Abstracts

Abstract 2: “Glial Inflammation Markers for Chronic Stress in the Rat Brain”. Anton Milan Brkic. Advised by Dr. John Douglass, Dept. of Biology. Chronic stress is associated with suicidal behaviors in humans, yet the causal mechanism remains unclear. Our study investigated neurophysiological changes in chronically stressed rats, focusing on the brain regions for motivational and affective states, including the nucleus accumbens and dorsal raphe nucleus. Using multiplexed immunofluorescence and morphometric analysis to assess inflammation in microglia and astrocytes, this research aims to establish a role for the brain in mediating the complex relationship between stress and maladaptive behaviors.

Abstract 3: “Traffic noise as an environmental stressor for Pseudotsuga menziesii and Thuja plicata“. Megan Sides. Advised by Dr. Ryan Ferrer, Dept. of Biology. Plants are capable of sensing soundwaves and vibrations despite their lack of specialized sensory organs and can cause stress signals in many plants. Conifer trees have not yet been studied in their reactions to vibration and sound, so the stress indicators (monoterpenes) of Douglas fir and western red cedar were compared at locations adjacent to highways to identify the impact of traffic noise as a stressor.

Abstract 4: “Load carriage, energetics, and stability: A wider pelvis is more energetically efficient”. Eloisa Nguyen. Advised by Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler, Dept. of Biology. Load carriage is an energetically costly practice performed across cultures to transport resources. Cost of transport (COT) was collected under different loads: unloaded, head-loaded, baby loaded, and head-and-baby loaded. From a multi-factorial ANOVA using relatively wide and narrow pelvis categories, COT increases with mass and with load (p<0.001) and COT decreases within the wide pelvic group (p=0.002). These findings imply a wider pelvis increases stability, decreasing the energetic cost of an individual when doing a challenging loaded task.

Abstract 5: “The Interplay of Social Relationships and Gait Changes during Head-load Carrying: Gender Variations”. Anastasiya Bondarchuk. Advised by Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler, Dept. of Biology. Head load carrying has been around for centuries and is frequently done in social settings; the presence of a partner and that companion's gender can affect the gait of an individual. Four walking conditions were recorded for this study: unloaded alone, loaded alone, unloaded friend, and loaded friend. These conditions allowed for the collection of speed and gait data for analysis of how they may affect stride length of an individual.

Abstract 6: “Salmon mislabeling rates uncovered in sushi restaurants and grocery stores in Seattle”. Jewel Garcia. Advised by Dr. Tracie Delgado, Dept. of Biology. Salmon mislabeling, in which a sample’s claimed species by the seller does not match its genetic identity, is a serious threat to market integrity. Using DNA isolation and DNA sequencing, we found the salmon mislabeling rate of sushi restaurants vs grocery stores in Seattle. Our data shows that restaurants had a significantly higher mislabeling rate of salmon samples compared to grocery stores (23.1% to 13.4% respectively). Future analysis of the data will also be presented.

Abstract 7: “Impact of Metabolic Regulation by AMPK-activator Metformin on MHV-68 production”. Yolanda Mendoza and Alessandro Rizzi. Advised by Dr. Tracie Delgado, Dept. of Biology. Gamma-herpesviruses represent significant clinical targets due to being oncogenic viruses. By targeting various metabolic pathways within host cells, it is hypothesized that viral reliance on host metabolism can be disrupted. In this study, we examined the effect of Metformin on MHV-68 viral production in infected NIH-373 cells. Our results indicate no significant difference observed in viral production between Metformin-treated and non-treated groups, suggesting a potential MHV-68 compensation for the effects of Metformin using alternative pathways.

Abstract 8: “Exploring the use of FDA approved ɑ-Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) and Orlistat as gammaherpesvirus antiviral drug”. Lay Paw. We use murine gammaherpesvirus-68 (MHV-68) as a model system because it shares homology with two human oncogenesis herpesviruses. The Delgado lab metabolomics analysis observed an increase in polyamine and lipid metabolism in MHV-68 infected cells. ɑ-Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) and Orlistat, clinically relevant metabolic inhibitor drugs, block polyamine and lipid production respectively. Using drug safety tests and viral plaque assays, I found Orlistat did not hinder viral production, but DFMO demonstrated a 3.5-fold reduction in viral production.

Abstract 9: "Assessing the Validity of Methotrexate as a Potential Antiviral Drug".  Colby Cribbs and Sean Chang. This study investigates the efficacy of methotrexate (MX) in inhibiting murine gammaherpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) production within NIH3T3 cells. After a safe level of drug was established through cell health viability and respective kill curves, we determined that MX retained the capability to significantly reduce viral production evident via plaque assays. These findings highlight MX's potential to exist as a therapeutic agent against MHV-68 infection; offering valuable insights for the future of antiviral treatments.

Abstract 10: “Assessing the antiviral activity of 6-aminonicotinamide, Leflunomide, and Metformin on murine gammaherpesvirus-68 (MHV-68) production in vitro”. Sara Hartman. Oncogenic virus MHV-68 upregulates intermediates of cellular metabolic pathways to replicate efficiently. Leflunomide (LF) and Metformin (MET) are clinically relevant inhibitors of metabolic enzymes. 6-aminonicotinamide (6-AN) inhibits nucleotide metabolism. Drug safety studies determined optimal drug concentrations. Cell viability was quantified post-infection and treatment in triplicate. Plaque assays demonstrated that a 35uM 6-AN or 30uM LF dose significantly decreased MHV-68 production in NIH3T3 cells. A 15mM MET dose insignificantly decreased viral load by 17%.

Abstract 11: "Trophic tinkle: Predator pee fails to frighten foragers and conifer chemistry depends on deer damage".  Ava Liebendorfer, Gum Nau, and Kenzie Garrett. Advised by Dr. Ryan Ferrer, Dept. of Biology.  We examined chemically-mediated interactions on Blakely Island between wolves, deer, and conifers. Because wolves have been absent from Blakely for over a century, we hypothesized that their urine odors would not be recognized by deer as threatening. Shifting deer foraging might impact conifer populations or defensive chemistry. Cameras captured deer behavior at sites with wolf or cow urine (control) and quantified browsing damage on conifer saplings. We used GC-MS to measure changes in conifer chemistry.

Abstract 12: "Survivorship of Columbian Black Tail deer harvested in a predator free environment".  Elise Greene, Megan Popielak, and Olivia Stewart.  Advised by Dr. Eric Long, Dept. of Biology. We determined the survivorship of hunter-killed Columbian Black-Tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) on Blakely Island, a predator-free environment in the San Juan Archipelago, Washington, USA. We compared this with the survivorship of naturally-killed deer on the island to determine if hunters are fulfilling the same role as natural processes. The first molar from the jaw of each deer was extracted, processed, and the cementum rings were counted to determine the age of death.

Abstract 13: "Survivorship of natural death black tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) on Blakely Island, Washington".  Ashley Goss and Felicity Young.  Advised by Dr. Eric Long and Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler, Dept. of Biology.  Age-specific survivorship of a high-density population of black-tailed deer that live on predator-free Blakely Island was analyzed. Age at death for naturally killed deer was estimated by removing the first lower molar of each specimen and counting cementum rings. We constructed a survivorship profile of deer on Blakely Island and compared survivorship of males to females, as well as comparing deer survivorship on Blakey Island to deer survivorship on the mainland.

Abstract 14: "Using DNA sequencing to determine salmon species mislabeling rate across Seattle grocery stores". Kayla Case, Asmaa Al-awadi, Elizabeth Delgado.  Our research project involved determining if salmon samples across different grocery stores in Seattle were properly labeled. To determine this for each sample, the DNA was isolated, amplified by PCR, sequenced, and compared against known sequences of salmon species in the BLAST database. Of the 8 samples we isolated, 1 was mislabeled. Overall class data showed 13.4% of salmon samples were mislabeled, emphasizing the importance of accurate labeling and consumer awareness in the grocery industry.

Abstract 15: "A Problem with Salmon Mislabeling in Seattle Grocery Stores?"  Madelyn Rice, Weston Hanson, and Yolanda Mendoza.  This study took a deep dive into the world of salmon mislabeling focusing on Seattle grocery stores. To identify if our samples were mislabeled, we underwent the following procedure: DNA isolation, PCR, and finally BLASTed our results to see percentage matches. The results revealed that 15.5% of the wild (Pacific) and farmed (Atlantic) salmon samples were mislabeled. Our study underscores the urgent need for enhanced traceability measures and regulatory oversight to combat salmon mislabeling effectively.

Abstract 16: "Determining the rate of salmon mislabeling in grocery stores in Seattle".  Nguyen Nguyen, Sara Dean, and Alexander Heller. This study examines the rate of salmon mislabeling from chain and local grocery stores in the Seattle area. Methods include DNA isolation, whole genome amplification by PCR, DNA sequencing, and DNA analysis through the BLAST website. Four out of nine samples were mislabeled. Additionally, total class results showed an overall 13.4% mislabeled salmon samples rate, which was a low percentage of mislabeling. It's still concerning that mislabeling isn’t uncommon for salmon to be mislabeled.

Abstract 17: "Are Grocery Stores Lying to You? A Pacific Salmon Mislabeling Project".  Madison Knoke and Abby Dean.  In this genetics research project we collected samples of salmon from Seattle grocery stores. We used various methods to purify the DNA, including isolation, quantification, and PCR. The DNA was sent to a Fred Hutch to be analyzed and we input the DNA sequences into the BLAST database to identify mislabeling rates. Our results showed 0 out of 6 of our personal samples were mislabeled and 13.4% of our Genetics class samples were mislabeled overall.

Abstract 18: "Methotrexate as an antiviral drug treatment against MHV-68 in an in vitro model".  Keton Johnson and Yenni Gaspar. Murine herpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) serves as a model for studying the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Kaposi’s sarcoma virus (KSHV). Previous research revealed that MHV-68 relies on glucose, glutamine, and lipogenesis metabolic pathways. We quantitatively analyzed the FDA-approved nucleotide biosynthesis inhibitor Methotrexate (MX). The drug safety concentration of MX was first determined by conducting two kill curves. After completing 3 trials of MX treatment, plaque assays showed MX was a potent antiviral drug.

Abstract 19: "Implications of Metformin dosage on MHV-68 viral production".  Anton Milan Brkic and Jewel Garcia.  Murine gammaherpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) is genetically similar to human herpesvirus strains are known to cause cancer. Metformin is an FDA approved drug used to treat diabetes by inhibiting 2 pathways that are also important for MHV-68 replication: glycolysis and lipogenesis. Using kill curve trials to find a safe level of drug and viral plaquing techniques, our research aims to see if virus production from MHV-68 infected NIH3T3 cells decreases in the presence of various metformin doses.

Abstract 20: “Assessing the Antiviral Activity of Metformin”. Sara Dean and Jonathan Dean. Murine herpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) serves as model system to understand how herpesviruses cause cancer. This study investigated the effects of metformin to inhibit the viral replication of MHV-68 in NIH3T3 cells by targeting lipid and glucose metabolism. Two kill curve methods determined safe and effective MET concentrations and plaque assays were used to quantify viral titers. Results showed limited antiviral activity of MET, suggesting decreased efficacy as an antiviral drug.

Abstract 21: "Utilizing Selective Whole Genome Amplification (SWGA) to enrich clinical samples of Mycoplasma genitalium for genetic sequencing".  Ethan Wood, Ashley Goss, Abbie Dill, and Marjolene Allossogbe. Mycoplasma genitalium (Mg) is a sexually transmitted bacterium that causes nongonococcal urethritis and endometritis. Current methods of culturing Mg clinical samples are time-consuming and require Vero co- culture up to a year before samples may be sequenced to assess for mutations linked to doxycycline resistance. This presentation showcases how SWGA can enrich Mg DNA in Vero co-cultures, reducing processing time and expanding sequence coverage, allowing for the identification of doxycycline-resistant mutations.

Abstract 22: "Sequencing of Mycoplasma genitalium (Mg) from Paired Urine and Vero Clinical Samples using Selective Whole Genome Amplification (SWGA)".  Mariama Conteh, Lay Paw, Akira Copeland, and Savannah Meyer. Mycoplasma genitalium (Mg) is a sexually transmitted bacterium that can cause reproductive inflammatory diseases. Growing Mg from a patient’s urine in Vero co-culture currently takes six months, limiting its clinical value. Using SWGA, we were able to amplify Mg DNA in both urine samples and Vero co-culture for use in long read MinIon sequencing. Direct sequencing from urine allows clinically relevant genome wide analyses in days rather than months.

Abstract 23: "Identifying mutations in a Mycoplasma genitalium strain resistant to first line antibiotics azithromycin, doxycycline, and moxifloxacin using SWGA enrichment and Minion sequencing".  Jacqueline Oh, Thania Allossogbe, Nguyen Nguyen, and Jonathan Savell.  Mycoplasma genitalium (Mg) causes nongonococcal urethritis, cervicitis and pelvic inflammatory disease. This study examines Mg samples from a patient who failed treatment with first line antibiotics azithromycin, doxycycline, and moxifloxacin. Samples taken throughout the treatment series were enriched using Selective Whole Genome Amplification and analyzed using long range MinION sequencing. A mutation was identified in the parC gene as the source of moxifloxacin resistance which allows future tracking of this strain.

Abstract 24: "Analysis of Methyltransferase genes in Hypsibius exemplaris to determine involvement in germline development and apoptosis". Mariama Conteh. Advised by Dr. Jenny Tenlen, Dept. of Biology. Hypsibius exemplaris have extreme tolerance to many environmental challenges making them an easy lab specimen. Little is known about germline development in tardigrades so using RNA interference to silence genes will help us learn gene involvement. So far, bioinformatics has been done using BLAST to identify possible sequences for our target genes. We are currently working to create primers to perform PCR. Understanding tardigrade germline development leads to insights in genetic conservation modeled in humans.

Abstract 25: "The Effects of Social Isolation, Diet, and Sex on Behavioral Flexibility in Rats". Graysen Delich, Ellie Jancola, Emily McCurry, and Madelyn Rice. Advised by Dr. Philip Baker, School of Psychology and Family Counseling. The present study investigates the effects of social isolation and a high-fat diet on animal behavioral flexibility, considering potential sex differences. Thirty-two rats were divided into four conditions based on housing condition and diet, then tested in a maze-based behavioral flexibility task. We anticipate the most significant decline in behavioral flexibility in the socially isolated, high-fat diet male group. Additionally, we'll be analyzing the impact of these conditions on localized neuroinflammation.

Abstract 26: "Green Algae at 30m have Higher Photosynthetic Yields Compared to Algae from Shallower Depths". Kyle Henderson. Advised by Dr. Tim Nelson, Dept. of Biology. We measured the gross photosynthesis of mesophotic (low light) green algae communities from varying depths at different light intensities.

Abstract 27: "Developing a PCR Protocol on Sex-differentiated Genes in Black-tailed Deer (Odocoileus hemionous columbianus) Tissue". Elizabeth Horton and Caleb Struve. Advised by Dr. Jenny Tenlen, Dept. of Biology. Our research seeks to investigate the cause of a disparate sex ratio among black-tailed deer on Blakely Island, by sexing juvenile deer skulls. The focus of our research is to develop a protocol that demonstrates consistent results with our primers. Methodical troubleshooting of relevant variables (annealing temperature, tissue samples, primers etc.) from relatively easy to difficult issues have been addressed. We hope to demonstrate solutions that optimize our protocol.

Abstract 28: "Effects of Social Isolation and Diet on Sex Differences in Long-Evans Rat Pain Sensitivity". Ian Campuzano, Liberty Estrella, Elizabeth Krantz, and Erica Sanchez. Advised by Dr. Philip Baker, School of Psychology and Family Counseling. In this study, we are investigating how diet and isolation will moderate sex differences in pain sensitivity among Long-Evans rats. Historically, studies have used socially isolated or male rats in their experiments on pain sensitivity, which may have impacted their results. We assessed pain over time while manipulating social isolation and diet to determine interactions between these variables. We hypothesize that pain sensitivity will be increased by a high fat diet and/or social isolation.

Abstract 29: "Algae cover increase off South Water Caye, Belize". Megan Sides. Advised by Dr. Tim Nelson, Dept. of Biology. A longitudinal study of the South Water Caye’s algae and seagrass cover has been ongoing biyearly since 1995. Previous years have had relatively consistent algae and seagrass cover, but in 2023 the algae and seagrass had a much higher average than any previous year. This spike in algae cover is likely due to repeated hurricanes stirring up additional nutrients into the water.

Abstract 30: "Succession and forest maturation decrease population density of black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) on Blakely Island, WA". Spencer Raymond. Advised by Dr. Eric Long, Dept. of Biology. Changes in forest management, particularly a decrease in large-scale logging, causes the forest to mature as the canopy closes, thus decreasing early seral habitat availability for forest browsers like deer. Using line-transect distance sampling, we observed a significant long-term deer population density decrease of 5.85% per year from 2010-2023, with a current estimate of 12.1 deer/km2. However, population density remains too high to allow for adequate regeneration of Douglas fir and Western redcedar saplings.

Abstract 31: "Assessment of the Anti-viral Properties of Two Nucleotide Metabolic Inhibitors". Ben Sheirbon. Advised by Dr. Tracie Delgado, Dept. of Biology. Murine herpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) serves as a model for understanding how viruses cause cancer. This research is focused on repurposing clinically relevant metabolic inhibitors with potential to serve as anti-viral therapies. I have determined optimal concentrations of fluorouracil and methotrexate via drug safety studies and assessed their effects on viral proliferation with plaque assays. Preliminary data shows that methotrexate is a potent MHV-68 antiviral while fluorouracil is still being assessed.

Abstract 32: "Is It Really Salmon?" Marie Hafez. Advised by Dr. Tracie Delgado, Dept. of Biology. The goal of my research was to determine if 3 Salmon samples I obtained from 3 separate grocery stores were correctly labeled or mislabeled. The methods included DNA isolation and quantification, PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, and Salmon species identification using BLAST bioinformatics. My results showed 1 of my 3 samples were mislabeled. Additionally, overall class results identified that 13.4% of grocery Salmon samples were mislabeled. This project presents the detailed process and final results of the mislabeling.

Abstract 1: "Using Capture-SELEX and MinION Sequencing to Develop a Luminescent, Lanthanide RNA Aptamer". Jonathan Savell. Advised by Dr. Wade Grabow, Dept. of Chemistry and Biochemistry. RNA carries out many critical functions beyond protein synthesis, but the purpose of many non-coding RNAs (ncRNA) remains unknown. This project demonstrates the viability of a luminescent, lanthanide probe which binds and detects a target RNA molecule. Using Capture-SELEX and qPCR, optimal target sequences were selected for and sequenced with MinION technology. These target ncRNA strands can be attached to the 5’ or 3’ of any RNA, allowing for universal use of this probe.

Abstract 33: “Design, Synthesis, and Characterization of False Fluorescent Aspartames as Potential Fluorescent Ligands for GPCRs”. John Lee. Advised by Dr. Minhee Lee, Dept. of Chemistry & Biochemistry. GPCRs are a diverse class of cellular membrane receptors that are able to receive and amplify signals throughout the cell. These receptors are of great interest due to their biological and medicinal functions. One such GPCR is the T1R receptor. This is the "sweetness" taste receptor, but it has many additional functions within the body. Three fluorescent analogs of aspartame were synthesized to better characterize and study this receptor.

Abstract 34: “Photophysical Studies of Under-chelated Lanthanide Complex systems in the Presence of Various Anions of Biological Importance”. Olivia Brooks. Advised by Dr. Minhee Lee, Dept. of Chemistry & Biochemistry. Tb-DO2A-Cs124 (DO2A), Tb-DOTA-Cs124 (DOTA), and Tb-NO3A-Cs124 (NO3A) are luminescent terbium complexes designed to study luminescence changes in response to various bound anions. They consist of an organic carbostyril-124 antenna and a hexa-dentate (DO2A and NO3A) or octa-dentate (DOTA) chelate bound to a Tb3+ ion. Notably, we found that DO2A's luminescence significantly increases in the presence of citrate. We aim to employ this phenomenon in monitoring citrate synthase enzyme activity, offering a valuable tool for researchers.

Abstract 35: "Stability and Size in Solution of Diverse Lipocalins". Madeline E. Crawford. Advised by Dr. Ben McFarland, Dept. of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Lipocalin proteins bind and transport small hydrophobic molecules. When unstable, they misfold and aggregate. Three were tested for stability: the blue protein 3A and two yellow proteins, ICEX and IC1. Absorbance changes were observed in the visible region upon addition of denaturant urea or increased temperature, with different apparent cooperativities. FPLC purification showed the ratios of aggregated to non-aggregated protein. The results will be combined to rank stability of the proteins and develop binding assays.

Abstract 58: "Optimizing the Synthesis Route for the Synthesis for the synthesis of Two Cobalt(III) Complexes of Strong N-Donors with Sulfonamide Links". Gum Nau and Lay Paw. Advised by Dr. Nerissa Lewis, Dept. of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Our goal is to optimize the synthetic protocol used to prepare two new sulfonamide ligands, pyppzSO2R (R = Me2Nnap = 5-(dimethylamino)naphthyl) and coumarin = benzopyran-2-one) and their respective (Cl or CH3)Co(DH)2(py) (DH = monoanion of dimethylglyoxime) complexes in good yield. Specifically, we explore the effect of solvent and reaction time on yield and purity of each product. This study contributes to the development of new linkage chemistry aimed at exploiting coordination chemistry for preparing bioconjugates with potential targeting properties.

Abstract 36: “Chef’s Compass”. Anudari Batsaikhan, Johnnie Tran, Binh Pham, Mark Clemmer, and Nidhi Mejadiya. Chef's Compass is a platform that simplifies your culinary journey. Create, store, and share recipes, plan meals with a convenient meal planner, and let it automatically generate your grocery lists. It's your recipe repository, meal planner, and grocery helper, all in one place. Enjoy cooking like never before with Chef's Compass!

Abstract 37: “ECS Tool Checkout (ETC)". Aman Siid, Mohammed Mahmood, Le Duy An Tran, Michael Sun, and Karena Qian. We are team ERC, and our project is a web application called “ECS Tool Checkout (ETC)” whose purpose is making engineering lab tools easier to manage and access. Our goal is to make an intuitive inventory system that engineer lab coordinators can use to document lab tool information and monitor tool location and usage, and a streamlined reservation and check-in/check-out system that students, faculty, and staff can use to access the lab tools easily.

Abstract 38: "SPU GradPro". Daniel Adebayo, Karthik Kachana, Azhar Amir Kimanje, Emil Parappuram, and Dapeng Wang. GradPro is a 3D Game made in Unity that takes the player through the college experience of a Computer Science major and aims to gamify the learning process. The game is based in Otto Miller Hall and features minigames to learn specific concepts with test levels to advance through the years of college.

Abstract 39: "JuiceBox". Dillon Goicoechea, Kade Samson, Garrett Crites, and Matthew Fisk. "Introducing JuiceBox, your gateway to the fascinating world of fluid dynamics. JuiceBox simplifies the experience, removing unnecessary buttons and creating an intuitive, interactive platform that's as beautiful as it is educational. Designed with classrooms in mind, JuiceBox offers a simplistic 2D fluid simulator that gets students excited about physics. JuiceBox runs in real-time, ensuring more engaging interactions between users and the fluid, turning learning into a captivating experience. "

Abstract 40: "hngr". Ryan Watson, Parker Landon, Ilya Bukhalau, and Case Wright. Hngr is an iOS app we've built to redefine restaurant discovery and recommendations. We believe a single trusted review from a friend holds more value than the consensus of 10,000 strangers. Hngr allows users to create and curate content for their friends. Instead of relying on the crowdsourced opinions of strangers, hngr empowers individuals to express their experiences to the people who will value their experience the most.

Abstract 41: "Graduation Planning App (GPA)". Adalberto Acosta, Kaddijatou Baldeh, Steven Aziz, Sam McFarland, and Matthew Negasi. Advised by Professor Andy Cameron, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. The Graduation Planning App (GPA) is an exciting new application designed to simplify academic planning and optimize the journey of students at SPU. GPA knows each student’s graduation requirements and SPU’s course offerings and automatically suggests a plan for how to take the required courses to graduate. By automating and refining academic advising, GPA will free up valuable advisor time, increase scheduling accuracy, and enhance student satisfaction at SPU.

Abstract 42: "Intention". Raj Dhillon, Houston Tu, ZhiMin Yan, Mikhael Soebroto, and Ari Salehpour. A personalized digital rolodex integrated with AI features that allow for frictionless communication and follow-ups.

Abstract 43: "Automated Bridge Vibration Experiment".  Donovahn Allen, Viktor Vu, Carrie Cox, and Kaleb Nakanelua.  Advised by Dr. Lin Liu, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science.  Team DVCK’s goal is to design an experimental demonstration kit that can be used in an educational setting to teach students about bridge design, bridge loading, and the resonant frequencies of structures. The device will provide an affordable hands-on learning experience for students in engineering and physics courses.

Abstract 44: "Breathe EZ - Automated BVM". Ebby Rensink, Handrae Henthorn, Abigail Young, and Diego Camacho-Valadez. Advised by Dr. Lin Liu, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. Our team is working on revolutionizing emergency responder healthcare with an automated BVM device, Breathe-EZ. Prioritizing Reliability, Cost, Safety, and User-Friendliness, our solution integrates cutting-edge engineering to alleviate physical stress on EMTs and healthcare workers. By automating ventilation processes, our portable device ensures consistent rescue breaths in diverse settings. Inspired by the need for enhanced efficiency and comfort, Breathe-EZ is a solution where manual emergency ventilation is no longer necessary, empowering responders to save lives effortlessly.

Abstract 45: "SwiftLift".  Owen Smith and Kainoa Lee.  Advised by Dr. Lin Liu, Professor Gina Howe and Dr. Daniel Keene, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science.  Two-cylinder hydraulic jack.

Abstract 46: "Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention Device". Joel Martin, Megan Rouse, and Anna Rogers. Advised by Dr. Lin Liu, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a common and severe health complication affecting 300,000 individuals annually in the U.S. alone. Caused by clotting in the veins of the lower leg, it is theorized that DVT can be treated by applying localized pressure to the lower leg, but no existing product on the market is capable of doing this. Our product seeks to fill this market gap and provide a treatment to a serious and severe ailment.

Abstract 47: "Deploy-A-Pad".  Valentino Guevara, Thomas Morton, and Marco Fernandez.  Advised by Dr. Lin Liu and Dr. James Walker, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science.  Our senior design project, the Deploy-A-Pad, is a disaster relief shelter designed for ease of shipping and rapid deployment. It provides temporary housing post-disaster in warm climates, supporting one person with sleeping space, lighting, water filter, and cooling. Featuring motorized functionality for automatic raising and lowering, it maintains compactness, with a tarp outer layer providing protection from the elements, while raised also being raised off the ground.

Abstract 48: "The Effects of PNF Stretching on the Hip Muscle’s Agonist-Antagonist Relationship and their Range of Motion". Elizabeth Brown and Jake Savary. Advised by Dr. Katie Butte and Dr. Dale Cannavan, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. This presentation is about our research study which was conducted throughout our 4th year at Seattle Pacific University. This research study aimed to find how proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching affects the hip muscles and their range of motion. This study helps further research in sport injury management, rehabilitation, and general fitness.

Abstract 49: "The Effects of Foam Rolling the Lower Body on Countermovement Jump Height". Aniya Green. Advised by Dr. Katie Butte, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. The project is focused on determining the effects of foam rolling the lower body (calves, hamstrings, piriformis, and quadriceps) on jumping performance in Seattle, Washington at Seattle Pacific University.

Abstract 50: "The Relationship Between Music Tempos and Resting Metabolic Rate". Kirsten Lewis, Anastasia Bonifacio, and Wesley Ren. Advised by Dr. Katie Butte and Dr. Dale Cannavan, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. College students experience stress on a regular basis; eight out of ten report experiencing stress. To cope with it, college students often resort to the strategy of listening to music. Music has the capability to enhance human life through various means. Several studies have analyzed energy expenditure (EE) during exercise while listening to music. However, there has been no study that solely focused on the relationship between EE and resting metabolic rate (RMR) during periods of rest and inactivity. Therefore, this study examines the relationship between music tempos and resting metabolic rate in college students.

Abstract 51: "Effects of PNF Stretching of the Quadriceps and Hip Flexors on Hamstring-to-Quadricep Strength Ratio in NCAA DII Athletes". Hannah Hair, Evan Carpenter, and Joel Martin. Advised by Dr. Katie Butte and Dr. Dale Cannavan, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. This study aimed to discover an intervention that would decrease the occurrence of hamstring strain injuries in high level athletes. Participants’ force production during knee flexion and extension was collected to analyze hamstring to quadricep strength ratio. A stretching protocol was then performed on the participants and their strength was reevaluated. The investigators’ hypothesis was that the stretching protocol would improve the athletes’ hamstring to quadricep strength ratio, therefore decreasing their risk of injury.

Abstract 52: "Potentiating Effects of a Blood Flow Restricted Warm-Up on Vertical Jump Performance in Recreationally Active Adults". Andrea Bui and Charisma Smith. Advised by Dr. Dale Cannavan and Dr. Katie Butte, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. This study looks at the acute effects of lower limb blood flow restriction during a standardized warm-up protocol on vertical jump performance in healthy and recreationally active adults.

Abstract 53: "Human Health and Outdoor Lighting: A Multidisciplinary, Systematic Review of Current Research". Kellie Grover. Advised by Dr. Andrea Wilkerson, Pacific Northwest Research Institute. A growing body of research suggests outdoor electric and vehicular lighting is associated with various health problems. However, there is a lack of systematic literature reviews on the health impacts of such outdoor lighting. I present a multidisciplinary, systematic literature review of current research regarding the relationship between outdoor lighting and human health. The papers reviewed offered varying results regarding how outdoor light impacts human health, sometimes in direct opposition.

Abstract 54: "Modeling the Effects of Illegal Logging in Brazil". Gloria Choe, Rachel Gunawan, and John Lee. Advised by Dr. Wai Lau, Dept. of Mathematics. This report discusses the issue of illegal logging of Ipe trees in Brazil, highlighting its detrimental effects on the environment, economy, and society. It proposes a 5-year plan to combat illegal logging, focusing on increasing enforcement, improving tracking systems, and expanding protected areas. The plan aims to reduce illegal logging and promote sustainable forest management. It emphasizes the importance of public support and financial self-sufficiency for successful implementation.

Abstract 55: "An Analysis of Learning Statistics". Cynthia Nyguen, Ari Salehpour, and Emily Blue. Advised by Dr. Brian Gill, Dept. of Mathematics. DataFest is a competition where teams are given two days to analyze a large, complex, and real dataset from a data donor. Our team participated in the 2024 DataFest and analyzed user data from an educational website, developing research questions to improve user experience. We collaborated to produce insights and visualizations to communicate our results. Due to non-disclosure agreements, we cannot reveal specifics until after May 1st.

Abstract 56: "Like A Good Neighbor..." Carrie Cox, Holly Walworth, and Cynthia Nguyen. Advised by Dr. Wai Lau, Dept. of Mathematics. In completion of the Mathematical Contest in Modeling of 2024, we explore the sustainability of property insurance as climate change increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters, and cause mass destruction to lives and property. We developed a model for property insurance companies to use to determine areas to underwrite policies in. We also created a decision tree model community leaders can use to assess the priority of historic sites and areas to protect.

Abstract 57: “Bridging Physics and Climate Change: Exploring Rwandan High School Students' Understanding of Heat and Temperature to Analyze Climate Change-Induced Precipitation Patterns”. Esther Mutesi. Advised by Dr. Lisa Goodhew, Dept. of Physics. In preparation for our investigation, questions were formulated to explore Rwandan high school students' understanding of climate change's impact on precipitation patterns and thermal physics concepts. Two sets of interviews were conducted at Groupe Scholaire Twimpala in Bugesera District, involving different groups of students aged 18. Preliminary findings show beliefs about solar radiation's role in temperature changes and evaporation. This highlights the need for nuanced education on climate dynamics and thermal physics among students.