Student Presentations (by discipline)

Biology

Presentation 1: Grace Barthelmess, Mollie Brown, Lexi Hellums, Mary Lerwick, and Eric Lopit. "Survivorship of Columbian black-tailed deer on a predator-free island." Advised by Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]We investigated the survivorship of a high-density population of black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) on Blakely Island, a predator-free island in the San Juan Archipelago, Washington, USA. We examined survivorship curve type and sex-specific survivorship using skulls that were opportunistically collected from the island. Teeth were extracted, sectioned, and microscopically analyzed to determine age of death according to cementum annuli.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 2: Lizzie VanBrunt. "Exogenous Glutamate Increases Long-Distance Plant Defense Signaling." Advised by Dr. Charlotte Pratt, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Glutamate is part of the long-distance defense pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana. Hydrogen peroxide produced after wounding is neutralized by peroxidase. To test whether additional glutamate could increase defense signaling, leaves were wounded and treated with glutamate, aspartate, or water. Peroxidase activity was measured in unwounded leaves after 24 hours using a colorimetric assay. The data indicate that applying exogenous glutamate increased the peroxidase activity in A. thaliana.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 3: Jacob Medjo, Brynna Hansen and Zoie Bailey. "Adaptive immune response and fluctuation of the ectocervical microbiome in pig-tailed macaques infected with Mycoplasma genitalium." Advised by Dr. Derek Wood, Dept. of Biology and Dr. Gwendolyn Wood, University of Washington. [abstract]Mycoplasma genitalium (Mg) is a sexually transmitted pathogen that causes urethritis in men and cervicitis in women. Oxford Nanopore MinION sequencing characterized the cervicovaginal microbiota over an 18-week MG infection in three pig-tailed macaques to investigate a possible relationship with immunoglobulin levels. We found that microbiota diversity is not disrupted by an MG infection, instead prevalence of bacterial genera fluctuates, independent of MgpB/C-specific IgG levels.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 4: Victoria Bowman, Gio Gonzalez and Morgan McGovern. "The cervicovaginal microbiome and PMN abundance of Mycoplasma genitalium infected pig-tailed macaques." Advised by Dr. Derek Wood, Dept. of Biology and Dr. Gwendolyn Wood, University of Washington. [abstract]Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted bacterial pathogen that causes long-lasting and sometimes asymptomatic infections. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) of the innate immune system phagocytose pathogens and exist in a symbiotic relationship with the cervicovaginal microbiome which influences the inflammatory response, cell differentiation, and immune system organization to enhance infection clearance. In this study we determined that infection with M. genitalium, but not PMN levels, was correlated with cervicovaginal microbiome shifts in three pig-tailed macaques. * Top Oral Presentation awardee
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 5: Sophia Tekorius and Savannah Mather. "Newly Sequenced Genome of Sea-1 Strain of M. genitalium Provides Opportunity to Compare with Type Strain, Collected 30 Years Apart." Advised by Dr. Derek Wood, Dept. of Biology and Dr. Gwendolyn Wood, University of Washington. [abstract]Mycoplasma genitalium G37, the type-strain, has experienced selective pressure for growth in vitro since its isolation in 1980. Recent low passage clinical isolates, such as Sea-1 have not experienced this same selection. To explore how these strains differ, the genome of Sea-1 was determined using long read MinION genome sequencing. This project illustrates the production of a quality, up-to-date genome to be used to explore differences between M. genitalium currently causing infection and the type-strain.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 6: Yohannes M. Abraham, Kasey Quintero and Othman Alsaadi. "MgpB and MgpC antigenic variation and ectocervical pH conditions over time in pig-tailed macaques infected with Mycoplasma genitalium." Advised by Dr. Derek Wood, Dept. of Biology and Dr. Gwendolyn Wood, University of Washington. [abstract]Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted pathogen that causes multiple infectious diseases. M. genitalium evades the host immune system through antigenic variation of the MgpB/C adhesins. Here, we investigate antigenic variation, antibody development and pH alterations during MG infection, analyzing ectocervical swabs of two pig-tailed macaques at different times post-inoculation. Our findings demonstrate that antigenic variation occurs only when MgpB/C specific antibodies are produced and that at higher pH most SNPs occur.
Sessions: Oral Presentations 1 and Printed Posters 1A

Presentation 7: Yaira N. Ponce, Jessica E. Vester and Hera Beatrice F. Cadelina. "Exploring the Effects of Zinc Gluconate on Maternal Recognition in California Mice (Peromyscous californicus)." Advised by Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]California mice are monogamous, territorial, and biparental rodents that are native to the California chaparral. In maternal California mice, we blocked olfactory processing in sensory neurons by injecting zinc gluconate intranasally. Zinc gluconate impairs olfaction as measured in a hidden apple test and a soiled bedding test. In this study, we are also examining whether anosmia will hinder a mother’s ability to distinguish between her own pup and an unfamiliar pup.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 8: Kaitlyn Liu and Anton Milan Brkic. "Exploring the Relationship Between Anosmia and Paternal Recognition in Peromyscus californicus." Advised by Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]The neuropeptide arginine vasopressin (AVP) is known to modulate a variety of social behaviors in mammals via sensory processing. We tested AVP’s effect via the olfactory pathway on paternal behaviors in Peromyscus californicus. We knocked out the sense of smell through intranasal administration of a zinc gluconate saline solution and tested recognition of their own vs. foreign pups. We hope to contribute to further research on social behavioral disorders and their treatment.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 9: Mathea Kurtz-Shaw. "An analysis of mesophotic macroalgal species richness and abundance in Puget Sound." Advised by Dr. Tim Nelson, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Mesophotic ecosystems are important, light-dependent communities that act as an area of transition for shallow and deep-water organisms. Macroalgae are prominent members of these communities whose growth is influenced primarily by depth and light levels. To examine these understudied communities, macroalgal coverage and species richness was compared at 3 different depth levels across 4 sites in Puget Sound, USA using videos collected during SCUBA diving.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 10: Morgan McGovern. "Glucose transporter expression of Murine Herpesvirus 68 infected NIH/3T3 cells." Advised by Dr. Tracie Delgado, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Murine Herpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) is a part of the gammaherpesvirus family that shares 80% of its genome with human Kaposi’s Sarcoma Herpesvirus (KSHV) and Epstein Barr Virus (EBV). KSHV and EBV are two of the top seven human oncogenic viruses. Previous data in our lab shows that the inhibition of glycolysis impairs MHV-68 production. My project examines the expression of glucose transporters in mock vs. MHV-68 infected cells using western blot analysis.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 11: Abdullah Bashmail. "The Modulation of Lipogenesis During MHV-68 Lytic Infection of NIH/3T3 Mouse Cells." Advised by Dr. Tracie Delgado, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Murine Herpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) shares 80% genetic homology with cancer causing Kaposi’s Sarcoma Herpesvirus and Epstein-Barr Virus. Preliminary work in our lab shows the enzyme fatty acid synthase is up-regulated in MHV-68 infected cells. This project investigates the expression of two other lipogenesis enzymes, ATP-citrate synthase and the rate-limiting acetyl-CoA carboxylase, during infection. Furthermore, the deactivated phosphorylated version of these enzymes will be investigated to note the measure of activation and deactivation of this pathway.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 52: Anna Bursch. "Cardiovascular health and locomotive efficiency: the relationship between walking speed, heart rate variability, and stress." Advised by Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]We examined the relationship between walking speed, biological sex, and ovarian cycle by measuring the heart rate variability (HRV) of participants walking around a track at three different speeds (slow, moderate, and fast). Male participates displayed rate independent HRV patterns while female participants experienced decreased HRV as speed increased. Woman in luteal phase (post-ovulation/pre-menstruation) experienced the lowest HRV at quicker speeds. * Top Poster Presentation awardee
Session: Printed Posters 1B

Presentation 53: Yohannes M. Abraham. "Ki67, CXCR3, and CCR6 hepatic T cells labeling in naïve and SIV-infected macaques." Advised by Dr. Donald Sodora, Seattle Children's Research Institute. [abstract]During HIV infection, liver disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality even in individuals treated with antiretroviral therapy, but its pathogenesis is not completely understood. Using the SIV-macaque model, we investigated hepatic T cells’ role during SIV infection by immunofluorescence microscopy. We demonstrated that hepatic T cell replication (Ki67) increases early upon SIV infection, but there is no significant impact of SIV on hepatic T cells’ expression of chemokine receptors CXCR3 or CCR6. * Top Poster Presentation awardee
Session: Printed Posters 2A

Presentation 54: Yohannes M. Abraham. "Quantification of Mx1+ T cells via hepatic zonation of naïve and SIV-infected macaques." Advised by Dr. Donald Sodora, Seattle Children's Research Institute. [abstract]T cells drive hepatic type-1 interferon signaling during over-feeding. Hepatic immune cells concentrate in periportal zones, blocking bacterial translocation. HIV-infected patients experience bacterial translocation and T cell dysfunction, but hepatic T cell zonation is understudied. We quantified the interferon-stimulated protein Mx1 and T cells’ zonation in SIV-infected and naïve macaques, using immunofluorescence microscopy. We observed fewer periportal T cells and greater Mx1 expression in SIV-infected macaques, suggesting an SIV-driven shift in T cells’ zonation.
Session: Printed Posters 2B

Presentation 55: Brynna Hansen. "Bioinformatics analysis identifies putative Jak and Stat homologs in Hypsibius exemplaris." Advised by Dr. Jenny Tenlen, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]This project seeks to investigate how germline development has evolved in animals, particularly Ecdysozoans. The highly-conserved Jak/Stat signaling pathway is involved in germline maintenance in Drosophila (fruit flies), but Jak and Stat homologs have yet to be identified in the Hypsibius exemplaris (tardigrade) genome. This bioinformatics analysis investigates putative homologs of Jak and Stat in tardigrades. Future experiments will explore the function of these proteins in tardigrade germline development and overall conservation of their protein families.
Session: Printed Posters 2B

Presentation 56: Kalkidan Yekuno. "DNA extraction from bone of a black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) population on Blakely Island, WA." Advised by Dr. Jenny Tenlen, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]The causes and patterns of mortality in populations that are separately located from the mainland population is not known with certainty. The black-tailed deer of Blakely Island are an ideal study population due to their isolation from the mainland population. This project mainly focuses on examining if the mortality rates of deceased juvenile black-tailed deer on Blakely Island are sex-specific. To do this, DNA will be extracted from skeletal remains and sex-specific targets will by amplified by PCR. Primers specific to genetic regions on the X and Y chromosome will also be used to identify the sex of our bone samples. Our presentation will describe preliminary results from DNA extracted from bone and muscle (as a control). * Top Poster Presentation awardee
Session: Printed Posters 2B

Presentation 65: Sophia Tekorius. "Identifying Two Potential Vasa Homologs in Hypsibius exemplaris." Advised by Dr. Jenny Tenlen, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Our understanding of germ cell development provides insight into how organisms grow and reproduce. The gene vasa is known to be involved in germ cell development across a variety of organisms. By understanding vasa in tardigrades specifically, homologs can be compared in well-studied species, such as planaria, which tardigrades are known to share evolutionary characteristics with, thus expanding knowledge into how germ cell development has evolved. This project illustrates the process of identifying potential Vasa homologs in tardigrades through bioinformatic analysis, including phylogenetic analysis.
Session: Digital Posters 2A

Presentation 70: Victoria Bowman. "Construction of MG281 mutants in Mycoplasma genitalium." Advised by Dr. Gwendolyn Wood, University of Washington. [abstract]Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is a sexually transmitted bacterial pathogen that causes urethritis. MG281 is a surface protein of MG that extends its C-terminal domain over the antibody-antigen binding site and therefore is hypothesized to evade the host antibody response. MG281 deletion and complementation MG mutants were successfully constructed and will be used to investigate the relationship between MG281 and the host innate immune response in future studies.
Session: Printed Posters 2B

Presentation 71: Riley Peters and Brandon Hua. "The differential impact of environmental humidity on male and female walking pace variability." Advised by Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Participants were asked to walk at slow, medium, and fast speeds on a track at various levels of humidity. Their quarter-lap time was recorded to analyze the consistency of their walking pace in response to assigned walking speeds and levels of humidity. This study found that there is a statistically significant difference between male and female pace consistency in response to environmental humidity.
Session: Digital Posters 1A

Presentation 72: Richo Abenojar, Brandon Hua, Mariah Kelley, and Tyler Ruch. "The Effect of Weightlifting Approaches on Heart Performance." Advised by Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Participants were asked to do upper body exercises twice a week and log their exercises in a diary. They were assigned to either a high repetition group or a high weight group. Their heart rate and heart rate variability were measured once per week for eight weeks to quantify the impact of weightlifting approaches on heart health.
Session: Printed Posters 1B

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Presentation 12: Alessandro Rizzi and Helena Nguyen. "The Synthesis of Light-Up Luminescent Lanthanide Probes Responsive to RNA Aptamer’s Binding." Advised by Dr. Minhee Lee, Dept. of Chemistry and Biochemistry. [abstract]The sharp and long-lived photoluminescence properties of lanthanides provide advantages to development of bio-responsive imaging probes. Our lab works on the design, synthesis, and characterization of light-up luminescent Lanthanide probes to harness these advantageous photophysical properties of lanthanides for monitoring RNA molecules of interest.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 47: Chenyang Wei and Vaughn Poon. "Different Size-Exclusion Elution Profiles for Similar MgpC Fragments Eluted at High Imidazole Concentrations." Advised by Dr. Ben McFarland, Dept. of Chemistry and Biochemistry. [abstract]The MgpC adhesin protein from the pathogenic bacterium Mycoplasma genitalium was separated by Ni-NTA affinity and FPLC size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). 64-kDa recombinant protein fragments derived from early (1166) and late (1206) timepoints differed at 25 residues. Protein that eluted from Ni-NTA at higher imidazole concentrations gave expected SDS-PAGE bands but eluted from SEC at different apparent sizes. We will characterize these proteins to see if they are suitable for antibody-binding assays in vitro.
Session: Printed Posters 1A

Presentation 48: Morgan McGovern. "C-terminal Truncations of the Mycoplasma genitalium MG281 Protein Impair Immunoglobulin Binding." Advised by Dr. Ben McFarland, Dept. of Chemistry and Biochemistry. [abstract]The pathogen Mycoplasma genitalium persists in the body by evading the immune system. It expresses the protein MG281, which we determined binds multiple classes of immunoglobulins and components of healthy cervicovaginal serum, possibly assisting in immune evasion. We created C-terminal truncations of MG281 and assessed antibody binding using Surface Plasmon Resonance. We determined that MG281 binds IgG better than IgA and that the C-terminus decreases the ability of the antibody to bind to MG281.
Session: Printed Posters 2B

Presentation 49: Cameron Weller and Helena Nguyen. "Design and expression of two recombinant bacterial fragments allows direct comparison of two clinical timepoints." Advised by Dr. Ben McFarland, Dept. of Chemistry and Biochemistry. [abstract]Mycoplasma genitalium binds to eukaryotic cells via an adhesion complex that is highly variable, possibly aiding in antibody evasion. To test antibody-binding properties in vitro, we designed and expressed two recombinant adhesin fragments with mutations sequenced at early (1166) and late (1206) timepoints from an infected patient. Protein samples eluted from Ni-NTA columns gave substantial peaks by size-exclusion FPLC at expected sizes. Surface plasmon resonance will be used to test antibody binding of these fragments.
Session: Printed Posters 2B

Presentation 50: Megan Iliuc, Julia Gill, and Ethan Hwang. "Purification of Mycoplasma genitalium MgpC Protein Fragments for Antibody Binding Studies." Advised by Dr. Ben McFarland, Dept. of Chemistry and Biochemistry. [abstract]The emerging pathogen Mycoplasma genitalium evades immune recognition, possibly from surface protein variation. We purified and characterized four recombinant fragments from its surface protein MgpC: three 64 kDa fragments corresponding to a student design from the crystal structure (PN), early (1491) and late (1534) clinical timepoints differing by 19 residues; and a truncated 49-kDa fragment. Size-exclusion FPLC peaks eluted at the expected sizes, suitable for antibody binding assays using surface plasmon resonance (SPR).
Session: Printed Posters 1B

Presentation 51: Eric Owsley. "Analysis of Acetyl-CoA Synthetase 1 (AceCS1) expression in MHV-68 infected cells." Advised by Dr. Tracie Delgado, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Murine Herpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) is homologous to human oncogenic viruses Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus and Epstein-Barr virus. We use MHV-68 as a model to study cellular metabolic changes during viral infections. Cytoplasmic acetyl-CoA synthetase (AceCS1) is a cellular enzyme which synthesizes cytoplasmic acetyl-CoA, the major building block used to produce new fat molecules in cells. This project aims to determine the protein expression of AceCS1 throughout the MHV-68 life cycle via western blot analysis.
Session: Printed Posters 2A

Computer Science

Presentation 13: Ethan Meyer, Jonathan Hacker and Abdu Mohamed. "Tile Trial." Advised by Professor Andrew Cameron, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]Tile Trial is a multiplayer video game where you solve a color matching puzzle with a friend. * Top Oral Presentation awardee
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 14: Jason Woolley, Levi Dahlberg, Bosena Telila and Zachary Himes. "Financr." Advised by Professor Andrew Cameron, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]Financr aims to be everything modern financial budgeting apps aren't. Current budgeting apps use less than helpful graphs and charts to communicate important information. Budgeting should be just as straightforward as sliding your credit card. Powered by Ionic; Financr aims to create a highly interactive experience across web and mobile. The team at Financr believes it is time for a change; knowing where your money is going should be just as fun as spending it!
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 15: Londone Watts, Kayla Jeter, Austin White and Roberto Hernandez-Ramirez. "Social Loopz." Advised by Professor Andrew Cameron, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]The Social Loopz Project is a mobile application that serves as a social media manager and media scheduler intended for all users. The purpose of this project is to provide a convenient one-stop-shop application that allows you to manage, post and interact with multiple social media platforms all in one place.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 16: Abigail Joppa, Bridget Erb and Cypress Payne. "OwieTracking." Advised by Professor Andrew Cameron, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]OwieTracking is a highly customizable symptom and habit tracking application. The application will allow users to create unique habit, symptom, food, and medication trackers, allowing them to track anything they need to within one application. OwieTracking will provide reminders to record these habits and symptoms at times and frequencies set by the user and will record the user’s history to allow them to view any important trends and potential correlations.
Sessions: Printed Posters 1A and Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 17: Lorenzo Martinez, Jasmine Salmeron, Marcela Soares Silveira, Hunter Hanay and Jack Kwon. "Trainr.Space." Advised by Professor Andrew Cameron, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]"We are creating a progressive web application that allows users access on their mobile and home devices. It is a platform that helps Trainers organize their one-on-one curriculum and stay personal with their clients. It's an all-in-one platform for ease of use. The application provides a variety of avenues for Trainers and Clients to communicate, such as direct messaging, photos and videos, document upload, a calendar to stay organized, and push notifications to stay connected."
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 18: Gregory Maynard, Shubhajeet Baral, Khuong Do and Thuong Nguyen. "Pixel Walker." Advised by Professor Andrew Cameron, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]Pixel Walker is a technology demo exploring the field of Machine Learning. We are developing a virtual character named Dennis who is running in a computer simulation. Dennis is using a language processing framework called GPT-3 to understand simple directions typed by a simulation user. Dennis is using two different reinforcement learning algorithms (PPO and SAC) to teach himself how to move around his environment and follow the directions he understands.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 19: Riley Pleas, Peter Felton, Pardeep Sharma, Thy Tran, and Jonathan Xu. "Gourmacracy." Advised by Professor Andrew Cameron, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]We are building a restaurant web application that serves as a menu and voting/rating platform for customers.
Sessions: Digital Posters 1A and Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 57: Amanda Harkleroad and Emily Bogle. "Simulating Cancer Cell Migration with High Performance Computing." Advised by Dr. Wai Lau, Dept. of Mathematics; Dr. Dung Nguyen, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science and Dr. Ann Almgren, Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. [abstract]Mechanical forces can be useful in modeling cellular behavior, interactions, and motility through various biological processes. The goal of this project is to develop and simulate a realistic model of cancer cell migration on high performance computing systems. Utilizing a vertex-particle approach on deformable convex polygons, in which eight forcing terms act upon, we maintained the viscoelasticity, flexibility, and disjoint nature of the cell membranes. * Top Oral Presentation awardee
Session: Printed Posters 2A

Presentation 66: Mercy Lelago, Binsa Bhandari, Issa Mathno and Ryan Graue. "Parityy." Advised by Professor Andrew Cameron, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]Partityy is a real estate investment platform that aims to bring equity and diversity to our community by creating opportunity for multiple people to invest on one real estate property and own shares instead of one person dominating it. The platform utilizes Cryptocurrency as a medium of exchange to add a layer of protection and simplify transactions.
Sessions: Digital Posters 1A and Oral Presentations 2

Engineering

Presentation 20: SPU Falcon Racing. "SPU Falcon Racing Peregrine." Advised by Dr. Dung Trung Nguyen, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]SPU Falcon Racing Peregrine is the most recent iteration of the SPU Falcon Racing Buggy and will be going to competition for BAJA SAE from May 12-15 in Cookeville, TN
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 21: Colin Brenchley, Mohammed Ali, Sean Barbour and Kinnon McPeak. "Hybrid Magnetic Braking System." Advised by Dr. James Walker, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]An electromagnetic assisted braking module which demonstrates the effectiveness of using electromagnets as a braking medium. The system uses friction and magnetic braking in tandem based on speed and the input pressure of the user.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 22: Parker Charles Kehret, Chloe Moore and Luke Ahlquist. "The Green Home." Advised by Dr. James Walker, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]The Green Home is a semi-autonomous green house designed by CJ & The Plant Lovers for CatalyzeU 2021-2022
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 23: Alden Scherrer and Ryan Cresap. "The Flying Squirrel." Advised by Dr. James Walker, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]The Flying Squirrel is an aerial search and rescue system that can be deployed in remote areas outside of any sort of power grid. This system would ensure a cost effective, environmentally friendly, and quick aerial search and rescue system that would be able to find and assist lost individuals before injury or death can occur.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 24: Danielle Johnson, Karl Hynden, Jacob Encinas, Logan McCabe and Sammy Tessema. "Sun Tracking Solar Panel and Water Collection System." Advised by James Walker, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]This solar panel system will track the sun throughout the day in order to maximize energy collection. The panel also adapts to rain in order to collect the water runoff to be used later. The system is designed for use on tiny homes/sleeping shelters and provide the user with electricity.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 25: Nicholas Godoy, Amos Jun, Ciello Magsanide, Eriko Nugroho, and Lansing Laws. "Down to Earth-Food Composter." Advised by James Walker, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]Project Down to Earth is an electric food composter that is designed to dehydrate, then blend it down into a fine soil-like consistency, able to be used for gardening purposes. The project is designed to expedite the 4-8 month composting process to about 12 hours, allowing for your weekly food waste to be repurposed overnight.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 26: Clara Hall, Drew Bell, Ethan Yoo, Justin Mak, Quan Nguyen and Wesley Tiff. "The Medicine Monitor." Advised by James Walker, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]The Medicine Monitor is an accessible, at-home medicine dispenser that replaces the need for high-cost, daily on-site nurses, regulates medicine administration for patients who forget to self-medicate and addresses the lack of liquid medicine dispensers on the market.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 27: Daynon Dang, Omar Garibay, Nate Geller, Saihou Jobe and Jason Smith. "Incentive Spirometer 2.0." Advised by Dr. James Walker and Dr. Lin Liu, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]The Incentive Spirometer 2.0 is a re-imagination of the current line of incentive spirometers, with the ability to record whether the user/patient is successfully following their prescribed therapy. With ergonomic and aesthetic redesigns, as well as optional OPEP integration, the Incentive Spirometer 2.0 will be a more comfortable and versatile device than the current models. * Top Oral Presentation awardee
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 28: Amanda Harkleroad, Andrew Harper-Smith, Muhammad Sesay and Ashlynn Burgess. "AAAMP Cart." Advised by Dr. James Walker and Dr. Lin Liu, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]The AAAMP Engineering Group has designed and constructed a solar powered and remote-controlled cart intended for use by Doctors Without Borders to assist in the transportation of medical equipment over multiple terrains.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 58: Mohammad Al-Na'ar. "Solar Energy in Kuwait." Advised by Dr. Yuri Reis Rodrigues, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science. [abstract]The project talks about the predicted increase in energy generation and power demand in Kuwait. These increase will be covered by solar energy. The research will predict how much area of land will be covered by solar cells to cover the increase in energy.
Session: Printed Posters 1B

Health and Human Performance

Presentation 29: Silas Newby, Robin Santos and Patrick Kealohilani Balbas. "The effect of a foot strengthening program on risk factors for biomechanical compensatory injuries." Advised by Dr. Dale Cannavan, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. [abstract]The primary purpose of this study is to examine the effects of a six-week foot strengthening program on risk factors for biomechanical compensatory injuries in the foot, ankle, and knee. In current literature, flat feet has been shown to be a common condition among adults and occurs when the arch of the foot collapses. As a result, this condition leads to various injuries in the lower limb.
Sessions: Oral Presentations 1 and Digital Posters 2A

Presentation 30: Javon Walker. "A Pilot Study to Compare Two Different Target Heart Rate Protocols on Perceived Exertion: Heart Rate Reserve vs. HRR and Heart Rate Variability." Advised by Dr. Katie Butte, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. [abstract]The primary purpose of this pilot study will be to compare two different methods for target heart rate (THR) on the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) during a submaximal exercise treadmill protocol in adults 18-50 years old. The two methods for THR include traditional THR protocol using Heart Rate Reserve (Karvonen Method) and An adjustment to THR using individualized resting Heart Rate Variability (HRV), a metric indicating whole body stress.
Sessions: Oral Presentations 1 and Digital Posters 2A

Presentation 31: Allie Zacharias and Jenna Bouyer. "The Effectiveness of a Single Exercise Program on Hamstring Speed and Intensity in Female Athletes." Advised by Dr. Katie Butte, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. [abstract]Females have a two to eight times higher rate of ACL injuries than males. Studies however have not tested the short-term effects of plyometric hamstring specific exercises and its possible impact on reducing the risk of ACL injuries. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a single plyometric hamstring exercise program on improving the speed and intensity of hamstring activation to balance the hamstring:quadricep (H:Q) ratio in female athletes.
Sessions: Oral Presentations 1 and Digital Posters 2A

Presentation 32: Benjamin Granger, Anna Gorbenko and Briley Olson. "Foam rolling in daily environment: An observational study." Advised by Dr. Katie Butte, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. [abstract]An observational study designed to determine participant's natural foam rolling behavior compared to their perceived knowledge of foam rolling protocol. * Top Oral Presentation awardee
Sessions: Oral Presentations 1 and Digital Posters 2B

Presentation 33: Jon Geiger. "ActivPAL Compliance, Reliability, And Activity Characteristics Of Remote Employees During COVID." Advised by Dr. Katie Butte, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. [abstract]This project investigates the extent to which the ActivPAL thigh-worn accelerometer can be used to reliably characterize the behavior of individuals with sedentary desk jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 34: Haley Yoshitomi, Vanessa Aniteye and Dieuthien Nguyen. "Pre-competition Anxiety in Female Track and Field Athletes: A Qualitative Research Design." Advised by Dr. Katie Butte, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. [abstract]The purpose of this study was to identify and examine how female collegiate track and field athletes experience pre-competition anxiety by using qualitative research methods. Semi-structured interviews and the Competitive Sport Anxiety Inventory-2 were used to determine the various coping strategies utilized by female track and field athletes. Lastly, further explore any similarities or differences between the athletes and the effectiveness of the coping strategies they prefer.
Sessions: Oral Presentations 1 and Digital Posters 2B

Presentation 35: Alexis Verr, Francesca Casseus and Mackenzie Nevarez. "Investigation of Pre-Performance Rituals in Collegiate Male Soccer Players." Advised by Dr. Katie Butte and Dr. Jarrett Mentink, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. [abstract]The primary purpose of our study is to investigate pre-performance rituals (PPR) and performance outcomes in males aged 18-23 years old on Seattle Pacific University’s (SPU) soccer team. We will use qualitative methods to conduct five semi-structured, open-ended interviews, and an additional five or more self-report and demographic surveys. Through this, we will obtain rich, qualitative information using open-ended questions. By doing this, we can get a better understanding of how athletes view PPRs on competing days.
Sessions: Oral Presentations 1 and Digital Posters 2B

Presentation 36: Julia Kumai and Caleb Travis. "Effects of a PNF Stretching Protocol on Anterior Pelvic Tilt and Range of Motion in Hamstrings in Young Adult and Middle-Aged Individuals." Advised by Dr. Katie Butte and Dr. Dale Cannavan, Dept. of Health and Human Performance. [abstract]The purpose of this study is to identify the effect of a proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching protocol on anterior pelvic tilt, hamstring flexibility, and gluteal muscle activation. These three outcome measures (anterior pelvic tilt, hamstring flexibility, and gluteal muscle activation) are all postural assessments for lower crossed syndrome, a condition that leads to chronic low back and hamstring injuries in adults. * Top Poster Presentation awardee
Sessions: Oral Presentations 1 and Digital Posters 2B

History of Science

Presentation 37: Alicia Termini, Pamela Styborski, Esther Kim and Valerie Schulte. "Women’s Advancement of Genetics." Advised by Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Despite societal views of women and a trend of excluding women in science, the contributions by women to the field of genetics have been remarkable and left lasting impacts on the field. Nettie Stevens (1861-1912) discovered sex chromosomes working with T. molitor (yellow mealworm), Edith Rebecca Saunders (1865-1945) worked with Mendel’s law, while Mary-Claire King (1946-today) connected BRCA1 to breast cancer. Their research, in addition to others, has supported the inclusion of women in genetics.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 38: Yennifer Gaspar, Emma-lee Vu, Allen Diaz and Daria Parodi. "Women in medicine." Advised by Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Before modern birth control was made, there were different ancient methods proven to be successful for their time such as lemons and various herbs. These methods were not only successful but were also important factors in creating the modern methods we know today. These methods were established by women for women. With this presentation, we will present the notable women throughout history who have been apart of the creation of birth control methods.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 39: Dhyana Kida, Krysta Reese, Michelle Moxley, and Charlotte Howell. "Women in Aerospace." Advised by Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]We will compare and contrast the challenges Sally Ride, the first American female astronaut to go into space in 1983, faced with the adversities of Jeannette Epps, an astrophysicist for NASA who was on track to become the fourth African American woman to go to space in 2018. We will illustrate how far women have come in aerospace and how far we still have to go.
* Top Oral Presentation awardee
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 40: Lexi Hellums, Jessica Martinez, Nicki Yorges and Wanting Zhang. "Ruth Benedict's Contributions to Anthropology." Advised by Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]We are focusing on Ruth Benedict’s research on human cultures affecting human patterns of thought and action. Her study redirected anthropology and folklore from culture-trait diffusion toward theories of performance, which are essential to the interpretation of culture. By studying the relationship between personality, art, language, and culture, she believes that they are not isolated or self-sufficient. Ruth Benedict developed novel methods and perspectives on studying foreign cultures.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 59: Jordi Scherrer, Hannah Buller and Rachel Millard. "Women in Engineering and Physics." Advised by Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]"Despite their academic lack of recognition, Lamarr, Kwolek, and Coston were revolutionary engineering innovators during World War II. By utilizing their unique experiences and resources, these innovators saw problems with military technology and worked to solve them. They developed a novel frequency jamming system, effective body armor and apparel, and an efficient flare-signaling device which is highly influential and still being used today."
Session: Printed Posters 2A

Presentation 60: Morgan McGovern, Sam Smith, Nikki Au, and Jenn M-R. "Why Women in Chemistry are Overlooked for Nobel Prize Awards." Advised by Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith, Dept. of Biology. [abstract]Women in science are often overlooked when considering their scientific contributions. This led to men in chemistry being awarded Nobel Prizes instead of their female colleagues, even though there was equal contribution. Women in chemistry have therefore not gotten the recognition they deserve. We will discuss some common themes as to why Rosalind Franklin, Darleane Hoffman, Kathleen Lonsdale, and Marguerite Perey were not awarded Nobel Prizes.
Session: Printed Posters 2A

Mathematics

Presentation 41: Haylie Turner. "What Happened To The Integrity of The P-value?" Advised by Dr. John Hossler, Dept. of Mathematics. [abstract]"What Happened To The Integrity of The P-value?" is a presentation describing the abuses and misapplications of p-values. The presentation begins with a brief history of p-values and describes various misuses. The presentation will then cover the American Statistical Association's statement on p-values, 'p-hacking' detection and severity, and the worst offenders of p-value misuse. The presentation concludes with solutions for moving forward and restoring the integrity of the p-value.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 42: Allie Hanson. "Jump up, Super star!" Advised by Dr. Steve Johnson, Dept. of Mathematics. [abstract]A developer's perspective on jumping in video games. Ranging from level structure and placement of obstacles to mapping out the actual equation of the jump parabola, we explore the logistics surrounding the different jumping styles video game characters have and how it impacts game design.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 43: Emily Bogle. "Simulating Cancer Cell Migration with High Performance Computing." Advised by Dr. Wai Lau, Dept. of Mathematics; Dr. Dung Nguyen, Dept. of Engineering and Computer Science; Dr. Ann Almgren, Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. [abstract]Mechanical forces can be useful in modeling cellular behavior, interactions, and motility through various biological processes. The goal of this project is to develop and simulate a realistic model of cancer cell migration on high performance computing systems. Utilizing a vertex-particle approach on deformable convex polygons, in which eight forcing terms act upon, we maintained the viscoelasticity, flexibility, and disjoint nature of the cell membranes.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 44: Madison Licari. "Exploring Linear Algebra Concepts Through SageMath." Advised by Dr. Wai Lau and Professor Sarah McCord, Dept. of Mathematics. [abstract]This project includes two SageMath programs that have been built for use in a Linear Algebra class. The first program looks at linear transformations and the second program focuses on some of the properties of determinants. They both have a corresponding worksheet that guides students through using the programs to explore the concepts and properties.
Session: Oral Presentations 1

Presentation 61: Abigail Hagen. "Pythagorean Theorem Number Theory for High School Students." Advised by Dr. Jerilynn Lepak, Dept. of Mathematics. [abstract]I gravitated toward number theory because of how intentionally abstract it is and because I enjoyed playing with and exploring the relationships between integers. As a future mathematics educator, I wanted to create something I could share with future students that spoke to why I fell in love with math. Toward that goal, I have created a unit that explores the divisibility of the integers in Pythagorean triples by using modular arithmetic.
Session: Printed Posters 2A

Presentation 62: Danny Pham, Owen Smith and Carrie Cox. "Carbon Sequestration and Forest Management." Advised by Dr. Wai Lau, Dept. of Mathematics. [abstract]This project performs mathematical analysis of forest carbon sequestration within 100 years duration. We built a mathematical model including various factors to verify whether forest harvesting helps sequestrate more carbon dioxide and maintain the forest's wellness.
Session: Printed Posters 1A

Presentation 67: Gabrialla Cockerell. "Data Abuse: An Investigation of Data, Algorithms, and Practices." Advised by Dr. Brian Gill, Dept. of Mathematics. [abstract]As data science exponentially expands in our daily functions of society, we must observe the pitfalls of abusive data collection, processing, and implementation. Although data science has immense potential for the betterment of society, often many groups are further marginalized by poor data developments, especially those subject to impoverished socioeconomic status. * Top Poster Presentation awardee
Session: Digital Posters 2A

Presentation 68: Babra Ndiritu. "Women in Mathematics." Advised by Dr. John Hossler, Dept. of Mathematics. [abstract]Women in mathematics is a topic that we barely hear about. My presentations will highlight the underrepresentation of women in mathematics historically versus currently. In addition, looking into how history has structured the involvement of women of color in mathematics. Being a black woman, I am passionate to encourage other women to get involved in the mathematical field and share the beauty of mathematics.
Session: Digital Posters 2A

Presentation 69: Sagma Prajapati. "Relationship between number of steps and sleep." Advised by Dr. John Hossler, Dept. of Mathematics. [abstract]My project is about the relationship between the number of step and the sleep pattern.
Session: Digital Posters 2B

Physics

Presentation 45: Andrew Macpherson. "James Webb Space Telescope Synopsis." Advised by Dr. John Lindberg, Dept. of Physics. [abstract]This is a presentation of my independent study into the James Webb Telescope and provides an overview of mission objectives, optics, instrumentation, deployment, and various technical aspects.
Session: Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 46: David Mosoreti and Danny Pham. "Design and testing of a wireless buoy for fluid density measurements." Advised by Dr. Lane Seeley, Dept. of Physics. [abstract]We developed buoy prototypes that use gyroscope sensors to track the motion and frequency of the fluid the buoy floats in.
Session: Printed Posters 1B and Oral Presentations 2

Presentation 63: Brynna Hansen. "Identifying student conceptual resources for understanding circuits." Advised by Dr. Amy Robertson, Dept. of Physics. [abstract]Previous physics education research on student ideas about circuits focuses on difficulties that students face when learning this topic. These difficulties are framed as obstacles for students to overcome in order to develop correct understandings of physics. In this presentation, we take a resources-oriented approach to analyzing student written responses to circuits questions, viewing student ideas as valuable for learning. With this analytic lens, we identified five conceptual resources that provide insight into students’ ideas about circuits and share instructional implications.
Session: Printed Posters 2A

Presentation 64: Jon Geiger. "A Natural Language Processing Approach for Categorizing Student Ideas in Introductory Calculus-based Physics." Advised by Dr. Lisa Goodhew, Dept. of Physics. [abstract]In this project, we utilize a machine learning analysis of student responses to conceptual questions in undergraduate physics. We explore the extent to which Natural Language Processing can be used to discover and categorize different student ideas in response to conceptual questions from various different universities. In particular, we apply Latent Dirichlet Allocation to student responses to cluster these responses together into distinct, human-recognizable groups.
Session: Printed Posters 2B