was a large component of these lessons, and VernierT probes were used to gather quantitative results.  The students were then asked to become environmental stewards by monitoring the characteristics of an adopted waterway. They were responsible for placing their results onto an internet-based database.  Assessment of student learning was through the use of pre- and post-surveys containing attitudinal and content and conceptual questions.

P66

DIFFERENCES IN SUBURBAN PASSERINE DIVERSITY Charpentier, Katherine, Kerri Dikun, Faculty mentor: Dr. Jennifer Mattei, Biology Dept., Sacred Heart University
This field research tested the hypothesis that there would be more bird diversity in an area of less disturbance and fragmentation than in a location with relatively more. Surveys of the total number of species and abundance of species were done at Milford Audubon Center in Milford, Connecticut and at a small meadow adjacent to Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut.  In Milford, mist netting and bird banding were utilized to collect data. Sight surveys were used at Sacred Heart. Comparisons of diversity were also made between data from Milford this fall with past years. Using the Shannon-Weiner Index, the species diversity at Milford was calculated to be 2.45 and at Sacred Heart it was 1.97.

P67

COMPUTATIONAL STUDIES OF CANTHARIDIN ANALOGS DESIGNED TO TARGET THE HEP-G2 LIVER CANCER CELL LINE Mack,Kyle, Brooke Switala, James Ashby and Mary P. Mc Court, Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, Niagara University, Niagara Falls, NY
Cantharidin is a naturally occurring molecule that possesses an oxygen atom at the 7-position of a bicyclo [2.2.1] heptane ring system and a carboxylic acid anhydride.  The parent compound has been known to have anti-tumor activity but with high toxicity.  Novel analogs have been synthesized and studied in three cell lines, HL-60, RIF and Hep-G2.  Several analogs have been shown to exhibit specificity for the Hep-G2 cell line.  Computational studies will be carried out using SYBYL software on an SGI.  AM1 calculations will be run on the molecules that show the best and least specificity for the Hep-G2 cell line.  The calculations will provide optimized structures, heats of formation as well as charge information for these molecules.  From this information an electrostatic and structural pharmacophore model will be developed that will aid in the understanding of the reasons for the specificity of certain analogs for the Hep-G2 cell line.  Electrostatic potential maps will be calculated and compared to aid in the understanding of the Hep-G2 specificiity.  The molecules will also be model built and fit into the PP2A active site in an effort to determine a best fit model.  Further studies will aid in new synthesis.

P68

MEDIA MANIPULATION TO LOCATE NOVEL ANTIBIOTIC PRODUCERS FROM SOIL BACTERIA POPULATIONS Sullivan, Theodore, Melissa Anderson, Kathy Palaski, and Michael Davis. Department, Biological Sciences, Central Connecticut State University.
Historically, soil bacteria have provided investigators with a source of antibiotic drugs. New antibiotic compounds are constantly being sought in an attempt to keep pace with the antimicrobial resistance observed among bacterial pathogens. In an attempt to locate a new subset of antibiotic producers, we have manipulated the media on which these bacteria are grown. Reduced nutrient media, media with a range of pH, and media made from soil itself were created and used to study soil microorganisms which "prefer" any of these growth conditions. In all three media manipulation experiments a small population of microorganisms grew on the altered media but not on the traditional media. These altered media will be used to isolate candidate antibiotic producers among subsets not yet investigated.

P69

METABOLIC AFFECTS OF NADH DIET SUPPLEMENTATION IN SPRAGUE-DAWLEY RATS  Roy,Christopher and Cheryl L. Watson,Biological Sciences,Central Connecticut State University
Recent studies show that supplementation of NADH into the diet can increase energy levels and increase response time (Birkmayer, et. al 1996).  Since there has been very little research on the metabolic consequences of NADH diet supplementation, further research could demonstrate the value of NADH as a possible aid in energy.
Six male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed (0.032  mg/250g) of NADH in their daily diet equivalent to suggested values for humans, while six other male rats act as control animals, receiving their normal chow, ad libitum.  Metabolic rates will be measured, using indirect calorimetry, after 1 week.   Additional metabolic tests will be done after weeks two and four 4 to see if the rates are have changed.

P70

BLUEFISH EXPRESSION OF HSP70 IN RESPONSE TO ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTANTS Mehta, Meghana,Michelle Smollen and Cheryl L. Watson,Biological Sciences,Central Connecticut State University.
Bluefish off the Mid-Atlantic coast represent significant commercial and recreational fisheries that may be threatened by wastewater toxins.  The stress protein Hsp70 is expressed in response to a variety of physical and chemical physiological stressors. 
We used SDS-PAGE and Western blot techniques for Hsp70 as a rapid, sensitive test to assess the health of wild fishes.  Samples of skeletal muscle and liver microsomes were collected from bluefish caught in contaminated or pristine sites off  the coast of New Jersey.  Skeletal muscle was a poor predictor of contaminated waters with only 15% of the fish caught in polluted areas testing positive for Hsp70.  Liver microsomal samples from fish in polluted areas more consistently expressed Hsp 70. 

P71

SURVEY OF TYROSINE PHOSPHORYLATED PROTEINS IN NEONATAL RAT CARDIAC MYOCYTES Burton,Melissa,Barrett DeVeau and Cheryl L. Watson, Biological Sciences, Central Connecticut State University
As part of a larger study of tyrosine kinase (PTK) regulation of ion channels, we asked if an increase in [Ca2+] resulted in tyrosine phosphorylation of Na+ or L-type Ca2+ channels.  Isolated neonatal cardiac cells were incubated with Ca2+ (1µM ),  phosphotyrosinated proteins were immunoprecipitated, separated by PAGE,  then probed using antibodies against conserved regions of the Na+ channel or the L-type Ca2+ channel.We also intend to investigate the pathway that leads to Na+ channel phosphorylation by using similar techniques to probe for activation of Src, PYK2, and PKC kinases

P72

ISOLATION AND PURIFICATION OF TARGETTED ANTIBACTERIAL COMPOUNDS FROM SOIL BACTERIA Tassy, Jennifer, Christine Bento, Karl Harris, Lisa Aschenbrenner, Matt Wietzman, Krista Perrella, David Bancroft, Jimmy DeBevoise, and Michael Davis. Department of Biological Scineces, Central Connecticut State University.
Beginning with a large collection of soil bacterial isolates, we have focused our attention on a limited number of candidates that (a) show a broad spectrum of action against a variety of common human-associated bacteria, and (b) show inhibitory activity against Pseudomonas spp. Antibacterial compounds in the former class could be useful in bacterial disease chemotherapy for infections of uncertain etiology. Those in the latter class could be useful for treating those diseases caused by pseudomonads, including wound infections and respiratory infections in CF patients. The isolation of some of the active compounds is underway, and spectroscopic structural analysis will ultimately reveal if any of these represent novel agents.

P73

CAN PHOTO-REPAIR BE INDUCED? Montrose, Marci, and Michael Davis. Department, Biological Sciences, Central Connecticut State University.
Many organisms, including humans, possess enzyme systems for repairing DNA damage caused by non-ionizing radiation (UV light). We are using Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli to test (a) if the capacity for photo-repair can be induced in these bacterial strains by previous light exposure, and (b) if photorepair can occur if UV irradiation is followed by growth in the dark. The procedure involves growing the bacteria in either light or dark conditions, exposing them to UV irradiation, and incubating them afterwards in either light or dark conditions. We hope these findings will help us to better understand photo-repair, which could impact preventative treatments for humans exposed to UV light.

P74

MACROMOLECULAR CROWDING INFLUENCES THE RATE OF OXIDATIVE DNA DAMAGE IN VITRO Jenkins, Richard, Preddie, Kern and R.S. Greene, Biology Department, Niagara University
Macromolecular crowding or volume exclusion involves the saturation of a physiological media or cytoplasm (in vitro) with macromolecules.  The investigation of the influence of macromolecular crowding underscores the importance of accurately mimicking cellular conditons within which biological processes are investigated in vitro.  In present studies macromolecular crowding was found to accelerate the effects of oxidative DNA damage in the presence of specific concentrations of Ficoll and Dextran.  The results of these studies indicate that crowding can influence the rate of oxidative DNA damage in vitro.  Oxidative DNA damage has been linked to such human malignancies as radiation effects, chemotherapy, mutagenesis and carcinogenesis.

P75

MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES INDUCED BY ACTIVATION OF PHOTODYNAMIC AGENTS IN RIF CELLS IN CULTURE Toetz, Colleen, Loiselle, Alayna and R.S. Greene, Biology Department, Niagara University
Radiation Induced Fibrosarcoma (RIF) cells were grown in culture and treated with either Photofrin or two other photoactive phorphyrin derivatives, TAPP and HPPH.  Morphological changes in activated and unactivated photoagent treated cells were observed by confocal microscopy at early (1 hr) and late (24 hr) times.  Significant differences in agent localization and apoptotic morphologies were associated with the individaul photoagents.

P76

COMPARISON OF THE FLANKING REGIONS OF STREPTOMYCETE BIOSYNTHETIC GENE CLUSTERS Barth, Kenneth R, and Dr. Mark A. Gallo, Biology Department, Niagara University
The genus Streptomyces is of great interest due to the production of an enormous variety of secondary metabolites.  The most recent sequencing of the S. avermitilis genome has allowed for detailed comparison to S. coelicolor A3(2), the representative species of the genus.  With the use of nucleotide alignment programs, the levels of nucleotide variation and conservation were found at loci flanking biosynthetic clusters.  The location of such clusters was also characterized with respect to the whole chromosome.  These clusters included genes responsible for pigment production, antibiotic production, and other compounds produced by either non-ribosomal peptide synthases, or polyketide synthases.  These synthases are commonly found in biosynthetic pathways for secondary metabolites in Streptomycetes.

P77

EARLY INFANT LEARNING DURING A TRADITIONAL MOBILE TASK Young,Amanda M., Erin Harper, Tracy Butler & Dr. Donna Fisher-Thompson, Psychology Dept., Niagara University
This study evaluated the effectiveness of an infant learning task, known as the mobile paradigm, by comparing standard kicks to other types of movements that also result in reinforcement (i.e., movement of the mobile). The participants included 20 3-month-old infants. The task involved three stages: baseline, acquisition, and extinction. A ribbon connected one leg to the mobile during acquisition. The leg movements were coded by separating the flexion and extension phase of the kicks. Types of leg movements coded included standard kicks, inward/outward movements, manipulations of the attached leg, and leg raises. Results showed that there was an increase in the amount of kicking during the acquisition with both legs and that subtle change was found in the movements made.

P78

LOCUS OF CONTROL DIFFERENCES IN SENIOR AND FRESHMEN COLLEGE STUDENTS Lindsay C Fahey, Psychology Department, Lycoming College

In 1960, John Rotter developed the first locus of control measurement, which is defined as a personality construct that measures an individual’s perception of the locus of events as determined internally by their own behavior vs. external circumstances.  Prior research has shown differences among age groups; however, much of the research focuses on populations with larger age gaps.  This study utilizes a four-year age difference when applying Rotter’s Locus of Control questionnaire.  Sixty students from a small liberal arts college agreed to participate, filling out the questionnaire.  Statistical studies showed a significant difference in locus of control among college students.

P80

LAKE AND POND RESPONSE TO DROUGHT IN THE BOREAL FORESTMiczko, Monica, Evan Waletzko, and Barbara Nicholson, Department ofBiological Sciences, Central Connecticut State UniversityThe Boreal forest region of Alberta, Canada has been experiencing recorddroughts since 1999.  In response ponds and lakes have drawn down and are being colonized by new plants.  Hydrological cycles and their impact on shore vegetation have been previously described in the prairies where droughts are frequent.  Boreal wetlands however are usually stable, often supporting the same vegetation for thousands of years.  This project involves documenting changes in drought-impacted lakes and ponds.  A seed bank study was conducted to determine what seeds were present in the seed bank and if the composition of the newly established community is a function of seed abundance, or if a relationship exists with the physical and chemical properties of the peat.

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