Each semester students participate in independent research projects under the mentorship of a faculty research advisor. These students have the opportunity to develop projects and play a key role in the progression of their faculty member’s research program.
The following abstracts will be presented at the 2024 Fall Jepson Science Center Symposium, separated by departmental affiliations:
Biological Sciences
- Poster 2: Expression of Plasmodesmal Regulatory Genes in Response to Brassinosteroids
Max W. De La Cruz Morrobel, Advisor: Dr. April Wynn
Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a class of plant hormones that induce cellular growth and division. They travel through plasmodesmata (PD), channels inside cell walls of plants cells that allow for molecular transport. PDs have a regulatory mechanism called callose deposition that pinches the channel and restricts the flow of molecules. The presence of a negative feedback loop involving BR as a regulator of callose deposition and thus PD flow, has been speculated. Examining the genetic regulation of PD pinching through hormone level fine-tuning can have valuable implications for developing higher-yielding transgenic crops. To explore the role of BR regulation in PDs, Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings were grown and exposed to BR for 24 hours. mRNA was extracted from BR treated and a non-treated control seedling, and the gene expression levels of callose generating genes (GLUCAN-SYNTHASE-LIKE 8 (GSL8) and GLUCAN-SYNTHASE-LIKE 12 (GSL12)) were measured. Comparisons of gene expression between treatments were examined for BR response. It is expected that the GSL8 and GSL12 genes will have higher expression in BR treated seedlings than in non-treated seedlings. Plants with single-gene mutations in gsl8, gsl12, and other related PD regulatory and BR genes were grown to examine compensation by genes of similar function in response to BR treatment in seedlings. It is expected that wild type Col-0 plants will have higher expression of GSL8 and GSL12 in response to BR exposure than in PD and BR gene mutants. - Poster 5: From Worms to Wonders: Improving Phenotype Recognition in C. elegans for Genetics Students
Stephanie Bailey, Advisor: Dr. Theresa Grana
In the genetics course, students conduct an examination of strains of C. elegans using a microscope. The primary objectives of this lab are to acquaint students with C. elegans, RNAi, and the mechanics of the feeding process while also providing an opportunity to explore online databases. Although the lab presents a learning opportunity for students to appreciate new laboratory techniques, it is not without its challenges. I have taken this course and have seen firsthand the uncertainty in observations. After the nematodes undergo RNAi feeding and incur the RNAi response, the resulting phenotypes pose complexity for students regarding recognition. To enhance the efficacy of this lab and secure its place in the genetics curriculum, I aim to address these challenges. By obtaining a nematode with an unmistakable phenotype, students will find it easier to discern under the dissecting microscope. Acquiring an RNAi target gene that expresses obvious phenotypes and subsequently using RNAi to downregulate them will yield highly discernible phenotypic characteristics. Documenting the observable phenotype through microscopic imaging, ensuring its visibility under the dissecting microscope, will significantly benefit students in the genetics course as they undertake their observations. A literature search led us to choose two new targets, skn-1 and nhr-23, which have been used in a similar lab at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. A comparative study was conducted between the currently utilized RNAi strains, rol-6 and bli-1 in N2 (wild type) versus NL2099 (RNAi hypersensitive), and alternative RNAi targets skn-1 and nhr-23 genes. This will enable us to determine the potential merit of employing the RNAi hypersensitive strain and whether these other targets give more reliable and more visible phenotypes. Should this approach benefit the students, the research findings and microscopic images will be incorporated into the lab manual for future genetic courses. - Poster 7: PRIMER DESIGN FOR DIVERSE NEMATODES
Alegria Bautista, Advisor: Dr. Theresa Grana
DNA Barcoding has revolutionized knowledge regarding the number of species worldwide and distinguishing cryptic species. This method has been beneficial by aiding in biomedical and agricultural research discoveries through another technique known as genome sequencing. Nematodes are a common organism used for this process due to their short generation time and easy maintenance in the lab, but benefits come with issues. A taxonomic impediment exists where increased species discovered causes unsustainable identification and description. A segment of DNA was taken from gathered strains of nematodes. It was used to identify their species through the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification technique, which concentrates on the 18S-rRNA region to differentiate nematodes. The primers 18S and 26R were used when running PCR because they yield results comparable to other sequences. New primers UW429 and UW430 were implemented in the Grana Lab this semester, and they focus on a different segment of the 18S-rRNA region. For this research, the gathered nematode sequences were compared to different sequences using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST). Utilizing DNA barcoding narrows the gap between the discovery and identification of species due to their efficiency and accessibility. - Poster 12: Crow’s Nest White-Tailed Deer Population Survey
Annalise Zurasky, Advisor: Dr. Andrew Dolby
Crow’s Nest Natural Area Preserve (CNNAP), located in Stafford Virginia, was established in 2008 and is managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Its 3,800 acres were previously owned by a private hunting club, which harvested 80-100 white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) annually. Since it became public land, no managed deer hunts were conducted until 2022. As a result, deer have been over browsing the plant community. Over browsing can lead to plant diversity decline and reduction of new growth. The objectives of this study are to survey the white-tailed deer population in CNNAP and develop a framework for long-term deer monitoring. To assess the deer population trends, 21 camera traps were placed throughout the preserve. Cameras were deployed in high-traffic deer movement areas within 100 feet of predetermined grid points and were spaced at least 250 feet apart to avoid overlapping detection zones. Each sections’ cameras were deployed for 14 days during the months of August, September, and October. Preliminary analysis of the data shows that the deer prefer Oak Heath Forest communities and are more active during 3PM-5PM. Future population surveys should also begin before the acorn drop. These results are important for the future population surveys in the preserve because knowing what communities deer prefer and when they are most active improves understanding of the interactions between the deer and their environment. This survey gives us insight into what effective population management strategies might entail, and functions as a baseline for future white-tailed deer projects. - Poster 13: An Analysis of Stream Fish Assemblages in Hazel Run Stream
Aidan Shell, Advisor: Dr. Brad Lamphere
Despite comprising only one percent of Earth’s surface, freshwater ecosystems harbor about half of the known taxa of fish (Rabosky 2020). Freshwater fish serve as vital biological indicators of stream health and contribute to numerous ecosystem functions and services. Fish composition data was collected from the Hazel Run stream at eleven different sites. Electrofishing was the mechanism used to catch fish that were counted and identified after at least thirty minutes of sampling at each site. Across our eleven sites in Hazel Run stream, we collected a total of 23 species belonging to 7 different families. Our results indicate that: 1) alpha diversity decreases from the headwater to the mainstem of the river, 2) downstream beta diversity has more variation than upstream and, 3) species turnover is driven by replacement and not nestedness. The results of this study support the hypothesis that local species richness (α) exhibits a decreasing pattern as distance from the mouth of the main river increases. Further, diversity among sites (β) was found to be greater downstream than upstream. Additionally, overall species turnover was influenced more by replacement than nestedness. The species composition data gathered in this study suggest clear and consistent differences in fish assemblages among sites that support the hypotheses of this study. Future studies should investigate the spatial and environmental factors driving diversity differences among sites in Hazel Run. - Poster 16: Evaluating the Impact of S-Adenosylmethionine Treatment and Methionine Deprivation on Cancer Cell Proliferation
Loren Nicol Delgadillo Llano, Advisor: Dr. Laura Sipe
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype with a 66% five-year survival rate when it spreads to nearby structures or lymph nodes, emphasizing the need for better treatments. One strategy involves starving TNBC cells of methionine, an essential amino acid they require in large amounts. Methionine is converted into S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) a universal methyl donor crucial for DNA methylation, a process where a methyl group is added to a DNA sequence. This process can silence tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) that typically inhibit uncontrolled cell growth via hypermethylation, high levels of DNA methylation. By reducing methionine, it may reactivate TSGs and slow cancer growth. Preliminary data have shown that TNBC cells grown with restricted methionine (MetR) fail to proliferate, have a lower DNA methylation and have a higher TSG expression. We hypothesize that if DNA hypomethylation, low amounts of DNA methylation, is sufficient to induce the anti-proliferative effects of MetR, then by adding SAM will restore DNA methylation, suppress TSGs, and increase cell proliferation. In an experiment using E0771 TNBC cells, cells were treated with either 3% MetR or complete media (CM), with varying SAM concentrations. Cell viability over 72 hours was assessed via an MTT assay. Results showed that in CM, increasing SAM concentrations decreased cell viability, while in MetR conditions, cell viability flatlined regardless of SAM levels. The lack of response to increasing SAM concentrations implies that MetR cells may be unable to utilize SAM effectively, due to insufficient methionine to support SAM metabolism or downstream methylation processes. - Poster 20: The Effects of Myoglianin Knockdown in Drosophila melanogaster with Myotonic Dystrophy Type One
Eleni Kepler, Advisor: Dr. Ginny Morriss
Myotonic Dystrophy Type One, or DM1, is a multisystemic disorder caused by the repeat expansion of a CTG sequence in the DMPK gene that is characterized primarily by low muscle tone. Another common symptom of DM1 is insulin resistance due to aberrant splicing of the insulin receptor in skeletal muscle, which can often develop into Type Two Diabetes. While the cause and features of DM1 are known, there is no known cure and very few effective treatments. If muscle growth is facilitated, some of the symptoms of DM1 may be alleviated. One suggested method by which to induce muscle growth is via myostatin which both presents as a biomarker for and regulates muscle growth. In Drosophila melanogaster, the homolog of myostatin is a protein called myoglianin, coded by the myo gene. Our lab uses a Drosophila DM1 model that expresses expanded CUG repeats in RNA using the Gal4/UAS system. We plan to modulate the expression of myo by RNAi knockdown in Drosophila with and without the expanded repeats. Fruit flies make a great model for this experiment due to their fast reproductive cycle and the simplicity of their signaling pathways, allowing assessment of muscle development and changes to insulin levels. The goal of my project is to determine whether knockdown of myo will increase skeletal muscle mass and decrease insulin resistance in DM1 affected flies compared to unaffected flies. - Poster 22: Enhancing Biomolecular visual literacy through Virtual Reality: Understanding Protein Structures with Nanome
Caitlin Harris, Advisor: Dr. Swati Agrawal
Biomolecular visual literacy, the ability to interpret and analyze visual representations of molecular structures, is a fundamental threshold concept in the molecular life sciences, serving as a gateway to student success. Traditional teaching tools often fall short in conveying the dynamic, three-dimensional nature of biomolecules, creating a need for innovative approaches. This research explores the integration of virtual reality (VR) technology into biology education, specifically targeting the teaching of biomolecular structure and function. The study presents two 90-minute lesson plans for upper-level Biology and Biochemistry students, utilizing the Nanome VR platform. In this immersive environment, students can build, manipulate, and analyze protein structures while observing the real-time effects of applied mutations. By working both individually and collaboratively in VR, students develop a deeper, three-dimensional understanding of protein folding, structural stability, and functional relationships—concepts that are often challenging to grasp through traditional methods. The research also incorporates assessment methods aimed at evaluating student engagement, comprehension, and the effectiveness of VR in enhancing understanding and retention of these complex topics. By bridging the gap between static representations and interactive, hands-on experiences, this study demonstrates the potential of VR as a transformative tool for biomolecular visualization in the classroom. - Poster 23: Iditarod’s effect on DM1 disease progression in a Drosophila melanogaster model
Delaney Humphrey, Carleigh Wood, Advisor: Dr. Ginny Morriss
This research aims to investigate the effects of increased Iditarod (Idit), the Drosophila melanogaster homolog of irisin, on the progression of Myotonic Dystrophy type 1 (DM1) in a Drosophila model. DM1 is caused by the expansion of CTG repeats in the DMPK gene, leading to muscle weakening and wasting. Given the role of irisin in muscle hypertrophy and its potential therapeutic effects in muscular dystrophies, this study will explore how Idit modulation impacts muscle structure and function in DM1 flies. Using classical genetics, this project will generate knockout (KO) and overexpression (OE) models of Idit in both healthy control (CTG20) and DM1 (CTG250) flies. Additionally, an exercise regimen, completed on a PowerTower which was constructed this semester, will be applied to assess the benefits of exercise induced Idit expression. Muscle function will be evaluated through climbing and flight tests, and muscle morphology will be analyzed via cryosectioning and staining techniques. Molecular work confirming that the Idit OE and Idit KO models worked was also started this fall. It is hypothesized that Idit OE and exercise will mitigate muscle wasting and improve muscle function in DM1 flies, while Idit KO will exacerbate the DM1 symptoms. This study aims to provide insights into the therapeutic potential of irisin in combating muscle degeneration in DM1 and enhance our understanding of how genetic and exercise interventions can influence disease outcomes. - Poster 26: Influences of the GLP-1 in the Positive Cognitive Effects of Environmental Enrichment
Alexis Miller, Christopher Anderson, Advisor: Dr. Parrish Waters
Ozempic is a drug that activates the GLP-1 system, treating symptoms of diabetes and curbing appetite in obese individuals. Studies suggest that this drug may have a side effect of increasing memory. We will test this hypothesis, using an established model of cognitive enhancement in mice, the enriched environment. We will use GLP-1 agonists and antagonist to explore this. Our results should increase our understanding of the long-term effects of this new drug. - Poster 29: SEA-GENES
Lucca Muta, Emily Wills, Advisor: Dr. Theresa Grana
SEA-GENES, a Howard Hughes research initiative, is an evolution of the SEA-PHAGES project, which sequenced and annotated the genomes of many bacteriophages. SEA-GENES expands on this project to determine the functions of genes coded by specific phages. In this project, we have prepared reagents and run assays to analyze bacteria growth and quality of sterile technique and reagents. Additionally, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify seven different genes in phage larva DNA. These PCR products were visualized through agarose gel electrophoresis to confirm that the correct genes were amplified. For future experimentation, we will purify the DNA from gel electrophoresis and treat them with restriction enzymes to later perform isothermal assembly and transformation. Following these steps, plasmids pExTra and p2Hα will be engineered to contain our selected phage genes. Then, phenotypic and interaction assays will be completed to determine the functions of several of our phage genes. The results of this project could be used to uncover novel phage gene functions that could have therapeutic uses, like fighting antibiotic resistance in the field of medicine. - Poster 34: University of Mary Washington Campus Tree Review
Laila Acquavella, Advisor: Dr. Alan Griffith
The University of Mary Washington campus is home to 2,213 trees representing 134 species. These trees include 238 heritage trees of historical and ecological importance. This project aimed to review the documented location and size of every tree on campus, and analyze patterns in species diversity, distribution, and ecological functions. The study addressed three key questions: What species of trees are present on campus? What are the most common and ecologically significant species? How are trees distributed across campus zones? Analysis revealed that the tallest tree on campus, a tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), is 47.01 meters tall with a mean canopy spread of 29.25 m. Some of the most common species on campus include red maples (Acer rubrum), flowering dogwoods (Cornus florida), and red oaks (Quercus rubra), which each contribute unique aesthetic and ecological benefits to our campus. This project also highlights the historical significance many trees have for our school, and Fredericksburg, such as the sugar maples on College Ave, the eastern red cedars on the battle ground, and the magnificent Brompton oak. These data can also be used in the future to calculate the CO₂ storage and ecological benefits of UMW’s trees and highlight their role in promoting sustainability and offsetting campus emissions. This research underscores the value of trees for biodiversity, history, and climate resilience, while also identifying areas for potential reforestation or tree planting to enhance ecological services. - Poster 35: Techniques Used to GEOlocate Herbarium Specimens
Laila Acquavella, Advisor: Dr. April Wynn
The University of Mary Washington Herbarium collection consists of over 5,000 dried plant specimens, representing 2,131 species from 13 countries across six continents. This collection includes historically significant specimens, such as 2,500 plants from Jamaica donated to UMW. Digitizing these specimens and georeferencing their locations has become a critical tool for making herbarium data widely accessible to researchers and the public. Creating digital documentation of these specimens helps to preserve the information they store, and supports global biodiversity research. This project explores techniques used to geolocate herbarium specimens using tools like SERNEC (Southeast Regional Network of Expertise and Collections) and GEOLocate, a platform designed to assign precise geographic coordinates to locality descriptions. It also outlines the processes of georeferencing, demonstrating how to interpret specimen label data, standardizing locality information, and using error polygons to estimate spatial accuracy. By georeferencing specimens, UMW contributes to a larger effort within SERNEC to digitize herbarium records across the southeastern United States. This enhances the utility of herbarium collections for research, education, and conservation planning, while also preserving fragile historical data for future generations. The tools and techniques described serve as a model for other institutions seeking to digitize and geolocate their own collections. - Poster 37: Using Apricot Seed Powder to Treat EMCV in BHK-21 Cells
Marion Robinson, Advisor: Dr. Lynn Lewis
This research proposal aims to investigate the potential of apricot powder as a treatment for Encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) in baby hamster kidney (BHK-21) cells. EMCV is a viral pathogen known to cause myocarditis in mammals, particularly in pigs, and is recognized as zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans. With the growing use of mammalian heart transplants in humans, understanding how pathogens like EMCV might enter the human host and cause organ rejection or chronic cardiovascular issues has become crucial. Apricot kernels have been used as a health remedy and studies have determined that they have these healing properties because amygdalin appears inside the seeds. The objective of this study is to determine whether apricot powder affects EMCV infectivity during viral infection. I hypothesize that, when administered at various dilutions, apricot powder will reduce the infectivity of EMCV in BHK-21 cells, with the highest dilution (10^-7) showing the most significant decrease in viral infectivity compared to the control group. The control group will consist of EMCV-infected BHK-21 cells, and the results will be compared to those of the treated cells. BHK-21 cells were selected for this experiment due to their previously demonstrated minimal cytokine response to EMCV infection. This research is significant as it explores a potential treatment for reducing the impact of EMCV infection. If successful, this study could offer insights into reducing animal mortality and possibly pave the way for further research on antiviral treatments that may apply to human health. - Poster 39: Expression, Characterization, and Comparative Analysis of Bacteriophage Endolysins.
Stephen Zdgiebloski, Advisor: Dr. Swati Agrawal
Bacteriophages present a promising alternative for combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria without disrupting the normal microbiome or harming human cells. The antibacterial properties of lytic bacteriophages are largely attributed to endolysins, enzymes active in the lytic cycle. Endolysins recognize bacterial cell walls and cleave the peptidoglycan matrix, leading to cell wall disruption. Their specificity and effectiveness against bacterial hosts are determined by two functional domains, including the cell wall binding domain. Our research focuses on characterizing Bacillus phage endolysins. We analyzed the protein sequences of endolysins from six Bacillus phages isolated at the University of Mary Washington. Although these phages were isolated using non-pathogenic Bacillus thuringiensis, they have been shown to infect B. cereus and B. anthracis, both of which are significant human pathogens. We confirmed that the phages Atlee, Jabberwock, and Frank share identical endolysin proteins, while Jackrabbit, Grumio, and Hari share a distinct type. To further investigate their lytic properties, we cloned the two types of endolysin proteins into a protein expression vector. We successfully cloned one of the endolysin proteins. Although our preliminary protein expression results are inconclusive, we are currently conducting Western blotting to confirm expression. In future, we aim to compare the lytic activities of the two endolysin proteins to better understand their effectiveness and specificity in targeting bacterial cell walls. We also plan to assess the influence of environmental factors, such as pH and temperature, on their activity and stability, providing insights into their potential applications in combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria. - Poster 40: INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF CHRONIC NOREPINEPHRINE EXPOSURE ON MICROGLIAL ALPHA AND BETA RECEPTORS AND ITS ROLE IN IL-1β PRODUCTION RELATED TO ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE PATHOGENESIS
Kristy A. Bagley, Meah Katz, Mikyas Telahun, Advisor: Dr. Deborah O’Dell
Neuroinflammation, driven by proinflammatory cytokines, is implicated in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Norepinephrine (NE), a neurotransmitter associated with chronic stress, activates microglial adrenergic receptors, potentially increasing IL-1β production and suggesting a link between stress and AD. This study investigates the effects of chronic NE exposure on IL-1β production in human microglial cells, using receptor-specific antagonists (prazosin for α1-AR, propranolol for β-AR, and labetalol for both β-AR and α1-AR) to isolate the contributions of α1-AR, β-AR, and combined receptor pathways. Microglia were treated with antagonists and exposed to medium (1 µM) and high (10 µM) NE concentrations. Media were collected at 3, 6, and 9 days, and protein content was measured using a BioRad Protein Analysis reagent. IL-1β levels were quantified using an ELISA human IL-1β kit (Sigma). None of the ELISA samples varied significantly with the exception of high NE with propranolol, the samples from other days had a low (0.108 pg/mL), high (0.110 pg/mL), and an average (0.109 ± 0.02 pg/mL) IL-1β levels. High NE with propanolol showed a statistically significant higher amount, p = 0.039, than what was seen with the other days (average =0.116 pg/mL, high= 0.118 pg/mL). These results suggest that high NE with propranolol induces activation of α1-adrenergic receptors, leading to greater production of proinflammatory cytokines. These findings highlight the role of adrenergic receptor pathways in modulating IL-1β production and suggest that targeting specific adrenergic receptors could provide therapeutic strategies to mitigate stress-induced neuroinflammation and slow Alzheimer’s disease progression. - Poster 41: The effects of PDGFRβ activation on vasculature in HUVEC cells transfected with myotonic dystrophy type 1 repeats
Bonnie Butler, Madison Bauserman, Jessie Bronski, Advisor: Dr. Ginny Morriss
Myotonic dystrophy 1 (DM1) is a genetic disease that causes muscle wasting and affects multiple organ systems. DM1 is caused by expanded CTG repeats in the 3’ untranslated region of the dystrophia myotonica protein kinase (DMPK) gene (Harper, 2001). Skeletal muscle relies on capillaries for nutrient delivery and waste clearance (Olfert, 2016). Skeletal muscle and capillaries communicate via a variety of chemicals, PDGF-BB being one both skeletal muscle and endothelial cells secrete and have receptors for (Hamaguchi, 2023). Platelet derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ), when bound to PDGF-BB, induces angiogenesis (Wang, 2012). In a mouse model of DM1, PDGFRβ signaling was found to be deregulated (Morriss, 2018). Previously unpublished data from our lab shows human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC cells) transfected with expanded CTG repeats display severe endothelial tube degradation based on length and width measurements. Reanalysis of these images will be performed to ensure accurate conclusions are drawn. To determine if deregulated PDGFRβ signaling is a cause of the observed endothelial tube degradation, PDGF-BB will be added to HUVEC cultures transfected with DM1 repeats. Work this semester has included figuring out how the plasmid used and doxycycline affect HUVEC cells in addition to reanalyzing images from the previous study from our lab. Our goal is to determine if the addition of PDGF-BB to HUVEC cells affected by DM1 normalizes PDGFRβ signaling and normalizes vasculature development in DM1. - Poster 42: A novel social stress choice model to explore the neurobiology of stress
Gabriela Valle, Caroline Turner, Advisor: Dr. Parrish Waters
Social stressors comprise the most intense stressors that animals face. We have developed a novel model called the ‘social stress choice paradigm’ that allows us to better explore social stress in laboratory mice. In this study, we will assess the effects of this paradigm on hormonal and brain dopamine systems, to expand our understanding of social stress and improve our ability to treat human stress related disorders.
Poster 45: UMW Campus Blue Lights – Maps for Public Safety
Jillian Rosenquist, Advisor: Dr. Alan Griffith
To ensure public safety, the University of Mary Washington (UMW) has placed emergency lights or Blue Lights around campus. These lights allow the public to quickly contact the UMW Police in an emergency. With over 200 active Blue Lights on campus, it is important to have clear documentation of their locations. This project will create an interactive and user-friendly public map and provide data collection for emergency phone management by the UMW Police. Using ArcGIS, two tables were created: Attribute and Inspection. Blue Light points were then collected, and the tables were linked to the data points on the map. The final product was an online map with Blue Light points and two tables. The map has two views: Public and Safety manager. The public will view a small pop-up table with location descriptors. The Safety manager will view an attribute table with more detailed descriptors of the Blue Lights and an inspection table that can be edited with information about the physical condition of each Blue Light. The published map will provide students and their families with peace of mind, as well as, create a new method to locate campus Blue Lights. The tables will also aid in the collection and storage of Blue Light data for the UMW Police department. This project has built a relationship between students and the Public Safety department at UMW which will allow for future partnerships for additional safety projects. - Poster 47: Synergistic Effects of Methionine Restriction and Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Briza Valdes-Llamas, Advisor: Dr. Laura Sipe
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive subtype affecting 10% of the overall breast cancer population is categorized as being more aggressive and difficult to treat, with only a 66% 5-year survival rate for cases involving regional infections to nearby structures or lymph nodes. Methionine, an essential amino acid, has been found to be important for cellular growth and proliferation, creating a phenomenon known as the Hoffman Effect. The direct mechanism by which cancer cells are dependent on methionine is unknown, but preliminary MTT cell viability assays have shown that TNBC cells cultured in methionine restricted (MetR) environments exhibit lower viability, particularly in 3% MetR environments. This finding confirmed TNBC cells need for methionine to maintain normal cellular functions. Additionally, TNBC cells experiencing MetR conditions induced higher rates of the gene Atf4, a marker of a nutrient derived integrated stress response. TNBC cells with lower proliferation rates and an increased stress response suggest that these cells may have higher vulnerable towards chemotherapeutic treatment. To investigate how MetR may sensitize TNBC cells to chemotherapy, we evaluated the effects of chemotherapy across varying MetR levels using an MTT assay. It is expected that the application of Oxaliplatin, a DNA-damaging agent, will be most effective in cells grown within 12%-3% methionine restricted media, reflecting synergistic effects between methionine restriction and chemotherapy. Our findings aim to confirm that methionine restriction sensitizes the TNBC cells, amplifying chemotherapy-induce damage and highlighting methionine restriction as a promising adjunct therapy. - Poster 48: Exploring the Role of a Putative ER Protein in Membrane Contact Site Formation in Toxoplasmosis gondii
Amanda Barahona, Abigail Powers, Jessica Kamel, Advisor: Dr. Swati Agrawal
Toxoplasma gondii is a single-celled parasite found worldwide, with members of the Felidae family serving as its definitive host. Human infection occurs when T. gondii is ingested through contaminated cat feces or infected food. This leads to the formation of tissue cysts in humans. While people who are immunocompetent may exhibit mild or no symptoms, those who are immunocompromised may suffer vital organ damage. In severe cases, toxoplasmosis can cause vision impairments, seizures, confusion, and loss of coordination. Our collaborators at the University of Georgia conducted a screen to identify membrane contact sites (MCS) between the mitochondrion, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and the apicoplast—a phylum-specific vestigial plastid organelle in Toxoplasma gondii. Using biotinylation experiments followed by mass spectrometry analysis, several MCS protein candidates were identified. TGME49_232050 was selected for this study because the gene appears to be only present in organisms within the Apicomplexa. The gene lacks any recognizable functional domains; however, it exhibits an exceptionally high fitness-conforming score, as confirmed in a previous genome-wide screen. By using the CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing technique we aim to replace the native promoter of the gene with a tetracycline responsive promoter in order to generate a conditional tet-off system. We hypothesize that this cKD will impair the parasite’s ability to complete its lytic cycle. To test our hypothesis, future work will involve verification of the transgenic line, isolation of clonal cKD parasites, and plaque assays to asses the growth differences in the cKD of TGME49_232050 in T. gondii. This research could identify a new therapeutic target for treating toxoplasmosis. - Poster 70: Effect of Genetic Modulation of Activin β Expression Levels on Skeletal Muscle Function and Structure
Ashlyn Rauch, Advisor: Dr. Ginny Morriss - Poster 71: Comparing Parasitism and Resistance to Flow in Two Populations of Elimia
Morgan Hicok, Advisor: Dr. Abbie Tomba
Trematodes are parasitic flatworms that infect freshwater snails and can cause changes in metabolic function and growth. Flow rates and water levels are now more variable due to climate change, increasing stress and dislodgment in the snail population. Elimia populations in two different rivers were sampled for differences in parasitism, shell morphology, and ability to withstand high flow environments. Sample sites at the Potomac river were tidal with low flow, while sites at the Rappahannock river were higher flow with pools and riffles. Snails from both sites were randomly sampled and preserved in 95% ethanol. These snails were dissected and measured for shell morphological features, looking specifically at width and aperture (size of shell opening). Shell width in the Potomac has been found to be significantly larger than in the Rappahannock (Wilcoxon p<0.0001). Shell widths and apertures are both significantly larger in infected snails than non-infected snails (Wilcoxon p<0.0001). To measure snails’ response to high flow, approximately 300 snails were collected per sample location and were subjected to a high flow environment (0.7 m/s) for 10 minutes to determine time of dislodgment. Width correlates to time of dislodgment, with wider snails maintaining traction longer in high flow. Trematode infection has a significant correlation with increased width of the shell, and increased width is significantly correlated with a greater ability to withstand high flow.
Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Poster 9: Assessment of the effects of cadmium exposure in the presence of elevated temperatures on embryonic development in the Seminole ramshorn snail (Planorbella duryi)
Joey Gasink, Advisor: Dr. Tyler Frankel
Based on projected modeling, increases in surface water temperatures due to climate change will pose a host of new challenges for poikilothermic aquatic organisms. Additionally, little is known about how this added stressor will interact with the impacts of known environmental contaminants. As such, this study was designed to assess the effects of cadmium exposure on Seminole ramshorn snail (Planorbella duryi) embryonic and adult development under varying temperatures based on predictions from the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs). Freshly laid (<8hr post-deposit) P. duryi embryonic clutches were harvested from an established adult colony and assessed for viability. Individual clutches were then placed into acid-washed 60 × 15 mm glass petri dishes containing 10mL of 0, 3, 5, or 10 ug/L cadmium solution (confirmed using ICP-OES). Plates were then incubated at 20°C (standard assay conditions), 23°C (SSP 2 predictions), or 25°C (SSP5 conditions) for 11 days. Similarly exposed adult individuals were placed into a custom recording chamber, acclimated for 5 minutes, and a 3-minute video obtained and analyzed for differences in locomotor behaviors using Noldus EthoVision XT 17. While this study is still ongoing, we expect to observe a correlation between increased temperature and irregular development, with a subsequent increase in cadmium toxicity at higher temperatures. The results of this study will give a deeper understanding of how sensitivity to trace metal exposure in poikilotherms may be altered by current and future shifts in climate and the potential importance of temperature modifications in current OECD testing methods. - Poster 15: Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Northern Virginia Waterways in Relation to Urbanization
David Nichols, Advisors: Dr. Ben Kisila
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are a class of carcinogenic, persistent organic pollutants that are primarily derived from coal and petroleum products such as coal-tar sealant or gasoline. Increasing population in Northern Virginia and the coinciding acceleration of urban and suburban development have increased road development and usage increasing the potential release of associated PAHs to nearby aquatic ecosystem. 103 sediment grab samples and 4 sediment cores in Northern Virginia waterways (Potomac, Rappahannock, and Occoquan Rivers) were used to evaluate spatial and temporal variability in PAH. Analysis was done for methylphenanthrene and the 16 PAHs that the EPA has identified as most prevalent in sediment (EPA16). Samples were extracted using accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) and analyzed using gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Statistical analysis was done using Pearson correlation analysis (PC), principal component analysis (PCA), and the ratio of methylphenanthrene to phenanthrene (MP/P) was used to estimate the origin of PAH. Total PAH concentration and proximity to potential PAH sources were analyzed, along with the relationship between individual PAHs in each sample.
The preliminary results show that total PAH concentration ranged from 25.2 ppb to 10100 ppb. PCA results showed that methylphenanthrene and methylnaphthalenes were correlated together, while the total PAH concentration correlated more with high molecular weight PAHs. PC showed that waste processing plants and coal ash deposits were found as potential point sources of PAH. Temporal data provided by sediment cores and the changes between the preliminary and concurrent samples will potentially provide historical variability on PAH concentration. - Poster 17: Biodegredation of PHA and PLA Plastics on Aquatic Systems
Holly Anthony, Advisor: Professor John Tippett
Lasting hundreds of years in the environment, micro plastics cause significant biological and ecosystem-level effects. This study looks into the potential of certain new polymers to biodegrade in aquatic environments. In particular, we examine the bio-plastic PHA, which is shelf stable, but marketed as being degradable in the aquatic environment. We compare its degradation to polylactic acid (PLA) which is marketed as “compostable”, but requires industrial composting conditions. - Poster 24: Assessment of Trace Metals and Polyfluoroalkyl Chemicals in Sediment, Water, and Fish Tissues Collected from Mattawoman Creek (Charles County, MD)
Edmund Eric Gable, Advisor: Dr. Tyler Frankel
The Naval Support Facility Indian Head, located in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, serves the U.S. Military as a weapons test and manufacturing facility. The manufacturing of propellants and explosives makes it a potential source of trace metals and polyfluoroalkyl (PFA) chemicals. The Waterkeeper Alliance has detected PFAs in all tested samples obtained from Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia and have also identified Indian Head and Dahlgreen Surface Warfare Center specifically as potential sources. Mattawoman Creek and the downstream Potomac River provide significant biodiversity and ecosystem services, jobs, and drinking water to millions of residents in the DC/Maryland/Virgina region. To assess the presence and concentrations of trace metals and PFAS in Mattawoman creek, sediment, water, and fish tissue samples were collected for analysis of contaminant concentrations. For PFAS analyses, surface water samples were obtained using rinsed and methanol-cleaned 500mL nalgene bottles. A dedicated stainless-steel van veen grab sampler was utilized to collect sediment samples which were deposited into methanol cleaned 1L Nalgene bottles. Trace metal surface water samples were collected in acid washed 125mL Nalgene bottles. Sediment samples were collected using a separate van veen grab sampler and stored on ice during transport. Adult male and female Banded killifish (Fundulus diaphanus) were collected using minnow traps and seine nets from three locations. PFAS samples were analyzed using EPA draft method 1633 for 31 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances using LC-MS/MS. Trace metal samples were digested and analyzed for trace metal element identification and concentrations of these ions using ICP- OES. We expect increased levels of trace metals and PFAs will be found in sediments, water, and tissue samples adjacent to the facility and that tissue contamination will be higher than water due to bioaccumulation factors. If disturbed, these sediments may release contaminants back into surface waters or transport across systems. Our research provides novel information regarding the potential impacts of anthropogenic activity on an important aquatic ecosystem and direction for future studies. - Poster 25: Assessment of Trace Metals and Polyfluoroalkyl Chemicals in Sediment, Water, and Fish Tissues Collected from Mattawoman Creek (Charles County, MD)
Edmund Eric Gable, Advisor: Dr. Tyler Frankel
The Naval Support Facility Indian Head serves the U.S. Military as a weapons test and manufacturing facility. The testing of firefighting foams and munitions makes it a potential source of trace metals and polyfluoroalkyl (PFA) chemicals. The Waterkeeper Alliance has detected PFAs in all tested samples obtained from the Chesapeake watershed and have also identified Indian Head specifically as a potential source. Mattawoman Creek and the downstream Potomac River provide significant ecosystem services and drinking water to millions of residents in the watershed. To assess the presence and concentrations of trace metals and PFAS in Mattawoman creek, sediment, water, and fish tissue samples were collected for analysis of contaminant concentrations. PFAS surface water samples were obtained using methanol-cleaned 500mL nalgene bottles. A dedicated stainless-steel van veen grab sampler was utilized to collect sediment samples which were deposited into methanol cleaned 1L Nalgene bottles. Trace metal surface water samples were collected in acid washed 125mL Nalgene bottles. Sediment samples were collected using a separate van veen grab sampler and stored on ice during transport. Adult male and female Banded killifish (Fundulus diaphanus) were collected using electrofishing from three locations. PFAS samples were analyzed using EPA draft method 1633 for 31 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances using LC-MS/MS. Trace metal samples were digested and analyzed for trace metal element identification and concentrations of these ions using ICP- OES. PFAS and trace metal levels were heightened within the creek and were concentrated at points associated with chemical burning grounds and firefighting foam testing. - Poster 31: Spatio-Temporal and bioaccumulation analysis of trace metal concentrations within sediment and dagger blade grass shrimp in Chincoteague Bay, USA
Katie Burbridge, Advisor: Dr. Ben Kisila
Industrial activities, agricultural expansion and urbanization exacerbates the transfer of sediments and contaminants, including trace metals, to aquatic ecosystems, leading to potential bioaccumulation of toxic elements. This study evaluates trace metals in the sediments of Chincoteague Bay, a lagoon off the coastline of Virginia and Maryland. Thirty (30) surface sediment grab samples, seven (7) sediment cores and dagger blade grass shrimp (Palaemon pugio) were used to analyze the spatio-temporal variability in the sediments. All samples were analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP) for elemental concentrations of Al, As, B, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Pb, Se, Zn, Li, and Ni. Geo Accumulation index (Igeo), enrichment factors (EF), Pollution load index (PLI), Geographic Information System (GIS) based Hot Spot Analysis, and Pearson Correlations (PC) statistical analysis were used to identify potential contamination sources.
Results indicate varying PLI ranges, higher contamination values being spatially adjacent to inland agricultural areas and proximity to roads in Chincoteague urban center. Majority of EFs were significant enrichment (5 < 20) but varied spatially with limited correlation, suggesting multiple trace metal sources. Igeo values ranged from uncontaminated (≤ 0) to moderate to heavy contamination (2-3), collectively increasing near Virginia’s mainland. Hot Spot Analysis suggests trace metal concentrations increase near Wallop flight facility, with exception of arsenic that is higher near Chincoteague urban center. Present results show agriculture, Wallops facility and urbanization as plausible sources of contaminants. - Poster 32: Assessing Trace Metal Bioaccumulation in Several Fish Species Near A Coal Ash Landfill (Dumfries, VA)
Summer Orledge, Advisor: Dr. Tyler Frankel
Coal combustion residuals (CCRs) are rich in persistent trace metals which can leach into adjacent waterways from unlined or lining-compromised repositories. Several of these contaminants function as neurotoxins, hepatotoxins, and/or carcinogens, with demonstrated adverse effects on aquatic organisms and human consumers. Possum Point Power Station (Dumfries, VA) is an inactive coal-fired power plant located by Quantico Creek and the Potomac River. Elevated concentrations of trace metals have previously been found in surficial sediments and banded killifish (Fundulus diaphanus) adjacent to and downstream from the station which have been shown to biomagnify across trophic levels. As such, this research evaluates the presence and concentration of trace metals in several piscivorous fish species near Possum Point Power Station. Northern snakeheads (Channa argus) and redear sunfish (Lepomis microlophus) were sampled from Quantico Creek and upstream reference site Powell’s Creek. Epaxial muscle and gonad tissues were dissected from whole fish and stored at -8°C. Tissues were oven-dried, weighed, digested in 65% HNO3 followed by 30% H2O2 and analyzed for 13 CCR-associated trace metals (Al, As, B, Cd, Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Pb, Se, Zn) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). While this study is still ongoing, our results will allow us to compare uptake between locations, species, and tissue types and assess potential risks to both ecosystem function and commercial or subsistence anglers. - Poster 51: Projecting The Loss of Shark Tooth Island from Sea Level Rise and Land Subsidence
Kate Stoneman, Advisors: Professor John Tippett
Shark Tooth Island, a popular recreational location on the Virginia side of the lower Potomac River, is slowly disappearing. The causes include sea level rise, groundwater withdrawal, and isostatic adjustment. Given the island’s popularity, this presents a unique opportunity to educate the public about real impacts of climate change in a region with high climate-change denialism. The poster is a public-facing explanation of how and why the island is disappearing. - Poster 54: Pilot Environmental Justice Project: Correlating Soil Metals Concentrations and Soil Health with Socioeconomic Factors in a Fredericksburg, Virginia, Soil Survey
Audrey Turner, Lily Hoffman, and Natalie Anderson, Advisor: Dr. Melanie Szulczewski
This pilot project investigated connections between soil quality and environmental justice factors in the city of Fredericksburg, Virginia. We began by using a two-stage cluster sampling method to determine soil sample sites. One census block was randomly selected within each of the twenty census blocks within Fredericksburg, Virginia, according to the 2020 US Census. A composite soil sample from 0-10 cm was collected from public property within the block. We then analyzed the total and bioavailable concentrations of a suite of metals along with multiple soil factors (pH, texture, organic matter content) to be compared with socioeconomic data collected from the 2020 US Census Database. Our preliminary findings indicate that there may be correlations between soil and socioeconomic factors. Lower levels of education were correlated with higher soil concentrations of both total lead and zinc. Higher percentages of white residents were inversely correlated with total concentrations of lead, zinc, and manganese. Higher bioavailable lead concentrations were correlated with higher populations on public assistance. Further samples and analyses are ongoing after finding these correlations.
Chemistry and Physics
- Poster 8: 13 Tone Generator (aka the Beep Boop Machine)
Nathaniel Harvey, Advisor: Professor Rebecca Callaway
I will be making a keyboard-like electronic instrument utilizing an Arduino board. It will be able to play notes in a full 12-tone scale, with various options for sounds that it can make, such as fast arpeggios and different octaves. I also want to add features commonly seen on instruments of this nature, such as volume and pan knobs. In addition, I will be making it a permanent construction and designing a case to hold all of the components in place. - Poster 14: Quantifying Adsorbate-Adsorbate and Adsorbate-Substrate Interactions Using the ABC Isotherm
Grayson Camp, Advisors: Dr. Leanna Giancarlo
Adsorption processes are essential in environmental science and industry, especially for contaminant removal. Many of these adsorption processes have been described utilizing traditional adsorption isotherms such as the Langmuir and Freundlich. Even with these known isotherms, a clear understanding of the underlying adsorbate-adsorbate and adsorbate-substrate interactions has not been achieved. Therefore, using a novel ABC isotherm to account for repulsive interactions between adsorbates at the interface will allow for a better understanding of the adsorption behavior of methylene blue (MB) on activated carbon (AC) and anionic congo red on carbon fiber. For the adsorption behavior of methylene blue on activated carbon using this model, the A parameter (1.85×10^-7) indicates a midrange strength of MB-AC interactions, while the negative B parameter (-5.06×10^-4) shows repulsive forces that are relatively weak. The adsorption behavior of anionic congo red on carbon fiber showed an A parameter of 1.27×10^-2, indicating strong electrostatic interactions between the anionic dye and the positive carbon fiber; the B parameter (18.7) suggests extremely weak repulsive interactions between congo red molecules at the interface. Future research is required to clarify the physical significance of the A, B, and C parameters and to refine the ABC model for systems involving repulsive interactions. Exploring such systems, like those involving methylene blue and anionic organic dyes on carbon substrates, will provide deeper insights into molecular interactions underlying adsorption processes. - Poster 30: Analysis of PPI Toxicity on Jurkat T Lympocytes using Calcien-AM
Caroline Sampson, Advisor: Dr. Randall Reif
Proton Pump inhibitors (PPIs), common in stomach acid medications, have been shown to be toxic to some cancer cells by inhibition of the vascular ATPase proton pump which, under normal conditions, removes protons from the cell. With proton pumps deactivated, accumulation of protons inside the cell generates an acidic environment leading to inhibition of cell growth which can cause cell death. This study investigated the growth rates of Jurkat T Lymphocytes treated with a known chemotherapeutic as the positive control, doxorubicin, and three PPIs: dexlanzoprazole, esomeprazole, and omeprazole at concentrations between 1 and 100 mM. A plate reader was used to measure the fluorescence intensity of living cells stained with calcein-AM from hour 0 to 72. Preliminary data showed that doxorubicin showed statistically significant changes in cell growth by hour 72 compared to the negative control, while all the PPI treatments were not statistically significant at a 95% confidence interval. The growth rates of cells treated with the four drugs at higher concentrations will also be presented. - Poster 38: Removal of Methylene Blue from Water
Rodas Asfaw, Advisor: Dr. Sarah Smith
Additive manufacturing (3D printing) has become a major part of the research area and has been used to design and fabricate flow reactors, flow cells, and separators. The purpose of this experiment was to examine the efficiency of two types of filaments (carbon and non-carbon-based) in adsorbing the common pollutant methylene blue from water electrostatically. To do this, cubes with higher surface area were 3D printed using these filaments. Adsorption studies were then conducted over two days where the cubes’ absorbance and changes in masses were recorded. The surface coverage vs the number of cubes showed a decrease in surface coverage as the number of cubes increased. This contradicted the prediction that surface coverage and absorbance would increase as the number of cubes increased. - Poster 43: Quantification of Spice in Beer using High Performance Liquid Chromatography
Emma Najdzionek, Advisor: Dr. Sarah Smith
The spiciness of the Maltese Brewing Company’s Signal One 2.0 beer was quantified through the use of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The two chemicals responsible for pungency (spice) in peppers are capsaisin and dihydrocapsaicin. Using HPLC, the concentration of these capsaicinoids can be determined and then converted to Scoville heat units (SHU), the globally recognized measurement of pungency. In this study, a standard addition calibration curve was utilized to estimate the capsaicinoid concentrations in the beer. The concentrations of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin were 440 and 128 ppm, respectively. When combined and converted to SHU, this equated to 10,640 SHU, approximately as spicy as a jalapeño pepper. However, this value is lower than expected. It is possible the pungency of the sample decreased over time, leading to lower capsaicinoid concentrations. - Poster 50: Method Development to Quantify Explosives in Marine Sediments Near Dahlgren Naval Base
Marina Klein, Emily Hart, Advisors: Dr. Sarah Smith and Dr. Tyler Frankel
The Dahlgren Naval Base has been testing explosives in the Potomac River since the 1920s. The chemicals used to produce these explosives have been proven to be detrimental to aquatic ecosystems and human health. To quantify the concentrations of these chemicals, a Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) method and calibration curve were developed from a standard comprised of 17 known explosive compounds. 20 samples from various locations along the river were concentrated using a rotary evaporator and analyzed using the developed method. Samples located near the base and downstream were determined to have a larger quantity and intensity of peaks on the chromatograms when compared to the ones upstream. The peaks observed on the chromatograms were consistent with a carbohydrate-based fuel. Further experimentations revealed a correlation between exposure to UV light and degradation of explosive chemicals. Samples will be recollected with consideration to temperature and light exposure. - Poster 72: Drone-induced Water Circulation
Boone Fleenor, Advisor: Dr. Matthew Fleenor
This research focuses on the impact of a drone flying above a body of water on the water’s circulation. This study is important because it would be more economically and logistically feasible to make water property measurements using a drone with a suspended sensor than using in-situ sensors. Understanding the drone-inducted water circulation enables an assessment of how much the drone’s presence may alter or change any measured water properties relative to an in-situ sensor or an undisturbed flow. To examine this phenomena, particle image velocimetry (PIV), which is a non-intrusive flow measurement technique, was used to measure the flow under a drone while it hovered above the water. Measurements were performed beneath the center of the drone body and under a blade. Three nominal air flow speeds induced by the drone were examined: 5 m/s, 7.5 m/s, and 10 m/s. PIV measurements are ensemble averaged (n ~ 500) to investigate the flow patterns underneath the drone.
Music Technology
- Poster 10: 3D modeling and production of Bagpipes
Joe Haun, Advisor: Prof. Rebecca Callaway
The goal of this project was to investigate the production 3D printed bagpipe components in order to learn how they can be made in the most optimal and efficient way. By creating new models and adapting prototype models it was determined that it is possible to improve the design of 3D printed bagpipes. - Poster 52: Electric Guitar Design
Daniel Paluh, Advisor: Prof. Rebecca Callaway
The purpose of this project was to construct a circuit that can not only read incoming MIDI notes and output the corresponding sound of the note, but also send a signal to RGB lights and display colors. The RGB lights will display a color that is determined from three sets of values ranging from 0 to 255. These values correspond to the amount of red, green, and blue in the final color. The Arduino Uno board’s light, denoted with an ‘L’, will flash when receiving a MIDI note. At the same time, the RGB will display two differing colors that are to change when each note is pressed.
