SURE 2019 Symposium Presentations
Poster Session 1 Presenter First Name
Presenter Last Name
Poster Number
Presentation Time
Presentation Title
Faculty Mentor's Primary Department
Lydia
Abedeen
1
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Speak, Beloved: A Study on Trauma Narratives in Literature Now, and Onwards
Comparative Literature
Neha
Arora
2
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
The Relationship Between Estrogen Exposure and Bone Health in Women with Cystic Fibrosis
Medicine, Endocrinology & Metabolism
Danial
Arslan
3
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Female Response to Ultrasonic Vocalization Playback to Test Social Salience of Auditory Communication in Prairie Voles
Biology
Haley
Barge
4
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
"Food conditions affect freshwater snails’ ability to reproduce Schistosoma parasite."
Biology
Natasha
Beepath
5
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Evaluating the Expansion of Railroads in Atlanta, Georgia (1900-1960), and Its Effects on the Environment
Department of Environmental Sciences
Jae
Bucknor
6
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Assessing Molecular Underpinnings of RNA Exosome Disease-Linked Mutations in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae
Department of Biology
Wendy
Camejo Nunez
7
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Identification of STX6 and CALML4 as shearsensitive genes in Endothelial Cells: Potential implications in Atherosclerosis and Hypertension
Biomedical Engineering
Nicemode
Charles
8
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Investigation of the Inflammasome Pathway in Sickle Cell Disease
Department of PediatricsAflac Center
Timothy
Chavez
9
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Photocatalytic radical conjugate addition in flow
Chemistry
Holly
Cordray
10
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Child Preoperative Education in Pop-Up: Developing an Active-Learning Book for Pediatric Tonsillectomy
Art History
Niharika
Dighe
11
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Erika
Diosdado
12
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Amygdala-Orbitofrontal Connections Gate the Development and Reversal of Cocaine-Induced Habits Utilizing Modular Redox-active Ligands to Promote Aerobic Oxidations at Cobalt(II) and Copper(II) Metal Centers Inter-Rater Reliability of Rumination Observed During Psychotherapy
Department of Pediatrics
Chemistry Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and the Department of Psychology
Erica
Flores
13
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Eva
Gatune
14
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Lea
GodretMiertschin
15
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Margaret
Gunter
16
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Progress toward the synthesis of paramagnetic luminophores: Mn(II) dipyrrinato complexes
Chemistry
Cassandra
Harding
17
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Seeking Solidarity in Fugitivity: A Historical Case Study of Maroon Communities in the Black Atlantic
History
Electrospun Polycaprolactone-Based Patches for Enhancing Cardiac Progenitor Cell Reparative Potential A Retrospective review: FEIBA as a Rescue Agent in for post-Cardiopulmonary Bypass Pediatric Cardiac Patients
Biomedical Engineering Department of Anesthesiology
Nathan
Harper
18
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Benchmarking a Static Cell for Recording RoomTemperature mm/submm Spectra
Chemistry
Miles
Hollimon
19
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Do monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) avoid mating with their siblings?
Biology
Shelby
Holmes
20
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Gendered Race in Occupations: An Audit Study of Gender-based Occupational Segregation by Race
Organization & Management
Tiffany
Hung
21
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Engineering Complex Synchronization Patterns in Small Networks of Chemical Oscillators
Department of Chemistry
Eric
Juarez
22
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Development of Asymmetric Redox-Active LigandScaffolds for C-H Bond Activation
Chemistry
Mary
Kan
23
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Tell Us Your Story: Challenges with EnFaith Recruitment
Behavioral Science and Health Education
Ariba
Khan
24
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Structural Characterization of Influenza H3N2 Hemagglutinin with Size Exclusion Chromatography
Chemistry
Penny
McElwee
25
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Frustrated Infants’ Behavioral and Physiological Response to Maternal Affect: A Pilot Study
Psychology
Arthur
Menezes
26
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Developing a new bacterial experimental evolution protocol in liquid media
Biology Department
Leslie
Mora
27
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Exploring the Generalizability of Laboratory Assessments in Daily Life using Experience Sampling
Psychology
Renata
Rivera
28
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Synthesis of Promysalin Analog and Investigation of its Synergy with Known Antibiotics
Chemistry Department
Cultural Considerations When Distinguishing the Reproductive and Sexual Health Needs of Black College Women: Demographic Homogeneity, Institutional Heterogeneity
Nursing
Naomi
Tesema
29
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Austin
Yu
30
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Bioprinting Extracellular Matrix Scaffolds as a Potential Treatment for Volumetric Muscle Loss
Department of Orthopaedics
31
Session 1 (1-2:20 PM)
Exploring the Effect of Counter-cations on the Catalytic Reactivity of Two Copper(II) with Redox Active Ligands towards Aerobic Catechol Oxidation (not finalized yet)
Department of Chemistry
Annabel
Zhang
Poster Session 2 Presenter First Name
Presenter Last Name
Poster Number
Presentation Time
Presentation Title
Faculty Mentor's Primary Department
Greg
Kimmerer
1
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Developmental Maintenance of the Drosophila Histone Locus Body
Biology
Camilla
Kline
2
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Thermal Stratification and Biogeochemical Dispersion in Warm Monomictic Reservoirs With and Without Induced Mixing
Environmental Science
Megan
Korn
3
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Acrylamide and Carbodiimide Derivatives for Chemical Profiling of the Epitranscriptome
Chemistry
Esther
Lee
4
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Population dynamics and lytic phage maintenance on mucoid Escherichia coli
Biology
Testing a size-based threshold hypothesis for transmission of the human blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni to its intermediate snail host, Biomphalaria glabrata The Role of Locus Coeruleus-Derived Galanin in Regulating the Behavioral Effects of Chronic Mild Stress
Selvaganesh
Maduraiveeran
5
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Lucas
Mavromatis
6
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Anna
McDonough
7
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Characterizing the dose-response of melanotan-II administration in the prairie vole model
Department of Psychiatry
Stephanie
Medina
8
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Elucidation of Apoptotic Mechanisms in Multiple Myeloma
Hematology and Medical Oncology
Perceptions of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) guidelines among Black men who have sex with men (BMSM)
Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education
Biology
Department of Human Genetics
Deve
Mehta
9
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Howard
Nicholson
10
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
The Effect of Shear Stress on Cathepsin Levels which Predisposes Children to Stroke
Biomedical Engineering
Fernanda
Nunes
11
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Characterization of Natural Products from a Medicinal Plant That Inhibit the Growth of Antibiotic Resistant Acinetobacter Baumannii
Department of Dermatology
Jocelyn
Ortiz
12
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Development of a Gene Therapy for Unfolded Protein Regulation as a Treatment for AlphaSynucleinopathies
Department of Neurosurgery
Shreya
Pabbaraju
13
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Equality as a Means of Minimizing Violence Against Women (VAW)
Political Science
Fabrication and Reusability of Flexible Hybrid Electrocardiogram Monitor
George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering
Meghana
Pasupula
14
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Ananthu
Pucha
15
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Isolation and Characterization of Extracellular Vesicles Originating from Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Orthopedics
Kassie
Sarkar
16
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Empowerment in Prison: the Artist Books of Students at Phillips State Prison
African American Studies
Unekwu-Ojo
Shaibu
17
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Application of Personalized Diploid Reference Genomes in Variant Discovery and Calling
Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics
Elana
Shaw
18
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Carolacton-Inspired Scaffold for CH Functionalization and Biological Investigation
Chemistry
Monique
Sparkman
19
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Mathematical and Numerical Modeling of Blood Flow: A Computational Study of Left Ventricular Assist Device
Math and Computer Science
Jocelyn
Stanfield
20
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Sex Differences in the Association between Prenatal Second-hand Smoke Exposure and Infant Motor Development
Psychology
Trevor
stevens
21
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
An Investigation of Anxiogenic Factors in 360° Video-based Virtual Environments
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science
Brenda Belwood
Tankeu
22
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
A Y-Maze Behavioral Paradigm to Investigate Association of a Novel Non-natural Sound with a Social Reward
Biology
Leon
Tare
23
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Protein-induced DNA looping in a crowded environment
Physics
Sharanya
Thodupunoori
24
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Progress toward the synthesis of paramagnetic luminophores: Mn(II) dipyrrinato complexes
Chemistry
Alison
Thomas
25
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
The Effects of CDK and BET Inhibitors Palbociclib and JQ1 on Pancreatic Tumor and Stellate Cells
Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology
Ethan
Todd
26
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
A Novel Use of Rotational Spectroscopy for Studying Characteristics of Desorbed Interstellar Ice Analogs
Department of Chemistry
InnekĂŠ L.
Vargas
27
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Beyond Bingo: The Importance of Meaningful Activity Engagement in Assisted Living
Division of General Medicine & Geriatrics
Mark
Weiss
28
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Medicaid Expansion and Marketplace Premiums: Evidence from late-adopting states
Economics
Jeanette
Wong
29
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
What is a scene?
Psychology
Brady
Wu
30
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Self-Lubrication of Hydrogel at the Critical Velocity
Physics
Gabrielle
Yamout
31
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
The Role of Gender in US Asylum Cases
Political Science
Edward
Yin
32
Session 2 (2:404:00 PM)
Interspecific mate choice in closely related betta species
Biology
Oral Session 1: Humanities and Social Sciences *** Oral Presentation Abstracts start on page 43 *** The sessions will run concurrently in two different rooms Presenter First Name
Presenter Last Name
Presentation Time
Presentation Title
Faculty Mentor's Primary Department
Gabe
Eisen
Session 1 (2:00-12:15)
Anarchist Economics in Atlanta (20002018)
Philosophy
Lauren
Hunady
Session 1 (2:15-12:30)
Breaking Out of Gender: Transgender Identity, American Law, and Prison Policy Under Vulnerability Theory
Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Sophia
Minnillo
Session 1 (2:30-2:45)
Motivation and Achievement in the Academic Setting: An Investigation of French Oral Proficiency Outcomes
Linguistics
Nathan
Session 1 (2:45-3:00)
The Stages of Alienation: Bertolt Brecht's Play Mother Courage and Her Children in the Global Cold War
German Studies
Chloe
Simmons
Session 1 (3-3:15)
Exercising Black Feminism and Action Through Sports Participation
Stuart A. Rose: Manuscript, Archives and Rare Book Library
Springfield
Session 1 (3:15-3:30)
The "Lost Cause" Narrative and its perpetuation through Charleston, South Carolinas Historical Tourism
Department of AfricanAmerican Studies
Amari
Sutton
Session 1 (3:30-3:45)
A New World Made Tangible: Constructing the Black Queer Space of the Ballroom
Sociology
Kaylah
Towns
Session 1 (3:45-4:00)
Removing Jurisdictional Barriers to Economic Mobility in Metro Atlanta
Political Science
Sidney
Aria
Oral Session 2: Natural Sciences *** Oral Presentation Abstracts start on page 43 *** The sessions will run concurrently in two different rooms Presenter First Name
Michael
Presenter Last Name
Presentation Time
Presentation Title
Faculty Mentor's Primary Department
Chen
Session 2 (2:00-12:15)
Modulating ERK 1/2 Signaling in Microglia to Elucidate its Role in Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease
Neurology
Haobin
Chen
Session 2 (2:15-12:30)
Caregiver Stress and Burden among Hispanic Elderly with Stroke: An Investigation of HEPESE Dataset
Stephanie
Jiang
Session 2 (2:30-2:45)
Evaluating the Relationship Between Reproductive Cost and Biological Aging
Elvis
Kahoro
Session 2 2:45-3:00)
James
Kim
Session 2 (33:15)
Austin
Lai
Session 2 (3:15-3:30)
Mingning
Zhu
Session 2 (3:30-3:45)
Search Based Indicators of Urban Air Pollution Machine Learning to Agnostically Rank Associative Factors in Cardiovascular Disease Uncovering a new function for Cdh1-APC as a molecular switch for neuronal protein synthesis and stress granule assembly A Micellization Model of Long Chain Carboxylate Surfactants with Alkali and Organic Cations
Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Gynecology and Obstetrics Computer Science Biomedical Engineering Department of Cell Biology Department of Chemistry
Poster Presentation Abstracts PRESENTER (S): Lydia Abedeen Title: Speak, Beloved: A Study on Trauma Narratives in Literature Now, and Onwards Author(s): Lydia Abedeen
Trauma narratives are aesthetic techniques designed to help survivors of trauma make sense of their experiences, while also acting as a form of exposure to painful memories. Oftentimes, authors depict this way of psychological analysis and healing through means of literature, either through fictional characters or autobiographical accounts. However, by depicting such graphic, blunt content, trauma narratives may inadvertently trigger the reader, thus harming rather than healing them. This project seeks to explore how to possibly craft a literary trauma narrative that does not offend the sensibilities of the reader (who reads the book to achieve their own kind of healing) through its graphic content in a way that keeps true to the narrative itself, as well as how an author may go about doing this in their work as much as they tangibly can. I will explore these questions through a close reading of three commonly known trauma narratives in literature: Beloved by Toni Morrison, Blue Nights by Joan Didion, and Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson; I will analyze what each book does and does not do well in their traumatic depictions by gauging the reactions of its traumatic content of myself and others, explore the differences of the depiction of trauma between creative forms, and eventually meditate on changes that can be applied to reduce possible triggering. Finally, I will craft a kind of literary trauma narrative that employs these means to serve as an example of a safer, less triggering depiction of trauma through its subtlety.
PRESENTER (S): Neha Arora Title: The Relationship Between Estrogen Exposure and Bone Health in Women with Cystic Fibrosis Author(s): Neha Arora, Malinda Wu, M.D. & Vin Tangpricha M.D., PhD., Emory University
Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) are at risk for cystic fibrosis-related bone disease (CFBD) characterized by low bone mineral density and fractures. Nutritional status, cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD), lung health, and sex hormone insufficiency affect CFBD. CF Foundation guidelines recommend exogenous estrogen treatment for women with CFBD and sex hormone deficiency. There is a lack of data regarding effects of exogenous estrogen supplementation on the bone health of CF women. This Emory IRB approved case-control study examined the association of estrogen on bone health in CF women. Data included demographics, sex hormone treatments, CFBD modifiers, and bone mineral density. 35 estrogen exposed subjects were matched 1:2 to 70 estrogen unexposed subjects for age, BMI, and transplant status. Statistical tests analyzed differences in bone health outcomes between the estrogen and non-estrogen exposed groups. At baseline, age, BMI, transplant status, and CFRD were not statistically different (p>0.05) between the two groups. The unexposed group had higher rates of pancreatic insufficiency (p=0.02). The exposed and unexposed subjects did not have statistically significant differences in areal bone
mineral density at lumbar spine, femoral neck, or total hip (p>0.05). Our study demonstrates that there are no differences in bone mineral density at 3 different sites between estrogen exposed versus estrogen unexposed women. One limitation is that factors that may also influence bone density including vitamin D status, family history, and severity of CF mutation were not corrected for. Future longitudinal studies should determine if estrogen treatment can increase bone density over time in CF women.
PRESENTER (S): DANIAL ARSLAN Title: Female Response to Ultrasonic Vocalization Playback to Test Social Salience of Auditory Communication in Prairie Voles Author(s): Danial Arslan, Larry J Young, Robert C. Liu., Emory University
Ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) are an important part of rodent communication, which has been studied extensively in mice and rats. Conspecific odors are a reliable way to elicit USVs, although research thus far has not revealed whether USV emission can reflect the recognition of conspecifics. Here we exploit prairie voles for their socially monogamous behavior, which presumably depends upon the ability to recognize one’s partner. Previous works have shown differences in USVs emitted by males in response to various socio-sexual contexts. However, no study, to our knowledge, has looked into the response that these vocalizations elicit in other voles. Here, we focus on understanding the role USVs play in conspecific recognition by investigating whether receiver pair-bonded females can discriminate adult partner male vocalizations from those of a stranger. We do this by recording adult male USVs followed by a two-choice playback test where we track the behaviors exhibited by female voles in response to the played back sounds. This experiment provides insight into the reaction invoked and attractiveness of particular USVs based on context, thereby increasing our overall understanding of the importance of social communication through audition in prairie voles.
PRESENTER (S): Haley Barge Title: Food Conditions Affect Freshwater Snails’ Ability to Reproduce Schistosoma Parasite Author(s): Haley Barge, Lynda Bradley, Rachel Hartman, Danielle Shin, David Civitello, PhD, Emory University
Schistosomiasis is a human waterborne disease, prevalent in Africa, Asia, and South America. The infection is spread through snail hosts and their production of parasites is dependent on energy acquisition. Organisms have a finite amount of energy. Therefore, they will prioritize tasks such as growth, reproduction, survival, and parasite production based on environmental constraints. Therefore, it is important to study how resource quality impacts snails ability to produce parasite, as this leads directly to human risk. We hypothesized that infected Biomphalaria glabrata will trade-off between maximizing body size, offspring size, or parasites. Individuals maintained with
lower quality food will have a higher production of Schistosoma parasite. Food quality in the environment is heterogeneous for snail hosts. One framework for understanding this variability is using eco-stoichiometry which describes the cycling of major chemical nutrients in the ecosystem. Of particular interest of how carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus are linked to each other and change under certain ecological conditions. These conditions will be expected to change more dramatically under climate change scenarios such as increased agricultural runoff and carbon sequestration, among other scenarios. Therefore it is important for us to create a realistic and quantitative model to track the Carbon:Nitrogen:Phosphorus (C:N:P) fluctuations in snail host habitats. Our model will be based on the Dynamic Energy Budget Theory (DEB theory). Preliminary data shows that pulses of nutrient-dense food in both schistosome-infected and uninfected snails have documented sudden growth spurts. Additionally, food supply treatments affect snail growth trajectories (p < 0.001).
PRESENTER (S): Natasha Beepath Title: Evaluating the Expansion of Railroads in Atlanta, Georgia (1900-1960), and Its Effects on the Environment Author(s): Natasha Beepath, Alicia Wun, Dr. Eri Saikawa, Emory University
In the wake of new forms of transportation, new ecological problems arise. Using a material approach to environmental history, research was conducted to evaluate the relationship between environmental health and railroad construction between the years of 1900 and 1960. This approach looks at how humans change the natural environment through technology and manipulation. Railway usage was at its height in Atlanta, Georgia during the 1920s with a steady decline in passenger service well into the 1960s. This research will examine the infrastructure of railways and their role in habitat loss, soil, air, and water quality. In West Atlanta, a team of researchers from Emory University and community members recently found three sites where slag was dumped in a largely African-American neighborhood. Slag is industrial waste containing high heavy metal and metalloid content and is possible to have come from the period during railroad construction. We will investigate the link between Atlanta’s development history and the existing soil contamination problems in the city.
PRESENTER (S): Jae Bucknor Title: Assessing Molecular Underpinnings of RNA Exosome Disease-Linked Mutations in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Author(s): Jae Bucknor, Cornell University; Maria Sterrett, Ph.D. Candidate, Emory University; Anita Corbett, Ph.D., Emory University
The RNA exosome plays a critical role in RNA processing and degradation in the nucleus and cytoplasm. It is comprised of 10 functional subunits that compose the cap, core, and ribonuclease. The cap is where RNA enters the complex. The core guides proteins to appropriate active sites in the ribonuclease where catalytic activity occurs: RNA cleaving and processing. Cofactors are proteins that help the RNA exosome target RNA. Consequently, they increase the efficiency of the RNA exosome’s catalytic function. In eukaryotes, subunits that make up the cap, core, and ribonuclease are transcribed by different genes. Recent single amino acid substitution mutations in the cap and core subunits genes, EXOSC2/RRP4 and EXOSC5/RRP46, have been identified in humans. These mutations are linked to distinct tissue-specific disease. These substitutions fall in highly conserved regions of the subunit genes, allowing us to model the mutations in S. cerevisiae. Our main question is how these mutations in the cap and core subunits result in distinct, specific consequences in vivo. We first characterized the functional consequences seen in yeast modeling the EXOSC2/RRP4 and EXOSC5/RRP46 mutations by assessing growth rates and protein levels of RNA exosome mutant subunits. We also performed a targeted high copy suppressor screen to understand if cofactor interactions are uniquely affected by each subunit mutation. Assessing in vivo consequences of these RNA exosome mutations using S. cerevisiae will shed light on the molecular underpinnings that result in the distinct diseases in humans.
PRESENTER (S): Wendy Camejo Nunez Title: Identification of STX6 and CALML4 as Shear-sensitive Genes in Endothelial Cells: Potential Implications in Atherosclerosis and Hypertension Author(s): Wendy Camejo Nunez, Catherine Demos, Nicole Noren Hooten, Michelle Evans, Douglas Dluzen, Sandeep Kumar, Hanjoong Jo, Emory University
Introduction Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease which is the leading cause of mortality in developed countries. Atherosclerosis primarily occurs in the regions of vasculature exposed to disturbed blood flow (branch points and curvatures) implicating the role of blood flow as an important determinant of the disease. Previously, we identified several genes (mRNA and miRNAs) that overlap between a microarray examining differential gene expression (DGE) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from African American and white women with hypertension, and a microarray of DGE in endothelial-enriched RNAs isolated from the carotid artery of mice exposed to disturbed blood flow through partial carotid ligation (PCL). Hypothesis Disturbed blood flow differentially regulates the expression of STX6 and CALML4 in a miRNAdependent manner. Methodology We exposed Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial cells and immortalized Mouse Aortic Endothelial cells to Angiotensin II treatment, a pro-hypertensive agent, and expression levels of STX6 and CALML4 were determined by qPCR. Additionally, we examined these genes in Human Aortic Endothelial Cells under unidirectional vs oscillatory shear stress (cone-and-plate). Furthermore, we validated the mRNA expression of STX6 and CALML4 in disturbed flow conditions in vivo using our mouse PCL model. Results/ Conclusions We identified CALML4 to be significantly downregulated while STX6 was significantly upregulated in oscillatory vs. unidirectional shear stress condition in HAECs. In silico analysis, we identified miR-20a-5p to target STX6 and miR-103a-2-5p targets CALML4. Experimental validation using
HAECs showed that overexpression of miR-20a-5p significantly downregulated the expression of STX6. Further studies are warranted to validate these miRNAs-mRNA gene expressions.
PRESENTER (S): Nicemode Charles Title: Investigation of the Inflammasome Pathway in Sickle Cell Disease Author(s): Dr. David Archer, Dr. Shanmuganathan Chandrakasan and Nicemode Charles, Emory University SCD (Sickle Cell Disease) is caused by a point mutation in the sixth codon of the β-globin gene leading to sickling of red blood cells (RBC). Sickle-shaped RBC obstructs microvessels and reduces survival from repeated cycles of hemoglobin polymerization and depolymerization. SCD is characterized clinically by a varying degree of anemia, and multiple organ damage caused by vaso-occlusion. The estimated life expectancy for patients with SCD is significantly shortened to 42 to 48 years. Chronic inflammation in SCD is being increasingly recognized as another important determinant of SCD complications. A variety of inflammatory cytokine and chemokines are elevated in SCD. SCD patients in the steady-state showed a significant elevation in Interleukin1 beta (IL-1β) IL-6, IL-18 and IFN-γ) as compared to normal subjects6. These cytokines contribute to the inflammatory milieu in SCD and may cause chronic inflammatory state in SCD. Many investigators have focused on the exaggerated innate immune response through heme-induced TLR-4 activation. The inflammasome pathway, another important modulator of the innate and adaptive immune response has not been investigated in SCD. The inflammasome is a key signaling platform that detects infections and sterile tissue damage. It consists of an inflammasome sensor molecule, the adaptor protein ASC and caspase 1. We will be focusing on studying the transcriptome of a sickled mouse and a wild type mouse. RNA will be extracted from neutrophils and monocytes of both wild type and sickled mouse and then sent for RNA sequencing for a downstream application like studying the elevated cytokines in SCD.
PRESENTER (S): Timothy Chavez Title: Photocatalytic radical conjugate addition in flow Author(s): David B. Vogt, Emory University; Timothy J. Chavez, New Mexico Tech.; Nathan T. Jui, Emory University
Abstract not available.
PRESENTER (S): Holly Cordray
Title: Child Preoperative Education in Pop-Up: Developing an Active-Learning Book for Pediatric Tonsillectomy Author(s): Holly Cordray, Emory University Children’s minds, highly receptive to learning and agency thinking, are primed to use preoperative education. Given access to engaging, age-appropriate, and thorough education materials, pediatric patients form more accurate appraisals and exhibit reduced stress response. Further, teaching coping strategies and treatment benefits drives hope forward into better postoperative adjustment, bolstering treatment adherence with downstream effects on health outcomes. This active-learning pop-up book, interactive and procedure-specific, takes a novel approach to pediatric preoperative education. Focusing on tonsillectomy, the book walks the child through the hospital experience, surgery, and recovery in an accurate, engaging way. It increases familiarity with the operation and the hospital to help mitigate fears of surgery and the unknown. It also provides an approachable explanation of the reasons for tonsillectomy and how the procedure works. The author collaborated with the Chief of Otolaryngology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Ohio and experts in child psychology; the prototype will be finalized after a trial with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Using paper-engineering techniques and digital illustration, the book incorporates a wide variety of features requiring the reader’s hands-on participation, involving the child in active learning. This brings pediatric patients into the preoperative conversation and makes them active players in their treatment process. More accessible education communicated directly to the child in part through interactive art can make an important difference as children prepare for surgery. This book will address that gap for the hundreds of thousands of children who undergo tonsillectomy each year.
PRESENTER (S): Niharika Dighe Title: Title: Amygdala-Orbitofrontal Connections Gate the Development and Reversal of CocaineInduced Habits Author(s): Niharika Dighe, Dan Li, Shannon Gourley (PhD), Emory University Goal-directed decision-making – i.e. performing actions based on their expected outcomes – is a critically important behavioral adaptation which requires using learned action-outcome associations in order to guide future actions. Deficits in goal-directed behavior produces an overreliance on inflexible habits which represent a core pathological feature in substance abuse disorders, including cocaine addiction. This may be attributable to weakening neuronal connections from the basolateral amygdala (BLA) to the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), and decreasing dendritic spine density in OFC. Here, we show that BLA-OFC connections are required for goal-directed behavior as its inhibition using a Gi-DREADD induces habitual responding. Previous experiments from our lab have suggested that administration of the drug ifenprodil has protective effects against the development of cocaine-induced habits. Accordingly, we further observed that ifenprodil administration failed to protect against cocaine-induced habits when these BLA-OFC connection were inhibited, suggesting that the observed therapeutic mechanism of
ifenprodil acts through BLA-OFC connections. I further demonstrate that goal-directed behavior can be rescued by activating the BLA-OFC connection using an excitatory Gq-DREADD in cocaine-exposed mice. These findings will help determine potential new treatments and provide a deeper understanding of the neurobiological effects of cocaine exposure on goal-directed behavior.
PRESENTER (S): Erika Diosdado Title: Utilizing Modular Redox-active Ligands to Promote Aerobic Oxidations at Cobalt(II) and Copper(II) Metal Centers Author(s): Erika Diosdado, Georgia Gwinnett College; Omar Villanueva, PhD, Georgia Gwinnett College; Cora E. MacBeth, PhD, Emory University
The selective functionalization of inert C-H bonds from petroleum feedstocks into value-added CC bonds through the use of earth-abundant first-row transition metal catalysts remains an important research goal in synthetic organic chemistry. Converting C-H bonds to C-C bonds via transition metal catalysts that can utilize molecular oxygen as the terminal oxidant has received significant attention as this is a greener, yet more challenging approach to C-H functionalization. The central hypothesis of this research is that modular redox-active ligand scaffolds presented herein can be used to create reactive monomeric cobalt(II) and copper(II) complexes capable of promoting catalytic aerobic oxidation reactions. This research will present the reactivity of Co(II) and Cu(II) complexes, containing either an aminophenylaminate or an aminophenylurea redox-active ligand platform. We hypothesized that these systems could be utilized to construct C-C bonds from phenolic C-H bonds. To test our hypothesis, the aerobic oxidative coupling of 2,4-di-tert-butyl phenol was chosen as the model reaction. Methods used in this research include the use of cyclic voltammetry, NMR and UV-visible absorption spectroscopies, and reaction optimization for exploring optimal catalyst performance. This research has resulted in the preparation of cobalt(II) and copper(II) systems that are highly effective for aerobic oxidation reactions. Results obtained from this work will constitute a landmark innovation with the potential to impact the field of oxidation catalysis broadly.
PRESENTER (S): Erica Flores Title: Inter-Rater Reliability of Rumination Observed During Psychotherapy Author(s): Erica Y. Flores, Jamie C. Kennedy, & W. Edward Craighead, Georgia Institute of Technology
Abstract not available.
PRESENTER (S): Eva Gatune Title: Electrospun Polycaprolactone-Based Patches for Enhancing Cardiac Progenitor Cell Reparative Potential Author(s): Eva Gatune, Benjamin W. Streeter, Jiajia Xue, Younan Xia, and Michael E. Davis, PhD, Emory University
Abstract not available.
PRESENTER (S): Lea Godret-Miertschin Title: A Retrospective review: FEIBA as a Rescue Agent in for post-Cardiopulmonary Bypass Pediatric Cardiac Patients Author(s): Lea Godret-Miertschin, Kati Miller, Dr. Nina Guzzetta, Dr. Laura Downey, Emory University
Introduction: Pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery are at risk for bleeding and transfusion due to cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) effects, immature coagulation systems, and surgical complexity. Blood transfusions are needed to restore hemostasis, but are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Prothrombin Complex Concentrates (PCCs), such as factor eight inhibitor bypass activator (FEIBA), are used in adults to treat refractory bleeding and reduce transfusions after CPB. However, there is no published data on off-label use of FEIBA as rescue therapy in pediatric patients. Methods: After IRB approval, we queried our institutional database between January 1, 2017-June 5, 2019 for pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB who received FEIBA. Demographics, intraoperative data, post-bypass blood product transfusions, and outcomes were collected. The Wilcoxon paired test was used to compare transfusions before and after FEIBA administration. Results: Thirty-two patients received FEIBA as rescue treatment for bleeding: median age 7.2 years [0.33-13.4]; median weight 23.05kg [5.15-51.18]; 81% had a STAT score of ≼3; mortality score of 1.60 [1.40-2.40]. The dose of FEIBA was 12.98units/kg [1021.86]. Patients received significantly less blood products after FEIBA administration (PRBCs: 3.54[0.00-13.66] vs. 0.00[0.00-3.35] (p=0.223); FFP: 3.31[0.00-7.22] vs. 0.00[0.00-3.37] (p=0.295); Platelets: 12.50[6.12-25.24] vs. 0.73[0.00-14.51] (p<0.001); Cryoprecipitate: 4.76[2.72-10.18] vs. 0.00[0.00-1.56] (p<0.001)). FEIBA patients had an intubation time of 42.50 hours [23.81-139.09], ICU length of stay (LOS) of 5 days [2-16] and hospital LOS of 14 days [633]. Conclusion: Patients who received FEIBA as rescue therapy during cardiac surgery on CPB received fewer blood products after FEIBA administration.
PRESENTER (S): Margaret Gunter
Title: Progress Toward the Synthesis of Paramagnetic Luminophores: Mn(II) dipyrrinato complexes Author(s): Margaret K. Gunter, Sharanya M. Thodupunoori, Austin B. Scharf, PhD, Oxford College of Emory University.
Progress toward the synthesis of novel Mn(II) dipyrrins has been made in order to evaluate their luminescence properties. The dipyrrins are derived from the known 2,9-bis[(2,4,6triphenyl)phenyl]dipyrrin scaffold, which has been shown to luminesce even when coordinated to paramagnetic transition metal ions. These targeted molecules are of interest because luminescent, paramagnetic molecules are potentially useful in bimodal imaging applications, where their visible or near-infrared emission and magnetic characteristics can be detected by complementary methods.
PRESENTER (S): Cassandra Harding Title: Seeking Solidarity in Fugitivity: A Historical Case Study of Maroon Communities in the Black Atlantic Author(s): Cassandra M. Harding, Davidson College Between the sixteenth and the early nineteenth centuries, an age of human captivity across the Western Hemisphere, enslaved Africans resisted the coercive culture associated with plantation economies by running away and establishing maroon communities. Focusing on the racialized geographies of Jamaica and Colombia, these settlements strategically dotted the rural hinterlands or were on the fringes of indigenous and colonial societies. Some were based on statist frameworks, incorporating forms of inequality akin to slavery; others were more dispersed, closely integrating with neighboring groups of free people. In response to their fugitivity, British and Spanish imperial governments led unsuccessful campaigns to suppress, erase, and recapture these “rebels.� Gradually, the maroons succumbed, allowing for their pacification and power reduction through legal mutual agreements—but their stories do not end there. It would be tempting to romanticize that fugitives defined themselves primarily as guerillas and binding together was the experience of marronage. Yet, close historical analysis suggests that their identities were far more complex, and fugitives engaged, to varying degrees, with the State. Thus, this project comparatively surveys two cases through which to study how their historical trajectories were erected in opposition to and influenced by institutionalized slavery. Interdisciplinarily, my investigation analyzes primary materials, like colonial treaties, to identify what changed and monographs for the contemporary struggles of descendants for autonomy. My work contributes to scholarship that broadens the understanding of the African Diaspora beyond one-dimensional plantation slavery. It illuminates the histories of active liberators, who reinterpreted notions of identity, community, and citizenship through land.
PRESENTER (S): Nathan Harper
Title: Benchmarking a Static Cell for Recording Room-Temperature mm/submm Spectra Author(s): Nathan Harper, Jay A. Kroll, Sam Zinga, Dr. Susanna Widicus Weaver, Emory University
A static, stainless-steel spectroscopy cell was constructed to record millimeter/submillimeter spectra of room-temperature gas-phase molecules. Conflat and Swagelok connections were implemented to minimize the leak rate of the cell to 200 ΟTorr/min. Schottky diode multiplier chains and a microwave synthesizer produce radiation up to a terahertz, which is detected with a lock-in amplifier and an InSb hot-electron bolometer. The spectrum of methylamine was recorded from 70-600 GHz. Known ground-state transitions were immediately observed, along with hundreds of unknown, unassigned lines. These are thought to be rotational transitions of torsionally excited methylamine. Hindered internal rotation of the methyl group and inversion of the amine group result in a complicated spectrum. We intend to use Loomis-Wood plots to assign quantum numbers to transitions, then approximately fit them using Pickett’s SPFIT program. We are also interested in recording the spectra of isotopically substituted propane. Gaussian calculations (MP2/aug cc pVTZ) suggest that the normal and singly 13C-substituted species have permanent dipole moments near 0.08 D, which will make observations of any rotational transitions difficult. Several propane transitions were tested in Band 4 (90-140 GHz); certain transitions can be observed without averaging, but it will likely be difficult to find unknown transitions with singleaverage scans.
PRESENTER (S): Miles Hollimon Title: Do Monarch Butterflies (Danaus plexippus) Avoid Mating with their Siblings? Author(s): Miles Hollimon, John Rolfes, Scott Villa PhD, Emory University, Jaap de Roode, PhD, Emory University
How and why monarch butterflies choose mates remains largely unknown. Previous studies focus almost exclusively on male mating behavior. Male mating attempts are typically aggressive, with males grabbing females out of the air and forcibly copulating with them on the ground. However, recent observations suggest that females can reject most male advances. One reason females might reject a male is to avoid inbreeding. Like many organisms, inbreeding depression in monarchs can have large negative fitness consequences. Thus, selection should favor females that are better able to reject mating advances from their relatives. Here we give female butterflies a choice between mating with either an unrelated male or her brother. Each female was introduced into a mating cage with the two males and monitored over a five-day period. We quantified mating behavior with a combination of video playback and instantaneous scan sampling. Our experiment included 69 mating trials consisting of 207 captive-reared monarch butterflies. Mating data suggested that female butterflies do not avoid mating with their brothers. These results were surprising given the negative consequences of inbreeding in this system. By characterizing how female monarchs choose mates, we can better understand the complex mating behavior of this species. Our study is
one of the first to concentrate on female choice and is potentially vital to the conservation of declining monarch butterfly populations.
PRESENTER (S): Shelby Holmes Title: Gendered Race in Occupations: An Audit Study of Gender-based Occupational Segregation by Race Author(s): Erika V. Hall, PhD, Emory University; Shelby Holmes, Davidson College
Existing literature suggests that both occupations (Cejka & Eagly, 1999) and racial stereotypes (Galinsky et al, 2013) possess gender content. For example, the stereotypes associated with both construction works and the Black race are highly masculinized. In this study, we expand upon the idea that the alignment of occupations’ and individuals’ gender profiles, one’s overall perceived femininity and masculinity based on an individual’s gender presentation and the “gender” of their race (Galinsky et al, 2013), influences perceptions of person-position fit (Hall et al, 2015). Using an audit study methodology, we operationalize person-position fit as callback rates for applicants possessing different racial and gender demographics across different occupational groups in 3 major metropolitan areas. We hypothesize that applicants racialized as more stereotypically masculine (e.g. Black & Latinx applicants) are likely to have higher callback rates for occupations with masculine gender profiles (e.g. construction work, outside sales). We also hypothesize that applicants racialized as more stereotypically feminine (e.g. Asian applicants) will have higher callback rates for occupations with feminine gender profiles (e.g. beauty, design). This study seeks to externally validate the experimental literature on gender profiles and person-position fit and lend insight to who gains entry and advances in different occupations.
PRESENTER (S): Tiffany Hung Title: Engineering Complex Synchronization Patterns in Small Networks of Chemical Oscillators Author(s): Tiffany Hung & Simbarashe Nkomo, PhD, Oxford College of Emory University Oscillating chemical reactions are cyclic chemical processes that serve as the foundations of periodic biological processes, such as in Kreb’s cycle and glycolysis. One of the most-studied oscillating chemical reactions is the Belousov-Zhabotinsky (BZ) reaction, which has been used to gain fundamental insights into complex biological phenomena, such as synchronization behavior in neurons and circadian rhythms. Complex synchronization patterns, such as spiral wave patterns in cardiac arrhythmia, can emerge from loss of rhythmic behavior. We study the effects of network structure and time-delay coupling on the dynamic properties of small chemical networks. Experiments are carried with ferroin or ruthenium catalyst-loaded cation-exchange beads, which act as individual chemical oscillators, immersed in a catalyst-free BZ solution. Simulations with the non-dimensional Oregonator model of the BZ reaction are compared with experimental
behavior. Synchronized and complex frequency cycling patterns, whose occurrence depends on network structure and time-delay value, are observed in experiments and simulations.
PRESENTER (S): Eric Juarez Title: Development of Asymmetric Redox-Active Ligand-Scaffolds for C-H Bond Activation Author(s): Eric Juarez; Dan Liu; Cora MacBeth, PhD, Emory University
First row transition metal mediated C-H functionalization has been shown to be an effective synthetic strategy for the formation of C-C, C-O and C-N bonds with low cost. However, due to the one-electron reactive nature of these metals, this type of chemistry is challenging. The MacBeth group has successfully incorporated redox-active ligands with first row transition metals for catalyzing multi-electron chemistry processes such as C-H oxygenations and aminations. Nevertheless, an issue that our group has encountered with this chemistry is that our catalysts did not show good enantioselectivity. In order to improve our catalysts’ selectivity, a series of asymmetric redox-active ligand scaffolds will be designed and synthesized in this presentation. Those ligands will be fully characterized and then metallated with transition metals such as cobalt and nickel. Catalytic C-H oxidation reactions including C-H oxygenation and amination will be performed utilizing the cobalt and nickel complexes were synthesized.
PRESENTER (S): Mary Kan Title: Tell Us Your Story: Challenges with EnFaith Recruitment Author(s): Mary Kan, Emory University; Whitney Smith-Rice, DrPH, Rollins School of Public Health Protestant Christian community norms and values often silence conversations about “taboo” sexual and reproductive health (SRH) topics. This stigma may contribute to the lack of information about SRH and related health risks within faith-based communities. Engaging Georgia’s Faith Communities for Promoting Reproductive Health (EnFaith) is a community-based project that aims to develop evidence-based intervention strategies that promote compassionate, supportive SRH attitudes in Mainline and Black Protestant churches within Macon, Georgia. This summer, the EnFaith team is sampling religious leaders and congregants (n=86 to date) for qualitative interviews to understand their views on SRH and whether and how their churches address them in order to inform intervention development. Recruitment has been challenging given the stigma around SRH, the need for different recruitment strategies for different Protestant traditions, and the racially segregated Macon community. Recruitment data reveal that purposive sampling using the Association of Religion Data Archives (ARDA) has garnered most of the Mainline Protestant participants (34%) while field recruitment attracts most of the Black Protestant participants (63%). The disparity in the proportion of Mainline versus Black Protestant participants recruited may be
due partly to differing willingness among groups to engage with our black, female field recruitment team. To gather a diverse range of input to best inform the overall project, we have added various new recruitment methods including social media recruitment, recruitment from centers of commerce and at assorted community events. Diverse methodological approaches may be beneficial when recruiting participants from rural settings for projects pertaining to controversial topics.
PRESENTER (S): Ariba Khan Title: Structural Characterization of Influenza H3N2 Hemagglutinin with Size Exclusion Chromatography Author(s): Ariba Khan, Helen Siaw, Dr. R. Brian Dyer, Emory University
Hemagglutinin (HA) is a homotrimeric protein expressed on the surface of the influenza virus. It consists of 2 domains: HA1 and HA2. HA2 is essential for mediating viral entry into the host cell. Once the virus is endocytosed and transported to the late endosome, the acidic pH within the endosome drives large conformational change in HA2. One method to obtain the full-length HA2 protein is to directly cleave it off of the virus’s surface. However, this method requires direct handling of the virus, which is hazardous. Preliminary data from our lab showed that we were able to recombinantly express full-length HA2 in E.Coli. The goal of this project is to characterize the structure of the full-length HA2 at neutral pH and acidic pH. With size exclusion chromatography (SEC) coupled with fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC), we probed the oligomeric states of the expressed protein at pH 7 and pH 4.
PRESENTER (S): Greg Kimmerer Title: Developmental Maintenance of the Drosophila Histone Locus Body Author(s): Greg Kimmerer, Gwyn Puckett, Leila Rieder, PhD, Emory University
Co-regulation of genes is a fundamental strategy that organisms employ to coordinate important cellular processes. In Drosophila, the 5 histone genes are arranged in an array and repeated 107 times at a single locus. Histones are indispensable for the formation of chromatin, a role they can only fulfill when all 5 types are co-regulated. To efficiently accomplish this regulatory task, the histone locus body (HLB), a nuclear body consisting of concentrated RNAs and proteins, forms around histone gene repeats early in development. How HLB factors initially identify histone genes is an important question for the field. Two GA repeats present in the histone3-histone4 promoter are necessary and sufficient to guide HLB components to the histone locus for HLB initiation. However, because histone genes are cell cycle regulated, certain components only concentrate in the HLB for a portion of the cell cycle. The components of the HLB therefore must frequently reidentify the histone locus, and the mechanism responsible for this maintenance is
unknown. To determine if the histone3-histone4 GA repeats are also required for maintenance of the HLB, we constructed a transgenic system in Drosophila allowing us to remove the repeats after HLB initiation. We have completed cloning of the transgene, which is currently being injected into Drosophila embryos. When we have confirmed transgenics, we will heat shock to remove the GA repeats and determine HLB formation through immunofluorescence microscopy.
PRESENTER (S): Camilla Kline Title: Thermal Stratification and Biogeochemical Dispersion in Warm Monomictic Reservoirs With and Without Induced Mixing Author(s): Camilla Kline, Oxford College of Emory University; Melissa Hage, PhD, Oxford College of Emory University Warm monomictic lakes undergo one period of thermal stratification each year, during which the water separates into three relatively unmixable layers of different temperatures - the uppermost epilimnion, metalimnion, and lowermost hypolimnion. Stratification alters the dispersion of various biogeochemicals throughout the water column. Solar-powered mixers have been used to induce mixing in near-surface waters to limit eutrophication from agricultural runoff. Data were collected from two warm monomictic reservoirs – one new and without mixers and the other old and with mixers – to examine potential effects of induced mixing on the depth of the thermocline and oxycline and the dispersion of biogeochemicals. High-resolution temperature data were collected at both reservoirs by a vertical array of sensors, allowing for the production of a heat map that shows water temperature at different depths over time. Water samples were collected from various depths from both reservoirs and analyzed for total nitrogen, nitrate, phosphate, and sulfate using a spectrophotometer. Other aquatic chemistry variables, such as pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), and oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), were measured at specific depths using a multiparameter water probe. We found that induced mixing does not seem to significantly affect the depth of the thermocline and the oxycline, which occur around 4-6 m in both reservoirs. Furthermore, induced mixing appears to concentrate phosphate in the hypolimnion, as opposed to its dispersion throughout the water column without induced mixing. Induced mixing also seems to allow for the presence of nitrate below the oxycline, which did not occur in the unmixed reservoir.
PRESENTER (S): Megan Korn Title: Acrylamide and Carbodiimide Derivatives for Chemical Profiling of the Epitranscriptome Author(s): Megan Korn, Steve Knutson, Dr. Colin Swenson, and Dr. Jennifer Heemstra, Emory University.
RNA undergoes extensive chemical modification after transcription, resulting in a range of biological effects. Inosine (I) and pseudouridine (PsU) are two of the most prevalent RNA modifications, directly altering mRNA coding sequences and splicing patterns. Additionally, I and PsU are extensive in non-coding RNA, playing key roles in cellular stress and immune response.
Detection, quantification, and mapping of these editing sites is vital to understanding their biological roles. While direct sequencing of Adenosine-to-Inosine editing is possible, current methods are limited in sensitivity due to the relative scarcity of I in the transcriptome. Conversely, PsU cannot be detected directly but can be labeled with carbodiimide derivatives to enable sequencing; however, these reagents are difficult and dangerous to synthesize. To address these limitations, we designed two synergistic reagents for improved characterization of I and PsU. Acrylamide electrophiles exhibit good reactivity with I, so we synthesized a derivative with a click handle, allowing for affinity capture and enrichment of edited transcripts. The acrylamide derivative displays excellent reactivity with inosine, but also showed off-target labeling with PsU as well. To combat this, we developed a new, facile synthesis of a carbodiimide derivative for selective labeling of PsU. Upon sequential treatment with our reagents, we can orthogonally target and label both RNA modifications with improved sensitivity and ease of detection. Both reagents are click-compatible and allow flexible attachment of different payloads to I and PsU, facilitating simultaneous enrichment and sequencing of both modifications as well as real-time fluorescent detection of I and/or PsU in vitro.
PRESENTER (S): Esther Lee Title: Population Dynamics and Lytic Phage Maintenance on Mucoid Escherichia coli Author(s): Esther Lee, Waqas Chaudry, PhD, Emory University; Zoe Weiss, Marcin Grabowicz, PhD, Emory University; Bruce Levin, PhD, Emory University
In the presence of bacteriophage (also referred to as phage), bacteria can develop a mucoid phenotype, which is characterized by snotty-looking colonies on agar. Here, we present evidence that the lytic phages T3, T4, T5, and T7 can be maintained at high densities in serially transferred cultures, without development of envelope resistance in the bacteria. This apparently stable maintenance of phage was observed in both phage-generated and genetically constructed mucoid E. coli. This maintenance of the phage with little effect on the bacterial density is not obtained with wild-type, nonmucoid E. coli. Based on our analysis of a mathematical model and computer simulations, we postulate that the stable, high density maintenance of phage with little effect on the density of the host population can be attributed to the high rate of reversion from the mucoid bacteria to sensitive non-mucoid, called “leaky resistance”. In accord with our hypothesis, there is a high rate of transition from mucoid resistant cells to non-mucoid sensitive cells, and mucoids have adsorption rate constants three orders of magnitude greater than their mucoid counterparts. The results of our experiments are consistent with this hypothesis. The rate of lysogen formation with the phage λvir on mucoid cells suggest that the rate of transition for mucoid to sensitive nonmucoid is substantial. Using fluorescently labeled bacteria that enable us to distinguish mucoids and sensitive non-mucoids infected with the phage T7, we can show that the population of T7 mucoids contains subpopulations of non-mucoid cells which are susceptible to phage infection.
PRESENTER (S): Selvaganesh Maduraiveeran Title: Testing a Size-Based Threshold Hypothesis for Transmission of the Human Blood Fluke Schistosoma mansoni to its Intermediate Snail Host, Biomphalaria glabrata Author(s): Selvaganesh Maduraiveeran; Kelsey Shaw, DVM, Emory University; David Civitello, PhD, Emory University
Schistosomiasis is a highly prevalent tropical disease caused by worms in the genus Schistosoma. Heavy infections in humans can cause fever, intestinal, liver, and urinary system damage. Infected humans excrete eggs into freshwater environments that hatch and infect snails. Infected snails then release cercariae, which swim through water and infect humans following dermal contact. We will test the hypothesis that snail infections follow a threshold response, defined by the probability of infection shifting from near zero to near one as exposure increases. Furthermore, the threshold point will increase with increasing body size of snails. We have based this hypothesis on the observation that snails combat parasites by encapsulating them with immune cells called hemocytes. Larger snails have more hemocytes and are often more difficult to infect than smaller snails. I hypothesize that a threshold will exist because infections succeed when hosts have too few hemocytes to successfully encapsulate invading parasites. I will test this by manipulating exposure dose and snail size to build transmission models with the help of my collaborators. Gaining a better understanding of the factors that influence schistosome transmission from humans to snails can uncover strategies to minimize both human and snail infections.
PRESENTER (S): Lucas Mavromatis Title: The Role of Locus Coeruleus-Derived Galanin in Regulating the Behavioral Effects of Chronic Mild Stress Author(s): Lucas Mavromatis, Brown University; Rachel P. Tillage, Emory University School of Medicine; David Weinshenker, PhD, Emory University School of Medicine
he neuropeptide galanin is widely expressed in the brain and body across species. The locus coeruleus (LC), a brainstem nucleus that serves as the primary source of norepinephrine in the brain, shows high galanin expression in both rodents and humans. Previous studies suggest that noradrenergic-specific galanin modulates responses to stress, and abnormalities in both the galaninergic and noradrenergic systems are widely associated with stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety. The recent generation of mice lacking galanin specifically in noradrenergic neurons (Gal cKO) set the stage for this study, which employed a chronic mild stress paradigm to investigate the role of LC-derived galanin and norepinephrine in regulating susceptibility to chronic unpredictable stress. Gal cKO mice, as well as dopamine βhydroxylase knockout mice that do not produce norepinephrine, were put through a three-week chronic mild stress paradigm along with respective littermate control mice. At the end of the threeweek paradigm, mice were tested in a series of behavioral paradigms; a sucrose splash test to quantify motivational behavior and anhedonia, an elevated zero-maze to measure anxiety-like versus exploratory behavior, a tail-suspension test to reveal active versus passive coping response
to a stressor, and a novelty suppressed feeding test to assess anxiety-like behavior against a backdrop of feeding motivation. The results of the aforementioned behavioral tests aim to elucidate the effects of norepinephrine and LC-derived galanin in behavioral resilience to chronic stress.
PRESENTER (S): Anna McDonough Title: Characterizing the Dose-Response of Melanotan-II Administration in the Prairie Vole Model Author(s): Anna McDonough, Charles Ford, Jamie LaPrairie, PhD, Larry Young, PhD, Emory University
Preliminary studies show that peripheral injections of melanotan-II (MTII) effectively activate oxytocin (OT)- positive neurons in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and prime the OT system to release more OT upon social exposure. Therefore, given the known role OT plays in facilitating pro-social behaviors, MTII is a plausible candidate to pursue for the development of pharmaceuticals to treat the social deficits of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Although MTII has been studied extensively for its ability to increase melanin production, libido, and suppress appetite, this capacity to potentiate OT release across the social brain has yet to be fully characterized. This project sought to develop a dose-response curve for the novel intra-cranial administration of MTII to ultimately find a dose that maximizes neuronal activation and minimizes negative behavioral side effects in the prairie vole model. Animals received doses of MTII ranging from 0.1 micromoles to 1 nanomole, or the vehicle, injected directly into their lateral ventricles via a surgically implanted cannula. The treated animals were recorded for 15 minutes after the initial acclimation period, and videos were later scored for behaviors, including scratching, stretching, grooming, spinning, and ambulating. As hypothesized, we found that decreasing the dose resulted in significantly lower rates of off-target behavioral effects (stretching, scratching, spinning, and grooming) and improved ambulation rates. Concurrent whole-brain c-FOS expression is being analyzed presently to determine the effects of MTII treatment on neuronal activity.
PRESENTER (S): Penny McElwee Title: Frustrated Infants’ Behavioral and Physiological Response to Maternal Affect: A Pilot Study Author(s): Penny McElwee, Stephanie Lewis, Meeka Maier, Dr. Sherryl Goodman, Emory University
Abstract not available.
PRESENTER (S): Stephanie Medina
Title: Elucidation of Apoptotic Mechanisms in Multiple Myeloma Author(s): Stephanie Medina, Chunjin Park, Lawrence Boise, PhD, Emory University
Multiple myeloma is the second most common hematological disease characterized by the overproduction of plasma cells in the bone marrow. Despite recent advances in the development of new therapies for multiple myeloma, patients tend to relapse after they are treated for a certain amount of time. Current treatments induce cell death via apoptosis. The intrinsic apoptotic pathway is driven by the balance of different pro-apoptotic BCL-2 family proteins such as BIM, BID, BAK and BAX with anti-apoptotic proteins like BCL-2, BCL-XL, and MCL-1. Based on previous research, it is known that BIM binding is important for apoptosis to occur in response to small molecule inhibitor drugs. Additionally, BAK binding is important for apoptosis in response to MCL-1 inhibitors. For this reason, it is important to continue our investigation on which members of the BCL-2 family are important for apoptosis in response to these chemotherapeutic agents. A method for examining requirements for apoptosis in myeloma cells is by knocking out certain proteins in myeloma cell lines and determining its effect on the cell's response to drug treatment. Potentially, this information could then be used for specific target therapies towards different patients and for the elucidation of mechanisms by which cells gain resistance to drugs.
PRESENTER (S): Deve Mehta Title: Perceptions of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Guidelines Among Black Men Who Have Sex with Men (BMSM) Author(s): Aaron Siegler, Ph.D., Rollins School of Public Health; Justin Smith, MS, MPH, Rollins School of Public Health
In 2014, Southern states accounted for 44 percent of all people living with an HIV diagnosis in the United States, and men who have sex with men (MSM) bear a disproportionate share. Black MSM are disproportionality impacted by HIV at a staggering rate of 54 percent of the total new cases. There is a need to examine and develop robust strategies to mitigate HIV transmission. HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective pill, if taken daily, can reduce the transmission of the virus by more than 90%. However, many obstacles prevent easy access. This research project seeks to understand attitudes towards the HIV epidemic and PrEP among Black men who have sex with men (MSM). Four focus groups were held, one each in Jackson, Mississippi and Boston Massachusetts, and two in Atlanta, Georgia. An interactive technique was used to initiate engaging discussions in the groups: an electronic polling system that allowed participants to respond to questions posed to the group anonymously. Themes of medical mistrust, stigma, and shame were found. Insights from this project can be used to develop future interventions and policies to support PrEP uptake among Black MSM.
PRESENTER (S): Arthur Menezes Title: Developing a New Bacterial Experimental Evolution Protocol in Liquid Media Author(s): Arthur Menezes ,McKenna Penley, Dr. Levi Morran, Emory University
In our lab, we study host parasite interactions to understand how different species can influence each other’s evolutionary trajectory. We work with Caenorhabditis elegans, a transparent nematode, as our model organism and Serratia marcescens as our bacterial parasite. Traditionally, we have conducted experimental evolution experiments on solid media plates where we can expose the bacteria to specific conditions and hosts. After hundreds of bacterial generations, we can examine how the bacteria has evolved under different selection regimes. One issue that we encounter with this experimental evolution design is that our hosts, C. elegans, have the ability to avoid the bacteria. In order to address this issue, we have developed a new experimental evolution protocol in liquid media that allows us to continuously expose our hosts to an homogenous bacterial environment. In the future, we plan to utilize this new experimental evolution protocol to assess how selection for antibiotic resistance and host virulence alters the rate or magnitude of S. marcescens virulence evolution.
PRESENTER (S): Leslie Mora Title: Exploring the Generalizability of Laboratory Assessments in Daily Life using Experience Sampling Author(s): Leslie Mora, Emory University; Jessica Cooper, PhD, Emory University; Michael Treadway, PhD, Emory University
The goal of the study is to explore whether or not in-lab tasks are predictive of motivation and pleasure experienced outside of the lab in daily life. In-lab behavioral tasks are widely used to assess behavioral sensitivity to reward, aversion to effort, and the neural mechanisms underlying these processes. To date, little is known about how performance in laboratory tasks generalizes to the pursuit of effortful activity or experience of reward in daily life. In the current study we examine the relationship between performance on behavioral (lab-based) tasks and motivation, effort, and reward in daily life using experience sampling methods (cell phone surveys). The ecological momentary assessment (EMA) surveys focus on the predicted effort and reward that will be experienced during self-selected activities as well as the effort and reward experienced for completed activities. In an on-going study, a total of 10 eligible participants (7 female, ages 2150) from the local Atlanta area have participated to date. Preliminary analysis suggests that behavioral effort aversion from in-lab tasks is associated with completion of activities in daily life with lower relative expected effort (as compared to activities that were considered but not completed), Spearman’s r=-.752, p=.012. These results support the idea that in-lab tasks are informative about motivation and effort in daily life. More data will be needed to confirm these effects.
PRESENTER (S): Howard Nicholson Title: The Effect of Shear Stress on Cathepsin Levels which Predisposes Children to Stroke Author(s): Howard Nicholson III, Hannah Song, PhD, Georgia Institute of Technology
Sickle cell anemia is a blood disorder that causes red blood cells to become sickle and stick to the endothelium of blood vessels. Many people with sickle cell disease (SCD) experience an accelerated vascular remodeling including elastic lamina degradation which predisposes children with SCD to strokes. Previously, scientists investigated how differences in vascular geometry affect hemodynamics. It is believed that the shear stress that SCD patients experience and the strokes experienced by children (between ages of 2 and 5) have a correlation. Past research confirmed that a type of protease called cathepsins are active in areas of high shear stress. Our project studies the shear stress’s effect on cathepsin levels to understand the biochemical pathway that predisposes children to strokes. We hypothesize that the atheroprone shear stress profile from the middle cerebral artery of a child with SCD would activate cathepsin expression in human aortic endothelial cells. To test this hypothesis, we cultured human aortic endothelial cells (HAEC) and human brain micro vessel endothelial cells. When the cells reached confluency, they were placed into a bioreactor to simulate ICA and MCA shear stress profiles. Then, they were lysed and the protein was quantified to load a cathepsin zymography and western blot. After quantification and analysis of the western blots and zymography, we determined that eNOS expression was increased in the ICA laminar shear stress profile and that Cathepsins L and K were more active. These findings confirm that increased cathepsin activity in endothelial cells correlates with higher angular velocity.
PRESENTER (S): Fernanda Nunes Title: Characterization of Natural Products from a Medicinal Plant That Inhibit the Growth of Antibiotic Resistant Acinetobacter Baumannii Author(s): Maria Fernanda Espinosa Nunes1, James Lyles2, Micah Dettweiler3, Cassandra Quave4 (1)Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, (2)Emory University, Atlanta, GA, (3) Emory Univeristy, Atlanta, GA
Acinetobacter baumannii is a pathogenic bacterium that has become a threat due to the spread of antibiotic resistant strains. From 1,400 extracts screened at 256 µg/mL, extract 1606, derived from a medicinal plant, was one of 24 extracts identified as inhibiting more than 80% of growth of A. baumannii. This extract, a complex composition of natural products, underwent bioassay-guided fractionation via liquid-liquid partitioning and by preparative high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to yield 20 fractions. After each iteration, the fractions produced were analyzed for growth inhibitory activity. The ethyl acetate partition, 1606C, was the most potent, inhibiting 50% of growth (IC50) at concentrations ranging from 32 to 128 µg/mL against a panel of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii strains. Active fractions of 1606C were characterized by
analytical HPLC to determine the complexity of each fraction, and mass spectrometry (MS) was used to determine the masses of fraction constituents. Compounds can be isolated from extract 1606 which inhibit the growth of antibiotic resistant A. baumannii and represent promising candidates for drug development.
PRESENTER (S): Jocelyn Ortiz Title: Development of a Gene Therapy for Unfolded Protein Regulation as a Treatment for AlphaSynucleinopathies Author(s): Jocelyn Ortiz, University of Michigan; Angel Santiago-Lopez, Georgia Institute of Technology; Dr. Claire-Anne Gutekunst, Emory University; Dr. Robert E. Gross, Emory University Abstract not available.
PRESENTER (S): Shreya Pabbaraju Title: Equality as a Means of Minimizing Violence Against Women (VAW) Author(s): Shreya Pabbaraju, Emory University; David R. Davis III, PhD, Emory University
One out of three women worldwide will be the victims of violence in their lifetime. Violence Against Women (VAW) can cause long-term psychological and physical damage to victims. Given the scope of this issue, it is important to understand the causes and potential methods to ameliorate violence. In this paper, I explore the ways in which inequality influences violence against women. Existing studies have used aggregated measures of inequality to test for an influence on VAW. In this study, I explore how the political, social, and economic dimensions of inequality affect the propensity for VAW. While the relationship between inequality and violence is complicated, general trends suggest that societies with less gender inequality tend to have lower reported rates of violence against women.
PRESENTER (S): Meghana Pasupula Title: Fabrication and Reusability of Flexible Hybrid Electrocardiogram Monitor Author(s): Meghana Pasupula, University of Illinois at Chicago Yun-Soung Kim, George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology Woon-Hong Yeo, PhD, Center for Flexible and Wearable Electronics Advanced Research, Institute for Materials, Neural Engineering Center, Georgia Institute of Technology
Currently available electrocardiogram (ECG) monitors are quite cumbersome in design, requiring the application of adhesives and/or conductive gels which can cause damage to the patient’s skin. The wireless flexible ECG monitor introduced here allows for real-time monitoring of electrocardiogram data with very minimal discomfort to the patient due to its flexible nature and compact design. It also avoids the use of harsh adhesives making it an ideal option for pediatric patients. This device has been tested for how long it could be worn continuously but not for repeated applications. In instances where the electrodes are still intact and the device is still functioning, with appropriate decontamination/sterilization protocols, the possibility of repeated applications of the flexible ECG monitor should be investigated. The device consists of a flexible circuit encased with elastomers and interconnects the circuit with thin Au/polyimide electrodes. This allows the device to adhere to the skin and deform naturally without dislodging the electronic components. The raw data is then transmitted to an Android app via Bluetooth. With repeated applications and regular examinations of the electrodes’ structural integrity and of the data measured, the results illustrate how the device might be reused in instances where it is still functional as well as which aspects may require further modification.
PRESENTER (S): Ananthu Pucha Title: Isolation and Characterization of Extracellular Vesicels Originating from Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Author(s): Krishna A. Pucha 1; Julia M. Fuller 1; Jay M. McKinney 1,2,3; Nick J. Willett 1,2,3 1 Research Service, VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA; 2 Department of Orthopedics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; 3 Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid bilayer-delimited particles released by cells thought to mainly be used in paracrine communication. EVs are categorized into many subtypes, two of which are exosomes and microvesicles (MVs). These subtypes vary in size, intracellular origin, and cargo and are currently being utilized to develop a wide range of novel therapies. Though many, if not all, cell types expel these vesicles into their environment, this study focuses on characterizing EV production from human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). The objective of this study is to optimize isolation of these two distinct populations from the secreted factors of cultured mesenchymal stem cells and characterize the content of each of the isolated samples. hMSCs were cultured in identical conditions and were then introduced to low, medium and high concentration of EV production stimulant. The supernatant was collected and EV samples were isolated through ultra-centrifugation. The two isolated populations were characterized through in vivo clearance, particle sizing via a Zetasizer, and flow cytometry. In vivo clearance showed differences in clearance rates between the MV and exosome populations in two of the three samples tested, suggesting successful separation of the MV and exosome populations. Sizing data also suggests the presence of two populations. Though results obtained are not definitive due to the low sample size of this pilot study, this data leads us to believe that two distinct populations
were successfully isolated; thus, further study of these EVs as a possible therapeutic for OA can be pursued.
PRESENTER (S): Renata Rivera Title: Synthesis of Promysalin Analog and Investigation of its Synergy with Known Antibiotics Author(s): Renata Rivera, Emory University; Savannah Post, Emory University; Andrew Mahoney, Emory University
There is an increasing demand for narrow-spectrum antibiotics, as broad-spectrum antibiotics target an extensive range of bacteria. Oftentimes, this includes beneficial bacteria that are imperative to the success of the human microbiome, as well as various biological pathways. While narrow-spectrum antibiotics certainly have a higher degree of selectivity, they rarely target specific species of pathogenic bacteria, focusing on wider subsets (such as gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria). Furthermore, an increase in the study and synthesis of antibiotics that focus on a single species of bacteria would serve to minimize the growing global threat of antibiotic resistance. Promysalin, a secondary metabolite of Pseudomonas putida, has been found to possess a remarkable ability to target a specific pathogenic bacterium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa), targeting the protein Succinate dehydrogenase (Sdh) in the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA). In this study, we synthesized two new analogs of promysalin and investigated the activity of each against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Additionally, studies investigating the synergy between our compounds and known antibiotics (including gentamicin, imipenem, and amikacin) are ongoing, specifically testing these against clinical isolates that are known to be resistant. These further studies will explore the potential of our compounds, in tandem with existing antibiotics, to overcome known resistance.
PRESENTER (S): Kassie Sarkar Title: Empowerment in Prison: the Artist Books of Students at Phillips State Prison Author(s): Kassie Sarkar, Emory University
This research project examines the roles of writing, editing, and creative expression in the works of students from a Phillips State Prison education program created by the non-profit Common Good Atlanta in Buford, GA. As the United States prison system is specifically engineered to discourage its prisoners from any sense of humanity or power, this research project analyzes the artist books of the prisoners to understand how an oppressed community can find empowerment through education and the arts. By dissecting both the writing and book-making processes of artist books from 2012-2015, this project investigates the individual experience of prisoners within the context of the Prison Industrial Complex to explore the duality of men who can at once live inside of a repressive regime and also work against it, sometimes unconsciously, because of the innate
power that comes with self-expression. This project not only challenges the notion that imprisoned men and women are powerless in their environment, but it also undermines the stereotype that society holds for those in prison. Instead of seeing prisoners as irredeemables, or burdens on the taxpaying public, this project regards them as humans first, and their experiences as a crucial component to any kind of understanding of the human condition. Though the Philips State Prison artist books were made by a select number of men over a four-year period, they serve to represent the ingenuity and humanity of a marginalized population that must not be ignored.
PRESENTER (S): Unekwu-Ojo Shaibu Title: Application of Personalized Diploid Reference Genomes in Variant Discovery and Calling Author(s): Unekwu-Ojo Shaibu, Lincoln University, and Zhaohui Qin,PhD, Emory University
The emerging next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, due to the rapid decline in sequencing costs and vast improvement in throughput and precision, have been instrumental in research areas such as human genetics and personalized medicine. A key application of NGS is to identify genetic variants and relate them to human diseases and phenotypes. How to improve variant calling is a fundamental research problem. An essential step in variant calling is mapping short sequencing reads back to the reference genome. Inaccurately mapped reads can affect the accuracy of variant calling. Since every individual carries millions of genetic variants, using the consensus (universal) reference genome in mapping will result in many mismatches which may lead to incorrect mapping. In this work, we develop a pipeline to incorporate individual level variants in the read mapping procedure. The basic idea is to iteratively incorporate variants identified to refine a personalized version of the reference genome and use that to improve read mapping and variant calling.
PRESENTER (S): Elana Shaw Title: Carolacton-Inspired Scaffold for CH Functionalization and Biological Investigation Author(s): Elana Shaw, Emory University Amber Scharnow, Emory University Taylor Hari, PhD, Emory University Ashley Diaz, Emory University William Wuest, PhD, Emory University
Carolacton is a natural product that selectively perturbs S. mutans biofilm, the leading cause of dental caries. Manipulations to the carolacton scaffold have led to the discovery of compounds with unique and improved activity against S. mutans biofilm. For this reason, we are interested in expanding the analog library. An analog bearing an alkyl sidechain was synthesized to probe the carolacton scaffold as a substrate for CH functionalization. We hope that CH functionalization will enable late-stage diversification of this auspicious natural product and aid in the discovery of biofilm specific therapeutics.
PRESENTER (S): Monique Sparkman Title: Mathemetical and Numerical Modeling of Blood Flow: A Computational Study of Left Ventricular Assisst Device Author(s): Marguerite Champion, Mines ParisTech Imran Shah, Georgia Institute of Technology Monique Sparkman, College of Charleston Lujia Zhu, University of California, Los Angeles
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in Western Countries for many years. In these pathologies, we may have several components interacting, ranging from genetic disorders to biological reactions to mechanical factors. To better understand the physiopathology of the circulation doctors, mathematicians, engineers, and other professionals resort to computational modeling. For what concerns the relevance of mechanical factors in the diseases, computational mechanics is a mature field of research that can support understanding and predicting the beginning and the evolution of a pathology or of a therapy. This project focuses on left ventricular assist device (LVAD). LVAD is a mechanical device, inserted in the aorta, which helps pump blood to the rest of the body. LVAD – originally introduced as a bridge therapy – is nowadays particularly advantageous for patients with end-stage heart failure for which heart transplant is not a viable option. The downside to LVAD is the limited information on the hemodynamic effects of the implant location and the long-term effects of the implant on hemodynamics. The purpose of this project is to study the effect LVADs have on hemodynamics with computational models. We present the basic equation for blood flow and the construction of a realistic aortic geometry pre and post LVAD. We also introduce a finite element solver for the simulation of the hemodynamics. With these tools, we compare different LVAD placements in terms of velocity, pressure, wall shear stress and vorticity for a better predictive understanding of the best surgical option.
PRESENTER (S): Jocelyn Stanfield Title: Sex Differences in the Association between Prenatal Second-hand Smoke Exposure and Infant Motor Development Author(s): Jocelyn Stanfield, Emory College of Arts and Sciences; Anne Dunlop, MD, MPH, Emory University School of Medicine; Dana Barr, PhD, DLS, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health; Elizabeth Corwin, PhD, RN, FAAN, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing; Patricia Brennan, PhD, Emory College of Arts and Sciences
Smoking during pregnancy can lead to developmental complications, including spontaneous abortions, reduced uterine blood flow, and decreased auditory processing in infants. These outcomes may differ based on the infant's sex. In utero, fetuses can be exposed to levels of nicotine that are up to 15% higher than the levels consumed by their mothers. Cotinine is a metabolite of nicotine and that has proven to be a reliable biomarker for prenatal smoke exposure. Findings report a negative association between maternal prenatal urine cotinine levels and infant motor
development at as early as 18 months of age. This study seeks to explore the sex differences in how prenatal cotinine levels are associated with motor development. We predicted mothers with higher cotinine levels to have infants with significant deficits in motor development. Specifically, we expected female infants with higher prenatal cotinine exposures to have more substantial reductions in motor development. This sample consisted of 72 African American mother-infant pairs living in Atlanta, Georgia. Motor development was measured using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition. Maternal serum cotinine samples were assayed at two points during pregnancy. Results showed that cotinine levels were not significantly correlated with motor development in boys or girls at 6 months of age. Further analysis indicated a significant, negative association between cotinine levels and receptive communication scores. This relationship was more prominent in male infants. We hope that this data will be utilized to create more robust prevention methods for populations susceptible to environmental toxicants.
PRESENTER (S): Trevor stevens Title: An Investigation of Anxiogenic Factors in 360° Video-based Virtual Environments Author(s): Trevor Stevens, California State University, Monterey Bay Andrew Sherrill, PhD, Emory University
Abstract not available.
PRESENTER (S): Brenda Belwood Tankeu Title: A Y-Maze Behavioral Paradigm to Investigate Association of a Novel Non-natural Sound with a Social Reward Author(s): Brenda Tankeu1, Cristina Besosa2, Dakshitha Bashettyhalli3, Alex Dunlap4, Robert C. Liu2* 1Bowie State University, Dept. of Natural Sciences, 2Emory University, Dept. of Biology 3Georgia Institute of Technology, Dept. of Biomedical Engineering, 4Georgia Institute of Technology, Dept. of Bioengineering.
Abstract not available.
PRESENTER (S): Leon Tare Title: Protein-induced DNA Looping in a Crowded Environment Author(s): Leon Tare, Yan Yan, PhD, Laura Finzi, PhD, David Dunlap, PhD, Emory University
DNA Looping exists as a regulatory mechanism of transcription in the cells of living beings. This process of loop formation is very tractable In-vitro and has been studied extensively using circularization assays, tethered particle microscopy (TPM) and even fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). Most of these studies, however, have been conducted with the DNA in an environment of saline buffers. These saline buffers do not accurately represent the situation in living cells, which, being protein filled, tend to be quite crowded. This experiment aims to use single molecule magnetic tweezing to study the effect of crowding at different concentrations on this process of loop formation. We expect the introduction of crowding agents to increase the probability of loop formation.
PRESENTER (S): Naomi Tesema Title: Cultural Considerations When Distinguishing the Reproductive and Sexual Health Needs of Black College Women: Demographic Homogeneity, Institutional Heterogeneity Author(s): Naomi Tesema, Rasheeta Chandler, Dr. Natalie Hernandez, Henry Ross, Dr. Sudeshna Paul, Emory University
In 2016, Black women accounted for 60% of newly diagnosed HIV infections among women in the U.S. Regarding educational institutions, past literature analyses have found that perceived HIV risk, religiosity, HIV testing, condom use, and substance use was as high or higher for Black HBCU students in comparison to students of other racial/ ethnic groups. The focus of this study is to consider how cultural and environmental influences affect black college women’s reproductive and sexual health behaviors. We compared Black, college-aged women at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and traditionally white ones to assess baseline differences in HIV-related behaviors between the two groups. A prospective, randomized two-group design was used. The multi-site pilot randomized control trial (RCT) was conducted with Black college females (N = 63) who attended either a research intensive Traditionally White Institution (TWI) or a teaching-focused HBCU in order to estimate effect size on behavioral theory-based outcomes. Questions around music and media resulted in significant results between the HBCU and TWI groups. HBCU students agreed that the lyrics of the songs that they listened to most frequently describe how they should engage in sex (21.4% vs 7.4%). These results suggest that, even when controlling for demographic factors, Black women attending different types of educational institutions show differences in concepts of sexuality and sex as explored through cultural mediums. Future preventive strategies should consider how sexual health related behaviors are choreographed both socioculturally and intersubjectively.
PRESENTER (S): Sharanya Thodupunoori Title: Progress Toward the Synthesis of Paramagnetic Luminophores: Mn(II) dipyrrinato complexes
Author(s): Margaret K. Gunter, Sharanya M. Thodupunoori, Austin B. Scharf, PhD, Oxford College of Emory University.
Progress toward the synthesis of novel Mn(II) dipyrrins has been made in order to evaluate their luminescence properties. The dipyrrins are derived from the known 2,9-bis[(2,4,6triphenyl)phenyl]dipyrrin scaffold, which has been shown to luminesce even when coordinated to paramagnetic transition metal ions. These targeted molecules are of interest because luminescent, paramagnetic molecules are potentially useful in bimodal imaging applications, where their visible or near-infrared emission and magnetic characteristics can be detected by complementary methods.
PRESENTER (S): Alison Thomas Title: The Effects of CDK and BET Inhibitors Palbociclib and JQ1 on Pancreatic Tumor and Stellate Cells Author(s): Dr. Brian Olson, Alison Thomas, Dr. Gregory Lesinski, Emory University
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive form of pancreatic cancer where immunotherapy treatment has proven to be ineffective. This immunotherapy resistance is due partly to the absence of a T cell-inflamed tumor microenvironment, where pancreatic and stromal cells function to collectively inhibit an effective immune response to tumors. Our preliminary data suggests the loss of the CDKN2A gene in pancreatic cells is associated with the absence of this T cell inflamed tumor microenvironment due to the inactivation of Rb, a tumor suppressor. CDK inhibitors are known to target the Rb pathway and repress transcription by allowing Rb to be present in its active form, whereas BET inhibitors are known to target pancreatic cells and other cells in the tumor microenvironment. BET inhibitors are known to suppress Rb-regulated gene expression, and it is known that both BET and CDK inhibition promote tumor apoptosis and antitumor responses in other cancers such as breast cancer. This study investigated the effects of CDK inhibitor palbociclib, the BET inhibitor JQ1, or both after 48 hours on CDKN2A knockout cells, KPC-luc wild type cells, and pancreatic stellate cells. Before treatment, CRISPR was utilized to generate an isogenic CDKN2A-deficient pancreatic cancer cell line. The combination treatments for all three cell types proved to be the most effective with a higher percentage of dead cells compared to the vehicle control. These findings suggest that combined CDK and BET inhibition may prove to be an effective therapeutic approach for CDKN2A-deficient pancreatic cancer.
PRESENTER (S): Ethan Todd Title: A Novel Use of Rotational Spectroscopy for Studying Characteristics of Desorbed Interstellar Ice Analogs
Author(s): Ethan Todd, Katarina M. Yocum, Susanna L. Widicus Weaver Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA Perry A. Gerakines, Stefanie N. Milam Astrochemistry Laboratory, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Current research of interstellar chemistry is focused on exploring the chemical and physical pathways that lead to the formation of complex organic molecules (i.e. molecules containing five atoms or more). Computational models have shown that gas phase reactions alone do not reproduce molecular abundances observed in the interstellar medium (ISM), and thus it is thought that many species form on ices present on carbonaceous/silicate dust grains before desorbing to the gas phase. Previous laboratory experiments of interstellar ice analogs have used mass spectrometry to study the gas phase species that desorb from ices, but this data is neither entirely structure specific (i.e. species of the same mass are indistinguishable) nor directly comparable to telescope data. Using millimeter/submillimeter spectroscopy, this experiment will detect products as they accumulate above the ice sample, yielding high quality spectral data that is directly comparable to observational data collected at millimeter/submillimeter wavelengths and provides further insight into desorption processes occurring in the ISM.
PRESENTER (S): InnekĂŠ L. Vargas Title: Beyond Bingo: The Importance of Meaningful Activity Engagement in Assisted Living Author(s): Alexis A. Bender, Phd, Emory University, Candace L. Kemp, Ph.D, Georgia State University, Molly M. Perkins, PhD, Emory Univerisity
Over one million older adults reside in assisted living (AL) communities in America. This figure is projected to double by the year 2030. Commonly, AL refers to housing communities where residents receive aid with activities of daily living including housekeeping, medicine management, and grooming. It is typical for AL residents to have cognitive and physical impairments requiring varying levels of care. Due in part to these impairments, it is vital to the health and well-being of residents to participate in structured activities. Activity engagement, apart from routine care, stimulates residents and is contributory to bolstering their sense of independence, a sense that is often lost in AL settings. I assert the data will show activity levels to be heavily influential on health outcomes. This study is a secondary analysis of ethnographic data gathered from 818 hours of observation, 78 focused on exercise activity, and semi-structured interviews with 25 participants. The community chosen for this study is large (>90 beds) and houses a majority female, African-American population, ranging in age from 60 to 103 (mean age 84). This project explores the impact activity participation has on aspects of palliative care including the social, spiritual, physical, and psychological characteristics. The resulting implications of this study will be part of a greater effort to create positive change in the structures and procedures of best practices within palliative care communities. Keywords: Assisted Living, Palliative Care, Activity
PRESENTER (S): Mark Weiss Title: Medicaid Expansion and Marketplace Premiums: Evidence from late-adopting states Author(s): Mark Weiss, undergraduate, Emory University; Ian M. McCarthy, Ph.D., Emory University
Medicaid expansion, as originally stipulated in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), required that states allow individuals with incomes up to 138% of the FPL to enroll in Medicaid. When the Supreme Court ruled the mandate unconstitutional, states retained the option to expand but could not be coerced by the Federal government to do so. The effect of Medicaid Expansion on Marketplace premiums is an important, yet understudied topic. Much of the current literature focuses on the impacts of expansion on general healthcare affordability for the primary stakeholders of the policy: low-income individuals who cannot afford private insurance. However, we hypothesize that there are some spillover effects that result from the interactions between the private and public markets for health insurance. As more low-income individuals leave the Marketplace in favor of cheaper Medicaid plans, the proportion of high-income, healthier individuals in the risk pool for private insurance increases (since income and health are negatively correlated). This results in lower risk for insurance companies in the Marketplace and, as a result, lower Marketplace premiums. We employ a fixed-effects regression model to compare silver plan premiums among counties in nonexpansion states and “late adopters” – those that expanded after 2014. We control for demographic factors (e.g. race, age, education attainment) and health-related factors (e.g. uninsured rate). We find that, on average, Medicaid expansion is associated with 12% lower premium rates, significant at the .001 level.
PRESENTER (S): Jeanette Wong Title: What is a scene? Author(s): Jeanette Wong; Annie Cheng; Daniel D. Dilks, PhD, Emory University
Abstract not available.
PRESENTER (S): Brady Wu Title: Self-Lubrication of Hydrogel at the Critical Velocity Author(s): Brady Wu, Suraj Pothineni, Dr. Nicholas L. Cuccia, Dr. Justin C. Burton, Emory University
Hydrogels are three-dimensional polymer matrices capable of absorbing a large amount of water. Because of their unique structure, hydrogels exhibit both solid and liquid behaviors and are widely used in agricultural and biomedical applications. In this study, we use a custom low-force pin-ondisc tribometer to investigate the frictional behavior of hydrogels (i.e., agarose and
Polyacrylamide) on acrylic surfaces. We have discovered that the friction coefficient of the hydrogel is not monotonic with increasing sliding velocity. While at low sliding velocities the friction coefficient is approximately linear and increasing, the friction coefficient drops abruptly at a critical velocity which depends on pore sizes of the hydrogels and the viscosity of the fluid. As sliding velocity further increases, the friction coefficient begins to increase again. This friction behavior can be divided into three distinct regimes: Darcy Regime, Time-Dependent Polymer Dynamics, and Hydrodynamic Regime. Previous research indicated that the Darcy Regime is pore size dependent, and the Hydrodynamic Regime is caused by a bulk layer forming between the hydrogel and the solid surface at high sliding velocity. The exact cause of the Time-Dependent Polymer Dynamics is still unknown. However, we hypothesize that there is a transient structural reconfiguration in the polymer network of the hydrogel that is causing this self-lubricating behavior. Using direct optical observations at the surface of the hydrogel during the Timedependent Polymer Dynamics Regime, we investigate the cause of this non-monotonic frictional behavior.
PRESENTER (S): Gabrielle Yamout Title: The Role of Gender in US Asylum Cases Author(s): Gabi Yamout, Dr. Jeff Staton, Emory University
Abstract not available.
PRESENTER (S): Edward Yin Title: Interspecific Mate Choice in Closely Related Betta Species Author(s): Edward Yin & Michael Martin, PhD, Oxford College of Emory University Classical theory suggests that mate choice is commonly held by the sex that contributes more resources to gametes and provisioning of young. As such, females are most often the choosy sex due to high costs of egg investment and at times, parental care. This, however, may not be the case in systems where males defend territories, actively court females, and care for the young. One such example is the sexually dimorphic Siamese fighting fish, whereby vibrant males exhibit intrasexual aggression and compete for dull females. Despite the presence of traditional sex roles, the energetic costs of mating rituals and subsequent parental care in males suggest possibilities for male mate choice. This study examines the extent of “choosiness� within two closely related species of betta fish, Betta splendens and B. imbellis. Given male investment in this mating system, we hypothesized that males of both species would have more pronounced mate preferences for conspecific mates than females. Dichotomous choice trials were used to test for mate choice. Interestingly, no significant preferences were found in either B. splendens or B. imbellis. Followup tests for male-male competition are being conducted to better grasp its significance in sexual
selection. More studies are required to fully understand the extent of sex roles in this type of mating system.
PRESENTER (S): Austin Yu Title: Bioprinting Extracellular Matrix Scaffolds as a Potential Treatment for Volumetric Muscle Loss Author(s): Austin Yu, Emory University School of Medicine, Emily Deveroux, BS, Emily University School of Medicine, Nick Willett, PhD Emily University School of Medicine
Decellularized Extracellular matrix (dECM) bioscaffolds, produced from decellularized muscle tissue, has widely been used in the preparation of hydrogels, which plays an important role in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. There are many types of dECM hydrogels due to variation on their starting tissue types and physical properties. However, while there has been success in early hydrogel printing and cell viability, there has been limited use of 3D printed dECM scaffolds as treatment for volumetric muscle loss (VML) injuries. Our work utilized hydrogels derived from rat skeletal muscle incorporated with mouse myoblast cells (C2C12). A working protocol for hydrogel from decellularized skeletal muscle extracellular matrix (dECM) and dECMderived bioink was first derived. Cell viability and differentiation was assessed using live/dead staining and qualitative analysis of myotubes will be assessed. Following in vitro cell viability analysis, we propose to move to a mouse model to test in vivo cell viability and myotube integration. We anticipate the results to produce viable myogenic differentiation and a potential treatment method for VML.
PRESENTER (S): Annabel Zhang Title: Exploring the Effect of Counter-cations on the Catalytic Reactivity of Two Copper(II) with Redox Active Ligands towards Aerobic Catechol Oxidation (not finalized yet) Author(s): Annabel Zhang; Elaine E. L.-N. Liu; John Bacsa, Ph.D.; and Cora E. MacBeth, Ph.D., Emory University
Copper complexes have been previously reported for the oxidation of alcohols. Recently in the MacBeth lab, a copper dimeric complex ([Cu2(LiPr)2]2-, LiPr=bis(2-isobutyrylamidophenyl) amine) supported by redox-active ligand scaffolds was synthesized and demonstrated to catalytically oxidize catechol to quinone. The preliminary results suggest that the counter-cations affect the catalytic activity of this copper complex significantly. In order to investigate the effect of counter-cations on the reactivity, in this work, the copper(II) dimeric complexes with K+ and (PPh4) + as respective counter-cations have been synthesized and characterized. Single crystal structures of the two complexes showed that (PPh4)2[Cu2(LiPr)2] had a center of symmetry with shorter Cu-Cu distance; while the structure of K2[Cu2(LiPr)2] possessed no center of symmetry, and the potassium counter-cations were also bonded to the ligands, influencing bong angles. The
catalytic reactivity of these two complexes with different counter-cations indicated that K2[Cu2(LiPr)2] showed higher turnover numbers and better yields of the quinone from aerobic oxidation of 3,5-di(tertbutyl)catechol. UV-visible study of the reactions using these two catalysts indicated that the reaction mechanisms were different, in which a stoichiometric amount of catechol was oxidized to quinone by K2[Cu2(LiPr)2] prior to O2 addition, while no quinone formation was observed using (PPh4)2[Cu2(LiPr)2] as catalyst prior to O2 addition. Additionally, redox potentials of the two complexes gained from cyclic voltammetry were compared, which could explain the better catalytic reactivity of K2[Cu2(LiPr)2].
Oral Presentation Abstracts PRESENTER (S): Michael Chen Title: Modulating ERK 1/2 Signaling in Microglia to Elucidate its Role in Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease Author(s): Michael Chen, Emory University; Tianwen Gao, Emory University, Central South University; Supriya Ramesha, MD, Emory University; Laura Weinstock, Georgia Institute of Technology; Hailian Xiao, Emory University; Levi Wood, PhD, Georgia Institute of Technology; Srikant Rangaraju, MD, Emory University Microglia play a complex role in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), adopting distinct disease-associated microglia (DAM) profiles. DAM are a heterogeneous population of cells, consisting of neurotoxic pro-inflammatory and neuroprotective anti-inflammatory subgroups. Immunological mechanisms are strongly implicated in AD pathology, and the extracellular signaling-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) cascade has been shown to regulate the production of inflammatory cytokines in activated microglia, suggesting a pro-inflammatory role for ERK in microglia in AD. Indeed, Luminex cytokine analysis previously performed by our group and collaborators demonstrated that phosphorylation of ERK 1/2 is significantly greater in microglia from mice with AD pathology than those from wild type mice, leading us to investigate the potential of selectively inhibiting ERK 1/2 in microglia to minimize pro-inflammatory DAM and maximize anti-inflammatory DAM in AD. Microglia from mouse pups were treated with an activating stimulus, interferon-gamma (IFN-g), and a selective inhibitor of ERK 1/2. Preliminary quantitative PCR showed that inhibiting ERK in microglia decreases expression of two known pro-inflammatory DAM genes while upregulating two anti-inflammatory DAM genes. However, NanoString transcriptomic profiling demonstrated that ERK appears to positively regulate both pro-inflammatory and anti-
inflammatory DAM genes. Inhibition of ERK, notably, reversed the pro-inflammatory responses induced by IFN-g. Flow cytometric analysis of microglial phagocytosis revealed a reduction in the phagocytosis of amyloid-beta 42 when ERK was inhibited. Ultimately, this suggests that ERK signaling is heavily involved in neuroinflammation, regulating expression of DAM genes and phagocytosis in microglia, but its specific role is more complex than anticipated.
PRESENTER (S): Haobin Chen Title: Caregiver Stress and Burden among Hispanic Elderly with Stroke: An Investigation of HEPESE Dataset Author(s): Haobin Chen, Shilpa Krishnan, PT, PhD, Emory University
Hispanic elderly have higher prevalence of stroke and other chronic diseases that could result in impaired motor and sensory function. Also, Hispanic caregivers reported demanding caregiving duties compared to other ethnic groups. The goal of our study is to fill the literature gap on the association between sociodemographic factors, history of stroke, multicomorbidity, and caregiver stress and burden. Data was included from 1078 Hispanic elderly and 925 caregivers in the Wave7 Hispanic Established Populations for the Epidemiological Study of the Elderly (HEPESE) Respondent and Informant dataset. Caregiver stress and burden was identified by matching Bakas Caregiving Outcomes Scale (BCOS) to comparable items from the HEPESE questionnaire. Descriptive analyses were conducted on sociodemographic factors and chronic conditions of Hispanic elderly and caregivers. The data contains 867 dyads after excluding Hispanic elderly without caregiver or with incomplete data on history of stroke. The average age of Hispanic elderly and caregivers were 86 and 56, respectively. 66% of Hispanic elderly and 75% of caregivers were females. Also, 41% Hispanic elderly and 3% caregivers have multicomorbidity (more than two chronic conditions). 12 out of 15 BCOS questions were matched with comparable HEPESE items to account for caregiver stress and burden. Three BCOS questions were dropped due to repetitive matching with other BCOS questions or failing to match any HEPESE items. A cut-off score will be developed to dichotomize BCOS score as binary outcome. Multivariate model will be developed to investigate the association between history of stroke of Hispanic elderly and caregiver stress and burden.
PRESENTER (S): Gabe Eisen Title: Anarchist Economics in Atlanta (2000-2018) Author(s): Gabe Eisen, Emory University
My SURE research is the first phase of a larger interdisciplinary project on the history of anarchist economics in Atlanta (2000-2018). Anarchists tend to be critics of capitalist political-economy, envisioning more communal and less hierarchical arrangements for the production, distribution,
and consumption of material goods. Over the last twenty years in Atlanta, anarchists have expressed their economic philosophies in a variety of tangible ways, at times participating in revolutionary activity intended to achieve macro-level changes, while at other times working on a smaller scale to build alternative economic arrangements within and despite of a broader capitalist structures. In this initial stage of research I conducted a first round of interviews with selfidentified anarchists, looked through archival material, including newspapers, posters, and zines, and read through primary and secondary literature on anarchist economic history and theory. As I have begun to flesh out a historical narrative, I have reached three preliminary hypotheses. Firstly, the majority of Atlanta anarchist activity has not been exclusively anti-capitalist/economic in focus. Rather, economic analysis and practice tends to be found intertwined with politics of antiracism, prison abolition, gender and reproductive autonomy, border abolition, and other specific issues. Secondly, where Atlanta anarchists do engage more explicitly with economics, their efforts tend to focus on communizing internal anarchist networks over participating in outward revolutionary action. Lastly, given these first two hypotheses, contemporary Atlanta anarchism deviates considerably from the economic-centric vision of classic anarchist thinkers, suggesting that anarchist economics have evolved significantly in post-industrial society, Atlanta being no exception.
PRESENTER (S): Lauren Hunady Title: Breaking Out of Gender: Transgender Identity, American Law, and Prison Policy Under Vulnerability Theory Author(s): Lauren Hunady, Undergraduate, Emory University
Under current prison conditions, transgender inmates experience fewer opportunities to obtain resources for “resilience,” those assets that can help lessen the impacts of misfortune. With the guidance of vulnerability theory, an emerging critical paradigm being created by Professor Martha Fineman and scholars connected with the Emory School of Law, this project argues that prisons should be understood as holding certain positive obligations to respond appropriately for the wellbeing of all inmates. This project also explores the capacity of the law itself to handle questions of flexible gender, and analyzes how a reliance on biologically binary definitions of gender may serve to promote the invisibility of transpeople in the eyes of the law. Medically pathologized and without legal protections under America’s ‘formal equality’ model, transpeople are funneled into prisons where they continue to suffer from an exacerbated gender binary within an already violent carceral system. All people, and transpeople in particular, deserve support from their governing bodies. As a reflection of American law, the prison displays the institutional and legal shortcomings of American treatment of gender diversity. Although political gains for recognition of gender diversity have slowly come to fruition, the American carceral and legal systems rely on outdated modes of gender classification that pathologize and criminalize gender diversity. Vulnerability theory provides the backdrop for which we may begin to critique reliance on current legal subjectivity and promote governmental involvement that furthers the wellbeing of the American people as a whole.
PRESENTER (S): Stephanie Jiang Title: Evaluating the Relationship Between Reproductive Cost and Biological Aging Author(s): Stephanie M. Jiang, Emory University; Alicia K. Smith, PhD, Emory University The life history theory of evolution states that one’s restricted energy budget is allocated towards fecundity or somatic maintenance. Currently, studies evaluate proximate mechanisms of this theory, such as high fecundity increasing inflammation or susceptibility to diseases. Studies suggest that, in populations without restricted energy (i.e. food), there is no significant relationship between oxidative stress and gravidity. The purpose of this study is to investigate biological aging based on reproductive cost, using BMI as an energy indicator. We hypothesize that, in populations with limited resources, increase in gravidity associates with early aging. We operationalized fecundity as number of pregnancies and divided patients into gravidity categories (G0, G1-2, G34, and G5+). ANOVA and linear regression analyses were performed on physical and biological measurements. We focused on high blood pressure and diabetes diagnosis as indicators of agerelated health risk. To assess aging in women that were no longer reproductively active, health information was leveraged from 393 patients from the EmPOWR (Emory Prospective Opportunity for Women’s health Research) registry (BMI=29.9±7.7). We examined biological measures by leveraging data from 307 reproductive-aged, pregnant women from the Emory AAMP (African American Microbiome in Pregnancy) cohort (BMI=28.5±7.9). Though higher BMI correlates with diabetes in both cohorts (0.0068<p<0.037), we identified no significant relationship between gravidity and high blood pressure or diabetes. Though CRP, an indicator of inflammation, associated with age in AAMP (p=0.0004), it did not associate with gravidity(p=0.122). Similarly, transcriptomic age acceleration, which most accurately reflects inflammatory aspects of aging, did not associate with gravidity. Our hypothesis was not supported, but results coincide with earlier studies performed on populations with larger energy budgets.
PRESENTER (S): Elvis Kahoro Title: Search Based Indicators of Urban Air Pollution Author(s): Elvis Kahoro Chen Lin Payam Karisani Donghai Liang, PhD Jeremy Sarnat, PhD Howard Chen, PhD Eugene Agichtein, PhD, Emory University
Abstract not available.
PRESENTER (S): James Kim Title: Machine Learning to Agnostically Rank Associative Factors in Cardiovascular Disease
Author(s): James J Kim, Undergraduate, University of Missouri-Columbia; Breanna Lee, PhD Student, Emory University/Georgia Institute of Technology; Darius Leftwich, Undergraduate, University of Maryland-Baltimore County; Michael Davis, PhD, Emory University/Georgia Institute of Technology; Cassie S. Mitchell, PhD, Emory University/Georgia Institute of Technology
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has consistently been a primary cause of death. The most common type of CVD in the US is coronary artery disease, which often leads to a myocardial infarction. Depending on the reperfusion timing, the cardiomyocytes undergo ventricular remodeling, encompassing angiogenesis and fibrosis. The resultant scar tissue reduces ejection fraction and increases risk of heart failure. The objective of this study is to identify and rank associative factors related to angiogenesis, fibrosis, and ejection fraction using an innovative literature mining approach, SemNet. The SemNet software uses an agnostic, machine-learning approach to mine the PubMed database of over 29 million articles to find and rank factors related to the specified target nodes (angiogenesis, fibrosis, and ejection fraction). The types of factors examined include amino acids, peptides, or proteins, genes or genomes, and diseases or syndromes. An unsupervised learning algorithm for rank aggregation (ULARA) within SemNet ranks the importance of identified associations. SemNet identifies well-known factors as well as less intuitive factors for assessment in future pre-clinical experiments. Examples of highly ranked factors include VEGFA, NOS3, STAT3, Insulin-Like Growth Factor I, and CAMP. Insulin-Like Growth Factor is associated with increased angiogenesis and ejection fraction and decreased fibrosis. The trio of functionally beneficial associations makes Insulin-Like Growth Factor I a recommended thrust for additional CVD research. In conclusion, SemNet is a promising tool to improve cardiovascular therapies by enabling agnostic, comprehensive literature-mining of multi-scalar factors of clinical significance.
PRESENTER (S): Austin Lai Title: Uncovering a New Function for Cdh1-APC as a Molecular Switch for Neuronal Protein Synthesis and Stress Granule Assembly Author(s): Austin Lai, Arielle Valdez, Gary Bassell; Emory School of Medicine, Department of Cell Biology
In a neuron, precise regulation of protein synthesis and degradation is crucial for both basic homeostasis and remodeling of synapses in response to stimulation. Perturbations of this homeostasis can lead to disease, as exemplified by dysregulated protein synthesis characteristic of many neurodevelopmental disorders, including Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). FXS is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability and is caused by the loss of one singular protein, the Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP). A translational repressor for a significant portion of total postsynaptic mRNA, FMRP is crucial to regulating protein synthesis and driving processes underlying learning and memory. The loss of FMRP leads to dysregulated protein synthesis in the postsynaptic compartment. While much attention has been focused on how FMRP
regulates translation, much less is known about how the expression of FMRP itself is regulated. Here, we focus on the ubiquitination of FMRP—in which ubiquitin is conjugated to FMRP to be recognized and degraded by the proteasome. Recently, it was shown that the E3 ligase Cdh1-APC ubiquitinates FMRP. We confirm this result and report a surprising finding that Cdh1-APC regulates protein synthesis. We further show that Cdh1-APC regulates the formation of stress granules (SGs), which are stress-induced membrane-less organelles that are characterized to stall translation. Thus, Cdh1-APC may regulate translation by antagonizing stress granule dynamics. Our findings clarify the function of Cdh1-APC as a potential therapeutic target for neurodevelopmental disorders with dysregulated protein homeostasis. Our work also suggests broader implications of stress granule dynamics for neurodevelopmental disorders.
PRESENTER (S): Sophia Minnillo Title: Motivation and Achievement in the Academic Setting: An Investigation of French Oral Proficiency Outcomes Author(s): Sophia Minnillo & Yun Kim, PhD, Emory University
While few contest the role of motivation in the language learning process, previous scholarship on the complex relationship between motivation and language learning achievement has yielded conflicting findings (Masgoret & Gardner 2003, Vandergrift 2005). The present study expanded investigation of the motivation-achievement relationship to oral proficiency achievement in a university-level academic setting. Anglophone students of French as a foreign language in intermediate and advanced university courses were interviewed. In correspondence with the Social-Psychological Theory of motivation, attitudes and motivation towards the target language were measured using the Attitude/Motivation Test Battery (AMTB; Gardner 1985). Oral proficiency was assessed via an elicited narration task, and proficiency scores were calculated using computerized language analysis (CLAN) of production in terms of measures of complexity, accuracy, and fluency (CAF; Skehan 1998, MacWhinney 2000). Correlational analysis of AMTB and oral proficiency scores indicated that global measures of attitude and motivation demonstrate significant, moderate associations with oral proficiency achievement. However, only half of the individual measures of attitude and motivation correlated significantly with oral proficiency scores, among which anxiety and instrumental orientation were the strongest predictors of oral proficiency achievement. Findings are discussed in terms of the pedagogical implications for university foreign language programs.
PRESENTER (S): Chloe Nathan Title: The Stages of Alienation: Bertolt Brecht's Play Mother Courage and Her Children in the Global Cold War Author(s): Chloe Nathan, Emory University
This project explores how playwright Bertolt Brecht’s play Mother Courage and Her Children changed and adapted throughout the Cold War. Brecht’s signature technique, the Alienation Effect, or Verfremdungseffekt, creates a distance between the characters and the audience, which, according to Brecht’s theory, is intended to motivate the viewers toward political action rather than paralyze them with fatalism. Through this lens, this project examines how Mother Courage interacted with the cultural and social spheres of Brecht’s native Germany immediately following the Second World War, especially regarding the rapidly changing nature of a divided nation. The path is then traced from this starting point until the 1980s, where the experimental and international performances of Mother Courage are analyzed as a product of time and place. Through reviewing and analyzing critical reviews, Brecht’s own work and theory, and secondary literature, I hope to demonstrate the unique relationship between Brecht’s Alienation Effect and the adaptation of his work to a changing political climate.
PRESENTER (S): Sidney Simmons Title: Exercising Black Feminism and Action Through Sports Participation Author(s): Sidney Simmons, Pellom McDaniels, Emory University
American history will always be intertwined with the narrative of black history. Yet the latter struggles to be heard and understood on a national level. The story of the black citizen has evolved seamlessly into the progression of athletics, creating a stream of black leaders in the midst of a racially heated country. From the 1920s and beyond the black athlete will rise to a false sense of social power systematically masked with celebrity, money, and status. All of which is not far from the concepts white society marketed to dehumanize, manipulate and murder the black race. This research introduces a new narrative about the contributions made by black women in sports, that have benefited not only the black race but for women as a collective. Alice Coachmen, Wilma Rudolph, and Wyomia Tyus specifically have earned monumental achievements in track and field. The objective of this research is to explore the relationship between black women and American Sports. Racial tensions and gender norms are variables that impact this relationship. Ultimately, the aim is to construct a theory that proves the next Black Leader will be an athlete and a black woman because of the complex ways in which their relationship directly challenges a white America.
PRESENTER (S): Aria Springfield Title: The "Lost Cause" Narrative and its perpetuation through Charleston, South Carolinas Historical Tourism Author(s): Aria Springfield, Emory University
The Antebellum period has been one of the most defining periods of southern history. It marks the beginning of economic prosperity through the cultivation of cotton and its domestic and global popularity. The Antebellum period also gives way to new forms of heritage, honor, and memory through the lens of the southern man . After the defeat of the Confederacy by the Union army, ideologies of the South exacerbated into forming a distorted history of the confederate cause, or most specifically, the “lost cause”. Shortly after the civil war, the lost cause acted as reconciliation, and became the blueprint for commemorating confederate veterans and the deceased. Specifically in Charleston, South Carolina, it was based under the notion that fighting under the confederate cause, and the right to continue to uphold slavery was honorable, and showed valor. This reconciliation gave way to the construction of monuments commemorating prominent confederate figures and symbols. Heritage,honor,and memory perform together when creating narratives for spaces in public history, such as plantation home tours,museums,heritage sites,and historical markers. Heritage, honor, and memory constructed under the fallacy of the lost cause narrative has engrained itself in public historical spaces in Charleston, leaving out room for conversation regarding slavery and African-American influences within Charlestons most popular historical sites. Using 19th century newspaper articles of “lost cause” supporters and confederate sympathizers, national register of historical sites documents, and secondary sources detailing memory, public history, and how they both intersect to create a narrative used within Charleston's most popular tourist sites.
PRESENTER (S): Amari Sutton Title: A New World Made Tangible: Constructing the Black Queer Space of the Ballroom Author(s): Amari Sutton, Emory University
The purpose of this project is to examine how actors within the Ballroom Scene - a historically Black Queer and Trans* space - create and maintain a structured space for members of the Black Queer community, especially through performance. The modern Ballroom Scene is speculated to have began after an iconic speech from the highly-revered Crystal Labeija at the Miss All-America Camp Beauty Pageant, where she chastised the gay community for upholding discriminatory practices against black participants. Therefore, this research project aims to investigate Ballroom spaces (Balls) as sites organically constructed for unique community-building among Black Queer and Trans individuals. However, this project also investigates how those within these spaces create and inhabit -- permanently and temporarily -- identities that complicate the current social terrain of normative society along the lines of class, gender, desirability and beauty, and the politics of respectability. In order to capture these dynamics, I will perform content analysis on YouTube videos of various Atlanta Ballroom spaces uploaded to the channel, “Ballroom Throwbacks Television.” Additionally, this research period has been utilized to parse through the seemingly disjointed relationship between various Queer Theories and Sociological methods and ideologies, allowing for sufficient theory to arise from both disciplines. The implications of this research are particularly important within the field of sociology, for this interdisciplinary study attempts to conceptualize Black Queer bodies as proactive agents in their own identity and community formation, rather than simply situated at the margins of the sociological field and broader society.
PRESENTER (S): Kaylah Towns Title: Removing Jurisdictional Barriers to Economic Mobility in Metro Atlanta Author(s): Kaylah Towns Michael J. Rich, PhD, Emory University
Metro Atlanta is one of the regions that have formidable barriers to economic mobility, many of which can be connected to issues of race, equity and inclusion. The implication of these barriers is delaying low-income individuals and minorities for advancement in the workforce and achieving equitable opportunities. With a population of nearly four million, the Metro Atlanta core counties of Dekalb, Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnet, Clayton, Rockdale and Douglas lags in pathways to produce economic opportunities in local workforces and housing. According to recent studies, low income families in Metro Atlanta are not benefiting from the economic growth. For example, low-income children who grew up in Atlanta had the lowest median income at age 35 among the nation’s 25 largest metropolitan areas even though Atlanta had the fourth highest rate of job growth between 1990 and 2010 (Hendren n.d.). The aim of this project is to increase economic mobility in the greater Atlanta area, starting with the region’s workforce development systems. In collaboration with Atlanta Career Rise, an initiative of the United Way of Greater Atlanta and serval other key funders, and in partnership with the five Metro Atlanta Workforce Development Boards, which oversee the allocation of federal job training funds, the objectives for this project are threefold. The aspect of the project we will be working on is objective 1, which is to develop regional data analysis, planning, and metrics as part of the regional economic strategy. We will track application, enrollment, completion of training, placement, and job retention.
PRESENTER (S): Mingning Zhu Title: A Micellization Model of Long Chain Carboxylate Surfactants with Alkali and Organic Cations Author(s): Mingning Zhu, Undergraduate, Emory University Xiaokun Zhang, PhD, Emory University
Surfactants have a wide range of applications in daily life, such as detergents. They are usually amphiphilic organic compounds, which will form aggregates such as micelles in the bulk aqueous phase. Multiple research has been conducted on inducing micelle growth in ionic surfactant systems by adding counterions, and this strategy has been exploited in commercial applications. As micelles are polydisperse and not crystalline, traditional experimental techniques hardly give precise answers to the properties of micelle aggregation. Our group built a thermodynamic model (PEACH) to predict the micellization behavior of ionic surfactants with different counterions added based on MD simulation of small systems. As the fitted thermodynamic data of clusters are
sensitive to their definitions, this study refined the PEACH model by exploring more accurate definitions of long-chain carboxylate clusters with both alkali and organic cations. We used statistics from a set of small systems as inputs, and equilibrium constants of octanoate micellization were generated through a global fitting procedure. The resulting free energy surfaces were used to predict critical micelle concentration (cmc), micelle size, and the degree of counterion binding in large systems. Our results showed that the fitted cmc values of octanoate clusters and the degree of counterion binding of K+, Na+, and TMA are all consistent with experimental data. The generated free energy profiles can also be rationalized by a phenomenological four-parameter model, with uncertainties discussed. From here, we expect to develop PEACH further to fit the enthalpy change and heat capacity of micellization of ionic surfactants.